Uptown Magazine February 2015

ARCADIA

|

B I LT M O R E

|

CENTRAL CORRIDOR

Valentine’s Day! DATE IDEAS FOOD OPTIONS FASHION STYLES

SHAKE IT UP

TOM SIZEMORE THE ACTOR OPENS UP ABOUT HIS NEW ARIZONA MOVIE, DURANT’S NEVER CLOSES

WWW.UPTOWNPHOENIX.COM | RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP | FEBRUARY 2015

MEET OUR FAVORITE BARTENDERS

Two of Arizona’s Premier Plastic Surgeons

Breast Enhancements Mommy Makeovers Tummy Tucks Facial Rejuvenation

*Dr. Gawley is a member.

Dr Ong

• Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery • Plastic Surgery Residency Vanderbilt University • General Surgery Residency University of Arizona

Dr. Gawley • • • •

Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery Member American Society of Plastic Surgeons Chief of Plastic Surgery Scottsdale Shea Hospital Plastic Surgery Residency University of Texas

Q: What type of implant is the best implant for breast augmentation - saline or silicone?

A: Since the FDA approval of silicone implants like the “gummy bear” implant, silicone implants have become the

most popular choice. Patients prefer this type of implant because it produces a more natural look and feel to their breast augmentation. If you have a good amount of breast tissue, a saline implant can produce excellent results as well. During your consultation we can discuss all of the factors associated with both implant types and together we can choose an implant that will be the best choice for you.

Q: Can I get a breast lift using an implant? - I don’t think I want scars on my breasts.

A: Some lift can be achieved using a breast implant alone. Our goal is to recommend a procedure that will give

you the best breast shape possible and sometimes this means an incision needs to be made on the breast. After a consultation discussing the available options with the anticipated outcomes and reviewing our numerous pre and post-op photographs, many patients are happy to trade the incision lines for a beautiful breast shape and size. We will help you make the decision that is comfortable and right for you.We look forward to meeting you at Gawley Plastic Surgery. Please call 480.696.6391 for your consultation with one of our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons.

Visit our website to view great before and after photos and additional specials. Call 480.696.6391 today for your consultation.

(480) 696-6391

8913 E. Bell Rd., Ste. 101B, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 | www.gawleyplasticsurgery.com

Share the Love

Refer a new patient to MD Skin and Spa! When your referral has an MD Skin & Spa service performed, you will enjoy that same service for FREE. New to MD Skin & Spa? Schedule an appointment for you and your friend to enjoy the savings. Call to schedule your appointments today.

Cannot be combined with any other special or pre-pay offer.

Introducing the new soft and sexy Restylane® Silk injectable.

Just in time for Valentines Day, soft, kissable lips can be yours and we’re one of the very FIRST practices to introduce it! The first and only FDA-approved filler designed specifically for the treatment of the lips and fine lines around them.

SCOTTSDALE’S PREMIER SKIN CARE LOCATION BOTOX® & Facial Fillers | Laser Hair Removal Ultherapy ® | ActiveFX® | PhotoFacial Chemical Peels | Medical-Grade Skincare Products

MD Skin and Spa Team Members: Nancy Knoll, RN; Catherine "Chilly" Chilcote, RN; Cindy Corn, CMA, CLLT; Jamie Wystrach PA-C

(480) 525-8207

8913 E. Bell Rd., Ste. 101B, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 | www.mdskinspa.com

BROW CLOSE-UP? BRING IT ON. LIGHTS. CAMERA. BROW ACTION. First-time? Your first brow wax is on us!

CAMELBACK / 602 297 1515 1650 E. Camelback Road Next to Chipotle MOON VALLEY / 602 495 1515 245 E. Bell Road Next to LA Fitness waxcenter.com/reservations

europeanwax

© 2015 EWC

YOU ASKED!

Q:

Dr. Gino Tutera, SottoPelle® founder answers your questions.

Why are so many people now getting hormone replacement using pellets?

Q: When did pellet therapy start?

A: Pellet therapy originated in Europe over 75

years ago and was introduced to the U.S. by Dr. Greenblatt at the University of Georgia. Pellet hormone therapy has been extensively researched and studied in medical journals all over the world since 1935, yet many people don’t realize that pellet therapy was actually regularly employed in the United States from the 1940’s through the 1970’s until pharmaceutical marketing intruded. Pellets were designed to change the internal physiology by reconstructing the hormone levels as close to what a woman or a man would possess in their late thirties or early forties.

Q: Why did you get involved?

A: I became involved with pellet therapy at Eisenhower Medical Hospital, in Rancho Mirage, CA, in 1992. I was approached

by Dr. Donald McEwen to see if I could help him insert pellets. I agreed but asked, “What are pellets?” This is the exact same response I hear from other doctors every day all over the world. Dr. Donald McEwen was taught by Dr. Greenblatt, so you might say this is only two degrees of separation from the physician who first started working with them in the U.S. The more I spoke and worked with patients the more I realized there was a need to individualize the dose for each patient’s HRT treatment. We all don’t wear the same size shoe, so why would anyone expect everyone to have the same pellet dose? A light bulb went off and I started individualizing patients with their own customized dose, which is widely used today.

Q: Fear not the testosterone pellet!

A: The majority of people fear hormones and especially testosterone. What they don’t realize is every human being, including women, needs and makes testosterone. As a matter of fact, women make 300mgm/day when they are in their prime! Testosterone pellets can be used to treat migraines and menstrual headaches. It can be an effective treatment for vaginal dryness, incontinence, urinary urgency and frequency. In both men and women, testosterone has been shown to increase energy, relieve depression, increase sense of well-being, relieve anxiety and improve memory and concentration.

Testosterone pellets can increase lean body mass (muscle strength, bone density) and decrease fat mass. Men and women need continuous adequate levels which can only be achieved with testosterone pellets for optimal mental and physical health and for the prevention of chronic illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, which have been associated with low testosterone levels.

Q: What makes your practice so different than anyone else doing pellets?

A: I pioneered an innovative method of customized dosing that provides each patient with a precise amount of the highest quality bio-identical hormone suited to his or her individual needs. Prior to this development, patients were administered a one-size-fits-all generic dose of hormone, which is less effective and can trigger unwanted side effects.

Many practices offer bio-identical hormone pellets but do not use our unique patent-pending dosing system based on science. For them it might be guesswork. While often copied but never duplicated, SottoPelle remains the leader in pellet hormone therapy with its ground-breaking science.

Dr. Gino Tutera, M.D. FACOG SottoPelle® Founder

Locations throughout Arizona.

Contact us for more information!

480-874-1515 response@sphrt.com

www.sottopelletherapy.com

Jim McMahon Throws a Touchdown For Testosterone! “ I have started the pellets and Dr. Tutera and his team are doing great things to help athletes like me.”

The ability to achieve and maintain proper blood levels is the real secret to the success of our unique pellet therapy. It’s the reason SottoPelle® hormone replacement works so well for so many men and women.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO LIVE WITH IT! Unfortunately, these problems don't take care of themselves. Unless you take action and seek help your overall well-being will continue to worsen, The symptoms below can be related to a hormone deficiency: 3 LOW ENERGY/FATIGUE 3 IRRITABILITY/MOODINESS 3 WEIGHT GAIN 3 DECREASED SEX DRIVE 3 LOSS OF MUSCLE TONE 3 MEMORY LOSS 3 ANXIETY 3 TROUBLE SLEEPING 3 MIGRAINES/HEADACHES 3 FIBROMYALGIA 3 DEPRESSION 3 OSTEOPOROSIS 3 HOT FLASHES/WOMEN 3 NIGHT SWEATS/WOMEN 3 ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION/MEN 3 PROSTATE ENLARGEMENT/MEN CALL THE NATIONWIDE LEADER IN PELLET HORMONE THERAPY NOW! OFFICIAL SPONSORS OF

HELPING NFL LEGENDS AND ATHLETES 2X Super Bowl Champion Jim McMahon, Pro Football Hall of Fame Players, Retired NFL Players and supporters of the HOF Players Foundation are now patients of and strongly endorse SottoPelle®

Locations throughout Arizona.

Contact us for more information!

480-874-1515

response@sphrt.com

www.sottopelletherapy.com

Andrea Bazilus Designer

uptown now 47 Captured

A moment in time.

48 Low-Down

News to know.

50 Do

8 great events to attend this month.

52 Calendar

Specializing in Mid-Century Modern Design

Fun events happening this month.

54 Calendar/Event

The pARTy 2015.

55 Out

Valentine’s Day ideas.

56 Cuisine

Talking with Lana Coleman

trendsetters 17 Up Close Layla Linn’s tales from the bar.

Sarah Kirsch Richardson balances a busy schedule.

22 Beat Meghan Riley finds success in the Valley.

24 Beat Laura Lee Silman’s Sumits Yoga.

26 Her Style

Meet Nikki O’Shea.

28 His Style

Meet Tyler Allen.

30 Noticed

What women wore to events.

480.619.9930

andrea@redeggdesigngroup.com www.redeggdesigngroup.com

72 Seen Who went where, and what happened.

UPTOWN |

57 Cheers

Totally tiki.

82 New In Town

20 Beat

Custom Residential Kitchen and Bath Design Interior Design

at Different Pointe of View, who is cooking up a fun pastry for the Girl Scout Cookie Challenge.

8

| FEBRUARY 2015

Uptown Farmers Market.

Criminal Defense DUI & Traf fic Defense Small Business Formation & Contracts

Attorneys Shannon Peters, Tyler Allen & Anjali Patel

w w w. AllenLawA Z .com

6 02.4 5 6.0 5 4 5

Wrongful Termination Workplace Discrimination & Retaliation Estate Planning — Wills & Trusts Tyler Allen, Attorney tyler@allenlawaz.com

4201 N. 24th St., Ste. 150, Phoenix, AZ 85016

Do you feel your current treatments are just not helping you?

Here are some common patient situations that I see:

indulge

“My Prozac worked for a while then stopped working.”

58 Dwell

“My doctor and I have tried several antidepressants, and we can’t seem to find the right one.”

Serving up love.

59 Thing

The Dream Wave®

“Wellbutrin made me feel agitated and angry.”

massage chair.

“I’m taking 2 antidepressants at the same time and getting nowhere.”

60 Shop

“Paxil makes me feel emotionally numb.”

items.

“I’ve taken these antidepressants for weeks and I’m not feeling any better.”

61 Shop

“My Lexapro made my anxiety and depression worse.”

62 Allure

Wow with statement

Be square.

Color crush: Marsala.

These are all signs of misdiagnosis and mismanagement.

Please call me now so I can help get you on the right track to feeling your old self.

• Upscale Medication Management • Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) • IV Ketamine For Depression

Brian Espinoza MD Interventional Psychiatry

features 34 Tom Sizemore The actor on his role in

Durant’s Never Closes.

39 Our favorite bartenders

taste 78 Drink

See who made the list.

It’s a rum-derful life.

64 Fashion

79 Dish

Chic resale.

Fractured Prune Doughnuts.

80 Dining Giude Restaurants to know.

Board Certified & Re-certified

602.264.5684

1480 E. Bethany Home Rd. #230 Phoenix, AZ 85014

www.BrianEspinozaMD.com

ON THE COVER: Actor Tom Sizemore.

Photo by Manfred Bauman.

UPTOWN |

10

| FEBRUARY 2015

F I R ST H AND

ed note

A

MICHAEL FITZMAURICE, MD Founder of the Fitzmaurice Hand Institute Double Board Certified Hand Surgeon Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common hand conditions causing unnecessary discomfort and sometimes permanent nerve damage if left untreated.

A brand new safe and effective treatment option for Carpal Tunnel is the EndoTech® single incision endoscopic release procedure, developed at the Fitzmaurice Hand Institute.

Along with EndoTech®, patients also receive the state-of-the-art nerve supplement NeuroGen® which reduces inflammation and improves nerve recovery.

This unique combination has been proven to provide the most effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome available today. It can be done the same day as your consultation under local anesthesia and is covered by most health insurance.

When compared to a traditional ‘open’ procedures or standard endoscopic procedures, the EndoTech® Carpal Tunnel Release provides the quickest return to activity. In fact, most patients can remove their dressings in 2 days, and are able to return to unrestricted activity in one week.

s a writer myself, I can relate to the need to want to tell a story. I love learning about people, places and companies, and sharing the information with others. I love finding the deeper story and bringing it to life.

So, I can completely relate to Travis Mills.

After he read about Jack Durant, an iconic figure in Phoenix’s history, he was compelled to bring Durant’s story to life with the movie Durant’s Never Closes, which Mills not only wrote, but is also directing and producing.

The movie tells Durant’s story, and will be filmed almost exclusively in Phoenix. Actor Tom Sizemore will play Durant, and you can read all about the movie, and Sizemore’s take on it, on page 34.

In this issue we also highlight our favorite local bartenders. Did yours make the list?

Check out the story on page 39 to see.

Speaking of bartending, this month we profile Layla Linn, corporate mixologist and the only person in Arizona to hold the prestigious B.A.R. certification. She’s also the co-founder of this month’s Cocktail Week. Read her fascinating journey on page 17.

Enjoy the issue!

Yours, Michelle Glicksman Editor-in-Chief michelle@richmanmediagroup.com Twitter: @MGlicksman

The Fitzmaurice Hand Institute has special cash price discounts of $1599, which include all surgeon fees, NeuroGen®, consultation and imaging needed such as x-ray or ultrasound for nerve evaluation.

480.725.5270

19820 N. 7th St., Suite 115 Phoenix, AZ 85024

FitzHand.com

UPTOWN |

12

| FEBRUARY 2015

world class

H AND SURGEON MICH AEL FITZMAUR ICE, MD Founder of the Fitzmaurice Hand Institute Double Board Certified Hand Surgeon

Dr. Fitzmaurice has performed thousands of minimally-invasive, endoscopic hand procedures in Arizona over the last decade.

Dr. Fitzmaurice’s expertise provides relief from carpal tunnel, trigger finger, tennis elbow and thumb arthritis among other hand and wrist conditions.

His passion for patient care and innovative techniques have redefined his specialty and made him one of the most sought-after hand surgeons in the country.

Dr. Fitzmaurice is also a pioneer; he personally developed a line of nutritional supplements and patented surgical techniques to improve the safety and efficacy of hand surgery.

480.725.5270

S PEC I A LT I ES -

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Trigger Thumb Trigger Finger Dupuytren’s Contracture De Quervain’s Tendinitis Thumb Arthritis (CMC Joint) Tennis Elbow Wrist Pain

19820 N. 7th St., Suite 115 Phoenix, AZ 85024

FitzHand.com

who

PHOENIX

PUBLISHER Bill Richman

PHOTOGRAPHY Carl Schultz, Brian R. Smith

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS Stacey Richman

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Samantha Lapid sam@richmanmediagroup.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michelle Glicksman

CONTACT US EDITORIAL michelle@richmanmediagroup.com

CREATIVE DIRECTORS Lalo Reyes Anthony Cox

ADVERTISING bill@richmanmediagroup.com 480.229.3122

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alison Bailin Batz, Susan Lanier-Graham, Lisa Kasanicky, Taryn Jeffries, Elizabeth Liberatore, Gretchen Pahia, Jennifer Parks, Gabby Richman, Shana Schwarz

SUBSCRIBE www.uptownphoenix.com

P: 480.229.3122 | 10632 N. Scottsdale Road Suite B-215, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 © 2015, RICHMAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

CRAVE IN GOOD CONSCIENCE

BILT MORE FASHION PARK | 602. 7 74.3 488 S COT TS DA L E Q U A RT E R | 4 8 0. 265.450 0

TRU EFOODKITC HE N.COM TFK_UptownMag_LettuceWraps_7.063x4.625.indd 1

UPTOWN |

14

1/19/15 11:23 AM

| FEBRUARY 2015

TECHNIQUE IS EVERYTHING.

Facelift, endoscopic brow lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty, fat transfer to face, full face erbium laser resurfacing

Facelift, upper and lower blepharoplasty with canthopexy, fat transfer to face

Revision Facelift, lateral endoscopic brow lift, canthopexy, fat transfer to face

Facelift, lateral endoscopic browlift, lower blepharoplasty with canthopexy, fat transfer to face

OVER 22 YEARS IN PRACTICE OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY WINNER PHOENIX MAGAZINE “TOP DOC” WINNER SCOTTSDALE MAGAZINE “BEST PLASTIC SURGEON” WINNER PHOENICIAN AWARDS “BEST COSMETIC SURGEON” WINNER SCOTTSDALE LIVING MAGAZINE “BEST FACELIFT”

5410 N. SCOTTSDALE RD. F-100, PARADISE VALLEY, AZ 85253 480.451.1700 | WWW.SHAPIROPLASTICSURGERY.COM FACEBOOK.COM/DRDANIELSHAPIRO INSTAGRAM @SHAPIROPLASTICSURGERY

Design C hallenge AR I Z O N A

JOIN US TO

Kick Off

THE CHATEAU ON CENTRAL DESIGN CHALLENGE!

FEBRUARY 27, 2015 5 - 7 PM A-List Designers compete to win an opportunity to design one of three Chateau’s from the ground up in 2015. Three designers will be chosen and announced at the Kick Off Party and one will win it all!

You won’t want to miss this year-long competition!

Chateau on Central 38 W. Palm Lane, Phoenix

Presenting Sponsors

RSVP for Access

chateaudesignchallengeaz.com

Special Guest Judge

LUIS D. ORTIZ Star of Million Dollar Listing New York Who will Luis announce as the winning Designers?

Hosted by: Monson Luxury Group, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

up clo s e

be a t

her s t y le

his s t y le

TALES FROM THE BAR Spirited stories from Layla Linn

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ PHOTOS SHOT ON SITE AT THE SECOND STORY, 4166 N. SCOTTSDALE ROAD; WWW.SECONDSTORYLIQUORBAR.COM

continued…

What do tequila, sprint car racing, the Miss New Mexico Pageant, and Arizona Cocktail Week all have in common?

Layla Linn, ADS and corporate mixologist, has had a hand in them all.

“Being a native of New Mexico, you would think I was an expert on all things tequila, right?” says Linn. “But I had tasted enough cheap tequila growing up to drown a mule. For the longest time, I thought I hated the stuff.”

FEBRUARY 2015 |

17

| UPTOWN

no t iced

up close Until, that is, Juan Beckmann Jr. “As a supplier/distributor, we often visit our brands’ distilleries and estates to learn the true stories and technical processes behind all of our producers’ famous bottles,” says Linn.

One visit brought Linn to the private, palatial Mexico estate of the Beckmann family, owners of Jose Cuervo Tequila.

“I am not going to lie—Juan was very easy on the eyes,” says Linn. “So when he poured some of their private Reserve Tequila, usually meant for dignitaries and heads of state who visit, I wasn’t sure what to do.”

After noticing Linn was letting the exclusive tequila sit for an hour, he asked her to join him in a sampling.

“The easiest way to get out of having to taste spirits—say you’re pregnant.

Then everyone leaves you alone,” says Linn. “But, I mentioned how easy he was on the eyes, didn’t I? I just couldn’t bring myself to lie to that charming face.”

So, she went with the truth—tequila wasn’t for her.

After laughing, Beckmann brought out cinnamon and an orange slice to pair with the sampling, and she ultimately tried it.

“From that day forward, tequila has been my favorite spirit,” says Linn, who now represents Tequila Don Julio, Herradura, Crown Royal, Tanqueray, Jack Daniel’s, Deep Eddy and Ketel One, to name a few.

That tequila tasting made one thing very clear to Linn: experiences equal education, and education makes you smarter.

“My passion for ongoing education in the field of alcohol and spirits specifically is a major reason I worked so hard to get to New York and the B.A.R. certification program,” says Linn, who is still the sole holder of the designation in Arizona.

Earning the B.A.R. certification is an educational achievement in the field of spirits and mixology akin to becoming a master of wine or master sommelier.

B.A.R. is led by six of the world’s leading spirits and cocktails authorities, including “King Cocktail” Dale DeGroff, Doug Frost, Steven Olson, F. Paul Pacult, Andy Seymour and David Wondrich. Each year, they only accept 32 candidates

worldwide for the exclusive comprehensive program.

The designation, in turn, motivated Linn and others to help build the local chapter of the United States Bartending Guild (USBG) to what it is today, which then led to the creation of Arizona Cocktail Week, now in its fourth year, which is held annually in February.

“Taking place from Feb. 14 to the 21st (www.arizonacocktailweek.com), our focus is to use national experts, as well as homegrown talent, to provide educational seminars, interactive tastings, wellness activities, pool parties, and more. More than 50 events will take place statewide in all,” says Linn, noting her favorite is the “Last Slinger Standing” bartending competition, which pits Arizona’s best USBG members against challengers from across the Southwest.

Speaking of the Southwest… back to Miss New Mexico and sprint car racing.

“Yes, I was Miss New Mexico back in the day, and I have sprint car racing to thank—or blame—for it,” says Linn, who grew up in a racing family with four brothers. “My dad, brothers, and even my sister-in-law raced until she had kids.”

The world of racing introduced her to some colorful characters, including the

UPTOWN |

18

| FEBRUARY 2015

owner of the Desert Sun bar, where she would take a job and eventually become a beloved bartender while attending New Mexico State University.

“My regulars were a kick, but one in particular was a bit odd—a woman who would come in and ask me personal questions. I assumed she was scouting me out as a date for her son,” says Linn.

“Wow, was I wrong.”

It turned out the woman ran the Miss New Mexico USA Pageant and saw potential in Linn.

It took three months of convincing, but after a pep talk from her father, she decided to go for it, focused on being herself. So much so, in fact, that most of her sponsors were regulars at her bar or from the racing community.

“When I won, I think I blacked out—all I remember is hearing my brothers and all of their friends screaming and cheering,” says Linn, who then competed in the final Miss USA Pageant before Donald Trump took over the organization in the late ’90s.

Like with most great success stories, Linn didn’t follow a clear—or conventional—path.

“Everything is connected. Every experience leads to a new adventure, which leads to new opportunities. Never be scared to take them,” says Linn.

Update Your Status

Everyo ne likes this

Results like these...

Speak for themselves!

Natural results with inv Cheryl isible in is 54 ye cisions! ars old and had and CO a facelift 2 laser.

CAR LOTTI CENTER Facial, Breast & Body Cosmetic Surgery Led by the dually accredited, husband and wife team of Drs. Albert Carlotti and Michelle Cabret-Carlotti.

(480) 947-7700

7930 E. Thompson Peak Pkwy, Suite 101, Scottsdale

CarlottiCosmeticSurgery.com

beat

MOTIVATED MOM

Sarah Kirsch Richardson balances family, work and hobbies

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

I

t’s a good thing that Sarah Kirsch Richardson is extremely organized, because she’s one busy woman. On her agenda? She’s married to the love of her life, Chris; has a 19-month old son; is expecting her second child, a daughter, any day; is the owner/designated broker with her company Tru Realty LLC; and has a variety of hobbies and interests, as well.

How does she do it?

“I’m extremely prudent about my schedule. Work time is work time, and family time is family time,” she explains.

Kirsch Richardson began working in real estate in 2005, and her business quickly took off. She loves helping everyone from first-time homebuyers to investors, and also likes the fact that no two days in real estate are ever the same since the circumstances of every transaction are different.

And, while Kirsch Richardson is extremely dedicated to her clients and business, she’s just as dedicated to family time, making it her major priority.

The family loves outdoor activities, and can often be found taking walks, riding bikes, and hiking. Kirsch Richardson also loves downhill skiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, “It’s all worth it,” she says.

Etc.

What is your top favorite activity to do as a family? RIght now it’s walking in the park—our toddler is VERY active and he just wants to run. Where do you hope to travel on your next vacation? We are planning a trip to my family’s cabin in Estes Park this summer, and maybe a spring trip to Mexico if business can handle it—I’m expecting a busy spring and the market seems to be picking up. What do you love most about your career? I love having a satisfied client when a deal is completed; real estate rarely ever turns out like people expect and managing those expectations can be difficult. But, staying in touch and communicating is most important.

UPTOWN |

20

| FEBRUARY 2015

INSPIRING PATIENTS TO CARE FOR THEIR SKIN

Dr. Nancy H. Kim Award winning Board Certified Dermatologist Fellowship Trained MOHS Surgeon

Ask the Skin Experts

We are the skin specialists of Spectrum Dermatology, and we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for all age groups. Each month, our team of professionals will be answering your questions.

L to R: Lisa Damante RN, Dr. Stacy Rosenblum, Dr. Randi Rubenzik, Dr. Nancy Kim, Dr. Maya Thosani, Dr. Kimberly Yeung-Yue, Juliette McCaffrey PA-C

MEDICAL ~ SURGICAL ~ COSMETIC LASER ~ BRACHYTHERAPY From skin cancer surgeries to anti-aging treatments, Spectrum Dermatology is recognized as one of Arizona’s leading treatment centers for laser, cosmetic, surgical and medical dermatology.

Spectrum Dermatology is committed to providing outstanding dermatologic and aesthetic care with state-of-the-art techniques and technologies to help you get the best possible results.

We complement our expertise with a warm, caring environment so that your experience with us is always a positive one. We specialize in treating all problems of the skin, hair and nails and offer a comprehensive range of cosmetic, reconstructive and curative techniques in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona.

Q: A:

I have skin cancer, but I’m a little apprehensive about the treatment. Is there a non-surgical option?

Yes! If you’re not sure about having surgery, or aren’t a candidate, we offer the revolutionary Xoft® Electronic Brachytherapy: a clean, painless, nonsurgical procedure involving low doses of radiation. Extremely safe and effective, it treats non-melanoma skin cancer without harming the surrounding tissues, and takes less than twenty minutes per week.

There is no downtime, no scarring – and most importantly, a high cure rate. Ask the experts at Spectrum Dermatology if you’re a candidate for this cutting-edge treatment… without the cutting!

CALL TODAY: 480.404.9889 SCOTTSDALE

7425 E. Shea Blvd Suite 110 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

PHOENIX/ARCADIA

4350 E. Camelback Rd. Suite A-200 Phoenix, AZ 85018

www.SpectrumDermatology.com FEBRUARY 2015 |

21

| UPTOWN

Have a question you’d like to ask?

For more information, or to make an appointment, please call 480-404-9889 or visit www.SpectrumDermatology.com.

beat

MIDWEST GIRL, DESERT WOMAN

Meghan Riley finds success in the Valley

BY SHANA SCHWARZ PHOTO BY CARL SCHULTZ

I

t’s probably harder to find a native of Phoenix nowadays than it is to find a transplant, and Meghan Riley falls into that latter category. The 34-year-old medical device saleswoman hails from Michigan, but has made a name and home for herself here in the Biltmore area. Though her industry—she works for Boston Scientific Endoscopy—is typically male-driven, she’s been extremely successful, and considers herself a role model for others.

When she’s not working, she loves to be active.

“I am a very active, athletic person,” says Riley. “I hike with my two Vizsla pups or run the canal with them almost every weekend. I golf one Sunday a month with my golfing crew and love to go to Top Golf. I also love to climb the rock wall at AZ On the Rocks or Lifetime [Fitness].”

A self-proclaimed music, movie and sports-lover, Riley keeps herself busy and looks out for her friends, something she thinks they notice. “[They’d say] I am high energy, bubbly, always smiling… Some refer to me as a lil’ jumping bean or a lil’ firecracker.”

Etc.

Who do you love to spend time with? I have a twin sister who is my best friend and my heart. She just had a baby and made me the godmother. I love her so much and can’t imagine life without her. Who would play you in a movie about your life? I think Lizzy Caplan or Mila Kunis. They both are smart and witty but comedic, as well. Where is your favorite place to take someone who is visiting from out of town? I always take them on a hike to either McDowell Mountains or Camelback. Then we grab breakfast at The Farm or OHSO so I can bring the pups. For nightlife, we go to The Vig to start out, then head out to Old Town to Whiskey Row or Bottled Blonde.

UPTOWN |

22

| FEBRUARY 2015

Be the warrior of your resolution this year! Happy new you!

RESHAPE YOUR MIND, BODY & SPIRIT WITH HOT YOGA. A stronger, toned and more flexible body and an improved state of mind encouraging relaxation, selfacceptance and awareness.

“In a yoga class, you practice poses that require stretching and compression of the joints, muscles, ligaments and other supporting structures of the body.

Your body naturally protects itself from physical exertion by generating heat from the inside muscles outwards. We start with the heat up front…providing that extra protection from the very first poses. Your body burns fat more effectively and you lose inches of shape in a relatively short time”.

Newcomers and experienced students welcome.

602.374.3055

2107 E. Camelback Road Suite A-18 Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Town & Country Shopping Center) www.sumits-yoga/biltmore

beat

LAURA LEE SLIMAN Creating a business

BY GABBY RICHMAN PHOTO BY CARL SCHULTZ

D

uring a time when Laura Lee Sliman was barely hanging on after multiple personal tragedies, her friend Dayna Henig brought her to her first Sumits Yoga class.

After being challenged both mentally and physically, she decided she wouldn’t go back—until she realized how great she felt the following day.

Yoga became not only her exercise, but also her therapy. After she began teaching and realized it was her passion, her parents encouraged her to open her own Sumits Yoga–and she did. She took out a loan and threw herself into entrepreneurship. She now owns one studio in the Biltmore area (www.sumits-yoga.com/ biltmore), and recently bought another in Las Vegas.

In her free time, Sliman loves spending time with her husband and three children. She keeps it simple with quiet nights in with family and friends.

Etc.

What is some of your favorite music to listen to during yoga practice? I am a music junkie! I have everything on my iPod from country, rock, alternative, classical, and hair metal. When I was in high school, I thought for sure Axl Rose was going to find me and marry me. It wasn’t a shock to my family and friends when I married Dave, who used to be a drummer in a hair band. What are your hopes for the future of your studios? Yoga is a journey and a life-long practice. I’m excited about the future of the studio and the many wonderful things the future will bring.

UPTOWN |

24

| FEBRUARY 2015

her style

W NIKKI O’SHEA

Redefining style

BY GABBY RICHMAN PHOTO BY CARL SCHULTZ

hen Nikki O’Shea created her blog, The Niktionary, she wanted to give readers an insight into her life and personal style. Although her tastes are always changing, she describes her current style as ladylike and edgy, mixing the two for an unpredictable ensemble. One of her favorite looks is a casual T-shirt with a girly skater skirt and heels.

The Niktionary is targeted for girls and woman who are just like O’Shea— looking to be fashionable on a fixed budget, while splurging here and there on some standout pieces. Some of her favorite places to shop are Nordstrom, Zara and Nasty Gal. She loves Steve Madden, Rebecca Minkoff, BaubleBar, and whatever other new brands she finds at Nordstrom.

In her free time, O’Shea recently began running, and is now training for a half marathon. She also works out at Orangetheory Fitness in Arcadia, and enjoys singing.

How do you think your style has evolved over the years? My style has definitely evolved over the years based on the celebrity influences throughout the decades. I look to celebrity style for inspiration, so going from the Spice Girls to Avril Lavigne, and Carrie Underwood to Blake Lively, has been a style journey to say the least! What is one of your favorite outfits you have featured?

One of my favorite outfits in my closet I've featured on the blog is the post titled "Ah Sookie Sookie" (http://nikkioshea. blogspot.com/2014/05/awe-sookysooky.html) In short, I love hats, I love fur, and I love flare.

UPTOWN |

26

| FEBRUARY 2015

A Surgeon’s hands a Woman’s touch ACTUAL PATIENT Before and After Tummy Tuck Procedure

$150 Off of your Botox® & Juvederm XC® or Voluma XC®.

Treatment by Dr. Sumer Daiza Offer good until 3-31-2015

$250 Off of your Botox® & Juvederm XC® and Voluma XC®.

Treatment by Dr. Sumer Daiza Offer good until 3-31-2015

***All Botox®, Dysport®, Juvederm® & Restylane® injectables are administered by Dr. Daiza.

Sumer L. Daiza, M.D., F.A.C.S. American Board of Plastic Surgery • American Board of Surgery • Recognized in the Guide to America’s Top Plastic Surgeons 2009-2014 •

The Only Double Board Certified Female Plastic Surgeon in The Valley with Cosmetic Fellowship Training

Plastic Surgery Center of Scottsdale Conveniently located in North Scottsdale at 101 and Scottsdale Rd. 18325 N. Allied Way, #110 • www.drdaiza.com

Call for a Personal Consultation: 480-585-0011

his style

TYLER ALLEN

Courtroom-ready

BY GABBY RICHMAN PHOTO BY CARL SCHULTZ

T

yler Allen always knew he wanted to be an attorney—which is how he came to create his own law firm, Tyler Allen Law. The firm focuses on specialties such as employment law, small business services, criminal defense, and traffic violations–to name just a few.

Allen describes his fashion style as professional, simple and classic. He spends his days in the courtroom or at meetings, so you can usually find him wearing a tailored suit with one of the ties from his extensive tie collection. He likes wearing classic colors such as gray, black, navy and white, but sometimes jazzes up his outfits with a bright or patterned pair of socks. Some of his favorite brands are Vince, Hugo Boss, and J. Crew.

When he’s not working, Allen typically wears gym clothes from lululemon, and he loves hiking, as well as cheering on the Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns teams.

He’s also an avid traveler and spends his time snowboarding and visiting family in Utah, or enjoying time by the beach in San Diego.

Where do you like to workout and what trails do you enjoy hiking? I workout at the Village and 24 Hour Fitness.

I live very close to Piestewa Peak and enjoy that trail, as well as Camelback.

What is one of your favorite trips that you have taken? I recently did a trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, with some friends. That was a lot of fun [because] I always like beach vacations. Mexico, San Diego and Kauai are my favorite spots.

UPTOWN |

28

| FEBRUARY 2015

WOW DOESN’T BEGIN TO DESCRIBE IT.

TWO BILTMORE ESTATES THE LUXURY COLLECTION

The final phase at Two Biltmore Estates, an exquisite community that redefines desert style and elegance. 15 residences, graced with expansive living areas, gourmet kitchens and panoramic views of golf, mountains and city lights.

Homes starting at $1.575 million.

TwoBilmoreHomes.com 602.508.1700

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. CAMBRIDGE PROPERTIES, KEITH MISHKIN, BROKER. TWO BILTMORE, LLC RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE PRICING, PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE UNITS. PHOTOS ARE REPRESENTATIVE, VIEWS AND LANDSCAPING WILL VARY. MICHAEL BAXTER PHOTOGRAPHY. www.baxterimaging.com ©2015 TWO BILTMORE ESTATES, LLC.

noticed

DESERT FOUNDATION AUXILIARY’S 49TH ANNUAL DESERT BALL at The Phoenician

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

1. Beth Pryor, Victor Costa dress.

8. Sandy Williams, David Meister dress.

2. Tricia Folger, Prada dress.

9. Theresa Keeley, Badgley Mischka dress.

3. Molly Nesline, Ralph Lauren dress.

10. Lexi Fuenning, Amelie dress.

4. Pam Overton Risoleo, Carolina Herrera dress.

11. Jennifer Fuenning, Prada dress.

5. Madison Rankin, BCBG dress.

12. Kate Eaton, Jessica Simpson dress.

6. Holly Haro, La Femme dress.

13. Kelly Eaton, BCBG dress, Duane Vaughn handbag.

7. Judy Carney, Tadashi dress.

UPTOWN |

30

| FEBRUARY 2015

...Luxury Consignment like never before

SHOP WITH US! Signature items include handbags, shoes, jewelry, gowns and ready-to-wear from luxury brands like: Chanel | HermĂŠs | Louis Vuitton | Prada | Gucci | Valentino

CONSIGN WITH US!

Bring in 10 Luxury items and receive a $100 gift card to use in store!

Offer good until February 28th.

Hilton Village, 6137 North Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85253 480.699.2700

Store hours: Mon-Sat 10am to 6pm Sundays 11am to 4pm

www.tbcconsignment.com

noticed

11TH ANNUAL CHILDHELP DRIVE THE DREAM GALA

at the Arizona Biltmore

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

1. Alia Hauter, Calvin Klein dress, vintage handbag.

7. Kelly Mitchell, Ann Taylor dress.

8. Jane Swagerty-Hill, Ralph Lauren dress.

2. Kimberlie Young, Calvin Klein dress, vintage handbag.

9. Misty Hyman, BCBG dress.

3. Carolyn Jackson, Ralph Lauren dress.

10. Pat Bondurant, Judy Fernando dress.

4. Nan Howlett, David Meister dress.

11. Nina Tignini, Nordstrom top, BCBG skirt.

5. Debbie Diciccio, David Meister dress, Dior handbag.

12. Barb Wiley, Nordstrom dress.

6. Jennifer Collins, Akris dress, Donna Karan handbag.

UPTOWN |

32

| FEBRUARY 2015

Introducing Dual-Sculpting!

2 Coolsculpting machines.

Freeze your fat in half the time!

At The SHAW Center The SHAW Center is the ONLY plastic surgery practice in Scottsdale to offer DualSculpting. With two machines, we can now treat separate areas at the same time, which means you can remove twice the fat in half the time!

Proven, Long-Lasting Results Without Surgery to Downtime

BEFORE

16 WEEKS AFTER SESSION

SINGLE SIDE TREATMENT Photos courtesy of Eric Bachelor, MD, FACS | (no weight change)

Why choose The SHAW Center for your CoolSculpting?

• 25 years of body contouring experience means sound advice on the best option to reach your aesthetic goals.

BEFORE

16 WEEKS AFTER SECOND SESSION

Photos courtesy of Grant Stevens, MD | (no weight change)

Call our professionals for: Botox Juvederm Voluma Radiesse

Microneedling PhotoFacial/IPL Laser Hair Removal Laser Resurfacing

• A Certified CoolSculpting Center since 2011.

• Experienced, Trained Medical Staff - Graduates of CoolSculpting University!

• Directed by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who has performed thousands of surgical and non-surgical body contouring procedures.

• DualSculpting! - Two is better than one.

We are also offering the NEW FDA cleared Coolsmooth™ applicator. This conforming hand piece allows us to now remove outer thigh fat and non-pinchable fat from almost anywhere!

The SHAW Center offers a unique CoolCredit pricing structure.

Save hundreds of $$$ with your advance CoolCredit purchase!

Reserve Your Spot On Our Priority Treatment List

8913 E. Bell Road Suite 201 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 www.theshawcenter.com

Call Today For Details

480.447.3300

Lawrence W. Shaw, M.D.

BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTO BY MANFRED BAUMAN

TAKES ON AN ARIZONA LEGEND WITH THE LEAD ROLE IN THE MOVIE DURANT’S NEVER CLOSES, WHICH IS WRITTEN, DIRECTED AND PRODUCED BY PHOENIX’S TRAVIS MILLS

UPTOWN |

34

| FEBRUARY 2015

A tough guy on the outside, but a ball of mush inside. Actor Tom Sizemore was describing the characters he likes to play—and perhaps himself, as well. At 53, the actor is prepping for his next role, a part in Durant’s Never Closes, a Running Wild Film about Phoenix legend, alleged Mafioso, and restaurateur Jack Durant.

Who is Tom Sizemore?

Tom Sizemore was born in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood in 1961, the eldest of three boys (later a half brother, half sister and one step-sibling joined the family). His early years were pretty normal for Sizemore. Although his parents married early, and both had come from meager backgrounds—both grandfathers worked the auto assembly lines in Detroit—the elder Sizemore studied hard, attended Harvard on a scholarship, and returned home a scholar and lawyer.

Sizemore was surrounded by family growing up.

“I had a large family. My dad’s two brothers were important in my life. I didn’t realize until I was older that my uncles were both small-time criminals.”

While his father had gone to law school and made good, his uncles hadn’t made the same smart choices. But to Sizemore, none of that mattered. His parents kept the kids away from any of the uncles’ problems, and the Sizemore family seemingly lived an idyllic life.

Until Sizemore turned 13, that is.

That was the year his parents separated.

From the age of 13 until he turned 15, Sizemore says his life was a mess because of the divorce.

“During that time, I threw myself into acting,” he explains. “Until I was 13, I always thought actors had to be born in Hollywood. Then I read a James Dean biography and found out he was born in Indiana.”

Sizemore knew then what he wanted to do with his life.

Sizemore says his parents grudgingly supported his acting.

“I think they supported it out of guilt over the divorce,” he says. “I found out later that my parents thought it was a phase and I’d get over it.”

Rather than changing his mind and attending law school or medical school as his parents hoped, Sizemore attended

Tom Sizemore as Jack Durant.

Photo by Michelle Palermo.

Wayne State University and then received a master’s degree in theatre from Temple University in 1986.

“After college, I moved to New York City,” he says. “I never really thought about the odds against making it as an actor until I moved to New York.”

At the end of his first year in the Big Apple, he returned home to Detroit, discouraged. Despite the fact that she had hoped he would choose another career early on, his mother encouraged him to keep trying.

“She drove me back to Manhattan,” Sizemore laughs.

Turns out, mom really did know best and in 1989, Sizemore had his big break when Oliver Stone cast him in a bit part in Born on the Fourth of July.

Over the years, Sizemore has appeared in films alongside many of Hollywood’s greats, under the direction of the industry’s superstars: Kevin Costner’s Wyatt Earp, Oliver Stone’s Natural Born Killers, Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan, Martin Scorsese’s Bringing Out the Dead and Ridley Scott’s Black Hawk Down. Now, he’s poised to take the lead FEBRUARY 2015 |

35

| UPTOWN

role, playing Jack Durant, in Durant’s Never Closes, written, directed and produced by Phoenix local Travis Mills.

Who is Jack Durant?

Jack Durant is a bit of a legend in Phoenix. He was born in the obscure backwoods of Tennessee, played pro baseball in the minor leagues, and worked as a pit boss for Bugsy Siegel in Las Vegas at the Flamingo Hotel in the 1940s. Married and divorced five times during his life, Durant ran a whorehouse in Globe-Miami, and was considered one of Arizona’s 10 most dangerous men by the FBI at the time. Some say he was in the Mafia. In July 1950, he opened Durant’s steakhouse in Downtown Phoenix—a restaurant that will celebrate its 65th birthday this year.

Sizemore says he can relate to Durant.

“From what I’ve learned so far, he was a hardass, a taskmaster,” explains Sizemore. “But underneath, he was loveable and very needy.”

Durant—by all accounts a truly selfmade man—told people that to understand

James Alire on set.

Photo by Michelle Palermo.

Durant’s Never Closes

Travis Mills on set.

Photo by James Alire.

him they needed to eat at his restaurant, because the restaurant was who he was.

Durant created the restaurant that still stands as an icon in Central Phoenix.

Back in the day, regulars included Joe DiMaggio, Clark Gable and John Wayne.

The iconic red leather banquettes and red floral wallpaper has been silent witness to dinners with Marilyn Monroe, Lucille

Ball, and every Arizona governor since 1950. The classic pink building with the red awning (but locals usually enter through the back door) has changed little in its 65-year history, even after Durant himself died in 1987. Now, the restaurant is being recreated for the big screen, and Sizemore is eager to portray the legend behind the establishment.

UPTOWN |

36

| FEBRUARY 2015

Travis Mills traveled the world as a child— born to expat parents, he grew up in the Comoros Islands off the east coast of Africa before finding his way to Arizona in 1997. Mills finished high school here, and was one of the earliest attendees at what was then the new Arizona State University (ASU) film school. Mills’ passion for films was recognized by one of his ASU professors, Gus Edwards. When Edwards retired, he started a new venture with Mills: the two of them founded Running Wild Films in 2010 with a commitment to make great films right here in Arizona.

Since founding the company, Mills has completed five features and more than 100 short films, including the ambitious 52 films/52 weeks project in 2013.

Inspired by the book The Saga of Jack Durant by Mabel Leo and the play In My Humble Opinion by Terry Earp, Mills wrote a screenplay about Durant entitled Durant’s Never Closes. Mills says that he wants Phoenicians to learn more about this iconic figure in our state’s history.

“Durant is a fascinating character,” explains Mills. “I’d heard rumors about his Mafia connection, and then I read the

Phoenix New Times article. I found the book and play and he became more and more interesting. He’s larger than life.

He was a dynamic, important figure—very talented but very dangerous.”

Mills says that, despite Durant’s larger-than-life character, he hopes the movie will make him relatable to the audience. “It’s really about people in charge of their own little worlds. We all have to deal with employees, competitors.”

Once the screenplay was written, Mills had to decide on casting. He wasn’t certain at first about who would play the starring role. Sizemore doesn’t look anything like Durant, but Mills says that wasn’t the point.

“I want to be accurate to the personalities,” he explains. “When I met with Tom, I saw everything in the guy—pain, anger, happiness. He brings a weariness, life experience, and pain, but also happiness to the story.”

The film will shoot almost exclusively here in Phoenix.

“Our mission is to prove you can do it from Phoenix,” says Mills. “The world is changing. You can make movies anywhere. I don’t want to go to L.A., but I’m okay bringing L.A. to Phoenix.”

Durant’s will be recreated on a local set and filming will take place throughout the Valley. Mills says he has considered filming some of the flashback scenes of Las Vegas and Tennessee on location, but there is a possibility that even those will be filmed here in Arizona.

Sizemore as Durant Sizemore’s voice grows excited when talking about the script and the part he will play in the movie.

“I didn’t know Travis Mills when I read the script,” he explains, “but it’s a really good script. Travis is single-minded and focused.”

For Sizemore, the director is often the key as to whether a film succeeds.

“A great director makes the movie,” he says. Among his favorites are Spielberg and Stone.

Sizemore loves portraying the tough guy characters. “I love the guys who are tough on the outside but inside they’re just a ball of mush,” he says. “The dichotomy of that fascinates me.”

Sizemore is eager to play Durant and to film in Arizona. “I’m looking forward to

Tom Sizemore in character.

Photo by Nick Fornwalt.

coming to Phoenix. I’m a huge Suns fan,” he laughs.

And, he is already getting ready for the part. “I’ve been reading about him, and Travis is going to arrange for me to talk to some of his friends.”

He also plans to spend about two weeks at a local Los Angeles restaurant, seeing how the restaurant works behind the scenes.

Looking Ahead Sizemore is energized as he talks about his future. He doesn’t ignore or apologize for his past. “I made some bad decisions with women and drugs,” he says without prompting. “I derailed my career. I did it myself and I can’t blame anyone else. It took a long time to pick up the pieces.”

But pick up the pieces seems to be exactly what Sizemore has done. He has been acting steadily the past few years, steering clear of tabloids and scandal.

He enjoys being with his 9-year-old twin sons, Jayden and Jagger. He has a new manager and a role on Red Road, the original SundanceTV drama series about a small town sheriff, a tragedy, and a cover up, starring Jason Momoa.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

37

| UPTOWN

Sizemore is also hard at work on a pet project—producing and starring in An Honest Thief, written by his brother, Aaron Sizemore.

“It’s based on my uncles,” explains Sizemore.

A decade ago, both of his father’s brothers and his sister died within five years of each other. It was a hard time for Sizemore’s father, and the sons wanted to do something for their dad’s birthday.

“We decided to write a short for his birthday. My brother is a lawyer, but he’s also a really good writer. The script was great.

It’s a character study about three thieves.”

Sizemore plays one of three thieves who steal a baseball card collection from a Detroit pawnbroker. The film is still in pre-production and the brothers have been trying to raise the money to film on location in Detroit.

Sizemore says that most of all, he just wants to keep on acting. “I love to act. I know some actors [who are middleaged] who don’t enjoy it as much anymore, but I always enjoy acting.”

Find out more about the upcoming movie Durant’s Never Closes online at www.durantsnevercloses.com.

our favorite

Who shakes, stirs and entertains best? Here, our picks

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

When you take a seat at the bar at a restaurant, what makes your experience great is not only how good your drink is, but also, the personality of the bartender who serves it to you. Our favorite bartenders are full of personality, easy to talk with, and fun窶馬ot to mention, they pour a mean drink. Cheers to that.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

39

| UPTOWN

Bartender at The Vig Uptown

Jason Serikaku Bartending since: 2000

What you love about bartending: My favorite part of being behind the bar is getting to know people who you would otherwise never meet. I’ve been fortunate to meet people of every profession, from all over the world. The memories, anecdotes, and friendships created at the bar are what I love most about being a bartender.

Favorite drink to make: Sweet drinks for big guys who look like they just got out of prison. And Whisky Rocks for their girlfriends.

Favorite drink you’ve created: The Irish Exit, named after the term used when a friend leaves without saying goodbye during a night of heavy drinking (also known as the Houdini).

1.5 oz. Jameson Irish Whisky 0.5 oz. Montenegro Amaro 3 dashes of plum bitters 0.75 oz. fresh lime juice 10 muddled mint leaves Shaken, topped with ginger beer You find inspiration in: I’m inspired by my friend Randy Embernate of Hellbent Brewing in Seattle. We bartended together in Hawaii, and to this day, I haven’t met anyone quicker to turn a stranger into a friend. He can carry on a conversation with just about anyone. I try to emulate his loquaciousness behind the bar.

Drink that is ordered most at your bar: Jameson, and cocktails containing Jameson.

Person you’d most like to pour a drink for: The “Tips For Jesus” guy. That would make a nice addition to my treasure trove of bar anecdotes.

What do you order when you go out?

I enjoy Jameson and ginger beer or a nice Manhattan, no vermouth sub a splash of Luxardo.

Any secret bartending tip or talent? I like to offer shots whenever I can and introduce friends at the bar who have yet to meet.

“We’re not here for a long time, we’re here for a good time.” Cheers.

The Vig Uptown, 6015 N.16th St., Phoenix; 602.633.1187; www.thevig.us.

UPTOWN |

40

| FEBRUARY 2015

Bartender at Black & Bleu American Grill

Kaylee McFarlin Bartending since: 2004

What you love about bartending: I love creating relationships with guests and making them happy.

Favorite drink to make: Margaritas–makes me want one!

Favorite drink you’ve created: The Angry Irishmen—it’s a spicy, Jameson and ginger drink.

You find inspiration in: Happy guests who are there to continue to have a good time!

Drink that is ordered most at your bar: Wine and vodka cocktails.

Person you’d most like to pour a drink for: Aaron Rogers; I love him!

What do you order when you go out?

Vodka soda with an orange.

Any secret bartending tip or talent? Treat your guests like they are part of the family and they will always want to come see you!

Black & Bleu American Grill, 9343 E. Shea Blvd., Ste. B135; Scottsdale; 480.767.1810; www.blackbleu.com.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

41

| UPTOWN

Bartender at Steak 44

Harry Laudencia Bartending since: 1991

What you love about bartending: I love the guest interaction and creating a great individual experience.

Favorite drink to make: The classic cocktails: Manhattan, Old Fashioned, Sidecar... etc.

Favorite drink you’ve created: I call it Fireside Chats. In a snifter, equal parts of Nonino Amaro and Bulleit Rye, with a clove studded orange twist.

You find inspiration in: My dogs, sports, and news.

Drink that is ordered most at your bar: It’s a good mix, but probably martinis and red wine.

Person you’d most like to pour a drink for: Anyone I have a history with (friends, family, co-workers) or anyone willing to have or make history with me.

What do you order when you go out?

Usually I will order wine.

Any secret bartending tip or talent?

When you get busier... slow down. Let your mind do more work for you.

Steak 44, 5101 N.44th St., Phoenix; 602.271.4400; www.steak44.com.

UPTOWN |

42

| FEBRUARY 2015

Bartender at Grassroots Kitchen & Tap

Kimmy Hermansky Bartending Since: 2007

What you love about bartending: I love bartending because I get to work in an upbeat environment and interact with genuine, interesting people. It’s all about the connection.

Favorite drink to make: The Beetlejuice.

It’s a new cocktail that I’m testing out behind the bar at Grassroots before debuting it at our new restaurant, Twisted Root, opening Spring 2015. We use 360 Vodka, muddled organic roasted red beets, agave nectar, freshly squeezed lemonade, and soda water.

Favorite drink you’ve created: The Pink Cougar. Deep Eddy Grapefruit Vodka, homemade lemongrass chamomile simple syrup, a splash of freshly squeezed lemonade, and a splash of Argyle champagne. I love this cocktail because it is a light and refreshing martini with a bubbly finish!

You find inspiration in: My two children, Madison and Jayden. They’ve taught me to slow down and appreciate the simplicity in life.

Drink that is ordered most at your bar: The Titos Martini, shaken with a dash of olive juice and garnished with our famous hand-stuffed blue cheese olives.

Person you’d most like to pour a drink for: My hubby. He travels quite a bit for work, so it’s a treat to shake something up while he relaxes!

What do you order when you go out?

Deep Eddy Grapefruit Vodka and Soda, because it’s light, tasty, and doesn’t give me a headache in the morning.

Any secret bartending tip or talent?

Stay positive and have fun. Good energy is infectious.

Grassroots Kitchen & Tap, 8120 N. Hayden, Ste. E-100, Scottsdale; 480.699.0699; www.grassrootsaz.com.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

43

| UPTOWN

Bartenders at Salt + Lime Modern Mexican Grill

Martin Tejedn and Michael Pellien Bartending since: Martin, 2006; Michael, 2014

What you love about bartending: (Martin) Meeting and connecting with new people.

(Michael) Meeting new people and having “regulars.” It feels great to have people come and see me!

Favorite drink to make: (Martin) Manhattans and Old Fashioneds. (Michael) Cosmos!

Favorite drink you’ve created: (Martin) Love Shat and Tic Tac. (Michael) I love making different sangrias for my regulars.

You find inspiration in: (Martin) Mixologist and flair bartender, Mike Hanley. (Michael) Guests complimenting a drink or service.

Drink that is ordered most at your bar: (Martin) Shop Special & Skinny B. (Michael) Margarita after margarita after margarita.

Person you’d most like to pour a drink for: (Martin) Iggy Azalea. (Michael) Josh Scogin.

What do you order when you go out?

(Martin) Old Fashioneds. (Michael) Jameson and various beers.

Any secret bartending tip or talent?

(Martin) Being a flair bartender. (Michael) Asking a guest how they like their drink.

Everyone likes theirs a certain way.

Salt + Lime Modern Mexican Grill, 9397 E. Shea Blvd, Ste. #115, Scottsdale; 480.661.5463; www.saltandlimeaz.com.

UPTOWN |

44

| FEBRUARY 2015

Bartender at Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Mitch Compton Bartending since: 2014

What you love about bartending: I simply love meeting new people and mixing drinks that make ’em happy.

Favorite drink to make: Doble Fina Margarita. Tequila is big around these parts!

Favorite drink you’ve created: Honestly, nothing in particular. I just enjoy making whatever our guests want—just how they want it.

You find inspiration in: The people. I’m here to take care of our guests. That’s my job and I love it!

Drink that is ordered most at your bar: Other than our local draft beer, the Classic Frozen, Doble Fina, and Little Larry margaritas are very popular.

Person you’d most like to pour a drink for: The President.

What do you order when you go out? Red Rover Irish Red Ale from Sleepy Dog Brewing in Tempe.

Any secret bartending tip or talent? A good tip is to listen to your bar guests so you can make sure they leave with a smile on their face. As far as talents, I’m trying to learn how to flip bottles, but I’m not quite there yet.

Hopdoddy Burger Bar, 11055 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.348.2337; www.hopdoddy.com

FEBRUARY 2015 |

45

| UPTOWN

P H O E N I X ,

MUHAMMAD ALI

F L O R E N C E ,

A R I Z O N A

BLAKE SHELTON

REBA McENTIRE

DAVID FOSTER

I T A L Y

KELLY CLARKSON

ANDREA BOCELLI

NOW THERE ARE TWO EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES TO JOIN CELEBRITY FIGHT NIGHT IN 2015!

Celebrate Reba McEntire’s birthday in Phoenix, with the Champ, Blake Shelton, Kelly Clarkson, David Foster and a host of stars, March 28th.

Join Andrea Bocelli in his home country for 6 exciting days, with Reba McEntire, David Foster and friends, September 9th–15th.

Previous guests have included Tom Hanks, Robin Williams, Robert De Niro, Jennifer Lopez and countless more!

Last year’s celebrities included George Clooney, Sophia Loren, Lionel Richie, John Legend, Ronnie Dunn and many more!

PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT MULTIPLE CHARITIES, INCLUDING:

PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT MULTIPLE CHARITIES, INCLUDING:

Winning the Fight for Charities Celebrity Fight Night Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. © 2015 Celebrity Fight Night Foundation, Inc. Muhammad Ali™; Rights of Publicity and Persona Rights: Muhammad Ali Enterprises LLC. ali.com © 2015 Muhammad Ali Enterprises LLC

Call Celebrity Fight Night at 602-956-1121 for reservations now!

celebrityfightnight.org Celebrity Fight Night Foundation | Jimmy Walker, President and CEO | Sean Currie, Executive Director

lo w - do w n

do

c a lenda r

e ven t

ou t

cul t ur e

R+B Diva: Laydee Jai took the stage at Char’s Has The Blues, 4631 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix.

The locale offers live music—specializing in blues, R&B, soul and funk—daily. Photo taken Jan. 20 at 9:37 p.m.

PHOTO BY CARL SCHULTZ

FEBRUARY 2015 |

47

| UPTOWN

cuisine

cheer s

low-down

A Spa Transformation

If you’re heading to the spa at the Arizona Biltmore any time soon, prepare to be wowed. The spa recently underwent a transformation, with everything from its name to ambiance to treatment menu being redesigned and reimagined.

The new Spa Biltmore offers a comfortable, soothing and modern environment, as well as innovative treatments that offer a nod to the history and tradition of both spa and the Biltmore.

A few new favorites on the menu? The Turquoise Sage Stone body massage and The Volcanic Sand Meets Red Clay Detox.

2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix; 602.381.7632; www.arizonabiltmore. com/spa-biltmore.

Gucci Guilty

February is the perfect month for Gucci to release its new limited edition fragrance, Gucci Guilty Diamond, since the fragrance was meant to symbolize intense passion.

According to the company, a diamond is, “A covetable jewel that exudes power and beauty. Infinite points of light emanate from its facets, scintillating with promise.”

The fragrance is available for both women and men.

“Pour Femme is a warm striking scent featuring notes of pink pepper, lilac, cardamom, amber and patchouli, while Pour Homme is designed to provoke with Italian lemon and mandarin, pink pepper, lavender, cedar and patchouli.” $88-$104 at Sephora or Gucci.

Read All About It

If you’re looking for a perfect coffee table book that’s not only gorgeous, but offers a nod to our great state, this is your perfect accessory.

Alliance Bank of Arizona recently published this stunning book, At Work in Arizona: The First 100 Years, which frames the story of Arizona’s economic history over the past century through the lens of the men and women who built it.

The pages include shots of Marilyn Monroe at the Arizona State Fairgrounds, Charles Lindberg visiting the nation’s oldest municipal airport in Tucson, and more.

Bonus: Proceeds from the book benefit 12 of the state’s education-focused non-profits. www.next100years.org.

The Food of Love

In honor of Valentine’s Day, we found a few local dishes that are made with at least one ingredient that’s an aphrodisiac. You’re welcome!

WHAT: Rawvocado Dip APHRODISIAC: Avocado A luscious avocado dip made with sunflower seeds and pepitas, served with marinated veggie sticks. $10 at Sage Kitchen, 4773 N. 20th St., www.sagekitchenphx.com.

WHAT: East & West Coast Oysters APHRODISIAC: Oysters Oysters with housemade mignionette. $3 each at J&G Steakhouse at The Phoenician, 6000 E. Camelback Road; www.jgsteakhousescottsdale.com.

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

UPTOWN |

48

| FEBRUARY 2015

WHAT: Hopper’s Poppers APHRODISIAC: Jalapeños Jalapeño halves are stuffed with a four-cheese blend, then baked in a custom cast iron skillet. $8 for an order of four or $12 for an order of eight at Sierra Bonita Grill, 6933 N. 7th St.; www.sierrabonitagrill.com.

do

Galaxy Gala 2015: Gridiron Glory

19th Annual Fresh Start Fashion Gala

Feb. 7, 6 p.m.

Don your black-tie attire with your kicks, cleats or tennies, and enjoy an evening with a “tailgate” party, “MVP” dinner, and “half-time” program, as well as the exhibit Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame at this event at the Arizona Science Center. $500. www.azscience.org.

Feb. 21, 6 p.m.

Get ready for an evening filled with a fashion show by Saks Fifth Avenue, a gourmet dinner, a live auction, and entertainment at the Arizona Biltmore. Joe Torre is honorary chair, and Kim McWaters will also be honored during this Fresh Start Women’s Foundation event. $500. www.freshstartwomen.org.

Valentine’s Day Gala 2015

The Honor Ball 2015

Feb. 14, 6 p .m.

This gala will be held at the Bentley Gallery.

Celebrate your Valentine’s Day with music, at this event where attendees will enjoy a dinner, a silent auction, and dancing. Superstar soprano Debrorah Voigt will headline the entertainment. $250-$500. www.azopera.org.

Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m.

Held at The Phoenician, attendees at this premier black-tie gala will enjoy dinner, well as entertainment by The James Band. Proceeds from the event will benefit the research, programs and services of the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare Shea. $750. www.shc.org.

21st Annual Tribute to Leadership Feb. 14, 6 p.m.

This event recognizes outstanding individuals in the community who embody the YWCA’s mission to eliminate discrimination and empower women. The event will be held at the The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix. $350. www.ywcaaz.org.

Paw Prints 2015 Feb. 20, 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy an evening of art, wine and food. Well known members of the community were invited to create one-of-a-kind paintings for this event, which will be held at the Allstate Appliance Showroom. The art will be auctioned off to raise money for Gabriel’s Angels. $25. www.gabrielsangels.org.

GlitzGlamGive Gala 2015

Beach Ball

GREAT EVENTS TO ATTEND THIS MONTH!

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

UPTOWN |

50

| FEBRUARY 2015

Feb. 22, 4:30 p.m.

Walk the red carpet to this Academy Awards Viewing Party, which benefits the Arthritis Foundation. Held at The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix, guests will also enjoy Rolfs Glamour Lounge, mystery boxes, a live auction, a fashion show, and the awards presentation. $500. www.arthritis.org/chapters/arizona.

22nd Annual Beach Ball Feb. 28, 6 p.m.

This unique gala offers a different theme each year—and this year’s is The Lemonade Soirée (with beach barbeque attire). The gala, which benefits Phoenix Children’s Hospital, will be held at The Phoenician, and includes dinner, an auction, and entertainment. $500. www.phoenixchildrensfoundation.org.

RAISING THE STAKES

HOW MAZVO AUTO CAR CARE CENTER IS CHANGING THE PERCEPTION OF AUTO REPAIR SHOPS – AND WHAT A STEAKHOUSE HAS TO DO WITH IT.

You’ve seen one auto repair shop, you’ve seen them all – right? The dirty, oil-slick floors; the uncomfortable plastic furniture you sit on as you wait, sipping coffee from an old machine, in the nicotine-stained lobby. You don’t know what’s going on with your car because they’ve taken it somewhere “in the back,” where you can’t see. All you’re left to do is thumb through an outdated magazine, pay the bill when it comes, and hope the mechanic did a good job. It’s always the same experience.

Unless, of course, you went to Mazvo Auto Car Care Center, where owner Shahe Koulloukian has made it his mission to change this perception. He believes that getting your car repaired should be a transparent process – and Mazvo has no problem with showing you exactly what you’re getting.

“Auto shops struggle with the label of ‘rip-offs’ or ‘crooks,’” says Shahe. “It’s because of their inability to connect with customers, to help them understand why they’re coming in.” At Mazvo Auto Car Care Center, he says, the focus is on solving rather than selling. Customers want to know what they’re buying, and they want to understand the value. And for Shahe and the rest of the Mazvo team, their job is to demonstrate that value. Literally.

“People get caught up in the myth that they can’t see what’s going on because it’s a ‘mechanic’s secret,’” he says. “I encourage my customers to look, understand, and learn how and why we’re working on their vehicles.” Shahe has invested heavily in the equipment, tools, and training that makes Mazvo a standout, and he’s always ready to share it with anyone who cares to look. But

even if some may not be “into cars,” it’s still nice to know there’s the option of having everything explained at a moment’s notice – just one of the many extra steps that Mazvo Auto Car Care Center takes to ensure that the customer’s experience is beyond expectation, every time.

Whether or not they choose to go behind the scenes, Mazvo clients can count on a premium, gold-standard level of service.

This is inspired by one of Shahe’s favorite places in the Valley – Durant’s steakhouse (in fact, he has been cast to play a part in the upcoming feature film Durant’s Never Closes). Jack Durant had a reputation for outstanding customer service, one that Shahe strives to replicate in his own business. “I like to think of my shop like his restaurant, where you have two very distinct parts: the front of the house – the area all customers see – and the back of the house,” Shahe says. “The back of the house, the shop, has to be perfect; that’s the expectation, the minimum. But the front of the house is where you set yourself apart.”

You might never think of an auto repair shop being similar to a steakhouse … but if it’s Mazvo Auto Car Care Center, it’s more like Durant’s than like a stereotypical, greasy old mechanic shop – at least where customer service is concerned. Jack Durant was passionate about delivering a fantastic experience to his customers, and Shahe relates wholeheartedly to that passion.

“We are completely committed to the belief that our company’s only reason for existence is a fully satisfied customer,” he states firmly. “Period.”

Mazvo Auto Care Center | 4610 North 7th Street, Phoenix | 602-248-8711 or www.mazvo.com

do Matthew Taylor, executive chef at Gertrude's restaurant, will be on hand to talk about your meal, and featured wine representatives will discuss the selected wine pairings.

The soulful styling of local jazz favorite, The Dmitri Matheny Group, completes the tranquil evening. 6-9 p.m. $145 for Garden members; $150 for guests. www.dbg.org.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE DESSERT CHALLENGE Feb. 1-28, Various Valley restaurants More than a dozen Arizona restaurants are taking part in this year’s Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge for the Girl Scouts– Arizona Cactus-Pine Council. Valley chefs will re-imagine one of the six beloved brands of Girl Scout cookies—Do-Si-Dos, Tagalongs, Samoas, Savannah Smiles, Trefoils or Thin Mints—into a custom dessert menu item.

The chefs selected their cookie flavor via a random drawing, and will feature the dessert on their menu throughout February, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the transformation of the organization’s Camp Sombrero. For a list of participating restaurants, visit www.girlscoutsaz.org/ dessertchallenge.

BLOCKBUSTER BROADWAY WITH STEPHEN SCHWARTZ Feb. 6-7, Orpheum Theatre Wicked, the other story of Oz, has been a Broadway fixture for more than 10 years. To what bit of magic do we owe this impressive run? None other than the musical wizardry of legendary songwriter Stephen Schwartz.

He brought audiences the Broadway hits Godspell and Pippin, and collaborated on the scores of major films, including The Prince of Egypt, Pocahontas and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The Phoenix Symphony celebrates his achievements with a blockbuster concert of his best-loved tunes.

The show will be conducted by John Clanton and feature Broadway vocalists Scott Coulter, Jessica Hendy, Kelli Rabke and Fay Ann Lee. Stephen Schwartz will join on stage, making a “wicked” guest appearance on vocals and piano. If you love the bewitching music of Wicked, you'll be defying gravity and floating on air for this rare treat with The Phoenix Symphony at the iconic Orpheum Theater.

7:30 p.m., Feb. 6; 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Feb. 7. $29-$89. www.phoenixsymphony.org.

EXPERIENCE CARNIVAL Feb. 7, Musical Instrument Museum Let the Musical Instrument Museum immerse you in the sights and sounds of Caribbean Carnival. Experience the costumes, the characters, and the vibrant musical traditions from Trinidad and Tobago, Puerto Rico, and more. At this event you can see ornate Carnival costumes, enjoy musical performances, and drop in for workshops and dancing! 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free with museum admission. www.mim.org.

THE SEASONAL TABLE Feb. 7, Desert Botanical Garden What could be a better backdrop for a dinner party than the Desert Botanical Garden? The Seasonal Table is held in special Garden locations, with all locations offering a natural and serene ambiance for attendees. After a welcome drink and hors d'oeuvres, guests dine on a four-course dinner of fresh, locally sourced seasonal cuisine. Each course will have wine as a special ingredient within the food, as well as will be carefully paired with a featured wine.

DANCING WITH THE STARS LIVE! Feb. 8, Comerica Theatre Can't get enough of watching your favorite celebs perform on Dancing With The Stars?

Fear not, because they are performing here... live! That is right, Dancing with the Stars Live! takes the Comerica Stage for one night only in Phoenix. Watch your favorite dancers perform ballroom, salsa, and jazz pieces right before your very eyes. $28-$63. 4 and 8 p.m. www.comericatheatre.com.

NEW YORK POLYPHONY Feb. 8, Musical Instrument Museum Four men, with four varying voices, create one powerful concert. Regarded as one of the finest vocal chamber ensembles in the world, 2013 Grammy nominee New York Polyphony applies a distinctively modern touch to a repertoire that ranges from medieval melodies to cutting-edge contemporary compositions.

Arizona Musicfest co-presents this concert with the Musical Instrument Museum. 3 p.m. $47.50-$57.50. www.mim.org.

FEBRUARY CALENDAR WRITTEN AND COMPILED

BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE

World Championship Hoop Dance Contest Feb. 7-8, Heard Museum

This event showcases a unique sport.

Prepare for stunning performances from the men and women who are vying to call themselves the World Champion Hoop Dancer. The event combines artistry, sheer athleticism, and cultural traditions to create an exciting, colorful, and suspenseful competition. $7.50-$18. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. www.heard.org.

UPTOWN |

52

| FEBRUARY 2015

NE-YO Feb. 12, Celebrity Theatre His creamy voice has won over the hearts of Americans, especially his ability to make audiences swoon with his love ballads.

Ne-Yo is an American R&B singer, record producer, dancer and actor. He gained fame for his song-writing abilities when he penned the 2004 hit “Let Me Love You” for singer Mario. This multifaceted musical genius will perform at Phoenix's own Celebrity Theatre.

8:30 p.m. $56-$86. www.celebritytheatre. com.

NAPOLI Feb. 12-15, Symphony Hall Ballet Arizona presents the U.S. premiere of one of the most renowned ballets by legendary ballet choreographer August Bournonville. Napoli is the festive and uplifting story of Gennaro, a poor fisherman, and his beloved Teresina. Teresina is washed away in a great storm, only to be rescued by sea nymphs ruled by an evil sea spirit. The couple’s love must overcome trials and temptations so that light prevails over darkness in the best tradition of Romanticism. The Phoenix Symphony will play the score for this enchanting ballet.

7 p.m., Feb. 12; 7:30 p.m., Feb. 13; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Feb. 14; and 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., Feb. 15. $25-$158. www.balletaz.org.

THE SWINGTIPS Feb. 13, Desert Botanical Garden As part of the Garden's 2015 Spring Concert Series, The Swingtips perform knee-slappin', foot-tappin' upbeat tunes from 7-9 p.m. at the Garden's Ullman Terrace. Enjoy the cool

do joke or two with Valley audiences. 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. $35. www.standuplive.com.

SOARING FOR SWEETHEARTS Feb. 15, Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate love than by donating to local charities and community outreach programs, like Camp Soaring Eagle? The Soaring for Sweethearts Gala will feature live comedy entertainment, a silent auction, and a live dollar auction. Guests will also enjoy tantalizing treats and beverages throughout the evening. All of the proceeds will be donated to Camp Soaring Eagle, a local program that provides the healing power of laughter to thousands of seriously ill children by giving them the opportunity to go to a medically supervised camp at no cost to the campers and families. 6-9 p.m. $25. www.soaringforsweethearts.weebly.com.

Nuvo Mundo Feb. 27, Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden will once again be filled with music as Novo Mundo takes the stage during the Garden’s Music in the Garden series. Offering a mix of jazz fused with Brazilian sounds, Nuvo Mundo’s salsa, bossa nova, and samba beats are sure to get you up on your feet. $7:30 p.m. $25. www.dbg.org. spring air, the lovely scents of the Botanical Garden, and the sounds of one of the best swing groups in town. Having performed at a variety of venues, The Swingtips know how to entertain a crowd and get everybody up on their feet. $25. www.dbg.org.

participate in hands-on activities and problem-solving challenges, and sharpen your observational skills through drawing exercises. “What would da Vinci do?” Here is your opportunity to find out. Noon. Free with museum admission. www.phxart.org.

THE 25TH ANNUAL CHINESE WEEK Feb. 13-15, Margaret T. Hance Park The 25th Annual Chinese Week celebrates the Chinese New Year 4713, “The Year of the Ram,” with cultural and educational events. Guests will enjoy everything from Chinese cuisine to live entertainment, including the dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations to folk and traditional dances, musical performances to a history booth and from art displays to so much more. The fun begins Feb. 13 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Feb. 14, and 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. on Feb. 15. Delve into Chinese culture with the 25th Annual Chinese Week. www. phoenixchineseweek.org.

DEMETRI MARTIN–THE PERSISTENCE OF JOKES Feb. 15, Stand Up Live Demetri Martin rose from relative obscurity when he started doing stand-up comedy in New York City at the end of the 20th century. Later he became a writer at Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and then a regular performer on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. He released a comedy album called These Are Jokes, and then created and starred in his own television series called Important Things with Demetri Martin.

His first book, This Is a Book by Demetri Martin, is a New York Times bestseller.

Martin is known for being an unconventional stand-up comic. His jokes are accompanied with music played on an array of instruments like the harmonica and guitar, to name a few.

And yes, Martin plays the music. Don’t miss out as this unconventional comic cracks a

THINK LIKE LEONARDO! Feb. 14-15, Phoenix Art Museum Engage your brain like Leonardo–talk with experts in the sciences and arts about how the Codex is relevant to them today,

FEBRUARY 2015 |

53

| UPTOWN

LAST SLINGER STANDING CONTEST Feb. 16, Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour As part of the 4th Annual Arizona Cocktail Week, the Last Slinger Standing Contest welcomes 15 of the finest bartenders across Arizona, Colorado and Nevada, as they compete in the premier bartending competition of the Southwest. The final lineup was determined after months of in-state competitions organized by the local United States Bartender’s Guild chapters to determine each state’s top mixologists.

Hosted at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour, competitors will go head-to-head in this fastpaced “winner takes all” competition full of twists, turns and curve balls, as bartenders try and make the best cocktail using secret ingredients and challenges. So, who will be the Last Slinger Standing? Time TBD. www.arizonacocktailweek.com.

POETRY CENTER IN PHOENIX: FADY JOUDAH Feb. 18, Phoenix Art Museum Are you a Terry Tempest Williams fan? Or, perhaps Emily Dickinson is your favorite? If poetry strikes your fancy, join the Phoenix Art Museum as it welcomes acclaimed poet and translator, Fady Joudah. Joudah will read from his most recent collection, Alright and Textu. Celebrate poetry with the acclaimed poet himself. 7 p.m. www.phxart.org.

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE’S 78TH ANNUAL RUMMAGE SALE Feb. 21, Arizona State Fair Exhibition Building Each year, for 78 years, The Junior League of Phoenix hosts the largest indoor garage sale to help generate much-needed funding for nonprofit programs supported by the League.

This garage sale is a savvy shopper's haven, offering unbeatable prices on new and used treasures. Doors open at 8 a.m. (but the line starts at 6:30 a.m.) Find outstanding deals in various departments like furniture, arts, lawn/ garden, clothing, electronics, jewelry... the list goes on and on! All proceeds from the sale benefit local community programs and training sponsored by The Junior League of Phoenix.

Happy rummaging! Morning admission is $5; free in the afternoon. www.jlp.org.

event

THE PARTY 2015

Get ready for a ‘Warholesque’ experience

BY JENNIFER PARKS

I

f you ever wanted to attend a party with Andy Warhol, but never got the chance, you could say the pARTy 2015, Phoenix Art Museum’s biggest fundraiser of the year, may be your perfect chance.

Chaired by the always stylish sisters behind My Sister’s Closet, Tess Loo and Ann Siner, the sisterly duo have joined forces with fellow philanthropist Cheryl Londen of Londen Insurance Group to throw the pARTy, featuring the Andy Warhol: Portraits exhibition.

If You Go…

WHAT: The pARTy 2015 WHEN: Feb. 28 WHERE: Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix TICKETS: $750 INFORMATION: www.phxart.org/ theparty or 602.257.2101

Photo by Darrylee Cohen

Held at the Phoenix Art Museum and offering the first glimpse of the museum’s Andy Warhol: Portraits exhibit, the pARTy chairs promise a Warhol-inspired evening filled with an over-the-top New Yorkstyle social scene, with contemporary cuisine, disco dancing, mod cocktails, a fashion collaboration with Neiman Marcus, along with many more surprises throughout the evening.

“We’ve thought of everything from go-go inspired dancers to the extra art you’ll see displayed at the event, to even how you’ll enter the pARTy,” says Loo, chief fashion stylist for My Sister’s Closet. “The entire evening will feel ‘Warholesque’ and UPTOWN |

54

| FEBRUARY 2015

Marilyn, ca. 1967

will constantly surprise you.”

More than 25 years after his death, Andy Warhol remains undeniably one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.

Phoenix Art Museum presents Andy Warhol: Portraits, an exhibit organized by and featuring original works from The Andy Warhol Museum, one of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, from March 4-June 21.

“Andy Warhol is an icon, and his portraits, paintings and drawings are still an inspiration for many of us in the fashion industry today,” says Siner. “We want this night to be a celebration of his works and also the biggest pARTy to kick off the only Warhol exhibit of its kind in the Southwest.”

For those fashionistas in the crowd, Akris will be the featured designer of the pARTy, thanks to the fashion show and collaboration with Neiman Marcus.

And, there’s no need to bring your wallet to this event. There will be nothing to bid on at this one, just admiration for Warhol’s art.

Proceeds from the annual fundraiser will support the Phoenix Art Museum’s exhibits and programs.

PHOTO BY ROSE TORRES

out

F

ebruary 14. It comes around once a year, and each year, couples spend hours trying to plan out the perfect ways to celebrate together, from where to eat to places to go. All throughout Phoenix there are plenty of ideas for all sorts of ways to spend Valentine’s Day.

A Cultural Date If you’re looking to check out some fine arts this Valentine’s Day, why not spend your time with Scorpius Dance Theatre?

The group will be bringing back its popular show, An Unusual Love Story, David+Lisa.

Originally staged in 2008, Scorpius Dance Theatre is once again producing this story that tells the tale of two young adults who meet while in a treatment center for mental and psychological issues, and after a series of events, a love story unfolds.

The show runs Feb. 12-14 (show times vary). $30. Purchase tickets via phone at 602.254.2151 or online at www.scorpiusdance.com/shows. The show will be performed at the Hormel Theatre at Phoenix Theatre, 100 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix.

A Beer-Lovers Date If you want to spend some time outdoors in the sun, why not celebrate Valentine’s Day and Arizona Beer Week at the same time? On Feb. 14, the Arizona Strong Beer Festival, presented by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, will be held at Steele Indian School Park (300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix). General admission is $45 per person ($10 for designated drivers).

VIP admission is also available. In addition to beer, there will also be food, a DJ, and Strong Man Games. $75 presale. 21 and over, only. www.arizonabeerweek.com/ strong-beer-festival.

A Foodie Date If you would like to check out a romantic spot for a great meal, try T. Cooks at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa. The Mediterranean-themed restaurant is by far one of the most romantic in the area.

With its variety of beautifully prepared dishes and even more fabulous desserts, T. Cooks is one of the hottest spots this time of year. 5200 E. Camelback Road,

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Find the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day

BY GRETCHEN PAHIA

Phoenix; 602.808.0766; www.royalpalmsresortandspa.com. Want a do-it-yourself experience? Chef James Monaci from Luci’s Healthy Marketplace is offering a class on the art of making Valentine’s Day desserts. Learn how to make your own Italian Bread Pudding and Truffle Tarts. The class runs from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. on Feb. 13. $49.99 (wine included), 1590 E. Bethany Home Road, Phoenix; 602.773.1339.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

55

| UPTOWN

An Adventure-Filled Date You can hike one of the nearby mountains or take a long bike ride, or, why not get a bird’s-eye view of the Valley with a hot air balloon ride? Several companies also offer champagne toasts with your ride, and some offer chef-cooked meals, as well.

A few local companies include Hot Air Expeditions, 480.502.6999; www.hotairexpeditions.com, and Float Balloon Tours, 480.256.8695; www.floatballoontours.com.

Need more inspiration? Why not try to recreate your first date? Or visit one of the Valley’s many museums? Or stay in and cook a romantic meal together?

However you decide to celebrate, if you’re heading out, don’t forget the reservations—spots fill up fast.

cuisine

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO BE A CHEF?

When I was a small child, my mother was a great cook! She could interpret recipe photos and make fabulous custom versions.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT DIFFERENT POINTE OF VIEW?

The autonomy to be creative and complement the excellent reputation of the restaurant is fantastic.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MENU ITEM?

It is always the one I am working on creating! The Chocolate & Balsamic Cherry Financiere—yum!

YOU’RE PARTICIPATING IN THE GIRL SCOUT COOKIE CHALLENGE—WHAT IS YOUR CREATION?

"Respect a Legacy" with milk chocolate peanut butter cheesecake and Tagalong ice cream.

WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION FOR THIS DESSERT?

The Tagalong ice cream is a perfect accompaniment to the cheesecake!

IF YOU WEREN’T A CHEF, YOU’D PROBABLY BE...

A botanist or a jockey!

A Different Pointe of View (11111 N. 7th St, Phoenix; 602.866.6350; www.tapatiocliffshilton. com) is located at the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort. The restaurant is one of more than 30 restaurants Valleywide participating in the Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge, which runs Feb. 1-28. Each restaurant re-imagines one of the beloved flavors of Girl Scout cookies into a custom dessert menu item. A portion of the proceeds from the dessert will benefit the transformation of the local Council’s Camp Sombrero to The Leadership Center for Girls and Women. www.girlscoutaz.org/dessertchallenge.

CHEF CONVERSATIONS In the kitchen with Lara Coleman, the executive pastry chef at Different Pointe of View

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTO BY CARL SCHULTZ

UPTOWN |

56

| FEBRUARY 2015

cheers

TOTALLY TIKI The Crazy Eights is a fun, playful, yet totally serious cocktail

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

W

Photo courtesy of Bar Crudo

hen Bar Crudo bartender Clint Spotleson created the drink Crazy Eights, he knew what he was trying for. Inspired by the tiki drink Three Dots and a Dash, he wanted it to be similar, but “to be Galliano heavy to really bring out the herbs and vanilla in it,” explains Micah Olson, owner of Bar Crudo, and half of the Crudo duo (the other half is Chef Cullen Campbell of Crudo).

“And, Crudo in Morse code would be eight dashes and eight dots, so crazy eights was formed. Crazy 8's is also one of my favorite childhood games,” he adds.

The cocktail ($12), which is a limited edition and only available until Feb. 21, is a spicy yet well-balanced blend of Bacardi 8 Rum, Smith & Cross Rum, Galliano, lime, orange, honey, falernum and allspice dram.

What to pair this allspice and rumspiked drink with? Olson suggests the Crespelle, which is made with mushroom sugo, ricotta and pears; the Ricotta with walnut sauce and honey; or the Albacore Crudo with persimmon, apple and truffle.

“It's tropical, it's tiki, and it comes in an awesome tiki mug,” Olson says of the drink. “It's meant to be playful yet there is still quite a bit of booze in it.”

And seriously—how can you go wrong with a drink that’s served in that mug?

3603 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix; 602.358.8666; www.crudoaz.com.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

57

| UPTOWN

dwell

SERVING UP LOVE

Making a fancy Valentine’s Day dinner? These pretty serving items are the perfect frames for your food

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN PHOTOS BY BRIAN R. SMITH ITEMS COORDINATED BY SAMANTHA LAPID

(From top, clockwise) Hex medium bowl in copper, Eclectic by Tom Dixon, $140 at Saks Fifth Avenue, 602.955.8000.

Scoop server, Nambé designed by Wei Young, $250 at Nambé, 480.483.0664.

Marble and wood board, West Elm, $39.95 at West Elm, 480.948.1950.

Condiment trio handmade slant bowls product no. 105, Sparq Home, $45 at Nordstrom, 480.946.4111.

Serving platter, $48 and server, $18.95, Fairly Normal, both at Two Plates Full, 480.443.3241.

Ikat bowls, West Elm, $8 each, at West Elm. UPTOWN |

58

| FEBRUARY 2015

shop

s t y le

a llur e

h a u t e pr oper t y

d w ell

w heels

pla ce s

want

How can you go wrong with a company whose products are known as The World’s Best Massage Chairs®? And this model, the DreamWave®, is Inada’s top offering. The chair combines shiatsu massage with 100-plus air cell compressions, and offers more than 1,200 square inches of body coverage—the most of any massage chair on the market, according to the company. DreamWave automatically scans and records the profile of the user’s back, then compares this measurement to a stored database of 106 individual body types. Then, Inada’s technology selects a DreamWave pre-programmed massage specifically for the user. Relaxed yet? $8,499 at Relax the Back, 480.483.0818; Allstate Appliance, 480.948.9896; and Artisan Cinema & Sound, 480.538.1071.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

59

| UPTOWN

shop

WOW YOUR DATE Statement items that make a big impact

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOS BY BRIAN R. SMITH | ITEMS COORDINATED BY SAMANTHA LAPID

(Clockwise from top) Dress Up Black dress with sparkle and pearl details, Janice, $129 at Classy-Jazzy Cutique, 480.970.1894.

Scent-sational Flowerbomb 3.4 fl. oz. eau de parfum spray, Viktor & Rolf, $180 at Nordstrom.

Neck Candy Chiffon skull scarf, Alexander McQueen, $295 at Nordstrom, 480.946.4111.

Pop of Color “Schiap” nail polish, Nars, $20, and “Schiap” lipstick, Nars, $26, at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Orange You Glad?

Handmade necklace with turquoise and sterling silver, $495 at Sunrise Gallery, 480.425.9944.

In the Bag Green “Birkin” handbag, Hermès, $18,000 at To Be Continued… A Consignment Boutique, 480.699.2700.

UPTOWN |

60

| FEBRUARY 2015

Sparkle Fun “Nudist” shoes in platinum nior, Stuart Weitzman, $398 at Saks Fifth Avenue, 602.955.8000.

shop

BE SQUARE

Pocket squares help you take a suit from drab to fab

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTO BY BRIAN R. SMITH | ITEMS COORDINATED BY SAMANTHA LAPID

(Clockwise from top) Blue and orange striped wool, Suitsupply, $45 at Suitsupply, 602.338.9200.

Green linen, Breuer, $45 at Carter’s Men’s Clothing, 602.952.8646.

Orange and purple paisley silk, Robert Talbott, $50 at Carter’s Men’s Clothing.

Gold, purple and red patterned silk, Robert Talbott, $50 at Carter’s Men’s Clothing.

Purple, green and white silk, M, $38.50 at Saks Fifth Avenue, 602.955.8000.

Reversible blue and red paisley or red and white silk, Saks Fifth Avenue, $27.20 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Blue and tan link pattern cotton and silk, Suitsupply, $45 at Suitsupply.

Plum, pink and orange silk, Ted Baker London, $49.50 at Nordstrom, 480.946.4111.

Gray and maroon polka dot wool, Suitsupply, $45 at Suitsupply.

Green and blue flower and paisley silk, J. Z. Richards, $39.50 at Nordstrom.

Brown and blue silk, Ermengegildo Zegna, $100 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

61

| UPTOWN

allure

COLOR CRUSH: MARSALA

Cheeks: Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush Palette. Create a luminous, multidimensional glow with this limited-edition blush palette.

A compilation of three handmade powders, each is mixed to achieve the perfect buildable balance of pigment and powder. $58 at www.hourglasscosmetics.com.

Beauty picks inspired by the color of the year

Lips: Sephora + Pantone Universe, Pure Marsala Matte Lip Creme. Infused with resveratrol, an anti-aging ingredient derived from red grapes, this limitededition lipstick delivers a matte satin finish that rivals the lasting power of a lip stain. $18 at Sephora, 480.991.0915.

BY LISA KASANICKY

E

ach year, the Pantone color experts send a proclamation across the land that defines the prevailing palette for fashion, beauty and home design. They gaze into their rainbow-hued crystal ball for a color that captures the mood and flavor of the global temperament. The year 2014 was blanketed in the distinctly feminine color of radiant orchid. For 2015, they chose a color that blends feminine and masculine energies and is both robust and earthy, dramatic and sultry. Meet Pantone 18-1438 Marsala, and prepare for a year that encourages color creativity and burns with warm sophistication.

In the beauty department, marsala pairs harmoniously with monochromatic mixes of peachy pinks and antiqued gold metallics. Flattering against most skin tones, the rich color brings a warmth to cheeks and lips, a sophisticated finish to nails, and a sultry depth to eyes. The tawny wine shade is also an alluring color for brunettes, as high or lowlights to add depth to hair color. Make marsala part of your beauty palette with these captivating product picks.

“Marsala enriches our mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability. Marsala is a subtly seductive shade, one that draws us in to its embracing warmth.”—Leatrice Eiseman, executive director, Pantone Color Institute

Nails: Christian Louboutin Beaute Nail Colour, Simple Nude. This highly pigmented, luxe polish leaves nails with high-gloss color in just one coat, while two coats create the layered effect of traditional nail lacquer. Inspired by calligraphy and paintbrushes, the sculpted cap allows for an artistic experience with each swipe. $50 at Neiman Marcus, 480.990.2100.

Eyes: Stila Eyes Are the Window Shadow Palettes, Spirit. Play up your eyes with this carefully curated collection of 12 luxury shadows, ranging from soft shades to smoky hues. Each palette comes with a look book curated by Sarah Lucero, Stila’s global executive director of creative artistry. $49 at Sephora, 480.991.0915.

Our resident spa and beauty maven Lisa Kasanicky is founder of AZSpaGirls.com and author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Girlfriend Getaways.

UPTOWN |

62

| FEBRUARY 2015

Permanent makeup perfect for every age!

20’s, 30’s, 40’s

50’s

60+

Being a blue eyed blond I was worried that my eyebrows would look done but Rachell has been custom blending her own colors for each person for over twenty years so I trusted her to get the right shade and shape. I love the arch she gave me! It was like getting an instant lift! I get so many compliments on how my eyeliner enhances my lash line and makes my blue eyes just pop! But it still looks super natural!

—Tina Clemmons President/Owner De Novo Scan, Clinical Thermography

I am a breast cancer survivor and my Doctor trusts her patients to Rachell for the final phase of Breasthetics (3-d nipple tattoo and areola restoration) after breast cancer.

My tatas are gorgeous thanks to Rachell!

After that I totally trusted her to do my eyeliner, which I loved, so then I even did my Eyebrows and Lips!

—Ellen Elson Realtor/Luxury Private Listings

I was most impressed with Rachell’s conservative approach to permanent makeup, she really stresses you can always add more and that made me comfortable. She is such a color genius and so experienced. I love that now I can just get up and go.

—Dawn Billings Heartlink Founder, Creator of Primary Colors Personality Test

For over 20 years Rachell Hall has eased the makeup woes of an international clientele with her exclusive perfected signature procedures. Be beautiful at breakfast and still look fresh at four! Work out or go out your permanent make up will be perfect! Save time with any procedure. Always natural, always pretty, always perfect. Don't you deserve wash and wear beauty?

• Powder soft eyebrows create the illusion of fullness, frame your eyes with the perfect arch, and of course save all that time in the morning!

• Smokey eyeliner, never smears, enhances your lash line and eliminates daily tugging at delicate eye tissue • Custom contoured lips- naturally full and blushed lips with contour and colors blended just for you!

• Restores lip fullness without the "duck lip effect" and eliminates lipstick bleeding into fine lines • Breasthetics, 3-d nipple areola restoration post mastectomy

The B E Holid ST Gift E ay Makin ver! g life sim her beaut ply iful.

"My motto is Classic Beauty, nothing trendy. Nobody wants to look like they had their makeup tattooed on! That’s why all my signature treatments are designed to look soft and natural. Remember you can always add more! My clients never wake up Wednesday morning with Saturday night makeup!

Classy, classic and conservative is my specialty look.

REFERRED BY THE VALLEY'S FINEST PLASTIC SURGEONS AND ESTHETICIANS

480.368.9239

Make your life simply beautiful!

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION 10613 North Hayden Road, Ste J-103 | Scottsdale, AZ 85260 | www.RachellHall.com

DRESS: Blue and teal ombre maxi dress, Young Fabulous & Broke, $49.99 at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

FROM DESIGNER WEAR TO EVERYDAY ITEMS, THERE ARE FABULOUS FINDS

PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ | STYLING BY STACEY RICHMAN AND SAMANTHA LAPID HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LORRI GREGORY, TWO BY TWO HAIR & MAKEUP ARTISTRY | MODELS FROM THE AGENCY ARIZONA

UPTOWN |

64

| FEBRUARY 2015

DRESS: Black lace fitted dress, Free People, $34.99. BRACELETS: Black and gold bangle set, $17.99. SHOES: Black suede platform Mary Jane heels, $99.99. HANDBAG: Black quilted handbag, Chanel, $1,800. All at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

65

| UPTOWN

DRESS: Fire orange one-shoulder dress, Nicole Miller, $49.99. SHOES: Brown patent woven wedges, Valentino, $119.99. Both at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

UPTOWN |

66

| FEBRUARY 2015

TOP: White button-down blouse, Michael by Michael Kors, $23.99.

BELT: Brown belt with chain buckle, Gucci, $89.99. PANTS: Gold cropped pants, J Brand, $29.99. SHOES: Ivory wedges, Tory Burch, $149.99. HANDBAG: Brown oversized handbag with bamboo handle, Gucci by Tom Ford, $1,000. All at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

ROMPER: Denim romper, Trina Turk, $29.99.

SHOES: Red and blue striped espadrille wedges, $79.99. Both at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

UPTOWN |

68

| FEBRUARY 2015

TOP: Fuchsia blouse, Alice and Olivia, $34.99. PANTS: Brown skinny pants, J Brand, $29.99. HANDBAG: “Damier” print oversized bag, Louis Vuitton, $1.200.

All at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

69

| UPTOWN

DRESS: Printed shift dress, Diane von Furstenberg, $89.99. BRACELET: Wide link bracelet, David Yurman, $700. RING: Prasiolite and diamond sterling silver ring, David Yurman, $700. BAG: Neon pink studded side body bag, Rebecca Minkoff, $89.99. SHOES: Teal suede wedges, Prada, $49.99.

All at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

UPTOWN |

70

| FEBRUARY 2015

DRESS: Black embellished zip-up dress, Nanette Lepore, $44.95.

SHOES: Black wooden heels, Jimmy Choo, $279.99. HANDBAG: Black “New Moon” handbag, Gucci, $700. All at Urban Exchange, 480.948.6343.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

71

| UPTOWN

Christy Brown and Andi Lawrence

Lori Krenzen

Mary Wilber

Phoenix Empowerment Luncheon & Conversation PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

Held at the Irish Cultural Center, this YWCA Women’s Empowerment Series event featured guests Justice Ruth V. McGregor & Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. Attendees toured the Sandra Day O’Connor Exhibit in McClelland Irish Library, “The Cowgirl Who Became a Justice,” before enjoying lunch and a program.

Kathleen Peachman and Catherine Scrivano

Elizabeth Muncal and Louise Liggett

Jeanette Goseyun and Alicia Neal

Angela Hallier and Paula Wicherman

Ruth McGregor and Sandra Day O’Connor

Yolie Aleman-Rodriguez and London Burns UPTOWN |

72

| FEBRUARY 2015

Franci Fealk and Jennifer Koeller

Pat and Regina Edwards

Esperanza Martinez and Jessica Hamel

BOGO FREE WHEN YOU BRING A FRIEND

Valid through February 2015. New Clients Only.

NEW YEAR. NEW YOU.

At Bauman’s, we take fitness to the Xtreme. From strength training to martial arts to cardio fitness, no class is the same – not to mention our determined, supportive group environment and nutritional services. We’ll make your best better.

NW corner of Scottsdale Rd. & Lincoln.

602-418-1792 | baumansxtremetraining.com

JUST

because..

Jessica Meyer and Caroline Woodiel

YOU’RE

sexy

AT ANY AGE

BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY

800.352.7664 D O W N T O W N

Jill Mapstead and Kathy Jacklin

T E M P E

W W W . C E L E B R A T E Y O U R S E X Y . C O M

FEBRUARY 2015 |

73

| UPTOWN

Bruce Haffner

Frankie Muniz

Brittany Mate and Alex Villagran

44th Annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

Amy Gray and Don Rogers

Guests at this year’s Barrett-Jackson auto auction once again were treated to an incredible array of automobiles across the auction block, including the sale of the Ron Pratte Collection.

There was also a gala, memorabilia, and concerts, including one by country music artists Rodney Atkins and Thompson Square.

Aynsley Grove and Jason Flis

Tracy Fitzgerald and Rosalyn Kleiman

Miranda South and Mediya Pineda

Melissa Pronovost and Brooke White

Claudia and Hugo Rodriguez

Tyler Foisy and Larissa Gonzales UPTOWN |

Tom Bradburn and Shea Castro

74

| FEBRUARY 2015

Toni Cornish and Leann Riley

Corinne Floyd and Barbara Lack Dave and Julie Loggins

Kim and Rich Gilbert

Arizona Concours d’Elegance PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

This event offered an intimate display of exceptional vintage automobiles, displayed on the inner lawns of the Biltmore Resort. The event featured 20 judged classes, with John Carlson once again serving as chief judge. The event benefited Make-A-Wish Arizona.

Al and Renee Molina

Michael and Jennifer Collins

Who said self obsession is wrong?

Love thyself.

Come to ‘Ohana Salon & Spa so we can pamper you this Valentine’s Day!

480.945.2711

www.ohanasalonspa.com 6870 East 5th Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251 FEBRUARY 2015 |

75

| UPTOWN

Tenille Brice and Lori Helmer

Bonnie Martin and Anita Patterson Drs. Jim and Julie Carland

Barrow Grand Ball PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

This legendary black-tie gala was held at the Arizona Biltmore. Guests enjoyed dinner and dancing. The event by the Women’s Board of Barrow Neurological Foundation raises funds for Barrow Neurological Institute.

Pam and Jim Risoleo

Krysta Henderson and Autumn Henderson

Mark and Gracia Oppenlander

Tara kimzey and Kim Migliorino

Christine Gustafson and Erika Dickey

Shelly Nelson and Julie Parke Jones

Paul and Rebecca Boca UPTOWN |

76

| FEBRUARY 2015

Janice Almefty and Effie Theodore

YOUR DREAM COME TRU! Andrea Clement and Loraine Simons

Marie Hoover and Hilda Bourdamis

Classy-Jazzy Cutique’s Read Your Colors, See Your Future PHOTOS BY CARL SCHULTZ

Laura Pendergraft and Misha Mendocino

Misha Mendicino, owner of Misha Mendicino Designs & Designer of the Year from Phoenix Fashion Week 2014, was on hand at this event, which also featured complimentary color consultations, psychic readings, antiaging product demos, and the store’s latest fashion collections.

Enriching the Lives of Families in Arcadia, Biltmore and the Central Corridor One Home at a Time. Be Tru… Buy Tru!!!

www.buytru.com (480) 327-6700

February Bridal Special

Jim Bourdamis and Janice Laduca

www.photosbyleanna.com

Mention this ad to receive a FREE Bridal consultation

Lindsay and Tiffany Bucher

Two by Two Hair & Makeup Artistry

623.521.5934

3939 E. Campbell, Phoenix, 85018 Sharon Ryan and Vicky Shiya

Located inside Dylan’s Salon

Sue Guido and Janice Pendergraft

www.salontwobytwo.com FEBRUARY 2015 |

77

| UPTOWN

drink

A

ll too often, when one thinks of “rum,” several things come to mind: Captain Morgan poses, Johnny Depp as a drunken Captain Jack Sparrow, and/or Rum and Coke-fueled memories of drinking on the cheap in college.

“Believe it or not, the actual stories of Captain Morgan don’t even mention rum, and (sorry, ladies) Captain Jack Sparrow is a 100 percent fictional character,” says Sarah Spear, the “Rum Princesa” at Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar by Richard Sandoval.

Because the majority of the world’s rum production occurs—and has historically occurred—in the Caribbean and Latin America, the spirit is often associated with sailors and pirates. But today, rum is also produced in Austria, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Mexico, Hawaii, the Philippines, India, Reunion Island, Mauritius, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Japan, the United States, and Canada.

“And while rum can certainly be obtained on the cheap for the local frat party, good rum is a transcendent spirit on its own and a crucial building block to many of the highest-end cocktails worldwide,” says Spear, whose Toro boasts both rum-tasting flights and 111 varietals to choose from (the most in the Valley!).

Among the most exclusive is the Appleton 50-Year Rum, which is $250 per ounce. Crafted in 1962 to celebrate Jamaica’s full independence from Britain, barrels were set aside to age with the intention of bottling the rums decades later in celebration of the country’s 50th independence anniversary.

Ready to try some of the rums that are redefining the category from across the globe? Our picks include these.

DICTATOR 12 YEAR RUM Region: Columbia Characteristics: Nose consisting of coffee, honey, toffee, and oak. Aged using the Solera method, which involves mixing barrels of different ages in order to obtain better development of flavor. Soft and round mouth feel with a truly unique balance of caramel, cocoa, honey, and low oak.

Cost: $40-$50

IT’S A RUM-DERFUL LIFE

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

GOSLING’S OLD RUM Region: Bermuda Characteristics: Also called “Gosling's Family Reserve,” this is a Bermuda black rum made of the same blend used for Black Seal rum, and then is aged longer for a full character.

Cost: $70-$80

BACARDI RESERVA LIMITADA Region: Puerto Rico Characteristics: Made from rums that have been mellowed in lightly charred American oak rested for 10 to 16 years.

Rich taste and velvety finish.

Cost: $90-$100 UPTOWN |

78

| FEBRUARY 2015

RON ZACAPA RUM XO Region: Guatemala Characteristics: Aged in a combination of bourbon, delicate sherry and Pedro Ximenez wine casks to create a unique depth of flavor and character. After three years, the used barrels are emptied and then recharred to give the rum a sweeter flavor from the newly charred wood.

Cost: $95-$110

RON ABUELO CENTURIA Region: Panama Characteristics: Molasses-based rum aged 30 years in used whisky and bourbon barrels and developed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the family estate. Sweet aromas of oak, vanilla, spice and dark fruit while remaining full-bodied. Boasts 97 points from Wine Enthusiast.

Cost: $140-$160

f ood f ile s

dr ink

dining guide

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

Who wouldn’t love a doughnut that is created with proprietary dough, made to order right in front of you, and has a selection of 20 glazes and 14 toppings to choose from in order to make it your own custom creation? Not many people, which is why we suggest heading over to Fractured Prune Doughnuts, which opened at CityScape in late January. The doughnut shop has been a landmark in Ocean City, Md. since 1976—and boy are we glad there is now a location here in Phoenix!

At CityScape, 50 W. Jefferson St., Ste. 100, Phoenix; www.fracturedprune.com.

FEBRUARY 2015 |

79

| UPTOWN

guide

BY TARYN JEFFRIES

DINING GUIDE KEY $ $10 or less $$ Up to $30 $$$ Up to $60 $$$$ Over $60

Approximate price a meal for one person, with drink, tax + tip.

NOTE: Restaurants are randomly selected from a rotating master list. While the information about each restaurant is routinely checked, changes can occur.

Please confirm all information, and we solicit your help in correcting any errors found in this guide. If you wish to have your restaurant considered for inclusion in this directory or have any corrections for this list, please email michelle@richmanmediagroup.com.

AMERICAN

ARMADILLO GRILL This neighborhood eatery is a great place to catch your favorite sports game, from football to horseraces—they have 25-plus TVs. Their “Munchies Menu” includes delectable fried pickles that you can order regular or Cajun-style, and which make a perfect accompaniment to watching the game. Their entrée options arrive in generous portions, and their Black & Tan Steak is a beer and onion lover’s dream. 1904 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.287.0700; www.myarmadillogrill.com; $ BERTHA’S CAFÉ Whether you wander in to catch breakfast or lunch, you are assured to be greeted with a smile and a meal so good that you’ll be telling all your friends. The breakfast and lunch options are pretty complete with all the dishes that you would expect to find, as well as a few that will surprise you. If you’re headed in for lunch, make sure to go for their ½ and ½ special to try a great soup and sandwich combo like the Asparagus and Havarti Panini alongside one of their warming soups of the day. 3134 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix; 602.955.1022; www.berthascafe.com; $ DIFFERENT POINTE OF VIEW This restaurant is home to one of the most comprehensive views of the Valley, and is delightful at sunset. Executive Chef Anthony DeMuro creates some of the most interesting and informative dinners here. Live a little and opt for the Chef’s Tasting Menu to ensure that you can fully experience all that this restaurant has to offer. 11111 N. 7th St., Phoenix; 623.866.6350; www.tapatiocliffshilton.com/different-pointe-of-view-restaurant; $$$$ HARVEY’S WINEBURGER Harvey’s has been a local favorite for as long as I can remember. While you won’t find a lot of frills

here, you will find great burgers on the cheap.

Their famous Wineburgers are crafted with a 100 percent fresh ground beef patty and a splash of wine. They also have great daily specials that won’t break the bank. 4812 N. 16th St., Phoenix; 602.248.9950; www.harveyswineburger.com; $ HILLSTONE Rich wood and dim lighting set the tone for a romantic and exquisite dinner just as well as a business dinner. It’s not often that you find a restaurant featuring sushi right alongside burgers and barbecue ribs. The Thai Steak & Noodle Salad is one of the most notable in the Valley. 2650 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.957.9700; www.hillstone.com/hillstone; $$$ KEEGAN’S GRILL ON CAMELBACK Focused on all-American comfort foods, Keegan’s provides a welcome environment that caters to a variety of diners. Hefty burgers like their Smoked Jalapeño Bacon Burger and ample entrées like their Grilled Filet Medallion Stroganoff can cater to the pickiest of eaters. Their social hour menu is impressive as well, with discounted appetizers and even a $10 Maine lobster tail. 3114 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.955.6616; www.keegansgrill.com; $$ KITCHEN 56 Housed in a refurbished service station, the restaurant adds to the charm and kitsch of this hot spot. Catch a seat on the patio before sunset and be dazzled by the scenery while you enjoy Cornmeal Crusted Calamari or one of their six wood-fired pizzas along with any one of their signature cocktails. 3433 N. 56th St., Phoenix; 480.944.5656; www.kitchen56.com; $$ THE HENRY This neighborhood hot spot is the perfect location for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Industrial and classic décor influences the entire feel of the space, creating a warm and energetic environment.

Straightforward and generous menu offerings, from beef burgers to perfectly seared steaks, make this your new home away from home— without any pesky clean-up! 4455 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.429.8020; www.foxrc.com/ restaurants/the-henry; $$ THE MARKET BY JENNIFER’S Founded by the classically trained chef Jennifer Russo, The Market will soon become your onestop-shop for anything from a quick lunch to picking up a fully prepared dinner to serve at home.

The clean lines of the quaint café allow for the food to speak for itself, and it surely does. Opt for anything from Shrimp Po’ Boys to Chicken Schnitzel Sandwiches to dine-in on. 3603 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix; 602.626.5050; www.themarketbyjennifers.com; $$ WALLY’S AMERICAN PUB & GRILLE Amazingly, Wally’s is one of those places that pretty much covers everything. Want to catch a drink and some light pub fare at the bar? Looking for a place to take the family for some great comfort food? A date night perhaps? Anything and everything goes here. If you’re at a loss for what to order, never ever pass up the S’mac options.

5029 N. 44th St., Phoenix; 602.954.2040; www.wallyspub.com; $$

ASIAN

RICE PAPER Rice Paper is housed in what was certainly at one point a charming little house. Because of this, parking can be a little challenging, but they have created some space in the back to accommodate.

UPTOWN |

80

| FEBRUARY 2015

Once you meet the parking challenge, you will find that the décor and ambiance of this spot are well worth it. They have about 18 different types of spring rolls (both fresh and crispy styles) to match to anyone’s tastes. They also have several varieties of Pho and Banh Mi. 2221 N. 7th St., Phoenix; 602.252.3326; www.ricepapereatery.com; $$ THAI LAHNA RESTAURANT Having found success in the Valley for over 20 years as the first Thai restaurant in Phoenix, Thai Lahna has quite a following. Diners particularly enjoy the homemade chile paste that is used in many of the signatures dishes. The flavors are pronounced, and all dishes are made from scratch when you order. You have the option of selecting your desired heat level for every dish available.

Heat ranges from mild for the beginner all the way to Thai hot for those looking to sweat it out. 3738 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix; 602.955.4658; www.thailahna.com; $$ THE CLEVER KOI This modern Asian noodle and dumpling house is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. The Clever Koi has a cozy and laidback atmosphere, and all of the design touches down to the cutlery reflect the modern fusion theme. The menu is exciting and will certainly encourage diners to try something new, like the Smoked “Pig Face” dumplings. 4236 N. Central Ave., Phoenix; 602.222.3474; www.thecleverkoi.com; $$

ITALIAN

GIUSSEPE’S ON 28TH What they lack in square footage, Giuseppe’s makes up for in flavor. You’ll find authentic Italian dishes on the menu crafted with the finest ingredients; it’s pride on a plate. Once you try the Bolognese Ragu you probably won’t want to try anything else. In the event that you do, your options are varied and seemingly endless. 2824 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix; 602.381.1237; www.giuseppeson28th.com; $$ L’AMORE Expect to be greeted with a warm smile and welcoming interior at L’Amore. Fine dining with a family atmosphere is more than just a catchy tagline here. At this family-run restaurant, every diner is treated as if they were a guest in the owner’s home, from the hospitality and setting to the love in every dish. Their Chicken Saltimbocca is a lovely introduction to their menu–the flavors are stellar and the quality shines through in each bite.

3159 E. Lincoln Drive, Phoenix; 602.381.3159; www.lamoreitalianrestaurant.com; $$$ NORTH ITALIA North states that its menu and concept is a love letter to Italy, and if that’s the case, they are really, really into Italy. The dinner menu here is creative and complete with all the familiar dishes you’ve come to know and love, as well as some exciting interpretations. A local favorite is the Short Rib Gnocchi—it is the stuff dreams are made of. You’ll find it’s perfectly prepared in a decadent sauce.

4925 N. 40th St., Phoenix; 602.324.5600; www.foxrc.com/restaurants/north-italia; $$ PANE BIANCO The success of Chris Bianco’s concept restaurants are widely known throughout the Southwest, and when he introduced Pane Bianco in 2005, it was quickly added to his list of successes. This restaurant features high quality, wood-fired split focaccia sandwiches crafted with only the best local ingredients. Drop in for a hearty sandwich

guide and see what the natives have been raving about.

4404 N. Central Ave., Phoenix; 602.234.2100; www.pizzeriabianco.com/our-team; $$ POSTINO ARCADIA Postino Arcadia is only one of the three successful Postino locations. Every item on the menu is the perfect complement to its carefully selected wine list, from the charcuterie boards, their many bruschetta options, or their fresh and flavorful paninis. You have a choice of 14 different bruschettas, and you get to pick four different kinds for a single order. 3939 E. Campbell Ave., Phoenix; 602.852.3939; www.postinowinecafe.com; $$ SOLO TRATTORIA Hidden amid an upscale business complex, once you find it you will be coming back again and again. The setting is intimate and the menu is inspired by seasonal offerings. Your best bet here is to opt for the Chef‘s Tasting, and allow Chef Craig Degel to create your experience—you just decide how many courses you can handle. 2501 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.368.3680; www.soloaz.com; $$ THE PARLOR PIZZERIA Urban eating at its best! The Parlor provides all the things that you should expect—a great atmosphere, stellar food, and friendly service. The menu is heavy on pizza as the name would suggest, and contains combinations sure to please any palate, but they also have delightful pasta and salad options. The Yukon Gold pizza is a great traditional alternative that provides an earthy, comforting and unexpected taste. 1916 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.248.2480; www.theparlor.us; $$

MEDITERRANEAN

ZOE’S KITCHEN Zoe’s Kitchen offers quick and healthy dinner options with a Mediterranean flair. Stop in after a long day and enjoy a southern favorite—their Grilled Pimento Cheese Sandwich. Here you’ll find classic sandwiches and salads, as well as fresh and zesty hummus to start with. They also offer heartier entrées like a Chicken Pita Pizza, as well as kabob options. You’re sure to get a filling and healthy meal! 1641 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.263.9637; www.zoeskitchen.com; $

MEXICAN

CAFÉ RIO MEXICAN GRILL While Café Rio is a fast casual dining spot, but the flavors and friendliness of the staff is what you might expect at a high-end restaurant. You won’t find any freezers or microwaves in the kitchen, guaranteeing that all the food here is fresh daily.

You’ll find the expected Mexican fare here, but some of the tastiest dishes are their salads. They are served in a light and never greasy tortilla bowl, filled with your choice of a protein, and topped with a creamy tomatillo or cilantro lime vinaigrette.

Ay Caramba!! 2131 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.425.5380; www.caferio.com; $ JOYRIDE CENTRAL Find yourself out on a bike ride when all of a sudden a major taco craving hits? We’ve all been there! Hopefully the next time you get the urge you’re in close proximity to Joyride Central. On top of all the taco options you’ll find here (carne, cochinta pibil and ahi tuna to name a few), they have a stellar dink menu. Their motto says it all: “Ride in hungry, Ride out happy.” 5202 N. Central Ave., Phoenix; 602.274.8226; www.joyridetacohouse.com; $$

MEJICO Mejico is a charming Midtown spot offering authentic Mexican dishes like Carne Asada, Chicken Mole and Chile Verde, among others.

Their Backyard Carne Asada is just as it sounds, a delicious dish that instantly reminds you of a backyard grilling party, and is tender and full of flavor.

You’ll have this served with hot and fresh made tortillas. Mejico also has a great happy hour from 3-6 p.m., with reduced prices on their margaritas, street tacos and other appetizers. 2333 E. Osborn Road, Phoenix; 602.956.4420; $$ OTRO CAFÉ The simple design of the restaurant and its industrial feel ensure that nothing distracts from the star of the show—the food, of course! Otro Café features as many locally sourced ingredients as they can, and this shines through on every plate.

You’ll find the Al Pastor to be incredibly tender, and the meats in the Paella Mexicana are only intensified by the fresh seasonal veggies added.

6035 N. 7th St., Phoenix; 602.266.0831; www. otrocafe.com; $$ REVO BURRITO Looking for a quick spot to catch a healthy Mexican lunch? Head in to the fast casual Revo Burrito and savor its natural, healthy, and tasty take on Mexican favorites. Their hand-stretched and lardfree tortillas are the perfect base for many burrito and taco options. The Revo Ensalada Unica is a great tortilla-free option. Be sure to try their fresh squeezed old-fashioned lemonade to take the bite out of the heat. 3154 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.522.6255; www.revoburrito.com; $ ROKERIJ Small plates, appetizers, entrées; no matter what you opt for, whether it’s with an American or Mexican flair, your options here are exceptional.

Be sure to let your server know if you want a particular dish spicy or mild, as their policy is you buy it, you eat it! A great way to introduce yourself to the menu would be to order from the small plates menu; Mushroom Toast, Roasted Tri-bell Pepper Bruschetta and their Shrimp Piri Piri paired with a Prickly Pear Margarita (or two) has the makings of a great dining experience. 6335 N. 16th St., Phoenix; 602.287.8900; www.richardsonsnm.com/ rokerij; $$ TACO GUILD With tacos created in a former church there may be some divine intervention at hand in the kitchen, because the tacos served here are heavenly! You’ll find many items throughout the restaurant that are repurposed as a nod to the history of the building.

You’ll find a story in the furniture, the menu, and the service ware. You can also choose from Old World or New School tacos. You’ll find the familiar Al Pastor Pork on one side of the menu, and then a Molida Lamb taco on the other. You’ll also find that Taco Guild has a great selection for the weekend brunch and specialty cocktails. 546 E. Osborn Road, Phoenix; 602.264.4143; www.tacoguild.com; $$ URBAN TACO Tacos, burritos, and an incredible selection of salsas seem simple enough, but if you have had the offerings at Urban Taco you’ll know there is nothing simple about their creations. Where else can you get a flight of salsa? You can choose three or five of their in-house crafted salsas, like traditional pico, cucumber or avocado and garlic crema served beside their corn tortilla chips. As for tacos, you can certainly opt for the more traditional, but

FEBRUARY 2015 |

81

| UPTOWN

why not walk on the wild side? Try the Pork Belly and Potato taco or their Octopus Asada. All of the taco options are full of flavor and anything but simple. 6522 N. 16th St., Phoenix; 602.368.2708; www.urbantacos.net; $$

MODERN AMERICAN

CHELSEA’S KITCHEN Situated just off the canal, Chelsea’s Kitchen is the perfect spot to stop in to after a bike ride with the family or a quick jog. Their weekend brunch is complete with all the traditional dishes, along with some clever additions like the La Grande Orange Caesar or their New Style Crudo. Their lunch and dinner menus feature their delightfully spicy Green Chile Burger—and it’s a definite fan favorite. 5040 N. 40th St., Phoenix; 602.957.2555; www.chelseaskitchenaz.com; $$ CULINARY DROPOUT: THE YARD While you could easily pop in and out for a quick meal, this is a place where you will want to settle in and stay awhile. The restaurant is a bit quirky, but in the best sense of the word. There are a myriad of games to play while you wait for your meal (or for after you’ve already eaten). If you’re not the game-playing type, it’s a great spot for people-watching, as well. 5632 N. 7th St., Phoenix; 602.680.4040; www.culinarydropout. com; $$ THE LITTLE WOODY A little hard to find, but definitely worth your efforts, The Little Woody is one of those places where everyone feels comfortable. Whether you pop in after work for a quick bite and a drink to let go of the stresses of the day or if you want to make a night of it, you’re always welcomed warmly. After your dinner, enjoy a game or two, from foosball to skee ball. 4228 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix; 602.955.0339; $$ THE VIG UPTOWN Whether you come with friends to dine on the patio and enjoy a few drinks and a bocce game or pop into the dining room for an eclectic dinner with a great vibe, The Vig Uptown fits just about any occasion. The menu is fun and approachable, and offers options at great prices. The Frenchy is a neighborhood favorite, and their Cheesy Tater Tots are puffy little cheesy pillows of happiness. 6015 N. 16th St., Phoenix; 602.633.1187; www.thevig.us; $$

SEAFOOD

BLUEWATER GRILL Consistently fresh seafood in the Valley?

Bluewater Grill is meticulous in its standards and they refuse to serve their customers anything but the best and freshest seafood. You can taste those standards in every bite, from the Miso Glazed Coho Salmon to their San Francisco Style Cioppino. Stop by and get hooked! 1720 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix; 602.277.3474; www.bluewatergrill.com; $$ LITTLE CLEO’S SEAFOOD LEGEND Situated in The Yard, Little Cleo’s is a standout seafood restaurant in the middle of the desert.

This quant joint boasts a little ’40s flair in its décor and service approach. The fresh seafood is of the highest quality available, from the Oyster Shooters to the Monster Crab Legs. Make sure to have a little cash on hand for the valet as parking can be a little tricky. 5632 N. 7th St., Phoenix; 602.680.4044; www.littlecleos.com; $$$

new in town

F

riends Jennifer Woods and Bo Mostow decided they wanted to make a difference in their neighborhood. They’re both moms who love to cook, so they dreamed up the idea for Uptown Farmers Market, a weekly Saturday morning market.

In early January, the concept launched with a big grand opening celebration.

“We decided to launch this farmers market because we wanted to inspire and educate home cooks through local foods. We’re both moms who love to cook and are mindful about where our food is sourced,” says Woods.

So, what will you find at this new market? Local, pesticide-free and organic produce; grass-fed beef; handcrafted pantry items; local dairy; local jam; local honey; locally baked bread; and more.

In fact, there will typically be more than 60 food vendors on hand, as well as artists, activities for the kids (bounce house, anyone?), and hot made-to-order gourmet breakfast and lunch options.

Woods and Mostow are also developing an educational component for the

FOOD FEST

The Uptown Farmers Market offers local products

BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

UPTOWN |

82

| FEBRUARY 2015

market, as well as other exciting offerings.

“The goal of this market is not only to provide the community with an outlet for local foods," explains Mostow, the market manager, “but we plan to introduce an educational component to help with all the steps that come after the purchase: how to store these items; how to chop, cook or prepare; how to preserve and can. We want the home cook to get excited about using local products and building a seasonal pantry.”

The two also created a website— www.uptownmarketaz.com—for the market, which is filled with more inspiring ideas, from recipes to a journal (as well as information about each week’s event, of course!).

The market is located at the southeast corner of Central Avenue and Bethany Home Road, on the north side of the North Phoenix Baptist Church property, at 5757 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, and is open Sat. from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. from Oct.-April, and 8 am.-noon from MaySept.