North Valley Magazine - Aug/Sept 2021 by Times Media Group

AUGUST 2021/SEPTEMBER 2021 · $3.99

Beauty

Therapists Lumen + Bevel makes injectables comfortable

AROUND the PEN

Nonprofit sanctuary recruits volunteers to help pigs and piglets

The Buzz Eatery & Treats

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CONTENTS

On Pins and Needles Lumen + Bevel Aesthetics makes injectables comfortable

‘You Can Have It All’

FRESH 6 HR Pro to Health Care Leader Deborah Hillman Toll vows to help vulnerable people

8 Around the Pen Nonprofit sanctuary recruiting volunteers to help pigs and piglets

10 A Touch of Class The Langham Huntington is Pasadena’s ‘ jewel’

14 Gem Floral and Rentals Mariam Chekmeyan’s dream is blossoming

FEATURES

Scottsdale mother empowers women as leading expert in innovative dentistry

DINE

24 Servicing the Community Prestige Cleaners puts its neighbors and staff first

26 Weathering the Storm Avery Lane sees growth despite pandemic, hopeful for future

28 Giving People Hope

32 Buzzworthy Tim Ummel shares his love of Arizona with Kierland eatery

34 Pour the Paso, Please! Exploring the best bottles from the emerging wine region

Dr. Laura Brockel amplifies her patients’ lives

HOME 28 Trimble’s Tales What really happened to Curly Bill Brocius

29 Best-Kept Secret Toyota’s Supra star is reborn

22 Rediscovering Herself Kaylavon Middleton emerges as a top insurance broker

ON THE COVER: Morgan Renfro and Marissa Abdo (Photo by Michael Franco)

AUGUST 2021/SEPTEMBER 2021 · $3.99

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Beauty

Therapists Lumen + Bevel makes injectables comfortable

AROUND the PEN

Nonprofit sanctuary recruits volunteers to help pigs and piglets

The Buzz Eatery & Treats

SERVING THESE COMMUNITIES AND MORE: GRAYHAWK • DESERT HIGHLANDS • DC RANCH • SILVERLEAF • ESTANCIA • TROON NORTH DESERT MOUNTAIN • LEGEND TRAIL • THE BOULDERS • WHISPER ROCK

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CIRCULATION

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FRESH • PHILANTHROPY

HR Pro to Health Care

Leader

Deborah Hillman Toll vows to help vulnerable people By Alison Bailin Batz

fter graduating from Eastern Illinois University in 1999, Deborah Hillman Toll moved to the Valley to begin what would become a legacy of leadership and giving back. Initially, she worked with executives to build and execute human resources strategies. A significant project with a local chief executive officer early in her career proved to be a pivotal moment on Toll’s professional path. “Serving as a trusted confidant during the project and working hard to achieve the strategic objectives led to being asked to move from human resources into a business role in the company, ultimately aligning my profession with my passion for serving my community,” says Toll, who continued that path for 15 years.

Deborah Hillman Toll at home in North Scottsdale with her family. (Photo courtesy of Images by Kay)

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Deborah Hillman Toll is a dedicated community leader. (Photo courtesy of Mercy Care)

Today, as chief administrative officer at Mercy Care, Toll leads a team of individuals supporting its community reinvestment activities, community relations, strategic planning, marketing communications and the project management office. “I am passionate about improving the health and wellness of the most vulnerable people in our community,” Toll says. “At Mercy Care, which provides access to physical and behavioral health care services for Medicaid-eligible families, children, seniors, and individuals with developmental disabilities, I am able to do just that.” Among those Toll and Mercy Care serves are members who are eligible for Medicare and Medicaid (AHCCCS). “We do this through our dual-eligible special needs plan called Mercy Care Advantage,” Toll says. She also serves as plan administrator for its contract with the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Within the community, notably she is a member of Dignity Health’s Community Benefit and Health Equity Committee and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) Health Innovation Committee. A married mother of two, Toll joined the Arizona March of Dimes executive board in 2017 and became board chair in

FRESH • PHILANTHROPY Deborah Hillman Toll volunteers with her team. (Photo courtesy of Mercy Care)

January. March of Dimes is a leader in the ﬁght for the health of all moms and their babies. “I joined the board to help improve maternal and child health outcomes in Arizona and to support women through pregnancy, especially when there are complications and loss,” Toll says. “I am honored to work alongside moms, families, advocates and Arizona business leaders to support the health of moms and babies.” This year, Toll is eager to begin work on a collaboration with the March of Dimes, funded by a $35,000 grant from Mercy Care, focused on supportive pregnancy care (SPC). SPC is an evidence-based, group prenatal care model that brings pregnant individuals together for prenatal care with their obstetric providers. SPC may be delivered in person or via telehealth. Reports show that group prenatal care can reduce pre-term births by over 33% for participants of all races and ethnicities and more than 41% for Black participants. Ultimately, these improved health outcomes have the potential to save millions of dollars in U.S. health care costs by reducing pre-term birth rates and NICU admissions. “The program addresses medical factors and social drivers of health in a ﬂexible and culturally relevant manner,” Toll says. “During group sessions, participants take and record their own vital signs; receive a private physical assessment from their provider; support each other; and gain knowledge and skills related to pregnancy, birth, postpartum and infant care.” March of Dimes Arizona will host Heroes in Action (formerly March of Dimes Arizona Nurse of the Year Awards) on September 14 at Chateau Luxe. On November 14, March of Dimes and Talking Stick Resort will host “Signature Chefs,” a fundraising event that will feature culinary creations from Arizona chefs. On top of this partnership and volunteer work, Mercy Care has an impressive community reinvestment program and supports more than 125 community events each year, providing thousands of employee volunteer hours across Arizona as well, including many from Toll. “I am also proud of the work our team at Mercy Care is doing to support addiction recovery, housing, school-based services, food insecurity and pandemic support,” Toll says. Its community reinvestments over the last three years are close to $6 million. “Mercy Care brings an unwavering commitment to improving

the lives of the members and families we serve by partnering with community organizations that address social determinants of health,” she says. Mercy Care’s Community Reinvestment program funds organizations that improve the health and well-being of children, individuals and families, enabling them to live independently, permanently and safely in their communities. “Our support also includes both ﬁnancial investments and grants for organizations including Save the Family, Teen Lifeline, Valle del Sol, Activate Food Arizona, Arizona Home Matters, Barrow Neurological Institute, Area Agency on Aging, ACCEL, Hushabye Nursery, Central Arizona Shelter Services, Pinnacle Prevention and Sonoran Prevention Works,” Toll says. Toll and Mercy Care are also huge supporters of Special Olympics of Arizona. According to Toll, Mercy Care’s partnership with Special Olympics of Arizona started with a $10,000 grant for the 2010-11 Summer Games. Since then, Mercy Care’s support has continued to grow, providing more than $200,000 in ﬁnancial assistance, delivering more than 19,000 free health screenings, training more than 1,000 health professionals and students to educate and treat people with intellectual disabilities, and offering more than 3,400 employee volunteer hours. “Most recently, Mercy Care served as presenting sponsor for Special Olympics of Arizona’s Return to Activities Initiative, providing education and supplies to all members of the Special Olympics Arizona community in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure a safe return when in-person sports and activities resume,” Toll says. NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

FRESH • PHILANTHROPY

Around the Pen Nonproﬁt sanctuary recruiting volunteers to help pigs and piglets

By Annika Tomlin

anielle Betterman was gifted her first pig, Beezers, 12 years ago. She researched the ins and outs of raising a pig in the Valley. Wanting to impart her knowledge and her love of pigs, she opened Better Piggies Rescue in 2017. “I started doing research and quickly started volunteering with other organizations around the Valley, like Ironwood Pig Sanctuary and Circle L Ranch (Animal Rescue and Sanctuary) out in Prescott, and then just saw the need for rescues and adoptions,” Betterman says. “The number of pigs that are purchased as pets and then discarded is outstanding,” Betterman says. “It’s an issue that a lot of people don’t know about. It’s a very unique issue, but it has gotten out of control.” Located at 36246 N. 24th Street, Phoenix, the nonprofit takes in around 25 surrendered pigs every two weeks. Last year alone the nonprofit rescued 200 pigs. “We have 110 pigs on the property right now — all rescues,” Betterman says. “We also have three cows that are rescues as well.” To help care for the 110 pigs, Better Piggies Rescue is restarting its volunteer program that was stopped in lieu of COVID-19. “Before COVID we were doing Piggy Yoga and Get Fit with the Pigs and we would have these large crowds on our tours and our (volunteer) orientations, and then COVID hit and it was just, we had to stop,” Betterman explains. “Just for the safety of myself and our rescue manager and also for the volunteers that would come on a daily basis and then the pigs, too.” Unaware at the time if pigs could contract and spread COVID-19, the rescue named safety a No. 1 priority. “Now that people are getting vaccinated and things are opening up and people that are not vaccinated are still wearing masks, we’re able to have our events again, so we are starting with our volunteer orientations,” Betterman says.

Volunteers of any age — minors require parent or guardian accompaniment — should attend the hourlong orientation for $25 to “learn about the sanctuary and get a tour,” according to Betterman. The orientation also includes an exclusive BPR volunteer shirt and car sticker. The Saturday morning orientations Summer and Beau are two identical pigs that were rescued and are booked for July surrendered to Better Piggies Rescue. (Photo courtesy of Danielle Betterman) and are nearly full for August. However, whether that be abandonment in the desert or orientations run through the end of the year. just our on the street, abuse by people or other To sign up, visit betterpiggiesrescue.org. animal attacks,” Betterman says. Waivers are required for the volunteers and are “They all come in with a very unique story, on the website. and they all come in very scared. It’s really “(During orientation) you learn the important for us to bring home the fact that different pens and what kind of needs each our volunteers are here to socialize with them pen has,” Betterman says. and reteach them that people are good and “You get to learn 110 names that you won’t that they don’t have to be afraid.” remember at all. Then you get to see what we Beezers and his best friend, Beyoncé, are need from our volunteers — where to go to among Betterman’s “forever pigs.” clean up the poop or what wallows to reﬁll and “It is so hard because we do adoptions as what pigs you can interact with.” well, but if a pig doesn’t get adopted out, they’ll Volunteers complete a variety of tasks, just stay here forever,” Betterman says. “We including picking up pig waste. don’t move them around to other sanctuaries if “We have 110 pigs,” she says. “You are they feel comfortable here, and if they don’t get going to have a lot of poop. We want to make a forever home, then this is their forever home. sure that the area is as clean as possible for “Twelve is what we claim as our ‘forevers,’ these pigs, because some are still recovering but it’s a lot more than that because there from extreme trauma or they got spayed or are a couple of pigs that we won’t adopt out neutered. It’s really important for all areas of because of health issues. We don’t adopt out the sanctuary to be clean of poop.” any of our farm hogs because they are seen as Cleanliness also extends to the pools that meat pigs, so we don’t want anybody to get are used during the summer to keep the pigs ahold of them.” cool. Outside of picking up poop and cleaning Better Piggies Rescue out the wallows, volunteers are asked 36246 N. 24th Street, Phoenix to socialize with the pigs, according to 602-790-2955 Betterman. betterpiggiesrescue.org “Because all of our pigs are rescue animals, they are coming from horriﬁc situations,

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

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Class

FRESH • TRAVEL

A Touch of

The Langham Huntington is near charming Downtown Pasadena, which is a foodie’s dream. (Photos courtesy of the Langham Huntington, Pasadena)

The Langham Huntington is Pasadena’s ‘jewel’ By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

estled at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Langham Huntington, Pasadena, is an oasis among lush landscaping. Kindness and beauty exude from the Spanish Mission Revival-style resort. Attendants readily share facts about the resort, which is peppered with Pasadena’s trademark roses. Wedding parties rush around the Langham Huntington, as brides and grooms are photographed among the gardens. “We have a lot of brides who like to do their photo shoots here,” says Leslie Marks of the Langham Huntington, Pasadena. “Even if their wedding is later in the year, they’ll take their engagement photos here.”

Even Marks, a Pasadena native, has fond memories of the resort. “I remember coming here to have tea when I was little,” Marks says. Staying at the Langham Huntington is a peek into the history of Pasadena.

Langham history

Afternoon tea is just one of the traditions built into the Langham Huntington. Constructed by Civil War veteran Gen. Marshall C. Wentworth and designed by Charles Frederick Whittlesey in the Spanish Mission Revival style, the hotel opened in February 1907 as the Hotel Wentworth. “The roof was only partially finished and only built up to the fourth floor,” Marks says. “They had heavy rains that first season, so guests stayed pretty much at other resort areas. They didn’t come to Pasadena. On top of that, we lost a lot of construction workers to the 1906 earthquake who were rebuilding San Francisco.” As a result, The Wentworth closed in July 1907. Four years later, it was purchased by

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

railroad tycoon and art collector Henry E. Huntington and reopened in 1914 as the Huntington Hotel after a facelift by architect Myron Hunt, who also designed the Huntington Library. He added two floors and the belvedere tower. “The hotel had great success — so much so that it went from being a winter resort to, in the ’20s, finally opening year-round,” she says. “Because of that, in 1926, an Olympicsized pool was built. It was the first one in California.” The 20-acre hotel stayed under his purview until 1918. Within the next eight years, 27 bungalows were built to accommodate long-term guests. A subsequent owner, Stephen W. Royce, sold the hotel to Sheraton, and it took on a new moniker, the Huntington-Sheraton Hotel, in 1954. Designers covered most of the hotel’s interior detailing and artwork. “They plastered over all the windows and

The afternoon tea has returned to the Langham Huntington, Pasadena.

The Langham Huntington, Pasadena’s lobby shines.

stained-glass windows,” she says. “In the ’50s, I guess, aesthetics wasn’t a thing any longer. They plastered over the gold-gilded ceiling as well. It was a Sheraton for many years in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s.” Marks says, in 1986, seismic testing showed the building was not up to code. “It was like a fourth of what it should be, in terms of ability,” she says. The neighbors voted on May 19, 1987, to tear down the hotel and build it up again to its original footprint, Marks says. “It was during the construction that a construction worker put his hammer through plaster and 10 stainedglass windows appeared.” They were covered by Sheraton when the Georgian Ballroom was converted to a dining room. It reopened on March 18, 1991, with 383 rooms as the Ritz-Carlton, Huntington Hotel, which is similar to the original but with NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

FRESH • TRAVEL The Picture Bridge overlooks the pool, which was shortened because guests jumped off the bridge and into the pool.

modern facilities, Marks says. The hotel was sold to Great Eagle Holdings for $170 million and renamed the Langham Huntington, Pasadena, on January 8, 2008. “We’re on 23 acres, but you wouldn’t know it from just driving up,” Marks says.

Celebrity guests

Equipped with a spa, steakhouse, poolside dining and afternoon tea, the hotel welcomes visitors from around the world, including U.S. presidents and the Dalai Lama. The 27 cottages surrounding the property have been converted to private residents on the loop road. “We still retain eight of them, one of them being Ford Cottage, which is named after President Ford. It was where he liked to stay when he came here.

“I’ve been told Prince Philip came here at some point.” The Langham Huntington is the home to the Television Critics Association’s upfronts.

Don’t miss

The Picture Bridge is a must-see at the Langham Huntington.

These executive rooms are 450 to 550 square feet on the seventh or eighth floor. They have a view of the gardens or the San Gabriel Mountains.

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

In 1932, the hotel hired a local artist, English immigrant Frank Montague Moore, to paint 41 murals for the hotel. “The painter was paid $10 a painting, and he and his wife were told they could eat at the hotel while the was working on them,” Marks says. “It was during the Depression, so I’m sure he said, ‘OK, done.’ “They were up for decades and weathered,” Marks says. “They were so faded that it’s hard to tell the subject matter So, in 2013, they were taken down and put in a climate-controlled art facility, where they still are. They’re too delicate to put back on display. We had replicas made that are just brighter, cleaner versions of them.” The Picture Bridge is the Langham Huntington’s jewel. “It’s the only covered picture bridge in America, and the only other one that I know of is in Switzerland,” Marks says. “That inspired it. It’s a nice little stroll.” With the help of Pasadena Heritage, a historic preservation organization, and architects who specialize in those buildings, the resort reinstalled the artwork and reinforced the bridge. “They put steel beams and reinforced the wood,” Marks says. “It’s a mix now of the original wood and new, stronger wood.

FRESH • TRAVEL The ground-floor, twobedroom Ford Cottage Suite is 2,297 square feet. With two king beds, the suite has a view of the hotel gardens.

It has descriptions of all the paintings.” The pool has since been shortened because guests jumped off the Picture Bridge into the pool. “I think the hotel was like, no, no, no,” she says with a laugh. “I have guests come in and say, ‘My dad used to jump off that bridge.’ I say, ‘I’m glad we don’t have that anymore.’”

The Langham Huntington, Pasadena The Royce | Wood Fired Steakhouse features USDA prime cuts, Australian wagyu and Japanese Kobe beef, prepared over a wood-fired grill.

1401 S. Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena, California 626-568-3900, langhamhotels.com NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

FRESH • GETTING TO KNOW...

Gem Floral and Rentals Mariam Chekmeyan’s dream is blossoming By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

A Sandra Day O’Connor High School graduate, Mariam Chekmeyan of Gem Floral and Rentals quit her job to start a floral company. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

ariam Chekmeyan was working full time for a construction company and made a great salary. But the desk job stifled the North Phoenix woman’s creativity. “I’m a very creative person,” the Sandra Day O’Connor High School graduate says. “I couldn’t be myself doing things with construction and office work. I told my boyfriend, ‘I am quitting my job.’ “He says, ‘Not until you figure out what you’re doing.’” She quit her job and, for three weeks, she cleaned houses in Anthem to make money. It was then that she had an epiphany. “I have a small baking business on the side,” the 23-year-old recalls. “A lot of my work includes flowers.” She founded Deer Valley’s Gem Floral and Rentals. “I’ve always decorated my pastries and chocolate-covered strawberries with flowers,” she says. “I’ve always loved flowers and being creative. My goal since I was 15 years old was 14

to be in the wedding (business). I have a love for creating. “When I suggested starting our own flower shop, my boyfriend supported me 100%. He said to go for it. We’ve been really busy.” Her wedding business is picking up, and she calls those events “fun.” “I recently did my first wedding,” she says. “I hope to, one day, be a full-time wedding florist and to have a team to continue what I’m doing now.” This summer, Chekmeyan will add a creative activity to her events. “I will be introducing a flower bar,” she says. “I rent out a bar and, instead of passing out drinks, I make fresh flower arrangements. Whoever is at your flower bar or party gets a fresh bouquet to take home.” While Chekmeyan is building her website, she is taking orders through social media and text via @gemflorals on Instagram, facebook.com/mchekmeyan, or 480-3108323. “I work with wire companies as well,” she says. “We take a lot of orders from there. We’ve

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

been posting through social media, spreading the world through word of mouth. We have a plaza with a lot of men. They’re always buying flowers for their wives. “I love that they have that choice of creating.” Chekmeyan is a first-generation American, as her parents are Armenian. Her brothers were born in Armenia and Russia, and 15 years later their parents had her. “My grandmother was a huge flower fanatic,” says Chekmeyan, who will decorate her wedding with peonies. “You could buy her flowers and she would be the happiest person on Earth. She passed away eight years ago. “I think flowers can change your mood. It changes my mood all the time. Every morning, when I get my shipment of flowers, I’m the happiest person ever.”

Gem Floral and Rentals

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SHE MAKES HER

STORY orth Valley Magazine spoke with female entrepreneurs from diverse industries to get their take on their paths to success. These businesswomen discuss their pivotal moments and decisions that changed the trajectories of their careers. ...Continues on page 16 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

OnandPins

Needles

Morgan Renfro and Marissa Abdo opened one-of-a-kind aesthetic practice Lumen + Bevel Aesthetics in July 2020. (Photo by Dennis Murphy)

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Lumen + Bevel Aesthetics makes injectables comfortable

efore returning to injectables like Botox and filler became Scottsdale, the city a necessity. In fact, Phoenix happens they call home, to be No. 3 in the nation for Galderma Marissa Abdo and injectables. So, it’s really nice for us Morgan Renfro were to have the experience and to be able team members of Dr. to specialize in someone’s personal, 90210 in Beverly individual facial anatomy.” By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Hills, one of the top Abdo was inspired to work in the field 10 practices in the after being mentored by Dr. Robert nation for Allergan and Cohen at Scottsdale Center for Plastic Galderma injectables. Surgery at age 18. Working full time, Abdo, MS, RN, CANS, and “It was all because of him that I really became inspired to work Renfro, RN CANS, saw nearly 2,000 patients per year. in this field,” Abdo says. “Recently, my aesthetic journey came According to Renfro, the average plastic surgeon will see full circle because I was able to train one of Dr. Cohen’s nurses. around 500 clients. It also hit me how much the industry has grown. When I started, “We were able to see about 2,000 because we specialize in there were only two filler products. Now we have over 13 FDAstrictly facial aesthetic injectable treatments,” Abdo says. approved injectable fillers and more that are pending.” “When COVID hit, we were booked out about four When training other injectors, Abdo stresses for them to not months. Unfortunately, the entire company was laid off. We feel too comfortable, because that’s when mistakes are made. had always joked about coming to Scottsdale and starting “It’s so complex,” she says. “You really have to know what our own practice, and the pandemic ripped the Band-Aid off you’re doing to make sure that your patients are pleased with the for us.” results and, most importantly, stay safe.” Abdo went to nursing school at ASU and Scottsdale is Renfro says these treatments are, after all, medical procedures Renfro’s hometown, so the duo returned to the Valley and and “negative things can happen.” combined their expertise to open a one-of-a-kind aesthetic “Our specialty is knowing how to safely navigate the face practice called Lumen + Bevel Aesthetics in July 2020. and be able to do that based on their anatomy, understanding “In addition to our own practice, we’re both national how the products work, and the right amount to use in the right trainers for Allergen and Galderma, which are the areas.” companies that make the products, and we’ve been able Although they subscribe to the “not feeling comfortable” to train other injectors at the majority of practices in the theory, they are confident in their abilities. Phoenix area.” “There are a lot of people who do Botox here and other While the two started from scratch, they’ve seen treatments,” Renfro says. “I think finding someone who is really more than 500 clients within the first year of opening. specialized is extremely important. We’re certified aesthetic Additionally, as a testament to their work, LA clients nurse specialists and we have our aesthetic certification, which is have visited them in their space at Taglio Salon. an added layer that proves we are experts in this field.” The women treat cheeks, lips, brows, chins, jawlines Each consultation is personalized, as Renfro and Abdo really and the neck. Many of the nonsurgical, injectable want to get to know their clients. They do a full facial assessment procedures they offer take less than an hour, cause so they can suggest the right injectables to achieve the patient’s little to no bruising, and leave patients with naturaldesired look. looking results. “They can ask us any questions right there on the spot, and we “It’s very hard to get into this industry. You need a answer everything to ensure they feel extremely comfortable,” medical degree, such as a registered nurse, physician’s Renfro adds. assistant, nurse practitioner or a physician. Our “We do complimentary consultations, because we never want facial anatomy knowledge is extremely important people to feel pressured when it comes to their face. As the to us. We practice injecting cadavers once every six owners of Lumen + Bevel Aesthetics, we truly pride ourselves in months to perfect our craft, and we truly believe we being honest with our patients. Having them look their best is are elevating the injectable level in Arizona.” our ultimate goal, and we say no just as much as we say yes.” They say they feel there’s a good market for it in the state. Lumen + Bevel “When everyone started working from home 7000 E. Mayo Boulevard, Suite 1062, Phoenix and Zoom became the way to connect, people 480-536-7278, lumenandbevel.com started focusing more on their faces,” Renfro says. “We learned during the pandemic that NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

‘You CAN HAVE IT Scottsdale mother empowers women as leading expert in innovative dentistry By Jordan Houston

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

hen it comes to leadership, Dr. Sara Vizcarra sets the tone, not only as a professional but as a woman, Latina and mother as well. Dr. Vizcarra, an esteemed dentist at North Scottsdale’s Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry, has built a reputation for herself as a knowledgeable, personable and compassionate doctor in a variety of services, including cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, prosthodontics and implant dentistry. A single mother of one, Dr. Vizcarra has built an empire since beginning her practice, Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry, at 10465 E. Pinnacle Peak Parkway, 15 years ago. She has since expanded the operation to include other doctors and specialists. What makes Dr. Vizcarra’ s practice unique from the others is its specialization in temporomandibular ...Continues on page 20

Dr. Sara Vizcarra, a renowned dentist at AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions, is a successful Latina, doctor, entrepreneur, mother, sister, daughter, aunt and teacher. She has made a name for herself as an accomplished role model for women, mothers and career professionals everywhere by enlisting passion, drive, dedication and courage. (Photo by Walter Larsen)

...Continued from page 18 joint (TMJ) disorders and sleep apnea. “I can create a beautiful smile for a patient. That’s easy. But to change the lives of patients in pain, now that’s rewarding,” Dr. Vizcarra says. “My goal is to educate dentists in our community to look for signs of temporomandibular disorders. These specific cases are complex and could require additional time and research, but that’s just part of the process if we want to achieve the goal of giving our patients a better quality of life.” A graduate of the University of Missouri School of Dentistry, Dr. Vizcarra broadened her specialties to include craniofacial medicine, offering treatment for orofacial pain, as well as dental-related sleep problems. TMJ disorders, a type of temporomandibular disorder, can cause pain in the jaw joint and muscles that control jaw movement, according to Mayo Clinic. Causes include injury to the teeth or jaw, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, teeth grinding or clenching, poor posture, stress, arthritis and gum chewing. “Many of the patients I have treated have come into my office in severe pain. However, after a few weeks of treatment, they come back smiling and even bearing gifts,” Dr. Vizcarra says with a chuckle. Dental sleep medicine is an area of dental practice that focuses on the use of oral appliance therapy to treat sleep-disordered breathing, encompassing snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Dentists, like Dr. Vizcarra, generally work with physicians to identify the best treatment for each patient. “Much of it is educating my patients about nutrition and how to decrease inflammation, as well as encouraging them to get better sleep,” Dr. Vizcarra explains. After completing several residencies, coupled with years of treating these conditions, Dr. Vizcarra has become a diplomate of the American Board of Craniofacial Pain, the American Board of Craniofacial and Dental Sleep Medicine, and the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. “I am lucky to have chosen a career which has provided so much fulfillment. Although it took determination, courage and vision, nothing was going to stop me,” 20

Dr. Vizcarra says. “When it comes to leadership, you must be able to establish goals and execute your vision. However, you won’t be able to do so without a good team around you to help every step of the way.” The triple-board-certified dentist attributes much of her success to her staff of 14. An idol for women in the workplace, there is more to Dr. Vizcarra than meets the eye. Dr. Vizcarra balances her time by conducting free lectures and classes to other providers in the community. “In my spare time, I teach other professionals about craniofacial pain, and one day I would love to educate the public as well,” she says. Her classes seek to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms that are often overlooked in her field. Dr. Vizcarra is also dedicated to volunteering dental care to patients who don’t have the resources to get the care they need in the United States, as well as Central and South America — stemming from her childhood in El Salvador. Growing up in a small town, Dr. Vizcarra recalls the first time she encountered a female dentist when she was 12. After moving to a larger city with her mother, a dental appointment helped her realize she wanted to pursue the profession. “For some reason, I always thought dentistry was an important aspect in my life. I checked myself into the local hospital, which was like a big clinic, for a dental appointment,” Dr. Vizcarra recalls. “With a lot of socialized health care systems, there are no parents, no informed consents, nor money to deal with. You simply check yourself in for regular checkups. “There she was, the first female doctor I had ever met. I remember sitting in the dental chair while getting my fillings, looking up and thinking she’s so pretty,” she says. At 16, Dr. Vizcarra and her family moved to California to flee the Salvadoran Civil War of the 1980s. The teenager maintained a hard work ethic throughout school to help her family financially and save for dental school. Dr. Vizcarra worked as a waitress and a seamstress in Los Angeles. “We were typical immigrants with

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

nothing. We lived in a tiny little apartment, and my mom went to work as a seamstress,” Dr. Vizcarra says. “After high school, I had to help her, so I worked in the sweat shops. However, I was determined to become a dentist ever since I was a little girl.” Dr. Vizcarra graduated from the Kansas City dental school in 2003. She practiced public health, helping the underserved population, before exploring the continuing education courses that ultimately changed the trajectory of her career. “I went to a class about sleep apnea, and I was so intrigued,” she says. “That led to all kinds of advanced learning about really extensive, heavy restorative cases.” Her curiosities about how head and neck pain could be associated with teeth grinding and snoring stemmed from her family’s personal journey with sleep health. During this time, she realized that her then-12-month-old son, Luis, began to grind his teeth. She also suffered from temporal headaches, neck pain, TMJ disorder and insomnia. “I think what makes us better doctors is the fact that we are patients ourselves — we also sit in that chair and have treatments done,” Dr. Vizcarra says. “It was sort of my personal journey to find out why my son was grinding his teeth down to nothing and how I could help him.” After learning those symptoms were related to the sleep cycle, she was inspired to help her patients sleep and feel better. That led to several residencies across the United States, which were dedicated to these topics. Dr. Vizcarra eventually made her way to Arizona and has only continued to flourish as a leader within the field, and as a woman. Her path is a testament that women can,

When it comes to leadership, you must be able to establish goals and execute your vision, according to Dr. Sara Vizcarra. (Photo by Walter Larsen)

in fact, have it all. A proud mother, Dr. Vizcarra champions balance and organization as the keys to a bountiful life. Dr. Vizcarra starts each morning with a list of three tasks to accomplish before the workday. “I don’t like clutter. I keep it simple,” she says. “I think less is better when it comes to the clarity of the mind.” Typical agenda items include meditation and yoga, she adds. This structure allows her to make time for jogging, hiking, salsa dancing and cooking. “I like to lead by example. I can’t tell my patients or staff to be healthy if I am not healthy myself,” she says. “That is the first thing on my list.” Although her leadership capabilities were tested in unprecedented ways during the height of the 2020 pandemic, Dr. Vizcarra

refused to give up on herself and her staff. Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry closed its doors at the end of March and did not reopen until early May. Throughout that time, Dr. Vizcarra armed her staff with the knowledge to comply with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) guidance for health care workers and employers. She also created projects geared toward helping her community in various ways, such as offering grocery pickups for elderly patients. “Last year was a tough year for us. There were tears and sleepless nights, along with a lot of stress and worrying,” Dr. Vizcarra says. “There have been many obstacles in my life; however, this was different. I was concerned for my practice, my patients and my staff. “I wasn’t going to let COVID-19 defeat me,” she continues. “Both practices

emerged from the shutdown stronger than ever. Our schedules are full, and we continue to grow.” Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry has expanded to three operatories and added a new associate to the practice. It has also acquired a new water-based laser that aids in tissue preserving, regenerative and bonebuilding procedures. The staff at Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry and AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions continues to take courses on the latest technology and procedures for better patient care.

AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions 10465 E. Pinnacle Peak Parkway. Suite 103A, Scottsdale 480-515-6209 azsleepandtmj.com

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Kaylavon Middleton, a licensed independent senior insurance broker, started her company, MediSolutions, ﬁve years ago after retiring at age 56. (Photo by Dennis Murphy)

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Rediscovering Herself

aylavon Middleton is a proud, cardcarrying Medicare member and, as a licensed Certified Medicare Insurance Planner, she enjoys helping others navigate the

Kaylavon Middleton emerges as a top insurance broker

system. “I’m there as a bridge when people get ready to retire,” Middleton says. She’s a retiree herself, well, sort of. She left BlueCross BlueShield after 16 years and knew how to tread the Medicare waters herself. Five years ago, she founded MediSolutions. “I was excited when I retired, but I wasn’t done working,” Middleton says. “I wasn’t one of those seniors who were ready to rock in the chair for the rest of her life.” The MediSolutions role came to her organically. She joined a fledgling Medicare agency that eventually shriveled to merely her. “We went through all the training, the government testing, insurance carrier credentialing,” she says. “Things were slow. As with any new business venture, you have to really hunt for your business. “The other people needed income to sustain their lives and families. I didn’t have that problem. I had my core basic responsibility net. I had health insurance because I was retired. I could fish for a long time and not get any fish and be OK.” Middleton was the sole employee who was producing, so she asked to be

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

released from the agency so she could work for herself.

Successful career

Middleton started her career in the health care industry in 1977. She served as a manager in the medical claims division for a major hospital in California and as an account manager for a major insurance company in Arizona. When she decided to retire at age 56, she had the support of her husband. She served as a consultant occasionally, which she calls a blessing. “It was a nice little salary to smile at people,” she says with a laugh. “I can smile.” Now she specializes in all things Medicare. Her core area is working with employer groups as an extension to human resources professionals to help them manage their employees who are turning 65. They may have family members who are dependent on their group plan. She helps her clients understand what happens if they remain working, if they have a health savings account, and if it makes sense to turn to Medicare and still work. “I’m there as a bridge when they get ready to retire,” Middleton says. “I inform them about drug plans by analyzing the

medications they’re on to make sure they have the right plan. “There are 30 drug plans in Arizona. Not all of them are the same. It’s really a skill to be able to navigate through that and find the best plan. I save people thousands of dollars. Last year, my father had a broker, but I asked him if anyone looked into his medications.” Licensed in California, she scrutinized his benefits and realized he was on the wrong plan. She saved him $1,200 annually on medications. Middleton looks out for everyone’s best interest. “I tell people the one thing that’s not talked about when you’re getting ready to retire is what you do with the rest of your life,” she says. “They say, ‘Make sure you have enough money to retire,’ but they don’t share the spiritual and emotional side of being retired. When I retired, it was really a reintroduction to myself, meaning that no one was telling me what time to get up in the morning. No one was telling me when have lunch, when to take a vacation, what projects to get done and the deadlines. You’re left to yourself. You do get reintroduced to yourself. You have to find out who you are now and in this new space.”

MediSolutions LLC

15331 N. Bell Road, Suite 212, Surprise 623-806-4200 (TTY:711), medisolutions.us

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Servicing Com Prestige Cleaners puts its neighbors and staff first By Bridgette M. Redman

Denise Testori, president and CEO of Prestige Cleaners, worked with employees and the community to navigate the pandemic. (Submitted photo)

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

restige Cleaners has been committed to doing the right thing by its customers, employees and community since 1964. It wasn’t about to let a thing like the pandemic change that. President and CEO Denise Testori says she’ll never forget when the news of the pandemic and the lockdowns hit. “It was St. Patty’s Day and there were a lot of rumors swirling around of what was going on,” Testori says. “I called my team — meaning all my plant managers — and we came in for an emergency meeting. It was so awesome. With a click of your fingers, they adjusted the schedule. I had outlined what was happening and how we needed to pull together and devise a system to be able to survive through this. In other words, take care of our customers, take care of our employees and maintain financial health for the company.” A 36-year Prestige Cleaners employee, Testori assumed the title of president and CEO in 2019, just before the pandemic hit. The business has seven plants, and when volume dropped overnight, it consolidated into three plants, keeping equipment running and servicing customers. It made very few changes in company policy and procedures, having already had drive-thrus, after-hour drop-offs, free delivery and pickup, and contactless payment through either its app or website.

the mmunity “We were already using disinfectant and masks and gloves,” Testori says. “The only thing we had to add was the shield at the counter for walk-ins. Everything else was in place.”

Taking care of employees

Prestige managed to get through the pandemic without layoffs, sometimes creating work such as painting the plants and doing chores that staff previously didn’t have time for. “I was really proud of our team,” Testori says. “I said, you know we’re not getting as many pieces, but we want to keep everyone employed — everyone has to be open to wear different hats. We did a lot of renovating and just updating the physical environment.” Prestige made accommodations for employees whose lives were thrown into disarray, especially those who suddenly had children at home when schools closed. It committed to communicating what was happening to everyone in the company, using English and Spanish. It made sure things were in writing so employees could share it with their families to allay any anxiety about job loss. Prestige Cleaners produced a newsletter that allowed staff to share the positives and negatives of the lockdowns, giving employees an opportunity to get to know each other better. As plants combined, employees worked alongside co-workers they had only met at company outings and events. “It was kind of neat to see the camaraderie between the different employees and teams,” Testori says. “It just really worked out.”

Taking care of the community

On Prestige Cleaners’ website, it extols its legacy of service, citizenship and community. It is something it carried on throughout the pandemic. It continued its partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale, held clothing drives, and gave complimentary cleanings to those in need. It also worked with Banner hospitals and the many individuals and organizations who were making homemade masks at the beginning of the pandemic. Prestige Cleaners became a collection site and cleaned thousands of newly made masks that were headed to hospitals. “We worked with Banner hospitals and cleaned many, many pounds of homemade masks,”Testori says. “That was the biggest thing we did — cleaning free masks so that any of their affiliates, visitors or emergency room patients could be provided these clean, homemade masks donated by the community. That was all done complimentary.”

Customers demonstrated loyalty

Just as Prestige Cleaners took care of its communities, the community, in turn, took care of it. Testori said many customers with whom the company had long-term relationships took care of staff, sometimes offering gift cards. “I just really want to thank our customers, our community, for supporting us through this,”Testori says. “They worked with our changes. My gratitude really goes out to the public for supporting our industry. I look back, and I reflect on this: It’s really been a horrid thing and sad to see so many businesses that had to close. It was a struggle. I won’t deny it. The rules were changing

weekly. I am so grateful to those who supported us.”

Scottsdale staple

Founder Don E. Frye opened Prestige’s doors in June 1964 in the Valley of the Sun. Offering dry-cleaning and laundry services, tailoring and alterations, and wedding dress preservation, the company has grown to six Scottsdale locations plus a corporate office. When Don retired in 1981, he handed over the reins to his son Donn Frye, who carried on his father’s commitment to community service and strong corporate citizenship while forging his own path. Now,Testori is guiding Prestige Cleaners as it continues to expand and serve its customers. “From the customers’ perspective, we have the same core values as we did when Mr. Frye, the late founder, had,” she says. “I want to have those but be able to embrace change and allow for us to be in the forefront of serving others, whether it’s our employees, community or customers.” Testori has been dedicated to working with regulatory and legislative agencies on issues pertaining to the industry, helped lead Prestige’s efforts to grow and expand pickup and delivery services, was instrumental in developing an innovative Prestige app, and helped lead the company to be one of the first dry cleaners in Arizona to embrace green practices. The Frye family’s work ethic resonates with Testori. “Family-owned business or not, they’ve always provided a professional culture not unlike what you would get in a big, public organization,” she says. “It allowed for that real personal attention, whether it’s with the employees, the customers or the community.”

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WEATHERING

the

STORM he COVID-19 pandemic came at an unfortunate time for Avery Lane, a consignment store that specializes in items on the high end, from furniture, antiques and fine art to other home accessories. After seeing steady growth and expansion over the first several years in the Scottsdale Airpark, owner Darlene Richert signed for yet another expansion in December 2019, pushing the showroom past 30,000 square feet. But almost as soon as construction finished and Avery Lane reopened in mid-March 2020, its doors closed again. “We opened up March 14 after me having five 80-hour work weeks in a row … and then we closed again on the 17th,” Richert recalls. “So, it was an absolute shell shock, because I had just signed a big, major lease and got all the construction and all the work — so a little scary.” One might expect a small business like Avery Lane to see a decline; instead, Richert notes a 10% increase in business from 2019 to 2020, beating her projections and marking a record year of growth. She expects this year to be even better. “(I’m) really happy with how we were able to weather through that storm,” she says. Richert says she kept busy while the shop’s doors were closed, fulfilling prior commitments to clients who were selling homes and moving — while also avoiding furloughing employees. For a while she began to operate by appointment only, and she admits she was “one of the people who crossed the line” by reopening early despite the governor issuing a stay-at-home order in spring 2020. “But at 30,000 square feet, I felt people could

Avery Lane sees growth despite pandemic, hopeful for future By Connor Dziawura

Darlene Richert specializes in highend items at her consignment store, Avery Lane, which has seen continued growth and expansion. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

social distance and everything as easily in my showroom as they could at Home Depot or Costco or Target or their grocery store,” she explains. Like its expansions in the literal sense, selling art has been figuratively transformative for Avery Lane in recent years.Throughout the first handful, Richert found herself receiving frequent calls from clients asking her to take their collections. But after repeatedly turning

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

down such offers, she reconsidered. “Finally, I thought, ‘Wait a second, clearly there’s a need for this,’” she explains. “And so I started taking these beautiful, magnificent, original art.” When Richert opened the shop in 2012 at roughly a third of its current size, she says the already established stores in the Valley targeted the low to mid market — and she didn’t want to be just one more competitor, which is why she

Avery Lane carries furniture of all different colors and textures that come from recognizable, esteemed names, plus plenty of other high-end items. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

aims to curate an upscale inventory, one which rotates regularly. “Because my connections were all on the high end, I wanted to do things that would be very luxurious, that would go into these second homes up in the golf communities north of us — in the Desert Highlands, the Desert Mountain,Troon, Silverleaf, DC Ranch,” she explains, noting a background in sales and marketing in golf development. “And so I wanted to attract that buyer and showcase very beautiful furniture, because there really was nowhere for them to go.” As such, her goal is for Avery Lane to be “exquisite,” with furniture of all different colors and textures that come from recognizable, esteemed names such as Theodore Alexander and Maitland-Smith. Clients have included anyone from CEOs to golf and baseball athletes. There’s even a separate boutique inside called Pagoda Lane, which Richert says has also expanded, now encompassing roughly 2,200 square feet. Its owners’ specialties range from home decor to accessories like handbags and jewelry. “What I’m trying to do at Avery Lane is really create a showroom that really kind of fills all your senses,” Richert describes. “You look at amazing chandeliers, they’re one of a kind, you haven’t seen them anywhere else; you look at sofas, all different colors; we put beautiful florals on the coffee tables; and on the dining room tables we have china and crystal. So, it’s like walking through kind of like a madman’s

mansion, because everybody’s obviously a little different, but every room is beautiful in and of itself.” She hopes to create an experience and a “party atmosphere” — achieved, she says, by playing music in the showrooms, serving champagne, and having quality salespeople. “We’re really trying to create something different than just a place to buy furniture,” Richert explains. That’s all the more apparent when Avery Lane holds fundraisers, concerts and other events in store, something the pandemic has put on pause. Nevertheless, Richert is hopeful things are turning around. “Quite honestly, it’s been a really tough year for us, because that’s what we love doing,” she says. “We love having those events. We love having everybody come, and our clients love it and it’s kind of become part of their social calendar, is, ‘What is Avery Lane doing?’ And so we really hope to, once COVID lifts, bring

that back in a big way. So, hopefully this fall we can bring that back.” Because Richert emphasizes the importance to her of being a part of the community, Avery Lane sponsors the Scottsdale Philharmonic and supports organizations such as Rosie’s House, Arizona Helping Hands, K2 Adventures Foundation and Send Me On Vacation. And she says she encourages philanthropy to other Airpark businesses whom she knows. “It is one of the core values for me as a person, and it’s one of the core values for our company, is giving back,” Richert says. “We love being extremely philanthropic for causes that we believe in.”

Avery Lane

15613 N. Greenway-Hayden Loop, Scottsdale 480-991-0700, averylanehome.com

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GIVING PEOPLE

Hope Dr. Laura Brockel amplifies her patients’ lives By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

s a child, Laura Brockel often visited her great aunt, who fell deaf after a case of the measles. She watched her struggle with amplification devices and doctors. “She found it difficult to find someone who was reputable and had the qualifications to handle someone with the profound hearing loss she had,” the North Scottsdale resident says. “She had had cords running up her dress from a battery pack strapped to her leg. She had a ‘body aid,’ a large box that she wore in her bra, and that led to her hearing aids.” Witnessing that plight, Brockel studied audiology at Purdue University and AT Still University. She recently opened a mobile practice, Executive Hearing Solutions, that specializes in hearing devices and advanced audiology technology. “Testing is done in their homes,” she says about her patients. “I have a portable audiometer. If they need hearing aids, all the testing and fitting can be done in the home. They don’t have to go anywhere.” Frequently, Brockel works with professionals whose jobs are affected by their hearing loss. “Fortunately, we’ve come a long way with technology,” says Brockel, whose practice is private pay. “I specialize in higher-end technology. I’ve worked with attorneys who are having difficulties hearing conversations with their clients or in the courtroom. “A lot of business executives have problems on Zoom calls, in the boardroom and in the courtroom. I mainly 28

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

help executives maintain their edge in the corporate world and not give way to the younger folks who are coming in.” The practice comes after 30 years in manufacturing — product manager, technical trainer, audiology support and manufacturing representative. Her knowledge is so vast that she has spoken at a variety of conferences and training sessions in the United States, Hong Kong, Spain and Jamaica. “I’m a firm believer that all audiologists should spend some time working for a hearing aid manufacturer,” Brockel says. “You learn the ins and outs of audiology when you work for a manufacturer, as opposed to working with a private practice or an ENT practice. “You learn how hearing aids work, how they’re fitted, the tricks of the trade — things you otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to learn easily.” A year into Executive Hearing Solutions, Brockel is pleased with the results — and it fits her personality well. “I love meeting people from all walks of life,” she says. “I’m definitely a people person. My kids tease me and say, ‘Mom, do you have to talk to everybody?’ It’s easy for me to talk to people. I think it’s fascinating to find out how people fell into their careers. This is the perfect career for me.”

Dr. Laura Brockel

Executive Hearing Solutions 1-800-985-9470

Dr. Laura Brockel studied audiology at Purdue University and AT Still University. (Submitted photo)

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HOME • TRIMBLE’S TALES

What really happened to Curly Bill Brocius By Marshall Trimble

After Wyatt Earp and Curly Bill met unexpectedly at Cottonwood Springs, there was a furious exchange of gunﬁre.

he other day I received a letter asking, “What really happened to Curly Bill? I’m hearing two different stories.” I replied, “That’s because there are two different stories.” During the months following the street fight in Tombstone, the cowboys, after the Spicer Hearings, cleared the Earps of murder and resorted to ambushing their enemies. On the evening of December 28, 1881, Virgil Earp was ambushed while patrolling the streets of Tombstone. Then, a few weeks later, on March 18, 1882, Morgan Earp was gunned down by an assassin. The next day, the coroner’s jury included Curly Bill among seven suspected assassins. But, once again, friends of the suspects provided alibis for them and they were all released, proving once more a cowboy couldn’t be convicted in Cochise County. Wyatt Earp knew he would only get justice for the shooting of his brothers if he took the law into his own hands. He would be his brothers’ avenger, becoming judge, jury and executioner. Wyatt led a small posse of friends on a vendetta against the perpetrators. On March 24 at Cottonwood Springs, in the southern end of the Whetstone Mountains, west of Tombstone, Wyatt and Curly Bill met unexpectedly at the watering hole. There was a furious exchange of gunfire. Curly Bill and Wyatt were armed with shotguns. Bill fired first, and his burst hit Wyatt’s coat. Wyatt opened up with both barrels and nearly cut Bill in half. With Curly Bill out of the fight, Wyatt turned his attention to the other cowboys, who were ducking and dodging, firing wildly as they ran for cover. Wyatt dropped the empty shotgun and reached for his 28

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

(Image by Bob Boze Bell)

pistol, but during the excitement, he’d forgotten the loosened gun belt, which had slid down around his knees. To make matters worse, his horse, spooked by the gunfire, was doing a war dance, keeping Wyatt from pulling his Winchester from the scabbard. The outlaws made their getaway into the woods, firing as they ran, while a preoccupied Wyatt and his mount were doing a circle dance. One of the cowboy’s bullets ripped through the horn on his saddle and another shot off his boot heel. Wyatt was able get off a few well-aimed shots into a grove of cottonwoods where the cowboys sought shelter. One of them, Johnny Barnes, suffered a gunshot wound. It’s believed he died later of his wounds. Afterward, Wyatt rejoined his friends, who ﬂed when the shooting started, and the cowboys sought refuge in the cottonwood trees. It was said they took the bodies to the Patterson ranch on Babocomari Creek and buried them in a secret grave.

Bill’s friends denied their leader died at the hands of Wyatt. Some said he went to Mexico, married a senorita and lived happily ever after. Others claimed he went to Colorado and got a new start; still others said he went back to Texas. Did Wyatt kill Curly Bill? Truth is, nobody was ever able to prove he didn’t. The Tombstone Epitaph, the newspaper supporting the Earps, ran a story agreeing with Wyatt’s version; and the cowboy organ, the Nugget, sided with the cowboys. They claimed he’d been miles away and offered a $1,000 reward to anyone who could produce Curly Bill’s dead carcass. In response the Epitaph offered a $2,000 reward to anyone who could produce an alive Curly Bill. Surely, Curly Bill himself couldn’t resist an offer like that. One thing is certain, no one ever saw or heard from him again. What do I think? I think Wyatt killed him. There was no way the cowboys were going to admit Wyatt killed their leader.

AUTO TRENDS • HOME The GR Supra costs an additional $425 for premium Nitro Yellow paint. (Photos courtesy of Toyota)

Best-Kept Secret Toyota’s Supra star is reborn

ew vehicles inspire driving enthusiasts’ passion as the Supra. Toyota’s 2+2 sports car hadn’t been sold in the United States for more than 20 years, until it wondrously reappeared as a 2020 model. It was a true two-seater, sharing a platform with the BMW Z4 and powered by a 335-horsepower, turbocharged, 3.0-liter, straight-six engine. Fast forward one model year, and this fifth-generation 2021 GR Supra now comes with either a 255-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine or a revised 3.0-liter turbo straight-six good for a whomping 382 horsepower. Either engine comes mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and manual mode gear selection. With all that power, you’d think the Supra — especially the bigger-engine 3.0 version — would be a real hoot, and you’d be absolutely correct. Thanks to a modest 3,400-pound curb weight and super-sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, 255/35 front and 275/35 rear on 19-inch wheels all around, the GR Supra 3.0 can reach 60 mph from a dead stop in less than four seconds. Equally impressive to its off-the-line

By Greg Rubenstein

speed is the Supra’s near-telepathic dynamic responsiveness. Lane change? Think it and give the wheel the slightest nudge, and you are right there, right now, slipping around a lane hog or carving up the most technical twisty mountain roads Arizona has to offer. Need to shed speed, either for an unexpected hazard or that upcoming hairpin? A firm foot applied to the brake activates the 3.0’s monster four-piston Brembo front calipers, generating enough negative g’s to avoid trouble in any situation short of lunacy. Far more than its Teutonic cousin, the Supra’s styling sizzles. With abundant swoops and scoops, a low-slung roof and even longer-slung hood, plus a smartly clipped rear deck topped by a short spoiler, Toyota did a good job creating a look quite distinct from the Z4. Inside, the cabin is crisp and highly functional. Unlike many small sports cars, everything in the GR Supra is ergonomically positioned, with switchgear that falls readily to hand; intuitive controls, including the mouse-controlled multifunction infotainment system; and an excellent forward view. The GR Supra’s only demerits are typical of the genre: ingress/egress only a contortionist could love — although it becomes acceptable with practice — and

Inside the GR Supra, the cabin is crisp and highly functional. Unlike many small sports cars, everything in the GR Supra is ergonomically positioned, with switchgear that falls readily to hand; intuitive controls, including the mousecontrolled multifunction infotainment system; and an excellent forward view.

gnarly blind spots aft of the driver and passenger side b-pillars, big enough to hide a semi-tractor-trailer. Fortunately, Toyota’s engineers recognized their swoopy style came at the expense of rear side visibility and paid it forward by installing a blind spot monitor system with warning lights in both side mirrors — problem solved. The GR Supra comes in four trims, with an MSRP starting at $42,990 for the 2.0. Three variants of the 3.0 are offered, with the base 3.0 priced at $50,990 and the range-topping special A91 edition priced at $55,990. The sampled 3.0 Premium starts at $54,490; add in $1,195 for the driver assist package (providing dynamic radar cruise control, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert system, and parking sensors with integrated braking function), $425 for premium Nitro Yellow paint, $80 for a cargo mat, and delivery of $995, and this GR Supra’s outthe-showroom price came in at $57,185. As hot as this new GR Supra is, its sales have been sluggish, with fewer than 10,000 sold across the United States in its first year after reintroduction. For the fortunate few who are in the know and happily park a Supra in their garage, low sales equal exclusivity, and at the risk of letting this ferocious cat out the bag, there are few competitors offering the performance and pure driving joy of the 3.0 — at any price. Take one out for a test and you’ll be in the know, too — just don’t be surprised if you end up driving it home. NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

TASTE • DINE

Buzz worthy

Tim Ummel shares his love of Arizona with Kierland eatery By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

After 25 years in the golf resort and private club industry, Tim Ummel parlayed that experience into The Buzz Eatery & Treats. (Photos by Pablo Robles) 32

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

he Buzz Eatery & Treats is aptly named. Customers “buzz” in and out of the new addition to Kierland Commons. The concept serves as a “hive” where shoppers, residents, neighbors and visitors can enjoy everything from a cup of coffee in the morning to a glass of wine in the evening. Guests will also find craft beer on tap, wine, seasonal cocktails, and homemade “buzzy” popsicles for the kids (made with real sugar) and for the adults (made with an added “boozy” kick). “There’s never been a place to get the buzz of the local community,” co-owner Tim Ummel says. “We have Arizona honey, granola, coffee — all the things indicative of the local community. I want to see the story of why Arizona is so amazing.” The menu is buzzworthy as well. Beverages include what Ummel calls “unparalleled drip coffee,” espressobased options, kombucha and cold press coffee on tap, botanical teas, nitro teas, and other seasonal sips including refreshing summertime lemonade and apple cider in the fall. “We went really extensive with the beverage program,” Ummel says. The menu is worth a mention, to say the least. The Buzz Breakfast offers a mélange of choices, including the build-your-own avocado toast ($6) with options like hard egg, tomato, strawberries, feta, goat cheese, crushed nuts, smoked salmon, onions, capers, hemp seeds or Arizona local honey. Except for salmon ($3) and hard egg

TASTE • DINE

The gluten-free Buzz Chop Salad sees smoked turkey atop a bed of crisp mixed greens with crumbled blue cheese, The Buzz’s “famous” candied pecans and halved grapes tossed in its housemade poppy seed dressing ($11).

($1), the toppings are 50 cents. “Hot and Fast” ($6 to $11) gives those in a rush exactly what they need. The Buzz Scramble (two scrambled eggs, applewood smoked bacon and toast) comes in a variety of combinations, including The DC Rancher (eggs, artisan ham and brie); meat lovers (bacon, artisan ham, imported prosciutto and sausage); Kierland Delight (mixed peppers, onion, squash and pepper jack cheese); and The Buzz breakfast sandwich (two scrambled eggs, bacon, white American cheese and mayo on a freshly toasted focaccia roll). Besides breakfast items, “all-day faves” feature customizable acai bowls ($9); hot and cold sandwiches such as chicken salad, grilled cheese and BLT; soups and salads;

and shareable “for-the-table” items such as Abby’s grilled cheese with honey and a charcuterie board with rosemary-infused garlic oil brushed over lavash bread ($14). Those on the go can select a wide range of conveniently pre-packaged “Side Kicks” (many of which feature The Buzz’s own honey) such as overnight oats; salads from Greek to Caesar; classic sandwiches such as egg salad and smoked turkey; and “Buzz Bites” energy balls that come in a variety of flavors, with gluten-free and vegan options. The Buzz’s atmosphere is bright, open and airy, with counter seating and indoor dining. A dedicated takeaway area ensures graband-goers can “buzz in and buzz out”and get exactly what they need in a timely fashion. “It’s a completely new concept,” Ummel

The caramel macchiato is part of The Buzz Eatery & Treats’ extensive beverage menu.

says. “It’s the first of its kind in the Southwest. We believe it’s a new take on grab and go. You buzz in and buzz out.” With 6,000 doors of vertical living with Kierland Commons and Optima, among other developments, Ummel expects Buzz to make an impression in the neighborhood. Residents can swing by, have a few drinks and walk back home. Ummel is schooled in the food and beverage industry. He has spent 25 years working for golf resorts and private clubs. “I fell into it, to be honest,” he says. “I hailed out of Michigan. As with any great business, the team is what makes this a success. “The Buzz is a convenient and casual place to dine, socialize with neighbors, enjoy a sweet indulgence with the kids, or grab a nourishing meal to take home or back to the office,” Ummel says. “We have something for everyone and multiple options so guests can feel comfortable when they walk through our doors — whether they stay a while or simply ‘buzz in and buzz out.’”

The Buzz Eatery & Treats

The Buzz is a new addition to Kierland Commons.

15215 N. Kierland Boulevard, Suite 190, Scottsdale thebuzzeatery.com NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

TASTE • DINE

Pour the Paso, Exploring the best bottles from the emerging wine region By Alison Bailin Batz

aso Robles is a winemaking region on the rise. Located along California’s Coast, Paso Robles winemaking dates back to the 1980s, but it was the well-received Saxum brand in 2010 followed by Wine Enthusiast naming it the Wine Region of the Year in 2013 that really brought acclaim to the area. Today, there are more than 200 wineries and 40,000 vineyard acres producing at least 60 types of varietals. Here are a few of our favorites: 2020 Justin Vineyards Rosé

Dry yet refreshing with a pale salmon color when poured, the nose is exceptionally floral at first before giving way to berry and apple notes. To the taste, there is an ever-so-slight hint of strawberry and then bigger flavors of melon, raspberry and chamomile. $20 2018 San Simeon Cabernet Sauvignon

J. Lohr Pure Paso Proprietary Red Blend

A perfect entrée to the bold-yet-smooth wines of the region, this blend of J. Lohr’s cabernet and petit sirah dances across the nose and onto the lips with a bouquet of cocoa powder, caramel and star anise. Then, black cherry joins the party, soon becoming the star of the sip. $27

A triumph f rom the famed Riboli family, who’ve been making wine across California for more than 100 years, this cab benefits from aging in a selection of French and American oak barrels, which allows for the wine to develop aromas of baking spices and vanilla before dark fruit and a balanced acidity takes over on the palate. $25 34

AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Vina Robles 2018 Petite Syrah

Structured and elegant with hints of caramel throughout, this rich red comes alive on the palate with bursts of boysenberry and plum before offering a creamy finish that makes it ultra-drinkable all year long, but especially while stuck inside during a summer monsoon. $29

Chronic Cellars 2019 The Unteachables

Do not let the playful name fool you. This is neither a CBD-infused wine nor a kitschy cheap tourist one. A wild child of a bottle, there is a punch of blueberry in every sip as well as blackberry and mocha notes, both balanced by leather before finishing with one final knockout hit of juicy black fruit. $30 One Hope Paso Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

There is not a much better pairing than red wine with chocolate. That is what makes this varietal so special — the

Please! wine itself has just the teeniest flavor of chocolate! Mind you, it is not sweet. The chocolate is but one note in this rich offering. It is complemented by dried herbs and vanilla. $35 Barton 2020 Summertime Grenache Blanc

As bright as the day is long, this delight of a white smells of lemon verbena, green apples and a hint of gravel. To the taste, mango and honeysuckle take center stage before a crisp finish, making it perfect for drinking poolside or on a floaty with friends. $36 Epoch Estate White

This is both a unique blend — grenache blanc, viognier and roussanne — but a unique means of development, as the wine is fermented in what is called an oak cask, offering both oak and concrete. The result is a harmonic combination of ripe yellow peach, lemon oil, green pear, fresh cream and maybe even a bit of wet clay, but in a good way! $40

Adelaida 2018 Counoise

A popular Rhone variety of grape often blended with other types, counoise is known for its pepper and acid. Done right, as it is here, the red grape can shine on i t s ow n . To the eye, it looks like liquid rubies. And to the taste? Beyond the spice, there is a wonderful red currant and clove combination that will be a treat to many a tastebud. $40 2018 Smith & Hook Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

A cabernet through and through, this is a glowing crimson to the eye and sublime to the sip. It starts with cassis and cedar, and perhaps a note of edible flowers. Then, there is a roller coaster of tastes in constant motion on the tongue, notably plum and leather, before a bit of tobacco comes in to balance everything out. $45

2019 My Favorite Neighbor

Named to honor the farmers who work closely with winemakers — his “favorite neighbors” — this bottle is a true celebration of the land and its people. Expect a complex nose of red cherry and raspberry with a bit of toasted marshmallow here, followed by fig compote, coffee and even crème brulee to the taste. $50 2016 True Myth Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Meant to showcase the Central Coast in all its splendor, this varietal feels part good winemaking and good witchcraft. This 100% cabernet is dark and alluring, full-bodied and opulent. It offers flavors of both red and black fruits as well as a duo of mocha and sweet spices in every sensational sip. $55 Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

If layered flavors tickle your fancy, prepare to be pleased. This deep ruby cab offers aromas of currants and smoke before revealing a spice on the nose. To the taste, expect the big, juicy flavors of blackberry and ripe cherry followed by vanilla bean and then intoxicating brown butter. $56 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2021 | SEPTEMBER 2021

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North Valley Magazine - Aug/Sept 2021

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