Who’s The Best?
The votes are in. The people have spoken... It’s the 2017 Best of Ahwatukee!
dining & entertainment
CONTENTS
Dining & Entertainment ..................3-7 Business/Services ....................8-17, 20
FIRST PLACE
Sakana Sushi & Grill
5061 E. Elliot Road • 480-598-0506 or sakanasushiandgrill.com
SThe Best of Ahwatukee is published yearly and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Ahwatukee Foothills.
TIMES MEDIA GROUP: 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219, Tempe, Arizona, 85282
Main number: 480-898-6500
Advertising: 480-898-5624
Circulation service: 480-898-5641
PUBLISHER
Steve T. Strickbine
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Paul Maryniak, 480-898-5647, pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com
DESIGNER: Christy Byerly, 480-898-5651, cbyerly@ahwatukee.com
akana Sushi & Grill has served sushi, sake and other Japanese-style fare to Ahwatukee residents and visitors since 1994.
The chefs at Sakana serve up more than just a wide variety of sushi. They also offer noodle dishes, including udon and ramen, as well as grilled meats, salads, soups and tempura. You can ask your server to help you pair your meal with the perfect hot or cold bottle of sake.
They specialize in certified responsible, farm-raised blue fin tuna. Manager Jun Ji said customers appreciated the generous portions and good prices. Beside sushi, they also have a tapanyaki grill, as well as tempura dishes to choose from.
Sakana also provides monthly sushi classes for the budding “itamae” in your house.
SECOND PLACE
Thai Basil
4221 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-704-6013 or thaibasil.com
THIRD PLACE
Ra Sushi
Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center, 4921 E. Ray Road. 480-940-1111 or rasushi.com
FIRST PLACE
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center 4722 E. Ray Road • 480-753-1121 or nothingbundtcakes.com
Step into Nothing Bundt Cakes and you are stepping into a world of cupcakes, big and small.
This locally owned franchise has satisfied Ahwatukee sweet-teeth since 2003 with hand-made cakes in four sizes and nine flavors.
“The product is fantastic, the presentation is superb and we provide good old, hometown customer service,” said owner Rocky Ribert.
Popular for birthdays, weddings and corporate gift giving, the cakes are especially known for their variety, their moistness and 40 different designs.
And their frosting is so popular that customers can actually buy extra frosting.
In other words, don’t count calories after walking through the door.
SECOND PLACE
Perfect Pear Bistro
1241 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-248-6266 or perfectpearbistro.com
ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES: Karen Mays, 480-898-7909, kmays@ahwatukee.com
Laura Meehan, 480-898-7904 lmeehan@ahwatukee.com
CLASSIFIED:
Elaine Cota, 480-898-7926, ecota@ahwatukee.com
Kimberly James, 480-898-5652, kjames@ahwatukee.com TJ Higgins, 480-898-5902, tjhiggins@ahwatukee.com
ADVERTISING DESIGN:
Jay Banbury, Christy Byerly, Ruth Carlton, Tonya Mildenberg, Erica Odello, Michael Schieffer
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR: Courtney Oldham 480-898-5617, production@ahwatukee.com
THIRD PLACE
Yoasis
1304 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-460-1340 or theyoasis.com
REPORTERS: Becky Bracken
Mike Butler
Shelley Ridenaur
Peter Cheng Ryan Clarke
PHOTOGRAPHER: Larry Mangino, lmangino@ahwatukee.com
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR: Aaron Kolodny 480-898-5641, aaron@azintegratedmedia.com
ADVERTISING CONTENT
The content and claims of any advertisement are the sole responsibility of the advertiser. The Best of Ahwatukee assumes no responsibility for the claims or content of any advertisement. © Strickbine Publishing, Inc.
FIRST PLACE
Bleachers — a sports bar and grill — has been in business for almost a decade under the ownership of Mark Clarke.
“We’re a great place to watch sports, including live sports,” he said. “We have great coverage on our TV setups.”
With TVs lining the walls and piping hot wings and other sports-bar staples coming out of the kitchen, Bleachers has become a fixture in Ahwatukee – especially on game day and after work. Signature sandwiches, burgers and half-priced appetizers during happy hour are only part of the lure.
If you don’t want to watch TV, you can play billiards, darts and Golden Tee. And the jukebox rocks with dozens of hits.
Clarke said Super Bowl XLIII between the Cardinals and Steelers is his favorite memory at Bleachers.
“I’ve been a Cardinal fan for many years,” he said. “That was one of the best memories of the bar and the energy that was in the restaurant.”
SECOND PLACE
CK’s Tavern & Grill
4142 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-706-5564 or ckgrill.com
THIRD PLACE
The Living Room 4905 E. Ray Road 480-454-3599 or livingroomwinebar.com
Pita Jungle offers a Mediterranean menu that it says is full “of healthy, guilt-free dishes.”
It also boasts of being “an ideal happy hour locale, with plenty of shared mezze plates and cocktails available.”
Entrees such as red quinoa with jalapeño-cilantro hummus “are well-seasoned, but free of extra fatty oils and refined carbs, as are the selection of seafood and veggie-centric small pates.”
Even desserts try to be both indulgent and low calorie, like chocolatedipped walnut baklava.
SECOND PLACE
Pomegranate Café
Plaza Mountainside, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-706-7472 or pomegranatecafe.com
THIRD PLACE
Jamba Juice
4302 E. Ray Road 480-706-8500 or jambajuice.com
FIRST PLACE
Nello’s
4710 E. Warner Road • 480-893-8930 or nellospizza.com
Nello’s Ahwatukee head chef Clifford Johnson and owner Dan Mei are proud of their establishment’s recognition as Ahwatukee’s best Italian restaurant.
Over the past few years, Nello’s has modernized its menu and cooking techniques, specializing in regional Italian and American Italian food. Nello’s, a chef-driven operation, “works tirelessly on a side market menu that consistently rotates with seasonal produce,” said Johnson.
A nine-year veteran of Nello’s, he credits his staff for his success.
“Nello’s uniqueness stems from things like using non-genetically modified oil and purchasing as much local produce as possible,” Mei said, noting it’s a process they’ve adopted from their location, The Parlor Pizzeria.”
In 2016, Mei did a full remodel of Nello’s, giving the bar a new look.
In March, Nello’s is hosting a beer dinner and partnering up with Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, which Johnson said shows “Nello’s is not just a family restaurant, but a place foodies seek to eat at.”
SECOND PLACE
Spinato’s Pizzeria
4848 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-961-0208 or spinatospizzeria.com
THIRD PLACE
Va Bene Restaurant
4647 E. Chandler Blvd.
480-706-4070 or vabeneaz.com
FIRST PLACE
Los Dos Molinos
4855 E. Warner Road • 480-706-1066 or losdosmolinosphoenix.com
Los Dos Molinos, a family-owned startup with roots in northeastern Arizona, is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine with a homemade feel. Brent Sanders, the manager at the Ahwatukee location, said his favorite dishes are anything with adovada and chile relleno.
“It’s a family restaurant,” he said. “We do our best to make sure you’re comfortable when you come through the door.”
Part of that family atmosphere is recognizing regulars – something Sanders said sets the restaurant apart.
“I guarantee one of my servers is going to remember what you have,” he said. “They might not remember your name, but when they see your face they’ll know what you order.”
Los Dos Molinos owner Cheryl Chavez, who opened the Ahwatukee restaurant in 2016 after moving from a site she had in Chandler for five years, has won praise
from the Kyrene Family Resource Center for giving back to the community as well.
SECOND PLACE
Los Taquitios
Ahwatukee Mercado, 4747 E. Elliot Road 480-753-4370 or lostaquitosaz.com
THIRD PLACE
Original Burrito Company 4949 E. Elliot Road 480-893-3857 or burritocompany.com.
FIRST PLACE
Zzeeks
4825 E. Warner Road • 480-940-5555 or zzeeks.com
Although they now have three locations, Mark and Jody Pectol have a soft spot for their Ahwatukee restaurant. It was the first they opened when they relocated from Portland, Oregon, and it’s not far from their home.
Mark Pectol said the big attractions on their menu – pizza and Zzeeks’ Zesty Wings – are the products of months of research and experimenting long before they opened about three years ago.
While those recipes are a secret, he did reveal a couple secrets about his approach to wings, which they sell by the thousands monthly: He uses quality chicken, oil and fryers. “You can’t use the oil many times,” he said. “We change it frequently.”
Social media sites in Ahwatukee frequently carry raves about Zzeeks, attesting to the loyalty it has built up in the community.
While the Pectols like to brag about their pizza and wings, they also are proud about their sandwiches, all made to order with fresh ingredients.
SECOND PLACE
Nello’s
4710 E. Warner Road
480-893-8930 or nellospizza.com
THIRD PLACE
Spinato’s Pizzeria
4848 E. Chandler Blvd.
FIRST PLACE
My Wine Cellar
5030 E. Warner Road • 480-598-9463 or Mywinecellarphx.com
In search of a comfortable, warm and worldy spot to start, end or spend the afternoon or evening? Look no farther than My Wine Cellar, an intimate wine bar that also boasts “an unrivaled food menu and an ambiance to match.”
It’s now under the ownership of Shannon Rush, the former manager who was schooled in culinary artistry when she worked in the nationally famous Philadelphia restaurant scene.
“Whether you’re looking to kick up your heels after a long day at work or enjoy a glass and a bite ahead of an evening out and about, mark My Wine Cellar a must-do on your itinerary,” she said.
“In addition to whites, reds, rosés and bubbles, we offer a variety of draft and bottles beers, including many craft varieties brewed right here in Arizona,” she added. “Pair them with a charcuterie board, some bruschetta or something from our selection of shareable small plates for a palate-pleasing experience.”
480-961-0208 or spinatospizzeria.com
Its happy hour Monday through Saturday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m offers $2 off select by-the-glass and by-the-bottle wine varieties and draft beers, as well as “a thoughtfully selected lineup of shareable plates.”
Also offered is a wine membership entitling members to two or three bottles a month, exclusive discounts and special prices on tickets and special events. Starting Friday, March 11, it also will begin serving brunch and high tea 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
SECOND PLACE
Trattoria D’Amico
4902 E. Warner Road 480-893-8544 or trattoriadamico.com
BEST SPORTS BAR
FIRST PLACE CK’s Tavern & Grill 480-706-5564 or ckgrill.com
WTHIRD PLACE
The Living Room 4905 E. Ray Road 480-454-3599 or livingroomwinebar.com
ith 35+ HDTV’s throughout CK’s Tavern & Grill, sports fans will think they’ve gone to heaven at this Ahwatukee bar and restaurant.
Those televisions carry all the major sports packages, including the NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL. When the weather is nice, you can watch a game on the patio. And if you’re not interested in a game, it offers two pool tables, 24 beers on tap at the full-service bar and an extensive menu that includes an offering of happy-hour specials. Besides taking Best Sports Bar honors several years in a row, CK’s was the 2015 Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year.
SECOND PLACE
Native Grill and Wings 1339 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-283-9600 5030 E. Ray Road 480-496-5717 nativegrillandwings.com
THIRD PLACE
Zipps Sports Grill
4710 E. Warner Road 602-688-8050 or zippssportsgrill.com
Ahwatukee!
Submitted Photo
FIRST PLACE
Native Grill and Wings
1339 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-283-9600, 5030 E. Ray Road • 480-496-5717 or nativegrillandwings.com
Rod and Kim Ticknor love living in Ahwatukee, where they raised their family and own two Native Grill and Wings locations.
“We’re very community oriented,” Rod said. “We work and live here. We love having our businesses so close to our home.”
Their son Chandler manages the restaurant on Chandler Boulevard, commonly referred to as the Foothills location. He wasn’t named for the street or the city, Rod says. The younger Ticknor wasn’t even born in Maricopa County.
The Ticknors opened the Ray Road location 20 years ago, making it one of the first restaurants in Ahwatukee. They’ve operated the Chandler Boulevard site for seven years. Wings are the primary menu item, but chicken takes on all forms at Native. Between the two restaurants, they serve up about 40,000 wings a week, Rod said. Those include regular wings in a variety of sauces, boneless wings and chicken strippers. On Fridays, a fish fry features haddock. Pizza, sandwiches and plenty of other food can also be ordered. Rod credits his employees for making the restaurant successful. “Many of our staff members have been with us for 15 years or so,” he said. “I give a lot of credit to them.”
SECOND PLACE
CK’s Tavern & Grill
4142 E. Chandler Blvd.
480-706-5564 or ckgrill.com
THIRD PLACE
Zzeeks
4825 E. Warner Road
480-940-5555 or zzeeks.com
FIRST PLACE
Perfect Pear Bistro
1241 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-248-6266 or perfectpearbistro.com
Chris and Laura Hove recently opened their third Perfect Pear Bistro, and their second in Tempe, but the Ahwatukee couple’s popular “modern-American twist on comfort food” all start in their community.
Perfect Pear Bistro boasts of serving “fresh, local ingredients” in a “warm, inviting atmosphere,” Chris Hove said. Its fare includes fresh salads, sandwiches, grilled cheeses, soups, taco and pasta dishes accompanied by “a rotating list of craft beers, red and white wines by the glass, and creative specialty cocktails,” he added.
“We’re so grateful that our community has been so supportive, therefore allowing us to continue to expand throughout the Valley,” Laura Hove said.
Between them, the Howes have helped open more than 30 restaurants across the country.
Married for 12 years and the parents of a boy and a girl, the Howes met at a Pei Wei Asian Diner outlet that they opened.
Laura, a Santa Cruz, California, native graduated from Desert Vista High School while her Iowa-born husband graduated from Corona del Sol High.
SECOND PLACE
Angry Crab Shack
3820 E. Ray Road
602-544-8209 or angrycrabshack.com/ahwatukee
THIRD PLACE
Nello’s
4710 E. Warner Road
480-893-8930 or nellospizza.com
Voted Best Law Firm!
Submitted Photo
BUSINESS & SERVICES
FIRST PLACE
The Living Room Wine Cafe and Lounge
4905 E. Ray Road • 480-454-3599 or livingroomwinebar.com
Owner Tom Kaufman describes The Living Room Wine Cafe and Lounge as a “chill lounge with great food.”
It opened in May 2016 as “a neighborhood cafe that serves all sorts of food,” ranging from appetizers like red pepper hummus and housemade potato chips to salads like a strawberry Gorgonzola to sushi, sandwiches, steaks and meat and cheese boards.
The menu changes seasonally and features an abundance of Arizona-grown produce.
Wine is the beverage specialty, but the full bar offers a variety of craft cocktails as well as draft and bottle beer.
The Living Room incorporates an open air-loft design and the Ahwatukee location has an open-air bistro kitchen.
“You can see the chefs cooking right there,” Kaufman said.
SECOND PLACE
The Specific Chiropractor
4425 E. Agave Road 602-753-7782 or thespecific.com
THIRD PLACE
S. Yaki Court 602-651-4899 or epoxystrong.com
lobal Bikes is entering its fourth year as Ahwatukee’s one-stop bike shop. A friendly and knowledgeable staff aims to help people with every aspect of their bicycling experience.
Not only does it carry a large selection of new and used bikes, staffers will also get customers measured, fully accessorized and ready for a fun and safe bicycling experience.
In addition to sales, Global provides services from flat repairs to tune-ups. It also offers a free repair clinic for do-it-yourselfers. Its website posts mountain and road rides for beginner and intermediate cycling enthusiasts.
Submitted Photo
Thank You Ahwatukee
FIRST PLACE
Breyer Law
3840 E. Ray Road and 15715 S. 46th St. • 480-556-1159 or HusbandAndWifeLawTeam.com
MFIRST PLACE
Teach N’ Fun Ahwatukee
15626 S. 42nd St. • 480-704-1440 or teachnfun.com
amily makes all the difference, says Jackie Willis, director of Teach
ark and Alexis Breyer, the Husband and Wife Law Team, have been protecting the rights of the seriously injured in Arizona since 1996.
Mark Breyer is a certified specialist in injury and wrongful death law – a designation earned by less than 2 percent of all Arizona lawyers. He and his wife Alexis take it upon themselves to make sure their clients get the best treatment in the industry.
They also support their community in a number of ways, from sponsoring Arizona Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Foundation classes to running a monthly teacher-appreciation program to hosting a fun and free spring carnival in their Ahwatukee neighborhood.
Mark Breyer says he and Alexis want to make sure their “message of caring and outreach touches thousands of Arizona residents.”
“It’s important to us not just to be the best lawyers that we can be, but also to help our community be the best that it can be,” he said.
SECOND PLACE
Elizabeth Estes
Estes Law Firm
4505 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-656-3733 or esteslawfirmaz.com
F“I think that were a little bit different, just because we are family owned. My parents started it… My sister owns it, I run it and we have another sister that works here, so everything about this business is very personal to us,” she said.
Teach N’ Fun enrolls kids from 6 weeks to 10 years old. Willis said that the center focuses on social and emotional development, helping to prepare younger kids for kindergarten, and training with a more phonics and numbers-based curriculum.
It also offers before and after-school programs and is open in the summer. The summer program includes trips to movies, museums and aquariums. Willis is proud of a recent remodel of the “ones and twos room,” including brand new toys and carpets. All classes are currently in high demand, so there is about a 30-day wait for new students.
SECOND PLACE Triple R Child Care 4510 E. Ray Road • 480-704-5256 or triplerchildcareahwatukee.com
THIRD PLACE Desert Garden Montessori 5130 W. Warner Road • 480-496-9833 or desertgardenmontessori.com
Ahwatukee!
Barefoot Organic Carpet Care offers an environmentally-friendly green solution for more than just clean carpets. The husband-and-wife team of Justin and Shantell Gallegos live locally and use only 100-percent American made, organic cleaning solutions. Customer service is key to their success.
“We work hard to communicate thoroughly, treat your home as we would treat our own, and also take as much time as needed to guide you through the process,” Shantell said. They offer cleaning for upholstery, mattresses, tile/grout, area rugs, and more.
“This year we have invested quite a bit into new equipment to serve you even better,” said Shantell. “We are now offering organic low moisture carpet cleaning to our list of services. Our primary cleaning method is manufacturer recommend hot water extraction, but low moisture is a good interim cleaning and works well if you are in a situation where you need your carpet dry very quickly.”
Justin said they picked “barefoot” for the business’ name because “it reminds me of that comfortable feeling of bare feet on thick, soft, pure, guilt free cleaned carpet.”
FIRST PLACE
Fit4Mom Ahwatukee
Multiple Ahwatukee locations
480-299-3564 or ahwatukee.fit4mom.com
Moms looking to stay or get fit can find help at Fit4Mom in Ahwatukee. Fit4Mom provides fitness programs for moms, play dates for kids, moms’ nights out and other activities. Owner Jamie McNeal said she’s overwhelmed by the community’s reaction.
“We are a community of moms,” she said. “We provide fitness programs, but it’s much more than that. It’s kind of a support group for moms in a way.”
That support group is strengthened through exercise, bonding experiences and celebrations. McNeal said she always tunes in to how the moms are doing.
“It’s very important to me that I know what’s going on in women’s lives and how I can help,” she said. “I take a personal interest in each of them. My favorite part is seeing the changes in the moms physically and emotionally.”
SECOND PLACE
Yoasis
1304 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-460-1340 or theyoasis.com
THIRD PLACE
Perfect Pear Bistro 1241 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-248-6266 or perfectpearbistro.com
Submitted Photo
FIRST PLACE
Pongratz Development
Residential Construction
480-231-2900 or azhomeconstruction.com
For nearly 25 years, Pongratz Development has provided home services and for the last 15 years, owner Ed Pongratz and his family have lived in Ahwatukee.
Pongratz said he loves his job because his team has a passion for building.
“We like people, and we like helping people with their projects,” he said. “It has a lot to do with trust — them trusting me with their money. A home is often their biggest investment — or one of them at least.”
Pongratz Development provides remodeling projects for various homes and businesses in addition to design, contracting, building new homes and commercial construction.
Pongratz said listening to customers’ needs is something he believes sets the business apart from the competition.
“When you hear ‘Pongratz Development,’ you think of integrity, caring for the design, caring for homeowners and their goals,” he said. “I want to hear from them and what they like.”
SECOND PLACE
Rod Lampert, Harvest Plumbing
480-279-4155 or rod@ harvestplumbingcompany.com
THIRD PLACE
Spencer Scott, handyman
480-469-0250 or facebook.com/ AhwatukeeHandyman
FIRST PLACE
Joseph Ortiz
Edward Jones
4902 E. Warner Road • 480-753-7664 or edwardjones.com
Joseph Ortiz, as an Ahwatukee community member, said his intention is to be seen by his clients as the one person outside of their families who cares the most about, and most deeply committed to, their financial security and happiness.
“Every aspect of the firm’s business is designed to cater to the individual investors,” he said. “Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.”
SECOND PLACE
Jeff Schenk
Edward Jones
3646 E. Ray Road
480-706-0327 or edwardjones.com
THIRD PLACE
Matthew Tarini
Wells Fargo 10429 S. 51st St. 480-477-8497 or wfafinet.com
FIRST PLACE
Rob Bawol, AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road • 480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
Rob Bawol brings 12 years of training experience as the facilities exercise physiologist at AZ Spine Disc and Sport. Bawol has many roles to improve his patients’ and clients’ health and well-being.
Partnering with AZSDS health care providers, he creates corrective exercise programs for patients that fix faulty movement patterns, improve mobility and increase strength. When working with personal-training clients, Bawol creates individualized programs to help people reach their goals safely and effectively.
For performance-minded individuals, he creates programs that will help them run faster, jump higher and generally perform better in whatever their sport requires. He also works with individuals interested in losing weight or improving their physique through nutritional planning and management.
SECOND PLACE
Elena Prichette
Prichette Physical Therapy
4730 E. Warner Road. 480-785-5415 or ahwatukeerehab.com
THIRD PLACE
Vegas Davis
Anytime Fitness 1420 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-460-1673 or anytimefitness.com
FIRST PLACE
Foothills Pet Resort
1323 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-460-9126 or foothillspetresort.com
Foothills Pet Resort is locally owned and operated by James Barker and JJ Kruglick. Barker is a 2002 graduate of Desert Vista High School.
The promise from Foothills Pet Resort is simple: “Your pet will be treated like one of our own with their comfort and safety being our number-one priority,” Barker said. “After 10 years of learning what works and what doesn’t, we can structure each dog’s visit to ensure they are enjoying their time away from home.”
Every dog has different needs when it comes to what makes them calm and happy, Barker added. Some dogs thrive in group play, he says, while others just want to sit and cuddle with their favorite caretaker.
“It’s our job to figure that out,” Barker said. He and Kruglick credit their success partly to Peggy Curran, the manager of the Foothills Pet Resort for nine years, and her “tireless dedication.”
SECOND PLACE
Desert Dog Obedience
4700 E. Warner Road • 480-785-0036 or desertdogobedience.com
THIRD PLACE
While You’R Away
4802 E. Paiute St. • 480-287-4897 or whileyoureawayservices.com
Ahwatukee!
FIRST PLACE
Foothills Pet Resort
1323 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-460-9126 or foothillspetresort.com
If you’re looking for the perfect place to pamper your fur baby, head over to the Foothills Pet Resort, owned by James Barker and JJ Kruglick.
They say their success is about being able to keeps pets happy, even while they’re being groomed, which can be a stressful experience for animals.
“All of the time we hear from owners that tell us their dog used to shiver and shake on the way to the groomer until they started coming here,” Kruglick says. “We were able to take what we learned from successfully boarding dogs and apply it to grooming to create as much of a stress-free experience as possible.”
Each groomer has a private room. Not only does this allow the groomer to stay totally focused on the, but the energy of one nervous dog does not adversely affect the others, Barker says.
On July 5, 2006, JJ & Jimmy purchased the business – formerly called “The Pampered Pooch” – remodeled and rebranded as Foothills Pet Resort.
“We will be forever grateful for the support we received from the Foothills community and by 2009 we had expanded 3 more times and purchased the grooming shop located next door,” Kruglick said.
SECOND PLACE
Diamond Cut Pet Spa
4825 E. Warner Road 480-689-1261 or diamondcutpetspa.com
THIRD PLACE
Fluffy Tails Pet Salon Plaza Mountainside, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-704-0557 or fluffytailspetsalon.com
BEST VETERINARIAN
The owners of the Ahwatukee Animal Care Hospital and Pet Resort say their facility is the only Ahwatukee veterinary clinic to attain accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association. Gaining that status shows they’ve met a rigorous set of standards and passed multiple inspections.
The full-service small-animal hospital provides comprehensive health care services, animal boarding and animal day care. Dogs, cats, avians and exotics are welcome. Besides traditional forms of veterinary care, the clinic offers acupuncture and laser treatments. Dr. Jeffrey Jenkins, who has owned the clinic since 1999, is certified in holistic medicine.
The clinic also sells pet food, has an in-house pharmacy, offers surgery, ultrasounds and dental care. The clinic opened in 1991. Other staff veterinarians are Dr. Edith Herczegh and Dr. Lyle Bartel.
SECOND PLACE Foothills Animal Hospital
3151 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-759-9721 or foothillsah.com
THIRD PLACE
Ahwatukee Commons Veterinary Hospital
4902 E. Warner Road 480-893-8423 or theacvh.com
Big O Tires
15625 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy. • 480-460-6319 or bigotires.com
People on social media have praised the Big O Tires personnel in Ahwatukee for their friendly and helpful demeanor, with one comment saying “they’re not just customer service.”
“When it comes to having a car or truck serviced, most drivers have more questions than answers,” Big O notes. “Questions like ‘what is rotor resurfacing... and how much will it cost?’ and ‘What on earth is that clunking sound?’” Big O said it gives “straight answers and top-notch services” that include a wide range of diagnostic, repair and routine maintenance services, backed by one of the best national services warranties in the business.
Interstate Auto Repair
7130 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler • 480-797-3786 or interstateautomotiverepair.com
Keith and Michelle Zelinski started Interstate Auto Repair nine years ago based on a simple principle: treat every one of their customers fairly.
While other shops often base their business on pushing repairs that might not be necessary, the Zelinkis say they want their customers to know they’re getting the best advice to keep them and their family on the road without unnecessary expense.
“You don’t have to cheat people,” Keith says. “We just tell them the way it is.”
Interstate offers free round-trip local rides to work or home while repairs are made, discounted rentals if needed and what Zelinski calls “the most courteous staff in town. “
SECOND PLACE
Discount Tire
4831 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-785-0017 or discounttire.com/en/store/az/ phoenix/s/1472
THIRD PLACE
Greulich’s 10827 S. 48th St. 480-893-1201 or greulichs.com/ahwatukee
FIRST PLACE
Barefoot Pools
1241 E. Chandler Blvd. • 602-546-7665 or Barefootpoolman.com
You can’t accuse Jose Garcia, owner of Barefoot Pools in Ahwatukee, of resting on his laurels.
He has won Best Pool Service in the Best of Ahwatukee contest since 2011.
He and his crew of 20 hardly have time to rest on anything with 500 pools to clean each week and more than 150 remodels per year. “We have a great team,” he said. “We’re quality-driven, not profitdriven.”
Garcia said he pays his technicians by the hour to encourage them to take the time to do the job right. And when he occasionally needs to hire a new crew member, he looks for someone with no experience.
“We can build them up the right way,” he said.
SECOND PLACE
Clear Diamond Pool Care
12824 S. 45th Place
602-918-2223 or cleardiamondpoolcare.com
THIRD PLACE
AZ Pool Expert
480-231-9651 or azpoolexpert.com
BEST INSURANCE AGENT
FIRST PLACE
Lynn Hennessy State Farm
4645 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-759-0203 or statefarm.com
This is Lynn Hennessy’s sixth Best of Ahwatukee award, and it’s for good reason. Her clients have consistently provided positive reviews as the go-to insurance agent in Ahwatukee.
Hennessy expressed pride discussing her office’s work as its 30-year anniversary approaches.
“We go one step beyond in everything we do,” she said. “We don’t just take an order — we ask questions and get people thinking.”
She said she appreciates the support and referrals from so many people in Ahwatukee.
“You can’t do anything this long and not love what you’re doing,” she said. “I love what I’m doing and I have a tremendous staff with a lot of years of experience.”
SECOND PLACE
Amanda Gomez AGI Group 1345 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-277-2608 or agigroupaz.com
THIRD PLACE
Sam Winter 3636 E. Ray Road 480-704-2004 or samwinter.net
FIRST PLACE
Dawn Matesi
United Brokers Group
480-236-8869 or dawnopensdoors.com
Although buying or selling a home is important, and sometimes stressful, business, “it can also be very fun,” said Dawn Matesi, an Ahwatukee resident and agent with United Brokers Group.
Before becoming an agent 20 years ago, Matesi was a recreation superintendent who managed 150 employees. That gave her lots of experience at dealing with all kinds of personalities and staying organized, skills that serve her well as a broker.
“I’m very good at communicating with my clients,” she said.
Often, after a deal has closed, clients say, “‘Is that it? That was so easy!’ I love hearing that. It means I did my job.”
Matesi, who has made appearances on national real estate shows, enjoys hiking and yoga.
SECOND PLACE
Randi Garcia/Next Door Realty
1345 E. Chandler Blvd.
480-460-1309 or nextdoorrealty.net
THIRD PLACE Judy Young/United Brokers Group
106. S. Kyrene Road, Tempe. 602-617-8763 or ubgre.com
FIRST PLACE
Pritchette Physical Therapy
4730 E. Warner Road • 480-785-5415 or ahwatukeerehab.com
Pritchette Phyiscal Therapy, formelry Rehab Plus, is an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy practice with a holistic approach to care. Dr. Keith Pritchette offers a wide range of services including: physical training, sports performance training, yoga, Pilates, aquatic physical therapy, massage and golf training.
Pritchette prides his business on service.
“We here feel like customer service is a lost art and we fell that it is important to have 100-percent customer satisfaction. We do everything we can do to make their time enjoyable while we help them get healthy and strong and reach their goals,” he said.
Since opening in 2009, Pritchette has grown his practice from a modest 3,000-square-foot building to a 9,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that is large enough to house many services.
SECOND PLACE
Foothills Family Dental
1238 E. Chandler Blvd.
480-460-0484 or foothillsfamilydental.com
THIRD PLACE
AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road 480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
FIRST PLACE
Bamboo Nails & Spa
4645 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-598-2555 or bamboonailspa.com
Owner Kim Dao has been serving Ahwatukee residents for 13 years, offering full-service nail care, waxing, eyelash extensions, facials and more at her business, Bamboo Nails & Spa. She took first place in this category in 2006, 2007 and 2015 and residents have now voted her best again.
“I’m very excited and honored that the community would vote for me,” she said.
SECOND PLACE
Mai Nail Spa 3145 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-704-0995
THIRD PLACE
Angel Touch Nails 4206 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-598-8870
Amanda Pyper, licensed massage therapist, has made Pritchette Ohysical Therapy’s massage program a Best of Ahwatukee three years running. A graduate of the Arizona School of Massage Therapy in 2003, she has helped clients improve their range of motion, decrease their level of pain, and quickly improve their health.
Her technique implements deep tissue manipulation, trigger point, hot stones, sport massage, injury massage and other massage methodologies.
Pyper received a bachelor’s degree in 2010 from Arizona State University and has additional expertise in human anatomy and physiology as well as kinesiology, the study of movement.
She has recently graduated from SouthWest Institute of Natural Aesthetics and offers aesthetic services, including facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peel and waxing.
SECOND PLACE
AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road
THIRD PLACE
Massage Envy 4722 E. Ray Road 480-759-3689 or massageenvy.com
480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
F15410 S. Mountain Pkwy. • 480-940-8299 or Foothillsrehab.com.
oothills Sports Medicine Physical Therapy has helped the Ahwatukee residents get back to the activities they love most since 2000.
“We’re honored to win, and look forward to serving the physical therapy needs of the community for years to come,” said clinic partner, Lori Francoeur.
The entire staff takes time to understand each patient’s condition and goals, and then implement a hands-on physical therapy treatment plan to get results, Francoeur added.
SECOND PLACE
AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road 480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
THIRD PLACE
Pritchette Phyiscal Therapy 4730 E. Warner Road 480-785-5415 or ahwatukeerehab.com
PLACE Pritchette Physical Therapy 4730 E. Warner Road • 480-785-5415 or ahwatukeerehab.com Amanda Gomez 480.277.2608
Our mission is to o er products tailored to your individual insurance and protection needs. Whether you need coverage for your home, auto, investment properties, health, life or business, our goal is to provide you with the level of protection that is right for YOU!
Contact me today for a FREE NO OBLIGATION review of your insurance needs. Your Local Independent Insurance Agency A_Gomez_AF News 1-8pg.pdf 1 1/12/16 5:12 PM THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTES! Amanda Gomez 480.277.2608
Amanda@AGIGROUPAZ.com www.AGIGROUPAZ.com
Amanda@AGIGROUPAZ.com www.AGIGROUPAZ.com Our mission is to o er products tailored to your individual insurance and protection needs. Whether you need coverage for your home, auto, investment properties, health, life or business, our goal is to provide you with the level of protection that is right for YOU
FIRST PLACE
AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road • 480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
The AZ Spine Disc and Sport chiropractic team is comprised of Dr. Angela Christopher, Dr. Ryan Rudd, and Dr. Michael Cady. These three chiropractic physicians bring over 25 years of experience to the Ahwatukee community. In addition to chiropractic care, the team utilizes a variety of different treatment modalities such as active release techniques, FAKTR, Kinesio Taping and decompression therapy to resolve a variety of injuries such as: neck and back pain, sciatica, headaches, carpal tunnel, plantar fasciitis and a variety of soft tissue and sports injuries. The team works together to make sure that each patient receives individualized care that they deserve to resolve their pain and help them return to enjoying life.
SECOND PLACE
Dr. Cameron Call
The Specific Chiropractor
4425 E. Agave Road
602-753-7782 or thespecific.com
THIRD PLACE
Dr. J. Scott Mattham
Mountainside Wellness Center
4909 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-940-7444 or mountainsidewellnessaz.com
BEST NATUROPATHIC/HOMEOPATHIC
FIRST PLACE
Jody Murray
AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road • 480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
Jody Murray joined the practice at AZ Spine Disc and Sport about a year ago, after relocating from Connecticut. As an acupuncturist who is also a licensed athletic trainer, she brings 30 years of sports medicine experience to AZSDS. Murray specializes in the evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal complaints and pain management. In addition to acupuncture, Jody is proficient in cupping therapy, instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation, FAKTR, tissue flossing and a host of other manual therapies. In her spare time, Jody volunteers for the Grand Canyon Pro Rodeo sports medicine team.
SECOND PLACE
Dr. Nicole Gerard 4425 E. Agave Road 602-492-3112 or drnicolegirard.com.
THIRD PLACE
Dr. Judith Jones 4206 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-888-0884 or drjudijones.com
Dr. Judie Barnes Clark thanks you all for your support! She and Dr Amy Guzek are opening Hip Kids Pediatrics in a few short weeks. Follow our progress on Facebook ... We are so grateful for our dedicated patients and staff!!!
www.hipkidspediatrics.com www.facebook.com/hipkidspeds
FIRST PLACE
Madison Avenue Salon and Day Spa
4910 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-759-3308 or spamadison.com
Madison Avenue Salon and Day Spa is a family-owned business that has been helping residents look and feel their best since 1998.
“We’re a full-service salon. We offer hair services, nails, skincare and massage for men, women and children,” said director and stylist Andrea Morin, who credits customer service for the business’ success. The friendly staff of 30 stylists, eight skin-care specialists, three nail technicians and three masseuses stay on top of the latest trends and techniques. Morin takes pride in the their continued training, noting, “We go above and beyond for every service. Because of the extended education that our salon focuses on with our service providers, it sets us apart.”
SECOND PLACE
Gentleman Joe’s
4940 E. Ray Road 480-705-9031 or ghentlemanjoes.com
THIRD PLACE
Adam Pink Salon
3936 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-759-0232 or adampinksalon.com
FIRST PLACE
Mountain Park Senior Living
4475 E. Knox Road • 480-630-2462 or mountainparkseniorliving.com
Mountain Park Senior Living enables residents to enjoy a full lifystyle that balances activity, independence and assistance. The all-inclusive senior-living community offers five living options, from light care to more assistance, short-term to long-term stays. Besides tending to all necessities, such as cooking and housekeeping, it offers a variety of amenities, including a theater, in the monthly rent.
SECOND PLACE
THIRD PLACE
Hawthorn Court at Ahwatukee 13822 S. 46th Place 480-589-1224 or srgseniorliving.com
La Estancia Nursing and Rehabilitation Center 15810 S. 42nd St. 480-759-0358 or laestancianursingandrehab.com
BEST SKIN CARE
FIRST PLACE
Body by Leverett
4530 E. Ray Road • 480-400-8492 or Leverettmd.com
Your skin is your largest organ, covering about 20 square feet, so it pays to take care of it. Having nice skin also makes you feel more attractive and confident. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Larry C. Leverett of Ahwatukee has designed a medical spa treatment program that meets the unique needs of women and men who live in the desert southwest.
The medical spa is a specialized environment where aestheticians pamper clients and do battle with lines and wrinkles, acne, unwanted hair, rosacea, excess weight and spider veins.
Typical Body By Leverett treatments include Botox and other dermal filler injections and laser hair removal. Micro-needling, chemical peels, dermaplaning and microdermabrasion are anti-aging and skin rejuvenation techniques.
Another popular treatment is Latisse, a prescription that can help you grow long, full eyelashes. Hormone and B12 complex injections are used for medically-supervised weight loss.
SECOND PLACE
Carmen’s Skin Care at Ahwatukee Skin & Laser
4425 E. Agave Road
480-720-5200 or ahwatukeeskincare.com
THIRD PLACE
A-Peeling Faces
3936 E. Chandler Blvd.
480-540-7555 or apeelingfaces.com
Serving Ahwatukee residents with all their Dermatological needs for Individuals and Families
ere is no safe or “protective” tan since tanning itself is the result of DNA damage to the skin. Whether from sunlight or tanning beds, skin damage from UV radiation starts within minutes. We emphasize to patients that it takes just one damaged skin cell to start skin cancer. Instead try a sunless tanning product that contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone).
Brenda Vogl, RN, MS, NP
Submitted Photo
Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA 1030 E. Liberty Lane • 480-759-6762 or valleyymca.org/ahwatukee
o matter your age or your preferred form of exercise, the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA has a program or an option to fit your fitness goals. It holds a full basketball gym, a wide range of exercise machines, a swimming pool and programs for kids through senior citizens.
The Y even has a small-group program to help survivors of cancer treatments regain their strength and energy during their recovery.
SECOND PLACE
Pritchette Physical Therapy
4730 E. Warner Road 480-785-5415 or ahwatukeerehab.com/
THIRD PLACE Curves of Ahwatukee 4405 E. Ray Road 480-706-8000 or curbves.com
MEDICAL SERVICES
FIRST PLACE
Lifetime Eyecare
3961 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-706-3060 or azlifetime.com
Lifetime Eyecare is no stranger to the Best of Ahwatukee list. In business for about 10 years, this will be its sixth award since 2010.
Owner and optometrist Dr. Murray S. Pratt understands that each patient has a unique set of needs.
“We try to give personal caring service to everybody. Each person needs something a little different so we don’t expect to do the exact same exam or treatment for every person. Where trying to figure out what each individual needs, and help them, he said.
Pratt took over as owner and optometrist in 2012, and has seen the business flourish. “We recently did a remodel and expansion just last April. We’ve been growing and trying to fit more patients,” said Pratt.
Lifetime Eyecare is happy to help with a variety of patient needs. Pratt and his staff can help with everything from eyeglasses and contacts, vision therapy services, and medical eye care for those suffering from diabetes, glaucoma, pink eye and pretty much anything outside of surgery.
SECOND PLACE
Eye Priority 15725 S. 46th St. 480-893-2300 or eyepriority.com
THIRD PLACE
Arizona’s Vision 15215 S. 48th St. 480-725-7234 or arizonasvision.com
FIRST PLACE
Dr. John Culp
Jungle Roots Children’s Dentistry
4232 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-759-1119 or jungleroots.com
Even cowardly little lions can rest at ease in this jungle-themed dentistry office. Dr. John Culp pioneered the concept of themed-children’s dentistry 23 years ago and has been keeping Ahwatukee’s kids smiling ever since.
“Dr. Culp is our magic. The kids absolutely love him, and it’s all about the kids,” said practice administrator Mary Madoche.
Jungle Roots caters to patients from birth to 18 years old. The office features a big tree in the middle, all the seats look like stumps and the staff hides prizes for the kiddies to discover while waiting.
Jungle Roots combines a kid-friendly environment with the latest dental technology, a formula that is sure to tame even the most savage beast.
SECOND PLACE
Anita Marra Foothills Family Dental 1238 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-460-0484 or foothillsfamilydental.com
THIRD PLACE
Bella Vista Dental 15715 S. 46th St. 480-598-5900 or bellavistadentalcare.com
FIRST PLACE - TIE
Dr. Mary Jo Kutler, Ahwatukee Pediatrics
15715 S. 46th St. • 480-496-6444 or ahwatukeepeds.com.
Dr. Mary Jo Kutler is a general pediatrician who founded Ahwatukee Pediatrics in 1993 and has been serving the area’s pediatric and young adult population ever since. She is board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Pediatricians and is a fellow with the American Board of Pediatrics. Kutler also is a member of Phoenix Children’s Care Network, which includes half of all independent providers, 80 percent of pediatric subspecialists, and Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
Dr. Alexis Woods
Associated Internists of Ahwatukee
4530 E. Muirwood Drive • 480-961-2303 or aiahealthcare.com
Dr. Alexis Woods is an internal medicine physician who specializes in the care of adults. She has have worked at Associated Internists of Ahwatukee since moving here from Texas in 2005.
She completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston in 2005 and completed a masters of public health at the University of Texas Houston School of Public Health, with a concentration in disease control.
She sees patients in the office and at several area skilled nursing facilities, and also works as a hospitalist at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center Hospital.
SECOND PLACE
Dr. Janet Mullins
Kachina Family Practice
16611 S. 40th St.
480-706-4100 or kachinafamilypractice.com
THIRD PLACE
Dr. Rebecca Goldman
Foothills Family Care 4530 E. Ray Road 480-785-4775
FIRST PLACE
Dr. David Stone, AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road • 480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
DArizona for an interventional spine fellowship. He joined AZ Spine Disc & Sport in the fall of 2014, as the medical director of the facility.
Prior to medicine, he was a four-year starter for the University of Virginia varsity baseball team and played professionally in the San Francisco Giants organization. Stone’s mission is to help reduce pain and restore function to people affected by acute and chronic pain conditions.
r. David Stone is a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with fellowship training in interventional pain management. He completed his medical education at the University of Virginia, where he was recognized as the Bowman Scholar in his final year. This honor is given to the best medical student during clinical rotations, as voted on by medical school faculty and attending physicians. Stone completed his medical residency at the University of Colorado before moving to
SECOND PLACE
Dr. Robert Grayson
Southwest Contemporary 16611 S. 40th St. 480) 785-2100 or swcwc.net
THIRD PLACE
Dr. Mary Jo Kutler
Ahwatukee Pediatrics 15715 S. 46th St. 480-49
BEST NURSE PRACTIONER/PHYSICIAN’S ASSISTANT
FIRST PLACE
Tina Tretter, AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road • 480-759-1668 or azspinediscandsport.com
Christina Tretter, NP-C, brings more than 20 years of health-care experience to the medical department of AZ Spine Disc & Sport. Her career as a nurse has taken her through numerous medical specialties, giving her a diverse background of medical knowledge.
She enjoys working in a primary-care setting overseeing the entire care of one’s health. As a member of AZ Spine Disc & Sport, she continues to provide her patient’s with excellent primary care.
She also focuses her time on specific areas of sports medicine, pain and nutrition/ weight loss. Her expertise often combines holistic and natural areas of medicine with the more traditional medicine. She currently oversees the medical weight loss program at AZ Spine Disc and Sport.
SECOND PLACE
Brenda Vogl
Arizona Premier Dermotology
4545 E. Chandler Blvd.
480-785-7546 or azpremierderm.com
THIRD PLACE
Sara Neumann
Ahwatukee Skin and Laser 4425 E. Agave Road
480-704-7546 or ahwatukeeskincare.com
Ahwatukee!
Dr. Chris Woolaver
Woolaver Orthodontics opened in 2008 and today continues its goal of treating each patient like family and providing the best orthodontic care possible in a positive way.
Dr. Diane Mastsumoto has practiced medicine in the Valley for about 30 years. But, she considers her practice — TLC Pediatrics — her pride and joy.
She founded and opened the office in 2004 to fulfill her dream of practicing pediatrics in a small, intimate setting where patient care comes first.
Also on staff are Dr. Noelle Miller and Dr. Khristina Ramirez.
Woolaver specializes in braces and Invisalign.
Woolaver was born with a cleft lip and palate. He had his first orthodontic experience when he was about 6 months old. His last set of braces came off at age 29. He remembers wearing braces for 10 years, including facemask headgear, expanders and everything else.
He follows the philosophy of treating the patient, not just the teeth.
“Keep it simple … orthodontics is technical, but it doesn’t have to be complicated and cumbersome for the patient. Make the orthodontic experience as easy as possible,” Woolaver said.
SECOND PLACE
Team Orthodontics
4350 E. Ray Road 480-759-3333 or teamorthodontics.com/phoenix
THIRD PLACE
Dr. Janet Jordan
Ahwatukee Orthodontics
12010 S. Warner Elliot Loop 480-598-3659 or ahwatukeeorthodontics.com
The clinic treats children, from newborns to age 21, of all ability levels.
Mastsumoto is committed to vaccinating children. The waiting areas are stocked with games to keep kids busy. Separate lobbies are available for kids who are sick and kids who are in for a well-care appointment.
The clinic is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, but a nurse is on call after hours, as are the three physicians. Doctors see all of the patients, not physician assistants or nurse practitioners.
TLC Pediatrics operates a triage service for after-hours needs.
SECOND
Dr. Mary Jo Kutler
Ahwatukee Pediatrics 15715 S. 46th St. 480-496-6444 or ahwatukeepeds.com
THIRD PLACE
Dr. Judith Barnes-Clark Active Kids Pediatrics 15215 S. 48th St. 480-783-8960 or activekidspediatrics.com
FIRST PLACE
Dance Studio 111
4910 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-706-6040 or dancestudio111.com
Dance Studio founder and owner Kimberly Lewis has been a force for dance education in Ahwatukee for more than two decades.
Her annual production of Nutcracker, which will mark its 18th year in December, has become part of the community’s Christmas tradition and is always a sell-out. Lewis not only works with the dancers in that production, but hand-makes many of the costumes.
“It has been such a blessing to have Dance Studio 111 in The Ahwatukee Foothills these past 24 years. I am grateful, and blessed, to my talented staff for being with me all these years,” Lewis said. “We truly are a family. Thank you to our wonderful community, our parents and dancers for supporting our dance studio, the Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet and Studio 111 Theater Company Productions. Ahwatukee Foothills is our home and there is ‘no place like home.’”
“Thank you for voting us as the Best of 2016...I am forever grateful,” she added.
SECOND PLACE
Phoenix Dance Cooperative Equestrian Centre
12020 S. Warner Elliot Loop 480-264-2929 or phoenixdancecooperative.com
THIRD PLACE Center Pointe Dance 4825 E. Warner Road 480-598-8428 or centerpointedance.com
These are just three examples of our dedicated educators—they understand adolescents and care about their success. Parents can count on Kyrene middle schools for excellence in academics, quality instruction and a strong support system for students. Engage with Kyrene Schools
Linda Potts
Best Middle School Teacher
Chorus Teacher at Altadeña
Linda Potts
Best Middle School Teacher
Chorus Teacher at Altadeña Ahwatukee!
FIRST PLACE
Linda Potts, Altadeña Middle School
Kyrene.org
Ateacher at Altadeña Middle School since it opened in 1991, Linda Potts is the choir director and teacher, leading daily an estimated 300 students in sixth through eighth grade in the art of singing.
A teacher for 12 years in Massachusetts before moving to Arizona “in search of sun and warmth,” she said she is amazed that so many students take her course – they sign up for it as an elective. “I like to think I have something to do with that,” she added.
“Students can really relate to music,” she said, adding that she teaches her classes all forms of music, from rap and rock to opera and soul.
“It helps them cope with everyday stresses,” she explained, adding that she takes her sixth and seventh graders on singing trips to local hospitals while the eighth graders perform four concerts a year at school for the public.
SECOND PLACE
Erin Vosseller
Summit School OF AHWATUKEE
4515 E. Muirwood Drive 480-403-9500 or Summitschoolaz.org
THIRD PLACE
David Pather
Centennial Middle School Kyrene.org
FIRST PLACE
Summit School of Ahwatukee
4515 E. Muirwood Drive • 480-403-9500 or Summitschoolaz.org
From preschool to eighth grade, many parents walk their kids into the classrooms at Summit School of Ahwatukee and spend a few minutes before school starts to chat with teachers and other parents.
It’s a community that’s been forming strong bonds and striving for excellence for 15 years, and it’s just one of the reasons why it’s the 2016 winner of Best Preschool.
Andrea Benkel, director of early childhood education, said the preschool has 70 kids, ranging in age from 30 months to 5 years. Many of the older students, she said, like to come back to the preschool to have lunch with the preschoolers and help them with tasks.
Ahwatukee!
The goal of the program is to give students a solid academic and social foundation, so they’re ready for Summit’s rigorous liberal arts curriculum or ready to move on to another elementary school.
“They leave as 5-year-olds with an understanding of how to be a leader,” Benkel said. “Their toolbox is full for what they need to move forward.”
or magicaljourneylc.org
Development Center 1401 E. Liberty Lane 480-460-1480 or godsgarden.com
Submitted Photo
Submitted
FIRST PLACE
Chris Klein, visual arts Desert Vista High School
Chris Klein, 46, has spent half his life teaching, and since 1996 has been at Desert Vista High School as a visual arts teacher.
A resident of Ahwatukee with his wife Danielle and four children, Klein has two sons in Desert Vista and the other two plan on attending in a few years.
“I really enjoy teaching the students about art and becoming artists,” he said. “I enjoy having fun and learning with the students. Technology moves so fast that it’s nice that the students have input in their education. The benefits of teaching and being married to someone who teaches is that we both have time off at the same time to spend with our four boys. I enjoy going to work every day.”
SECOND PLACE
Josh Thye, band, music
Desert Vista High
THIRD PLACE
Victor Silva, English, speech and debate Desert Vista High
FIRST PLACE
School of Rock Ahwatukee
4645 E. Chandler Blvd. • 480-753-3266 or schoolofrock.com/ahwatukee
No matter what interests a student outside of music, there’s a music community waiting for them at School of Rock in Ahwatukee.
Megan Baskerville, the general manager, and her husband Shane have worked with the school a combined 18 years, and see School of Rock as a place where kids can be themselves.
“Music is the great unifier. I think these parents are seeing their kids build confidence through music,” Megan Baskerville said. “They’ve done an awesome job for us by telling friends and family about us so more kids can have the joy of music in their lives.”
Noting that School of Rock uses performance-based learning, which allows kids to get the hang of instruments quicker, she added:
“Seeing kids who think they can’t do something achieve those things and seeing that look on their face, I think that’s my favorite part every time.”
SECOND PLACE
Music Maker Workshops
3233 E. Chandler Blvd. 480-706-1224 or mmwaz.com
THIRD PLACE
Musical Mind Studios
602-759-0656
Physical
Massage
Personal
Nutrition
$299 for 1 month program
Extra 5% off each for couples Or 10% each for groups of 3+ (Originally $499!)
1st Place
PERSONAL TRAINING
$400
ACUPUNCTURE
$350 for 5 sessions (Originally $80 each!)
*Must use after initial consult