Paradise Valley, AZ November 2025

FALL IN LOVE WITH THE DESERT

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Set against Camelback Mountain, this 2020 modern estate is designed for connection — expansive livin g spaces, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and a resortstyle pool built for evenings that linger. Whether hosting a dinner under desert skies or retreating t o your private spa suite, this home turns every November night into an event.

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The Regenokine Program Has Arrived in Scottsdale

Once reserved for the world’s elite- from Kobe Bryant to Alex Rodriguez- the groundbreaking Regenokine Program is now available locally with Dr. Ashu Goyle, one of only a few U.S. physicians trained and approved to perform the procedure, and the only provider in Arizona.

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LETTER

Rocking a Thankful Heart

It’s our Thankful Issue, and we’re celebrating in a big way... 50 years of KISS, with Gene Simmons rocking our cover. I had the honor and pleasure of interviewing the legend for my podcast. Let’s just say, I didn’t know whether to laugh or turn beat red. It was one of the most unforgettable conversations I’ve had full of candor and honesty. Gene grew up with nothing... and I mean nothing. And at the heart of his story is his mom- the source of his strength, values, and drive.

Beyond Gene, this issue dives into athlete stories of giving back, and shines light on the people behind incredible foundations. Some stories will make you smile and some may make you cry. To be honest, I had a hard time writing a few of these editorials because of the weight and openness of what was shared. Which brings me to the theme of thankfulness.

As we embark on Thanksgiving, one of my favorite holidays, I’m reminded of how powerful gratitude can be. It’s simply a day to pause, gather, and reflect.

Before anything else, I am a mom first. To my boys- who have instilled in me a love I never knew possible- I am endlessly thankful. And though my husband would prefer no shoutout, I can’t help but say how grateful I am for his unconditional love and immense support. I am thankful for the village that embraces our family as their own, and for the community I once only dreamt of being part of.

Our City Scene section is dedicated to our annual September Style Issue Soirée, lovingly hosted at the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain's Jade Bar. Overlooking the very best Valley views, we gathered with our PVCL partners, friends, and community members; a true embrace of  support and celebration. I am so grateful to the Sanctuary for opening their doors to our PVCL family and creating a beautiful evening full of joy.

I am also thankful to our PVCL partners for their trust. I say it often, but it’s true: I aim to treat our partners with TLC, because when someone entrusts us as their media partner, it’s more than business. It’s friendship. And I never want to let a friend down.

Most of all, I’m thankful for you... for reading, engaging, supporting, and embracing PVCL with such love and encouragement. You’ve allowed us to be more than a magazine, but a family and community I carry deeply in my heart.

And to our veterans, thank you.

NADINE BUBECK, PUBLISHER @PARADISEVALLEYCITYLIFESTYLE

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November 2025

PUBLISHER

Nadine Bubeck | nadine.bubeck@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Maddox Cherry | maddox.cherry@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Scottsdale Event Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

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city scene

1:

PV Mayor Mark Stanton and wife Barb, PVCL’s Annual September Soirée- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 2: Dr. Adam Loiacono, Dr. Ashu Goyle, Dr. Brook Choulet, Dr. Heather Saran, Dr. Michael Wolff 3: Debbie Sinani (Realtor), Artist Cyn Silva- PVCL’s Annual September Soirée, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 4: NBC 12’s Krystle Long & Destry Jetton with Lisa Moore & Lexy Romano- Jade Bar/Sanctuary 5: With Katie Wilson (Garage Boutique and Concept Store), PVCL’s Annual September Soirée, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 6: With PVCL Partners Simple Bliss Designs, Cordially Phoenix, Christy Alvarado Designs- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 7: Nadine Bubeck, Hillary Leto, Lorraine Tallman (Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels), Nadia Shah Bradley Photography by Scottsdale Event Photography

8:

Annual September Soirée- Sanctuary

Annual September Soirée-

Camelback

Annual September Soirée- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain) Photography by Scottsdale Event Photography

PVCL Partners Dr. Sharon Stills & Mel (Lasting Wellness Center- coming soon!) 9: With PVCL Partners: Sunstone Wealth Management, The Foundress, Luxe Baby Care, Urbanwalls- Sanctuary Camelback MountainChef 10: PVCL’s Nadine Bubeck and PVCL partner Larry Smith Fitness (Club Larry)- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 11: With Nick Lowery (former NFL)- PVCL’s

Camelback Mountain 12: PVCL partner Cat Cantrill (The Scottsdale Matchmaker), PVCL’s

Sanctuary

Mountain 13: Guestlist Founder Ryan Gizinski & Bob Woolf, former Suns Gorilla 30+ years- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 14: DJ Dave Leden, Groove Mobile DJ (PVCL’s

15: Laura McIver, Managing Director, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain (Thank you for hosting such an amazing evening!) 16: With PVCL partners Robert Mulvin (All Pro Shades) & Mary Chen Realtor, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 17: Roxi McNabb (Caris Sports Foundation) & Nadine Bubeck, PVCL’s Annual September Soirée- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 18: Blake Van Es, Meghan Alfonso, Payton Whitmore- PVCL’s Annual September Soirée, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 19: Lisa Moore (Saks Fifth Avenue Club Stylist) with PVCL Partner Hope Pack (Truly Dermatology) 20: NBC 12’s Krystal Long & Anchor/Reporter Rachel Cole, Jen

Lindsey

21: Tina Rodrigues & Meghan Stebens- Alzheimer’s Association, Desert Southwest Chapter- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Photography by Scottsdale Event

Moser, Lisa Moore,

Tamblyn

’TIS THE SEASON TO TABLESCAPE

From

Founder

Every

22: Johnjay and Blake Van Es (The Johnjay & Rich Show/#LoveUp & #LovePup Foundation) 23: NBC 12 Sports Anchor Cam Cox & former NFL Nick Lowery (Chiefs, Jets, Patriots) 24: Leah Bold Mondlick (PCH Beach Ball Co-Chair), Jillian Enfield (Phoenix Valley Soccer Club), Nadine Bubeck 25: PVCL partners enjoying our Annual September Soirée at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 26: Vicki Vaughn & Lorraine Tallman (Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels), Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 27: Chef Gregory James (Sanctuary Camelback Mountain) with Chef Peter McQuaid and Chef Beau MacMillan 28: PVCL partners Avi and Sheri Azoulay (Regal American Homes), Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Photography

State Forty Eight & Tinker Development enjoying PVCL’s Annual September Soirée at Sanctuary

Premier

& Jason A Monczka

Group Insurance), Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 31: PVCL partners Mila

MD (Luxury

Medicine) & Yousra Arora (Arora Eye), Sanctuary Resort 32: Myranda Fine Jewelry swag bags at the PVCL’s Annual September Soirée, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 33: Lisa Moore (Saks Stylist) & Robin Grossman (Store Manager, Sanctuary Retail Boutique) 34: Erik and Kirsten Tinker (PVCL partners Tinker Development), Sanctuary Camelback Mountain 35: Grateful to The Sanctuary for hosting such a memorable evening of love, laughter, and joy Photography by Scottsdale Event Photography

29:

Camelback Mountain 30: Kevin Hunter (American

Builder)

(Pomeroy

Lopez,

Lifestyle

Thankful For 25 Years Advertisement

By Katie Wilson

This year marks 25 years of Garage Boutique & Concept Store, a milestone that fills me with gratitude and deep appreciation. When I first opened our doors in Scottsdale, I could never have imagined the incredible journey ahead.

To our customers, families, and friends who have supported us since day one: thank you. You’ve become part of my story, and I’ve become part of yours. Watching generations grow up through this boutique has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

Garage was built on heart... a place where fashion meets family and style meets soul. But more than anything, it has always been about community. Over the years, I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to give back through causes that support children and families, including PANDA, Make-A-Wish Arizona, Childhelp, The Ronan Thompson Foundation and many more. It is my passion to give back to the community that has given so much to me, and continues to be so good to me.

As we celebrate this silver anniversary, I’m reminded that true success isn’t measured in trends or transactions, it’s measured in connection, kindness, and the ability to make someone feel special.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for 25 extraordinary years.

Here’s to the next chapter, together.

Founder Garage Boutique & Concept Store

Glam, Grit & Good Company: What She Said: Nov 20–21

Step into glamour, inspiration, and connection at Modern Day Wife & W Scottsdale’s “What She Said." Taking place Thursday, November 20th and Friday, November 21st, the event features the best in fashion, beauty, networking, speaker panels, a runway of resort and designer looks, and immersive brand activations. Join as PVCL’s Nadine Bubeck moderates the Business & Entrepreneur Q&A. Want a FREE general admission ticket? Email  nadine.bubeck@citylifestyle.com

6,105

Sep 2023 = 21 Sep 2024 = 32 Sep 2025 = 48 Sep 2023 = 62 Sep 2024 = 96 Sep

ARTICLE BY NADINE BUBECK | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Thankful for 50 years of KISS

Gene Simmons: Still Made for Rockin’ You

When I sat down to interview Gene Simmons for my podcast Now with Nadine, I didn’t even get a chance to finish my intro. The moment we logged on, he dove straight into a conversation about KISS undergarments (and that’s me putting it politely for print). From there, the interview spun into a wild, unfiltered ride.

Gene Simmons is more than the fire-breathing, tongue-wagging frontman of KISS... he’s the co-founder of one of the most iconic rock bands in history, a bestselling author, reality-TV star, and entrepreneur with restaurants, casinos, and film projects under his belt. Yet behind the makeup and the bravado is the son of a Holocaust survivor, a family man, and a relentless storyteller who has been shaping pop culture for over half a century.

What follows is a Q&A dedicated to celebrating 50 years of KISS as the band marks its golden anniversary in Las Vegas (road trip, anyone?).

BEFORE MY PRODUCERS PRESSED RECORD, YOU WERE SINGING A SONG WITH MY NAME IN IT. WHEN YOU FIRST CAME TO AMERICA, WHAT WAS THE VERY FIRST MUSIC YOU HEARD (WHICH FEELS PRETTY FITTING FOR THIS CONVERSATION)?

Strangely, when I first came to America, the first music I heard was not the Beatles or the British Invasion or anything like that. It was Chuck Berry, Little Richard, and so on… Black music, where it all started.

YOU EVEN HAD A CHUCK BERRY MOMENT YEARS LATER.

My solo band, Gene Simmons Band, was playing a gig in middle America. The day after, before I left, I found out at the very same place we played, they were holding the Chuck Berry memorial funeral with an open casket and invited guests. The Berry family asked me to do the eulogy. Really.

It’s on Google and Schmugel. There I am getting all choked up because without Chuck Berry, you couldn’t have rock and roll and the Beatles and the Stones and even Hendrix.

GROWING UP IN ISRAEL AS LITTLE GENE, DID YOU HAVE BIG DREAMS OF BECOMING A ROCK STAR?

No. I knew nothing about it. It was a new country. I was born in 1949. Maybe it was 1849 now that I think of it. Of course, these are semantics, and we all know I’m not anti-semantic.

WHAT WAS LIFE LIKE IN ISRAEL BACK THEN?

I never heard of television. We didn’t have a radio. There was one bedroom with a little sink and a little gas thing where you could heat up stuff. We didn’t have a refrigerator. There was an ice box. The bathroom was a hole in the ground outside.

AND WHEN YOU DID FINALLY COME TO AMERICA…

When I was eight and a half years of age and came to America… stunned is not even the word. You may as well have landed on another planet. There was a huge piece of furniture six feet long. On one side was booze, things to drink. On the other side, plates or whatever. But in the middle, a screen. I didn’t know what television was. We walked into my Uncle George’s house, and there was a close-up of a man’s head reading the news. I thought there was a guy in the box.

LATER YOU DISCOVERED SUPERHEROES. DID THAT FLIP A SWITCH?

At my Aunt Magda’s house, I saw Superman flying through the air. My jaw just hung. And then I found out Superman, Batman, and all the other superheroes were created by our people as well, literally without exception… the Hulk, the Fantastic Four, Thor.

CONTINUED >

DID THAT REALIZATION SHAPE HOW YOU SEE PEOPLE?

I never cared about people’s backgrounds, religions, racial stuff. You’re just born… your religion is handed to you, your nationality is handed to you, you have very few choices in life. I judge people by their character.

YOUR MOTHER SURVIVED THE HOLOCAUST.

Yes. She was 11 years of age in Nazi Germany concentration camps. I don’t think we should whitewash history. Germany gave us such amazing things- Einstein, and of course he was Jewish as it happens- and a lot of other technological advancements. They were the most advanced, most educated people in all of Europe. And then they declared war; lunacy and madness can take over the consciousness even of the most educated people.

There’s nature and nurture. I believe a lot more in nurture; whatever you start writing in your formative years will determine to a great extent what’s going to happen to you. Although, of course, you always have a choice.

WHAT MEMORY DO YOU REVISIT MOST OFTEN?

My mother. My mother’s always with me. She lived to be 94 glorious years of age. What a survivor. Everything I am, everything I learned, my sense of what’s important in life all came from my mother. The sense of what she gave me is: every day above ground is a good day. Whatever you’re complaining about, it’s all relative. You complain about traffic jams or bad hair days. Go live in Africa. Good luck to you.

Now, we have nothing to complain about... nothing. During COVID, you know, we didn’t see daylight for a while. Oh, did you have enough to eat? You spoiled brat. Shut up. Yeah, we have nothing to complain about.

HOW DID YOU LEARN ENGLISH AND FIND YOUR FOOTING?

I went to school and copied the sound of broadcasters on television. Because when you went outside, people talked differently. I realized, dress British, think Yiddish. Walk, talk, and dress like the people who are more successful than you are.

BEFORE MUSIC TOOK OFF, YOU WERE A TEACHER.

I used to be a sixth-grade teacher in Spanish Harlem. I loved it. Kids keep you on your toes.

AND THEN YOU EVEN WORKED AT VOGUE.

Kate Lloyd was the editor, and I was the only male on the floor. Imagine that... so many females wanting attention! I was just there to help. A good Samaritan. But it also paid, and that mattered. After Vogue, I’d work nights at a Jewish deli, then rehearse with Wicked Lester. Nonstop. Don’t look at the clock; just work.

WHEN DID MUSIC HIT YOU SO HARD IT CHANGED EVERYTHING?

The Ed Sullivan Show. Half of America was watching. Suddenly the Beatles came on. You could barely hear the music because the camera turned on the fans. Girls were screaming.

TAKE ME THROUGH THE GRIND BEFORE KISS.

I always worked. Newspaper delivery, butcher shop… Then started rehearsing with a band called Wicked Lester on 23rd Street. Wicked Lester actually got a record deal… By 23, I amassed $23,000 after tax. That was enormous.

HOW DID KISS ACTUALLY COME TOGETHER… AND WHY THE NAME?

We started writing new songs: “Strutter,” “Deuce,” “Black Diamond.” But Wicked Lester didn’t sound good playing them. So we fired the band. We put an ad in the Village Voice, and Rolling Stone seeking a drummer and lead guitar… KISS was born pretty fast. We were driving in Paul’s Mustang- I didn’t start driving until I was in my 30s- and Paul sort of shrugged and said, “How about KISS?” To me, it sounded a little feminine. But then I went, “Wait, what?” KISS... like “kiss of death” or KISS can be soft-hearted. And we immediately liked it.

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THE MAKEUP MYTH: WHOSE IDEA WAS IT AND HOW DID THE LOOKS HAPPEN?

Nobody can lay claim to it… “Let’s go down to Woolworth’s.” We seemed to instinctively buy clown white… We also bought a $15 mirror… very Twilight Zoney… I remember we all started just putting on makeup and looking at each other and getting off on what was happening… Everybody designed their own makeup except Paul didn’t know what to do… It might have been Ace who turned around to him and said, “Well, you always wanted to be a rock star. Why don’t you put a star on you, over your eye?” He goes, “Oh.” And that’s how it happened.

YOUR OWN LOOK PULLS FROM HORROR AND SILENT FILM.

For nobody else in the band except yours truly… When I started buying Famous Monsters of Filmland Castle of Frankenstein … the Universal black and white movies, The Wolfman and Dracula … I distinctly remember… Phantom of the Opera with Lon Chaney Sr… She unmasks him… people used to faint… I’ll never forget that face… It reminded me of the shadows on the face. That’s what I tried to do.

WHAT WAS THE FIRST “WE MIGHT BE HUGE” MOMENT?

It happened very fast… four shows in Canada… We’re nobody… The first flashpot goes off- BOOM- in a song I wrote called “Deuce”… Some of the people ran out! We got back to the Holiday Inn at night and there was a room full of chicks waiting for us.

THAT’S WHEN YOU KNEW.

I’ll never forget that very first night. A girl with green hair and drop-dead gorgeous wanted to hang just because I was in a band. That’s when I knew.

YOUR FIRST REAL CHART HIT?

We never had hits. We had what was called radio hits… But it wasn’t until “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” which became a number one song around the world… that was a legitimate hit.

FIFTY YEARS OF KISS, NOW BEING CELEBRATED IN VEGAS; HOW DOES THAT FEEL?

It’s happening this month (November 14-16, 2025). I’ll be there with Paul and Tommy. It’s going to be an awesome event. So grateful. ( kisskruisevegas.com)

YOU’VE RAISED A LOT OF MONEY FOR KIDS AND VETERANS. WHERE DOES THAT IMPULSE COME FROM?

I remember when we were in Israel and a care package showed up anonymously… It was peaches. We didn’t even have a can opener. My mother took a big rock and smashed it open… my first taste of that nectar… And then I finally thought that somebody in the world cared about us.

Gratitude Beyond Measure. Care Beyond Expectation.

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• Give yourself credit: Be grateful for your own strength & kindness. Recognize the incredible, selfless work you do every single day.

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YOU’VE SAID YOU NEVER NEEDED DRUGS OR BOOZE…

And then like a vulture, I just wait on the sides for all the idiots to get drunk and then just swoop in… that’s the way to do it. No drugs, no booze. To this day, I can hold my hand in front of my face and it doesn’t shake. Kids, don’t do drugs. Don’t smoke. Don’t do any of that crap. It’s like putting sand in your fuel and pouring it into your car. See how well it runs. It doesn’t work.

WHAT’S THE SECRET TO A LONG, HAPPY MARRIAGE?

Guys should wake up in the morning and just say, I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. And thank you. It’s all my fault.

YOU’VE BEEN WITH SHANNON FOR DECADES.

We’ve been together 41 years. But for the first 29 of those years, anything under the term bad that you can imagine, I did. And look at her. She stayed. That is why she’s a higher life form than I will ever be. She is the moral compass of the family. I’m smart and well-educated, but she’s much wiser than I’ll ever be. And beautiful.

SHE EVEN WALKED IN DURING OUR INTERVIEW…

Yeah, she didn’t care that we were doing a Zoom. She walked in with potato salad and told me, “Here’s some food and the dog’s been gone a while.” That’s her. She knows me, she knows I’m hungry, and she doesn’t care what else is going on. That’s why we work.

AFTER FIVE MILLION INTERVIEWS, WHAT STILL MATTERS MOST WHEN YOUR HEAD HITS THE PILLOW?

It’s going to be a corny. Living in America, having your health and having enough money for a roof over your head and food in your belly. Having a great family. Nick and Sophie are fantastic. All you’ve got to do is be gracious.

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AQ Shipley: Full Circle

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY AQ SHIPLEY

On Sunday afternoons in the Valley, his voice now cuts through the airwaves. AQ Shipley, once the Cardinals’ rocksolid center, is back with the team; not in pads, but in the booth as the organization’s new radio analyst.

He’s following in the footsteps of Ron Wolfley, the iconic voice Cardinals fans leaned on for nearly 25 years.

“I’m not going to emulate Ron... I’m just fair, honest, and call it how I see it. Hopefully people like it.”

For a guy who spent a decade protecting quarterbacks and celebrating wins on plane rides home with teammates, the booth is a new field, but one that feels natural.

“It’s fun. I wish my voice was more of a growl, but the feedback’s been good, so I’ll take it.”

FROM CENTER TO COMMENTATOR, MEET THE NEW VOICE OF THE CARDINALS

“I’M NOT GOING TO EMULATE RON WITH HIS ICONIC VOICE. I’M JUST FAIR, HONEST, AND CALL IT HOW I SEE IT.

HOPEFULLY PEOPLE

LIKE IT.”

AQ’s story begins in Moon, Pennsylvania, a small town 20 minutes outside Pittsburgh bleeding black and gold.

“My whole college years were Pittsburgh winning Super Bowls.”

His hero was Mike Webster, one of the greatest centers ever to play, who anchored the Steelers’ dynasty teams of the 1970s. Webster’s son was a childhood teammate of AQ’s, and one night after a high school game, AQ received something he’ll never forget: a handwritten letter from Webster himself.

“That was surreal.”

Football was the natural path for a kid who, by freshman year of high school, already stood 6’1”, 275 pounds. He played basketball, dabbled in baseball, but the gridiron was home.

At Penn State, he arrived as a defensive lineman, only to be moved to center- a position he barely knew. By his third year, he was an All-American, winning the Rimington Trophy as the nation’s best center.

“I didn’t even know who Dave Rimington was when I got to college,” AQ laughs. “Then I win the award named after him.”

For every NFL dream, there’s a dose of reality. At the Combine, AQ’s measurements came under fire.

“I never knew I had short arms until that day,” he says.

Scouts wrote him off. What should have been an early-round pick dropped him into the seventh round. The wait was brutal.

“I had many people at my house. I couldn’t sit still, so I had to leave. I went for a walk, and that’s when the call came. It was the Steelers, and by the time I was home, it was scrolling across the screen. Drafted by my hometown team.”

Playing in Pittsburgh turned out to be more distraction than blessing.

“Every bar I walked into, people knew me,” he admits.  His next stop, Philadelphia, became pivotal. There, under line coach Juan Castillo, AQ found his footing.

“He was the hardest-working coach. He just kept telling me, ‘You work hard, good things will happen.’ I still carry that with me.”

CONTINUED >

Stops in Baltimore and Indianapolis followed. In Indy, with Bruce Arians and Harold Goodwin- two coaches who’d once drafted him in Pittsburgh- AQ finally earned his first NFL start.

“We were down big at half against Green Bay, came back to win late. That start sent my career on a wild ride.”

When Arians got the Cardinals’ head coaching job in 2013, AQ dreamed of reuniting. Two years later, he made it happen. In Arizona, he found more than just a team- he found a family.

“Bruce preached trust, loyalty, respect. It sounds cliché, but it worked. We’d watch Monday Night Football together, grab burgers, have a couple drinks, laugh. That’s what I miss… moments with the boys.”

AQ started 48 straight games for the Cardinals, protecting Carson Palmer and paving the way for David Johnson. He also found something else: Arizona itself.

“Three months in, I knew this was home. I remember calling my dad: no clouds in three months, spring training going on. I fell in love before summer hit.”

By 2019, AQ was near retirement. Then his buddy Bruce called… again. Talk about loyalty. Tampa Bay needed him.

“The timing couldn’t have been crazier. We’d just moved into a house. We had a six-week-old with colic. My wife was like, ‘You’re not serious right now.’”

But he went. In a COVID-stricken season, AQ started games for the Buccaneers, including one where he kept Aaron Donald off the stat sheet. Weeks later, Tampa won the Super Bowl.

“That was 2020. Weirdest year ever. Empty stadiums, quarantine hotels. But we won. And I got my ring. I’ve only worn it four times. It’s obnoxious. Huge.”

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AQ & Shari’s Next Play: REFFER

AQ and Shari Shipley know the power of trust. After years of moving city to city, raising families, and leaning on teammates for advice, they teamed up with serial entrepreneur KG Hagedorn to create REFFER, a mobile app designed to replace anonymous reviews with authentic referrals from the people you actually know.

“We created REFFER to capture the team-level trust we relied on when moving cities; honest referrals from people you actually know,” says AQ.

The platform lets users discover, share, and book trusted businesses and service providers through curated lists, VIP offers, and real recommendations from friends, teammates, and neighbors. Already working with more than 50 pro sports franchises, REFFER is redefining how communities connect with brands at scale. But at its heart, it’s built for your squad, because the best advice doesn’t come from strangers, it comes from people you trust. ref-fer.com/our-app

Off the field, AQ’s life is just as colorful. He’s a regular on The Pat McAfee Show, a friendship that began with a latenight curfew break at the College Football Awards.

“We met at Disney (for the awards). He looked at me like, ‘We’re not doing curfew, right?’ Next thing you know, we’re out all night at Downtown Disney,” AQ laughs.

“That’s Pat. He’s always on. He’s changed the game for sports broadcasting- bringing the real, raw, and relatable.”

That friendship has turned into a weekly seat at one of the most-watched sports shows in America, where AQ’s voice joins the mix with guests ranging from Jason and Travis Kelce to Andrew Santino, Miles Teller, Glenn Powell, and even Tom Cruise.

“Athletes are trained to give cookie-cutter answers. Pat makes it impossible not to be authentic. I love that I get to be part of that.”

There’s also his unlikely love of cooking, sparked by Food Network marathons. It led him to celebrity chef Beau MacMillan, now a close friend and partner in Taste of the NFL, where they’ve cooked together for over a decade.

“Bo’s dragon sauce is the best thing I’ve ever had.”

Today, he and his wife Shari raise three kids in Arcadia. Shari is a founding member of WINI (Women In Need Initiative), an organization built on the belief that giving back should be inclusive and approachable.

“Many moms want to be a part of a volunteer community, but often feel intimidated or don’t know where to begin. WINI provides that starting place,” Shari explains.

Now, with over 200 volunteers across Arizona, WINI proudly serves as a volunteer arm to organizations throughout the Valley, amplifying support for women and children who need it most.

“It’s a community here. That’s what I love about Arizona,” reflects AQ.

At 38 years young, AQ has played for his childhood team, won a Super Bowl, sat in locker rooms with legends, and forged a second act behind the mic. But what he treasures most isn’t the trophy case.

“I miss the comradery. That’s what football gave me. And now I get to stay around the game in Arizona, my home. Coming full circle means everything.”

IG @aqshipley

3 TOP Misunderstandings About Regenerative Medicine

By Dr. Adam Loiacono, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS

“It creates new tissue.”

Not quite. Its true power lies in communication sending signals that guide your body to repair and restore itself naturally.

“All treatments are the same.”

They’re not. Source, purity, and potency matter. The most advanced therapies use youthful, ethically sourced cells with stronger anti-inflammatory and restorative potential. This is just one reason Auragens in Panama was named Top Regenerative Center Worldwide (2025) by Life Sciences Review.

“It replaces rehab.”

Never. Biology sets the foundation, but movement, strength, and recovery complete the process. That’s the core of my LEGACY Program, integrating regenerative therapy with precision testing, rehab, and performance training.

Regeneration isn’t magic. It’s momentum.

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Experience the world’s most advanced regenerative and performance program built for those who refuse to age quietly.

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Over twelve transformative weeks, every detail is personalized combining precision data, cellular regeneration, and elite training to help you move, think, and live better for decades to come.

Program Highlights:

• (12) Sessions Before Cellular Treatment To Prepare The Body

• (12) sessions after treatment to support recovery

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• AI wellness companion for continuous guidance

• Longevity tools: recovery tracking, nutrition, supplements, & more

BONUS: Paradise Valley City Lifestyle supporters receive an exclusive LEGACY Gift Box.

THIS ISN’T MEDICAL TOURISM; IT’S MEDICAL EVOLUTION.

by Cat Cantrill

DEAR MATCHMAKER,

Discreet Advice for Love, Dating, and Partnership in Paradise Valley

From gift-giving to dinner invites, it’s the season when generosity and discernment go hand in hand.

Dear Matchmaker,

Q: Every cuffing season I feel pressure to “show up big” by sending wine, hosting dinners, even buying gifts too soon. It feels generous, but maybe it’s too much. How do I keep dating light and intentional?

A: Cuffing season can nudge people to move faster than feels natural. Generosity is wonderful when it’s aligned; over-giving too soon can feel transactional. Grand gestures should grow out of consistency, not just chemistry. If you’re buying gifts and planning holidays before you know someone’s character, you’re auditioning instead of evaluating. Keep your investment proportionate to the stage. Your time and energy are the most valuable gifts you have to give; spend them with intention.

Q: The holidays make me want to speed things up– dates, parties, cozy nights in. You always say chemistry can cloud things. How do I slow down and stay grounded?

A: Holiday magic is real, but chemistry isn’t clarity. If you speed up because the season sparkles, you risk mistaking oxytocin for connection. Enjoy the champagne, the galas, the candlelight... but pace your heart. After each date, ask: Am I curious, or just carried by the moment? Curiosity keeps you grounded. Chemistry alone won’t keep you warm in January.

Because the right match should feed your life the way a holiday table does: warm, intentional, and worth savoring.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Calais Comes Home

A HOMECOMING WITH HEART

Calais Campbell’s NFL career spans 18 seasons, but his story begins long before the draft boards and highlight reels. It begins with family.

Calais was just a senior in high school when he lost his father, Charles Richard Campbell. The loss was devastating, but it also lit a fire that still fuels him today.

“My dad passed away when I was a senior in high school. He died from liver failure, which I later realized was connected to a hereditary blood disorder I also have. It was a sad situation, but I had an incredible dad for 17 years of my life. He’s probably my favorite human to ever walk this earth. Of course, I wish he was still around; my dad was the first person that really believed in me and my dream. He made sacrifices for me to accomplish my goals.”

Calais & his dad

“When I was 12, I spent six months in a homeless shelter. I used to block it out in embarrassment, but I realized it made me who I am. Now I aim to show kids you can change your circumstances. I’m proof of it.”

Those sacrifices carried him to the University of Miami, then to Arizona, where the Cardinals drafted him in 2008. But woven into his path to the NFL is another experience he carries with him to this day- a childhood brush with homelessness.

“For six months when I was 12, we were in a homeless shelter. I used to block it from my memory because I was embarrassed… even some of my closest friends didn’t know. But as I got older, I realized it was part of my history and necessary for me to become the man I am. Now I use that experience to motivate kids who are going through homelessness; to show them you can improve your circumstances. I’m an example of it.”

Those twin influences- his father’s lessons and his family’s resilience- shaped his passion for giving back. Early in his career, Calais joined his siblings to establish the Charles Richard Campbell (CRC) Foundation in his father’s honor.

“After I got that first year under my belt, I was talking with one of my brothers and one of my sisters about wanting to do something to honor my father. That’s how the CRC Foundation started. We wanted to put the core values my dad stood for into the community, the lessons that helped us become safe, healthy, happy adults.”

At first, his service looked like hospital visits and community events arranged by the Cardinals. But those early experiences showed him the unique responsibility that comes with his platform.

“I realized the power of being an NFL player, and the impact you can make on the community by just showing up and being present. You give an hour out of your day, and it has such a big impact. That was powerful for me, and it made me want to put more hours into the community.”

Now, as a veteran, his philanthropy has evolved.

“As I’ve gotten older, I don’t have the time I used to, but I have more capital now. Now, it’s about arming charities with the resources they need to do more.”

This season, he launched Calais Comes Home: A Homecoming with Heart, a campaign that ties directly to his own story. Every play he makes translates into donations for Arizona charities, starting with the House of Refuge, which supports families experiencing homelessness.

“Every time I make a play, I’m donating.”

The initiative expands beyond a single nonprofit.

“I didn’t want to just do one charity, so we picked nine others we’re supporting for home and away games. Based on my stats, I’m donating to those charities as well. The biggest thing is bringing a spotlight to them, showing fans what they do, and creating a place where people can donate alongside me.”

At 38, Calais knows his time on the field is finite.

“It’s kind of a reason to play, right? To help more people, to use the platform. This is probably my last year. I’m trying to make as big of an impact as I can while I still have this platform.”

That impact is measured not just in sacks and tackles, but in the legacy he’s leaving for his three young sons.

“I want them to understand the importance of charity. Even though we were a family benefiting from resources and turkey giveaways growing up, my dad always made sure we volunteered, too. He instilled that charitable mindset in us at a young age, and it’s carried forward my whole life. That’s what I want my boys to see.”

After nearly two decades in the NFL, Calais Campbell’s resume is full. But his heart remains rooted in the lessons of his father, the trials of his youth, and the joy of giving back.

“The brotherhood, the camaraderie, the impact you can have on younger guys… that’s what makes football special. You can’t do it by yourself… you need everybody to perform at a high level. That’s what meant everything to me as a kid, and it still does today.”

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At Home with Nick Lowery

Naked and Alone with 80,000 People

ARTICLE BY NADINE BUBECK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTTSDALE EVENT

PHOTOGRAPHY, BARRET ELENGOLD

Nick Lowery’s Scottsdale house feels like an NFL museum. Chiefs red everywhere, alongside mementos from his years with the Jets and Patriots. The walls showcase career milestones, gleaming game balls, and the honors he’s most proud of including the NFL Players Association’s Byron “Whizzer” White Award, the league’s highest humanitarian honor, and the Golden Toe Award for being the best Kicker or Punter in the NFL. But there’s also the US Jaycees Ten Outstanding Young Americans award won by JFK and Elvis. It’s a living archive of a man who carved his place in football history, yet Nick himself is quick to steer the conversation away from trophies and toward legacy, purpose, and giving back.

He walks in with a presence that announces history: championship ring on his finger, a pendant that sparkles, and a lifetime of stories that follow him into the room.

“Patrick Mahomes’ mom has one (of my pendant necklaces),” he says with a grin, recalling a recent sideline exchange. “Then Patrick’s dad looked at mine and said, ‘I need one too… but not with the eight, your number. I want 15.’”

He sells the piece for $350 on his Foundation website, and proceeds go directly to his Champions for the Homeless program, providing clothing, necessities, flowers, food, and beyond to what he calls “our homeless brothers and sisters at St. Vincent de Paul.”

And the bling continues.

About the ring on his finger, he is precise.

Nick's House

Nick's Parents

Nick's House

Nick's House

Nick's House

Nick's House

“The closest I got was with a guy named Joe Montana in the AFC Championship game when another guy named Bruce Smith gave Joe his worst concussion ever,” he recalls. “Later, this ring was offered to me as the all-time scorer for the Chiefs after we finally ended a 50-year wait. I sat and watched us win that Super Bowl, and this became a symbol; not just of the team’s victory, but of the generations of players who fought for, suffered for, sacrificed for, and in the end, triumphed into this golden era where the Kansas City Chiefs have taken over as America’s team.”

The throughline of his life is persistence.

“In the two years where I tried out with multiple NFL teams 11 times; I went from being scared to death in my first game with the New England Patriots on national TV against the Oakland Raiders, to beating out the greatest kicker in history, Jan Stenerud.”

Nick walked away from “a wonderful job as one of the only 2 non-attorneys on the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, working for Senator Bob Packwood of Oregon on aviation safety and deregulation.”

Why?

“Because I owed it to myself to try one more time, and on the 12th attempt, it finally worked. The Chiefs gave me my first bonus: $2,500. After two years of rejection, I had paid my dues and was finally ready... strong enough, physically and mentally, to go head-to-head every day for four weeks with my idol, Jan Stenerud, who would go on to become the first placekicker inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. From there, I went on to play 18 years, setting records for accuracy, career field goals, and 50-yarders.”

The lesson lands plainly: “In two years, with dedication, focus, and a lot of persistence, unbelievable things can be achieved. Persistence, focus and courage are king.”

However, Arizona is home.

“I’ve been here now… the beginning of my 30th year.”

Nick remembers the moment it clicked: “I came to Arizona for the Super Bowl in ‘96. It was 75 degrees in early February, orange blossoms in the air, and that was it.”

His Arizona years brought proximity to greatness.

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“A guy named Muhammad Ali moved in next door when I lived in Cheney Estates,” he says, and the stories come tumbling out. Like the time he drove Ali to the 2009 NBA All-Star Game and watched the entire locker room; Allen Iverson, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Tim Duncan, Yao Ming, Kobe Bryant, Amare Stoudemire... all grinning like kids meeting their hero. Or the moment during the game when he found himself just a few rows behind Ali, sitting alongside Beyoncé and Jay-Z.

For Nick, those moments underscored a theme: “The great celebrities I’ve been lucky to meet… they are so at peace and at ease with who they are. They’re just people first.”

And now, Nick is putting his memoir to paper, in his upcoming book: Naked and Alone with 80,000 People.

“As a kicker in the NFL, I often feel vulnerable and exposed. It’s the single most pressured position in sports, and in those moments, managing yourself becomes absolutely essential. Everyone remembers even if you only miss one all season. “

He can still clock the mechanics in his sleep.

“It’s snapped back in .80 seconds… put down and spun in 0.2 tenths of a second… you have literally under 0.2 tenths of a second, probably 0.1 tenth of a second when the ball’s not spinning to see it and kick it… and you have 11 people 21 feet away, earning almost $5 million each… to block your kick.”

The metaphor widens: “Kicking is a great analogy for all these moments of truth in our lives.” Waiting on the sidelines, never knowing when our time comes…

And for losses, the discipline is the point: “Even at 80%, an alltime record at the time, you sometimes still miss.  The Lesson is to learn and then move on… flush it down to your mental toilet.”

The compass of his life was set early by his parents.

“My dad was Chief of Station for the CIA in London; an expert on Russia and Eastern Europe.”

His mother “grew up in Cairo, Egypt… moved back to England at 13; her father passed away when she was 14. She was in the first full class of women at Oxford. As she spoke the best German in England, she was sent at the end of the war to question Hitler’s record keepers in Berlin.”

A decade after her death, he learned: “My mother had kept a dark secret: before the end of the war she was sent to document the death camps, like in Dachau near Munich, Germany, where I was born. I will be speaking against Antisemitism in Munich this month.”

Nick tears up when he speaks of his parents.

“They were married 57 years. I was extremely lucky to have parents that loved each other so deeply.”

Childhood also meant remarkable neighbors.

“On the day we moved into 6803 Hampshire Road, a guy named Justice Byron White moved in next door. He was the newest Supreme Court Justice and probably the greatest football player in the land. He led the NFL in rushing twice for Pittsburgh and later for Detroit, and finished number one at Yale Law School.”

The effect on young Nick was clear: “He inspired me to aim higher – even the NFL.”

Today, his life off the field reflects the same lessons that shaped him on it.

Nick's House Champions for the Homeless

First, there’s Project Max, a mission to fight racism, antisemitism, hate and intolerance through sports. Through Project Max, Nick “toured Auschwitz and the Warsaw Ghetto,” and visited “the kibbutz that was overrun during the NOVA music festival attack.”

Here at home, Champions for the Homeless is his heartbeat.

“We serve, on average, 1,000 homeless brothers and sisters at St. Vincent de Paul in downtown Phoenix providing clothes, gift certificates, haircuts, even flowers. But most of all, we offer the deepest kind of human love. As St. Vincent de Paul has humbly taught me, there is no difference between the giver and the receiver.”

But the heart of it is not the material. “Look that person right in the eye and say… you are loved and you’re not forgotten.”

He calls St. Vincent de Paul “the bestrun nonprofit in the Southwest, if not anywhere,” and what moves him most isn’t the numbers, but the people.

On Thanksgiving morning, Nick and a crew of his NFL friends- teammates and rivals alike- along with 200 remarkably big-hearted volunteers unite to pay it forward. They show up in their jerseys to serve meals, play music, hand out clothing, and remind each person they are seen. For Nick, that’s the real meaning of the holiday. “That’s Thanksgiving, that’s the music of life,” he says.

And yet, football images stay vivid.

“To look up after kicking a game-winning field goal, and see teammates like Derrick Thomas, Marcus Allen and Joe Montana make the field goal ‘its good!’  gesture, almost 80,000 people standing up in red and then seeing all my teammates running at me to share in the moment as a TEAM… those are the finest memories I’ll never forget.”

The line that centers him is one he wrote years ago: “It’s not the brightness of the spotlight on you, but it’s the intensity of the light within you.”

Purpose, he says, is a practice.

“Just keep asking yourself, what is my purpose in this world? Who am I playing for?  What are my gifts? Align your golden soulful compass and stick with it. Consistency in personal growth and purpose is literally the painting of your own life’s masterpiece.”

nicklowery.com

David J. Dobrusin, CPA, CFP®

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY STATE FORTY EIGHT

MICHAEL SPANGENBERG: STITCHING COMMUNITY INTO EVERY THREAD

STATE FORTY EIGHT, UNSCRIPTED

Arizona has plenty of logos. Mike Spangenberg has a life. If you only know him as State Forty Eight’s co-founder- the silhouette that became Arizona prideyou’ve missed the story underneath.

“Everyone calls me ‘Spanky.’ The nickname came from my dad” ...And it fits.

Even his ink tells you who he is: Pat Tillman on his arm (“what he stood for: Arizona legend, American legend”), and an entire leg dedicated to family: “I call my mom ‘Ma’—M-A—with angel wings on my shin.”

Born and raised a Zoni, he grew up frustrated that Arizona didn’t have a cool, wearable identity.

“It was the corny three-for-$10 Walgreens shirts,” he says. “We’re better than that.”

Fashion wasn’t a phase; even as a kid, he loved shopping. But before the tees, Mike washed dishes at a Residence Inn, worked his way up to GM, and fell in love with people.

“I think you can control your own destiny. That’s what we translate into State Forty Eight. It’s not about transactions- it’s about creating experiences.”

The brand’s origin story is now folklore: a bedroom brainstorm with childhood friends Stephen & Nicholas; a $1,500 collective investment; a heat press in the house; one unforgettable “upside-down” print; Instagram in its early heyday, when 1,000 followers actually saw your posts. But the inflection point was earned, not gifted.

Phoenix Fashion Week sharpened their business chops, and then Bruce Arians opened a door. A silhouette tee of the coach became an instant hit and, more importantly, a blueprint for impact: fashion with purpose, collaboration with give-back.

“From the beginning, I wanted it to be more than selling shirts and hats,” says Mike.

Partnerships with the Cardinals, D-backs, Suns, universities, and nonprofits followed. Today, they’ve worked with more than 2,000 Arizona organizations; there’s even a State Forty Eight license plate on the road. One of Mike’s favorite

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“AS ENTREPRENEURS, WE’RE NEVER SATISFIED.”

moments: a 13-year-old Make-A-Wish kid chose State Forty Eight to create a shirt, donating all profits to Phoenix Children’s.

“That’s what gets me fired up.”

The collaboration model is intentionally frictionless: minimum 50 shirts, no up-front costs, with design time and hard costs baked in. Most partners buy at wholesale, then fundraise or outfit their teams.

“It lets people tell a story on a T-shirt.”

But the business today is bigger- and more behind-the-scenes- than most realize.

State Forty Eight prints for countless Arizona companies that don’t carry the State Forty Eight logo at all… tees, hats (via embroidery), promo goods- with a minimum order (24) and a production engine capable of 200,000 shirts a month.

“Printing most people’s shirts in Arizona lets us do more intentional work.”

The State Forty Eight Foundation is where that intention is formalized.

Launched in 2020, the 501(c)(3) has awarded nearly $200,000 in grants to early-stage entrepreneurs and packs rooms- 300 people a week- at its fourweek speaker series.

“We know how hard it is to start and sustain, so we bring different founders to give practical tips. Everyone starts somewhere.”

To be eligible for grants, attendees join at least three of the four sessions, and the Foundation also hosts free Beyond Business networking nights to keep the momentum alive.

“These rooms are powerful. You might meet your next partner.”

“YOU

Success, of course, isn’t a straight line. Ask Mike for something you don’t know and he doesn’t blink: “The last two years have been the hardest of my life in business.”

Retail- so aligned with his love of experiences- proved costly. He closed

“Devin Booker,” he says, hinting at custom shoes they’re working on.

There’s also a personal chapter still unwritten. Mike’s single. The non-negotiable?

“Someone who truly understands entrepreneurship. It should feel easy if

CAN CONTROL YOUR OWN DESTINY. IT’S

NOT ABOUT

TRANSACTIONS;

RATHER, CREATING EXPERIENCES.”

a store, made painful cuts, and said goodbye to longtime teammates.

“It kills you,” he admits. “But if you don’t do that as a leader, you hurt the business more. Do your best, forget the rest.”

How do you keep going?

“Your circle,” he says. A Vistage group that “calls you out in love,” friends who double as mentors… names like Scott Harkey, Kurt O’Donnell at Freestar, the Baseballism crew that serves as a fractional CFO, Bad Birdie’s Jason for industry brain trust, and athletes who’ve become close.

“As you get older, your circle shrinks, and that’s okay.”

Off duty, Mike lives Arizona... from Cardinals kickoffs to Suns tip-offs. If you shove him into a jersey decision today, he lights up: “I’m a big Calais Campbell fan… glad to see him back (and featured in this issue as well!).” The dream wearer?

it’s your best friend. Have fun, lay low, wants to travel, and be self-motivated.”

(Consider this your nudge, Arizona.)

For all the numbers… more than $25 million in lifetime sales, thousands of collaborations, a foundation cresting $200,000 in grants… Mike resists the urge to reduce it to metrics. He still stops when he sees a State Forty Eight tee at the grocery store.

“I will never take that stuff for granted.”

Ask him what he’d tell young Spanky and he goes quiet for a beat.

“I’d say I’m proud of you.” Then he smiles, a little sheepish. “As entrepreneurs, we’re never satisfied. I’ve let that get the best of me. I need to celebrate the wins more.”

He’s a guy who turned a bedroom idea into a statewide love language… and still pauses long enough to say thanks.

statefortyeight.com

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GROWING HOPE FROM HEARTBREAK

Tristan’s Trees

“Our tree became a way to keep Tristan’s spirit alive.

A sacred place of connection.”

On quiet afternoons, Scottsdale-based Sheridan James often sits beneath a tree in her backyard while her two daughters play nearby. To most, it’s ordinary.

To Sheridan, it’s everything. It is Tristan’s tree, planted in honor of the baby boy she carried for 35 weeks but never brought home.

“It’s a place where I go to feel connected to him; nature reminds me his energy is still here. Even though he isn’t physically with us, he lives on in the beauty that surrounds us.”

The tree became a symbol of peace and survival born of unimaginable heartbreak. Sheridan recalls waking one night with a gut-punch, knowing something was wrong.

“It was heartbreaking and gut wrenching...”

She carried that memory into the hospital, and ultimately walked out with empty arms.

In the weeks that followed, Sheridan instinctively turned to the outdoors. A family friend gifted them a tree, and she returned to it again and again.

“Our tree became a way to keep Tristan’s spirit alive. A sacred place of connection.”

One of the hardest parts of stillbirth, she says, is the fear your baby will be forgotten.

“But Tristan is real. He is forever our son. Tristan’s Trees is my way of keeping his spirit alive while also honoring all children gone too soon.”

From that promise came her foundation. What began as a single backyard tree has grown into a mission: to give other grieving families the same gift: a living memorial when everything else feels fragile.

“Along my grief journey, I connected with people who made me feel less alone. That inspired me to

create this nonprofit granting families the gift our tree has given me and to build connection so no one walks this path alone.”

Tristan’s Trees provides grieving families with a living memorial; a tree planted in honor of a child lost to stillbirth or whose life ended too soon in childhood. Sourced through local nurseries and delivered to a home or meaningful place, each tree is funded entirely by donations to ensure every family has a place of remembrance.

“Every time we deliver a tree, my heart breaks a little because I know their pain.”

At home, Sheridan’s daughters know they have a brother. The family uses the hummingbird as Tristan’s sign...

“I want to show my daughters that even from something so awful, something beautiful can grow.”

For Sheridan, it’s not about moving on...

“Strength can come from weakness, and love can be shared even in the darkest times. Moving forward is the only option because life keeps going.”

Tristan’s Trees is her way of staying rooted in remembrance while growing in hope.

“I hope he’d say, ‘You’re doing good, Mom. You’re doing something beautiful out of something so painful.’ My greatest hope is that he would be proud to know this work, in his name, is helping fellow families feel less alone.”

Donations help Tristan’s Trees grow. Each contribution goes directly toward planting more trees so families have a place to feel their child’s presence rooted in something living and lasting.

tristanstrees.org , IG @tristans.trees

Hope Four Foundations of Hope

From unimaginable loss to hard-fought survival, these four Valley-based foundations were born of experience, resilience, and the promise of legacy. Each carries forward a mission rooted in love, service, and the determination to ensure no family walks their journey alone.

The stories behind their missions

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels Baller Dream Foundation

Founder, Lorraine Tallman

Amanda fought hard, and very rarely complained. Somehow, she always had a smile. Even in the beginning of her battle, when she shared hospital rooms with other young warriors, she instinctively cared for those around her. She was compassionate, strong, and endlessly giving.

Her mother Lorraine remembers the first signs: exhaustion, headaches, flu-like symptoms.

“Nine-year-olds don’t get migraines,” she insisted at the pediatrician’s office.

Hours later, tests confirmed Amanda had leukemia. The next three years were grueling- endless hospital nights, side effects, and uncertainty- but when remission came, they celebrated with a “No More Chemo Party.”

“Seeing the glow and smile on Amanda’s face was priceless,” her mom recalls.

The cancer returned, and Amanda faced it again with courage. At just 12, she imagined a shirt that gave children dignity during treatment- Comfycozys for Chemo. Before she passed, she made her mother promise to help other children fighting cancer. That promise became Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels.

Today, the foundation eases financial burdens, provides counseling, celebrates milestones, and distributes adaptive apparel. It also helped inspire the FDA-approved Amanda™ Port Stabilizer, reducing trauma for countless patients.

“If Amanda could see it, she’d say, ‘Big hugs, Mama. Never give up.’”

amandahope.org

Founder, Francis Joseph DeBlasi

At 29, Francis Joseph DeBlasi heard the words no one wants to hear: cancer.

“I was so grateful for the support I had from family and friends, and I immediately knew that I had to pay it forward after my battle,” he recalls.

His mother, Rita, became his rock... waiting for him every day in treatment with graham crackers and ginger ale. His oncology team gave him hope with a clear game plan. But looking around the treatment room, he noticed something else: young adults and children fighting the same fight without the resources or support he had.

“To an extent, I felt guilty because I had so much. That thought became the catalyst to form a foundation.”

In 2019, the Baller Dream Foundation officially launched, supporting pediatric and young adult cancer warriors ages 0–29 through treatment, remission, and beyond.

“Most organizations stop at 18. I was 29 at diagnosis. I wanted to include this overlooked population.”

From dream gifts and once-in-a-lifetime experiences- like flying a 10-year-old foodie to cook with Guy Fieri- to in-hospital crafts, community events, and critical financial assistance, Baller Dream has built what DeBlasi calls a “Ballerhood.”

“It’s one of the most personal and authentic missions you’ll ever find,” he says. “Our Ballers give us strength. God bless them all.”

ballerdream.org

Wylder Nation Foundation PCH Sage

Co-Founder, Steven Laffoon Ashley Hawkins, Founding President

“Wylder James was our firstborn, the one who made us parents,” his family shares. “He had a contagious laugh, often making him tip over with joy. He loved books, the zoo, dinners out, and exploring new places. He was calm, easygoing, and truly the light of our lives.”

Though Wylder could not speak, his strength was undeniable.

“He was a warrior... braver and stronger than anyone we’ve ever known,” says Steven Laffoon, Wylder’s dad. His parents remember hospital stays, procedures, and long searches for answers, but what endures are the moments of joy.

“He taught us to live in the moment and never take life for granted.”

When Wylder passed, his family transformed their grief into purpose by creating the Wylder Nation Foundation.

“We promised him we would continue the fight for others. Families facing ASMD and other ultra-rare diseases deserve more than hopelessness.”

Today, the foundation drives research, secures experimental drug access, connects families worldwide, and pushes toward life-saving clinical trials.

“We’ve connected with families all over the world who reach out for help, education, and guidance. We even helped toddlers with ASMD gain access to an experimental drug through the FDA’s Single Patient Investigator Initiated IND pathway. One of those children is now 7 years old- when most with his form of ASMD typically pass away by age 3.”

Wylder’s legacy lives on in every child the Foundation fights for.

wyldernation.org

Phoenix Children’s has introduced PCH Sage, a new women’s giving group committed to advancing mental health care through advocacy, funding, and community support.

“The name Sage was intentional,” says Ashley Hawkins, founding president. “A sage is a wise woman: caring, healing, and strong.”

According to Ashley, kids arriving at Phoenix Children’s in mental health crisis has skyrocketedfrom 64 in 2008 to more than 1,400 in 2018. Today, more than seven children a day arrive in crisis, often waiting over 34 hours for care.

“Our children are struggling right now. Sage is about women uniting with passion and purpose to bridge that gap.”

On December 7th, PCH Sage will host its inaugural Secret Garden Soiree, a refined luncheon with floral sophistication, highlighted by a live fashion show. Presented in partnership with Amy Atelier and Cinq à Sept, the event will serve as Sage’s signature kickoff. Event Chairs Monique Hampton and Somer Zimmerman are leading the charge with an ambitious fundraising goal, rallying community support and showcasing the powerful change women can achieve when united with purpose.

phoenixchildrensfoundation.org/ giving-groups/pch-sage

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Luxury, Legacy, and Lasting Style

GOWN INSPO FOR GIVE-BACK GALA SEASON

After more than 30 years with Neiman Marcus, Tim Braun has become a familiar name in luxury retail. Having led the Scottsdale store for much of his tenure, he remains dedicated to supporting community causes like the Heart Ball. As Neiman Marcus begins a new chapter under the Saks Global acquisition, Tim reflects on the ever-evolving landscape of luxury retail.

YOU’VE SPENT DECADES IN LUXURY RETAIL. WHAT FIRST DREW YOU TO THIS INDUSTRY?

At a young age, I admired my family’s love for fashion and quality tailoring. My grandfather was a custom tailor for prominent people in our hometown and my mother was a fashionista that taught me how to express my personality through fashion. I spent years in the luxury jewelry business catering to affluent clients on the east coast and throughout the entire US. After joining Neiman Marcus 34 years ago, that love for jewelry and fashion continued and was elevated with responsibilities to grow valued clients around the country. I’ve stayed inspired by meeting world-renowned designers and helping emerging talents find their place at Neiman Marcus and in the fashion community.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY SAKS

WHEN YOU FIRST STEPPED INTO YOUR ROLE IN SCOTTSDALE, WHAT VISION DID YOU HAVE FOR THE STORE AND COMMUNITY?

I came here on a mission to influence the potential of a growing market... supporting it with philanthropy, high fashion, and loyal relationships within the community. I saw that potential after the success of Neiman Marcus’s concept store, The Galleries at Biltmore Fashion Park. I wanted the challenge of elevating our main store in fashion while strengthening philanthropic ties. The Valley had the opportunity to attract new affluent, luxury-minded residents through its arts, culture, culinary delights, architecture, and love for fashion.

YOU’VE CALLED SCOTTSDALE HOME FOR YEARS—HOW HAS THAT SHAPED YOUR CONNECTION TO THE VALLEY?

I have lived in 3 areas of Scottsdale over 20 years and I now call this home. The connection I have built in the Valley has been an important part of my self development and has shaped my personal lifestyle. It has helped me grow through a love of the culture, the kindness of the citizens, and being surrounded by so many fellow residents that support this city.

WITH THE SAKS GLOBAL ACQUISITION OF NEIMAN MARCUS, WHAT DOES THIS MERGER MEAN FOR SHOPPERS?

With the merger of two iconic brands in our market, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, the merger of Saks Global makes us the largest multi luxury retailer in the world... but what excites me most is our pursuit of the extraordinary. We are continuing to build two brands that have a long legacy of luxury. Both brands will remain loyal to their DNA, but will operate as one united culture.

HOW DO YOU SEE THIS MERGER IMPACTING THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE HERE?

We recognize the importance of each store in this market and the customer experience will be held to the highest standard to represent the legacy brands. We will continue to put an emphasis on our service, styling, curated selection of fashions as well as maintaining a differentiated view for each brand.

Gala Gowns of the Season

JENNY PACKHAM “ERNEST” CRYSTAL SEQUIN CAP SLEEVE GOWN- $4,720

A statuesque column gown with cap sleeves and crystal sequins; sleek, sparkling, and modern.

LAPOINTE ASYMMETRIC SATIN GOWN- $1,850

Fluid teal satin draped with minimalist drama; sophisticated and striking without embellishment.

MONIQUE LHUILLIER METALLIC EMBROIDERED OFF-THE-SHOULDER BALL GOWN- $8,995

A regal silhouette with gold embroidery on soft nude; timeless elegance with modern glamour.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED ABOUT BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS IN RETAIL?

To understand the client and recognize their lifestyle through a genuine approach; building trust that allows us to style them and be their fashion authority.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT THAT NEIMAN MARCUS AND SAKS GIVE BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY?

Growing up, my family instilled in me the belief of giving over receiving. That value has stayed with me throughout my career; not just in seeing the satisfaction of those we serve, but in feeling it within my own heart. I experienced this firsthand when I briefly worked in corporate and met Stanley Marcus, the founder of Neiman Marcus. His vision that the brand would always support the community and its clients has guided me ever since.

WHAT DOES THE HEART BALL MEAN TO NEIMAN MARCUS?

Since our store opening in 1991, our store has been intimately involved with all that support the Heart Ball. Their passion and dedication to this cause is contagious and our support has flourished all these years. We are very proud that both brands have supported the committee with the Kick Off Luncheon and the Heart Ball Addressing Luncheon.

AKRIS SILVER SEQUIN GOWN- $4,990

A clean slip silhouette with delicate straps- understated chic lit up by full sequin shimmer.

NAEEM KHAN FLORAL EMBROIDERED LONG SLEEVE ILLUSION GOWN- $5,995

Berry tones over sheer black tulle; floral embroidery with jewel-toned drama, perfect for the Heart Ball.

CAROLINA HERRERA FLORAL EMBROIDERED STRAPLESS DROP-WAIST DRESS- $12,995

Strapless, structured, and voluminous; bold femininity balanced with classic sophistication.

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A November Fashion Reflection

ARTICLE BY AMY YOUNT, AMY ATELIER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTTSDALE EVENT

PHOTOGRAPHY-

BARRET ELENGOLD

Each September once NY Fashion Week is behind me, our local fashionistas come out of their Summer hibernation and want to know what to wear, now and later. This question takes a deeper meaning this year since the fundraisers are in full swing and the world is not quite as jolly as the stock market. If our booming sweater business is any indication, there is a strong desire for cozy, comfy, safe and community.

It never ceases to amaze me the involvement my clients and friends have in organizations that are close to their hearts. This is especially true this year as I’ve learned about new and impactful causes through dressing them for their annual gala, hosting a fundraising shopping night, or by providing auction items in support of their cause. We are over the moon to present Cinq a Sept this December in the first annual fashion show for the new PCH Sage, shining a light on the importance of children’s mental health. There’s a trending feeling in the air that personal style is presenting itself not just through fashion but through outreach.

A recent conversation comes to mind where I was told about a teenage girl reworking pre-owned denim by adding inspirational quotes and messages to them. I have been asked to host and share with a youth group to help inspire them to become business owners and leaders so her business and aspirations were shared with me. Her passion for sharing her message and building her brand was infectious, as she tapped into the support of her friends and church community to bring the final product to life. It brought such a sense of joy to me that there is positivity around clothing and community from young people and knowing they have hope to make a difference through dressing others.

So... to all of the fashionistas out there working hard and making a difference, invest in elevated Autumnal fabric like brushed cozy cashmere. Designer runways most notably highlighted oversized cardigans, coordinated skirt and pullover sets and luxurious car coats. Add a suede cowboy boot, modern chunky metal jewelry and your denim of choice as it’s an all inclusive season for this category. ‘Tis the season to bundle up with our family and friends.

Amy Yount is the owner of AMY Atelier, a contemporary boutique in Old Town Scottsdale known for its seasonally curated collections. shopamyatelier.com

bourbonandbones.com

FOR VETERANS DAY, A SCOTTSDALE

SOLDIER’S STORY OF SERVICE, SACRIFICE, AND THE HEALING POWER OF HORSES.

Grant stands in the Scottsdale barn at Hunkapi, alongside a rescue horse. Grant says he recognizes himself in the horses; their pain, their guardedness, and their fight to survive.

“The rescue horses come from different lives, some good some bad, but they had purposes, missions, and callings in their lives. Because of a trauma, their lives changed, and were going to be discarded like an afterthought. Knowing the pain, punishment, and abuse these horses have endured- and seeing them come back to heal the wounds of innocent children and adults- gives me hope for myself.””

This, coming from a man who spent more than a decade serving his country, with multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

“I joined after 9/11. I was delivering car parts after dropping out of college and going nowhere in life. I got a call from an Army recruiter and signed up for four years, thinking it would be an adventure, help pay for college, and give me a jumpstart in life.”

That four years turned into eleven.

FROM BATTLEFIELD TO BARN

“After my first deployment, I knew the military was a path for me. I found something that I didn’t have to struggle to fit into. I had a role and felt success. And then in the spring of 2005, I realized I wanted to be a First Sergeant of a Cavalry Troop of Soldiers.”

He speaks openly about the toll those years took.

“Physically intense- the nature of our job. Mentally demanding every day. The emotional demands go unspoken. You don’t train to deal with how much it hurts to be separated from loved ones and their lives. You don’t train on how to emotionally handle loss of life right before your eyes.”

Near the end of his last deployment, a single exchange with his brothers has stayed with him ever since.

“We concluded we were the angriest platoon in Afghanistan at that moment in time. The four of us laughed through our dark humor. Now I realize I was surrounded by brothers who weren’t angry at all, but living every second in fight mode- taking on every threat to protect each other and get us home safe.”

When Grant returned home in 2013, he thought he was ready.

“That battle was all the unanswered trauma I thought I had handled- and some I didn’t even know I carried. Then some of the brothers I’d trauma-bonded with started checking out early because they couldn’t handle what was going on in their lives.”

Traditional therapy through the VA gave him tools, but not the deeper healing he needed.

“What was missing for me was the reconnection to the body and the nervous system and how to work with it instead of overriding it… I learned a lot about what my issues were and some tools to help, but they were a band-aid on a wound that needed tending.”

After the devastating loss of his best friend, his wife suggested horse therapy. And at first, he wasn’t sure what to expect.

“I felt like that would be a safe place for me. That I knew I would love the animals there.”

At Hunkapi, he remembers his first day vividly.

“Walking through the barn took me back to childhood… the smells, the calm of the horses settling my nervous system. But on that first day of cohorts, it was the opposite. I was afraid to even be there, consumed by my grief.”

He pushed himself to walk the grounds.

“I was a complete wreck on the inside because I wanted it all to stop, and I wanted peace of mind, heart and soul.”

Jillian Rivera Photography

ABOUT HUNKAPI’S EQUINE THERAPY

Hunkapi Programs offers equine-assisted therapy tailored for first responders and veterans. Held on the farm’s peaceful grounds, these sessions use the healing bond between horses and humans to support trauma recovery, emotional regulation, and stress relief. Open to active and retired service members, the program provides a restorative, hands-on path to resilience and growth. hunkapi.org

Jillian Rivera Photography

FIREPLACE SEASON IS

The program begins simply, explains Terra Schaad, who runs Hunkapi.

“Opening up around the fire pit in a circle with brief check-in, somatic exercise to get connected to our surroundings and internal experience, exercise with the horses that further elaborates on the somatic experience, closing around the fire. These are two hours long in duration.”

She says skepticism is common.

“We often will start with a farm tour… People are often skeptical of strangers and new experiences but once they tour, feel the energy of the farm, meet the animals, and feel the openness of the facilitators… that begins to dissipate.”

For Grant, the change was profound. The horses offered something traditional therapy never did.

“The turning point was when the anxiety and panic attacks stopped controlling my life. The horses have a real calming effect on my nervous system. They don’t judge. They just make sure you’re safe to be around… and when you do the work to regulate yourself, even a little, they reward you with love and magic.”

Thanks to Hunkapi, Grant feels a sense of normalcy.

“‘Normal’ just means I’m safe. I can let my guard down and be me. I don’t have to constantly engage my nervous system in survival mode. Now, my wife is not in a constant state of worry… My son spends time on the farm… My veteran friends are thankful for me to have found this.”

In fact, Grant believes the program saved his life.

“I have found a way to heal that I wasn’t sure was possible. After going through this program, I’ve been able to find purpose again. To me, hope means more tomorrows- without fear, without hesitation about what they might bring.”

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Arizona to America250

Childhelp Cofounders Sara and Yvonne Unite a Legacy of Love with the Nation’s Semiquincentennial Celebration

FOR THE LOVE OF AMERICA

They are two women in their 90s, both Arizona residents, who have lived a story that reads like American history itself. Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson, best friends turned founders of Childhelp, have spent more than six decades at the helm of one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofits dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse.

And now, as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, Childhelp has been invited into a partnership that feels both patriotic and deeply personal. The nonprofit will join forces with America250, the bipartisan commission charged by Congress to lead the commemoration of the Declaration of Independence. Together, the two organizations will salute generations of military men and women who have defended freedom while carrying forward a mission centered on children, family, and hope.

Childhelp’s history is closely tied to America’s military story.

“What began as a USO tour in 1959 grew into hospitals and orphanages for children in Japan and Vietnam. During the Vietnam War, we coordinated Operation Babylift, bringing thousands of orphaned children to safe homes in the U.S.,” says Yvonne.

Today, Childhelp programs extend onto 13 military bases across the country, serving children of service members with prevention and education resources.

“From the very beginning, love has been our compass... love for children, love for family, and love for the values that call us to serve. Partnering with America250 gives us a chance to honor those values on a national stage while shining a light on our mission to protect every child,” says Sara.

HERE AT HOME

“Being a gentleman is not defined by words; it’s defined by action. That belief has guided the Sigma Nu fraternity at Arizona State University for decades, shaping how its brothers see leadership and how they choose to serve,” says Will Maiefski, President of Sigma NU, Arizona State University, and the young man who launched the “Greeks for Childhelp” initiative.

For Sigma Nu, that service has a face and a name: Chuck Hopkins, a fellow brother and the son of Childhelp cofounder Sara O’Meara. In 1988, during ASU’s Homecoming weekend, Chuck’s life was tragically cut short. Out of that loss came a lasting bond. To honor Chuck and his family’s charity, Sigma Nu pledged itself to Childhelp’s mission.

What began as a tribute has since become a tradition of service more than three decades strong. Sigma Nu has raised over $1 million for Childhelp, with annual efforts often nearing six figures. The impact goes beyond the dollars: each year, new generations of young men are shaped by lessons in responsibility, empathy, and the reminder that leadership is about lifting others.

“Organizing large-scale events, rallying support, and advocating for children has become part of who we are,” adds Maiefski, who also serves as National Board Member of Childhelp; President of the Arizona Young Professionals Chapter of Childhelp; and Director of Advocacy for the North American Interfraternity Conference.

The legacy of service is reflected in the fraternity’s alumni. Derrick Hall, President & CEO of the Arizona Diamondbacks; former Tempe Mayor Neil Giuliano; and NBC broadcaster Al Michaels all came through Sigma Nu at ASU, carrying forward the same principles of honor, service, and integrity.

As Maiefski notes: “You don’t have to be in a fraternity to live with purpose. All of us have the chance to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. That is why we stand with Childhelp.”

From the Archives: Sara & Yvonne

Sara, Yvonne and some Signa Nu brothers

RIVIERA RISING

CELEBRITY DESIGNER EVAN GASKIN BRINGS THE HEAT TO HAVASU, REDEFINING LAKE LIVING

On the shores of Lake Havasu, a fresh development is changing everything. Riviera is unlike anything the area has seen: a private marina, concierge toy storage, community pools, and a lifestyle that feels more like a resort than a neighborhood. Within this ambitious vision, designer and developer Evan Gaskin has claimed a handful of coveted plots, each one a chance to bring his signature LA-inspired style to the desert.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

At $6 million, his first Riviera property is setting a record and pushing the market into uncharted territory. Listing broker Scott Grigg of The Grigg’s Group Powered by The Altman Brothers notes that the brokerage focuses on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and this listing is a prime example of that vision in action.

“Lake Havasu has transformed into a true destination. A few years ago, $1 million was considered high end. Now we’re seeing $2–3 million homes consistently, and Evan’s property is the first to push past $6 million. It shows Havasu is ready for ultra-luxury,” says Scott.

For Evan, this house is more than a listing- it’s the culmination of decades of grit and creativity, of lessons earned the hard way, and of a journey that began with sketches scrawled on napkins in diners and glove compartments across Los Angeles. He’s also no stranger to the spotlight, having appeared on multiple episodes of Million Dollar Listing LA, underscoring his long-standing ties with the Altman Brothers and Scott Grigg.

“If you build it, they will come. Lake Havasu has been waiting for this.”

He would know. Evan has been coming to Havasu since he was little. He remembers

being six years old, staring at the London Bridge as crews reassembled it stone by stone, every block numbered, each one a testament to persistence.

“I’ve been waiting to do something here, and now the time is right.”

But the road here wasn’t simple. In the mid-1990s, Evan was running a thriving post-production equipment rental company in Los Angeles serving Hollywood movers and shakers. But September 11th, everything changed.

“Within a week, my business dropped 95%. I had to change my path to support my family.”

“IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME. HAVASU HAS BEEN WAITING FOR THIS.”

That pivot led him to building. At first, almost by accident- a garage he tore down, a guest house he dreamed up… sketches that barely resembled drawings.

“My drawing skills were like a kindergartner’s,” Evan says. “But I knew what I wanted.”

He bought his first flip in Encino for $300,000, remodeled it on credit cards, and sold it eight months later for a $7,500 profit.

“A lot of work for little money, but I loved it.”

His next project in Toluca Lake netted $55,000. Then came a sprawling 6,000-square-foot house in Encino Hills.

“I realized the architect wasn’t understanding what I wanted, so I started drawing over his plans. I’d call out stains for the wood, show pictures of cabinets, and sketch right on the paper. And I had fun. My wife and I were a team. Nothing gave me more joy than showing her what I designed and getting her approval.”

Together, they pushed bigger and bolder, sometimes blowing past budgets because Evan refused to compromise on design.

“I knew design and construction. That’s a powerful combination.”

The validation came when actor Martin Lawrence walked through one of Evan’s homes in Sherman Oaks.

“He told me he had 100% trust in my capabilities. When it was done, Martin invited me over. He popped a two-foot bottle of Ace of Spades champagne and thanked me for not just building a house, but making it a home. The most defining moment of my career.”

Word spread. Evan began designing for musicians, athletes, and moguls. Thanks to NDAs, you’ve likely seen many of his projects featured in national TV shows without ever knowing his name. That’s by design.

“I don’t let clients pick me- I pick them. I don’t chase jobs, and it’s not always about the money. I’ve become the silent, masked man of top design working quietly behind the scenes for the most discerning in the world.”

Within the industry, his peers have taken notice. Evan won an award from Coverings, one of the largest conventions in the world for tile, flooring, and exterior coverings.

“To be recognized by designers at that level meant everything.”

Listing Broker: The Grigg’s Group Powered by The Altman Brothers

Evan Gaskin

But behind the projects and the high-profile clients, Evan’s story carries a profound personal layer. His wife, his partner in life and design, passed away from cancer.

“She was my everything. Losing her was the hardest thing I’ve ever faced. But in everything I design, I carry her with me in every detail.”

That resilience- the drive to create beauty out of loss and a legacy for his children- carries into Evan’s work today. And nowhere is that more visible than Lake Havasu.

“For years, the houses here made me cringe; boxy homes with no inspiration and no soul. I knew I could bring LA’s refinement and sophistication to Havasu.”

Scott Grigg says that vision is exactly what the market needs.

“We’re seeing consistent year-overyear appreciation, limited inventory near the water, and strong demand from out-of-state buyers.”

Simply step inside. Glass entry doors draw your eyes straight through to the lake, with chandeliers casting a warm glow overhead. Inside, custom oak walls and subtle cork textures turn surfaces into art.

The family room flows into a chef’s kitchen, where hidden-paneled appliances and a massive island invite conversation, while floor-to-ceiling glass keeps the water always in view. The bar is a centerpiece, with bronze mirrors and backlit shelves designed to make you linger.

In the master suite, soaring shelves, wood-paneled ceilings, and soft light create a sense of permanence and calm.

“Consider the bathroom your personal wellness spa.”

Outside, an 800-square-foot veranda stretches over a curved pool and a Jacuzzi powered by sixteen jets. The view is endless… desert, lake, and sky.

Keep in mind- Evan isn’t stopping here. He has nine more lots in development, each with its own identity and reshaping what Arizona waterfront living can mean.

“Lake Havasu, once defined by numbered bridge bricks and Spring Break lore, is stepping into its next chapter.”

And Evan is determined to be the one holding the pencil… or the napkin… sketching it into existence.

To make an offer, contact Scott Grigg: thealtmanbrothersgriggsaz.com gaskindesigns.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

MUSE HAUS

FOUNDRESS. A COMMUNITY FOR FEMALE FOUNDERS.

DO BUSINESS LIKE A WOMAN

You don’t need a degree, a title, or a ten-step plan to lead—what you need is permission. Not from the world. From yourself. As women, we’ve been trained to wait: for approval, for expertise, for the “right time.” But the truth? Your dream is the permission slip. Your desire is the plan. Foundress exists to support women to stop waiting and start building—with community, strategy, and the kind of bold conversations that turn ideas into income. This isn’t networking. It’s your next level.

Foundress is the community that has your back! This is for women who are done playing small in business. foundress.co | V@thefound.ress

Learn More About Foundress Here:

A Thankful Heart Is a Healthy Heart

Clinical research shows that people who regularly express thanks experience measurable cardiovascular benefits, including: Gratitude isn’t just an emotion; it’s proven heart medicine.

• Lower blood pressure and stress hormones

• Improved heart rate variability and circulation

• Reduced inflammation and arterial stiffness

• Up to 30% lower risk of heart disease

Dr. Rahul Sharma focuses on prevention, precision, and the powerful connection between mind, body, and heart.

Because gratitude, connection, and lifestyle choices all strengthen your most vital rhythm.

This season, take care of the heart that carries your gratitude... and if you need someone to help keep it beating strong, we’re here.

— Dr. Rahul Sharma

Serving the Valley

Dr. Rahul Sharma offers industry leading cardiovascular care through diagnostic testing, clinical programs, and minimally invasive procedures.

THE LAST Best Place

All Seasons Lead to the Lodge

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE LODGE AT WHITEFISH LAKE

Montana is known as the last best place. Spend a season at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake and you’ll understand why. This isn’t just a hotel on the water. It’s a retreat that feels like home, set against a backdrop of pine forests, alpine peaks, and a lake that mirrors the sky.

There’s a subtle feeling here; part Dirty Dancing nostalgia, part modern luxury. Think family camp, but it’s only your family, with every detail taken care of. Kids race down to the dock, couples toast on the terrace, grandparents retreat to the fireplace, and live music drifts from the Boat Club. The Lodge lets you live Montana at your own pace, with space to spread out in lakefront condominiums and luxury homes, yet the polish of a full-service resort: concierge, spa, marina, dining, valet, pools, and more. Every season carries its own character, and The Lodge is always at the center of it.

FALL: MONTANA’S GOLDEN SEASON

Fall in Whitefish is when the tempo slows. The crowds of summer fade and the trees shift into every shade of amber. Families start mornings with coffee on balconies while fog lifts off the lake, then wander into the Viking Creek Preserve for quiet trails just steps from their door. The Whitefish Trail- a multi-mile network the Lodge helps support- is perfect for family hikes and bike rides through hills painted in fall color. Downtown Whitefish is five minutes away on the Lodge shuttle, with art walks, boutiques, and seasonal harvest festivals. Back at the Lodge, afternoons mean the spa, the indoor pool, and fireplaces glowing as families regroup. Evenings are for connection. The Boat Club Dining Room leans into seasonal menus with sweeping lake views. The Lakeside Pavilion glows with weddings and celebrations framed by glass walls and fiery sunsets. Fall here feels like Montana at its most authentic; crisp days outdoors and warm nights indoors.

WINTER: TRADITION, SNOW, AND CELEBRATION

Winter at The Lodge is a season of ritual. Getting here is simple: a direct flight into Kalispell, a short drive, and within minutes skis are stowed in heated storage, boots on dryers, and fireplaces warming suites.

Days revolve around snow. The Lodge’s complimentary shuttle drops families at Whitefish Mountain Resort, with 3,000 acres of terrain just ten minutes away. The concierge handles the rest: lift tickets, lessons, snowmobiling, or backcountry cat skiing. Kids try snowshoeing in the Viking Creek Preserve or ice fishing on Whitefish Lake in heated shanties. When conditions allow, the lake itself freezes into a natural rink, and families lace up skates for a memory no resort brochure could capture.

The holidays bring an extra layer of tradition. Sundays in December mean Holiday High Tea with white-gloved service, scones, and Santa. The lobby hosts evening refreshers with bubbly, fresh cookies, and “Elf” cookie-and-milk deliveries on Christmas Eve. Christmas Day is anchored by a buffet in the Boat Club, while New Year’s Eve means dinner, live music, fireworks over the lake, topped with a New Year’s Day pajama brunch.

Après-ski belongs to the Lodge. Guests slip into saunas and hot tubs that steam against the snow, book treatments at the award-winning spa, or gather for live music in the Boat Club Bar. Families regroup in condos and homes with space to cook, dry gear, and host their own holiday dinners.

SPRING: RENEWAL WITH ROOM TO BREATHE

Spring is Montana’s quiet season, and that’s exactly why it feels special. Waterfalls roar with melt, wildflowers line the trails, and Glacier National Park stirs awake long before the summer rush.

Mornings start with Sunday yoga overlooking the lake or long breakfasts in the Boat Club. Families spend unhurried days biking into town, hiking the Whitefish Trail as it greens with new life, or exploring the Viking Creek Preserve. Downtown reopens with galleries, theater, and farmer’s markets, giving spring its own small-town charm.

Back at the Lodge, the pace is restorative. Parents retreat to the spa, kids splash in the indoor pool, and evenings stretch into slow dinners in the Regatta Room or State Room with lake views. The light lingers, birds return, and every corner of the property feels like it’s waking up.

SUMMER: LIFE ON THE LAKE

Summer is when The Lodge feels like it was built for you. The marina hums with possibility: paddleboards, kayaks, wakesurfing lessons, and fast water fun. Complimentary canoes are always waiting, and cruiser bikes make it easy to ride into downtown Whitefish or explore shaded trails nearby.

The seasonal lakefront pool is a hub of its own. Kids cannonball, parents sip cocktails from the Tiki Bar, and grandparents watch from loungers with a front-row view of the lake. Out on the water, families tube, fish, and float until the day blurs into afternoon.

Beyond the lake, Whitefish Mountain Resort turns into an alpine playground with slides, ziplines, and an aerial adventure park.

Golfers head to Whitefish Lake Golf Club, while others make the short trip to Glacier National Park. In summer, the famed Goingto-the-Sun Road opens in full; a breathtaking drive carved across the Continental Divide, with vistas that feel otherworldly.

Back at the Lodge, the sun doesn’t set until nearly ten, so kids are still playing on the lawn while music drifts from the marina. Families wander down to the sandy lakeshore to catch sunsets over the water; the perfect close to a day that feels endless.

Explore the new PV, where firstto-market concepts and local favorites are just the beginning

LIVING LIKE HOME

The Lodge blends luxury with living. Lakefront Condominiums offer kitchens, fireplaces, patios, and laundry with the lake just outside your door. Luxury Homes elevate the experience with two to four bedrooms, expansive living spaces, terraces, and fireplaces; private mountain retreats with full resort service. Stunning, spacious, and effortless, they’re designed for families to truly live here. lodgeatwhitefishlake.com

Q.

A.

How can we handle stress in today’s political climate of uncertainty?

Stress doesn’t come from politics or headlines, it comes from us. At its core, all stress is rooted in fear, especially when life feels out of our control or our values feel compromised. The truth is, we create our own stress. And that also means we have the power to change it. Sometimes it starts with questioning the beliefs underneath; are they true, or just old patterns we’ve carried? From there, take one action you can control right now and create the kind of steady, peaceful environment that reminds you: uncertainty doesn’t decide your life, you do.

Ready to create calm and clarity in your life?

Call or text now to schedule your complimentary Breakthrough Session.

Text: 719-238-4635 | www.alainenolt.com

Alaine Nolt is a transformational coach who helps individuals 45+ move from burnout to clarity Through personalized coaching and lifestyle design, she helps clients reclaim their energy, create meaningful change, and experience more peace and purpose in their lives. NOW is the perfect time.

State of Mind The Kihei

Kihei doesn’t ask much of you. The beach is just across the street, the pace is slow, and the sunsets stop you in your tracks. It’s the kind of town where flipflops and saltwater hair count as dressing up, where the air smells of plumeria, and the sound of the ocean is never far. It’s relaxed, unpretentious, and deeply charming, and Maui Coast Hotel feels like it was built to match that rhythm.

Since 1992, the hotel’s Hōkū Tower (Hōkū meaning star) has welcomed travelers with an atmosphere that feels like home. It’s where you’ll still check in today, through a newly refreshed lobby that’s light, modern, and airy but still familiar in its warmth. Many of the staff who greeted the very first guests are still here, and their presence adds to the sense of continuity that keeps people coming back. Evenings are timeless: live music drifting under the palms, couples dancing barefoot by the pool, kids swimming under the star, and happy hour mai tais that taste like vacation itself.

In June 2024, the hotel opened a brand-new chapter with the debut of the Kai Tower ( Kai meaning sea). Built from the ground up, Kai added 162 new guest rooms and suites that bring a fresh modernity while staying true to the laid-back comfort of Kihei. Spacious, airy, and family-friendly, the rooms were designed for easy living, complete with one of the most thoughtful touches a hotel can offer: free laundry on every floor. For parents, long-stay travelers, or anyone living in and out of a suitcase, it’s the little detail that transforms a stay from good to effortless.

Outside, the new saltwater infinity pool is a showpiece, along with the main pool to keep the kids splashing and entertained.

Dining is as casual and flexible as it should be on vacation. The Pool Bar serves food from beloved local favorite Kihei Caffe, making it easy to linger poolside without going anywhere. The lobby café keeps mornings simple with coffee and grab-and-go bites. And now, guests will have even more options with both a new Kihei Caffe restaurant and Miso Phat Sushi available on property.

Ali’i Nui Sailing Charters

Ali’i Nui Sailing Charters

Of course, the hotel’s resort-style amenities make everything easier. There’s a fitness center, pickleball courts, and a hospitality suite. You’ll find EV charging stations on-site, complimentary cruiser bikes to pedal around Kihei, and the hotel’s new all-electric guest shuttle, free for all guests, ready to take you anywhere within three miles. Every detail- from daily conveniences to eco-friendly touches- is about making travel feel light, seamless, and stress-free.

And while Maui Coast is the kind of place where you could happily spend all your time, the island is calling. The hotel’s location makes it easy to connect with unforgettable excursions.

Out on the water, nothing compares to Ali’i Nui Sailing Charters offerings, such as the signature Molokini Deluxe Snorkel. If you’ve ever been on a crowded snorkeling boat, erase that image. This is different. From the moment you board, the pace slows: breakfast is served as your private vessel moves toward Molokini, the crescent-shaped marine preserve renowned for its clarity and abundance of marine life. The water is so clear you can see 150 feet down, alive with more than 400 species of fish and vibrant coral. Premium gear, reefsafe sunscreen, towels... it’s all waiting for you. Topped with visiting Maui’s esteemed Turtle Town, you’ll never want to go group snorkeling again.

Ali’i Nui Sailing Charters also offers Maui’s Most Elegant Sunset Dinner Sail, a golden-hour escape aboard a luxurious catamaran. The five-course culinary journey showcases the island’s finest seasonal flavors, paired with handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and premium upgrades like fresh lobster grilled onboard. With limited capacity and an adults-only setting, the evening feels intimate and refined. (aliinuimaui.com)

If your heart pulls you inland, Hike Maui offers a completely different adventure. They pick you up right at the hotel, pack your lunch, and lead you deep into the rainforest to places only locals frequent.

CONTINUED >

LIVE WITH INTENTION, BUILD WITH INTEGRITY

Their most popular trek winds through lush rainforests, where you’ll encounter three to five waterfalls ranging from 10 to 40 feet high. Each cascades into natural pools you can swim in, and if you’re fearless, you can leap from the cliffs into the cool, clear water below. Along the way, your naturalist guide shares stories about Maui’s plants and animals, making the journey as educational as it is exhilarating. The day ends with the ultimate refresh: a “shower” under a picture-perfect waterfall, one of those moments that stays with you long after you’ve left the island. ( hikemaui.com)

At the end of it all, you come back to Maui Coast Hotel. To the ease of a spacious room with laundry down the hall. To the infinity pool glowing in the last light of the day. To live music under the palms, kids swimming past bedtime, and a mai tai at happy hour with nothing else on your mind.

mauicoasthotel.com

Dr. Sheridan James combines the best of western and functional medicine to uncover and address the root causes of health concerns.

Her concierge practice focuses on preventative and precision medicine, helping patients achieve optimal wellness through personalized, proactive care.

Members enjoy direct access to Dr. James via phone, text, email, or video visits—ensuring ongoing support and continuity of care beyond the traditional office setting

THANKFUL FOR VIEWS LIKE THESE

6 BEDROOMS • 7 BATHROOMS

9498 SQFT • DETACHED GUEST CASITA

$17,995,000

Perched on more than 8 private acres in Silverleaf’s prestigious Upper Canyon, this reimagined 9,498 sq. ft. estate is the pinnacle of modern luxury. Walls of disappearing glass blur the line between indoors and out, showcasing sweeping vistas of twinkling city lights, fiery sunsets, and the lush Silverleaf golf course. Designed with both grand-scale entertaining and intimate living in mind, the residence offers five ensuite bedrooms, including a main-level primary suite with spainspired bath and boutique-style closets.

The main living area boasts a chef’s gourmet kitchen, a soaring great room, and a sleek modern parlor joined by a dual-sided fireplace. A 4-car garage, expandable to 6 with lifts, and a detached casita complete the estate. Following a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2024, the home now rivals new construction in quality and design. Coveted Silverleaf Golf Membership Available.

Listed by Debbie Sinani

480.262.1975

debbiesinani.com

debbie.sinani@theagencyre.com

5 MINUTES WITH... JASON MONCZKA

Meet the Man Behind the Column

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTTSDALE EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY, BARRET ELENGOLD

Every month, Jason Monczka pens our  5 Minutes With… column; a spotlight on the visionaries shaping culture, business, and impact, offering candid, story-rich moments that reveal not just what they’ve built, but why it matters.

This month, however, we’re turning the table on him. In honor of our Giving Issue, we wanted to explore Jason’s own passion for connection. He’s a giver at heart- whether through relationships, community, or opportunity, and we felt it was time you got to know the person behind the column.

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE CURATED, IN-PERSON CONVERSATIONS ARE MORE POWERFUL THAN DIGITAL ONES?

I think it’s a step beyond what you’re seeing. There is nothing greater than feeling a true connection with someone... finding a bond that ties you together. To foster this type of environment, I go beyond just hosting events; I purposefully invite people I want to introduce to one another. I’ve seen countless partnerships form and prosper simply by bringing the right people together. Some say it’s a gift. Maybe it’s just thinking about what’s important to others.

CAN YOU SHARE AN EXAMPLE OF A VENTURE THAT WAS BORN FROM SIMPLY PUTTING THE RIGHT PEOPLE IN THE RIGHT ROOM?

My gosh, I’ve been encouraged countless times to write a book on all of the people I have brought together and the ventures they have formed. One of the largest capital raises in Arizona’s history- worth hundreds of millions- came out of it. And that’s just one example. It all stems from putting good, honest, like-minded people in the same room.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO LAUNCH VISIONARY VOICES, AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED SINCE THAT FIRST GATHERING?

I’ve hosted a lot of different, high-profile events throughout my career, mainly to bring good people together. Last year, I did some unique things like flying in a famous French chef for a cooking demo. This year and moving forward, I want to elevate conversation and bring world-caliber people here to Arizona. I see Visionary Voices growing by making it about and for others and having them use it to add value to their network. I’m hopeful it will become a staple of aspiration in the Valley.

MOST CEOS SPEND THEIR LIVES PLAYING DEFENSE, PROTECTING WHAT THEY HAVE INSTEAD OF LEVERAGING RISK AS AN ADVANTAGE. WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO FLIP THAT MINDSET?

With insurance rates set to spike as much as 50% next year, I refuse to let my clients sit back and play defense. Instead, I’m equipping them with captives and 831(b) plans; tools that reduce costs, protect their operating budget, and quietly build fortunes.

HOW DO YOU HOPE THE NEXT GENERATION WILL CARRY FORWARD YOUR VISION?

That’s the thing about mentoring: it’s not my vision. It’s about building someone’s confidence so they can carry forward on their own. I feel immense pride when I know I’ve positively touched another person’s life.

VISIONARY VOICES RETURNS: DECEMBER 9

A night reserved for business leaders who think bigger and demand more. This gathering promises intimate dialogue, highvalue relationships, and the spark to lead bolder. Seats are limited. Coming soon: the topic and guest speakers that will elevate the conversation even further.

ABOUT JASON

Jason Monczka is a PVCL columnist and principal at Pomeroy Group, where he helps mid-market companies navigate complexity in commercial and group health insurance. He also founded Visionary Voices, a private series uniting respected leaders in business, entertainment, and culture for conversations that don’t happen anywhere else. jason.monczka@pomeroygroup.com

Coming soon to Scottsdale... Lasting Wellness Center, A destination redefining how we heal

Led by Dr. Sharon Stills and Dr. Ben Stills, the center brings together advanced global diagnostics and holistic therapeutics to help YOU reinvent yourself naturally.

Experience vitality, balance, and abundance in a space designed for true healing.

Learn more by reaching out.

“I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING YOU BECOME HEALTHY, ADVENTUROUS & CONFIDENT IN LIFE.”

21 Questions with Chef Richard Rodriguez

MEET THE EXECUTIVE CHEF OF

In true PVCL fashion, every month we play a game of 21 Questions with an esteemed Valley chef. This time, we sat down with Chef Richard Rodriguez, Executive Chef of Mastro’s City Hall Steakhouse.

Here, he opens up about family traditions, hidden gems on the menu, and what guests can expect when they dine at his table.

1. YOU’RE ORIGINALLY FROM NEW YORK. WHAT NY INFLUENCES STILL SHOW UP IN YOUR COOKING TODAY?

The big city hustle gave me my sense of urgency.

2. WHAT DREW YOU INTO THE KITCHEN?

My grandfather and uncle were chefs. Cooking has always been a family tradition.

3. WHAT’S ONE DISH ON THE MASTRO’S MENU THAT FEELS THE MOST PERSONAL TO YOU?

Love our 22 oz. Ribeye.

4. SCOTTSDALE HAS SUCH A DISTINCTIVE DINING SCENE. HOW DO YOU APPROACH PUTTING YOUR STAMP ON A CLASSIC STEAKHOUSE?

Offering exclusives like Kobe, Wagyu, and dry-aged steaks.

5. WHAT’S A HIDDEN GEM ON THE MENU THAT’S OFTEN OVERLOOKED?

Our Pork Chop is the unsung hero of the menu.

6. IF YOU HAD TO DESCRIBE YOUR FOOD PHILOSOPHY IN THREE WORDS, WHICH ONES WOULD YOU CHOOSE? Classic, Elegant, Decadent.

7. WHAT’S THE MOST SURPRISING OR MEMORABLE REQUEST YOU’VE HAD FROM A GUEST?

Guests often ask for a picture with the Chef, which is always a fun moment.

8. STEAKHOUSE LIGHTNING ROUND: RIBEYE, FILET, OR TOMAHAWK? You can’t go wrong with a tomahawk!

9. MASTRO’S IS FAMOUS FOR ITS SIDES. WHICH ONE IS YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITE AND WHY?

Our Scalloped Potatoes complement any steak perfectly.

10. AFTER A LONG SHIFT, WHAT’S YOUR ULTIMATE COMFORT MEAL? A bowl of ramen does the trick.

11. WHO’S ONE CHEF YOU’D JUMP AT THE CHANCE TO SHARE A KITCHEN WITH, LIVING OR NOT?

Emeril Lagasse, his passion has always inspired me.

12. HOW DO YOU BALANCE THE LEGACY OF A NAME LIKE MASTRO’S WITH YOUR OWN CREATIVITY AS A CHEF?

We get creative with special requests as well as private events.

13. EVERY KITCHEN HAS ITS SOUNDTRACK. WHAT’S USUALLY PLAYING WHEN YOU’RE IN THE ZONE? Early 2000s rock gets me pumped.

14. IF YOU WEREN’T A CHEF, WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU? Most likely in the military.

15. IS THERE ONE INGREDIENT YOU FIND YOURSELF REACHING FOR MORE THAN ANY OTHER?

Soy sauce is always close at hand.

“Insider tip? Don’t be afraid to undercook your steak a little. You can always bring it up a bit, but once it’s overcooked, there’s no going back.”

16. AND ON THE FLIP SIDE, WHAT INGREDIENT OR TREND WOULD YOU HAPPILY LEAVE BEHIND?

Ranch dressing doesn’t need to be on everything.

17. LOOKING BACK, WHAT’S BEEN THE MOST PINCH-ME MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

Becoming Executive Chef at Mastro’s City Hall.

18. WHEN YOU’RE OFF THE CLOCK, WHERE IN THE VALLEY DO YOU LIKE TO GRAB A BITE?

My kids and I love trying new burger joints.

19. WHAT’S ONE LESSON FROM THE KITCHEN THAT’S SHAPED HOW YOU LIVE OUTSIDE OF IT?

The importance of being organized.

20. FOR PEOPLE TRYING TO BRING A LITTLE STEAKHOUSE MAGIC HOME, WHAT’S YOUR INSIDER TIP?

Don’t be afraid to undercook your steak a little. You can always bring it up a bit, but once it’s overcooked, there’s no going back.

21. WOULD WE CATCH YOU HIKING CAMELBACK, HITTING THE GOLF COURSE, OR CHILLING POOLSIDE?

Definitely chilling poolside.

mastrosrestaurants.com/location/ mastros-steakhouse-city-hall-scottsdale

BEYOND THE HOLIDAY BIRD

Seasonal Flavors to Be Thankful For at Hotel Valley Ho’s ZuZu

As the season of thanks settles in, we’re raising a fork to dishes that bring people together. From shareable starters to cozy mains, here are five reasons to gather at ZuZu this month.

R+R Cheesesteak (lunch entrée) -$19

Move over Philly... The Valley’s version brings shaved ribeye, Cooper Sharp American, white wiz, and caramelized sofrito together on a seeded semolina hoagie, creating a hearty, nostalgic classic.

Skillet Mussels + Clams (dinner starter) -$24

Iberico chorizo, chili butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon served with grilled Noble sourdough. A dish for sharing and savoring.

Blistered Romanesco (dinner starter) -$14

Fromage blanc, capers, parsley, pickled onion, Calabrian chiles, cashews, Thai basil, and fried shallots. A colorful celebration of seasonal produce.

Terra Heritage Wagyu Beef Carpaccio (dinner starter) -$21

Dijonnaise, grana padano, caperberries, and pumpernickel crumble. Elegant, indulgent, and bold.

Scottish Salmon (dinner entrée) -$42

Forbidden fried rice, brown sugar umami glaze, and an Arizona citrus salad. Bright, comforting, and a perfect alternative to the holiday bird.

hotelvalleyho.com/zuzu

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOTEL VALLEY HO

Skillet Mussels + Clams

H O P E

Begins with YOU

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

November Episodes: Now with Nadine

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY & ALL STREAMING PLATFORMS

Every week, Nadine takes you beyond the pages of the magazine through her nationally syndicated podcast,  Now with Nadine. With a focus on diving deep, she brings you inspiring conversations with the incredible individuals you read about right here in the magazine. Spanning athletes, actors and esteemed entrepreneurs, each episode offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at their journeys, challenges, and triumphs.

NOVEMBER DROPS

Unfiltered, unapologetic, and unforgettable... Gene Simmons gets us laughing and lays it all out. Probably the wildest interview I’ve ever had.

Record-setting kicker, community leader, and all-around storyteller. This one’s honest, motivating, and downright interesting.

Listen on Spotify and all nationwide streaming platforms by searching Now with Nadine Prefer to watch everyone in action? bit.ly/nowwithnadine  Produced at Dave Pratt’s STAR WorldWide Networks

From the trenches to the mic, AQ Shipley brings grit, humor, and honesty as the Cardinals’ new voice.

From Spanky to State Forty Eight, Michael Spangenberg gets real about life, legacy, and the movement he helped create.

GENE SIMMONS

NICK LOWERY

AQ SHIPLEY

MIKE SPANGENBERG

FEEDS 8–10 | FULL MEAL $459.99 (PLUS TAX)

Everything is beautifully packaged in disposable containers, ready for easy pickup.Available à la carte or as a full meal.

MAIN COURSE

20–22 lb Whole Roasted Turkey (GF) – $169.99

Whole roasted turkey stuffed with sweet yellow onion and fresh orange slices, glazed with white wine compound butter, and sprinkled with fresh herbs. Served with pan roast gravy and cranberry orange relish.

Artisan Bread Stuffing (V) – $45

Brioche croutons with caramelized fennel, Granny Smith apple, butternut squash, shaved celery, and Vidalia onion roasted in herb-citrus butter.

Haricot Vert w/ Sliced Almonds (V, GF) – $50

Petite green beans tossed with lemon-olive oil, almond slices, and chives.

Double Turkey Breast – $84.99 (Not included in full meal package)

Tender double turkey breast served with pan roast gravy and cranberry orange relish.

SIDES & TRIMMINGS

Farmer’s Market Greens (V, GF) – $40

Mixed baby field greens with dried cranberries, toasted pecans, feta cheese, and raspberry vinaigrette.

Arizona Honey Glazed Carrots (V, GF) – $50

Roasted baby carrots finished in a fragrant Arizona honey–citrus glaze.

12 Fresh-Baked Brioche Rolls (V) – $24

Served with salted butter.

DESSERT

Choose One Pie (included in full meal):

Pumpkin Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream

Candied Sweet

Caramelized

and

(V, GF) – $45

Classic Whipped Potatoes (V, GF) – $45

Creamy whipped russet potatoes finished with European butter, parmesan, & Italian parsley.

Pecan Pie with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

Additional pies available – $30 each

Potatoes

sweet potato slices with maple syrup, pecans,

mini marshmallows, finished with flaky sea salt.

As The Seasons Change, So Are We.

We’re thrilled to share our new chapter as Preferred Plastic Surgery, now located at 8994 E Desert Cove Avenue in Scottsdale.

Dr. Samuel DeVictor is not just a facial plastic surgeon; he’s a dedicated practitioner who views his profession as an art form.

Now partnering with Dr. Marc Malek, Dr. DeVictor’s practice has expanded into a beautiful new facility featuring a state-of-the-art surgery center & Med Spa.

(480) 551-2040

New name. New space. Same trusted care.