N OV E M B E R 2 02 1 | TH E P R E M I E R E I S S U E
Arizona Living at its Finest
LIFESTYLE LETTER
NOVEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER
Sherry York | sherry.york@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Welcome To Your Magazine! HELLO, FRIENDS!
Rebecca L. Rhoades | rebecca.rhoades@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER
Chad Jensen L AYO UT DESIGNER
Sara Minor
Welcome to the premier issue of City Lifestyle Ahwatukee. We are thrilled to bring you this community-inspired publication that is going to highlight all of the incredible things about this area where you live, work and play. We have so much to share with you! We are all things lifestyle: health, home, food, fashion, kids, pets and everything in
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Geri Koeppel, Rebecca L. Rhoades CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Taryn Stark
between. We want to share the inspiring stories of your neighbors; introduce you to new restaurants, pubs or coffee shops to try; and shine a light on the many incredible local businesses of all types that are ready to serve you in their unique ways. Ahwatukee pride is real — and for good reason. Our gorgeous desert landscape, situated at the base of South Mountain, provides incredible views as well as opportunities for an active lifestyle like no other. But the people are what makes Ahwatukee so incredibly special. We've met community members and business owners who are vested and want to do anything they can to help their neighbors. We plan to highlight this kindness and share all that makes Ahwatukee such a treasure. In this issue, you'll find some local gems: The Buzzed Goat is a unique spot that many
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
love to support, and maybe we'll tempt you to try making Hillside Spot's Chilaquiles
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
Verde at home. Enjoy the feature articles on Tate Schmitt and Joe Duffy; while they
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
have very different stories, they share a common thread of using their talents every
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
day. That's something we all aspire to do. And, enjoy a peek into a beautiful custom
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
home that's full of special touches that sets it apart.
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
We want to connect. We want to connect you with your neighbors. We want to connect you with incredible places to wine and dine or entertain you and your family. We want to connect you with the local businesses that work hard to serve you well. And, we want you to connect with us. Feel free to email me at sherry.york@lifestylepubs.com.
Sherry York, Publisher
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
ON THE COVER Billy Johnson’s Amberwood Homes residence
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TARYN STARK 4
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
Proverbs 3:5-6 City Lifestyle Ahwatukee™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Ahwatukee area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in City LifestyleAhwatukee™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2021
FEATURES 12 Caffeine to Cocktails Morning and night, The Buzzed Goat has your beverage
14 Hometown Advantage Tate Schmitt scores with Phoenix Rising
18 Made in Ahwatukee Firefighter and Navy veteran Joe Duffy transforms wood into functional works of art
18 12
26 The Secret's in the Sauce Try Hillside Spot's Chilaquiles Verde at home
26
14
DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Around Town
12
Hot Spot
14
Hometown Hero
22 Open House 26 Culinary Creations 28 Local’s Choice 30 Inspired By 33 Realty Report 34 Lifestyle Calendar
T H E VA L L E Y ' S P R E M I E R C U S T O M H O M E B U I L D E R
I F YOU CA N DR E A M IT W E CA N BU I L D IT
CELEBRATING 36 YEARS OF CUSTOM HOME BUILDING Contact Billy Johnson directly at 602-377-3128 Call us today for a complimentary lot evaluation or custom home building consultation. www.amberwoodhomes.com
WE BUILD THE BEST CUSTOM HOME FOR THE MONEY IN THE VALLEY Amberwood Homes has innovative ideas, offers exceptional quality, and has built a solid reputation as one of the best custom home builders in Arizona. Our customers can count on Master Builder Billy Johnson and his team to bring their luxury home vision to life.
AROUND TOWN
WHIZ KIDZ PRESCHOOL OPENS AHWATUKEE LOCATION
Arizona’s placard campaign to give back to the
Locally owned and operated Whiz Kidz
state’s largest sports organization for people
Preschool recently opened a new Ahwatukee
with intellectual disabilities. Guests are encour-
location at 1442 E. Chandler Blvd. Whiz Kidz
aged to make a $5 donation to the nonprofit and,
took over space previously occupied by the
in return, they will have a placard with their name
Foothills Preschool & Enrichment Center. It
proudly displayed in the store. firedpie.com;
was designed with young children in mind with
specialolympicsarizona.org
large open playgrounds and classrooms, as well as a secure entrance providing confidence for families. Standing out from Whiz Kidz’ existing
STOCKTON DERMATOLOGY CELEBRATES 21 YEARS
locations with a larger campus size, the new
Stockton Dermatology and Dr. Toni Stockton
preschool will welcome up to 170 kids for all its
have been serving Ahwatukee and the Valley of
diverse programs. whizkidzpreschool.com.
the Sun since 2000, with expertise in both derma-
FIRED PIE PARTNERS WITH SPECIAL OLYMPICS
8
Pie, will be participating in Special Olympics
tologic and aesthetic care. They offers patients the latest advances in the detection and treatment in all disorders of the skin, hair and nails.
Now through December 31, locally owned
As part of one of the only offices in the Valley
and operated fast-casual pizza concept, Fired
CONTINUED >
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
AZIP.COM Arizona Integrity Plumbing is the leading Repipe Expert™ for custom homes, track houses, and HOA managed dwellings. We specialize in replumbing polybutylene pipes (gray colored pipes known for being the most prone pipes to burst).
We provide full turn-key pipe replacement and the most comprehensive plumbing services in Ahwatukee area. Most importantly, with the Repipe Expert™ you’ll get the most skilled and professional repipe service available on the market.
Arizona Integrity Plumbing (480) 274-9662 | (480)-ARIZONA
AROUND TOWN
GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL
to offer light box therapy, Stockton practitioners have extensive knowledge and experience utilizing narrowband, broadband, UVB phototherapy, PUVA and 308 Excimer laser to treat vitiligo and
City Lifestyle
psoriasis. stocktondermatology.com
YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
SEAFOOD LOVERS' PARADISE Ahwatukee residents James and Yolanda Brown opened Chesapeake Bay Seafood Bistro this summer to rave reviews. The eatery, which specializes in “quick, healthy seafood to go,” offers fresh blue crab flown in live daily from Maryland and a selection of fish and seafood cooked to order. Diners can choose from an “off the grill” preparation with seasonings such as Old Bay and more, or “out of the fryer” with a light cornmeal batter. Salads, sandwiches, tacos and plates, as well as hush puppies, house-made Old Bay chips and more are also on the menu. chesapeakebaybistro.com 10
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
SERVICING ALL RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOANS FAMILY RUN LOCAL OFFICE 602.469.3234
STEVE GLOVER
|
|
LICENSED IN ALL STATES
www.cardinalf inancial.com/steveglover
Steve.Glover@CardinalFinancial.com
PRODUCING BRANCH MANAGER
3 930 E Ray Rd ., Ste 130, P h o e ni x , A Z 85 044
NMLS # 209781
NMLS#66247
HawtHorn Court at aHwatukee
a Memory Care Community FREE FREE Resident-made Resident-made Sugar Scrub with aScrub tour! Sugar with a tour!
1 ON 1 PERSONAL TRAINING SESSIONS CUSTOMIZED WORKOUTS NO CROWDS NO WAITING FOR EQUIPMENT
www.LPT.fitness
480-463-0364
3 PERSONAL TRAINING SESSIONS FOR $75
7890 S Hardy Dr., #115 Tempe, Arizona
Now Offering a Furnished, Shared Suite! ◆ NowSecure, Offering a Furnished, SharedLitSuite! Open and Naturally ◆ Secure, Open and Naturally Lit Neighborhoods Neighborhoods Fresh, Home-Style Meals Trained and Caring ◆ Fresh, Home-Style MealsTenured Staff ◆ Trained and Caring Tenured Staff today learnhow how we we can for your VisitVisit today andand learn canmake makea difference a difference for your family member experiencing dementia. We have a compassionate family member experiencing dementia. Weyour have a compassionate staff that wants to meet and care for loved one. staff that wants to meet and care for your loved one.
13822 Phoenix, AZ AZ 13822 South South 46th Place • Phoenix,
(480) 598-1224 598-1224 (480)
www.hawthorncourtseniorliving.com thorncourtseniorliving.com www.haw follow us on facebook follow facebook CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
11
HOT SPOT
“WE HAVE A GREAT ATMOSPHERE, AND OUR EMPLOYEES REALLY FOCUS ON CUSTOMER SERVICE. WE’RE FUN AND WELCOMING.” — HAILEY LEWIS, MANAGER
12
what
where
The Buzzed Goat Coffee Co., an independent coffee shop meets neighborhood bar
4302 E. Ray Road, Ste. 106, Ahwatukee Foothills 85044
hours
must try
7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday-Monday
The Goat, with caramel cold brew and cream ($4.25)
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
ARTICLE GERI KOEPPEL | PHOTOGRAPHY TARYN STARK
CAFFEINE MORNING OR NIGHT, THE BUZZED GOAT HAS YOUR BEVERAGE
TO COCKTAILS THE BUZZED GOAT IS A QUIRKY HYBRID THAT’S HALF
— they might spark up a conversation about anything from sports
JAVA JOINT, HALF FRIENDLY HOLE-IN-THE-WALL BAR,
to local news to tattoos.
COMPLETE WITH EVERYTHING FROM CRAFT BEERS
“It has a different vibe from most coffee shops,” says manager
TO SPECIALTY COCKTAILS. Take its best-selling eye-
Hailey Lewis. “We have a great atmosphere, and our employees
opener — The Goat, with caramel cold brew and cream —
really focus on customer service. We’re fun and welcoming.
and add vanilla vodka for the boozy version that’s the shop’s
High energy.”
namesake. Food includes pastries, bagels, quiche and avocado toast in the mornings; flatbread pizzas later.
Since it opened in October 2018, The Buzzed Goat has cemented itself as an Ahwatukee favorite, thanks in part to owner Gabriel
Tucked away in the back corner of a small strip mall on
Von Weimer’s dedication to the community. A Desert Vista grad,
Ray Road, The Buzzed Goat has become a go-to in the Tuke
he’s well known for his generosity to local fundraisers and causes.
for everything from that morning cup o’ joe to after-work happy hour. Employees and patrons alike are gregarious
While prices are reasonable anytime, the happy hour specials are a particular draw, and first responders can get free drinks. CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
13
HOMETOWN HERO
14
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
ARTICLE REBECCA L. RHOADES PHOTOGRAPHY ASHLEY ORELLANA, PHOENIX RISING
n w o t e e g a m t ho advan AHWATUKEE'S TATE SCHMITT BRINGS HIS FANCY FOOTWORK TO PHOENIX RISING
GROWING UP IN AHWATUKEE, TATE SCHMITT USED TO DREAM OF PLAYING SOCCER JUST LIKE HIS OLDER BROTHERS DID. His oldest played for Fort Lewis College in Colorado, and his middle brother was on the state’s first pro team, Arizona United. Schmitt took up the sport at age 3 and, over the years, could be found kicking the ball around Pecos Park and Tempe Sports Complex. After two years at Desert Vista High School, he transferred to Real Salt Lake Academy, the developmental department of the Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit, Real Salt Lake (RLS). The move paid off, and in 2019, the now 24-year-old signed with the pro team. This season brought Schmitt back to Arizona to play for the hometown club, Phoenix Rising. On loan from RLS, he’s been playing left back and as a central defender. “Being able to help the growth of the game in Arizona is awesome. As a kid who grew up here, I want the team to CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
15
HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)
continue to win games and trophies and increase the recognition of the players in the state who hopefully will make it to the MLS level,” he says. “Phoenix Rising is a top team in the West, so be to be able to say that I was raised in the state and am now playing for its professional soccer team is a proud and humbling experience.” Coming back to Arizona has allowed Schmitt to reconnect with his childhood stomping grounds. When he’s not on the field, the elite athlete takes advantage of Ahwatukee’s mountain surroundings. “There are so many activities that you can do within the community,” he says. “I love the outdoors. I like to hike Telegraph Pass to stay in shape.” Schmitt also enjoys dining out at Nello’s and, like any boy who grows up in the desert, searching for scorpions with a black light. But the biggest thing he says about being back in the Tuke, “is just spending time with my family.”
to e l b a g n i e of t “B n o r f n i m y a a l f p d n a s t d n n e e s i e r f pr e r d y ily an a is prett n o z i .” r e l A b a ev i l e b un
16
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
Inspired by Community
It’s time to think
locally
ADVERTISE WITH US
to deliver your message to the most affluent families in our community.
lifestylepubs.com/advertise CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
17
Made in Ahwatukee
FIREFIGHTER AND NAVY VETERAN JOE DUFFY TRANSFORMS WOOD INTO FUNCTIONAL WORKS OF ART
18
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
ARTICLE REBECCA L. RHOADES
" W oodwork tells a st ory about its creat or. Y ou c an see your work et hic and your at tention t o det ail in every piece."
STEP INTO JOE DUFFY’S AHWATUKEE
Following a stint in the Navy, during
GARAGE, AND YOU’RE GREETED NOT
which time he trained as a firefighter, Duffy
BY CARS BUT INSTEAD BY A JUMBLE OF
returned to the home remodeling industry,
WOODWORKING EQUIPMENT. Expansive
but he quickly tired of using his skills to real-
workbenches sit side-by-side with band
ize other people’s visions. Fast forward five
saws, planers, routers and myriad other
years and a career pivot to back firefighting,
machines. The walls are lined with tools.
and Duffy’s hands began to get restless.
Lumber is everywhere. “I build mostly every-
“I got bored and decided to start a side
thing right here on these tables,” Duffy says.
business. I thought ‘I’m just going to build
“I was going to get a bigger space earlier
stuff that I like and put it online,’” he says.
this year, but I don’t want to rent something
“Soon, people began inquiring about my
that’s going to give me a reason not to work.
work and wanting me to make specific
It’s nice to come out here whenever I want.”
pieces for them.” In April 2018, he formed his
By day, Duffy is a fireman for a busy South
creatively monikered LLC.
Phoenix station. While he enjoys fighting
“Woodworking is so much more fas-
fires and helping people, it’s his pastime as
cinating and precise than home remod-
a master craftsman that’s garnering him a
eling,” Duffy explains. “It has been my
loyal following of collectors and social media
channel for creativity.”
fans. Duffy is the creative mind behind The
Initially, Duffy made small tables and
Handy Fireman, a maker of custom wood
charcuterie and cutting boards, and he often
doors, tables, wall art and more.
singed the wood to give it a burnt finish. “It
Born in California and raised in Arizona’s
was a lot of trial and error,” he says, with a
Chino Valley, just north of Prescott, Duffy
laugh. “I was using a chintzy little table saw
learned early on how to build things. “We
from a local big-box store.” As his work
moved out here when I was 10. My parents
improved and demand for his creations
bought an RV trailer, and the plan was that
grew, he was able to invest in better tools
my grandpa and dad were going to build
and higher-quality wood. Today, he is spon-
our house,” he recalls. “I was able to help
sored by JET Tools, which sends him top-of-
out and be part of the team. The project
the-line products to use and review on his
lasted almost year, and I learned all of the
social media channels.
basics of construction — pouring concrete,
Duffy now focuses on crafting large
laying a foundation, framing walls, putting
tables, barn doors, Murphy beds and even
up drywall and insulation.”
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
19
MADE IN AHWATUKEE (CONTINUED)
Murphy doors — that is, secret doors often hidden within bookshelves. “I enjoy building those because they’re challenging. A barn door just needs to be built big because it’s got to cover an opening. A Murphy door has to be precise.” He also continues to make oneof-a-kind art pieces. Alternating slabs of light and dark woods, including redwood, African padauk, alder, mesquite, walnut and more, are glued and joined together without screws or nails and then hand-carved into undulating forms that are velvety-smooth to the touch. His more popular items include personalized flags, which often showcase names, military mottos and first responder emblems. “I try to build every single piece as though it’s an heirloom for my family,” Duffy remarks. “I think woodwork tells a story about its creator. You can see your work ethic and your attention to detail in every piece. I want my kids to be impressed, and I want to leave a legacy. “I think the goal for everyone is to find their passion,” he concludes. “For me, it’s woodwork. I try to put everything I have into these pieces.”
DETAILS: The Handy Fireman thehandyfireman.net letsbuild@thehandyfireman.net
20
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
21
OPEN HOUSE
house details: + 5,711 square feet + 4 bedrooms + 4.5 baths + Year built: 2020 + Features: air-conditioned 7-car garage, circular wine room, 76,000-gallon pool, outdoor fireplace, oversized granite island
ARTICLE REBECCA L. RHOADES PHOTOGRAPHY TARYN STARK
QUALITY MEETS CLASSIC STYLE IN A CUSTOM EAST VALLEY RESIDENCE
22
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
the personal touch
“ T h is is a showcase home that a l lows me to d isplay my creat iv it y as a home bu i lder.” — Bi l ly Joh nson, homeow ner
BILLY JOHNSON HAS BEEN CONSTRUCTING CUSTOM
with soothing travertine pavers and a wall of bubbling scup-
HOMES IN THE VALLEY OF THE SUN FOR MORE THAN 36
pers that blocks out nearby neighbors. Just inside the front
YEARS. So when he decided to build his own residence, he knew
entrance is one of the home’s most unique features — and one
exactly what he wanted and how to go about achieving it. The
of Johnson’s favorite: a circular wine cellar.
result is a 5,700-square-foot traditional Mediterranean/Tuscan-
“The large great room is certainly catches your eye from the
style masterpiece filled with high-end finishes, one-of-a-kind
moment you enter the house,” Johnson notes, adding that “home-
touches and all the amenities that any discerning homeowner
owners no longer want dining rooms or formal living areas. And
could possibly want.
the round wine cellar with its custom cabinets and hand-painted
“I had lived in my previous house, which I also designed and
ceiling is a unique focal point.”
built, for 20 years,” says Johnson, owner of Amberwood Homes. “I
Wide hallways lead to the owners’ suite to the right and a wing
wanted this home to showcase my style as a custom home builder.
of guest rooms to the left. “I built the hallways to serve as art galler-
My meticulous attention to detail is displayed in every room.”
ies as you walk through the home,” Johnson explains. “By opening
Guests are greeted by a spacious foyer that opens to an
up these passageways, you give the house a completely different
expansive great room with high beamed ceilings and banks
look. They enhance the home and makes it look bigger than what
of French doors that lead to a glamorous pool patio, complete
it is. They also allow you to create various artistic vignettes that CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
23
OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)
“It cer ta i n ly is more ex pensive to bu i ld
ci rcu la r rooms, but si nce I was creat i ng th is home for mysel f, I added the
ci rcu la r master shower
a nd w i ne ca l ler to set the house apa r t f rom other
custom residences. R ou nd for ms a re more at t ract ive a nd com for ta ble tha n
sq ua res or recta ng les.”
— Billy Johnson, homeowner
can provoke conversations with your guests.” Johnson,
artist come in paint an atlas on the ceiling, and it’s stocked
an avid hunter, has filled his rooms and hallways with his
with every kind of wine you can imagine.”
many hunting trophies that he’s acquired over the years.
cept kitchen. Here, Johnson’s attention to detail is dis-
Johnson on the home’s design from the initial stages. “Billy
played in the massive granite countertop. The grain of the
has built thousands of homes, and he’s such a detailed
stone aligns perfectly with matching wall unit counters
perfectionist,” she says. “Most of his designs feature the
and continues up on the backsplash in one singular flow-
Tuscan look. They have a turret in front, or two turrets.
ing line that creates a sense of visual calmness guests
With this house, he wanted to modernize it, so instead of
can feel, often without realizing why. “That took 11 slabs
using stone, he covered it in stucco for a more sleek finish.
to create. That’s a lot of granite,” Jorgensen exclaims. “We
“The wine room is so unique. It’s one of the really spec-
searched a long time for just the right stone, but once Billy
tacular features about this house,” she continues. “I had an 24
An oversized island is the centerpiece of the open-con-
Interior designer Debbie Jorgensen worked with
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
saw this, that was it. He knew what he wanted.”
The master suite, which Johnson refers to as “The Lion’s
For Johnson and Jorgensen, the exteriors were just as
Den” is a study in sumptuousness. The regal king-size
important as the interiors. “The back patio is a main fea-
canopy bed is dwarfed by the room’s massive size. Rich
ture of the house that really sets it apart from other custom
wood tones, dark leathers and animal prints are comple-
homes,” the homeowner points out. The sparkling ceru-
mented by the neutral Venetian plaster walls and wall-
lean pool spa and surrounding lush greenery pop against
to-wall carpeting that features an organic design that is
the soft sandy hues of the travertine decking. A large
echoed by the deer antler chandelier.
outdoor kitchen, built-in stainless steel appliances and
The lion theme carries into the luxurious master bath-
double-sided fireplace support year-round entertaining.
room, which features a show-stopping circular steam
“From the back patio overlooking the pool, to the over-
shower with a custom lion head motif in the tile flooring.
sized great room — even the air-conditioned garage —
Silver lion head drawer pulls decorate the dual vanity, and
every spot in this custom home is enjoyable to spend time
safari prints dominate the furnishings and throw rugs.
in,” Johnson says. “It is luxury resort-style living at its finest.” CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
25
CULINARY CREATIONS
THE SECRET'S IN T H E S AU C E
ONE OF AHWATUKEE’S FAVORITE PLACES TO BRUNCH IS HILLSIDE SPOT, AND ONE OF ITS MOST POPULAR ITEMS IS THE CHILAQUILES VERDE. As anyone knows, the key to making this dish mind-blowing (rather than just serviceable) is the sauce. Though the exact ingredients are proprietary, the restaurant uses its own homemade ranchero sauce made with tomatillos roasted on the rotisserie grill. Neighborhood regulars keep coming back for the Hillside’s Southwestern fare, concise but well-curated beer and wine options, and casual yet cosmopolitan ambiance. Chilaquiles Verde has been on the menu since Hillside Spot opened nearly 12 years ago, quickly entrenching itself as a hit and taking its rightful place on the all-day menu. For more information, visit Hillside Spot, 4740 E. Warner Road, (480) 705-7768, hillsidespot.com
HILLSIDE SPOT'S CHILAQUILES VERDE BRINGS THE FLAVOR ARTICLE GERI KOEPPEL PHOTOGRAPHY TARYN STARK
26
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
HILLSIDE SPOT'S CHILAQUILES VERDE
Prepare and shred chicken. At Hillside Spot, the chicken is cooked on a rotisserie grill over a mixture of mesquite and pecan wood. Warm ranchero sauce on low until heated through. Top 2 tostada shells with shredded chicken and 1.5 ounce Oaxaca cheese (you can substitute with a low-moisture mozzarella if Oaxaca cheese is unavailable). Leave third tostada shell bare. Place all 3 tostada shells on a cookie sheet and bake at 375 degrees
ingredient s
+ 1 cup ranchero sauce
for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and shells start to brown.
+ 3 corn tortilla tostada shells + 1/2 cooked chicken breast, shredded
While tostada shells are baking, prepare egg to your liking. For over-easy, make sure whites are thoroughly cooked.
+ 4 ounces Oaxaca cheese, shredded + 1 large egg, cooked to your liking
Remove tostadas from oven and assemble. Layer the chicken-topped tostada shells on top of each other; cover with bare tostada shell. Place cooked egg on tostada tower. Pour ranchero sauce over tostadas and egg, and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
direc t ions CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
27
LOCAL’S CHOICE
WON'T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR? GET TO KNOW AHWATUKEE RESIDENT ERIC KINNEMAN AS HE SHARES SOME OF HIS FAVORITE THINGS
COCOONED IN THE SOUTHERN FOOT-
a mortgage loan, he and his family can
HILLS OF ARIZONA’S SOUTH MOUNTAINS,
be found outdoors. Canyoneering, trail
AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE OF DOWN-
running and mountain climbing are just
TOWN PHOENIX, AHWATUKEE IS AN OUT-
a few of his passions.
DOOR-LOVERS’ PARADISE. It’s quite neigh-
“There are many things I like about
borhoods, open spaces and miles of desert
living in Ahwatukee,” he says. “I like the
trails are just some of the things that attracted
concept that it seems to be a village that
Eric Kinneman, who moved to Phoenix from
is separate from the main city of Phoenix,
Pennsylvania in 1996.
and I absolutely love having quick access
When Kinneman, a branch manager for LendSmart Mortgage, isn’t helping homebuyers navigate through the tumultuous task of obtaining
to South Mountain for running and hiking.” Get to know your Ahwatukee neighbor as he shares some of his favorite things in life.
ARTICLE REBECCA L. RHOADES
28
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
TRAIL RUNNING
BOARD SHORTS
THEME PARKS
“My love for the mountains has transi-
This is my favorite go-to article of
My family hits at least one theme park
tioned me into a trail runner, running
clothing. They’re durable, stretchy,
each summer vacation. Roller coast-
six days a week whether on the road
quick-drying
for
ers, thrill rides and the excitement of
almost everything the desert can
a theme park epitomize a great family
throw at you.
vacation for us.
OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND
WRESTLING/ FITNESS
RACE DAY
I grew up on the East Coast, and
I was a wrestler when I was growing
I love participating in races. 5k,
this place was a yearly retreat for my
up in Pennsylvania. Now, both of my
Spartans, Tough Mudders, trail runs —
family — a little slice of heaven as we
kids are involved with year-round
really anything that the kids and I can
thought of it when we were kids. Now,
club wrestling. I now help coach my
fit it into our busy schedules, we try to
I take my wife and children there, and
kids. You can usually find us at the
do. There is something special about
they absolutely love it.
Thorobred Wrestling Club or Chandler
finish lines and celebratory time.
or treadmill or on a trail.”
and
adaptable
MMA, both in nearby Chandler.
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
29
INSPIRED BY BEN HIGGINS TALKS COFFEE, HOPE & HUMANITY, AND WHAT IT MEANS TO BE THANKFUL
Living a Purposeful Life
PROBABLY BEST KNOWN FOR BEING LEAD #20 IN THE BACHELOR, THERE IS SO MUCH MORE TO BEN HIGGINS THAN BEING ONE OF AMERICA’S REALITY TV SWEETHEARTS, SUCH AS HIS DEEP PASSION FOR MAKING MOVES TO “MULTIPLY GOOD IN THE WORLD.” PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED 30
Since his time on The Bachelor, Ben has taken the opportunity to use his fame to create not one, but two inspiring podcasts, publish a successful autobiography, while also elevating awareness of his “for-purpose” Generous Coffee brand. We sat down with him (virtually) to reflect on all that he has accomplished in this season of “thankfulness.”
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
CL: WHAT DOES THE TERM ‘THANKFUL’ OR ‘GRATEFUL’ MEAN TO YOU?
Plus, we believe that people enjoy drinking life-changing coffee that has a story behind it over their regular cup of coffee.
BH: It may sound corny and cliche, but when I think of gratitude, it’s an every day break to look at where my life
CL: WHAT ARE YOUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PEOPLE TO GIVE
sits and to be thankful for the friends and family around
BACK IN THEIR COMMUNITY?
me and the things that I am able to be a part of.
BH: I think everybody can figure out what they can do in their local communities by asking the same question: What is it around me that makes me the
CL: TELL US ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE MOST PROUD
angriest? Maybe it’s people without homes, maybe it’s animals or the environ-
OF OR INSPIRED BY?
ment. What emotional pull is it? Go after that.
BH: I just want to be a part of really cool stories that I believe are good and healing. And my filter on whether
Plus, you can do that sitting on your couch drinking a great cup of Generous Coffee.
they are good or not comes from my faith. I just want to be a part of loving others and loving God well.
With over 1.2mm Instagram followers, Ben Higgins is co-founder of @generous_ coffee_, author of #AloneinPlainSight, host of @hopestillwins, and co-host of @
CL: HOW DID GENEROUS COFFEE BEGIN?
almost_famouspodcast.
BH: The idea came in July of 2017 and we launched in January of 2018. When the show [The Bachelor] happened, our fundraising increased 500%, but we also knew that it probably wasn’t going to last. We asked ourselves how we can make this more sustainable, and we came up with the idea that we could start a for-profit business and call ourselves “for-purpose.” We donate 100% of our profits to non-profits.
We believe that people enjoy drinking lifechanging coffee that has a story behind it over their regular cup of coffee.
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
31
NICOLE STEVENS REALTOR
YOUR WAY HOME Nicole Stevens, Realtor
602.810.4825 NicoleStevensRealtor.org SA652967000
REALTY REPORT
AHWATUKEE
REALTY REPORT
NEIGHBORHOOD
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
DOM
BDRMS
BATHS
Foothills Club West
$395,000
$405,000
102.47
35
3
2.5
Mirage
$386,000
$433,000
110.85
14
3
1.75
Oasis at the Foothills
$489,900
$510,000
103.94
4
4
3
Mountain Park Ranch
$589,900
$553,500
93.42
28
4
2
PARCEL 11-C PHASE 2 AT THE FOOTHILLS
$775,000
$801,000
103.25
10
5
3.5
Canyon Estates
$799,000
$805,000
100.75
42
5
2.5
Granite Pass at the Foothills
$800,000
$930,000
113.98
5
5
4
FOOTHILLS 80
$1,250,000
$1,050,000
80.95
51
5
4.5
Clubhouse Estates at the Foothills
$1,195,000
$1,150,000
96.09
21
4
3
Foothills Club West
$1,249,999
$1,150,000
91.30
143
4
4
Ahwatukee Custom Estates
$1,350,000
$1,375,000
101.82
26
4
4.5
Mountain Park Ranch
$899,000
$889,500
98.93
57
5
3.5
Foothills Club West
$799,000
$825,000
103.15
4
4
3
Candleridge
$800,000
$805,000
100.62
5
4
2.5
NICOLE STEVENS REALTOR
Call for a complimentary market analysis of your home
ARE YOU CONSIDERING BUYING OR SELLING REAL ESTATE? 602.810.4825 ◆ NicoleStevensRealtor.org ◆ LIC#SA65296700
CityLifestyle.com/Ahwatukee
33
NOVEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
SUNDAYS
Nov. 11. The company also offers a
to the Pumpkin King’s liking. $35/
10% discount year-round to veter-
person. drinkmetearoom.com
AHWATUKEE FARMERS’ MARKET
person only. firedpie.com
ans. This deal is valid for one per
Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center, 4700 Warner Road
You’ll find the freshest local seasonal produce, herbs, flowers, value-added
14
IMPACT AWARDS
Sheraton Four Points Ahwatukee,
AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE STUDIO COMPANY
10831 S. 51st St.
Madison Center for the Arts, 5601
of
North 16th Street, Phoenix
with Women in Business and the
6
American Ballet Theatre has earned
Ahwatukee Community Foundation,
a reputation for both the diversity and
honors students, women and vet-
2021 JDRF PROMISE BALL GALA
quality of its touring productions. ABT
eran families. Five scholarships will
foods, fresh baked goods, natural meats and seafood, as well as a selection of local arts and crafts. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber Commerce,
in
partnership
has toured the most of any ballet com-
be awarded. Tickets are available at
JW Marriott Desert Ridge, 5350 E.
pany and is excited to bring their perfor-
ahwatukeechamber.com.
Marriott Drive, Phoenix
mance to Phoenix. Tickets begin at $55
JDRF Desert West’s Promise Ball
and are available at themadison.org.
Gala has been recognized as one of Phoenix's Top 5 black-tie events and raises funds in support of JDRF’s mission to find cures for type 1 diabe-
23
DEC 2-5 SANTA’S CIRCUS
Madison Center for the Arts, 5601
WINE FESTIVAL
North 16th Street, Phoenix
My Wine Cellar, 5030 E. Warner Road
This brand new, spectacular Christmas-
live entertainment. For more informa-
My Wine Cellar hosts its fourth annual
themed circus comes to Arizona for the
tion, visit jdrf.org/desertwest.
Wine Festival, one of Ahwatukee’s
first time. Meet and greet your favorite
premier social events. Five distributors
Christmas characters and write your
NOV 7-JAN 31
will each pour four “turkey-friendly”
own letter to Santa with the help of Mrs.
wines ideal for Thanksgiving and
Claus. Celebrate the wonder and joy of
ZOOLIGHTS
other holiday dinners, all of which will
the holidays, with lasting memories of
tes. This event includes live and silent auctions, dinner, a call to action and
be available for purchase at a discount
fun, laughter and special family time.
Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway,
on that day. Singer/songwriter Blaine
Tickets begin at $55 and are available at
Phoenix
Long will perform. Tickets are $20 in
themadison.org.
The Valley’s most cherished holiday
advance/$25 at the door. Call (480)
tradition is back with millions of twin-
598-9463 to reserve.
kling lights, dazzling animal sculptures and the Wildlife Lantern Safari, featuring 66 creatures. This year adds Cruise ZooLights, a drive-thru expe-
NOV 26-DEC 5
DEC 4 FUELFEST
Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park,
“NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS” TEA PARTY
20000 S. Maricopa Road, Chandler
Drink Me! Tea Room, 1730 E. Warner
headed to the Valley of the Sun!
11
Road, Tempe
This event blends the automotive
Join the Pumpkin King and celebrate
world with celebrities, live music,
FREE ENTREE FOR VETERANS
the best of two holiday worlds as
food, drinks and art. A portion of the
rience. Tickets are $20 and must be purchased at phoenixzoo.org.
34
DEC 2
Get
ready
Arizona,
FuelFest
is
Drink Me! Tea Room hosts a spe-
proceeds benefits Reach Out, the
Fired Pie, Ahwatukee Foothills Towne
cial literary tea party based on Tim
nonprofit charity founded by actor
Center, 4905 E. Ray Road
Burton’s beloved animated fantasy
Paul Walker and continued on by his
Fired Pie will be offering a free
film. Guests will enjoy a pot of tea and
brother Cody Walker. Headlining the
entrée to all vets who show their ID
a tray of plant-based and gluten-free
show is Walker’s “Fast and Furious”
or are in uniform on Veterans Day,
savories and sweets that are themed
co-star Tyrese Gibson. fuelfest.com
City Lifestyle Ahwatukee | November 2021
better LENDERS better LOANS YOUR TRUSTED MORTGAGE SOURCE
Your Local Community Direct Lender. Lives in Ahwatukee and Office in Ahwatukee. We understand the local Market better! We/I know our Community and we/I Love our Community.
(602) 757-2171 www.erickinnemanloans.com 10429 South 51st St Ste 255 Phoenix, AZ 85044
Let Savvy Let Savvy Solutions bring Solutions bring you home. you home. • • • • • • • • •
Ahwatukee resident for 15 years Ahwatukee residentreal for 15 years Relationship-driven estate ... you’re more than just a transaction Relationship-driven real estate . . . you’re moresolutions, than just afrom transaction End-to-end staging to SOLD End-to-end solutions, from staging to SOLD of resources to help buyers Network achieve home of their dreams Networkthe of resources to help buyers achieve the home of their dreams Delivers a personalized, luxurious experience regardless of the listing price Delivers a personalized, luxurious experience regardless of the listing price
Visit our website for a complimentary home evaluation Visit our website for a complimentary home evaluation SAVVYREALTYAZ.COM
SAVVYREALTYAZ.COM