North Valley Magazine - February/March 2021 by Times Media Group

FEBRUARY 2021/MARCH 2021 · $3.99

Crystal Clear

Kathleen Sabol’s jewelry reflects the Sonoran Desert

A Slam Dunk

Ralph Marchetta watches arena bounce into the 21st century

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CONTENTS

Real Estate Hot Spot Homes are selling briskly in the North Valley

FRESH 8 A New Beginning Long-running Jewish film festival adapts to increasingly virtual world

10 Celebrate Art 6 Feet Apart Susan Morrow Potje’s happy place is under the white tents

12 Far From Ordinary Crown King is in the Southern Bradshaw Mountains, only a few hours from Phoenix

FEATURES 18 A Slam Dunk Ralph Marchetta watches Phoenix Suns Arena bounce into the 21st century

20 Crystal Clear Kathleen Sabol’s jewelry reflects the Sonoran Desert

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

18 22 In the Weeds Proven Media’s Kim Prince elevates marijuana’s reputation

BUSINESS

35 TASTE 31 The Right Move Blue Agave jumps the COVID-19 hurdles

33 Twist Bistro & Gallery

25 Rebirth of Cool

Where art and food come together

Sonoran Desert Olive Oil enlightens drinks and food

35 Midcentury Cool Hula’s owner goes from touring to tikis

27 New Year, New Strategy

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Digital marketing agency suggests businesses rethink 2021

Crystal Clear

HOME 29 Extraordinary Rides

Kathleen Sabol’s jewelry reflects the Sonoran Desert

2021 Mercedes AMG E63 S sedan is worth the steep price tag

30 Treats for Sweets Spread the love with unique gifts this Valentine’s Day

A Slam Dunk

Ralph Marchetta watches arena bounce into the 21st century

ON THE COVER Kathleen Sabol photographed by Tim Sealy

Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co.

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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VOLUME XXI / ISSUE 7 PUBLISHER STEVE T. STRICKBINE Steve@TimesPublications.com

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A new elevated desert living experience in North Peoria, opening soon! Nestled between the White Peak and Twin Buttes mountains, Northpointe at Vistancia is North Peoria’s elevated desert sanctuary, offering some of the most spectacular views in the Valley. Northpointe at Vistancia is planned to include approximately 3,200 homes, resort-style private recreation centers, community parks, and a 1,000 acre mountain preserve with hiking and walking paths.

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FRESH • ARTS

A NEW BEGINNING

Long-running Jewish film festival adapts to increasingly virtual world By Connor Dziawura

hen it came to the timing of last year’s Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival — considered the longestrunning film festival in the Valley — organizers were lucky. The event, which drew nearly 13,000 visitors to Scottsdale, Tempe and Peoria theaters across two weeks, came just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, forcing many businesses to temporarily halt operations and future events to cancel altogether. “We were so lucky. It was amazing. Seriously,” recalls Barry Singer, the festival’s co-Executive Director. “Our tradition is we start the Sunday after Super Bowl, however that works out. … (The virus) really had no effect on us then. It was the following few weeks. “So we were incredibly lucky — and also lucky that we had so much more time to plan (for the 2021 event) than some festivals, Jewish or not, that might’ve had a late spring, early summer. They had the toughest times. We’ve at least had pretty much the full year to plan.” That time planning culminates with the 25th anniversary of the Greater Phoenix

“The Crossing” 8

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Jewish Film Festival, set directly for moviegoers’ screens from Sunday, February 14, to Wednesday, March 3. As a virtual event, it will include three extra days of films this year. Viewers can choose from more than 30 feature-length and short films, building their schedules in a flexible format. Some screenings will be followed by interviews with filmmakers and experts. Individual films cost $12, while the festival pass (all films) is $180. Films will be available for 72 hours once posted, with viewers allotted 48 hours to finish screenings after they start a film — though pausing, rewinding and switching devices during that time are allowed. A free screening of the documentary “Shared Legacies” will precede the festival, at 7 p.m. Saturday, February 13, to coincide with

Black History Month. “It investigates the relationship between the Jewish and African American communities over the years and through the civil rights movement,” according to Singer. “It’s actually a perfect film for the time. We always coincide with Black History Month, so that is a natural for us and it’s a gift to the community.” When it comes to curating films, Singer says organizers don’t want certain subjects, like the Holocaust, to weigh too heavily on the lineup. Acknowledging that Jewish film festivals can have “heavy films,” however, Singer admits finding lighter ones can pose a challenge. Still, having a balance, whether comedy, drama or international, is key. “As we organize the festival, first of all, pretty much it’s any film that we feel is a quality film that has some Jewish content — and that is very subjective,” Singer explains. “It’s one step above the cameraman’s Jewish and many steps below an older Yiddish film, for example.” Many of the films are internationally produced. “Most films are not U.S. films; most of them are international,” Singer continues.

FRESH • ARTS “We’ve had Polish films, we’ve had Argentinian films — you name it, country of origin. And often I’ve noticed ‘country of origin’ is very mixed, so you’ll actually see in the final credits multiple countries involved. And I find that very, very interesting.” The “add-ons,” as Singer calls them, are a notable element. Those are the interviews/ discussions, which are pre-recorded — live Q&As, after all, would be “anarchy,” Singer jokes. “That’s one of the biggest things about going to festivals — you learn more,” Singer says. “I personally love that on TV series when there’s extras. I’m a ‘Walking Dead’ fan completely; I love the discussion show that is afterward. “I am in awe of actors and how they manage to inhabit a character and yet still be able to talk about the character as if it’s a separate person. That ability is just almost — it’s another world to me, the more I know about it.” Singer says he and fellow Co-Executive Director Jerry Mittelman quickly figured the 2021 event would have to go virtual, as last year’s mid-March regular board meeting did the same. About a month or two later, he says,

the decision was made. Singer uses adjectives such as fascinating, interesting and frustrating in describing the switch, adding that planning was “more intense than it has been over the years.” Plus, the festival won’t be able to accurately track how many viewers are in each living room. “There’s a lot of moving parts; there’s a lot to learn. So, in some way, of course, it’s been exciting, because after many years we had it down pat. Well, guess what? It’s not down pat,” Singer admits about the adjustment. “It’s starting from the beginning, in some ways, so that we had to both research various streaming companies then of course the film distributors have to be security comfortable with digital rights and then all of that.” Singer can’t predict what next year’s festival will look like. But the plan is to continue screening films beyond the scheduled event. Last October, in fact, the festival launched the Molly Blank Elder Love Series — sponsored by the Molly Blank Fund — through which residents of 40 Valley senior communities can watch a free film each month on their closed-circuit TVs. Moving forward, thanks to the new virtual technology, Singer says it makes sense to

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continue to show audiences films. The plan is to offer at least one per month throughout 2021; sign up for the monthly newsletter at gpjff.org/gpjff-signup for announcements. “The streaming service, which is quite costly, is an annual contract. If you’re going to have it, might as well use it,” he says. “And we’re constantly seeing films, we’re constantly screening films to see what next year would be like. So we have this extra resource. “None of us know what next year will look like, of course,” he adds. “I can give an educated guess: I wouldn’t be surprised if we’ll start seeing hybrid models. But I don’t know. I don’t know how much the distributors have thought that one through, because they set the rules in their own ways.”

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FRESH • EVENTS

Celebrate Art

6 Feet Apart Susan Morrow Potje’s happy place is under the white tents By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Steel sculptures by artist Michael Jones line the south part of the “big white tent.” (Photo courtesy The Celebration of Fine Art)

usan Morrow Potje has a motto for this year’s Celebration of Fine Art: Celebrate art 6 feet apart. “I think it’s a good, happy place for people to come to,” says Potje, who helms the event with her husband, Jake. The 31st annual festival runs 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Sunday, March 28, with strict rules in place. Masks are required, and patrons who are ill must stay home. Potje spaced the tables farther apart in the café, but tables and chairs have been added to the patio. The Art Discovery series will continue from 4 to 5 p.m. Fridays, but with minimal refreshments. It’s a live and interactive event in which guests hear about the adventures, stories

Abstract artist Erin Berrett’s “Eve Candy.” (Photo courtesy The Celebration of Fine Art)

and processes that shape art. Artists discuss topics such as metalworking, Yasmin Tajik jewelry handlesmaking, her abstract art and sculpture. prints with care, wearing gloves when Recognizablewhite by its signature “big she white prepares themArt to ship. tents,” the Celebration of Fine offers(Photo by Pablo Robles) 40,000 square feet of art ranging from realist to impressionistic, Western realism and abstract to contemporary across all mediums

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

from stone to metal, wood to glass, and canvas. Potje says she brought in a series of new artists and those from her previous events. Michael Jones of Bigfork, Montana, displays his metal work, while Phoenix’s Gedion Nyanhongo once again speaks to guests about his abstract stone carvings. Paul Rhymer will travel from Point of Rocks, Maryland, to sell

FRESH • EVENTS when COVID-19 started creeping up on the world. Potje says it was the best thing to do. “It was an easy decision but a diﬃcult logistical decision,” she says. “Since we’re a temporary thing, everything has to come down. We have to schedule people to help, the dumpsters to come. “We felt, for this year, we have enough space to keep people properly distanced, and the airflow is perfect with the tent walls. We don’t have people elbow to elbow. We filed a COVID plan with the city, which was approved, with all the mitigation things in place. We’re going to do our best to provide a safe environment.” For art lovers who feel uncomfortable, Potje launched an online marketplace at celebrateart.com/marketplace. “We have most of the artists on there; art for immediate purchase,” she says. “We wanted to do that before anyway. With the whole situation, it inspired us to get moving on that. It’s a big job to create an entire marketplace of ecommerce. We launched it December 1, so people can look at it anytime, anywhere.” Visitors admire glass artist Mark Lewanski’s work as wall art from Carlos Page hangs in the foreground. (Photo courtesy The Celebration of Fine Art)

his wildlife-inspired bronze sculptures. Jeweler Michael McRae of Park City, Utah, will make his Celebration of Fine Art debut. David Barkby of Dover, Pennsylvania, uses Buckeye Burl wood to create sculptures and furniture. “Two of his largest pieces he’s ever done will be on display this year,” Potje says. “That’s pretty impressive. We also have an area set up where he can do demos and people can watch him from time to time.” Similarly, patrons can see a 7-foot crow warrior piece by John Todd Paxton of Espanola, New Mexico. “This year, because so many artists were at home for so long, they’ve created more work than they normally do in a year,” Potje says. “We have amazing works of art, some of which are on the marketplace site. It’s awesome. People are looking for something safe and joyful. With so much happening in the world right now, we can all use a happy distraction. We’ve been known as a happy place where people can feel connected through and inspired by the art. I think it’ll be a nice departure for people to be able to come here.” Last year, Celebration of Fine Art decided to close 10 days early Sculpture artist J. Todd Paxton works on one of his larger-thanlife pieces. (Photo courtesy The Celebration of Fine Art)

31ST ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF FINE ART WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Sunday, March 28 WHERE: Hayden Road and the Loop 101 in Scottsdale COST: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military, children younger than 12 are admitted at no charge. The Celebration of Fine Art ticket is an all-event pass that is good for all 10 weeks. INFO: celebrateart.com

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FRESH • TRAVEL ADVERTORIAL

Crown King Saloon.

Crown King is in the Southern Bradshaw Mountains, only a few hours from Phoenix By Carol Boles

Far from ordinary” or “one-pump town” are perhaps the best ways to describe the town of Crown King, located 1 1/2 hours north of Phoenix. This mountaintop community was established in 1888 as a bustling mining town with famous mines such as the Tiger, Gladiator, Grey Eagle and Silver Prince. While the gold fever slowly broke, the town has survived. Crown King is now a popular year-round destination.The elevation is nearly 6,000 feet, providing four gentle seasons for the 120 fulltime residents, hundreds of cabin owners and thousands of visitors each year. Temperatures are 20 degrees cooler than 12

Phoenix, making Crown King an ideal summer cabin location. All you need is a sturdy vehicle and an adventurous attitude.The road to Crown King includes 28 miles of dirt road with breathtaking views, one-lane bridges and numerous switchbacks. A large portion of the road was originally the location of the Santa Fe Railroad, as it stretched up to Crown King in 1904.The line was abandoned, and the train tracks were dismantled in 1926. For the off-road enthusiasts, there is a “back way” from

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Off-road trails.

Lake Pleasant that will challenge a driver’s vehicle and off-road skills during the four-plus hours on an unmaintained rocky trail. No matter how you find your way to Crown King, all roads lead to Main Street and the Historic Crown King Saloon. Walking in the

FRESH • TRAVEL

Road to Crown King. General Store.

well.The Crown King School (K-8) was established in 1914 and is one of the last one-room schoolhouses operating in Arizona. Five students are enrolled. The Crown King Volunteer Fire Department is a vital asset to the community. Many of the annual events hosted in Crown King raise funds for the CK fire department. Locals and cabin owners generously donate their time and

saloon is like stepping back in time — 1906, to be exact. Photos on the wall create a feel for what it was like to work and live in a mining town at the turn of the 20th century. Open seven days a week, guests will enjoy the great local atmosphere and friendly service at the CK Saloon. Locals share stories of the haunted brothel upstairs and tales of Pancho Villa. Inside the Saloon is MJ’s Café, serving great burgers and other American fare. The Mill restaurant is situated high above Main Street and serves lunch to hungry travelers on the weekends. No trip to Crown King is complete without a visit to the CK General Store. Built in 1904, the general store is home to the U.S. post oﬃce, the only gas pump in the community and the best homemade fudge. Lodging facilities in Crown King range from bed-andbreakfast suites to private cabins or a bunkhouse for large groups. Because Crown King is surrounded by the Prescott National Forest, there are plenty of campsites nearby as

money to CKFD. There is a single-lane concrete bridge, commonly referred as the Magic Bridge, as visitors transition from the high desert to the tall pines of Crown King. Not only does the landscape change, but as drivers cross the Magic Bridge into Crown King, they are transported to a time and place where folks are more friendly and the pace is much slower.

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Luxury properties are selling fast. Million-dollar homes are in high demand. This Desert Mountain property has an amazing golf course, mountain peaks and city light views. It has plenty of room to accommodate elderly parents or millennial children. (Special to North Valley Magazine)

Real Estate B

HOT SPOT

Homes are selling briskly in the North Valley By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski 14

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

UYAZRE founder Asher Cohen has done his research on North Valley ZIP codes, and he sees homes selling briskly. “When it comes to the North Valley, we’re seeing listings move very quickly,” Cohen says. “Homes for sale in this area stay on the market for an average of just 72 days before selling. Also, home prices are up more than $219,000, compared to December of 2019.” The housing market is looking strong for the Phoenix area in 2021. In fact, Realtor. com’s most recent forecast predicts home sales in the Valley will jump 11.4% over last year, which is the 11th largest expected increase among the top 100 metros in the United States. With that said, North Scottsdale, Carefree and Cave Creek are at the top of the list when it comes to sought-after Arizona locations. The combination of beautiful weather, prestigious restaurants and shopping, specialty education, golf courses, a plethora of hiking paths,

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This North Phoenix home sold within three days of hitting the market. It is in a North Valley community that is close to hiking trails, tennis courts, shopping centers and some of the best education facilities in the Valley. (Special to North Valley Magazine)

equestrian-friendly communities, a reasonable cost of living and now the ability to work from home continues to draw people from out of state to the area. “For all of those reasons, Downtown Phoenix dwellers also have their sights set on our northern ZIP codes because they want to break free from high-rise apartments and city living,” Cohen says. “North Valley is particularly appealing because many of the homes on the market offer spacious square footage and a decent chunk of land.” For those looking to buy or sell this year, many changes that have been implemented in the real estate industry because of coronavirus will stick around, such as virtual open houses, e-offers and remote closings. But there are a ton of other positive expectations for the Phoenix real estate market, including very low and affordable mortgage rates. Right now, the 30-year fixed rate is hovering around a 50-year low of 2.75%. Refinancing rates are also hovering around 2.45%, which makes the refinancing route a smart move depending on long-term goals. 16

“If you’re already a homeowner and finding ways to save money has become a priority during the coronavirus pandemic, you should consider refinancing, especially if your current interest rate is 3.5% or higher,” Cohen says. “Refinancing not only provides an easy way to lower your mortgage payments, but it also gives you the option to take cash out of your home to pay off highinterest debt like credit cards while keeping your monthly payment the same.” Another expectation for the Phoenix housing market is that inventory will stay sparse, which is good news for sellers. “Figures that were just released in January show inventory in the metro area was down 37% compared to this time last year,” Cohen says. Low inventory combined with low mortgage rates and an influx of people moving to the area is the perfect storm. There are only 480 single-family homes for sale in ZIP codes 85331, 85262, 85266, 85054, 85050 and 85255. “And to give you a better idea of how quickly homes in these areas are moving, 144 more homes were sold in those ZIP

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

codes in December of 2020 compared to December of 2019,” Cohen says. Because of this, offers will continue to be made sight unseen. Buyers have adapted to virtual tours, and many who are looking to relocate are comfortable making an offer without seeing the property in person in order to seal the deal, which creates a strong potential for bidding wars. “A nice profit could be on the horizon, but be sure to wait for the right offer,” Cohen says. “Some buyers still may try to hit you with a low number because they aren’t aware of the current climate, which is a seller’s market. So, if you’re not in a hurry to move, wait for an offer that gives you the most profit.” First-time homebuyers will remain a strong force in 2021 as well. While younger Gen-Z buyers are expected to play a growing role in the housing market, the largest group of millennials are now in their mid-30s. Additionally, the oldest millennials

are increasingly contributing to the tradeup market. This new wave of demand from renters looking to buy their first home is attributed to the low rental inventory. “It might sound crazy at first, but if you can hold on to your current home and rent it out, now is the time,” Cohen says. “Think about it. The average rental home in the Phoenix metro area goes for $2,000 a month and, in some neighborhoods, well over $2,500 a month. Why not consider this option when there are ways to use the equity in your current home to buy your next home without selling it?” Another trend that is expected to remain strong in 2021 is buyers will continue to put more than 20% down on a new home to avoid paying for mortgage insurance. “Buyers who throw a bunch of cash down will not only have lower mortgage payments and possibly lower interest rates, but sometimes an appraisal isn’t needed, which could save an average of $600,” Cohen says. With low inventory and high demand, gone are the days of selling for an offer below asking price. This Tatum Highlands home sold for $5,000 over asking in an area where the comps were hovering around $400,000. It sold for $515,000. (Special to North Valley Magazine)

Homebuyers are focused on the suburbs, because the burbs are where it’s at. Coronavirus and the wave of working from home has buyers seeking hot ticket items such as casitas or guest houses as designated kid zones, home offices and gyms or a place for extended family members to stay. “Sellers also see this as a positive when they’re reviewing multiple offers, which happens more often than not.” Lastly, new construction will continue to blow up. A shrinking supply of buildable lots is causing more homebuilders to focus in on Arizona’s raw acreage. Builders such as D.R. Horton, Pulte, Taylor Morrison and Shea Homes will keep building communities that generate interest before construction even starts. “Homebuyers are focused on the suburbs, because the burbs are where it’s at,” Cohen says. “Coronavirus and the wave of working from home has buyers seeking hot ticket items such as casitas or guest houses as designated kid zones, home offices and gyms or a place for extended family members to stay.” Priorities have changed in 2021 in response to COVID-19, and many buyers aren’t waiting for a return to normal. Instead, they’re anticipating a “new normal” in which they live, work and entertain and their home has become the true definition of a sanctuary. If the above expectations continue to stay strong, there is no anticipation of any sort of slowdown in the housing market. When buying or selling any sort of piece of property, it’s most important to work with a licensed real estate professional who understands your wants, needs and longterm goals to make the transition from one home to another as smooth as possible, Cohen says. The housing market in the Phoenix metro area is a fast-paced world, and it’s not going to slow down anytime soon, he says. NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

A Slam Dunk Ralph Marchetta watches Phoenix Suns Arena bounce into the 21st century

Ralph Marchetta says Phoenix Suns Arena’s pavilion is striking, with the state’s largest sports bar and living room-quality video screens in the 7,000-square-foot space. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

fter Ralph Marchetta graduated high school, he worked his way through ASU at Veterans Coliseum. He served as a parking attendant, a merchandise vendor and janitor. His life changed in 1992 when he was offered the chance to move with the Phoenix Suns to Downtown Phoenix. Thanks to that opportunity, he has witnessed the evolution of America West Arena to what is now known as Phoenix Suns Arena. The arena transformation began in 2020 as Project 201: PHX Reimagined, which brought the venue into the 21st century with infrastructure and technology updates that elevated the fan experience.

The $230 million renovation project happened thanks to a partnership between the Suns and the city of Phoenix. “It’s incredible from the standpoint that it is a completely new building inside in most ways,” says the Cave Creek resident. “Every seat in the building was replaced with brand-new seats. There’s a new scoreboard. There’s a new sound system, two new LED rings, new club spaces and new concession stands. Probably, the most impressive thing is — I would say — the entry into the building. The pavilion entry has been dramatically changed. It is pretty spectacular.” The pavilion, which once hid the seating area, is open for better crowd flow and with a view straight into the bowl. It’s alight

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with living room-quality video screens in the 7,000-square-foot space. When crowds return to Phoenix Suns Arena, they can partake in Arizona’s biggest sports bar. “There’s a lot more space on the concourses,” Marchetta says. “It’s just a completely different venue.”

Pandemic plan

The plan was for Phoenix Suns Arena to be closed for two summers, 2020 and 2021, Marchetta says. Crews planned to work from April 2019 to September 2019. With the COVID-19 pandemic, they started a month earlier on the front end. “We started in March and then we worked right up until December 1 and a little

All of the seats in the Phoenix Suns Arena bowl were replaced during the renovation. (Photo by Christy Radecic)

The Annexus Social Club members will enjoy valet parking and a private entrance upon arrival to Phoenix Suns Arena, akin to a prohibition-era speakeasy. (Photo by Christy Radecic)

beyond,” he says. “We were able to really get a lot of the work done this year. What ongoing work we have we’ll continue to do, and we won’t have to shut down the building this summer.” The players see new energy in the building, too, Marchetta says — especially thanks to the arena’s new lighting that gives the court a theater effect. That’s coupled with the new training facility at 44th Street and Camelback Road. “The new lighting is very focused on that court,” he says about Phoenix Suns Arena. “It’s pretty dramatic. To be honest, everybody in the organization feels that buzz about the entire Downtown. We’ve got, what feels like, a new arena. We really think that adds to it. “We’re thinking it would be fun to move

Downtown, in terms of having that urban lifestyle.”

Historical move

After graduating high school, Marchetta enrolled as a history major at ASU. Back in those says, he says, sports management classes weren’t options. “Now, pretty much every university has some kind of sports management degree,” he says. “It’s the hot thing. I’m teaching sports venue management at ASU. “I had a history degree, and starting out at the coliseum I loved sports and I loved music. I’m not an athlete or a museum. My career here worked out. I created my own program on the fly.” Marchetta went through his own

transformation, as he’s now the senior vice president ticket operations and general manager, sports and entertainment services. As general manager, Marchetta oversees all operations of the Phoenix Suns Arena. In addition to servicing professional sports teams including the Suns and the Phoenix Mercury, he books all events at the arena. Marchetta has booked hundreds of concerts, including Barbra Streisand, U2, Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones, Vicente Fernandez, Juan Gabriel and Andrea Bocelli. He says he has extensive relationships with Feld Entertainment (Disney on Ice and Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus), World Wrestling Entertainment and other family show and concert promoters. But his role goes beyond the arena. As a key asset to the community, Marchetta works with the leadership of the city of Phoenix, Phoenix City Council and Downtown Phoenix Partnership. In addition, he serves as a board member of the Phoenix Police Department Reserve Foundation. The organization has been great to work for, he says. “I’ve been really fortunate in terms of the people I’ve worked with,” Marchetta adds. “I love it, and after a while, I thought, ‘Why would I go anywhere else?’ “I love the city. I love the organization.The people I work with are a really important part of it. I had great mentors along the way. I’m so excited. Opening the arena in ’92 and seeing this transformation is really incredible. The hard part right now is not allowing fans in. Hopefully soon, we’ll be able to welcome people back in.” NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

Crystal Clear Kathleen Sabol’s jewelry reﬂects the Sonoran Desert By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Kathleen Sabol wears pieces from her Mila + Stevie collection. (Photo by Tim Sealy) 20

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athleen Sabol comes to the door of her parents’ Carefree Ranch home in North Scottsdale. The glamorous blonde is wearing subtle-yet-glistening jewelry — pieces she made herself. Sabol founded Mila + Stevie, a modern bohemian glam jewelry line she handcrafts herself. She mixes natural gemstones and metals to create dainty to statement pieces. The company is named after her fluffy golden retrievers — although Stevie was also inspired by Stevie Nicks — and it supports the ASPCA. “I always try to give back to the ASPCA and try to really get awareness out there about prevention of cruelty to animals,” she says. Creating jewelry for herself was, initially, a way of unwinding from her graduate school studies at the University of Florida. After graduation, she hoped to work for the FBI. “I was working on a master’s in political science,” she says. “I would be in class all day studying very analytical material, but I’ve always been a very creative person. “I was seeking a creative outlet to do when I wasn’t studying. I had some things at home, so I started tinkering and I made jewelry.” She made a bracelet with agate wrapped in wire for herself. Everywhere she went, she received comments about her pieces. “I said they couldn’t buy it because a store

didn’t exist,” she says with a laugh. “So, my dad said, ‘Hey, let’s try selling a couple and start a business.’ We started very small with just this one design and I had four colors. It’s slowly evolved into necklaces, earrings and bracelets.” High demand for her jewelry persuaded her to start Mila + Stevie Jewelry in 2016. When she graduated in 2018 from the University of Florida, she decided to do jewelry full time. One of the pieces Sabol frequently wears is the Olivia bracelet ($30), with a gold plate, an oval druzy stone and an adjustable toggle chain. “It’s my most popular style,” she says, adding that the agate cellphone holder ($23) is the No. 2 item. “The bracelet has an adjustable toggle chain, so it fits so many different size wrists. It makes a great gift for women of all ages. “I have a lot of women who buy them as a best friend gift. They buy one for themselves and for their best friend. It’s the adult version of the best friend necklace.” Sabol is inspired by the “incredible beauty of the Sonoran Desert.” She finds her stones at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Shows and from suppliers in Brazil, the United States and India. “It’s so cool to be able to see all these gems and minerals and lapidary materials from all over the world,” Sabol says. “It’s a great way to be educated about those types of materials.” The COVID-19 pandemic has hurt her business. She pivoted from selling at events to her website, which was revamped over the summer. Fortunately, folks have also reached out to her for custom pieces for life events like weddings.

Kathleen Sabol often switches out her jewelry patterns, like this one that was in her fall catalog. (Photo by Tim Sealy)

The Janis wirewrapped agate cuff statement bracelet sells for $75 on the Mila + Stevie website. (Photo by Tim Sealy)

“It’s really cool because it becomes more than just a particular product,” she says. “I had a woman reach out to me during COVID. She said, ‘Oh, my granddaughter graduated from high school in May. I feel really bad that she couldn’t have a normal graduation.’ “So, we worked together, and I helped her pick out something. That was a really nice way to memorialize a very unique high school graduation experience.” Besides online, her pieces are found at Wild Holly Gallery in Carefree, Charmed Avenue and Why Hello! Modern Home in Scottsdale, and Rusty Shack in Cave Creek.

Expressive

Born in Los Angeles, Sabol was raised in Florida and Arizona. Sabol began expressing herself through music, writing, theater and art from an early age. She loves music, especially Nicks, Cher, Tina Turner, Bob Seger and

Queen. Sabol started singing at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church in Scottsdale. She continued it with the Orlando Opera Company. “I started signing there in the fourth grade and just haven’t stopped,” she says of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. “I had a great music teacher there who really encouraged all of us to pursue music regardless of our levels.” Music was an organic choice for her, as she was surrounded by music growing up. Her father, Byron, plays the guitar and was a singer. Her mom, Joy, plays the piano and was a dancer when Sabol was younger. “I think music is an incredible art form that just gets into your bones,” Sabol says. “It’s so amazing. It just moves you in so many different ways and can recall memories and it’s so amazing.” Sabol’s mind is occupied with music and how to expand Mila + Stevie. She recently started creating and selling home accessories like agate coasters, which she calls “statement pieces.” Her hand-painted vases and pots are moving, too. She hopes to expand the staff beyond herself and her parents. She’s proud to have a family-run business, but her parents have encouraged her to “reach for the stars and shoot for her goals.” “I would love to be able to build the brand nationally and internationally and then be able to hire people,” she says. “I want to create a jewelry brand that’s based here in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area that people recognize. I want to get that name recognition and be able to hire really great people.”

Mila + Stevie milaandstevie.com NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

In the Weeds Proven Media’s Kim Prince elevates marijuana’s reputation By Sarah Donahue

im Prince always believed marijuana didn’t deserve the bad reputation it held in society. She saw the potential of working in an industry that was in its infancy. Prince combined her love for business with her love for the healing properties of the widely misunderstood plant, directing the focus of her public relations company, Proven Media, into the world of marijuana in 2014. Now that Proposition 207 passed in Arizona, legalizing the recreational use and possession of marijuana, the phones at Proven Media have been “extremely busy,” as so many were waiting for this day to come, she says. “I knew all along that cannabis wasn’t harmful,” says Prince, the firm’s chief executive officer and founder. “I have a passion for business and a passion for the plant. Cannabis allowed me to take my love of this plant that I knew was medicinal in nature and combine that with business.” The Proven Media is the agency of record for the Marijuana Industry Trade Association of Arizona.The public relations firm works with clients all over the country and world and is one of the top marketing firms for dispensaries, doctors as well as cannabis products. Proven Media works with large companies,

Kim Prince, the CEO and founder of Proven Media. Proven Media started in 2008 as a public relations ﬁrm that represented small Cave Creek and Carefree businesses. Prince pivoted its focus to the emerging medical marijuana industry in 2014. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

tech companies, privately held companies, publicly traded cannabis companies as well as investor relations in cannabis, she says. Originally from Minnesota, Prince started her business in 2008 in Carefree, where she has resided since 1997. Before Proven Media pivoted its focus to the marijuana industry, Prince worked with and represented a number of Carefree and Cave Creek small businesses to help them grow, she says. “(Proven Media) was started really to serve the community,” she says. The media firm also worked directly for the town of Carefree as well as Cave Creek promoting various events, she says. Prince was a former Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur

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Proven Media team members Dina Giovale, director of media relations, and President Neko Catanzaro with the CEO and founder of the public relations ﬁrm, Kim Prince, middle. (Photo courtesy Proven Media)

of the Year, according to the firm. Prince also served many of Cave Creek’s nonprofits and was able to watch them grow, she adds. “My heart is still in the community even though we work all across the globe,” Prince says. While working with small businesses in the North Valley, Prince says she kept seeing advertisements directing her toward a medical marijuana conference in Las Vegas in 2014. Prince decided to follow the signs, leading her to the marijuana industry, she says. “The most beautiful thing happened,” she says. “I ended up meeting some amazing businesspeople, and I walked away with my first clients from the conference and I never looked back.” Prince still works with one of those clients today, she adds. “It opened my whole world,” she says. “I was following my passion for business. I love business, I love marketing communications and I also love the plant.” Prince was able to combine all those aspects with a degree of professionalism she saw as a need in the business side of the marijuana industry, she says. “We really bring this professionalism to the table that’s expected in traditional business and we bring that to the cannabis industry, and it’s been very successful,” she says.This is the reason Proven Media’s phones ring incessantly now that Proposition 207 passed, she says. Proven Media represents some of the biggest name brands in Canada and Arizona, she says. She added that the firm also worked with “high-profile individuals” like the former president of Mexico, Vincente Fox, and his CannaMexico Trade Show, also working with former NFL players such as Ricky Williams, Kyle Turley and Marvin Washington. “I knew that the traditional labels that applied to people who use cannabis didn’t really apply,” she says. “There are so many successful people that use cannabis. I knew that the stigmas weren’t accurate.” With Proven Media, Prince has worked with the “creme de la creme of the industry,” she says, explaining how it’s been a “huge honor” to help Ivy League graduates from universities like Harvard, Cornell and Princeton with communications in a way that

makes them proud. “I just feel really grateful to work in this industry,” she says. “We’re getting our clients on the covers of national magazines.” “The story needs to be told about cannabis. We have a knack for knowing how to tell it and present it in a professional manner and how to package that story up so that the mainstream media and cannabis media can really understand the plant and the business and the people behind it. Marijuana has gone mainstream. We are going to dominate.” Prince and her team of eight public relations professionals have also worked with clients and companies across the country in places like San Diego, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Pittsburgh, Minnesota as well as Los Angeles, she says. “I have to pinch myself every day,” she says, adding how “lucky” she is to work in a “wonderful, emerging industry.” Over the years, Prince

Kim Prince, founder and CEO of Proven Media, with the former president of Mexico, Vicente Fox. Proven Media did public relations for Fox’s book tour in Arizona and for his CannaMexico event. (Photo courtesy Proven Media)

Former NFL running back Ricky Williams with the CEO and founder of Proven Media, Kim Prince. (Photo courtesy Proven Media)

has been invited to speak at panels across the country with some of the highest-profile women in cannabis, she says. Prince serves on the board of the Arizona Cannabis Chamber of Commerce. She was co-founder and co-chair of what used to be the Phoenix chapter of a national organization called Women Grow. Prince

and two other women had co-founded this group to “bring forth professionalism in the industry,” she says. Since then, Women Grow has discontinued its market leader program and no longer has chapters as part of its organization. However, Proven Media states that what was once Women Grow Phoenix was Arizona’s first business group for cannabis entrepreneurs. While women are making great headway in the “male-dominated” marijuana industry, holding positions on boards of directors as well as executive positions, “there’s still a long way to go,” she says. The reason Prince started studying cannabis is because her brother had a drug problem, she says. Prince also notices that many other people around her were abusing alcohol and prescription drugs or taking antidepressants and other powerful substances to try to ease their suffering. “Alcohol is very addictive. Cigarettes are extremely addictive. Prescription drugs, many of them are extremely addictive — you need a doctor’s help to get off of them.” What she found with her research was that “cannabis wasn’t addictive,” she says, adding that it’s a healing remedy. With Proven Media, Prince has been able to help companies overcome the negative stigma and help people, she says. “Slowly over the years, the stigma and the veil has been lifted,” she says. “I don’t ever want to take it for granted. I’m so honored to be able to do this work.” NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co. shoppers can try various selections at its High Street location. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Rebirth of Sonoran Desert Olive Oil enlightens drinks and food

Cool

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ole Randall and Jason Swenton of Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co. are getting creative with their balsamic vinegars by encouraging local restaurants and bars to use their products. “There are different things you can do with balsamics,” Randall says. “With cocktails and mocktails, it can be cool. Now, a lot of mixologists are using balsamic vinegars in their drinks.” He offers peach balsamic vinegar in club soda, for example.The store’s website and Instagram have recipes for margaritas, the Neapolitan herb balsamic bloody mary and Cascadian wild raspberry mojito. “You can do a club soda and vodka with a little bit of a nice fruitful white balsamic to make a really nice cocktail for the afternoon, especially here in this beautiful weather in Phoenix,” Randall says. The Americano in Scottsdale uses Sonoran Desert Olive Oil’s coconut white balsamic in its drink Versace on the Floor. “We want to make it versatile,” Randall says. “Some people just have white balsamic sitting in their cabinet and don’t know what to do with

Jason Swenton, left, and Cole Randall have two locations of Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co. — High Street and SanTan Village. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

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BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT A small selection of grocery items are available at the High Street location of Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

it.They only think about salads. We give them other ideas. You can put it on fruit salad, drinks and ice cream.” Of the flavored olive oils, Tuscan is the most popular. It is used for everyday cooking, as it “really enhances the flavor of whatever you’re cooking,” Swenton says. Sonoran Desert Olive Oil’s olives are not grown in Arizona, but various parts of the world. They partake in two crush runs a year — the summer and fall/winter runs. Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co. is a second career for Randall and Swenton. Randall owned a car rental company for 10 years, while Swenton’s day job is with Microsoft. Swenton and Randall were inspired to start the business by friends in Mexico. “They invited us up to their place to visit their stores,” Randall says about their friends’ three stores on Vancouver Island. “They’re very successful, and I thought it sounded like a good deal.” Randall quickly learned that some of the flavors in Canada work well on Vancouver Island, but not here and vice versa. “Their jalapeno white balsamic doesn’t do very well up there,” he says. “The spicier ones work well here.” When the two were pondering their marketing collateral, they decided to make the saguaro cactus their logo. “What embodies Arizona more than a beautiful cactus?” Swenton says. “We wanted to make sure that was part of our logo and 26

theme for opening the shop. We also wanted a clean, modern look, because most bottle shops have a more classic look to them. “We wanted the store to look like what customers might see in their house.” Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co. has two locations — one on High Street near Desert Ridge Marketplace, which opened two years ago, and Gilbert’s SanTan Village, which introduced itself in October. The latter location doesn’t have the food selections or the big tanks from which to try the products. Everything is prebottled on High Street, and samples are given from larger bottles. Randall says olive oils and balsamics are a passion. He enjoys helping customers find healthier choices for eating. Swenton adds that roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, go well with espresso dark balsamic or Neapolitan herb dark balsamic. Cinnamon pear pairs nicely with a fall apple crisp. The Mayo Clinic’s nurses and doctors stop by the High Street location to talk to Swenton and Randall about the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil. A tablespoon of olive oil, the Mayo Clinic’s staff told Swenton and Randall, will help with joint pain. “A tablespoon a day really can go a long way,” Swenton says. The High Street store has grocery items like Frontier Soups mixes and Pappardelle’s pastas, which come in flavors like lemon pepper, basil garlic, organic red lentil, garlic toasted onion, garlic chive and hatch green chile.

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“Pappardelle’s makes pasta in small batches, and they’re really, really good,” Swenton says. “Then we brought in Frontier Soups. Those are amazing. It looks like it doesn’t make much, but actually it makes a big pot of soup.” Olive Oil Skincare Company’s bathroom products, which range from bodywash to shampoo and conditioner, are for sale at High Street. Mesa-based Spero Chocolate is available as well in selections like Scottsdale Blonde, Mesa Mint and Sedona Red Rock Raspberry. “You’ll see them at the High Street Farmers Market,” Swenton says. “They make all their chocolate locally. A lot of their sales go directly back to youth sports, even during a weird year of COVID. They still make sure they’re taking care of the kids out there.” As for the pandemic, Sonoran Desert Olive Oil is struggling but hanging in there. “I’ve been open the entire time during this pandemic because people cook at home,” Randall says. “I do home deliveries. They don’t have to leave the house. We thought it was a nice gesture.”

Sonoran Desert Olive Oil Co. 2218 E. Williams Field Road, Suite 104, SanTan Village, Gilbert 5350 E. High Street, Suite 113, Phoenix 480-656-9076, sonorandesertoliveoil.com

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT Ben and Janae Peterson founded website design and digital marketing agency BPetersonDesign in Montrose, Colorado, in 2008 after running an online costuming business. After more than a decade of success, they expanded to Cave Creek. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

New Year, New Strategy Digital marketing agency suggests businesses rethink 2021 By Connor Dziawura

he business world is changing in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Cave Creek website design and digital marketing agency BPetersonDesign is recommending business owners adapt to the times with a new strategy for 2021. Husband-and-wife team Ben and Janae Peterson, the company’s president and vice president, respectively, have observed the growing shift toward online marketing, purchasing and virtual meetings throughout 2020, with website usage increasing. But while the rollout of several COVID-19 vaccines has begun for some demographics, Ben is quick to suggest that things aren’t about to return to business as usual.

“Honestly, whenever COVID blows over or whatever’s going to happen with all of this mess, the industry is not going to go back. It’s changed forever,” Ben explains. “There’s going to be a whole lot more online presence, there’s going to be a whole lot more working from home and remote work — I mean, that’s not going anywhere even once the ‘scare,’ if you will, goes away.” People who weren’t previously shopping online are now relying more on the internet, and they’re now realizing the benefits that come with it, he says. “Now there’s not going to be a negative side to jumping into the e-commerce world,” Ben adds, noting that the gap between e-commerce and brick-andmortar, mom-and-pop shops is closing.

“Whether it’s a pandemic or not, you’re always going to see a benefit from it and you’re always going to gain more traction because of it.” That’s where BPetersonDesign comes in. The company was founded in 2008 in Montrose, Colorado, by the Petersons, who had a background in online costume retail. Services offered include website design, social ad management, pay-perclick management, digital marketing and graphic design. While BPetersonDesign consults with businesses nationwide, Ben and Janae expanded to Cave Creek in November 2019, after success handling the marketing and website of an Anthem company operated by Janae’s sister attracted the

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT interest of other local businesses. Because it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, the company custom-tailors clients’ plans for them — based on things like short- and long-term goals as well as budget. But the clients have to be invested in the process. “(In this industry) we can have all the hopes and dreams in the world for their company, but if they’re not wanting it themselves, whether wanting it at all or whether they’re wanting it strong enough to put in the work, it’s not going to happen,” Ben emphasizes. “So it has to originate from them and their excitement, and we help them build what they’re wanting as opposed to building what we think they should want.” BPetersonDesign goes for transparency — and aims to build lifetime relationships. The idea, Ben says, is to keep clients in the know on results and monitor if strategy modifications are needed. A lack of attentiveness is a common downfall, he notes, citing small businesses that set up a website without ever changing or monitoring it. “They just assume because they have a

website that it’s helping them. They don’t go over analytics. They don’t know what it means. They don’t even know how to translate them,” he explains. “So that’s where we come in, that’s our forte, that’s our expertise, and that should be our job. We essentially become a team member for you, helping you with the digital world, explaining what it really means, what it’s doing, how we can change, how we can react, and essentially how it translates into dollars in your pocket.” Noting that Cave Creek is big on supporting local business, Janae says BPetersonDesign is looking to consult with those that still need help. “We want to make sure that they get into a package that they are 100% comfortable with, because not everybody works the same way; not everyone’s comfortable doing something. So, we want to make sure that whatever they get from us, they’re comfortable with, they’re happy with it, but we’re not going to throw them into something that’s really scary and intimidating,” Janae says, noting that BPetersonDesign specifically targets small businesses, so it isn’t the most expensive

company of its kind. “We don’t rope somebody into a marketing package for a year, even though it would behoove them to stay consistent,” Ben adds, saying packages are monthly. “Every business ebbs and flows. There’s always budget changes and marketing needs to change every single month.” That way, businesses aren’t stuck if their business is suffering — especially at a time like a pandemic, Janae says. “We genuinely want to help these small businesses,” she emphasizes. “We succeed when they succeed,” Ben chimes in, adding that the company doesn’t want to overstretch clients’ budgets and doesn’t profit off one-time sales. “Where we actually make money is building the relationship and growing with that client and then becoming a larger client as their business succeeds more. So that’s all we’ re interested in.”

BPetersonDesign 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Suite 109, Cave Creek 623-232-8056, bpetersondesign.com

R U O Y LIVE RPIECE E T S A M Life should be lived to the fullest, from exploring new interests to finding purpose and joy in the simple things. Live creatively.

Age fearlessly. Live colorfully.®

LMTN North Valley Magazine Feb/March 2021

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WHEELS • HOME

The Mercedes E-Series base price is $54,000. This upgraded AMG 63 S version maxes out at $138,000.

Extraordinary Rides 2021 Mercedes AMG E63 S sedan is worth the steep price tag

job. Carbon ceramic brakes will be $9,000, please. Larger 20-inch wheels are $1,500. How about $5,000 worth of carbon fiber trim? Story and photos by C.A. Haire An “air balance” system sprays perfume into the cabin to keep it he E-Class is a more popular model smelling sweet for $350. There are in the Mercedes lineup. Its base many other options on the window price of $54,000 is reasonable, sticker that are too long to list here, and the standard 255 horsepower but $137,790 is the total tab. engine provides excellent power Under the hood is a 4.0-liter A 4-liter V8 cranks a healthy 603 horsepower and economy. There will always be customers Biturbo V-8 engine, hooked to a giving a 0 to 60 miles per hour time of 3.3 who demand more, and the upgraded E-63 S nine-speed automatic gearbox, and seconds. Top speed is claimed to be 186 miles AMG version seen here delivers. all-wheel drive. Total output is a per hour for those who dare. Those who want more have to pay more massive 603 horsepower! The factory learning much from the owner’s manual, and, here, the starting fee is $107,000. Now claims a 0 to 60 time of 3.3 seconds, which which is also complicated. Just get in and let’s add $4,000 for the metallic blue paint we verified. The listed 186 mph top speed we press all the buttons for a few hours, then you did not, but it shouldn’t will get the hang of it. Also, the suggested be a problem for those tire pressures are extremely high and result who dare. In 700 miles in a very stiff ride quality, even with the of driving, we observed suspension set in the comfort mode. But this fuel economy of about is what it takes to transmit the horsepower to 18 mpg. that pavement. There are some Overall, this is a fantastic ride that makes disadvantages on this you king of the road. Passing slow pokes on AMG. One does not get the freeway is no problem, and even fun. Yet into a Mercedes and just the car is practical for daily commuting. Those drive off, as the controls The matte blue paint job looks attractive, but who can afford the steep price tag will be are complicated for this option adds $4,000 to the price tag. pleased with this German engineering. first-time users. Forget

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

SHOPPING • HOME

TREATS for

Sweets

Spread the love with unique gifts this Valentine’s Day By Claire Spinner

lthough some may not be able to see their significant other in person, there are plenty of ways to share the love of Valentine’s Day. During a year as unique as this one, nothing says appreciation like a thoughtful, interesting gift.To spark some seasonal joy, here are a few Valentine’s Day gifts sure to dazzle.

Well Told

Homeware and gift shore Well Told wants to help couples cement their love with their custom-etched map barware.The glasses,

glasses, pints, tumblers, cutting boards, mugs and coasters. Rocks glasses can also be custom designed to include text on the bottom or side of the glass. All these products are made in the United States with sustainability in mind. To give back, 10% of the proceeds are given to nonprofits. Prices start at $14 for smaller items like coasters, making this an affordable gift for anyone. Purchase: welltolddesign.com

Moxie Malas

For those who want to give a healing gift during these diﬃcult times, Moxie Malas is offering gemstone and crystal bracelets. For thousands of years, particular stones and crystals have been thought to connect people to themselves and the world around them, bringing about spiritual healing. Moxie Malas is spreading this sentiment by creating jewelry from healing crystals. Its new “love and light” collection has been designed to create calmness, love and acceptance. Check out the “I Am Enough” and “Heal My Heart” bracelets. Made exclusively in the United States, with highquality semiprecious gems, each bracelet can provide someone with the love they deserve. Prices vary, but average between $25 and $50, depending on the collection. Purchase: moxiemalas.com

A Girl Like Me

which are custom-designed to map U.S. cities, are a great way to rekindle memories of milestones as a couple.The custom barware even allows customers to mark a particular place on the map where they have shared an important moment, whether it be a first kiss or an engagement.The idea is inspired by one of Well Told’s mission of sharing personal stories through their products that inspire. The maps are etched on a variety of glasses and home products, like rocks glasses, wine 30

Celebrate the special women in your life with empowering, thank-you gifts. A Girl Like Me sells feminism-rooted mugs, journals, art prints and other small gifts.The website is perfect for girls and women of all ages, providing different sections for “girls,” “teens” and “ladies.”The items typically feature artwork and quotes meant to inspire women to be their best selves and to blossom knowing that they are as capable as their male counterparts. Some of their best-selling art prints feature women with interests that are usually associated with men, like hiking and lifting weights.They also feature women in powerful positions, such as doctors. A Girl

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Moxie Malas

Like Me wants to send the message that women can find their voice and shine. Because of the array of products available, prices vary, but small items such as mugs and journals can be purchased for less than $25. Purchase: agirllikemeart.com

Red Chocolate

No Valentine’s Day would be complete without chocolate. This Valentine’s, you can show appreciation for loved ones with a treat that is satisfying and healthy. Red Chocolate offers three chocolate products, all which can be consumed without the usual guilty feeling. That’s because Red, created in Europe by European Master Chocolatiers, has 50% fewer calories than the average chocolate bar, no added sugar, 30% less fat and is also keto and Weight Watchers friendly. The options are full chocolate bars; grab-n-go bars; and pralines in ﬂavors like dark and milk chocolate, orange, almond, hazelnut and macadamia. The sweet treats can be shipped from its website or found in Valley stores like Safeway, Albertsons and Walmart. With prices under $15, Red is the perfect budget gift for your special someone, because we could all use a little sweetness these days. Purchase: red-chocolate.com

TASTE • DINE

Brian Johnson, who owns Blue Agave Mexican Cantina, says his most popular dish is the ultimate chimichanga ﬁlled with slow-roasted pork, cilantro rice, pinto beans and mixed cheese. Dubbed “very spicy,” the entrée ($15.99) is smothered with green chili sauce, pico de gallo, baja cream sauce, jalapeno cream sauce, chipotle puree, guacamole and sour cream. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

The Right Move Blue Agave jumps the COVID-19 hurdles By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

lue Agave Mexican Cantina owner Brian Johnson was excited to have a day like January 21. A socially distanced group of diners “filled” — albeit at 50% capacity — the 14-yearold restaurant. “Times are tough here and there,” Johnson says. “When COVID first hit, it was challenging.Thank God I’m a chef by trade and my partner in the restaurant is, too. We jumped in the kitchen and cooked every day for two months.

“We kept one or two cooks, and all of our employees came back except one or two — and that was their choice. We invited everyone back and needed them. It shows they like working here.” A 1997 Scottsdale Culinary Institute graduate, Johnson has had his hands in French, Italian and Chinese cuisine. When the Chinese concept closed, he realized he was tired of the corporate world. Blue Agave Mexican Cantina was the perfect fit.

“We bought this off the previous owner,” Johnson says. “We liked the feel of the place and its location. We decided to give it a shot. We renovated the inside, redid the menus and the bar over time.” The “shot” was successful. Affordable with large portions, Blue Agave Mexican Cantina has an extensive menu broken into appetizers, tacos, Mexican “flare,” salad/soups/wraps, agave creations and enchiladas. The most popular dish, Johnson says, is the ultimate chimichanga filled with slowroasted pork, cilantro rice, pinto beans and mixed cheese. Dubbed “very spicy,” the entrée ($15.99) is smothered with green chili sauce, pico de gallo, baja cream sauce, jalapeno cream sauce, chipotle puree, guacamole and sour cream. Fish tacos take a close second, with a choice of grilled or flash-fried fish, sliced avocado, pico de gallo, red cabbage and chipotle mayo Oaxaca dipping sauce ($13.49). Spicy cholula chicken salad with a lettuce mix, mixed cheeses, pico de gallo, crispy fried chicken, spicy cholula sauce and chipotle ranch ($12.99) is another standout dish. Those who eschew Mexican food may try the border burger — a 1/2-pound Black Angus burger with poblano pepper crispy bacon, sliced tomato and avocado, American cheese and chipotle mayo ($11.99) — or the carne asada pizza ($13.99). “We have different dishes on our menu,” Johnson says. “You can get a hamburger. You can get pasta. You name it. We try to keep it broad so people who come here have a choice if they don’t necessarily like Mexican.”

Pleasant surprise

Johnson says the COVID-19 pandemic posed a pleasant surprise for him. “I struggled for three or four months, but we

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

TASTE • DINE Since Brian Johnson bought Blue Agave Mexican Cantina 14 years ago, he has renovated the inside, including the bar, and overhauled the menu. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

were also over sales from last year.That has to do with catering.” He also attributes that to taking care of his people, and his passion for food and the hospitality industry. “If not, you’ll just get eaten up,” he says — no pun intended.There is so much going on, with different personalities. You have to be able to interact with different personalities and different kinds of people and be able to take care of them, make them feel comfortable, make them want to come in and return.” Food has kept Johnson inspired. “I just love food and I love cooking,” Johnson says. “I’ve done this my whole life.That’s why I got out of college. I was studying business.” He followed his passion all the way to Arizona, to Scottsdale Culinary Institute — and he loved it, just as expected. “I actually wish I would have went a little earlier, but sometimes it takes a while to figure out what you really want to do.”

Blue Agave Mexican Cantina 7000 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix 480-419-6375, blueagavemexicancantina.com Kitchen hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday 32

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Blue Agave Mexican Cantina has been a staple near the Mayo Clinic for about 14 years.

TASTE • DINE

Twist

Bistro & Gallery Where art and food come together By Sarah Haber

t 10 years old, Larry Shore sat in the kitchen and watched eagerly as his mother prepared dinner. The kitchen was a beautiful mess with flour dusting the countertops, spoons scattered and an assortment of vegetables laying across the cutting board. By the stove, the dough was laid out ready to be kneaded. “Larry, why don’t you pretend this dough is a bully and help me make dinner,” his mother said, enticing him to partake in that evening’s meal preparation. Larry rushed over and began to push his palms into the dough. In that instant, he knew cooking was in his future. Fresh grilled dayboat scallops feature Meyer lemon grapefruit, vinaigrette and calabrian chiles and fennel salad ($16).

Larry and Sandy Shore opened Twist Bistro & Gallery in North Scottsdale. The Shores feel art and food should coexist. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

He loved how his mother made cooking a fun game, and he never wanted it to end. From that moment on, he told everyone he wanted to be a “cooker man” when he grew up. Years later, Larry is living out his dream. His culinary career has taken him all across the country working for and owning various restaurants. He and his wife, Sandy, opened their own restaurant, Cedar 65 Bistro and Gallery, in Evergreen, Colorado. Both of them loved having the freedom to create and serve in their own way. Four years later, the couple returned to Arizona and opened

Twist Bistro & Gallery in North Scottsdale. This unique restaurant and art gallery serves locally sourced Mediterranean cuisine with the couple’s own special flavor. “We want everyone in our restaurant to feel special and be served exotic food without intimidation or arrogance,” Larry says. His goal as executive chef is to take care of every person who walks through the door. Sandy is an artist with an eye for pieces that elicit emotion. Her role at Twist Bistro & Gallery is selecting new pieces from local artists every three months to display in the restaurant. She follows a theme and gives local artists the opportunity to exhibit their work, while adding to the overall ambiance of the restaurant. “Art is a feast for the eyes, and the food is a feast for the rest of the senses,” Larry says. To elevate the dining experience, the Shores have created a place where art and food flow NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

TASTE • DINE

Larry and Sandy Shore want their food to match the ambiance of Twist Bistro & Gallery on North Scottsdale Road.

together, making the experience of dining creative, special and fun. The theme is peace. Sandy chooses pieces that emulate current events and give customers a relaxing setting when they come in. “I always want to get the right pieces and put them together so that it is a cohesive unit,” Sandy says. When the couple went on their first date, they agreed from the start that it is frustrating to see people in the creative space who don’t let artists do their job. Larry says most people opening restaurants “don’t know what they are doing or don’t get it.” The Shores feel art and food should coexist — one would not make sense without the other. From then on, they shared the goal of one day owning a restaurant where they could connect their passions. In Scottsdale, it is hard to find a restaurant that is not the typical happy-hour Mexican cuisine type of eatery. The Shores’ goal was to introduce upscale cuisine in a way that is not scary. Even better, their prices are fair and competitive to remove any “stuffiness” that comes with expensive dining. All of the food is sourced locally and made from scratch. The menu changes every three months to reflect the season and to explore customers’ palates. “People look forward to the changes we make. It’s like a new restaurant every few months between the new art and new food,” Larry says. 34

Twist Bistro & Gallery’s patio keeps patrons safe while eating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The menu is highly “chef driven,” Larry says, while still being pleasing to the average “foodie.” For example, the ingredients in this dish Turkish flatbread pizza ($14) have ground lamb, tomato, feta, green onion and cherry tomatoes cooked in a way that blend and expand the tastebuds to something delicious and out of the ordinary. He understands consumers can be intimidated about trying something so exotic, so he introduces the flavoring in an easy format — a flatbread pizza. The most popular dish on the menu is the shrimp and sausage diablo, with spicy Italian sausage, grilled gulf shrimp, fresh basil, asparagus, green olives, tomato confit and organic three-cheese polenta ($25). The couple say their customers love the feeling of walking into Twist and knowing that they are somewhere special. Twist Bistro & Gallery only opened in May but has already built a large customer base.

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

“There is a good percentage of people out there who want something different, good and healthy,” Larry says. The husband-and-wife duo encourage people to switch up their food experience and give chef-driven food “a shot.”The restaurant’s menu is different but still comfortable. “We want our food to match what is put on the walls and vice versa,” Sandy says. Between the stunning artwork mindfully displayed, the lingering smell of spices, and the “ambassadorlike” servers, it is clear to everyone who walks in the door that Twist Bistro and Gallery is somewhere special. Twist Bistro & Gallery 32409 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 107, Scottsdale 480-912-1459 twist-bistro.com

TASTE • DINE

Hula’s co-owner Dana Mule says the cocktaildriven concept has drinks like Hula’s Painkiller (Appleton’s gold rum, coconut, pineapple and orange juice, $9); Dr. Funk (coconut rum, vodka, crème de banana, pineapple and orange juice, $9); and Tiki Bastard (gin, bourbon, pomegranate syrup, lime juice, cock ‘n’ bull ginger brew, $9). (Photo by Chadwick Fowler)

Midcentury Cool Hula’s owner goes from touring to tikis By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ana Mule traveled the world with New Kids on the Block providing security for singer Jonathan Knight. Screaming girls, autograph hounds and concerts filled his days. When he met his wife, he quit traveling. So, he, in time, opened a restaurant — Hula’s Modern Tiki. “The only thing more insane with more hours than the restaurant business is the event business,” Mule says with a laugh. “The entertainment business has no hours. There’s no 9 to 5. It’s every holiday, every weekend, every night. Going from working 90 hours a week to 75 is a reprieve.” The first Hula’s opened on Central Avenue in September 2009 — right when the economy collapsed and fell apart. “We thought, ‘Alright. We can stop or we can just roll the dice and see what happens,’” he says.

It worked out well for him. He’s opened three restaurants, including the location on High Street — his favorite. “I really like the way this one turned out,” he says. Hula’s Modern Tiki explores Polynesia with dishes like bali hai barbecue ribs, served with mango barbecue sauce, sweet potato fries The Loco Moco is a Hawaiian specialty: burger patty over rice and covered in succulent brown mushroom gravy and and slaw ($13/$20); island-style sunny side up eggs ($12). (Photo by Chadwick Fowler) poke with raw ahi, soy sauce, sesame oil, avocado, onions, my favorite dish and one of our best-selling macadamia nuts and wonton chips ($13); dishes, for that matter.” and the Loco Moco, a burger patty and rice, Mule doesn’t take credit for the concept. covered in brown mushroom gravy and sunny Instead, it came from Hula Island Grill in side up eggs ($12). Monterrey, California. One day, on a whim, he approached the owners, Chris and Craig “Then we have other fusion dishes that my Delaney. business partner, Craig (Delaney), picked up “I was in there one night,” he recalls. “I had from his years of living in Hawaii,” he says. “I met my wife, and I knew that I couldn’t be like the spicy Thai chicken bowl. It’s probably NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021

TASTE • DINE on the road 310 days a year anymore. I was trying to figure out what I was going to do with the rest of my life. I thought, ‘I should ask these guys — whom I’ve never met — to come to Phoenix and open a restaurant with me.’ I didn’t have any restaurant experience. It seemed like a great idea, though.” Mule eventually became friends with the owners. Three years and seven months after he met them, he opened the doors to Hula’s Modern Tiki. “I am a firm believer that if you want to do something in this country, you can do it,” he says. “I’m a living example of that. They shouldn’t have even given me the time of day. “This concept is slightly different than the one in Monterrey,” he says. “This is a locally owned business, and this is more urban and slick.” A McCormick Ranch resident, Mule keeps the menu at Hula’s consistent. “I go to specific restaurants because there are things there that I like,” he says. “Not that I won’t try other things, but I want what I crave. I don’t want to go in a restaurant and discover the thing I love the most is gone. So, we tend to leave it relatively consistent. It’s a big menu. “I think when you have that one-page menu — which has become kind of hip lately — the purpose of that is to rotate it and make it different all the time.

Hula’s is a cocktail-driven concept that puts just as much time into presentation as it does taste. (Photo by Chadwick Fowler)

anyone threw you out of a concert, the event staff guys took care of it. Those guys worked for me. “I still miss certain aspects of that.” He’s remained friends with Knight, with whom he has a lot in common. “Even though I was the bodyguard and he was the performer, we went through the same things together,” he says. “It’s nice to be able to talk to someone about something we shared 30 years ago — particularly if you’re in a group of other people. We can tell them what it was like. He and I both know what it was like.” Protecting stars Mule says it wasn’t nerve-wracking to enter Mule toured with New Kids on the Block a new field. After all, he’s witnessed the worst from 1990 to 1993, during the peak of the in people through his previous career. group’s career. His resume also included a stint “There’s nothing scarier than having protecting Duff McKagan of Guns ’N Roses Deftones call the crowd out,” he says. during the recording of “Use Your Illusion.” “I did a lot locally, too,” he says. “If “It became a thing where (fans) would take over the concession stands and pull anything burnable out of the concession stands and build bonfires on the lawn and GA section. Once you’ve been through that, this business seems relatively sedate.” Hula’s is like traveling out of the country, without doing so, Mule says. Chris Delaney is the “design mind” behind Hula’s, Mule says. “It’s like getting away The four salads — spicy shrimp, Cajun ahi, mango somewhere without chicken and Asian tofu house salad — are all served going anywhere, which with crispy wonton chips. (Photo by Chadwick Fowler) is what I think has been 36

FEBRUARY 2021 | MARCH 2021 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

part of the appeal for us over the last eight or nine months,” Mule says. “A lot of people aren’t flying. You can’t go to Hawaii. You can’t go anywhere. You can come to Hula’s for a couple hours. If you close your eyes and you have enough drinks, it’s like you’re somewhere else, but you really didn’t have to leave town to do it.” Besides food, Hula’s is heavy on cocktails like Hula’s Painkiller (Appleton’s gold rum, coconut, pineapple and orange juice, $9); Dr. Funk (coconut rum, vodka, crème de banana, pineapple and orange juice, $9); and Tiki Bastard (gin, bourbon, pomegranate syrup, lime juice, cock ’n’ bull ginger brew, $9). “We’re a very cocktail-driven concept,” says Mule, who is planning to expand his brand. “I think the benefit of doing that is having a wide variety of things for people to drink, to enjoy.” The vibe is important to Mule as well. Besides the Polynesian theme, Hula’s exudes midcentury cool. “I like having grown up when I did, but if I had to pick another time to grow up, it would have been in the ’60s,” Mule says. “I would have been in a black suit and a thin tie, hanging out with the Rat Pack in Vegas in 1960. “I think this concept brings it all back. It has a very midcentury feel to it, for sure, which is one of the reasons I’ve always embraced it and really enjoy it.” Hula’s Modern Tiki 5450 E. High Street, Suite 101, Phoenix 5114 N. Seventh Street, Phoenix 7213 E. First Avenue, Scottsdale hulasmoderntiki.com

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