ANDRE
O AN
WIlliams Northeast Realty, Luxury Division Voted #1 Scottsdale Real Estate Team 2018, 2019
Andrew Bloom is the CEO and co-Founder of BVO LUXURY GROUP at Keller Williams NortheastRealty.CollectivelyKellerWilliamsLuxuryhassoldover$98billionin 2021andYeartodateKellerWilliamsLuxuryhasrepresentedover48,000buyer’s and seller’s over $1M. KW continues to expand globally and remains the number estate company in the world as ranked by Realtrends. BVO Luxury now in its 3rd generation, 2019, and 2020, and 2021. The team has grown significantly to make year ever headquartered right here in Scottsdale.
5 Reasons the Housing Market is Reversing
The market flipped! Nobody expected the bottom to fall out, but like a good upside-down cake, there is opportunity for everyone. will continue to see the shift in the market throughout 2023 with home sales about 20% below the 6.1 million home sales of 2021 and 4.8 million home sales in 2022.
For buyer’s the pro’s are long and the con’s are short.
Pro’s:
In 2023, the housing market experienced an unexpected phenomenon — rising interest rates that basically froze housing values. The rise in mortgage rates, surprisingly, hasn’t instigated a significant decrease in home prices. This perplexing trend can be attributed to a complex interplay of economic, demographic, and market determinants. Today, a significant proportion of homeowners — 92% of those with mortgages — enjoy rates below 6%, with a lucky 62% relishing rates under 4%. As mortgage rates climb, these homeowners are opting to hold onto their properties, rather than sell and risk locking in a higher mortgage rate.Consequently, this shift in homeowner behavior has reduced the volume of home sales. This is corroborated by a recent study, revealing that approximately 27% of homeowners would be motivated to sell if rates descend to 5% or lower. Furthermore, nearly half of the homeowners surveyed would consider listing their properties if rates were to plunge to 4%. Despite these evolving dynamics, home prices have seen only a nominal drop. The manager of the S&P Case Shiller Index predicted a peak-to-trough decline of around 5%, leaving 2% yet to be recuperated.
•More inventory
•Price negotiations
•No need to waive inspections
•No need to waive appraisals
For Seller’s the pro’s and con’s are flipped but let’s focus on the pro’s.
•Move up to a larger home with recent equity gains
•Downsize to a smaller home with cash
The Arizona housing market has experienced fluctuations in 2023, and many are eager to know what the future holds for this dynamic real estate landscape. Various data sources, such as Zillow and housing market forecasts, provide insights into the current state and potential developments. Let’s explore the forecast for the Arizona housing market in the coming months. According to Zillow, the average home value in Arizona stands at a decrease of 6.5% over the past year. This information is crucial for potential homebuyers and sellers, as it provides a snapshot of the current market conditions. Additionally, it’s noteworthy that homes in Arizona go to pending status within a median of 21 days, indicating a relatively active market. The 6.5% decline in home values over the past year suggests a shift in the market dynamics. The market is showing some resilience, with 18.9% of sales happening over the list price and 56.2% occurring under the list price. These figures indicate the importance of strategic pricing and negotiation in the current market environment.
•No bidding wars
•Move in at close of escrow
•Sell NOW and capitalize on equity gains while sitting on the sidelines. You never lose money taking chips off the table.
Help Buyers Emotionally Connect
Several economists believe the housing market will remain relatively flat in 2024, but not crash. As the mortgage rates are stabilizing now, more buyers feel confident to enter the housing market. Let’s look at why most experts believe that the housing market in Arizona is not going to crash. 5 Reasons Why the Housing Market is Unlikely to Crash
•Time to think
•Seller paid closing costs
•Seller repairs
Con’s:
1. Low Months of Supply: Only 2.6 months’ supply is available. This scarcity of inventory explains why many buyers need to bid over the listing price for the most desirable properties. According to the law of supply-demand, it is predicted that home prices will remain stable for now.
2. Low Newly Constructed Housing Supply: The supply of newly constructed houses has yet to return to pre-2007 levels. Also, there’s no way for homebuyers to buy land, get regulatory approval, and increase the supply quickly.
3. New Buyers Entering the Market: There’s a strong demand for homes across various demographics. Millennials are in their prime buying years. As a result, there’s still a limited amount of inventory available.
•Higher interest rates that are still reflective of 30 year averages
Conclusion:
Staging is about showcasing an engaging, move-in ready home that creates an emotional connection with the buyer. Updating décor with on-trend, inviting style—particularly in living rooms, primary bedrooms, kitchens, and dining rooms—can make memorable impression.
4. Strict Lending Standards: There were several cases of liar loans in 2007 where anyone could get a mortgage without a credit check. Today, mortgage lenders in Arizona place high stan dards on borrowers, and most home buyers are required to have an excellent credit score.
5. Fewer Foreclosures: A majority of homeowners own significant equity in their homes. The personal balance sheets of homeowners are much stronger today than they were 15 years ago. As a result, the threat of rising foreclosures in Arizona is low.
Buyer’s can now marry the house they love and date the rate.
Conclusion: With stable home prices and reprieve of interest rates 2024 is a good time to make a move! Call us today for a private and confidential conversation.
If you are thinking of selling your home, now more than ever your home must be in TOP condition. At BVO Luxury we offer FREE home improvement and staging consultations.
“Anyone who dreams of an uncommon life eventually discovers there is no choice but to seek an uncommon approach to living it.” - Gary Keller, The ONE Thing CALL US NOW! (480) 999-1921 www.BVOLuxury.com
Wishing you an Inspiring New Year
inspiring living
Wishing you an Inspiring New Year inspiring living
Did Someone Call Me?
“MOM!”
That’s probably the word I hear most used daily. While it’s often followed by “What’s for dinner?” “Can you drive me to (insert a multitude of locales here)?” or “Have you seen (insert a multitude of objects here)?” it’s also a word I cherish. I love being a mom (well, except for the 2 a.m., “MOM! I don’t feel well …” whispered in my ear, of course).
One of the things I love most about being a mom is that I get to help influence my children’s lives and guide them as they grow up.
Of course, sometimes they teach me more than I teach them. A perfect case in point is our dog, Icy. (I’ll get to the name later!) It was not long after our first family pup passed that the kids—then ages 4 and 6—started asking for another. I didn’t think I was ready. My kids and husband were.
Off to the shelters we went, me humoring them. But of course, they all found one they fell in love with. I was outnumbered.
And so Icy came home with us, quickly taking her place in the family. Over the years, she has been there for all of us and taught us all so much. The kids learned compassion and how to take care of a living being, and had a confidant when they wanted to share their emotions with someone beyond a parent.
Of course, Icy is now my beloved fur child, and I can’t imagine life without her. I am thankful for her every day. She’s the sweetest, most loving dog and a huge part of our family.
Which brings me to this issue—welcome to our Kids & Pets Issue, where we focus on kid- and pet-themed stories. Read about a unique pet groomer, a Grammynominated singer who is giving free local concerts for kids this summer, youth to watch, and more.
Enjoy … and if you’re interrupted by someone yelling, “MOM" or "DAD," just smile and be thankful for the wonderful beings in your life.
Yours,
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @SCOTTSDALECITYLIFESTYLE
P.S. I promised the story! On the day we adopted our dog, my son looked at her and said she looked like an icicle because she was white and tan, so we should call her Icy. My daughter agreed. Since they were actually agreeing on something (you get me, parents, right?!), Icy she became!
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Alicia Haygood | alicia.haygood@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Faith Morello | faith.m@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Bailin Batz, Susan Lanier-Graham, Gretchen Pahia, Rebecca L. Rhoades, Georgann Yara
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Danielle Muccillo
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Proverbs 3:5-6
Best in Show
From
From
Grammy-Nominated Artist David Sharpe Makes Music Fun With Free Concerts
After
Wyer
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Terri Worthington and Jean Cody at Desert Foundation Auxiliary’s 58th Annual New Member Cocktail Party. 2: Meredith Lane, Gretchen Schubert, Heather Kinkel, Lindsey Madison, and Kyle Christensen at Desert Foundation Auxiliary’s Mother Daughter Tea. 3: Jenna and Bobby Ghisolfo at Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona’s gala An Evening of Goodwill. 4: Desert Foundation Auxiliary’s 2024 debutantes. 5: Carey and John Musil at Desert Foundation Auxiliary’s 58th Annual New Member Cocktail Party. 6: There was an upcycled fashion show at Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona’s gala. 7: Rachelle Durham, Tim O’Neal, Dolan Laveen, the Suns Gorilla, Jim Hayden, and Carl Schager at An Evening of Goodwill.
SCOTT FOUST STUDIOS
SCOTT FOUST STUDIOS
SCOTT FOUST STUDIOS
SCOTT FOUST STUDIOS
8: Molly Kaufman, Emily Snell, Ashley Richardson, Stacy Holzhauer, and Dr. Fayez K. Ghishan at the PANDA Fashion Show and Luncheon. 9: Rhett Doherty, who walked in the fashion show on behalf of his brother Hollis Doherty, and auctioneer Letitia Frye. 10: Emcees of the 2024 PANDA “Children Helping Children” Fashion Show and Luncheon, Mark McClune and April Warneke.
Candelaria Design Associates Celebrates 25 Years in Business
This month, award-winning, Scottsdalebased architecture firm Candelaria Design Associates celebrates its 25th anniversary. Founded in 1999 by architect Mark Candelaria, today he and his partners Tim Mathewson and Evelyn Jung lead the firm of about 20 architects and designers in custom residential and boutique design. While the majority of their projects are located across Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, their custom designs have also been built across the country and even worldwide. CandelariaDesign.com
Men's Retailer True Classic Opens at Scottsdale Fashion Square
Premium menswear retailer True Classic recently opened in Scottsdale Fashion Square's newly renovated south wing. The California-based brand makes everyday essentials, like perfect-fitting T-shirts and ultra-comfortable denim, out of quality materials that last. It is known for its buttery-soft, premium quality fabrics that fit right and feel good. Fashions are displayed throughout the store on large digital screens that showcase how an item is styled and worn, along with how it compares to what’s currently in the marketplace. FashionSquare.com
Uchi Launches Elevated To-Go Sushi Boxes
Uchi recently launched highly curated and to-go sushi boxes that bring the dining experience home. There are three tiers: the Ichi, a selection of Uchi classics, including nigiri, maki, and crudo; Ni, which includes six varieties of fish with sides; and San, an elevated experience with two caviar sets. Sushi boxes are available to order via Uchi’s website for pickup, as well as via UberEats for at-home delivery. UchiRestaurants.com
Photography by Hai Hospitality
letter from the PUBLISHER
I was never the little girl who grew up thinking about life as a mom. I never saw myself as a mom, really. I was always career-focused, thinking I was to be the station manager for a local news channel in Atlanta, where I grew up. As I’ve learned, and continue to learn, never say never as it will surely happen to you. Hence how I ended up not being a station manager at a news channel and now am called “Mommy” more than any other name.
Being a mom is the same as being a small business owner. You make all the rules, you set guidelines, and you plan out the schedule. You answer emails, text messages, and phone calls constantly. And you have to fix every single problem, no matter how big or small it may be. Even though I have an amazing husband and father to our kids, it’s still “Mommy!” at the end of the day. It’s exhausting!
When people ask me, “What’s it like having a child?” I always have the same response, “Get a pet first!” You have to sleep train them both, potty train them, plan play dates, buy new toys, buy food, and pay doctor/vet bills. I’m not kidding when I say owning a pet is like having another child! While I may not currently have a dog or cat to care for, our pet lizard still needs to have sitters when we travel. And guess what, I’m in charge of that, too.
To all you parents out there, whether it’s to a human or a pet, I see you and all the dedication you put toward them and making sure they are loved unconditionally and spoiled beyond belief. Because at the end of the night, we all know that we truly can’t imagine life without them. Even though my kids are currently yelling my name for another snack.
“I’m coming!!!!”
Hug your babies today, tomorrow, and each chance you get. Life is too short to not appreciate the moments that matter most.
From a loving mother,
Alicia Haygood Owner/Publisher
BEST IN SHOW
From the Canine Couture Fashion Show to Unique Grooming, and a Pet Taxi to Pet Parties, Ivan Lugo Pampers Pooches
“I just love dogs. They are 100% pure unconditional love,” says Ivan Lugo.
A smile spreads across Lugo’s face as he looks down at his pet chihuahua, Hermes, cradled in his arms.
“I mean, look at this creature,” he says. “He’s so calm, so beautiful. He’s an angel.”
Lugo doesn’t hold back when it comes to talking about his favorite subject—man’s best friend. As the owner of Scottsdale’s Lugari Pet Salon, Lugo has been grooming the Valley’s most pampered pooches for several years, transforming mutts and purebreds alike into showstopping stunners worthy of the title “top dog.”
FINDING HIS CALLING
Born and raised in Mexico City, Lugo wanted to be an actor. Charming and outgoing, he commands a room. But like his parents—his mother is a veterinarian, his father a biologist— he instead focused on animals and went to school to become a professional dog groomer.
After moving to Scottsdale in 1999, Lugo worked at various grooming salons and pet
resorts in the Valley while making the rounds in the dog show circuit. In 2011, his pup Rocco was named the No. 1 male chihuahua in the country by The Chihuahua Club of America. Lugo was even invited to show at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City.
In 2017, he opened Lugari Pet Salon.
“I wanted to do something different,” Lugo explains. “I wanted a place where people feel comfortable and where pets feel comfortable.”
The lobby recalls a living room, with white vintage furnishings, comfy seating areas, and inviting displays. A glass wall connects the space to the grooming area, giving clients visual access to the salon’s operations. And there are no cages here. Dogs play together freely in a large back room.
“It’s all very relaxed and calm,” Lugo explains. “I always tell people, ‘Your pet is going to have a great experience.’ You can see how we bathe them, how we brush them. I’m not hiding anything from the clients. We like to keep everybody happy here—dogs and humans.”
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY BY REBECCA L. RHOADES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Paradise Valley resident Crystal Castrogiovanni, owner of dog treat brand Bentley’s Biscuits, has been bringing her two Cavalier King Charles spaniels to Lugo for the past decade.
“There’s absolutely no one else I would trust with my dogs,” she says. “Ivan is exceptional at grooming. He’s at a completely different level. He’s just kind, and he treats my dogs like they’re his own. He has a connection with them, and they just love him.”
Kevin Damato agrees. The Scottsdale resident first brought his chihuahua-dachshund mix Milo to Lugari shortly after it opened its doors.
“Ivan is the only one who did what I wanted. Most of the time, groomers cut too short, and it doesn’t look like the same dog anymore,” Damato explains. “Plus, Milo enjoys it here.”
NOT YOUR TYPICAL DESTINATION
In addition to offering breed-standard grooming, the salon specializes in unique cuts and colors. Japanese-style cuts transform pups into adorable, fluffy versions of stuffed animals, while tails and ears are dyed brilliant shades of pink, red, and orange. A cat becomes a dinosaur with spiky triangles cut into the fur on its back, while a French bulldog receives a cheetah-print dye job.
“The Asian look is very popular right now,” Lugo explains. “We did a cat with a rainbow color. And a lot of our clients love to get their pet’s ears dyed pink or blue.”
Since he first opened the salon, Lugo has also groomed dogs from the Tempe-based Lost Our Home Pet Rescue.
“We do makeovers on the puppies, and that way they are more attractive to people and they get rescued,” he explains.
A PET TAXI, FIRST-AID, AND A FASHION SHOW
Recently, he started the Lugari Pet Taxi. It transports clients’ pets to the salon, vet, doggy day care, and even the park. And, first-aid and CPR classes for both dogs and humans are offered throughout the year at the salon.
Additionally, Lugo and his team will help clients organize unforgettable parties for their pets’ birthdays.
But Lugo’s most popular event is Canine Couture, the annual doggie-owner fashion show at the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, the most-attended polo event in the United States. Lugo developed the idea in 2014 after the pet resort he was working for at the time was approached by the polo event.
“They wanted to have something else—not just the polo match, not just the horses,” Lugo recalls.
“When we started the fashion show 10 years ago, people just wore simple dresses,” he adds. “Now, they dress up their dogs, and they dress up themselves. It’s a lot of fun.”
Previous winners have included a woman who dressed her dog like a phoenix, complete with fiery wings and a red, orange, and yellow tail. Another took top honors with a Marie Antionette-themed outfit, with both the owner and her shepherd mix pup decked out in matching silver gowns. One pooch came as Evel Knievel with a helmet and cape, while another was Bob Ross—the dog wore the wig and the human was a paint palette.
A panel of celebrity judges evaluate the dogs on their appearance and the creativity of their costumes. Trophies, grooming sessions, and cash prizes are awarded.
“We are the entertainment in the middle of the main polo match,” Lugo says. “Everybody’s having fun. They’re drinking and eating. But when the dogs go into the field, everybody stops doing whatever they’re doing and watches the dogs.”
This year’s Canine Couture show takes place on Oct. 26. To register, visit ThePoloParty.com .
With so much going on, Lugo still manages to maintain deep, personal connections with his clients and their pups.
“I love working with dogs,” he says. “I’m very passionate about it. And I think that’s the most important thing.”
LugariPet.net
HOPE IS HERE
TO
END CANCER
Three to Watch
FROM TALENT TO COMPASSION, THESE THREE YOUTHS ARE GOING PLACES
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Sami Sonder, 18 Ballerina
YOU BEGAN DANCING AT AGE 2 … WHEN DID YOU BEGIN COMPETING?
I began competing when I was 8 years old.
YOU DANCE BECAUSE …
There is no better feeling than performing in front of an audience to make them feel something. Expressing myself through movement is extremely fulfilling to me.
WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN TRAINING?
I have trained at Master Ballet Academy in Scottsdale, as well as Danceology Performing Arts Campus in San Diego.
WHERE HAVE YOU PERFORMED IN THE VALLEY?
I have performed in numerous shows at the beautiful Orpheum Theatre, including recurring performances of The Nutcracker with the Phoenix Ballet.
SOME OF YOUR AWARD HIGHLIGHTS ARE …
I have been awarded Top 20 Dancer at both The Dance Awards and Radix Nationals. Last summer, I was awarded national collegiate scholarships to three top Bachelor of Fine Arts programs at the New York City Dance Alliance (NYCDA) College Scholarship Audition. As a scholarship recipient, I performed at The Joyce Theater in New York for NYCDA’s Destiny Rising Gala this spring.
YOU JUST GRADUATED FROM ASU PREPARATORY ACADEMY. NEXT, WE’LL FIND YOU …
Attending New York University Tisch School of the Arts as a dance major.
PROFESSIONAL DREAM?
I hope to one day become a Radio City Rockette or perform in a professional contemporary company around the world.
Anaik Sachdev, 12 Launched the Loving Library
YOU WERE JUST 8 WHEN YOU LAUNCHED THE LOVING LIBRARY. WHAT SPARKED THE IDEA?
My grandma had COVID, and she was in the hospital sick. I FaceTimed her every day, and I saw that she was in a dark, lonely room with nothing to do. During that time, my family and I read books to pass our time. That’s when I thought my grandma and other isolated patients could read books to pass time, like I did. I called the mayor of Phoenix, Mayor Kate Gallego, and asked her which hospital needed the most help. She said Valleywise Health, the county hospital, and that’s when the first chapter of Loving Library began.
WHAT IS THE LOVING LIBRARY?
Loving Library is a youth-founded nonprofit that donates books to kids in need to help with mental health. We help kids escape loneliness, depression, and isolation. It’s about kids helping other kids!
HOW MANY BOOKS HAVE BEEN DONATED SO FAR?
Fifteen thousand to hospitalized patients, the unhoused, abused children, and many more.
HOW MANY STATES HAVE CHAPTERS NOW?
Three so far—Arizona, Texas, and California.
YOU WERE ON TV TO TALK ABOUT THIS!
I loved the experience of being on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and other local TV stations! At first, I was nervous, but Ellen was so nice and funny. She made it easy and made me forget about the cameras and lights. It is one of my favorite experiences in my life! It also helped me with building my public speaking skills.
DO YOU HAVE A CAREER IN MIND YET?
I want to be an NBA player … [but] if I can’t, I would like to be a sports statistician because I love numbers and math.
CONTINUED >
“We help kids escape loneliness, depression, and isolation. It’s about kids helping other kids!”
Sophia
Lin, 16 Artist, Activist,
and More
YOU ARE AN INCREDIBLE ARTIST. WHAT TYPE OF ART DO YOU DO?
Visual art (drawing, acrylic painting) and performing art (dance).
DO YOU HAVE FORMAL TRAINING?
Yes. I am fortunate to have received formal training for both painting and dance since I was 6.
YOU HAVE ARTWORK HANGING AT THE ARIZONA CAPITOL.
I am honored and humbled to be the first-place winner of the Congressional Art Competition at Arizona 1st District in 2024; my acrylic painting Blossom of Becoming is displayed in the Cannon Tunnel at the U.S. Capitol. Over the past three years, three of my other paintings highlighting youth resilience have been displayed at the congressman’s office and at the Arizona Capitol.
BESIDES ART, WHAT ELSE ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT?
Speech and debate, writing, community service, public service, and civic engagement.
“As the child of first-generation immigrants who achieved their American Dream through hard-earned higher education, I am passionate about advocating for education equality through my art.”
CAUSE THAT MEANS THE MOST TO YOU?
As the child of first-generation immigrants who achieved their American Dream through hard-earned higher education, I am passionate about advocating for education equality through my art. Serving Arizona Governor’s Youth Commission (GYC) and State Board of Education Student Advisory Panel, I collaborate with youth change-makers across the state to bridge education resource gaps for students in need.
YOUR DREAM CAREER?
I aspire to become an intellectual property lawyer who can contribute to public service by ensuring equal access, providing legal aid, influencing policy, supporting nonprofits, and balancing IP rights with public interest. With the increasing use of digital platforms in education, I hope to help cultivate a legal environment that fosters creativity and innovation while protecting public access to important technological advancements.
GRAMMY-NOMINATED ARTIST DAVID SHARPE MAKES MUSIC FUN WITH FREE CONCERTS
The Power of PapaHugs
ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO
When David Sharpe began writing and performing children’s songs to keep his grandchildren entertained, the retired podiatrist with a passion for music never imagined it would turn into a second career, let alone lead to a Grammy Award nomination.
In 2012, with his The PapaHugs Band, Sharpe received a Best Children’s Album of the Year nod for their third compilation, Are We There Yet? As an independent producer without a huge label to back them, the odds were even more stacked against capturing one of the five nominations in the category that drew 300 entries.
Then he did an online search when the nominations were announced.
“I saw my name. It was pretty shocking,” Sharpe recalls. “We were on the red carpet, the whole bit. It was one of the highlights of my life.”
Thanks to a partnership with public libraries across the state, Sharpe now shares his talents by bringing his Children’s Music Concert series to library venues throughout the year. In August, his Summer Music Tour comes to Scottsdale libraries, bringing interactive experiences complete with original upbeat songs, costumed characters, and gadgets that let kids participate in the fun. Every child is welcomed with a smile sticker they can affix to their shirt and receives a kazoo so they leave knowing how to play an instrument.
CONTINUED >
The free concerts run 45 to 60 minutes, and Sharpe and his wife, Laura, have perfected the art of keeping their young audiences focused. Laura dons costumes and goes into the audience, passing out items that coincide with the songs such as red clown noses, little earth globes, and bubble wrap, to name a few.
The theme of the tour is Sharpe’s new original tune, “Let’s Go Play in the Desert.” It’s performed as a singalong, with kids joining him onstage to help belt it out.
Sharpe grew up in Cleveland, where he met Laura, his high school sweetheart and now wife of 55 years. They moved to Northern California, where they resided for more than 40 years. He played guitar in high school and college, and sang to his two daughters when they were young. But it wasn’t until after his grandchildren came along that Sharpe began writing his own tunes.
His nephew, a professional musician who is the lead drummer for the Jerry Garcia Band, suggested that Sharpe record his original songs. This led to the creation of The PapaHugs Band, consisting of five professional musicians. Sharpe and the band went on to record three successful children’s albums.
Sharpe has become known as “PapaHugs” by his fans as a result of one of his first original songs, “There is Nothing Better Than a PapaHug.”
Sharpe’s target audience provides inspiration and fodder. The popular “I Want to Be a Robot” arose from his granddaughter’s dream of being a robot, and his grandson’s passion for bubbles sparked “I Like Bubbles.”
“With children, the things they say and do, you pick up great ideas,” Sharpe says. “They may have crazy ideas, but they turn into great songs.”
Ten years ago, Sharpe retired from his 40-year career as a foot and ankle surgeon at the same time Laura retired from her registered nursing career. They moved to Arizona six years ago to be closer to their children and grandchildren. And now, the band has since dispersed, allowing for Sharpe to play acoustic performances.
Retirement gave the couple the opportunity to focus more on children’s music and traveling, performing for children coast to coast. However, he never expected it to become such a successful second career with this kind of traction or longevity.
And he’s loving every minute.
“Performing for children gives a great energy and it makes you feel great as a performer when I feel that energy coming from them,” Sharpe says. “What’s rewarding is being able to give children the opportunity to be part of live music and hopefully it will be memorable for them.”
Catch David Sharpe’s Summer Music Tour 2024 at Scottsdale libraries at 10:30 a.m., Aug. 7: Appaloosa Branch; 10:30 a.m., Aug. 10: Civic Center Branch; 10:30 a.m., Aug. 15: Mustang Branch; 10:30 a.m., Aug. 20: Arabian Branch.
Pilates will take you on an exhilarating journey of strength, flexibility, and mind-body connection. Get ready to sculpt your core, improve posture, and deepen your breathing. Whether you’re a rookie or a Pilates pro, let the excitement guide you towards a body transformation you’ve always dreamed of!
Come Try Pilates today! Scan the QR code for your Free
A PLAY (AND TRAINING) PALACE FOR POOCHES
ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
AVOID THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER AT THE INDOOR ZOOM ROOM
When Zoom Room opened its doors last summer, its founder envisioned a space with a little something for every shape, size, and breed of dog.
“Wholly indoor and air-conditioned, the Zoom Room is certainly a training center, but I like to call it a doggy rec center because we have so much else to offer,” says Faeryn Terra, CPDTKSA, manager of Zoom Room Scottsdale.
The 3,000-square-foot space features obedience training, as well as agility training, playgroups, private rentals, and even puppy preschool.
“Zoom Room sets itself apart here by avoiding strict guidelines when it comes to obedience training, meaning folks need not sign up for a rigid six- or eight-week program,” Terra says.
Instead, there is an open structure that allows participants to move at their own pace and earn milestone badges based on the success of learning certain behaviors and manners.
“We focus on helping owners learn how to give cues to set them up for long-term success,” says Terra, adding that once dogs earn five badges, they are eligible to move to a more advanced obedience program with a similar trajectory.
The agility training also features badges and takes the competition out of the obstacle course in place of fun.
“We also have playgroup sessions, allowing vaccinated, previously evaluated dogs to interact socially, much like a controlled, expert-led dog park,” says Terra, adding that guests also can book private time in the gym.
Finally, there is the puppy preschool.
“Thanks to our lab-grade sanitizer, we can welcome 2- to 4-month-old puppies who haven’t had all their vaccinations yet for special sessions so they can begin to socialize during what is a critical time in their development,” Terra says.
ZoomRoom.com/location/scottsdale
Being Brave
After Building Billion-Dollar Businesses, SERÁ Collective Founder Jenna Wyer Walked Away From It All to Embark on a New Venture
ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA PHOTOGRAPHY BY TALISA ORDAZ, MUSE HAUS
In her 16-year tech career, Jenna Wyer helped build five startups—including Venmo and Recurly—that ballooned into dominating corporations valued at more than a billion dollars.
She was traveling around as a high-powered executive and, as a second-generation Filipina, was usually the only female minority in a conference room full of men.
One day, Wyer walked away from it all.
She was at the top of her professional game, but personally, she was hitting bottom. Wyer survived two malignant ovarian tumors, which she attributes to the stress of her career, and yearned for more time with family than in airports and hotels.
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“I’m glad that I’m able to show them that even though it’s risky, it’s never too late to rewrite your story. They have the power to free themselves ... .”
build a new life. Her grandmother also taught her about self-care, including teaching her a beauty regimen at a very young age. Her grandmother taught her about resilience and that although life would not be easy, she could be successful with an education and hard work.
Dolly is the reason Wyer named her space SERÁ Collective, as the words of the song Que Sera, Sera still ring in her head. It was a song Dolly sang to Wyer when Wyer was a young child.
Not only were her children the driving force behind Wyer’s life-changing and lifesaving move, but her oldest daughter was also a source of inspiration for Wyer’s current venture.
SERÁ Collective, a salon suites concept that offers spaces to professionals in an array of industries and a content creation room where they can film and do podcasts, is that vision coming to life.
“I was successful on paper, but inside, I was so unhappy,” says Wyer, who considered the example she was setting for her three children, now 26, 23, and 7. “I didn’t want them to think that was the life they had to lead to find success.”
That motivated Wyer to leave the tech industry last fall. She took some time to heal and find her selfworth after being in a field where she wasn’t valued or treated well.
“I’m glad that I’m able to show them that even though it’s risky, it’s never too late to rewrite your story,” Wyer says. “They have the power to free themselves if they find themselves in a difficult situation.”
Wyer says her grandmother, Dolly, taught her so much about overcoming life challenges, having moved from the Philippines to the United States to
SERÁ is a brick-and-mortar realization of the space that Wyer wished her oldest daughter had access to when she was 16, when, with Wyer’s help, she had launched a global lash brand.
At the time, Wyer couldn’t find what her daughter desired—an aesthetic space that wasn’t cold and sterile and that accommodated an area to create social media content.
“It all comes back to what she wanted but couldn’t find,” Wyer says.
About half the business owners that operate out of SERÁ are minority women-owned. Many share Wyer’s story of struggle, being working moms and trying to prove themselves amid white male-dominated arenas. She wanted to give women entrepreneurs a safe and supportive place to achieve their dreams.
“I thought, if I couldn’t find my community, I’m going to build my community,” Wyer says. “In many
ways, they are braver than I. It fills my soul watching what they do and empowering them to build what they build.”
Born and raised in Chicago, Wyer dropped out of high school and had her oldest daughter when she was 18. She met her husband six months after her daughter was born, completed high school, and, with a 3-year-old and a newborn, attended the University of Illinois, Chicago, where she graduated.
In 2008, she met the founder of then-startup Braintree, a provider of mobile and web payment systems for e-commerce companies. She was the founding VP of sales, where she helped build billion-dollar companies, including Uber and Airbnb.
She moved to Arizona, where she had family and could be closer to the tech hub of the Bay Area.
Her middle daughter has followed in her mother’s footsteps and, after college, now works selling AI technology. Wyer wishes she had chosen another industry, knowing how challenging her own experience was as a woman in tech. Still, she has already seen her daughter flourish quickly, learning to build thick skin and not let a job define her or run her down.
Wyer uses her experiences in They Rise Up, through which she mentors women professionals navigating the working world while balancing a career and family.
“I wanted people to know they weren’t alone,” Wyer says. “I share my story, but most importantly, I want to let people know it’s possible.”
Three years ago, her oldest daughter was forced to close her beauty brand during the pandemic. The process to get there was difficult for Wyer to witness as both a mom and a fellow businesswoman, especially because her daughter was
“In many ways, they are braver than I. It fills my soul watching what they do and empowering them to build what they build.”
initially set on not allowing the experience to break her company, into which she had invested six figures.
Wyer stood back and let her find her way, until her daughter asked for advice.
“It was sad for me to watch her struggle on her own. As a mom, I wanted to protect her from hurtful things. The entrepreneurial side wanted to say, ‘Hey girl, I got the answers for you,’” she says.
“Raising two minority daughters, I’m so proud of what they both have accomplished, especially with the odds being against them—one being in tech, and the other an entrepreneur,” Wyer says. “I want to be as brave as them when I grow up.”
SERACollective.com
Alfa Romeo Giulia
DELIVERING RACE-INSPIRED PERFORMANCE AND ITALIAN STYLE
The 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia (pronounced Julia) offers a combination of exhilarating driving dynamics, advanced technology features, a seductive Italian design, and an optional all-wheeldrive system (AWD). We test drove the Veloce RWD, but the 2024 lineup also includes a limited 100th Anniversary Quadrifoglio and a limited edition Competizione model, boosting the car’s race-inspired performance even further.
The Alfa Romeo Giulia perfectly blends design, power, and innovation to create a driving experience unlike any other. The use of patented, lightweight materials means the Giulia handles like a sports car with increased response, reduced weight, and improved feel.
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The distinctive exterior sets the Alfa Romeo Giulia apart from other vehicles on the road. It starts with the burnished 5-hole, 19-inch sports alloy wheels. The full-LED adaptive matrix trilobe headlamps and transparent taillamps are iconic Alfa Romeo.
Alfa Romeo has discovered the perfect balance between a hands-on driving experience and cutting-edge automated driving systems. The combination of active cruise control, traffic jam, and highway assist helps you maintain safe driving distances in the city and on the highway. Remain connected while driving with SOS call, available Wi-Fi, Apple and Android connectivity, and top-of-class navigation.
• MSRP: $44,520
• Price as tested: $54,550
• 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder 280 HP with engine stop/start
• 8-speed automatic transmission
• 24 MPG City / 33 MPG
AUGUST 2024
AUGUST 1ST-31ST
August in Abstract
Wilde Meyer Gallery
View a remarkable variety of abstract work including pure abstracts, abstract landscapes, figurative examples, and everything in between during this exhibition at Wilde Meyer Gallery. Featured artists include Debora Stewart, Stephanie Paige, Kristin Harvey, and more. WildeMeyer.com
AUGUST 1ST-APRIL 27TH, 2025
Sled Dogs in America: Alaska & Beyond
Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West
The newest exhibition at this locale is Sled Dogs in America: Alaska & Beyond, by Western painter and sculptor Veryl Goodnight. This exhibition marks a notable shift in Goodnight's artistic exploration, showcasing her return to oil painting. This collection delves into the captivating world of sled dogs and their drivers, shedding light on their often-overlooked roles in American history. ScottsdaleMuseumWest.org
AUGUST 17TH
Sippin’ Series
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
The fan-favorite Sippin’ Series—an intimate experience that explores the world of spirits, wines, and cocktail concepts with professionals from Republic National Distributing—continues this month with a focus on Penelope Bourbon. The event is often a mixture of history, regional information, unique recipes, and new products, and is meant for attendees of any knowledge level to participate. ScottsdalePerformingArts.org
AUGUST 17TH
Sip + Shop Summer Market Series
Hotel Valley Ho | 10:00 AM
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., stop by Sands at Hotel Vally Ho for this free indoor market featuring local purveyors, wineries, and spirits. Enjoy live music while you sip, sample, and shop, and grab a copy of chef Robert Irvine's book Overcoming Impossible, which he'll be signing at the event. HotelValleyHo.com
AUGUST 20TH-25TH
Girl From the North Country
ASU Gammage
This is the Tony Award-winning new musical that the Chicago Tribune declares is “a Broadway revelation!” The show reimagines 20 legendary songs of Bob Dylan as they’ve never been heard before, including “Forever Young,” “All Along The Watchtower,” “Hurricane,” “Slow Train Coming,” and “Like A Rolling Stone.” ASUGammage.com
AUGUST 29TH-31ST
Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival
WestWorld of Scottsdale
This three-day extravaganza is a haven for anyone passionate about sewing, quilting, and crafting. Explore a vast array of exhibitors offering the latest tools, fabrics, patterns, and supplies to ignite your imagination and fuel your artistic endeavors. From sewing machines to quilting rulers, from yarns to beads, you'll find everything you need to bring your craft projects to life. QuiltCraftSew.com
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The Importance of Being Kind
This Nonprofit Helps Youth Practice Kindness
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Being kind.
That’s Scottsdale resident Marcia Meyer’s goal for the world.
To help teach the younger generation to understand how important kindness in the world is, Meyer launched a special organization that now impacts people across the country.
The Be Kind People Project is a nonprofit with a goal of building a generation of respectful, responsible, healthy, caring citizens and leaders.
The staff primarily works with schools across the country, delivering relevant learning and youth development opportunities.
“We aim to inspire humanity, academic achievements, and healthy living,” says Meyer.
The BE KIND CREW travels to schools, showcasing positive living and enrichment.
Meyer says she really enjoys seeing the kids in action, learning and understanding how to be kind.
“It is rewarding to see the results. School behavior incidents decline by at least 20 percent on average in the first year, and the schools using BE KIND programs have shown an overall 11 percent improvement in standardized test scores as compared to other schools,” she says.
The Be Kind People Project also offers after-school programs, programs for students with special needs, and BE KIND Youth Leadership opportunities. On average, it serves 175-200 schools per year. There is also an extensive online reach across the country.
There are ways for the public to get involved.
“We love volunteers,” shares Meyers. “People who want to help short term are always welcome. We also have needs for various professional and business skills to fill in the gaps and help with growing our organization.”
For Meyers, her favorite thing is to watch the organization blossom.
“The best part of doing the work is watching others grow, interpret, and expand the original concept. I think the biggest reward has been the young adults who come back and work with the organization as part of their first job.”
TheBeKindPeopleProject.org
