Paradise Valley August 2015

Paradise Valley AUGUST 2015

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In The DON BLUTH CREATES PURE MAGIC WITH ANIMATION SAVOR THE FLAVORS OF ITALY AT POSTINO WINECAFE ACE COLLEGE ADMISSIONS WITH JESSICA SHARKEY

Editor's Letter

Celebrate your community.

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There really is no place like home. Whether it’s the comfort of a home-cooked meal, spending time with beloved friends, dining at a favorite restaurant or visiting a local shop, each of our communities hold something that is near and dear to our hearts. But what really makes a town special is the people that live in it, from your best friend or neighbor to someone you’ve never met before, with every person adding their own splash of color to the local scene.

In the August “Home Grown” issue, we invite you to meet some of the wonderful local people and businesses that keep Paradise Valley alive and thriving. Take, for instance, animator extraordinaire, Don Bluth, who has created best-loved classics such as The Land Before Time, An American Tail, Anastasia and The Secret of NIMH. He also runs the Front Row Theatre in Scottsdale, where you can spend an afternoon or evening watching wonderfully executed plays and musicals.

AUGUST 2015 publisher

Gary Carr | GCarr@LifestylePubs.com

editor

Danielle Accovelli | Danielle.Accovelli@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Kathleen Blair, Michelle Guerrero, Kory Kilmer, Kendra Mathewson, Brian Rose, Alison Stanton

contributing photographers Michael Alberti, Bethany Garvey

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry

If local dining is your cup of tea, try savoring some exquisite Italian cuisine at the locally owned and operated Postino Winecafe, just make sure to sample their legendary bruschetta board—you won’t regret it, I promise.

With the arrival of August, summer begins winding down while school begins revving up and minds move toward thoughts of the future. That’s where college prep expert Jessica Sharkey enters. This talented, admissions-savvy local helps guide students in every part of the college planning process—from choosing the school that’s the best fit for them to the admissions application and essay.

chief financial officer | DeLand Shore director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Chelsi Hornbaker layout designer | Nicole Sylvester copy editor | Kendra Mathewson executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell web developer | Hanna Park

With all the wonderful local people and places you will get to know in this issue, I encourage you to take this last month of summer to explore and get to know your community better—you might be surprised at what you discover.

it director | Randy Aufderheide

Until next month,

Danielle Accovelli, Editor

by Community ™

PVLifestylepubs.com ON THE COVER We celebrate Paradise Valley’s own inspiring animator, Don Bluth.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL ALBERTI

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Paradise Valley’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

August 2015

Departments

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8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Hot Spot

14

Road Trip

16

Locally Owned

22

Giving Back

24

Local Limelight

26

Style Wise

29

Sold Properties

biltmore arcadia 30 Lifestyle Calendar

16 Made in the Shade Carefree Coverings knows how to beat the window heat.

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Parting Thoughts

18 Animation Inspiration Meet the man behind the movies, Don Bluth.

20 Prep for College Like a Pro Admissions made easy with Jessica Sharkey.

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CREATING BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILES FOR LIFE. At Beischel Family Dentistry, Dr. Douglas Beischel and his team have your dental health and smile as their top priority. We are committed to providing the highest standards of care and customer service to our patients, in a modern, clean, tranquil environment.

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Good Times

Kelly’s at SouthBridge's Third Anniversary Party Kelly’s At SouthBridge celebrated its three-year anniversary in style with Kelly’s Annual Affair in Scottsdale. The glamorous 1920s and 30s themed event featured music, guests dressed as flappers, beverages and a sweet candy bar.

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

Arians Family Foundation Fundraiser

Arizona Cardinals Head Coach and 2014 NFL Coach of the Year Bruce Arians recently hosted his inaugural Arians Family Foundation Fundraiser Dinner at Steak 44. Proceeds from the dinner benefited the Arians Family Foundation and Voices For Casa Children of Maricopa County.

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www . ClaudiaPartovi.com claudia@partovi . com August 2015 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

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Around Town SCOTTSDALE, PARADISE VALLEY BUSINESS LEADERS RECOGNIZED IN ‘CHAMBERS USA 2015’ The national law firm of Quarles & Brady LLP has announced that North Scottsdale residents Steven P. Emerick and Roger Morris, as well as Paradise Valley resident Don P. Martin, all partners in the local office of Quarles & Brady, have been ranked in the 2015 edition of the esteemed “Chambers USA” directory.

“Chambers USA” ranks attorneys and law firms based on reputation. Researchers spend six months speaking with clients and lawyers across the United States and conduct thousands of in-depth telephone interviews. Law firms and individual attorneys are then ranked based on the interviews. Ranking criteria includes technical and legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial awareness and astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other qualities most valued by clients. Inclusion in the guide is based solely on the research team’s findings. Additional information can be found online at Quarles.com.

WESTROC HOSPITALITY AND WOODBINE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION CONSTRUCT BOUTIQUE PROPERTY Westroc Hospitality and Woodbine Development Corporation are partnering to develop a new luxury resort on the former location of Paradise Valley’s iconic Mountain Shadows Resort. With escrow now closed, construction is scheduled to begin this summer at the southwest corner of 56th St. and Lincoln Dr., with a projected opening in early 2017. The boutique luxury resort will feature 180 modern guest rooms in two buildings, an adjacent building with 32 hotel-condominium units, a neighborhood restaurant and market, a high-tech fitness facility, and the rehabilitated Mountain Shadows Golf Course with 18 executive-style holes.

The Marriott Mountain Shadows Resort, one of the first resorts in the area, closed in 2004, and was demolished in 2014. The new Mountain Shadows Resort will capitalize on Woodbine’s 40 years of hospitality and mixed-use-development experience, including Kierland Commons and the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa. This strength, combined with Westroc Hospitality’s expertise in boutique resort redevelopment, including 10

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

the retro-chic Hotel Valley Ho in Downtown Scottsdale and the luxurious Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, will bring the first new-build hotel property to the area in the last seven years.

“Woodbine has had its eye on this piece of property for years, knowing how much potential exists to restore Mountain Shadows to its former glory,” says Woodbine President and CEO John Scovell. Westroc CEO and Paradise Valley resident Scott Lyon states, “This is a tremendous opportunity to blend the history of the property with a fresh, contemporary design that will complement the amazing views of Camelback Mountain and the prestigious neighborhood of Mountain Shadows in Paradise Valley.”

CHILD HELP ANNOUNCES CHAIRS FOR ANNUAL GALA

FIRSTBANK CONTINUES ARIZONA EXPANSION WITH NEW BRANCH AT PINNACLE PEAK FirstBank Holding Company, a holding company with multiple banking locations throughout Arizona, announced the opening of its newest branch in North Scottsdale at 23399 N. Scottsdale Rd., Suite E101. The 4,000-squarefoot location officially opened on May 13, marking FirstBank’s 16th branch in Arizona.

“FirstBank’s rapid growth throughout Phoenix has been very exciting and we’re proud to add another Scottsdale location, play an active role and make a positive impact within our local community,” says Bryce Lloyd, president - Phoenix market. “Since we entered the Phoenix market eight years ago, we have worked hard to become a resource for individuals, families, businesses and non-profits across Arizona. Adding this new branch in North Scottsdale helps us expand that footprint to become an even greater resource to our customers.” EFirstBank.com

SCOTTSDALE COMPANY CELEBRATES TENTH ANNIVERSARY PROVIDING NON-PROFITS WITH 50-PLUS TOOLS AND SERVICES.

Blacktie-Arizona, part of a national comChildhelp ® is pleased to announce the chairs pany providing web-based event planning for the 12th Annual Childhelp Drive the Dream and promotional tools for nonprofits, assoGala. Community Leaders Char Hubble, Debo- ciations and businesses, just celebrated its rah Pshebniski and Erika Williams will lend their tenth anniversary. The company brings visitremendous support to the event through plan- bility and cutting-edge online tools to thouning, fundraising and generating awareness. sands of nonprofit agencies and businesses Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson DC, CNS, DABAAHP, in the Valley. Myra Richman, president of FAARM and Richard J. Stephenson of Cancer Blacktie-Arizona, says, “It’s very rewarding to Treatment Centers of America are serving as see how much help we can provide our memhonorary chairs. Bob and Pat Bondurant of Bob bers in order to help them facilitate the everyBondurant School of High Performance Driving day tasks of running their organizations.” The will serve as gala special advisors. Childhelp's company serves as a clearinghouse of events Drive the Dream Gala “A Night of Wonder- and services for the nonprofit, business and ment” will take place on Saturday, January 23, philanthropic community, offering a variety 2016 at the Arizona Biltmore. of web-based tools and photo/story cover“We are blessed to have these amazing age. Blacktie provides a variety of functions women as part of the Childhelp Drive the for its members, including photo/story covDream Gala,” says Sara O’Meara, co-found- erage of events and posting 30-60 photos er, CEO and chairwoman of the board for of each event on the Blacktie site within 48 Childhelp. “Each has insurmountable pas- hours, as well as a comprehensive calension, knowledge and experience with char- dar of nonprofit fundraising events for adity events and Yvonne and I would like to vance planning and scheduling purposes, extend a heartfelt thank you for agreeing to among many other services. be our Dream Team.” ChildHelp.org

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SCOTTSDALE-BASED IDEAS COLLIDE COMMUNICATION AND MARKETING AGENCY CELEBRATES TENTH ANNIVERSARY Scottsdale-based Ideas Collide Communication and Marketing Agency recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary at the Hotel Valley Ho Skyline Rooftop with special guests from the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation. Ideas Collide was pleased to be able to donate $7,500, along with $2,500 in toys and gifts to the foundation that evening.

Ideas Collide has been an economic driver and community supporter in the Valley for 10 years, and is still going strong. They are a full-service agency that works with high profile companies such as Best Western International, Intel and Komen CAN AZ, just to name a few. Through mostly wordof-mouth, the creative marketing agency is proud to work with a diverse set of over 30 clients globally. The agency just hired its 30th employee and will be adding six additional team members. In addition, the agency will expand its office space over the course of the next four months. In 2013, the Business Journal named owner Matthew Clyde to the “40 Under 40” list of influential business leaders in Phoenix, and the HSMAI (Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International) recognized him on their list of “Top 25 Minds in Sales & Marketing.” Clyde is the board chair of Phoenix’s Valley Young Professionals group and also donates time and services to Little Kids Rock, among other non-profits. IdeasCollide.com

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Call to visit our Scottsdale Showroom Lic. ROC 108146 • Bonded • Insured August 2015 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

11

Hot Spot

Photo Upward Projects

More Than a Restaurant SAVOR SUMPTUOUS ITALIAN CUISINE AT POSTINO WINECAFE ARTICLE KATHLEEN BLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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f you’ve lived in the Valley for a while, you’ve undoubtedly heard of or experienced the wonderful cuisine at Postino WineCafe.

This legendary restaurant (the name means "post office" in Italian) made its home in the old Arcadia Post Office 14 years ago, and continues to be a neighborhood favorite.

The restaurant’s parent company, Upward Projects, is owned by founding partner Greg DeMarco and his wife Kris, along with their ASU alumni friends, Lauren and Wyatt Bailey. Their mission is to restore old buildings and turn them into fabulous restaurants.

They now have four Postino restaurants under their belt in Arcadia, Central, Tempe and Gilbert. Their other restaurant concepts include Windsor, Churn, Joyride Taco House and Federal Pizza.

DeMarco started in the restaurant industry at age 15 after he asked his dad for a car and was told to get a job. He started out washing dishes and later became a server. Then, 15 years later on a family trip to Italy, he noticed that all the small towns they visited had local wine bars. Once in the U.S. again, he saw the old Arcadia Post Office and founded Postino WineCafe. This also started the concept of adapted reuse—taking an old building in a neighborhood and repurposing it. To date, Upward Projects has repurposed a couple of old banks, a school and a post office.

“I am very grateful and appreciative of all the support the community has given me all these years. Our restaurants are surrounded by amazing neighborhoods,” states DeMarco.

UPSCALE CASUAL

Postino’s is welcoming and relaxing, with an outdoor patio, a lounge and small tables. Their long bar with a TV is great for an after work happy hour or late night snack. And, a wonderful display of wines is stationed for your selection to enjoy there or at home.

I started my sampling with an appetizer of olives—a blend of Luques, Picholine, Gaeta, Red Cerignola, Arbequina and Castel12

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

vetrano. I enjoyed the tasty selection, referring to them by size and color. Other appetizers include NYC Grilled Cheese; Bella Postino, a warm artichoke dip and white bean hummus; an artisan Cheese Board and a Butcher’s Block Board with cheeses, hummus, asparagus, olives, nuts and crostini, just to name a few.

Popular Panini sandwiches include Tuscan Tuna; the Nine Iron with hickory smoked bacon and grilled chicken; a vegetarian option; an Autostrada of Italian cheeses and meats; Prosciutto and Brie; Chicken and Mozzarella and Turkey and Roast Beef, all served on your choice of ciabatta or focaccia bread with a side salad or Yukon Gold chips.

I immensely enjoyed their legendary bruschetta board, which offers a dozen selections. The four I sampled were the Brie and Apple with fig spread; the Prosciutto, Fig and Mascarpone; the BLT and the seasonal Mascarpone and Mortadella. Postino definitely sets the bar for having the best bruschetta in the Valley. Warning: they’re habit forming.

Fresh soup is offered daily, along with four salads. I tasted the Raspberry Chicken Salad and loved the raspberry dressing. Other salads include Mixed Greens, Hannah’s Field and Italian Picnic. I recommend you do a combination of two, which can be a half of any Panini sandwich, a side of any salad and a cup of soup.

JOURNEY OF FLAVORS

Chef Chris Newstrom, culinary director for all eight locations, also started his career at the age of 15, working as waiter at Westminster Abby in Scottsdale. From there, he worked at a fast food establishment, but his hands-on experience came from threeand-half years working at a country club in Tonto Verde.

Chef Chris likes to create food that is interesting and fun, using only the freshest ingredients from local suppliers. Everything on the menu is made daily, including house made dressings and granolas.

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“My goal is to create a journey of flavors that starts with colors and textures that keep you excited from your first bite to your last,” states Chef Chris.

A mouth-watering menu is also offered for brunch every weekend from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Some items include a Farm Scramble; the BELT—bacon, egg, lettuce and tomato; Ciabatta French Toast and many others.

Postino WineCafe started as a concept, and continues to be more than just a restaurant. It has preserved a bit of history by repurposing older buildings and has brought an urban-style feeling to neighborhoods. That mission will continue with the opening of another Postino WineCafe in North Scottsdale, Kierland in October and another in an old bank building

by Fashion Square Mall by year’s end.

POSTINO WINECAFE

3939 E. Campbell Avenue Phoenix, AZ 602.852.3939 PostinoWineCafe.com HOURS: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

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Happy Hour: 11a.m. – 5 p.m.

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Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 7/18/15 – 9/14/15 from participating dealers in the U.S . only.

A qualifying purchase is defi ned as a purchase of the product model set forth above in the quantity set forth above. If you purchase less than the specifi ed quantity, you will not be entitled to a rebate. Offer excludes Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2015 Hunter Douglas.

All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

August 2015 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

13

Road Trip

The Perfect Family Getaway LOEWS CORONADO BAY OFFERS A PHENOMENAL STAY BY THE SEA ARTICLE BRIAN ROSE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Photo Loews Coronado Bay

W

ith all the planning that goes into making a vacation memorable, the last thing any parent wants to hear from their kids is “I’m bored.”

Loews Coronado Bay Resort in San Diego has quickly become one of the most desirable hotels to visit, and it only takes a few seconds on their location to see why. At Loews Coronado Bay, they make you feel right at home. This four-star resort is situated on a private 15-acre peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and Coronado Bay, and is only minutes from downtown Coronado, a charming resort village, and a short drive to San Diego’s world-famous attractions.

Resort amenities include direct access to Silver Strand State Beach, three tennis courts, a private 81-slip marina, three heated swimming pools, professional poolside service, three acclaimed restaurants, 439 sea-inspired guest rooms and suites, and panoramic views of the San Diego- Coronado Bay. I’m sure most guests feel the same way my family did during our first visit, like we wouldn’t be leaving the premise anytime soon. And there’s really no reason to.

The resort was recently named one of USA Today’s 10 Best Resorts in San Diego, and is truly a private oasis. Every room is perfectly designed with pillow top beds sporting down comforters and Frette Italian sheets, and the views from their private, furnished balconies and patios are absolutely stunning.

They have an exquisite Sea Spa on site, featuring 15 luxurious treatment rooms—including a couple’s suite, four outdoor treatment areas and a Vichy rain shower —for a variety of massage, facial and body services. A tranquil spa patio is home to one of Southern California’s only Watsu pools, featuring their signature Watsu flotation massage.

You can also take advantage of their professional fitness center and personal training classes before heading over to the Market To-Go area to fill up on delicious, all-natural made-to-order juice blends that are sure to refresh you for the day ahead.

One of the biggest impressions Loews made on us was their family-friendly service. They pride themselves on catering to guests of all ages with a host of specially curated amenities and services.

“Loews is committed to maintaining a local connection at each of our properties, with each hotel experience reflecting the destination’s personality,” says Kirk Kinsell, president & CEO of Loews Hotels & Resorts. “Our ‘Summer Like a Local’ program gives guests an added incentive to get out and explore the city they are visiting 14

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

with family and friends, and experience something they may have otherwise not even known about.”

For the younger kids, they have scavenger hunts, a private playground, pizza-making workshops and bayside marshmallow roasts. The hotel's Pottery Barn Kids Club was also recognized for its innovative activities, including rocket experiments and magic tricks, making Loews Coronado Bay Resort one of the most family-friendly hotels in San Diego.

In addition, they also partner with Action Sports Rentals so families with older kids and teenagers can enjoy jet skis, paddleboats, kayaks, water skis, kneeboards, beach cruisers and powerboats.

“We are thrilled to work with Pacific Avalon, out of Newport Beach, to expand our event offerings from waterfront to on-the-water,” says Sean Clancy, managing director at Loews Coronado Bay Resort. “We carefully selected this partnership based on the stateof-the-art yachts and long-standing reputation of this company. We are proud to bring additional business and offerings down the coast to San Diego.” Pacific Avalon owns, operates and maintains all of its yachts, providing the best care and service for its guests.

One of the best experiences we had as a family was the private sailing. A professional skipper gave us a tour of Coronado Bay and taught us about the history of San Diego as we took in all the sights and sounds of the city.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort also features award-winning dining experiences led by Executive Chef Nicolas Bour. They have put together the perfect collection of both sophisticated cuisine and kid-friendly choices. Their extensive wine list offers classic and undiscovered wines that are both tasteful and affordable. I recommend enjoying them as you take in the breathtaking views and spectacular sunsets overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Once the sun sets, enjoy a signature cocktail or a locally brewed craft beer, then head outside to the Bay Terrance to relax on an oversized teak sofa while cozying up in front of the fireplace. It truly is the perfect vacation spot for the whole family.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort is a luxury California experience offering an exceptional level of service, a full spectrum of guest amenities and superb dining experiences. We will absolutely be back for another vacation at Loews Coronado Bay Resort.

For more information call 619.424.4000, 800.23.LOEWS or visit

LoewsHotels.com

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Locally Owned

Carefree Coverings MADE FOR THE SHADE WINDOW ADORNMENTS ARTICLE KORY KILMER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A

fter getting out of the Army, Gary Pelow was a trained engineer with a passion for photography, and never would have envisioned getting into the window covering business, not to mention finding himself living in Arizona. But after starting and running a successful interior design company in Las Vegas for a few years, an opportunity presented itself in the Valley of the Sun. Never one to back down from a challenge, and always an entrepreneur, Gary saw an opportunity to get into the window covering and fashion market and fill a void by serving the northeast metro area.

Through his time working in interior design, he had established a solid relationship with Hunter Douglas window furnishings. Soon, after becoming an authorized dealer, Carefree Coverings was born.

To help him during those early days prior to having a showroom, Gary customized a 14-passenger van to help show off his inventory.

The van is surrounded with 14 windows, each of which has been fitted with a different window covering, including seven different lifting systems and motorization. It is also wrapped with Hunter Douglas branding and acts as a roving billboard as it makes its way around town.

“Before that, it was tough,” explains Pelow. “I could show people different products and colors out of a catalogue, but I couldn’t show them how anything worked. But with the van, I can pull up to somebody’s house and show my clients all sorts of different options, as well as how they operate. It has proven to be a wonderful tool.”

Gary opened his first brick and mortar showroom in 2006, but was quickly faced with a struggling economy and slow sales. Rather than give up, he decided to adapt, and again reached out to Hunter Douglas to receive education and training on window treatment repair. Through that, he eventually became a Hunter Douglas master installer and a certified repairman. He then achieved a specialization in motorization, which allowed him to pick up jobs on the higher end of the spectrum where others did not have the same experience with the technology to do a quality job.

This diversity allowed Gary to actually grow through the recession, and as the economy stabilized, he decided to split the company in two. Carefree Coverings continued to focus on the sales and installation side of things, while the repairs and cleanings fell under a new sister-company known as Pro Blind Repair.

Through his company’s evolution, Pelow has been blessed with an amazingly loyal staff that shares his passion for top-notch customer service. Offering benefits such as profit sharing, he has fostered a culture in which his employees want to buy in, and one that he feels will be key to future success.

“I have the perfect group of employees, who I feel at times are more passionate about this business than I am,” says Pelow.

16

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

Among the team is Sales and Design Consultant Diane Pirman, who has owned a successful window treatment company for 17 years in Chicago, and has also been recognized by Hunter Douglas for her understanding of the functionality of window fashions. Connie and her husband Richard Kozma had also previously owned not one, but two, successful window covering businesses prior to Carefree Coverings, and believe in educating clients so they understand the full spectrum of their options and can make decisions that most strongly fit their needs.

Certified installer and repairman Michael Austin came to the company by way of the restaurant industry, where he gained a passion for customer service, and proved to be a great fit with a dedicated approach to learning and excelling in his new role.

“It really is just amazing,” says Pelow. “I am surrounded by people with so much strength, who believe in this and care about it just the same way that I do. This whole thing was a dream—and I dream big—but this one is all about the team.”

Carefree Coverings is located at the southeast corner of Carefree Highway and Scottsdale Road in the Terravita Marketplace. More information on their products or services can be found by visiting their website at CareFreeCoverings.com, or by giving them a call at 480.595.2920.

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ing inspirational message. In addition, Bluth animated video games such as Dragon’s Lair, founded the Front Row Theatre in Scottsdale and hosts animation workshops.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU WANTED TO DO ANIMATION AS A CAREER?

I didn’t really know it as a child when I saw my first animated film, but I knew that there was something about the animation that just pulled me towards it. And I think that I was probably born to do animation because I knew at 4 years old that was what I was going to do. I knew back then that I was very attracted to animation, and there was a name that kept being said: that name was Walt Disney. I knew from then on that I wanted to meet him and go work for him.

CAN YOU BRIEFLY DESCRIBE YOUR SCOPE OF WORK IN ANIMATION?

Well my forte is in drawing, so as a director— I have directed a lot of animated films now—what I usually do is draw the way to go. The way I approach drawing is by starting with the story, the script is everything, so I start with that. I’m a storyboard artist, so I go through and I depict little pictures as clearly as I can about what you are going to see on the screen when it’s all done. I’ve always drawn, my whole life long, and that’s one of the things that I like most about animation.

If you are trying to tell a story that’s an hour-and-a-half long, you have to believe that the characters are real, and that they feel, and that they have something they are after. My role in that process has always been to direct and guide through drawing. I know that during Walt Disney’s reign in the animation world, he brought so many beautiful pictures to life that affected people’s lives and actually formed a lot of the way they thought. So there’s something about the medium that I think is just very inspirational.

A Look Into the Magical World of Don Bluth Productions ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI PHOTOGRAPHY MICHAEL ALBERTI

F

or animator extraordinaire Don Bluth, what became a flourishing career and lifelong passion all started with one film: Snow White. At a young age, Bluth was captivated by the vibrant colors, vivid details and compelling story behind the film, absorbing every last detail. Even as he grew older and attended high school and college, the animation bug never seemed to leave him.

Finally, Bluth decided to take a leap of faith and applied to Disney Studios. He worked at Disney for one year before heading back to school, but soon returned and went on to work for Disney for the next nine years. During that time, Bluth learned from the masters of animation, worked on classics like Sleeping Beauty, and found inspiration from the legend himself, Walt Disney. After leaving Disney, he went on to create his own animation studio, Don Bluth Productions. Over the years, the studio has produced best-loved classics such as The Secret of NIMH, The Land Before Time, An American Tail and Anastasia, all of which bring characters to life with exquisitely rendered detail, while also providing an underly-

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR WORKS?

I find inspiration in real life because it’s all around us. I think that’s the right way to do it, too, because if someone sitting in the audience is watching a character that represents someone from real life, they can identify. So this great parade of humanity that’s around us all the time; that can inspire you.

WHAT LED YOU TO BREAK AWAY FROM DISNEY AND CREATE DON BLUTH PRODUCTIONS?

I think what happened was that I saw the films themselves loosing quality after Walt’s passing. It started to look like we were telling the same story over and over again, and then the company started taking out all the special effects that made the animation so beautiful—because when animation is done right, it’s just beautiful. So at that same time, I was trying to learn how to be a really good animator, and maybe a director, but really didn’t know how. So a group of co-workers and I went to my garage after work one day and said lets make a picture, and we started making a short picture; that was how Banjo the Woodpile Cat was created. However, by then we knew enough about animation and it began to feel like having clothes that were too tight, so we needed to move on. Our first picture on our own was The Secret of NIMH. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE PROJECT SO FAR?

My favorite project, well there’s actually two. One of them was The Secret of NIMH because it was brand new and we were fresh, innocent and

really excited and enthusiastic. The next one was working with Steven Spielberg on An American Tail; that was really great and there are countless stories behind the making of that film.

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WHAT STILL MAKES YOU SO PASSIONATE ABOUT ANIMATION TODAY?

The whole experience has just been nothing but positive. What I think is the most wonderful thing is that as a child I had the dream of doing it, and as an adult I actually did it. I think of so many people around me that I know who dream dreams but never get to see them. If people could just have their dreams come true then maybe they would be different, and maybe the world would be a different place. It says it in the musical South Pacific, that if you don’t have a dream then you’ll never have a dream come true.

So that dream is really important to your happiness, and I think that is so important.

I also think it’s about the spirit of creativity. It’s about inspiring people with a piece of entertainment that can make them have a dream; that can make them actually go out and do what they have to do to be happy. I think that each of us was born with a talent, a song that you need to sing, and if you never get a chance to sing that song the world’s a little less luminous.

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YOU ALSO FOUNDED THE FRONT ROW THEATRE. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO DO THAT?

I’ve actually been doing theatre pretty much the whole time, —animation is theatre—and this particular theatre that I have here in Scottsdale is fairly new. Before moving to this space, I did theatre in my home for nine years, and we had 45 seats in there and always did full blown plays. So for nine years we did theatre in my living room, until I finally said lets go find a building, and two years ago the Front Row Theatre opened. Since then, it has really grown and has gotten really great—we now have 70 seats and those are starting to fill up every time we do a show, which we have five nights a week with musicals on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Why are we doing it? We are doing it to make people smile and hopefully to inspire them with great works.

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August 2015 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

19

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ome of the biggest mistakes I hear parents of high school students say they’ve made are that they waited too long to start the college search process and didn’t know that it was so involved, or that their child didn’t get accepted to certain schools because they applied too late or didn’t have a strong enough application.

These days, it’s getting harder to be accepted into college and more expensive to attend. An investment in a college education is the second largest investment one makes, behind purchasing a home. In order to make a wise decision, you need facts and information about the colleges you are considering and knowledge of what you should be looking for during a visit. If you haven’t had an older child apply to college, you can find yourself overwhelmed and dismayed trying to navigate through the process all by yourself.

Fortunately, you don’t have to do this alone. I recently learned of a college consultant who can guide you through the entire admissions process. She’ll coach and assist your child so they have every possible “edge” when submitting an application, along with the confidence that they did their absolute best, with every “t” crossed and “i” dotted.

At Sharkey College Consulting, Jessica Sharkey has been doing this with her clients and their families for the last eight years, receiving high praise from the numerous students she’s assisted. Her mission: To educate and inform students and their families of their college options.

QUALIFICATIONS

Sharkey is a Scottsdale native. She graduated from Arcadia High School and then the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Sci20

Process

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

ence in business administration and finance. Later, she attended the University of Texas to earn her master's degree in higher education administration. She has worked at the University of Texas as a new student orientation coordinator; the University of California as program director, Hillel; the University of Arizona as the regional director of admissions and alumni affairs in California; and at Arizona State University College of Business as a program coordinator and academic advisor. After she married her husband, Mike, and raised their twin daughters, Sharkey opened her own business. In the last eight years she’s coached 140 students, and the list keeps growing.

Sharkey is one of the best resources you can find to discuss your options because of her 20 years of experience in higher education and counseling. There seems to be so many choices initially, but through a questioning process these options begin to take shape and the list begins to narrow. The more selective the school, the more expectations are placed on students to take four years of a main subject in high school.

One of Sharkey's many strengths is that she always supports her clients. She’s honest without being negative. Sharkey will do whatever she can to help each of her students, offering one-onone guidance on how to create an authentic application and encouraging them to take a proactive approach so they can enjoy the journey with their desired destination in focus.

GETTING STARTED

A one-time fee starts the process, whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior in high school—Sharkey recommends the earlier you start the better. She leads her clients through an indepth process that takes the student from the discovery stage to the essay writing stage. By asking them a series of questions about their

goals and what “floats their boat,” Sharkey can assess what schools fit that criteria. She will then recommend a number of things that they should do in regards to what classes to take and the importance of grades, summer jobs, volunteering and giving back, with everything geared towards the college admissions application and essay.

NARROWING THE PROCESS

Sharkey College Consulting’s step-by-step procedure includes: • A Find My Spark Survey, which includes a personality assessment to determine the student’s preferred learning style.

• Developing a strategy and choosing an effective topic that the student cares about for their college essay.

• Learning the importance of having a part-time or summer job, the right academic criteria, a plan to take standardized tests, how to apply for scholarships or financial aid, participating in clubs, and volunteering with organizations they are passionate about. All of these help to build a strong application, while also maintaining a focus on their needs, goals and interests.

• Researching colleges to see if their expectations are met.

• W hat to look for during a college visit and how to evaluate a college campus beyond aesthetics by using a Campus Visit Worksheet to compartmentalize thoughts. Also, how to develop relationships with the College Admissions office and how to sit in classes and observe interaction among students.

• L earning how to write an effective essay and the importance of being truthful without using standard clichés.

• The importance of applying early.

“I want my students to know that when they click submit, they are submitting the most authentic application possible. If they are denied, it’s not a reflection on them but of the application pool they are competing with,” states Sharkey.

Sharkey spends 20 percent of her time visiting different colleges to stay abreast on what they are looking for in applicants, as well as talking with students on campus to ascertain the type of student who would successfully fit into that environment.

She works hard to help each student achieve his or her personal and academic goals. The competition is tough and colleges only accept a small number of applicants, so it’s extremely important that every student be given an advantage to ensure their success in being accepted by the college of their choice.

For more information and to read testimonies from previous students, please visit her website.

Sharkey College Consulting 480.326.8501

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21

Giving Back

Paradise Valley Mothers of Multiples SUPPORTING MOMS AND DADS WITH MULTIPLES THROUGH EDUCATION AND FRIENDSHIP ARTICLE MICHELLE GUERRERO | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

T

wins, triplets and quads, oh my! Having a new baby is always life changing, and at times overwhelming, but having two, three or four at a time can take the joy and happiness, as well as the stress, to a whole new level. Paradise Valley Mothers of Multiples (PVMOM) was founded to help parents of multiples thrive in this challenging, Shenen Dietrich's twin boys. yet rewarding, situation.

“The whole point of the club is to help parents. It can be such an overwhelming experience, from the pregnancy and birth to the time management and getting back to work,” says Shenen Dietrich, president of PVMOM. She’s also the mother of 5-year-old twin boys, as well as an internal medicine physician.

Often times when multiples are born, they end up in neonatal intensive care. There can be financial and emotional stresses with double the diapers, formula, clothes and equipment, and lots of questions about how to manage the care of multiple infants at one time. The group is there to offer support, ideas and help.

“In the first year, just to take a shower, put on makeup and get out of the house is huge for the moms,” says Dietrich.

CAMARADERIE FOR COMMISERATING

PVMOM offers a buddy program for new moms and dads who join the group. They are matched up with a more experienced parent so they have someone to call for advice or help.

“You don’t feel like all the other moms,” says Dietrich. “It feels good to talk to these other moms and hear that it is normal. They educate and support you emotionally. It was a great resource for me.”

PVMOM is a nonprofit organization that was founded more than 30 years ago, in partnership with Multiples of America, a national organization. Although they began in Paradise Valley, the group is now Scottsdale based and has members from across the Valley. They meet on the first Thursday evening of every month, at a conference room in Scottsdale Healthcare Shea. They also bring in speakers to talk about different topics like financial planning and speech therapy.

In addition to a monthly meeting, they host a huge consignment sale in the fall and spring, where parents can purchase gently used items such as maternity clothes, children’s toys and baby gear.

“Items are constantly being recycled,” says Dietrich. “Some of these families can’t afford new, brand name clothes and just want to be like everyone else.”

22

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

They get the opportunity to replenish their children’s drawers at a reasonable price during the consignment sale. The general public is welcome to come and shop too.

The program also hosts an annual picnic at McCormick Railroad Park for members and their families. They stand behind their members and want to support them in any way they can; they even have a philanthropic chair on their board to ensure that they do.

“We’ll do what we need to,” says Dietrich. “Even though they may live in Scottsdale, some of these families struggle with dayto-day expenses, compounded with having multiples, especially with the high cost of day care.”

They sponsor a family during the holidays, which is chosen from applications submitted by members. Members can also apply for support during the year if they are in need.

“I’ve never been to war, but I feel the camaraderie that we share is kind of like that. You develop bonds through adversity. And being the president, I’ve seen so much good,” says Dietrich. “I want to see this organization flourish.”

TWICE THE LOVE

A large number of the parents have twins under 5, but many parents remain members for years to come. Dietrich attends the national conference annually, and many of the national members have adult twins, yet still remain active.

“When my boys are 16, we’ll need to pay for two cars and two insurances, and eventually two college educations, all at the same time. This is going to cost us a fortune,” says Dietrich.

The annual membership dues are modest and the support is priceless.

Having multiples comes with a huge financial burden for parents, but it also comes with at least twice the number of cute baby toes, twice the love and twice the smiles. It’s great to know that families have a place to turn when they feel like they have twice, or three times, the stress.

Learn more about Paradise Valley Mothers of Multiples and their big consignment sale at PVMom.org.

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Claudia Partovi

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THE REAL ESTATE EXPERT SHARES HER INSIGHTS ON BUYING A HOME IN PHOENIX ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START IN REAL ESTATE?

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO FAMILIES

grew up in west Los Angeles and used to bike past beautiful homes all the time. Since then, I have always wanted to work with homes in some manner, but chose to go into civil engineering instead. Years later, here in Arizona, and once my children were in high school, I decided to revisit my passion and entered the field of real estate.

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WILL YOU TELL A LITTLE ABOUT BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY?

Berkshire Hathaway is a leading real estate firm built upon the same brand and success of its founder, Warren Buffet. It offers a diverse set of real estate services and works closely with title agencies and lenders to provide a seamless experience for its clients. One of its greatest assets is its powerful marketing arm, which helps promote its homes both locally and nationally. I am very proud to be a member of such a company. My personal area of expertise is focused upon the luxury home market for the exceptional buyer or seller. I have a keen eye for construction detail and am able to highlight the key and unique features of a home for my clients.

24

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

Every home exists within the context of a community. As a realtor, my role is to help families identify the community, and home, that fits their unique lifestyle. For example, families with children have certain needs. They may want to be in a certain school district, close to work and/or school and close to extracurricular activities.

They may also want to live in an area that is convenient for their family, such as close proximity to sports complexes for after school activities. Also, easy access to highways and shopping centers are factors that families with children look for, too. As an agent, I make sure all these factors are considered, and even if they are not mentioned or asked for, I will bring them to their attention.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER WHILE SEARCHING FOR A HOME IN PHOENIX?

We live in a dry and warm climate, therefore outdoor living is ideal here. It is important to note if a house has a great outdoor living space that is covered in the right direction to optimize

shade. It is also important to have the right desert landscaping that works well for all seasons, so the house looks beautiful and lush all year long without costing too much for maintenance. Moreover, we have various hillside communities, and for some buyers it is important to reflect on the pros and cons of choosing a flat lot versus a hillside home.

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WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO BUY A HOME IN PHOENIX?

Definitely starting in October would be the best time to buy a house in the Phoenix area since inventory would be high. Sellers know that there will be snowbirds coming to town wanting to buy a place. Also, people usually change homes before the winter holidays so our market gets saturated with them.

Most homes look their best by October since our weather becomes more ideal and all the landscaping gets refreshed after the summer heat.

WHAT MAKES PHOENIX AN IDEAL LOCATION TO BUY A HOME?

Phoenix is a fast growing, relatively young metropolitan area with much land. As a result, homes are generally on ample sized lots, which lends itself to great family living. Moreover, the weather during the school year is wonderful, so families can easily maintain an active lifestyle throughout the educational year. Also, the northern parts of Arizona offer relief during the summer months and provide a place where individuals can escape the heat for weekends. During the winter, Phoenix is only a few hours from the ski slopes. Taken as a whole, buying a home in Phoenix lends to a diverse lifestyle that isn’t typically considered. Moreover, the city itself is fairly new with wide streets and ample parking. We do not have traffic like other big cities comparable to our size. We also have some of the best restaurants and shops in town, all within close reach.

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Beauty With a Real Body

Style Wise

EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH FASHION ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI | PHOTOGRAPHY BETHANY GARVEY

O

wner of Alis Fashion Boutique in Scottsdale and bespoke designer Lana Gerimovich, along with photographer Bethany Garvey, sit on a delicate white leather sofa perfectly at ease, ready to discuss their new Beauty with a Real Body Campaign.

“I am a bespoke designer, which means I do measurements and guide by the parameters of the body to create style. Unlike customizing existing patterns as ‘custom made,’ ‘bespoke’ starts from creating a new pattern based on particular measurements of clients. After measurements are taken (sometimes up to 35 points of the body), I create the designs, source the quality fabrics mostly from Los Angeles and New York City, and then a prototype dress is made in inexpensive muslin fabrics first as a test. After that, I craft the dress with quality couture, designer fabrics, which is very expensive,” shares Gerimovich.

“But now, I have started to realize that women are more focused on the models instead of the clothing, and are getting more lost in trying to find their personal style.”

This observation was the driving force that led her to found the Beauty With A Real Body Campaign. Gerimovich, along with Garvey and model Lexi Placourakis formed a dream team of passionate Arizona women to head the campaign aimed at inspiring women to rediscover their personal sense of style and once again love and embrace their natural bodies.

“Lana had this really clear vision of the message she wanted to send because that is her everyday life: trying to break that idea that women have to fit into the clothing, but that she can make the clothing fit to them,” shares Garvey.

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

For Gerimovich too, it is all about the message.

“Message is basically equal to education…you give knowledge, you share, you educate and then you start to see results,” she says.

To further spread that message, the women set up a stunning photo shoot at the Arizona Grand Resort with Placourakis modeling a vibrant collection of summer-inspired wares to showcase how women can be both beautiful and confident with their bodies without feeling the need to hide anything.

“It was so fun working with Lexi. I love working with a team of people because I believe that when you bring a group of creative people together—women in this case—all working together, that it really elevates your work. It was a true collaboration,” recalls Garvey of the shoot.

Up next for the campaign, an elegant, luxury living-inspired photo shoot that focuses on the many roles women play in life, giving other women a glimpse into the beauty and confidence that can shine through each and every single one of them.

As Garvey puts it, “It really is all about accepting and celebrating those things that you really love, and letting the clothes speak for you.”

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Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Paradise Valley Properties neighborhood

original list

sold $$

price/sqft

Paradise Valley

$6,099,000

$6,600,000

$492

Paradise Valley

$5,995,000

$5,200,000

Paradise Valley

$4,795,000

Paradise Valley

dom

bdrm

bath

9

5

9

$704

75

5

5.5

$3,625,000

$403

604

7

8

$4,495,000

$4,000,000

$365

120

7

9

Paradise Valley

$4,295,000

$4,000,000

$491

0

6

6

Paradise Valley

$3,998,000

$3,600,000

$378

202

5

6.5

Biltmore

$3,975,000

$3,000,000

$394

282

4

6

Paradise Valley

$3,695,000

$3,400,000

$419

557

5

6.5

Arcadia

$3,400,000

$3,250,500

$424

56

5

6

Paradise Valley

$2,945,000

$2,850,000

$406

0

5

5.5

Paradise Valley

$2,800,000

$2,739,000

$639

6

4

5

Biltmore

$2,749,000

$2,587,500

$307

8

5

5.5

Paradise Valley

$2,690,000

$2,525,000

$388

62

5

5.5

Echo Canyon

$2,650,000

$2,650,000

$573

0

4

4.5

Paradise Valley

$2,495,000

$2,510,000

$340

4

6

7

Paradise Valley

$2,450,000

$2,100,000

$378

324

4

5

Paradise Valley

$2,400,000

$2,300,000

$553

31

3

3.5

Paradise Valley

$2,400,000

$2,200,000

$255

301

6

8

Paradise Valley

$2,390,000

$2,225,000

$495

14

5

5

Paradise Valley

$2,350,000

$2,350,000

$297

7

5

6

Paradise Valley

$2,265,000

$2,250,000

$447

22

3

4.5

Arcadia

$2,250,000

$2,250,000

$446

85

4

4.5

Arcadia

$2,199,000

$2,000,000

$329

29

5

4.5

Information compiled from Arizona Multiple Listing Service from dates of 6/1/2015 through 6/30/2015. *DOM =Days on Market

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August 2015 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

29

Lifestyle Calendar

August

AUGUST 1 & 2 EXPERIENCE THE ANDES PHOENIX

Experience the music and culture of the famous South American mountain range—which extends from north to south through Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina—at the Musical Instrument Museum. Enjoy dance and musical performances, try your hand at instrument-making crafts and indulge in regional wine samples. The Musical Instrument Museum is located at 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. For tickets and information, call 480.478.6000 or visit Mim.org.

AUGUST 4 - 11 12TH ANNUAL ART UNRAVELED PHOENIX

Join others from around the world in mixed media art workshops running from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The workshops focus on painting, drawing, jewelry making, book making, collages, journaling, metal clay and other topics. They are priced individually, so people can attend as many as they like. A Shopping Extravaganza is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on August 8. For more information, visit ArtUnraveled.com.

AUGUST 7 - 9 ARIZONA DANCE CLASSIC SCOTTSDALE

We-Ko-Pa Resort will host ballroom dancing and country-dance performances and competitions, as well as workshops and social dancing in their West Coast Wing at this not-tobe-missed event. Tickets are $15 and up. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday.

For additional scheduling information, please see their website, ArizonaDanceClassic.com.

AUGUST 8 ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS CELEBRATE RANDY JOHNSON

An absolute must attend game for anyone that wants to witness history and join in the celebration as the Arizona Diamond30

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

backs pay homage by retiring newly inducted “Hall Of Famer” Randy Johnson’s jersey #51. The first 50,000 fans will receive a Randy Johnson, # 51 retirement commemorative T-shirt. For more information or to purchase tickets go to DBacks.com or call 602-514-8400.

AUGUST 13 CAREER CONNECTORS SCOTTSDALE

Come and discover Career Connectors, a non-profit organization that connects professionals to high quality resources and hiring companies. Each event includes professional career speakers and presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four featured hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. The August 13 event will be held at Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd. For more information, call 480.442.5806 or visit CareerConnectors.org.

AUGUST 13 - 31 SOUTH PACIFIC SCOTTSDALE

Don Bluth Front Row Theatre proudly presents South Pacific. The musical is centered on Nellie, a nurse on a Pacific Island during WWII who falls in love with de Becque, a local planter. However, when she learns that he is a widower with two half-caste children, she cannot accept the situation. The show, which runs through September 19, begins at 7 p.m. For information and tickets, visit DonBluthFrontRowTheatre.com.

AUGUST 15 & 16 MUSICAL ICON: ELVIS PHOENIX

In honor of Elvis Week, join the Musical Instrument Museum for a celebration of the life of the “King of Rock and Roll.” Come and hear gallery talks near the Elvis Presley display, participate in hands-on activities, view the classic film “Jailhouse Rock” on the big screen, and participate in many more activities. The Musical Instrument Museum is located at 4725

E. Mayo Blvd. For tickets and information, call 480.478.6000 or visit Mim.org.

AUGUST 19 SOCIAL MEDIA SAFETY SEMINAR SCOTTSDALE

Dr. Lisa Strohman, a clinical psychologist and founder of the Technology Wellness Center, will host a free seminar to discuss the dos, don’ts and dangers of posting to social media sites. “What should I post?

The Dos, Don’ts & Dangers” addresses what appropriate versus inappropriate content is and explains the dangers of posting certain content online. The seminar is at LifeScape Medical Associates, 8757 E. Bell Rd. To register call 480.220.4702 or email DrLisa@technologywellnesscenter.com.

AUGUST 21 SENSATIONAL SKIN

R.S.V.P to Sensational Skin in Scottsdale for a truly transforming event. The premier CoolSculpting, Ultherapy and Cosmetic Laser Clinic will provide live demos and free consultations as guests sip on wine and nosh on hors d’oevres. As an added bonus, they will also be offering special event pricing, discounts and a chance to win a FREE CoolSculpting treatment. Bring a friend for even more savings. For more information call 480-596-9111 or stop by at 11111 N. Scottsdale Rd., #115 (See ad on outside back cover).

AUGUST 22 VYTAL AFFAIR PHOENIX

The Herberger Theater Center is this year’s stage for Valley Youth Theatre’s annual fundraising event, VYTal Affair. The evening, which includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, silent and live auctions, and a musical performance by the stars of VYT, will also honor this year’s VYTALITY Award recipients, Gwen and Doug Parker and Gammage and Burnham PLC. Ticket prices are $250 or $125, depending on seating for the performance. For tickets, call 602.253.8188 or visit VYT.com.

B o n n e r

D a v i d

Galleries Traditional x Contemporary

Joseph Lorusso “Dreamer” / oil on canvas / 14" x 14"

7040 E. Main Street x Scottsdale, AZ 85251 x www.bonnerdavid.com x art@bonnerdavid.com x 4 8 0 . 9 4 1 . 8 5 0 0

SPECIALIZING IN:

RENOVATIONS | INTERIOR & EXTERIOR BATHROOMS | PAINTING & MUCH MORE!

CONTACT US:

(480) 332-2000 LICENSED # B148039 - BONDED - INSURED

August 2015 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

31

business

directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY

Bonner David Art Galleries (480) 941-8500 bonnerdavid.com Images By Michael (480) 575-1175 Imagesbymichael.com Nelson Art Gallery (480) 636-1233 nelsonartfashion.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Beischel Family Dental (480) 948-1450 bfdentalaz.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES London Gold Jeweler (480) 367-1717 londongold.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Duffy Homes, Inc. (480) 332-2000

Genesis Luxury Group (602) 769-4355 genesislg.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Arizona Iron Patio Furniture (602) 254-2088 arizonaironfurniture.com

California Pools & Landscape (480) 498-2139 Touchstone Gallery (480) 874-8385 touchstonegalleries.com

HOME SERVICES

Arizona Garage & Closet Design (480) 483-3030 arizonagaragedesign.com/LifeStyle Carefree Coverings (480) 595-2920 carefreecoverings.com Cesar Mazier Landscaping (602) 265-0920 cmazier.com Closet Masters (480) 991-4399 closetmasters.net Evergreen Floor Care (480) 540-5840 evergreenfloorcare.com Let There Be Light (480) 575-3204 lettherebelightllc.com

Maids to Order Of Maricopa County,AZ (480) 607-3330 maidstoorder.com Steel Shield Security Doors (602) 357-4812 steelshieldsecurity.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Adam & Eve Med Spa Sonder Corp (602) 283-2061 adamandevemedicalaesthetics.com Honor Health honorhealth.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE Claudia Partovi Fine Properties LLC (602) 845-9115 claudiapartovi.com

Jill Brenenstuhl PC (602) 524-1677 pvluxuryrealestate.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Tom’s Thumb (480) 513-8186 tomsthumbfreshmarket.com

SALONS & SPAS

Sensational Skin (480) 596-9111 sensationalskin.com

Park Avenue Blow Dry & Beauty Bar (480) 321-7780 parkavenueblowdry.com

OTHER

SPECIALTY SHOPS

Three Horizons Productions (512) 633-6033

The Green Goddess (602) 971-8110 greengoddess.com

American Auction Co. (800) 801-1543 americanauctionco.com

In The Pink (602) 957-7270 inthepinkboutique.com

Exclusive Gifts Accessories Chic Jewelry Home Decor Candles Rugs & Pillows

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2015

August 2015 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

Birds on a Wire WORDS KENDRA MATHEWSON

O

ne of my dear friends is a painter who sees the world through her amazing artist eyes.

When she was the newbie in our neighborhood, her heart was sensitive to how to integrate her family into the community. Driving one day, she noticed how birds perched on a telephone wire seemed to choose when to gather, and who to pause with. As she watched the birds sit, and then come and go, those birds spoke to her of how we create community, who we keep counsel with, and even the dynamic nature of the process.

She had moved in down the street, and it was my love of her work that initially drew us together. We shared a moment of connection on my front porch steps, and lingered like the birds chatting on the telephone wire, before we flew off back to our hectic lives. Over the years, through working on house projects, painting together, building a club, learning new skills together, cooking meals together, playing cards as couples, we’d pause from the “flights” our lives demanded (me flying around in my minivan and she in her Mini Cooper) to sit like those birds on a wire and talk over tea. This is how we became friends.

That is community. That is how community begins and how it grows. These one-on-one connections expand and extend and

Did you know?

become a beautiful web of interconnectedness. Through words, stories, shared experiences and common interests, we find inspiration to create our communities.

My friend’s keen observations became the main theme of a series that has become her signature.

The beauty of her Birds on a Wire series, and her reflections on community, have inspired me to embrace and celebrate the important place it has in our lives. We live in such an individualistic society that our personal empowerment sometimes overshadows the significance of our need for each other. Like the ingredients of an exceptional recipe, or the materials used to construct a quality home, a community is only as good as the people who comprise it. Because the people are who ignite an idea, imagine a future, share an event, take the bull by the horns, see a need and fill it, spread the word about a new business, open their home to new families, bring a meal when there’s an illness, invest in a neighbor or believe in a student, give witness to struggles and celebrate successes.

Our magazine is your “wire.” Let us pause to read the stories that have been inspired by our community, to drink in the beautiful photographs that paint the story of us. Email your editor and publisher, or better yet reach out and enjoy a cup of coffee together. Let us stop here in the pages of our publication each month and celebrate like birds on a wire, before we fly off back to our busy lives. You inspire us.

N E L S O N A RT G A L L E RY

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16622 North 91st Street, Suite 104 - Scottsdale, Arizona 85260

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