Sonoran Foothills, AZ June 2024

LIFE + CULTURE

MEET THE MAN THEY CALL DR. SCOTTSDALE - INSIDE JUNE'S COVER FEATURE!

GRILL LIKE A PRO, SWING WITH PRECISION, AND DRIVE IN LUXURY: INSIDE JUNE'S MEN'S EDITION.

Recognizing Father’s Day

Ever pondered the significance of fathers? Wondered about the impact you, as a dad, have within your own home? Well, let's cut to the chase - a father's role is monumental. They wield countless influences within their family sphere. But the extent of that impact? That's entirely in your hands.

For those of us raised without a paternal presence, the absence is keenly felt, a silent ache that accompanies us through life's twists and turns. Yet, within that void exists a complex tapestry of emotions, woven from strands of longing, resilience, and unspoken queries. A father's gifts of time, uplifting words, and positive actions resonate deeply within their children.

Reflecting on fatherhood this month, here are some ways dads contribute to their homes:

A father's strength exudes power. Their words serve as fuel for inspiration. A dad's embrace offers profound comfort. His smiles ignite joy and confidence. Time spent together is both enjoyable and productive. A father's physical presence can be challenging. His guidance lays the foundation for life-changing moments. Correction, when needed, can be both a lifesaver and a life-giver. Adventures with dad create indelible memories.

Take a moment to express gratitude to your father or father figure. And if you're a dad yourself, allow us to extend our heartfelt thanks. Your presence is invaluable to those who rely on you, both within your inner circle and in the broader community.

Happy Father's Day!

MEL FONSECA, PUBLISHER

@SONORANFOOTHILLSLIFESTYLE

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Mel Fonseca | mel.fonseca@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Alexandra James | alexandra.james@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Ashley Hathaway

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

inside the issue

DENTAL IMPLANTs WITH

business monthly

Reliance Heating and Air Conditioning

Reliance Heating and Air Conditioning: Your Trusted HVAC Solution. With decades of experience, Reliance delivers top-notch heating and cooling services. From installations to repairs, their expert team ensures comfort and efficiency year-round. Count on Reliance for reliable, personalized service and innovative solutions tailored to your home or business. Experience superior comfort with Reliance Heating and Air Conditioning.

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Clark Brother Investments

Clark Brother Investments: Your Partner in Financial Success. With a legacy of excellence, Clark Brother Investments offers tailored financial solutions. From wealth management to retirement planning, their seasoned team provides personalized advice and strategic guidance. Trust Clark Brother Investments to safeguard your financial future with integrity and expertise. Achieve your goals with confidence alongside Clark Brother Investments.

RENCO Roofing

With a reputation for excellence, Renco Roofing specializes in top-quality roofing solutions. From installations to repairs, their skilled team ensures durability and reliability. Count on Renco for exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service tailored to your needs. Trust Renco Roofing to protect your home with integrity and expertise. Experience superior roofing with Renco.

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Merrill Gardens Senior Living

Sculpting Beauty and Building Confidence

AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. CARLOS MATA OF NATURAL RESULTS PLASTIC SURGERY IN SCOTTSDALE.

ARTICLE BY ALEXANDRA JAMES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY

Dr. Carlos Mata

1. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON, AND HOW HAS YOUR JOURNEY SHAPED YOUR APPROACH TO PATIENT CARE?

My journey toward becoming a plastic and reconstructive surgeon was inspired by a profound desire to help people feel better about themselves, no matter their circumstances. During medical school, I was captivated by the diverse capabilities and the broad impact that plastic surgery can have. From correcting congenital anomalies like cleft lips to reconstructing areas affected by trauma, cancer, or performing aesthetic enhancements, the field offers a unique blend of technical challenge and artistic creativity.

2. YOUR PHILOSOPHY REVOLVES AROUND THE IDEA OF "BE YOUR OWN KIND OF BEAUTIFUL." COULD YOU ELABORATE ON HOW YOU INTEGRATE THIS CONCEPT INTO YOUR PRACTICE?

I’m deeply committed to my philosophy of “Be your own kind of beautiful.” This guiding principle shapes every aspect of my practice, emphasizing the unique beauty of each individual. My primary goal is to help people embrace and enhance their natural beauty according to their own standards, not someone else’s. In my practice, personalization is key. I work closely with each patient to understand their specific desires and goals. This approach ensures

that every procedure is tailored not just to enhance physical appearance but to align with the patient's self-perception and confidence. Whether it’s a subtle change or a more significant transformation, I strive to achieve results that look natural and feel authentic to the person.

3. MEDICAL MISSION TRIPS ARE A CORNERSTONE OF YOUR DEDICATION TO HUMANITARIAN WORK. COULD YOU DELVE INTO HOW THESE TRIPS HAVE SHAPED YOUR PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE AND PERSONAL EVOLUTION, INCLUDING THE TYPES OF SURGICAL PROCEDURES YOU COMMONLY PERFORM DURING THESE MISSIONS?

Medical mission trips are indeed a cornerstone of my dedication to my humanitarian work, and they have profoundly influenced both my professional expertise and personal growth. On these missions, the focus is predominantly on reconstructive surgeries rather than the cosmetic procedures commonly associated with plastic surgery in the USA, such as breast augmentations or body sculpting. Instead, I primarily perform surgeries like cleft lip, cleft palate, burn scar revision, toes and finger malformation, nose and facial reconstruction, and much more. These procedures can significantly improve quality of life by enhancing basic functions and social

integration for patients. These experiences have enriched my understanding of the human body's complexity and resilience. Every mission trip presents unique challenges due to varying resource availability and differing medical conditions in the populations I serve. Adapting to these conditions has honed my skills, making me more resourceful and innovative in my surgical techniques. Personally, these missions have been deeply transformative. They have reinforced the profound impact that skilled surgical intervention can have on a person's life.

4. CAN YOU DISCUSS ANY INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES OR TECHNOLOGIES YOU EMPLOY IN YOUR SURGICAL PROCEDURES TO ENSURE THE BEST OUTCOMES FOR YOUR PATIENTS?

In my practice, I strongly emphasize the integration of cutting-edge technologies and innovative techniques to ensure the best outcomes for my patients. I have invested in over 20 advanced devices that cater to a wide range of needs, from head to toe, encompassing both surgical and non-surgical treatments. My dedication to adopting new technologies is driven by my goal to use the newest and safest options available. For example, I use skin-tightening devices like Renuvion, which I use in all of my liposuction surgeries. Renuvion is particularly effective because it combines radiofrequency energy with helium plasma to precisely target and tighten the skin. This addition significantly enhances the results of liposuction by not only reducing fat but also improving skin laxity, giving a smoother, more contoured appearance. This approach reflects my commitment to achieving the best aesthetic and functional results for my patients, leveraging technology to enhance natural beauty safely and effectively.

5.  WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO INDIVIDUALS CONSIDERING PLASTIC SURGERY FOR THE FIRST TIME?

For individuals considering plastic surgery for the first time, my advice centers on the importance of thorough research and informed decision-making. It’s crucial to ensure that your surgeon is board-certified in plastic surgery. This certification is a testament to their rigorous training and adherence to high standards of care, safety, and ethics. Start by exploring the surgeon's portfolio of before and after photos, which can provide a realistic expectation of the results they can achieve and their skill level. Additionally, prepare a list of questions to ask during your consultation. This should include inquiries about their experience with the specific procedure you’re interested in, the techniques they use, what the recovery process will entail, potential risks, and how they handle complications.

Lastly, ensure that you feel comfortable and confident with the surgeon you choose. The relationship between a plastic surgeon and patient is built on trust, and feeling assured in your surgeon's capabilities and approach can significantly impact your satisfaction with the results and your overall experience.

6. IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, HOW DO YOU MANAGE PATIENTS' EXPECTATIONS AND ENSURE THEY HAVE REALISTIC GOALS FOR THEIR DESIRED OUTCOMES?

In my practice, managing patients' expectations involves clear and honest communication from the start. During consultations, I discuss their goals and provide a realistic assessment of what can be achieved through plastic surgery. I use before and after photos of similar cases to illustrate potential outcomes and ensure patients understand the limitations and possibilities of their desired procedures. This transparent approach helps patients set achievable expectations and contributes to their overall satisfaction with their surgical results.

Visit www.naturalresultsaz.com to book a consultation.

MIXING HEALTH AND FLAVOR

A Delicious Mocktail to Savor Without the Alcohol.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

INGREDIENTS

ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP

• 1 cup cane sugar

• 1 cup water

• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary

ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

• 5 tablespoon pear juice

• 1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup

• 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice

• sparkling water to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP

Combine sugar and water in a pot and cook over medium heat. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and toss in rosemary sprigs. Cool Completely.

HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL

Pour pear juice, rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water. Add ice and garnish if desired.

Perfecting Your Golf Swing

ARTICLE BY DANIEL SCHOWENGERDT

Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.

Get fit for equipment.

01.

If you are buying clubs off the rack, you aren’t giving yourself the best chance for success. Golf technology is evolving every year, and although you don’t need to buy a new driver each year, if you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.

On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.

As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.

Get good golf instruction, REGULARLY.

02.

We’ve all heard someone say, “I should get a lesson sometime.” To be effective, you need regular lessons from a PGA certified pro, not just one lesson. Getting quality instruction from the same instructor can turn slices into draws and give you the confidence to play with anyone on any course. Years ago, golf instructors started instruction with chipping and putting and then graduated to the driver. Now, instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first. My friend regularly outdrives me by 50 yards, but my ball is in the hole first most of the time because of my training and practice on the short game.

Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.

03.

There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads: Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz

Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs

Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)

Practice your short game every day.

04.

You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.

Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.

Instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first.

Position the ball in the back of your stance, just inside your back ankle. This will help avoid hitting it thin. That ball position will also help you hit the ball with a descending blow, and as Dave Pelz says, “hit the little ball (golf ball) before the big ball (the earth).”

Turn your feet 30 degrees toward the target and have 70% of your weight on your front foot which also promotes the descending blow.

Use a putting stroke to hit the ball. That’s right—do not use your hands or wrists for power. Using a putting stroke just off the green will create consistency and clean contact.

Don’t take the club back very far (depending on the length of the shot) and make sure your follow-through is 20% further than your backswing. This will ensure accelerating through the ball.

Use the right club. I use anything from a 9 iron to 60-degree wedge for this shot. Use a 9 iron or wedge when you need the ball to roll further once it hits the green, and use a more lofted club for less roll. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

If you perfect this shot, you’ll be chipping in and getting up and down much more often.

The bluegrass state of Kentucky with the Appalachian Mountains is indisputably known as the Mecca of bourbon and the location of America’s only Bourbon Trail.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail, established in 1999, is dotted with a total of 37 distilleries scattered throughout the regions of Louisville, Western Kentucky, Bardstown, Lexington and North Kentucky.

For bourbon aficionados and road trip lovers alike, the trail promises scenic country drives, historic architecture, and an abundance of restaurants and tasting rooms with some distilleries spanning more than 100 miles apart.

The most popular bourbon distillery locations one might expect to see along the trail are: Angles Envy, Maker’s Mark, Michter’s, Wild Turkey, Heaven Hill, Lux Row, Old Forester, Four Roses, Evan Williams, Bulleit, and Jim Beam.

Within each distillery and on its grounds, bourbon lovers can expect to find a variety of bourbon price points, flavor profiles, distilling and aging techniques, and historical points of interest. Each location offers a variety of tour options: some focusing on the chemistry of bourbon distillation, the art of tasting, the barrel charring process, or the rich (and checkered) history of bourbon’s origins.

A TOUR OF AMERICA'S ONLY BOURBON TRAIL

TOASTING

THE

The name

“bourbon” hails from the original

Bourbon County,

which

was a region carved from a portion of the Fayette County of Virginia in 1785.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail, established in 1999, is dotted with a total of 37 distilleries.

One constant seems to remain—most Kentucky distilleries cannot broach the topic of their favorite drink without also offering a glimpse of its history. The name “bourbon” hails from the original Bourbon County, which was a region carved from a portion of the Fayette County of Virginia in 1785. The county, which belonged to the then-brand-new state of Kentucky, was named in honor of the French House of Bourbon to show gratitude to King Louis XVI for his vital assistance during the American Revolutionary War.

Prior to its exodus from the region, loads of white oak barrels cut from the forests of Arkansas were first branded with the Bourbon County label. The county logo branded on the barrels soon gave way to its shorthand references: Bourbon. The rest is, quit literally, history.

The oldest operational distillery in Kentucky is Maker’s Mark, which began distilling in 1805 and has since been recognized as a National Historic Landmark. In 1964, a Congressional Resolution declared bourbon to be an indigenous product of the United States. This distinction renders bourbon as the official American Spirit. To be recognized as a bourbon, a spirit must meet specific and strict requirements set forth by law. In fact, bourbon distillation marks one of America’s very first examples of a consumer protection law with the establishment of the “Bottled-in-Bond” Act in 1897 (The Bottled-in-Bond designation has bourbon standards which supersede those of single-malt Scotch).

All bourbon starts as what distillers refer to as White Lightning—an uncolored, unaged, and unflavored whiskey. Whiskey functions as the stem cell of bourbon—it’s the bare bones and the foundation. This whiskey must be made with mash consisting of at least 51% corn. As long as that ratio is met, the mash may also include other grains such as rye and barley. During the distillation process, the liquid must not supersede a proof of 160, and must not supersede a proof of 125 at the time it’s poured into barrels to begin the aging process. All bourbon must be aged in new, charred, white oak barrels for a minimum of two years before it is finally bottled at 80 proof or higher. No other dyes or flavors may be introduced into the distilling or aging process if a bourbon is to retain its namesake.

Even though 95% of bourbon is distilled in Kentucky, bourbon does not need to be distilled in the state to be considered authentic. Most bourbon was historically

made in Kentucky due to its geography. The rich source of limestone in Kentucky earth acts as a natural aquifer, purifying the water and removing the more peaty flavors one would find in spirits distilled with earthier water quality, such as Scotch. The varied temperatures, humidity levels, and weather patterns in the Kentucky region cause the white oak barrels to contract and swell. This unique aging process gives bourbon its signature amber hue as well as its sweet and dynamic flavor.

While the tour itinerary is flexible enough to have many starting points, the official “start” of the trail can be found at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center located at the Frazier Museum on Historic Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville. The destinations along the trail can be planned a number of ways: by distillery, by region, or by organized tour itinerary. Some distillery locations are packed as tightly as an 8-mile radius, with the average tour lasting about 90 minutes.

Guests who schedule an official KBT tour receive a Kentucky Bourbon Trail passport at the beginning of their journey and have the pleasure of watching stamps fill their pages as they makes their way through the Kentucky countryside. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Passports do not expire, so travelers may rest assured that they can complete any unfinished portions of their tours at a later date if the tastings become too rigorous. Each distillery along the trail has its own admission fee for tours but offer more than one tour option at each location. Some Distilleries, such as Four Roses and Jim Beam, offer two distillery tour locations. Guests are welcome to visit both locations if they desire but will receive only one stamp in their Bourbon Trail passports.

For those who want to travel off the beaten path, several famous distilleries in the area do not appear on the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail list. One of the more famous of these is the Buffalo Trace Distillery, responsible for distilling bourbon of that name as well as the more rare and sought-after bottles of Blanton’s and E.H. Taylor. The Buffalo Trace distillery is located on a national landmark and offers free tastings, as well as Ghost tours for those who are interested in a different kind of spirit.

For a complete list of distilleries, tour schedules, tour booking details, and frequently asked questions, visit KYBourbonTrail.com

Defender 110

X-Dynamic

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ADVENTURE AWAITS IN A REIMAGINED LAND ROVER CLASSIC

Land Rover has managed to reimagine a classic in a masterful way. The new Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE is ideal whether you’re heading out for a day off-roading, or making a quick run to pick up groceries or the kids from school. The Defender offers an unmatched exterior, extreme durability, best-in-class capability, and stunning technology.

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR FEATURES

The Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE featured a sliding panoramic roof, automatic headlight leveling, and keyless entry. The all-terrain tires will take you easily over the roughest terrain.

Inside, you’ll love the 12-way heated and cooled electric memory leather front seats. You’ll enjoy entertainment on the go with the 10-inch Touchscreen, interactive driver display, and Meridian Sound System 400W with 10 speakers and a subwoofer.

UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE

The Defender is engineered and tested to the extreme. According to Land Rover, is it the “toughest and strongest vehicle ever” and has undergone rigorous testing.

If you want to head off-the-grid, Defender is ready. It has a 370-lb. dynamic roof load and a 661-lb. static load. It can tow up to 7,716 lbs. with the Advanced Tow Assist. The electro winch has a maximum pulling force of 10,000 lbs., operated via remote control.

MSRP: $72,000

Price as tested: $87,973 17 MPG city/20 MPG highway

EXPERIENCE the Sensation

ARTICLE BY SUZANNE VICTOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELE CELENTANO

Musical Theatre of Anthem Unveils Unforgettable Summer Programs and 2024-2025 Season Lineup!

Musical Theatre of Anthem (MTA) is proud to announce its exciting lineup of summer programs and the remaining shows for its Sensational 17th Season, promising a thrilling experience for performers and patrons alike.

MTA's summer programming caters to ages 6-21, offering a diverse range of opportunities for aspiring young artists. From July 7 through July 13, 2024, children aged 6-12 can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Disney's The Jungle Book KIDS. Following this, from July 16 through July 28, 2024, teenagers aged 13-18 can showcase their talents in 42nd Street Youth Edition, a dynamic production sure to captivate audiences. Finally, from August 1 through August 4, 2024, MTA's Summer Performing Arts Institute invites participants aged 8-11, 12-16, and 17-21, grouped by experience, to refine their skills in dance, tap, voice, acting, and improv. MTA prides itself on casting all youth who audition for its productions and offers scholarships to support accessibility.

Jackie Hammond, MTA Board Member and Producing Artistic Director, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, highlighting productions such as 42nd Street, Disney's Frozen Jr., Six The Musical Teen Edition, and a Stephen Sondheim masterpiece (to be announced). The season also includes beloved favorites like Little Shop of Horrors, Disney's Little Mermaid Jr., Les Miserables School Edition, Disney's Jungle Book Kids, and Disney's High School Musical Jr., promising entertainment for audiences of all ages.

Beyond its commitment to artistic excellence, MTA remains dedicated to providing invaluable opportunities for youth to explore their passion for the arts. Through participation in productions, workshops, and classes, young actors develop crucial skills such as teamwork, communication, and self-confidence. Furthermore, the transformative power of theatre fosters empathy and

understanding, shaping the next generation of compassionate and culturally-aware individuals.

MTA relies on the support of donors to sustain these initiatives and continue producing high-quality performances and educational programs. Contributions to the non-profit organization enable MTA to enrich the community by inspiring and empowering youth through the magic of theatre.

For more information about summer programs, performances, or to make a donation, please visit musicaltheatreofanthem.org.

Suzanne Victor, a proud resident of Anthem, has been involved with Musical Theatre of Anthem for over seven years, with her children enthusiastically participating in its exceptional programs and shows. Alongside her dedication to the arts, Suzanne contributes to the success of businesses through her expertise in digital marketing consulting.

ABOUT SUZANNE VICTOR:

JUNE 2ND

Cécile McLorin Salvant

4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 5:00 PM

Experience the mesmerizing talent of jazz virtuoso Cécile McLorin Salvant, renowned for her expansive vocal range and captivating storytelling. Witness her Grammy-winning magic live!

JUNE 12TH

Phoenix Art Museum Film Night

1625 North Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85004 | 6:00 PM

Experience the cinematic brilliance of Cristian Mungiu at Phoenix Film Night with "R.M.N." Dive into the depths of societal power structures and ethical dilemmas in this thought-provoking masterpiece.

JUNE 21ST

White Mountains Balloon Festival presented by Sierra Propane

Mountain Meadow Recreation Complex 1101 S. Woodland Road Lakeside, Arizona 85929 | 6:00 AM

Soar above the breathtaking White Mountains at the 7th annual White Mountains Balloon Festival, June 21-23, 2024. Enjoy balloon launches, live music, food trucks, and more! Visit www.wmbfaz.com for more information.

623.374.9498 www.restoring-vitality.com 34470 S Old Black Canyon Hwy Black Canyon City, AZ 85324

Treating The Whole Person Through Naturopathic Medicine

Restoring Vitality is a naturopathic health clinic. When you step into our office, you will experience a level of care that sets us apart. We take the time to listen and ask the right questions to understand the root of your health concerns. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms, and that starts with a thorough understanding of your unique situation.