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B U S I N E S S
C O M M U N I T Y
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THE
GOLF ISSUE
‘Pure Sex Appeal’ Bob Parsons spoils golfers with PXG clubs
Philanthropic Playmaker Jared Woolsey is teaching hockey one step at a time
The Economy of Golf
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Contents February
23
16
33 T H E
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C O M M U N I T Y
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6 Rotary Club News Nonprofit keeps busy with a number of keynotes
9 Steady Increase
Scottsdale Community College bucks enrollment dip
10 Christopher Nicosia
Beloved chef roars back with Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen
21 Modest About Success
THE
GOLF
Golf has been largely unaffected by pandemic
ISSUE
‘Pure Sex Appeal’
26 Creating Successful People Life coach Tracey Martin isn’t in it to be liked
Bob Parsons spoils golfers with PXG clubs
Philanthropic Playmaker
33 The Right Move
Blue Agave jumps the COVID-19 hurdles
Jared Woolsey is teaching hockey one step at a time
14 Welcome to Nirvana
On the cover:
St. Helena is an oasis of food, wine and redwoods
16 ‘Pure Sex Appeal’ Bob Parsons spoils golfers with the slick PXG clubs
23 A Powerful Voice
Workshop teaches women and girls self-defense strategies
The Economy of Golf
Bob Parsons of Parsons Xtreme Golf (Special to Scottsdale Airpark News)
35
What's Cooking?
Jared Woosley is teaching hockey one step at a time
37
Remember When
41
Business Horoscopes
31 Spicing Things Up
42
Business Directory
44
Scottsdale Airpark Map
28 Philanthropic Playmaker
Z’Tejas is satisfying fans’ cravings in Scottsdale
2 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / FEBRUARY 2021
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AIRPARK RotaryNews
Rotary Club News Nonprofit keeps busy with a number of keynotes By Dr. Honora Norton
The Rotary Club of Scottsdale sees a plethora of guest speakers during recent meetings
T
he Rotary Club of Scottsdale welcomed Rotarian Rachel Sacco, president and chief executive officer of Experience Scottsdale, as its keynote speaker at its recent hybrid meeting held via Zoom and an on-site luncheon meeting at The McCormick Scottsdale. Sacco joined the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce in 1986 to lead its tourism division, which became the convention and visitors bureau in 1987. In 2001, Experience Scottsdale was formed to become a stand-alone nonprofit with Sacco as its first president and CEO. Sacco has been inducted into Scottsdale History Hall of Fame, the ASU College of Public Programs’ Alumni Chapter Hall of Fame, the Arizona Governor’s Tourism Hall of Fame and the Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame. She has been named one of the “50 Most Influential Women” by Arizona Business Magazine, and Corporate & Incentive Travel Magazine has recognized her as one of the most successful women leading destination offices in the United States. Sacco has been recognized for her community service and leadership in the city, as she was awarded the Rotary Club of Scottsdale’s Corporate Club Member Service Above Self Award and Scottsdale Leadership’s Drinkwater Leadership Award. Sacco is a national board member for the U.S. Travel Association and sits on the Arizona Lodging & Tourism Associations executive committee. During her talk, Sacco noted that Experience Scottsdale has a vision to: Establish Scottsdale as a year-round luxury travel destination for meetings, events and leisure travel. Build a team of productive, positive
people who are passionate about Scottsdale, its businesses, its residents and its visitors. Execute business strategies that work in tandem with the city of Scottsdale and town of Paradise Valley leaders and staff along with more than 400 hospitality and tourism partners to grow the tourism industry, to administer private and public-sector revenue via membership dues, bed-tax collection and state of Arizona, Prop. 302 dollars. Create a “Scottsdale brand” that invites those who visit Scottsdale to make return visits, start businesses, go to college, rent/ purchase vacation homes, live and/or work in Scottsdale. Per Sacco during 2019, 11 million people visited Scottsdale, resulting in $3.3 billion economic impact, $54.7 million in tax col-
11 million people visited Scottsdale resulting in $3.3 billion economic impact, $54.7 million in tax collections and 27,000 jobs directly attributable to tourism. lections and 27,000 jobs directly attributable to tourism. The tax collection revenue supports Scottsdale’s fire, police and public services and has contributed to many city projects, such as Museum of the West and Scottsdale Stadium upgrades. Sacco provided attendees with an overview of tourism numbers: Resort 2019-20 performance and 2020-21 forecast comparisons of occupancy levels, daily rates and room revenues. Average domestic leisure visitor statistics: 50.3 years old average age; 3.5 nights average length of stay; $272 average per person expenditures; 73% overnight stays
6 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / FEBRUARY 2021
Rachel Sacco, president and chief executive officer of Experience Scottsdale in a hotel/resort/motel/B&B; and 43% visiting friends/relatives. Average luxury visitor statistics: 53.5 years old median age; $246,900 median household income; 2.5 nights average length of stay; $628 average daily onproperty expenditures and 53% visited the city previously. The top U.S. revenue-producing markets include Chicago, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Seattle, Dallas, Minneapolis, Boston, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and Detroit. 1.7 million international visitors came to Scottsdale in 2019: 3.8 million Mexican, close to 1 million Canadian, 133,000-plus Germany, 124,000-plus U.K. and 108,000plus France. Sacco noted the Scottsdale tourism and hospitality community has developed a recovery plan and is following stringent public health practices to minimize the risk of COVID-19 and help ensure safety, cleanliness, distancing, masking, sanitation and enjoyment. It is expected that Scottsdale tourism will achieve full recovery by 2023-24. Club President Richard Signeski welcomed new members/Rotarians Jason Stage and Allen Schneider. Additionally, Rotarians PJ Wolff and JD Mowlds presented plans for the club’s upcoming nine-hole golf afternoon socials/fundraisers. Info: experiencescottsdale.com …continues on page 8
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AIRPARK RotaryNews …continued from page 6 Club welcomes Phoenix Division’s FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Craig Moringiello via Zoom and at the Scottsdale McCormick. Since 2002, Moringiello has participated in various FBI counterterrorism, counterintelligence and espionage investigations throughout the United States. When introducing Moringiello, RCS Club President Richard Signeski noted the guest spent 10 years as a naval flight officer. Previously, he earned a bachelor’s degree from U.S. Naval Academy and a Master of Aeronautical Science from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Per a quote from the U.S. Department of Defense, Moringiello states, “Interstate strategic competition, not terrorism, is now the primary concern in U. S. National Security.” The FBI’s Counterintelligence Strategy’s mission is to defeat hostile activities targeting the United States. Moringiello discussed foreign government collection methods that countries, including the Chinese government, use to achieve their strategic goals to become a comprehensive national power, create an innovation-driven economic system,
>
“Interstate strategic competition, not terrorism, is now the primary concern in U. S. National Security.” and modernize their military. Some of the methods employed by foreign governments include the following: Talent recruitment programs: Some countries seek to exploit America’s openness to advance their own national interests and have recruitment plans which incentivize individuals engaged in research and development in the United States to transmit the knowledge and research they gain here to their country in exchange for salaries, research funding, lab space and other incentives. Countries unfairly use the American research and expertise obtained for their own economic and military gain. Nontraditional collector: Using stu dents, researchers and business insiders
COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL
to illicitly obtain valuable intellectual property. Utilizing science and technology investments, mergers and acquisitions and front companies as well as a wide variety of security services, legal and regulatory enforcements, joint ventures and research partnerships. Moringiello also addressed: Specific to FBI Phoenix: Counterterrorism, counterintelligence (espionage, theft of trade secrets, counterproliferation, foreign agents and critical infrastructure), cybercriminal and national activities, and crisis response. The annual cost to the U.S. economy of counterfeit goods, pirated software and theft of trade secrets is $225 billion to $600 billion. The initiatives of China’s long-term strategic plan to address agriculture, aviation and aerospace, biotechnology and advanced medical equipment, electrical power, high-end robotics, information technology, maritime engineering, new energy automotive technology, new materials and composites and rail transportation. Info: fbi.gov or scottsdalerotary.org
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AIRPARK Buzz
Steady Increase Scottsdale Community College bucks enrollment dip
B
By Wayne Schutsky ucking a nationwide trend, Scottsdale Community College has a positive enrollment outlook in spite of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Heading into the spring 2021 semester, seven of the 10 community colleges in the Maricopa County Community College District anticipated enrollment loss compared to spring 2020, according to information presented to the governing board at a recent meeting. SCC was one of just two colleges, along with Rio Salado and Gateway, anticipating an enrollment gain. According to information presented at the meeting, SCC was on track to increase enrollment by 7.7% in spring 2021. Cumulatively, the Maricopa County Community College District was tracking for an overall enrollment decline of 15.5% in the spring. That follows a trend that has seen community colleges across the country struggle to keep students enrolled during the pandemic. Nationally, overall community enrollment dropped 9.5%, with some schools seeing declines of up to 30%, according to data presented at the meeting. Those enrollment declines were likely exacerbated by the economic fallout of the pandemic that put additional financial strain on students. “It isn’t always the cost of college; it’s the cost of life that keeps our students from continuing with us in succeeding,” says Dr. Karla Fisher, district provost of the Maricopa County Community College District. SCC was able to buck the downward enrollment trend by implementing changes to increase options and flexibility for students, interim SCC President Chris Haines says. She told the board that efforts to expand the college’s eight-week course offerings have been a cornerstone of that effort. Since taking over SCC in 2018, Haines has advocated for use of eight-week courses over traditional 16-week schedules as a tool to combat enrollment declines. “Research shows that students drop out due to the challenges of life,” Haines says. “The shorter eight-week timeframe allows students the ability to focus and complete the class while still managing personal issues, work and life. “ SCC was already in the process of integrating eight-week classes into its course offerings prior to the emergence of COVID-19, but the pandemic accelerated that schedule. In fall 2019, approximately 15% of the college’s courses were delivered in eight weeks. By fall 2020, that number rose to 40% — and the college is anticipating a similar level this spring. Haines says 78% of students in the traditional online eight weeks passed their classes in fall 2020, up from 73% in fall 2019, and students in eight-week courses tended to take more credit hours. “(About) 75% of SCC students are part-time, so many are working, managing children and more, along with all the uncertainty of COVID and being remote and quarantined life,” Haines says. “Therefore, it’s more reasonable to complete a class during eight weeks vs. the traditional 16 weeks of the semester.”
Haines says SCC also took steps to improve students’ experience online, which became especially important after most classes moved online in the wake of the pandemic. Scottsdale Community SCC also launched the Online College interim President Learning Center last year to Chris Haines says an effort provide support for students to increase eight-week and received a 2020 Excellence course offerings helped the Award from the National Insti- college stave off enrollment tute for Staff and Organizational declines during the panDevelopment for work done in demic. (Photo courtesy preparing for the accreditation Scottsdale Community College) of its online programs. Nearly the college’s entire residential faculty took training focuses on improving students’ online experience, and 55 participated in a boot camp over the summer “aimed at instructional design for alternative course delivery and modality,” Haines says.
FEBRUARY 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /
9
MEET YourAirparkNeighbor
r e h p o t Chris a i s o c i N Beloved chef roars back with Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen
G
By Alison Bailin Batz rowing up in Chicago, Christopher Nicosia’s Italian family were foodies before the term existed. “We traveled extensively, and I had the good fortune to taste food from around the globe from a very young age,” Nicosia says. In addition to this, during summer breaks in high school, he also worked at a family friend’s restaurant in Cape Cod, putting on clambakes and food-focused beach parties. That led to spending his college years catering on the side. Still, the lauded Scottsdale chef and Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame inductee didn’t become a chef straight out of school. “After college I took a sales job — and hated it,” Nicosia says. “A year into it, when my dad could see cooking was my passion, he asked me where in the world I wanted to seek my culinary education and told me to book a plane ticket the next day.” Nicosia chose the Scottsdale Culinary Institute in 1996. During the next several years, Nicosia honed his craft at Lon’s at the Hermosa Inn and Desert Mountain before joining long-time North Valley icon Sassi as executive chef in 2010. For eight years, Nicosia slowly and flavorfully built Sassi’s reputation into one of the most authentic Italian restaurants in the Southwest. “We went so far as to fly in olive oil direct from Italy and a specialty mozzarella that comes from the actual water buffalo of the
The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen chef Christopher Nicosia cooks in his kitchen. (Photo courtesy Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen)
Mediterranean, the only breed of its kind in Italy,” Nicosia says. When not manning the kitchen at Sassi, Nicosia spent what little downtime he had becoming an avid hunter and fisherman. He’s been known to cook up Guiney fowl in the middle of a field in South Africa, and to prepare fish freshly caught while still on the boat in the middle of the ocean. “I also, of course, started my beloved family,” Nicosia says. Unfortunately, in 2018, Sassi served its last meal. For a spell, many in the community worried they might never indulge
10 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / FEBRUARY 2021
in Nicosia’s delicacies again. That is, until word started spreading about The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen last year, and Nicosia potentially being part of the new restaurant concept. Thankfully the rumors were true, and when the restaurant opened in the fall of 2020, Nicosia made his return to the Scottsdale culinary community with the new venue. “The word ‘craft’ is used a lot these days. There is craft beer, craft cocktails, craft food and the list goes on,” Nicosia says. …continues on page 12
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11
MEET YourAirparkNeighbor
A peek at Christopher Nicosia’s newest project, The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen in Scottsdale. (Photo courtesy Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen)
…continued from page 10 “The word is derived from craeft in Old English and essentially means strength and skilling in planning, making and executing something.” At his new venue, according to Nicosia, they use it to describe their approach to food and drink, but also added the word in homage to the Old English usage and to honor one man. The man’s name is Victor Ebel. The hardworking and skilled farmer and woodworker loved his family, the land and working skillfully with his hands. He also happens to be the grandfather of one of Nicosia’s business partners in the venture. When Ebel died, the family even put “craftsman” on his headstone. “His memory inspires everything we do at The Craftsman, from our ‘come as you are’ attitude to our use of farm fresh ingredients and even our design, which — of course — has thoughtful touches of wood throughout,” Nicosia says. Every menu item, from starters to entrees, is prepared from scratch daily using locally sourced ingredients from local vendors. Nicosia’s approach is to pair quality with creativity and features items such as housemade lamb belly sausage flatbread, beet caprese salad with farro and wood oven-roasted desert branzino. Select entrees and desserts will be infused with in-house distilled spirits and craft beers as well. “We also feature our own line of distilled spirits, including vodka, gin, rum, barrel-
Just a sampling of dishes folks can expect from Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen chef Christopher Nicosia. (Photo courtesy Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen)
aged amaro, bourbon and coffee liqueur,” Nicosia says. Bottles of The Craftsman Distillers spirits will be available for sampling at the 6,357-square-foot venue, as well as to purchase and take home. In addition to spirit sampling, the smallbatch liquors and liqueurs are used as the base ingredients in most of The Craftsman’s signature cocktails. Among the standouts are Dry Heat using Craftsman vodka, passion fruit puree, house jalapeno simple syrup,
12 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / FEBRUARY 2021
cilantro and lime; Blood Choco Negroni, made with Craftsman gin, Cacao Campari, Cocchi Vermouth Di Torino and blood orange; and Gingerly with Craftsman rum, Pajarote ginger, candied ginger, lime juice and house simple syrup.
The Craftsman Cocktails + Kitchen Hayden Peak Crossing 20469 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale 480-401-1102, thecraftsmanaz.com
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Nirvana
Long Meadow Ranch boasts Farmstand and its own estate winery, pictured here. (Photo courtesy Long Meadow Ranch)
St. Helena is an oasis of food, wine and redwoods
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By Alison Bailin Batz
t. Helena is a city within Napa County known for its combination of small-town charm; big, bold wines; and epicurean experiences. The small city is home to more than 400 wineries and dozens of award-winning restaurants as well as copious outdoor activities, notably kayaking, biking and horseback riding. Here is a look at how to maximize a long weekend or quick trip to this Northern California gem.
St. Helena is proudly farmto-fork and farm-to-table. (Photo courtesy Long Meadow Ranch)
Harvest Inn
Spread over 8 lush acres in St. Helena, the Harvest Inn oozes romance. Though it is just off the main drag in the region, once you enter the property, you are transported into another realm. The secluded resort is hidden between massive redwoods, botanical gardens, art installations and fountains that make one feel as if they stepped into a fairy tale. It’s wine country, and there are vineyards as far as the eye can see. There are even rooms set directly in the vineyards just steps from Whitehall Lane Leonardini Family Vineyards. Several rooms on the dog-friendly property boast fireplaces
or hot tubs, and the suites have so much living space that one is tempted to order in wine and plan one or more nights here. Of particular note is Harvest Table, one of the most lauded restaurants in Northern California. The ingredients are heavily sourced from Northern California to ensure freshness, and the dishes are second to none. Info: harvestinn.com
Press St. Helena
Beyond the Harvest Inn, those in the know book a reservation at Press while
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in St. Helena. A true expression of the region, the contemporary farmhouse-style restaurant is tucked between rolling, vine-covered hills; has grand views of the Mayacamas Mountains; and is home to the largest collection of Napa Valley wines in the world. The all-Napa Valley wine list celebrates current vintages as well as older wines going back over 50 years; as a result, wine is very much at the core of Press. With over 1,200 selections, the restaurant has become the ideal place to taste one’s way through
the rich history of the Napa Valley and deeply explore the fabled wine-growing region. And then there is the food. Under the direction of chef Philip Tessier, Press is a celebration of flavor. With these freshest of ingredients, he develops his menu as an epicurean tour of California cuisine at its best. The outdoor garden and patio accommodate alfresco dining, featuring a large outdoor fireplace and stunning views of the Mayacamas Mountains. Info: pressnapavalley.com
TRAVEL Joseph Phelps delights in developing culinary pairings with its award-winning wines. (Photo by Emma K. Morris)
Napa Valley Paddle
Thanks to an urban renewal project in the 1970s, the Napa River is bigger and better than ever. Today, the 55-mile river travels through most of the Napa Valley region and notably rises in northwestern Napa County just south of the summit of Mount St. Helena in the Mayacamas Mountains of the California Coast Ranges. Through Napa Valley Paddle, visitors can sign up for several kayaking and paddleboard adventures, each of which starts with formal instruction to ensure safety. Many tours glide through a local nature preserve, and there is also rental pricing for those who prefer to go alone. Knowing not all outdoor enthusiasts like to get a little wet, Napa Valley Paddle also offers hiking and biking tours, each exploring lesser-visited areas of the region. Info: napavalleypaddle.com
Vintners Association, which helped create the Napa we know today. A visit to this historic and important winery is a must. When visiting, consider reserving the Heritage Lounge Tasting beyond just a glass or bottle. Why? Martini employs chef Jeffery Russell, who delights in dreaming up mouth-watering culinary pairings to highlight its most exclusive and sought-after small-lot sips. Info: louismartini.com
Louis M. Martini Winery
Charles Krug Winery
This gem was first built in 1933 in anticipation of Prohibition coming to an end in the United States. Its founder, Louis M. Martini, is not just the namesake of the award-winning vineyard and renowned wine; he is a founder of the Napa Valley
In addition to Martini, Charles Krug Winery in St. Helena teems with historical significance in addition to an enchanting property and extraordinary wine selection. Founded in 1861, Charles Krug, the visionary father of Napa Valley winemaking, established the estate. In 1943, the Mondavi Family — perhaps the best-known name in American wine — purchased the iconic estate to develop wines that epitomize and honor the region. There are several viticulture and historic adventures to be had at Krug, but in true California fashion, they are anything but stuffy. Case in point: its Cabana Experience, which features one’s own outdoor, private cabana for six and the option for sips and bites, Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are notably freshly made pizza among the most popular outdoor activities in from an outdoor brick oven. St. Helena. (Photo courtesy Filip Mroz on Unsplash) Info: charleskrug.com
Joseph Phelps Vineyards
The 600 acres of oak-studded hills and golden valleys where this vineyard sits were a cattle ranch once upon a time, until Joe Phelps planted cabernet sauv igno n, zinfande l, rieslin g and gewurztraminer on the property in the 1970s. The result, as one might guess, was legendary. In the decades since, the Phelps family owns and farms nine estate vineyards in St. Helena, Rutherford, Oakville, Stags Leap District, Oak Knoll District, South Napa and Carneros. But this continues to be home, and one of the best vineyard experiences in the region. From terrace tastings to wine blending and culinary experiences, the Phelps family continues to bring honor to its name and provide a little piece of heaven in every glass and dish. Info: josephphelps.com
Farmstead
Long Meadow Ranch is one of the coolest farms in the world. Actually, there are several Long Meadow Ranch Farms, but St. Helena is the granddaddy of them all. The family-owned, biodynamic, solar-powered farm boasts wines, extra virgin olive oils, grass-fed beef, eggs and heirloom fruits and vegetables, and that is just to start. At the heart of the St. Helena property is Farmstead, a farmhouse restaurant that also features an outdoor café, general store and farmers market, each with its own vibe, tastings and tours depending on where your tastebuds want to take you. Info: longmeadowranch.com
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‘Pure Sex Appeal’ Bob Parsons spoils golfers with the slick PXG clubs By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski ob Parsons is affable and playful when he talks about his Scottsdale Airpark-based company Parsons Xtreme Golf, otherwise known as PXG. “Sometimes it’s a real blast,” he says with a laugh. “Other times, not so much.” The billionaire and GoDaddy mastermind founded PXG to prove he could get more out of his golf equipment. He says with revolutionary patented technology, the world’s finest materials and zero cost or time restraints, PXG products would be golf clubs without compromise. “PXG is probably the most unique golf equipment company in the industry,” he says. “First of all, we are an experiential brand. Playing with our equipment, getting fit for our equipment and coming to the stores is very different than dealing with anybody else.” Parsons and his staff are concerned about one thing: having the top research and development engineers. When other golf companies release something new, they talk about how much better it is, and that’s suspect, he says. Parsons says his equipment
is noticeably better or it’s not released. “We’re not a public company,” he says. “We’re not known to generate cash. Our one purpose is to engineer the very finest golf equipment in the industry, and we continue to do that. “We spend far more to develop and make our equipment than other companies, I believe. When golfers get a chance to play PXG and hit it for the first time, they are
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Parsons Xtreme Golf in the Scottsdale Airpark has top-notch, high-tech products in its store.
Bob Parsons, who founded GoDaddy, started PXG as a way of landing the best clubs. (Special to Scottsdale Airpark News)
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stunned. It makes such a difference.” PXG does not market through big-box stores. Instead, PXG offers mobile fitting and select certified retailers, as well as an aggressive call center, he says. “We do probably the best job of making sure our clubs fit our customers,” he adds. Nobody stands tall next to his clubs, he adds. The list of golfers who use PXG clubs is impressive — brand ambassador Darius Rucker, former President Barack Obama and a slew of PGA and LPGA stars. There are others, Parsons says, whom he is not at liberty to reveal. Former Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Archie Bradley can attest to the clubs’ performance and the company’s vibe. Bradley says he considers PXG his family. “My experience has been amazing,” says Bradley, who recently sold his Scottsdale home and signed with the Philadelphia Phillies. “A lot of companies talk about being a family. Since I’ve been a part of PXG, I felt like a family member. I get random gifts like hats, shirts — just swag. They’re obviously very gracious with fitting me with numerous sets of the clubs.” Bradley’s bond with PXG was tightened
PXG users include singer Darius Rucker and former President Barack Obama, as well as a host of PGA and LPGA golfers. in February 2019, after his golf bag containing clubs worth $5,925, a $3,000 Louis Vuitton wallet, Bradley’s driver’s license and credit cards were stolen from the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course’s 16th hole at the 2019 Waste Management Phoenix Open. Although his clubs were returned, Bradley says PXG gifted him with a set. “Immediately, even before it went public, they sent me a brand-new bag,” Bradley says
via telephone from his home in Oklahoma. He doesn’t claim to be a great golfer. Bradley has even a better reason for using the clubs. “They’re just cool,” he says with a laugh. “The performance is going to speak for themselves. I mean, look at the pros who are using their clubs. There’s just a coolness and edge and design that stands out and separates them from others.” PXG ensures golfers are fitted with the best club possible.
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The PXG upscale clothing line rivals the hightech quality of the clubs.
That’s exactly why Parsons founded PXG. He’s an avid golfer who bought the latest and greatest clubs when they hit the market. About eight years ago, Parsons acquired Scottsdale National Golf Club, an exclusive members-only course in North Scottsdale. Less than a year after that, Parsons was approached about “talented engineers” who were looking for a new challenge. “I reached out and hired a couple engineers from Ping,” Parsons says. “We set out to make the very best golf clubs ever made. We didn’t know if we could do it, but we had unlimited time and an unlimited budget to invest in the equipment.” Once the engineers’ no-compete clause expired, Parsons and his team of engineers “nailed it.” Now, PXG has the “most expensive golf clubs that are made. We found a way to take our technology and engineer it in clubs that are outstanding. The result of all that together is the company has grown like a weed.” The COVID-19 pandemic forced PXG to swing in a new direction. The stores changed their policies and asked customers to mask up. Salespersons and those who assemble the clubs practice social distancing and wear masks, too. Despite the pandemic, the average company, Parsons says, grew 20% in 2020. PXG increased its sales by 100%. He sees PXG continuing to grow.
“We’re already profitable,” he says. “In a very difficult business, we sell direct. Even though our prices are high, if we sold through big box, they would be a lot higher or we would have to compromise the quality, which we won’t do.” Parsons is preparing to release a new lineup of golf clubs that he calls “simply amazing.” The PXG Gen 4 collection has “pinpoint accuracy, explosive sound and pure sex appeal.” The price is worth every cent,” he says. “Nobody makes golf clubs like us,” Parsons adds. Bradley appreciates Parsons and PXG going out of their way to spoil him and to make sure he’s fitted with gloves and swag. He will most assuredly return to PXG when he lands in the Valley to participate in the Waste Management Phoenix Open’s Pro-Am Tournament. “I’ll be using my PXGs, baby,” he says with a laugh.
PXG Scottsdale: Headquarters 15690 N. 83rd Way, Scottsdale 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Suite E012, in Westgate, Glendale 1-844-PLAY-PXG, pxg.com, info@pxg.com FEBRUARY 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /
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Modest About Success G
Golf has been largely unaffected by pandemic
reat weather, beautiful golf courses and the Waste Management Phoenix Open are some of the reasons why tourists are attracted to the Valley. Scottsdale, which is home to 51 courses, attracts millions of tourists, and 10% of those nearly 5 million people play golf during their stay. It has been nearly a year since the COVID19 pandemic struck, causing massive shutdowns. Almost 100 million people have tested positive for the virus, 2 million of those in the United States. More than 400,000 lives have been lost in the United States. Businesses like restaurants, gyms, stadiums and arenas were closed in March of last year due to the number of growing cases, but one essential business has remained open since
By Nicholas Barker the pandemic started — and it is flourishing. Golf courses, especially in Arizona, where golf is playable throughout the year, have seen an increase in the number of players, and business has continued to grow since the pandemic started. One reason behind the increased business is golfers can easily maintain social distancing while on the course, where it is more difficult to contract the coronavirus. Home to the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the TPC Scottsdale has seen steady business. TPC General Manager Doug Hodge says business was slow when the pandemic started, but it quickly started to ramp up. “Business slowed from March through April, and it came to a stop basically,” Hodge says. “We closed our golf shops, and we were taking payments online, prepaid only, for six
or seven weeks. As golf became a safe outlet and activity with social distancing and being outside, in May and June things started to ramp up and get busier. Since then, business has been good, and it’s no secret that golf has prospered quite a bit during the pandemic.” In a 2014 UA study, golf courses brought in just over $1 billion in sales, and tourists added another $1 billion to the coffers. Scottsdale is one of the best places to play golf in Arizona. Stephanie Pressler, Experience Scottsdale’s director of community affairs, says golf is a huge contributor to the city’s budget. “It is just a great amenity to have visitors and residents who are here,” Pressler says. “Right now, especially with people trying to find ways to do activities safely, golf is such a great outlet for that. You can enjoy
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The Waste Management Phoenix Open is still on for February 1 to February 7, but the accompanying Birds Nest was canceled. (Photo courtesy Waste Management Phoenix Open)
the outdoors, be outside and be doing something fun.” TPC Scottsdale, which has won tournament of the year four of the last six years, isn’t a course where newbie golfers play. Returning golfers have flocked to the course. “We’re seeing more people returning to the game, and those who haven’t played for a while,” Hodge says. “Throughout the area, you definitely hear a lot of stories of a lot of new golfers taking up the game and trying it. It has been a little bit different for us, rather than some other properties around town. But we have definitely seen a lot of people returning to the game that hadn’t played for a while.” Obviously, health and safety are priorities for TPC Scottsdale management. Many government officials believed golf courses should be shut down for longer than they were, but that did not happen. Golf courses remain open, but new safety measures have been implemented around the course. “We keep the flagsticks in, and we have an insert in the cup, so you don’t have to reach down and touch the flagstick and all that,” Hodge says. “For a while, we had removed bunker rakes, but after data came in that it was more airborne, we added rakes back. We sanitize the golf carts when they come in and before the round. If you know the group you are playing with, you can share the cart with them.”
While business is flourishing, Hodge did not expect to make it to this point. He and many of his colleagues say they believe golf would take a step back to ensure that the virus is the No. 1 concern. “If you would have asked us in April what business would look like in the fall and winter months, I don’t think anybody would have really predicted that it would be like what it has been,” Hodge says. “It’s pretty surprising, and it’s just the way things have played out. Outdoor activities are where it’s at safety wise, and golf really checks a lot of the boxes for that.” Many golf courses offer more than just a round of golf. There are clubs, events and other activities that go on as well. Much of those other events have vanished this past year and so far in 2021. The Waste Management Phoenix Open is still on for February 1 to February 7. But the accompanying Birds Nest was canceled. That is just one of many examples of how group business has been affected. The Waste Management Phoenix Open, known for the record crowds and the electric 16th hole, will have a few thousand fans at the course this month. “Normally, that is such an important event for our community with the economic impact it brings,” Pressler says. “Obviously, it is going to look a lot different this year, but we are happy that they are still able to move forward and really have safety at the
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forefront to ensure golfers and fans are able to enjoy it in a safe way.” Hodge explains the loss of group business has been the hardest to conquer. “Group business vanished, which is a pretty big piece of our business,” Hodge says. “It seems that you have to readjust your focus and your priority and just adapt a lot more than you usually normally would have. Like every business during the pandemic, we’ve had to change and evolve and look for their best opportunity. That’s been the biggest challenge.” Anticipating how a business will perform is critical to its success. TPC Scottsdale might not have been 100% certain that it could handle a global pandemic, but the way it was able to adapt and adjust is one major reason it has remained successful during the last 10 months. But nothing is given. The managers at the well-known Scottsdale course do not know exactly what the future holds and when things will return to normal. Hodge is ready for the challenge and looking forward to what is to come. “We have been trying to predict a year in advance for the last 10 months or so,” Hodge says. “What will business look like and will we be able to have a large group or not? So that is the biggest challenge. There are a lot of unknowns for the next six to nine months. We don’t really know what the world will be like.”
A POWERFUL VOICE
Tiffany Richards founded Peaceful Warrior Martial Arts and Healing Center to help women — and men — avoid injury and abuse. (Photo courtesy Peaceful Warrior Martial Arts and Healing Center)
Workshop teaches women and girls self-defense strategies
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By Laura Latzko
iffany Richards understands the need for self-defense classes. While in her 20s, she endured an abusive relationship for a year and a half. For many years, she avoided the topic, but she felt the need to help others. She founded the Peaceful Warrior Martial Arts and Healing Center in the Scottsdale Airpark area. “When I got out of the relationship and started teaching women’s self-defense, I never talked about the relationship, because I was super embarrassed,” Richards says. “Why would I train in martial arts and allow this to happen to me? It wasn’t until a few years ago that I started actually bringing it up. The feedback that I have received is it makes me real. It makes me one of them, and it makes them more comfortable to open up because I know what it feels like.” Richards is hosting a self-defense workshop for 25 girls and women on February 6 at her center. It will give them knowledge and the skills to be able to defend themselves and have a powerful voice and presence. Participants are encouraged to attend with friends or family, with whom they will work throughout the class. Individual participants will be paired together for the duration of the workshop. Richards has more than 20 years’ experience in self-defense and is a seconddegree blackbelt. She teaches self-defense workshops around the country. She has done private sessions for groups, including churches, adventure organizations and families. Her workshops are hands-on, with the
instructors not wearing big pads so that participants can feels what it’s like to strike another person. Richards pressure tests everything on herself. “I never want to give women information that is not valuable or that might end up hurting them in the long run,” she says. “When I work with the men who do the attacks, I have them make it as difficult as possible because that’s what’s going to happen in real life.” Although men act as attackers during the workshops, Richards leads the class. She says this is important because many women, especially those who have experienced violence at the hands of a men, feel more comfortable with a female self-defense teacher. She says, as a woman, she can better understand where women are coming from physically and mentally. “Men, no matter if they teach you the physical components of self-defense, they
are never going to understand what a woman feels like to feel helpless,” Richards says. “They will never understand what it feels like to debate whether or not you are going to walk out of your house to take your dogs for a walk in the evening in the dark. You have to think about your safety. A guy doesn’t think about that kind of stuff. They will never be in our heads. They will never understand the fear that we feel.” During the class, Richards shows participants how to get out of holds, including being grabbed from behind or taken to the ground. They also learn how to strike vulnerable areas, such as the eyes, nose, ears or throat, so that they can create a distraction and get away from their attackers. Richards says getting to experience hitting another person and training pad can make women feel more confident. “A lot of women have never hit anything,” Richards says. “They don’t know what to do. When you put a pad in front of
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A Scottsdale workshop for girls and women highlights ways to escape holds and strike with force. Clockwise, from bottom left, are palm strike, elbows and bear hug. (Photos courtesy Peaceful Warrior Martial Arts and Healing Center)
them, that is when they find out how truly capable and powerful they really are.” The class also makes participants more aware of how everyday behaviors, such as walking or sitting in a car while looking at a cellphone, can be dangerous. The workshop will debunk myths such as how keys can be used as a weapon when held a certain way. Richards emphasizes in class how
participants should listen to their intuition. “We are born with that instinct,” Richards says. “When we feel something in our gut, it’s probably right, and you want to pay attention to that and not talk yourself out of that feeling.” Richards will also discuss the significance of body positioning in preventing an attack. “You don’t want your eyes down, shoulder slouched or head down,” Richards says. “The predators are going to pick a weak victim. They aren’t going to pick someone who’s strong, who’s walking with a purpose. They aren’t going to pick someone who looks like they are going to put up a fight. They want to pick someone who’s an easy target.” Richards says women should stop saying sorry, use their voice and even scream if the need arises. Participants take the classes for a variety of reasons. Some individuals see a need after they or someone close to them has been assaulted, while some mothers bring their teens to make sure they know how to defend themselves. After these workshops, participants may take private lessons or sign up for martial arts class at the center. Others may take the workshops multiple times so that they can pick up something new. The workshop comes at a time when domestic violence has increasingly become a bigger issue, as people are at home in close
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proximity more often during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to statistics from the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, 1 out of every 4 women will experience sexual or physical violence or stalking by a partner. “The UN is calling it the shadow pandemic because what’s ending up happening is there are lockdowns,” Richards says. “There’s heightened stress, increased drinking. With all of that comes domestic violence and child abuse. It’s always a good time to have a self-defense course, but especially with this pandemic and people being locked up together, this particularly is a good thing to be doing.” Through the workshop, Richards wants to help women and girls to be ready to avoid or escape dangerous situations. “I would never want to tell anyone that they are going to take this class and walk out experts. It gives them tools to be more prepared,” Richards says.
WHAT: “The Peaceful Warrior Woman: Teen and Women Self Defense” WHEN: 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, February 6 WHERE: Peaceful Warrior Martial Arts and Healing Center, 7830 E. Redfield Road, Suites 11 and 12, Scottsdale COST: $24 for one, $40 for two INFO: 480-200-1187, peacefulwarriorphx.com
g n i t Crea
l u f s s e c c Su Life coach Tracey Martin isn’t in it to be liked By Laura Latzko
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racey Martin says everyone knows a successful businessperson who is a train wreck behind closed doors. To help remedy this, Martin started a life-coaching business, TLM Coaching and Media, in the Airpark. “The goal is to create that holistically successful person, where every area of their life is integrated to create a successful life,” she says. Martin’s work revolves around helping individuals to be stronger and improve their relationships. She collaborates with folks of all ages, doing vision-based work, immersive experiences, breakout sessions, panels and writing exercises.
e l p o e P
Martin works with clients who are looking to make changes in their lives, often at times of crisis or adversity. She says it is important to listen to them in a nonjudgmental manner. “I coach on personal mastery, which is really getting to know who you are and how you operate in the world on every level, if you are a parent, a young teen or young adult,” she says. “It’s about how you are doing in life and how you are in relationships, choosing your career, friendships, family and communication. It’s really seeking and searching who you are so you can show up for other people in the world, which actually is really what we need right now. We need people who are whole and healed and address their issues or whatever they perceive as issues.”
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Martin does not try to find faults with her clients but instead helps them to be the best versions of themselves. “I just uncover everything that’s right with the person and then help them to find their best place to be,” Martin says. “I want to come in and do the work, give you the skills and tools that you need and get out of your way so that you can live a successful, thriving life.” Often in her work, Martin coaches parents and teens. Martin’s goal is to facilitate better communication, especially when teens are transitioning to high school or college. “There are all these different seasons in life,” she says. “I think as parents, we are used to that language, but when it comes to our kids, we are not. We have to realize they
Life coach Tracey Martin recently moved to an office in the Scottsdale Airpark. (Photo by Phyllis Lane)
go through that, too, and that is going to require us to shift a bit as well. “I can’t parent my 10-yearold the way I would parent my 20-year-old. I have to be careful and realize I have to change who I am as a parent and my approach. I have to allow my kid to grow, but I have to grow with them.” Coupled with her regular staff, Martin has a team of teen/ young adult ambassadors ages 18 to 21 who assist her with advising teens and help with workshops and panels. “We have been able to create an environment for growth that I’m very proud of,” Martin says. “I love the way the events and workshops go. Everyone is open. Everyone is vulnerable. We do teen-led panels. We have open discussions. It is a nonjudgmental safe space, and these kids know that.”
Airpark move
A fourth-generation entrepreneur with more than 27 years’ life-coaching experience, Martin began her career as a personal fitness trainer and nutritionist with a holistic approach in Missouri. Martin has lived in the Valley for 28 years, but in July 2020, she moved TLM Coaching and Media to 7720 E. Evans Road, Suite 105. She continues to work with out-of-state clients by traveling to them and/or hosting phone, video and Zoom coaching sessions. The new office space has the look of a Santa Barbara-style home, with two entrances, an open area for coaching, a podcast room and a welcome space resembling a family room. “I wanted it to be very unique and different because of what I do,” Martin says. “We found a great location that fits really well, and it’s comfortable.” Although she has been limited by COVID-19, Martin has hosted small-group workshops. In January, Martin held a
workshop for people ages 18 to 28 about fear, anxiety, addiction, depression and addictive behaviors during COVID-19. In mid-February, she’ll host Zoom and in-person “Courageous Parenting” workshops that will focus on communicating with teens and young adults and the unseen effects of COVID-19. She recently worked with families who are dealing with coronavirus-related issues, such as the challenges of at-home learning. Martin has experienced this with her 17- and 21-year-old daughters. “We have to have patience, and we have to learn to speak up and ask for what we need,” Martin says. “That’s probably one of the biggest things that teens struggle with, is saying, ‘I’m struggling here, and I need help with this.’ “More than anything, we need to remember you have your kids at home now. There’s an opportunity to recreate that circle and get involved in what they are doing, but you have parents who are still working. It’s a very different landscape. We have to learn to show up differently. If you don’t communicate, and your communication isn’t clear and transparent, that’s where we get disconnection. That happens all the time, especially under these circumstances.” Martin also plans to reach out to others through a life-coaching podcast. She will
do live life-coaching sessions and bring on guests to provide further advice. “It will be real people dealing with life and the way things are shifting around in world today and how they navigate it to give people skills and tools,” Martin says. Martin says to be a life coach it is important to be educated and have mental and emotional fortitude. “You have to have extreme levels of emotional toughness and a high level of discernment,” she says. “I think you have to be very foundationally solid as a person. For me, my faith is very strong in this. I have a solid marriage of 26 years. I’ve got two great kids. “I think you have to be willing not to be liked and speak your truth, rather than just being a yes person, and be able to stand for what you believe in. I think that so oftentimes you tell people what they want to hear rather than what they need to hear. I’m willing not to be liked. I’m not here to be popular. I’m here to be effective as a coach.”
TLM Coaching and Media 7720 E. Evans Road, Suite 105, Scottsdale officiallytraceymartin.com
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Philanthropic
Jared Woosley is teaching hockey one step at a time By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski ared Woosley has two loves — hockey and music. He was the lead singer of the now-defunct rock band Fivespeed, which had a deal with Virgin Records in 2006. Now the Valley man is sharing both of his obsessions with the disabled community through Scottsdale Airpark-based One Step Beyond. Woosley is the founder and manager of the One Step Coyotes and One Step
Sharks, branches of One Step Beyond, which provides skills programs to the disabled community. “I grew up in a hockey family,” Woosley says. “My dad was a (college hockey) goalie. I was a goalie as well. I went to the U.S. Olympic Training Center when I was 15. After that, I found music and I put a stop on my hockey career. My dad was shattered. With Fivespeed, we had a modestly successful career with Virgin Records. I founded One Step Beyond (music and
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hockey programs) 12 years ago. I created their music program as well. It’s changed my life.” One Step Beyond empowers its members to achieve independence, self-sufficiency and employment through innovative culinary, education, fitness and arts programs as well as strategic partnerships with local businesses that enable participants to achieve greater social participation in their communities. One Step Beyond has four locations
The One Step Sharks play against the One Step Coyotes at the Arizona Cactus Cup at AZ Ice Peoria. (Photo courtesy Jared Woosley)
Playmaker in the Valley, including Glendale, Peoria, Scottsdale and Surprise, as well as two locations in the California Bay area: San Mateo and San Carlos. The core group of participants had family members who were playing hockey and never had the chance or opportunity to enjoy the sport themselves. “I got together with some of the parents and members of the hockey community and we immediately started looking for hockey gear and ice time,” he says.
“It grew so fast. It wasn’t too long when we grew out of our shoes. The Coyotes came and gave us support and partnered with us. We mirrored the model with the San Jose Sharks.” The programs are in limbo because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to a ban on contact sports in Santa Clara County, California, NHL’s San Jose Sharks are forced to play their first two scheduled home games at Gila River Arena on February 1 and February 3. The One Step Sharks are
unable to play as well. In the meantime, Woolsey has been fundraising. Recently, One Step Beyond became a beneficiary of the 2020-21 Sharks Foundation Goals for Kids. For each San Jose Sharks goal scored during the season, $1,000 will be given to one of eight organizations dedicated to enhancing the lives of those in need. “For the entirety of the Sharks season, any goal they score, $1,000 is donated to the running sum of funds,” says Heather Hooper, the Sharks’ director of community relations. “At the end of the season, the funds are evenly distributed among the eight organizations. So far, the Sharks have scored 19 goals, so that’s about $19,000 for the nonprofits.” The program is in its seventh year and, to date, the foundation has given more than $1.6 million to local nonprofits. She says it gives fans a different perspective on the games. “There are financials associated with every goal,” Hooper says. “If there’s an empty net at the end of the game, it just feels different. People think it’s just one extra goal; it doesn’t make that big of a difference. But it certainly does — that’s extra money.” The One Step Sharks and the One Step Coyotes also received a donation of hockey gear from Bauer. The $5,000 in-kind donation would have dressed five players for the 2020-21 season. “Bauer is a leading manufacturer of ice hockey equipment,” Woosley says. “To have them as a partner means the world to our team. The recent pandemic has our season on hold, but the players are still working on their skills and looking forward to getting back on the ice. The donation is a light in these uncertain times.” Woosley also received a $3,000 grant from Subway. “We’re so close. I don’t think we’re far off from starting the season in the next couple
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Then known as the One Step Bobcats, the One Step Coyotes celebrated the 100-year NHL anniversary with the Stanley Cup. As part of the celebration, the organization received $10,000 from the Coyotes Foundation. (Photo courtesy Jared Woosley) months,” he says. “All of the players are chomping at the bit. In the meantime, we’re just fundraising.” To donate, visit osbi.org and click on the “donate” button. Donors can restrict the funds to either the Sharks or Coyotes’
hockey programs with a note. “I’m proud of One Step Beyond,” he says. “It allowed me to follow my passion and share it with my friends. Not many organizations would be so encouraging.”
presence? Why not learn from a former Facebook Employee?
Online Courses available for One on One Coachin or even Done for You Service!
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One Step Beyond 8224 E. Evans Road, Scottsdale 623-215-2449, osbi.org
FOOD & WINE
The adobo chorizo meatloaf features pork chorizo, ground beef, habanero barbecue glaze, roasted poblano mashed potatoes and crispy vegetables ($18). (Photo courtesy Z’Tejas)
g n i c i p S p U s g Thin Z’Tejas is satisfying fans’ cravings in Scottsdale
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By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski hen Robby Nethercut heard Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill was struggling, he knew he had to help with its resurrection and expansion. “(The original store) was across the street from the Austin Independent School District central office,” says Nethercut, the brand’s chief operating officer. “For a lot of teachers and educators,
Berries French toast is a sweet take on the traditional breakfast dish, with brioche buns, Kahlua and vanilla batter, cream cheese filling, orange zest, cinnamon, syrup and bourbon berry sauce and topped with whipped cream and mint ($12). (Photo courtesy Z’Tejas)
that was their home base — including my mom. They’d run across the street for lunch. Teachers love to visit happy hour. It has a lot of fond memories for me, too. When the opportunity came up, it was definitely something I wanted to be a part of. I am excited about taking Z’Tejas and expanding it back and making it a household name.” The expansion plans include a new store in Scottsdale in the Mercado del Lago plaza at 8300 N. Hayden Road, Suite D-101. When the original Z’Tejas at Scottsdale Fashion Square closed, diners asked when the brand would return to the area. “We have a lot of folks who still send us comments through social media saying they wanted us to reopen in
Scottsdale,” Nethercut says. “As we started to look and expand, we thought we should go where we have a fanbase, so to speak.” The new restaurant will open in the former location of Rick’s Café Americana in February. “It’s a beautiful space with these huge, 35-foot ceilings,” Nethercut says. “It really creates a unique environment. There are two huge community garage doors that open onto the patio. With the weather there, the doors will be open about 80% of the year. “And with Rancho Santa Margarita Lake, it’s a really unique spot. I don’t think you could build or re-create that spot.” A large bar will be the focal point of
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FOOD & WINE
the dining room, with two hand-painted murals flanking the bar depicting scenes of Arizona and Austin, where the restaurant was founded. Dropped Edison bulbs and raw edge wood tables will add distinctive touches to the restaurant. The two sliding garage doors will allow for easy flow between the dining room and the 2,200-square-foot patio with lake views and access to the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt park. A private dining room with a chef’s table will be available for special dinners and events. Nethercut calls Z’Tejas a “chef-driven concept” with new creations. In this case, the executive chef is Costa Rica-raised Diego Bolanos. He moved to Arizona in 2010 to open Pinnacle Peak Grill in North Scottsdale. He also worked with Lisa Dahl at Mariposa Latin Grill, Thirsty Lion and now Z’Tejas and Taco Guild, which were formerly under the same umbrella. “They stole him away when he was just working on Taco Guild entrees,” Nethercut says. “We are doing fresh, fun creations. We are a scratch kitchen. We make everything from scratch every day, except the hamburger buns, French fries and ketchup.” The menu will feature classic dishes for which Z’Tejas is known, including the shrimp
The watermelon strawberry margarita is Centenario blanco tequila, strawberry and watermelon syrups, lime juice, agave and tajin ($11). (Photo courtesy Z’Tejas)
The grilled salmon is covered in jalapeno cream sauce and served with house rice and seasonal vegetables. (Photo courtesy Z’Tejas)
tostada bites, Santa Fe enchiladas and diablo pasta. Rotating seasonal menus will vary and highlight specialty dishes with drink pairings. The drinks menu will be rooted in Sixth Street house m a rg a r i t a , C h a m b o rd margarita, tequila flights and hand-crafted nonalcoholic drinks. Brunch will continue at Z’Tejas as well from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that menu has been reduced. “We’d rather focus on doing things well, as opposed to doing 30 entrees or something like that,” he says. “We stuck with our staples, like huevos rancheros. We do a green pork chile tamales eggs benedict at brunch. We partnered with the Tucson Tamale Company. The tamale we have is custom made for Z’Tejas.” Daily happy hour specials will also continue from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays to Thursdays, and until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
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The ‘Spirit of Z’
In 2017, the grill filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time. Nethercut was hired to work with Z’Tejas two years ago to help resurrect the brand. “The gentleman who’s the owner (Randy Cohen) didn’t want to see it go away with the last reorganization,” Nethercut says. “I was brought in to help make sure we’re going on the right track.” Cohen and Nethercut co-own the company with Bolanos. The philosophy is to run Z’Tejas with an ownership mentality. “We need to have owners who are running it,” Nethercut says. “Randy is in Austin, where he fell in love with the brand. He had experienced it in Austin for so long, he didn’t want to see it go away or change hands again. “He wanted to step up and make a difference. He’s committed to making Z’Tejas successful. We’re in a niche market. We’re not high end, like Ocean 44, where it’s $100 a person. We really feel like we can offer a great dining experience at a great value. We just want folks who come to dine at Z’Tejas feel like they’re the guest of honor.”
Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill Mercado del Lago 8300 N. Hayden Road, Suite D-101, Scottsdale ztejas.com
FOOD & WINE
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. (Photo by Pablo Robles)
The Right Move Blue Agave jumps the COVID-19 hurdles
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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-year-old 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 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. 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 were also over sales from last year. That has to do with catering.” He also attributes that to taking care of
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FOOD & WINE
Since Brian Johnson bought Blue Agave Mexican Cantina 14 years ago, he has renovated the inside, including the bar, and overhauled the menu. (Photo by Pablo Robles)
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 has been a staple near the Mayo Clinic for about 14 years. (Photo by Pablo Robles)
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
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FOOD & WINE
What’s Cooking? WITH JAN D’ATRI S’mores Bars
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ant to surprise someone special this month? How about the perfect campout treat — without the campfire. If you love s’mores, you’re really going to love how easy these tasty treats are to cook! Yes, these S’mores Bars can be devoured right out of the oven! To be perfectly honest, I love these even more than the originals. They aren’t as messy, and they’re a cinch to make! S’mores Bars have all of the same ingredients, just assembled a little differently. These bars start with a graham cracker crust, which you can make with either store-bought graham cracker crumbs or with ground-up graham crackers. (My suggestion is to grind your own crumbs — much tastier!) Once you bake your cookie base, you’ll add the chocolate bars, then the marshmallow fluff and top with more cookie crumbs!
You can use melted marshmallows for the filling, but the marshmallow cream is a lot easier to spread. Then all that’s left is to bake them up and cut them into beautiful, yummy bars! This month make this fun treat for your flame … without the fire! S’mores Bars Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 1 teaspoon baking powder 4 Hershey Milk Chocolate bars (4.4 oz each) 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow cream 1 to 2 cups mini marshmallows Directions: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a 9-inch square baking pan by spraying with cooking spray or lining it with
parchment paper. (Using parchment paper with the sides overhanging helps lift the bars out of the pan easily.) In a large bowl, using a handheld or standing mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla. Add the flour, cracker crumbs, baking powder and salt. Beat together on low speed just until combined. The dough will be crumbly. Set aside 1 cup of cookie dough for topping. Press the remaining into the prepared 9-inch square baking pan and press down to form a crust. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely, and then arrange milk chocolate bars over the graham cracker crust. You may have to break one or two into the square pieces to ensure that everything gets covered. Drop spoonfuls of the marshmallow cream over the chocolate and then spread out. Sprinkle the reserved cookie dough on top and gently press down. Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate bits over top. Cook for 23-25 minutes. The edges will be golden brown. Let cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes or longer. Serve room temperature or chilled. Watch my how-to video for S’mores Bars here: jandatri.com/recipe/smoresbars
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REMEMBER When During and after World War II, the Maricopa County Housing Authority was “landlord” for the wartime housing project in Downtown Scottsdale, Thunderbird Homes. (Photo courtesy Scottsdale Historical Society)
Scottsdale’s ties are strong to Maricopa County
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By Joan Fudala ummoned for jury duty? Paying your property taxes? Voting? Getting a COVID-19 vaccine? These are the activities that prompt us to think about Maricopa County, but so many other essential and quality-of-life activities are the purview of our county government. On the occasion of Maricopa County’s 150th anniversary, it is a good time to look at just some of the historic ties between Scottsdale and the county. Maricopa County was established on February 14, 1871, with its county seat in Phoenix. It was created out of land from Yavapai County, then one of only four counties in the Arizona Territory. Like other counties in the territory/state, Maricopa was named in honor of an Indigenous tribe living here. Today there are 15 counties in Arizona, with Maricopa being the largest in size and population. Maricopa County’s boundaries, established in 1881, still encompass 9,224 square miles. The current population is about 4.4 million, making it the fourth most populous county in the United States. For county information and access to services, see maricopa.gov. From Scottsdale’s founding in 1888 until incorporation in 1951, Maricopa County
Due to the overwhelming number of signatures gathered on petitions, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors declared Scottsdale incorporated as of June 25, 1951. (Photo courtesy Scottsdale Progress) was the town’s primary governing body.
During the first draft registration, held
June 5, 1917, to populate the U.S. Army for World War I service, many voting precincts in Arizona ran out of registration cards because the response was so overwhelm-
ing. In Maricopa County, 5,964 men registered (of the 10 million nationwide). Many Scottsdale men were among those who registered and served. Due to the 1918 influenza epidemic, the Scottsdale Grammar School (now home
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REMEMBER When Maricopa County’s McDowell Mountain Regional Park adjoins Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve and is a popular recreational area. (Photo by Joan Fudala)
to the Scottsdale Historical Museum) was closed for nearly three months, reopening on December 30 under the direction of Principal M.A. Crouse. According to The Arizona Republican, “most, but not all, of the other schools of the (Maricopa) county will be reopened that day.” Car travel in Maricopa Country increased significantly during the decade 1910 to 1920. According to historian
Bradford Luckingham, there were 646 cars registered in 1913; 11,539 in 1920. One in 3 residents had a motor vehicle. In 1922, Maricopa County established a voting precinct and justice court in Scottsdale, giving the area official recognition. The first justice of the peace was William Kimsey (father of the town’s second mayor, Mort Kimsey); the first constable was Al Frederick.
Scottsdalians George Campbell, left, and Jim Bruner, right, as well as Eldon Rudd, not shown, have been elected to serve on the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. (Photo courtesy Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce)
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During Scottsdale’s early decades as
a farming and ranching community the county extension agent provided education and assistance to Scottsdale’s agricultural community. When a lending library opened in 1921 in the back of the Farmer’s Bank on Main Street, the county extension service provided brochures on subjects like gardening and canning. In 1943, a federally funded wartime housing project, Thunderbird Homes, opened in Downtown Scottsdale at Marshall Way between First and Second streets (now the site of Scottsdale’s Museum of the West). It was overseen by the newly created Maricopa County H o u s i n g A u t h o r i t y. T h e county continued to serve as “landlord” until Scottsdale incorporated and took over in 1951. The apartments were razed in 1960, and the site became a parking lot. During the late 1940s/early 1950s, volunteers operated a public library at various locations in Scottsdale — the Methodist Church, at Thunderbird Homes, at Scottsdale High School — with books loaned from the Maricopa County Library System. Today’s public
REMEMBER When library system was created by volunteers from the Scottsdale Woman’s Club in 1955. Culminating nearly four years of study, artist Wes Segner and Dr. Phil Schneider led a Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce committee in circulating incorporation petitions throughout Scottsdale property owners. Due to the high percentage of signatures, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors declared Scottsdale incorporated without the need or expense of an election. Scottsdale was officially incorporated as a town on June 25, 1951. Its incorporated area had a population of 2,032 living in a 0.34-square-mile area. The county board of supervisors appointed Malcolm White, Mort Kimsey, E.G. Scott, Jack Sweeney and Bill Miller to the first town council. In March 1952, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors added two more positions to the Scottsdale Town Council, appointing V.D. “Jim” Frederick and John Shoeman. Scottsdale conducted civil defense training at Scottsdale High and other district schools. An article in the March 8, 1958, Arizonian stated, “Atomic-age survival is to be taught interested residents of the Scottsdale area in a one-day civil defense course. … The course includes lectures, films and discussion on the basic conditions relating to atomic, biological and chemical warfare; there is material on fire fighting and rescue and on evacuation and the survival area. A supplemental course … dealing on panic prevention and control. … Mrs. Pat Walker, training and education deputy of the Maricopa County Civil Defense, will preside at each session.” In 1951, the state surveyed farm and other heavy vehicles that could be used in case of a mass evacuation — a photograph in the April 1951 issue of the Scottsdale Progress showed Scottsdale farmers demonstrating their farm equipment for the Maricopa County Civilian Defense Director Dan Wisner. In 1955, volunteers were recruited from throughout Maricopa County for the Group Observation Corps to serve in local observation posts. Housewives and homeowners were continuously urged to create a bomb, or fallout, shelter within their homes (in basementless homes in Scottsdale that would have been an interior bathroom or comparable space) and stock it with emergency supplies. An 18,273-acre area for Maricopa County’s McDowell Mountain Regional Park was first leased in 1958 and patented in 1964. Through further land acquisition, this was expanded to encompass 21,099
The Flood Control District of Maricopa County worked with Scottsdale and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to create the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt Flood Control Project in Scottsdale. (Photo courtesy Scottsdale Historical Society) acres. Much of the park was impacted by the July 1995 Rio fire. It adjoins Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The Flood Control District of Maricopa County, along with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was involved with the city of Scottsdale in planning and developing the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt Flood Control Project throughout the 1960s until it was completed in 1985. The Scottsdale Town Council, Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce and Maricopa County Board of Supervisors/Planning Commission formulated Scottsdale’s first comprehensive plan in 1960, covering a 15-square-mile area. In April 1963, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors signed a 16-year lease for the top of Thompson Peak in the McDowell Mountains as a site for radio tower and transmitters. This area had recently been annexed into the municipal boundaries of Scottsdale. The county leased the land for $1 a year from E.E. Brown, of Browns and D.C. Ranch. The Thompson Peak location replaced the county’s former radio tower site in the White Tank Mountains. In 1963, the Desert Foothills Scenic Drive was protected by a new Maricopa
County zoning ordinance. In 1966/’67, the city of Scottsdale joined the newly formed Maricopa Association of Governments to work on regional issues. In January 1966, residents of Vista del Camino/Penjamo neighborhood established the Organization for Improvement of Vista del Camino, governed by an eight-member board. The following year, this group was replaced by a neighborhood council when residents brought their project under the Maricopa County Community Action Agency. On February 24, 1967, B.W. Burns, a member of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, dedicated a 9-mile extension of Shea Boulevard that connected Scottsdale to the Beeline Highway. The million-dollar highway stretched Shea Boulevard from then-Scottsdale city limits at Shea and Alma School, east to the Beeline Highway. It was planned and built as a scenic highway, connecting Valley residents to recreational area and lakes to the east of Scottsdale. In February 1971, a mobile unit of the Maricopa County Health Department began regular visits to Scottsdale’s Vista del Camino neighborhood. Maricopa County paved Dynamite
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REMEMBER When
Road in 1978. Maricopa County published its Desert Foothills Policy and Development Guide in 1979, covering 323 square miles of county land, including land north of Scottsdale’s municipal boundary that would be annexed into the city in 1981, 1982 and 1984. The guide served as a land development guide for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and the county’s Planning and Zoning Commission as well as landowners, land developers, area residents and other governmental units, and was designed to guide development to the year 2000. Maricopa County paved Lone Mountain Road in 1981. On January 5, 1982, the city of Scottsdale annexed Maricopa County land that included the area east of Pinnacle Peak and the northwest portion of the McDowell Mountains, adding 10.3 square miles to the city and about 600 new residents. The area was then
Painting titled Splendor
About Liz Martin, The Artist
Since 1993, Liz has been creating unique abstract paintings that seem to call to the person observing. Her ability to let colors and textures dance on the canvas and relay a message, (often described as uplifting or inspirational) have been enjoyed by many at events from coast to coast, with specific showings in Sedona, Scottsdale, Laguna Beach, Seattle, Newport Beach, and West Palm Beach.
LIZ MARTIN FINE ART www.LizMartinFineART.com
Since opening in 1973, Scottsdale’s Vista Del Camino neighborhood center and its patrons have benefitted from various Maricopa County health and human services programs. (Photo courtesy Scottsdale Historical Society) rezoned, and a general plan was ratified. On October 6, 1983, the Scottsdale City Council approved annexation of a large area that included the northeast portion of the McDowell Mountains, as well as the Browns Ranch area, later made part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. On July 2, 1984, the Scottsdale City Council approved the final large land annexation of 36 square miles, north of Scottsdale. This action put Scottsdale’s square mileage at 185. Municipal boundary extended north to the border of the town of Carefree, the Continental Mountains and the Tonto National Forest. Historic Browns Ranch and land that became part of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve was included in this large annexation. Zoning for the newly annexed land was “inherited” from Maricopa County until Scottsdale could amend it. Maricopa County dedicated a $1.1 million, 6-mile section of Pima Road between Jomax and Stagecoach Pass (in Carefree) in 1983. In 1985, Maricopa County voters approved a 20-year half-cent sales tax increase to fund a multibillion-dollar Valley freeway system. In 2005, Scottsdale Charros, city of Scottsdale and San Francisco Giants announced an agreement to upgrade Scottsdale Stadium and training facilities at a cost of $23.1 million. According to the East Valley Tribune on March 16, 2005, “approximately $20 million will come from Municipal Property Corporation bonds, with $13.3 million funded by the Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority and $6.7 million through
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the Maricopa County Stadium District. The remaining $3.1 million will be from Scottsdale.” In January 2008, a Maricopa County Superior Court jury decided Scottsdale had to pay Toll Brothers $81.9 million for a 383-acre parcel that was long planned as the site for the Gateway to the Preserve and a Desert Discovery Center. The Scottsdale City Council opted not to appeal the yearsold dispute (begun in 2002), and paid the settlement. The Gateway to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve was dedicated in May 2009. At least three Scottsdale residents have been elected to represent District 2 on the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, each serving terms as board chair: Eldon Rudd, George Campbell and Jim Bruner. Scottsdale resident Rick Romley served as the elected county attorney. Former Scottsdale City Manager Roy Pederson went on to serve as Maricopa County manager. Scottsdalians have served on the volunteer sheriff’s posse, the Maricopa County Stadium District board and many other county boards and commissions that directly impact Scottsdale. From human services needs to property assessments, flood and mosquito control, the country court system and so much more, Scottsdale and its residents depend on and have a close working relationship with their county. Certainly, during the COVID-19 pandemic era, the county health department is an essential part of our lives. Happy 150th anniversary, Maricopa County!
ADVICE fromWeiss
FEBRUARY 2021 Business Horoscopes By Weiss Kelly, PMAFA
ARIES 3/21-4/20 The gateways to the true “Age of Aquarius” are wide open in February. Get used to the uncharted political, economic and societal landscape that you will be traveling through in the month ahead. Mercury put things on hold — including the vaccine distribution — yet it allows you to get those work, business and personal items accomplished before February 27. Power days: February 15, February 16 TAURUS 4/21-5/20 That once-in-a-lifetime planetary shift changed our perspective in December 2020. Finances are stable, as construction, mini real estate boom and interests escalate. Energies move forward by February 21. Power days: February 17, February 18, February 19 GEMINI 5/21-6/20 Good news is that your money remains status quote this month. In the next three to four months, your work will be concerning. Your energy is strong this month. Delays from February 1 to February 21 need not limit you. You have Zoom, your cell and Amazon, plus a wonderful way with words to communicate successfully. Power days: February 20, February 21 CANCER 6/21-7/22 The new landscape we entered is not difficult for you. Two Eclipses later in the year indicate job changes. You don’t mind working from home. This may continue, but the week of February 22 may bring medical breakthroughs. February sees a game of wait and see. Power days: February 22, February 23, February 24
LEO 7/23-8/21 Underline February as somewhat of a game changer for you, Leo. New affiliations are on this month’s calendar and the years ahead. Don’t commit until you sign on the dotted line between February 1 and February 22. Information may be withheld. Personal and professional relationships may have a long-term commitment. Power days: February 25, February 26 VIRGO 8/22-9/23 Some may demand your time by midmonth. The new moon on February 11 introduces restrictions that interfere with your schedule. Be prepared to work with others. Expect to reset your priorities in the weeks ahead. Power days: February 27, February 28 LIBRA 9/24-10/23 Expect to be an arbitrator this month. Libras may find themselves discovering new business resources. The internet can be your “at home” university campus. There are fi ve planets in Aquarius this month, indicating the importance of connecting and networking with the two other air signs — Gemini and Aquarius — which play an important role in 2021 and beyond. Power days: February 1, February 2, February 3 SCORPIO 10/24-11/22 There are miscommunications at the beginning of the month, which has you waltzing one step forward and two back. It may take three weeks adapting to this new norm. Use the lockdown period to network with former friends or consider learning a new trade. New moon on Feb-
ruary 11 is favorable to set a goal. Power days: February 4, February 5 SAGITTARIUS 11/23-12/21 In February, politics, education and humanitarian principles are topics of conversation. You’re concerned with travel and education. They may present problems. This month, everything is not in stone. It could be altered. Power days: February 6, February 7 CAPRICORN 12/22-1/19 Not giving up for 2 1/2 years will pay off this month. The emphasis is on your earning ability. Self-improvement and self-confidence are this year ’s rewards. Take time out this month to enjoy what you have earned. The past does not want you; the future does. Power days: February 8, February 9 AQUARIUS 1/20-2/18 Despite this month’s drama, you can still indulge February 1 to February 25. Expect an offer or advancement this month. Some relationships may end while others begin. Circle February 11 as a lucky day. With five planets in your own sign, what could go wrong? Power days: February 10, February 11, February 12 PISCES 2/19-3/20 This worldwide pandemic changed all of our lives. The virus has us in a chokehold, but only until September. Those in the medicine will be busy. I suspect there could be a restriction for some in the month ahead. Pisces may be in demand and having to sacrifice time and family responsibilities.
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