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He’s Got

HEART Gregory Welsh helps others with organ transplants

CELEBRATION OF

Fine Art The immersive experience turns 30

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FEBRUARY 2020/MARCH 2020 · $3.99

He’s Got

HEART Gregory Welsh helps others with organ transplants

CELEBRATION OF

Fine Art The immersive experience turns 30

ON THE COVER: Jacob Potje and Susan Morrow Potje of Celebration of Fine Art photographed by Pablo Robles

Art Immersion Scottsdale’s Celebration of Fine Art turns 30 this year

Let the Good Times Roll

North Valley real estate market churns along

Bella Mode! Nikki and Brie Bella bring the party to Hotel Valley Ho

He Has Heart

Gregory Welsh helps others in line for an organ transplant

2 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

DEPARTMENTS BUZZ

BUSINESS

10 Events

53 Vernon Aviation

What’s happening in the North Valley

New private jet service moves into the Airpark

in February and March

55 (Ac)counting on Each Other 14 Philanthropy

Couple overcomes insurmountable odds to find

North Valley Girl Scouts: It’s Cookie Season!

love, launch tax business

18 Fun

HOME

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show

The redesigned Highlander Hybrid Platinum

20 Outtakes

is a solid choice

Coyotes serve their fans

58 Trimble’s Tales

22 News Briefs

Surveying the Mexican border

FRESH

TASTE

25 Travel Essentials

59 Surf’s Up!

Slipper socks and hand sanitizer are must-haves

Hula’s High Street brings tiki culture

on winter trips

27 Arts Sedona Film Festival honors the best in film

to North Phoenix

64 Detroit Proud

Lloyd Cole to make rare Phoenix appearance

David Najor brings the flavors of Michigan to Scottsdale

31 Over the Hill Snowy escapes with ski, snowboard adventures for all

66 What’s Cooking

FEATURES

Flourless Chocolate Cake

BETTER

44 Keeping Western Heritage Alive Rodeo Days

in their dream homes

70 Puzzles

50 The Art of Giving

71 Marketplace

Catholic Community Foundation hosts

The North Valley Marketplace

annual ‘Pitch Day’

52 Shaving Heads for Thomas

4 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Carter Lay helps others get in shape

Stunning spas abound in the North Valley

The Ozer Group helps put clients

cancer-stricken classmate

67 Workout Partner

68 In Treatment

48 Experience You Can Count On

Great Hearts North Phoenix supports its

61 A Flair for the Creative A newcomer to Scottsdale, Gatsby’s makes its mark

30 Arts

Everyone’s a cowboy during Cave Creek

57 Wheels

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CIRCULATION

For a courtesy copy or to schedule a consultation, please call either Mr. Schwartz (602.285.5020) or Ms. Pontrelli (602.285.5081).

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NORTH VALLEY MAGAZINE is published six times a year for distribution targeting high-income households in such communities as Carefree, Cave Creek, Desert Mountain, The Boulders, Terravita, Silverleaf, DC Ranch, Grayhawk, Desert Ridge, Tatum Ranch, Paradise Valley, Legend Trail, Whisper Rock, Troon, Estancia and Arrowhead Ranch. You can also pick up North Valley Magazine at Scottsdale Whole Foods and AJ’s locations among many businesses, including high-end retail shops, salons, spas, auto dealerships, libraries, children’s and women’s specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, health clubs, luxury resorts, medical offices and many rack locations. POSTMASTER: Please return all undeliverable copies to North Valley Magazine, 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282. Yearly subscriptions available; six issues mailed directly to your mailbox for $19.95 per year (within the U.S.). All rights reserved. ®2018 Affluent Publishing LLC. Printed in the USA.

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FEBRUARY 14-16 10am – 5pm

EVENTS CALENDAR:

Held on the majestic grounds of the Wigwam Resort, a short drive from the Phoenix Metro area. The festival is a life-size picture postcard framed by towering palms, lush green lawns, and flowering gardens—creating a stunning outdoor gallery.

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Featuring 125 accomplished fine artists and craftsmen from around the nation, the three day event guarantees its patrons an unparalleled cultural experience with amenities that include daily music, performance art, and trendy food, wine and beer concessions. The resort also offers upscale Restaurants and patio dining.

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61st Annual

Tubac Festival of Arts February 5-9 12 Tubac Rd • Tubac, AZ

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BUZZ • EVENTS By Sara Edwards

FEBRUARY 1 Lee Perreira Glendale-based Lee Perreira is a singersongwriter who combines classic blues riffs with a soul-textured vocal style. His unique and captivating music captures his audiences, exposing his true soul through his songs.

NVSO “All That Jazz” Gala

R&B, with a lot of flavor between, and the sexy is always turned up to 11. CB Live, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Desert Ridge Marketplace, Phoenix, 602-910-5161, cblive.com, 7:30 p.m., free admission.

latest album, “City of Lights,” Ashley Red is guaranteed to bring the house down. CB Live, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Desert Ridge Marketplace, Phoenix, 602-910-5161, cblive.com, 7:30 p.m., free admission.

FEBRUARY 9

FEBRUARY 22

Deliberate Kin According to this bluegrass duo, they have been accused of turning a room full of strangers into a place of new friends. The Phoenix couple believe music is an art of healing, and they express this through their debut album, “Things Happen.” Deliberate Kin is on tour to promote the album and is making a few stops in Phoenix this February and March. Saddlecreek Coﬀee Company, 28212 N. Tatum Boulevard, Suite D6, Cave Creek, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free admission.

NineBall No other cover band can bring the house down with rock ‘n’ roll like NineBall. Its songs are danceable and versatile to fit the mood for any venue. CB Live, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Desert Ridge Marketplace, Phoenix, 602-910-5161, cblive.com, 7:30 p.m., free admission.

Lee Perreira

CB Live, 21001 N.Tatum Boulevard, Desert Ridge Marketplace, Phoenix, 602910-5161, cblive.com, 5 p.m., free admission

FEBRUARY 8 Desert Foothills Library 2020 Gala It’s an evening of glitz and glamor for the 2020 Desert Foothills Library Gala, a fundraising event for the library. Each ticket allows guests to enjoy cocktails, a luxury dinner and a silent auction, all inside the library with live entertainment from We3. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. School House Road, Cave Creek, 480488-2286, 6 p.m., $200.

FEBRUARY 8 Black Beards Delight Black Beards Delight is an acoustic trio that covers hits from ’90s rock to modern

FEBRUARY 15 Ashley Red This Las Vegas group is bringing its high-energy, alternative dance music to CB Live. Ashley Red has its fair share of experience. The band headlined the Strawberry Days Festival in Colorado for three years, as well as the Phoenix Culinary Festival, and was the House Band for “Valley View Live!” in 2014. Now, with its

10 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

FEBRUARY 22 NVSO “All That Jazz” Gala Prohibition isn’t in effect at the North Valley Symphony Orchestra fundraising gala event. It’s oﬃcially the 2020s, so the NSVO invites all music lovers to celebrate, Roaring ’20s style. Put on the Ritz and go all out with the tassels and glitter. Each event ticket includes one cocktail, dinner and one raﬄe ticket for the silent auction. The silent auction will have unique items like spa packages, a hand-crafted violin by Jody Summerfield, and theme baskets. Continues on page 12

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BUZZ • EVENTS Sheraton Crescent, 2620 W. Dunlap Avenue, Phoenix, northvalleysymphony. org, 5:30 p.m., $75.

The Gerry Jones Home Tour

FEBRUARY 29 Cave Creek Craft Beer Festival Cave Creek will hold its first craft beer festival this February, and it invites guests to sample not only craft beers, but ciders and kombucha. One general entry ticket gives attendees a souvenir sampling mug and 20 drink sample tickets. Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, cavecreekcraftbeerfestival.com, 1 to 5 p.m., $45-$60.

MARCH 1 Spring Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival Nothing pairs better than fine art and a glass of wine. The Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival brings 165 artists of different mediums from all over the United States for people to peruse and admire while sipping and sampling wine. The festival will feature jeweler Harold Lujan and live music by legendary Flamenco guitarist Esteban. Downtown Carefree, 101 Easy Street, Carefree, 480-837-5637, thunderbirdartists.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., $3 for adults 18 and older.

MARCH 8 The Gerry Jones Home Tour Visit six of architect Gerry Jones’ signature homes on this Cave Creek Museum tour. Guests will travel on chauffeur buses to each house within three different time slots. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive, Cave Creek, 480-488-2764, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., $75.

MARCH 10 Jewel of the Creek Hike Join the group as it explores the Jewel of the Creek Preserve. Experience the unique landscape and flora of this desert oasis and discover why it’s our most popular preserve.

The hike will be on the Dragonfly Trail Loop, which is a moderate, 2-mile hike. Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, 44000 N. Spur Cross Road, Cave Creek, 602506-2930, 9 a.m. to noon, call for charge.

MARCH 11 Music & Muffins Participate in a lively exploration of a wide range of musical genres in this club. Come together with fellow music lovers to discover new music, learn in-depth about old favorites, and share your own mustknow pieces. Arizona Musicfest Community Room, 7950 E. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale, 480-488-0806, 10 a.m. to noon, free admission

MARCH 18 International Film Festival at PVCC Paradise Valley Community College will host an international film festival with an overarching theme of “Around the World in Eight Films.” This film evening will take the group to Turkey and Ukraine with the film “Love Me.” Paradise Valley Community College, 18401 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, 602493-2600, paradisevalley.edu/cpa, free admission.

12 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

MARCH 20 Cinematic Reflections on WWII This cinematic film series takes the group through some of the little-known stories about World War II with a postfilm discussion facilitated by Gary Zaro, humanities professor at Paradise Valley Community College. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek, 480488-2286, desertfoothillslibrary.org, free admission, registration required.

MARCH 20 to MARCH 22 10th Annual Stagecoach Village Art Festival This unique artisan market displays the works of more than 80 artists with the background of the beautiful rolling foothills of Cave Creek in this open-air village. This festival has a variety of works in mediums ranging from glass-blown sculptures and handcrafted furniture to paintings and photography. There will also be an outdoor dining patio with live music in the background for entertainment. Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, stagecoachvillagecc. com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., free admission.

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BUZZ • PHILANTHROPY In addition to crafting a Girl Scout Cookie dessert, Proof Canteen’s Lance Whipple will host Girl Scouts at his venue and show them how to work in a kitchen. (Photo courtesy Girl

Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council)

s t a e r T t Swee Girl Scout Cookie season comes to North Valley By Alison Bailin Batz

he tastiest time of the year—Girl Scout Cookie season—is back. Now through March 1, more than 10,000 girls in central and northern Arizona will walk around neighborhoods and booth in front of local stores learning entrepreneurial skills while selling cookies. “It is critical to note that Girl Scout Cookies are about far more than money and sweet treats,” says Tamara Woodbury, CEO of Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC). “The cookie program provides girls the skills they need to be fiscally savvy now, and to become successful, financially independent women.” The qualities that lead to successful entrepreneurship, like curiosity, confidence and innovation, are important for all types of academic and career success.There aren’t many organizations that help girls learn key

entrepreneurial skills, like business ethics and decision-making. Girl Scouting does, with the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world. The Thumb, who this year takes on the Thin Mint cookie in the Girl “Not only is every cookie Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge, has taken part in the program since its inception. (Photo courtesy Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council) sale a teachable moment, but because all proceeds stay local, girls are able to New for 2020 enjoy summer camp, robotics programs, field New this year, the council has honored trips and even adventures out of state in a safe North Valley resident Renee Parsons, environment,”Woodbury says. “Sales also president of PXG Apparel and co-founder of have the potential to impact the community, The Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation, as as troops reinvest their proceeds with service its first Cookie Boss.The Cookie Boss serves projects.” as an entrepreneurial role model and helps The council sold more than 2.8 million support Girl Scouts in the largest girl-led packages of cookies last year.This year’s goal is entrepreneurial program in the world.The Bob Continues on page 16 3 million packages.

14 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Celebrating

26 Years!

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BUZZ • PHILANTHROPY and Renee Parsons Foundation has been a vital partner to GSACPC, with its strong belief in Girl Scouts, commitment to the community and partnership in the Girl Scout Cookie program. Also new, the Girl Scouts unveiled another cookie in recent weeks: Lemon-Ups.They are crispy lemon cookies baked with inspiring messages and are available for $5 per box. These sweet treats join Thin Mints,Tagalongs, Samoas,Trefoils, Do-Si-Dos, Girl Scout S’mores ($6) and Toffee-tastics ($6)

Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge

And, while not new, the seventh annual Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge features chefs from across central and northern Arizona going head to head to create a winning dessert with one of the Girl Scout Cookie flavors including Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, Do-Si-Dos or Trefoils. The creation will be featured on their menus during February and, for the second year, GSACPC will offer an online poll for everyone to vote for their favorite.To vote, fans can visit girlscoutsaz.org/ Civana will do its part to support the Girl Scouts by participating in dessert-challenge.The dessert the seventh annual Girl Scout Cookie Dessert Challenge throughout with the most votes at the end February. (Photo courtesy Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council) of the challenge in central and Ocean Prime Phoenix northern Arizona regions will PHX Beer Co. – Scottsdale Restaurant each be crowned the 2020 Girl Scout Dessert Pitch Challenge Champion in early March. Prado at Omni Scottsdale Montelucia Resort A portion of proceeds are donated back to & Spa GSACPC, and some participants provide Proof, an American Canteen at Four Seasons cookie boothing space on their property. Resort Scottsdale Troon North The friendly competition provides a great opportunity for local businesses to support and Rusconi’s American Kitchen Sicilian Baker inspire future entrepreneurs—Girl Scouts! Sushi Roku Participating locations across the North Terras at Civana Wellness Resort & Spa Valley include: (Hotel/Resort) The District Aioli Gourmet Burgers The Herb Box – 5th Avenue Different Point of View at Pointe Hilton The Scottsdale Plaza Resort – JD’s Lounge Tapatio Cliffs Resort (Hotel/Resort) Eggstasy The Thumb Famous 48 The Vig McDowell Mountain Ironwood American Kitchen at the Fairmont Timbers Tacos at Great Wolf Lodge Arizona Scottsdale Princess (Hotel/Resort) Lovecraft ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho Luna Gelateria Girl Scouts will also set up temporary Malee’s Thai Bistro “shops” in front of local businesses and other Modern Oysterbar Chophouse 16 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Girls across the North Valley will booth near you throughout February. (Photo courtesy

Girl Scouts–Arizona CactusPine Council)

locations like sporting events, churches and community events to sell cookies. Partner booth locations this year include: Fry’s Marketplace, Bashas’, Safeway, Joann Fabric and Craft Stores, Walmart, Sam’s Club and Goodwill.

Where does cookie money go?

100% of GSACPC Cookie proceeds stay local to benefit Girl Scouting in Arizona. Girl Scout Cookies’ proceeds stay local to: • Help girls fund local Girl Scouts’ Take Action projects for the community and girl-led adventures for troops. • Cover the cost of running the Girl Scout Cookie Program, including the costs of cookies, materials and logistics. • Help GSACPC provide Girl Scout programs in STEM, the outdoors, life skills and entrepreneurship, as well as camps, leadership training and more. • Maintain and improve the four local camp properties and the financial assistance that keeps Girl Scouting available and affordable for all girls. Girl Scout Cookie entrepreneurs also earn rewards on their individual sales.They can choose to receive incentive prizes or “Program Credits” that can be used to help pay for summer camp, membership dues, travel and other programs and events. Visit girlscoutsaz.org/cookiefinder to find cookies near you.

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BUZZ • FUN

Fire A

INSIDE

Model Erin Naas can’t live without her Arabian horses

Erin Naas is a supermodel and actress who has shown horses and competed throughout her years in Los Angeles and North Scottsdale.

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

rin Naas was born obsessed with horses. From the time she could walk or talk, Naas and her mom attended Mommy and Me riding lessons in her home state of California. “I would ride sassy, little bad ponies and she would trot along next to us, leading me,” Naas says with a laugh. “That’s how I started, and I’ve ridden ever since.” A supermodel and actress, Naas has shown horses and competed throughout her years in Los Angeles and North Scottsdale, where she currently resides. Her love is Arabian horses. Horse owners like Naas will show their Arabians at the 65th annual Arabian Horse Show from Thursday, February 13, to Sunday, February 23, at WestWorld of Scottsdale.

The show brings to WestWorld more than 2,400 Arabian horses, all of whom will vie for the title of Scottsdale Champion, with more than $3 million in prize money handed out. The horse show is a rite of passage for Taryl O’Shea, who is in her 22nd year as the executive director of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, which hosts the event. Last year’s edition drew 302,600 patrons, generating $98 million in economic impact, according to O’Shea. “I think it’s shocking to a lot of people the impact that the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show has on the community,” O’Shea says. “When they look at events like the Waste Management Open and Barrett-Jackson, they don’t realize that the horse show, it’s 11 days. But the horses come in a week prior to the start of the horse show to acclimate,

18 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

because they come from all over the world. “Which means that people are renting homes or staying in hotels, eating in restaurants, shopping in our stores.” O’Shea believes the 2020 version of the event, which features more than 350 booths full of unique items, ranging from saddles to gifts, artwork and trinkets, is a can’t-miss attraction for horse enthusiasts of all ages. “It’s just a really big versatile horse show that people love to come and just see all the things these horses can do,” O’Shea says. “Arabian horses are the oldest known breed of domesticated horse in the world, and a lot of other breeds are derived from them. So, you’ve got collectors that appreciate the history, the beauty and the versatility of the breed. “So, this horse has a magnetic appeal to many cultures and many people because of

BUZZ • FUN the story that it tells throughout the ages.” The tie between Arabian horses and Scottsdale runs deep, according to O’Shea, with families like the Wrigleys and the Chaunceys bringing the breed to the desert almost a century ago. O’Shea delved into a brief history of the breed and its path to the Wild West, tracing back to a surplus of horses owned by the Polish government that were sold to several families in the area. “It’s a long story, but basically Arabians are a breed that hail from the desert,” she says. “And so, when the horses were brought here, they acclimated to Scottsdale and the desert very well. It was kind of a no-brainer for these other families to start buying and importing these horses.” Fast forward a century, and that relationship is still going strong, with the annual horse show being the main outlet to showcase the breed. O’Shea says she expects high rollers from as far away as Australia and the Middle East to jet-set to Scottsdale Airport, where their various private jets will be parked during their stay in the desert. The event is for everyone. General admission tickets are $10, with $7 admission for seniors and military, and no cost for children under the age of 12. There will be a host of free activities to entertain younger patrons, such as ice cream socials, ceramic horse painting, art contests, barn tours and, of course, opportunities to meet Arabian horses. There’s something for everybody at the February festival, according to O’Shea, speaking to the tenets that have kept her with the organization for more than two decades. “What I love most about my role is that I get to sit on committees and work with the Tourism Advisory Commission in attracting people to Scottsdale,” O’Shea says. “I think our show is only one factor that helps drive tourism here in Scottsdale. So, I’m proud of that. But these horses, they’re just amazing.”

Arabian beauties

Naas acquired her first Arabian when she was 10. It was a riding horse. At 17, she bought a mare with the money she made from modeling around the world. Naas has modeled for Victoria’s Secret, Maxim and Sports Illustrated, and starred

Erin Naas loves the beauty of Arabian horses, whom she keeps on a North Scottsdale ranch.

in commercials for Pepsi. She appeared on Howie Mandel’s “Deal or No Deal.” Naas loves the beauty of Arabian horses, whom she keeps on a sprawling ranch in North Scottsdale with her husband, Jay Grdina. “I love the history of the breed,” Naas says. “I love the relationship they develop with their owner or caretaker. They are very personal horses. When you develop a bond with an Arabian, it’s different than any other horse. I just fell in love with the mystery and the mystique around them.” Naas studied the pedigrees, the history and how the breed has evolved. Her reading material of choice as a child was Arabian Horse World Magazine. A breeder bequeathed Naas her entire magazine collection from the ’50s onward. “They were like giant manuals just filled with all of the breeds,” Naas says. “I learned what to look for and what made a great Arabian. I started reading those when I was probably 7.” Naas says the Scottsdale show is special because there are multiple arenas with different disciplines simultaneously vying

for titles. The vendors are just as striking. “They have anything you can think of like amazing clothing and beautiful coats,” Naas says. “Then there’s beautiful tack horse equipment and supplies. “It’s really a horse lover’s dream. The horses are set free in the arena to music and the audience goes crazy for their favorite horse. In the Liberty class, the horses are electrifying, and their tails are flagging and their nostrils are flaring. It’s definitely an exciting breed. “Arabians really draw in people who have maybe never been around horses or aren’t familiar with horses. They don’t just stand there with their heads down. They are alert and excitable, yet also kind and manageable. It’s really a unique breed with a fire in them.” Arabian Horse Show Various times Thursday, February 13, to Sunday, February 23 WestWorld, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale Tickets start at $10 scottsdaleshow.com

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 19

BUZZ • OUTTAKES

Coyotes players pose for a shot before the charity evening began. Goalie Darcy Kuemper entertains his guests.

Celebrity Waiters Photos by Janelle Etzel

rizona Coyotes players traded their hockey sticks for serving trays on January 27 at the team’s Celebrity Waiters event at Maple & Ash in Scottsdale. Hockey headliners served food and wine as patrons dished about the 20192020 season. A cocktail reception, dinner and silent and live auctions benefited the Arizona Coyotes Foundation, which funds charities that help kids and first responders.

Lawson Crouse hugs Claire Stewart.

Derek Stepan channels Tom Cruise in “Cocktail” with a few tricks.

Auction items included bottles of wine, autographed items and Arizona Coyotes memorabilia.

Oliver Ekman-Larsson breaks for an interview.

Ilya Lybushkin smiles for the camera.

Vinnie Hinostroza tries his hand at pouring drinks.

President and CEO Ahron Cohen speaks to the crowd.

20 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Clayton Keller, Jakob Chychrun and Christian Dvorak pose for a photo.

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BUZZ • NEWS By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Ascension Lutheran Church installs new pastor

The Rev. Randy L. Winsand is the new pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church. (Submitted photo)

The Rev. Randy L. Winsand was formally installed to the oﬃce of pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church by the Rev. Deborah K. Hutterer, bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Winsand comes to Ascension from Resurrection Lutheran Church in Oro Valley, where he served first as outreach minister and then as executive pastor. He completed his Master of Divinity in 2013 at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, and prior to the seminary was the administrator of an assisted-living facility near Milwaukee. He served as solo pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Luckey, Ohio, before his time at Resurrection. Ascension is located at 7100 N. Mockingbird Lane in Paradise Valley. Info: ascensionparadisevalley.org

Garden insects subject of talk Gardening educator Carol Stuttard will discuss the vital role insects play in the local ecology during a Saturday, February 8, talk at Carefree Desert Gardens. Stuttard brought her love of gardening with her when she was transplanted from England to Phoenix. She was certified as a master gardener in 2001 and completed numerous advanced training courses. In 2006, Stuttard was certified as a desert landscape designer through Desert Botanical Garden, where she is a horticultural instructor. She is an adjunct professor in Mesa

Community College’s horticulture department. Stuttard has been on PBS and had her own show on Channel 11, Scottsdale for vegetable gardening. She has a desert gardening blog at frommygardentoyou. blogspot.com. The program, usually including a plant raffle, will run from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Town Council Chambers, 33 Easy Street and Nonchalant Avenue, Carefree. A $5—or more—donation is appreciated to support these programs. For information, call 480-488-3686.

The Vig Restaurants give back $91K in 2019 to charities The Vig Restaurants, owned by Genuine Concepts LLC, donated substantial funds throughout 2019 in support of local charities, schools and other organizations. Every month, The Vig Restaurants present a “community handle” with a corresponding brewery to offer support to local organizations with a percentage of sales being donated to the charity. Some of the year’s most successful handles included a donation of $5,536 during the month of January in conjunction with Lumberyard Brewing and Hazy Angel

IPA in encouragement to Welcome to America (wtap.org), a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting refugees by providing personal, meaningful connections and sharing transportation, technology and transformational resources to enhance success. In October, the fundraiser with Mother Road Brewery’s Daily Driver IPA raised $1,956 in funds in support of Chrysalis (noabuse.org) preventing domestic abuse; while in July, Huss Brewery’s Raspberry Wheat raised $1,954 in support of the Pride Foundation (pridefoundation.org) expanding

22 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

opportunities to advance full equality for LGBTQ people across the Northwest. In September, The Vig Gives program held a contest for local schools that gave a local winner (Copper Ridge School in the Scottsdale school district) $868.42 and $500 in gift cards. Other school sponsorship donations totaled $6,342 throughout the year while various gift card donations were offered to charities for fundraisers and galas. Genuine Concepts LLC gave $91,657.84 during 2019 to deserving organizations and schools.

Continues on page 24

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BUZZ • NEWS Cave Creek Museum celebrates 50th anniversary with Gerry Jones The Cave Creek Museum is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the featured exhibit “The Legacy of Gerry Jones” and a tour of six signature Jones homes on Sunday, March 8. A veteran of the U.S. Marines, Jones is a seasoned rock climber and knows the land well. He laid out roads and lots by leading bulldozers across the land as he wove around native cactus, rocks, outcroppings and trees. He utilized existing rocks and boulders structurally as supports for the foundations of his buildings and interior features of the spaces he created, bringing bedrock into dwelling spaces and placing homeowners into the living desert. Tickets for the home tour are $75 and available only in advance through the Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Drive. Participants will visit the homes via chauffeured buses in three shifts: 9 a.m. to noon; noon to 3 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. The residences are multilevel and not ADA accessible. Good walking shoes are highly recommended. For more information, call 480-488-2764 or visit cavecreekmuseum.org. This seasonlong celebration of Jones is supported by a grant from the Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation.

Kiwanis Western Night is back Kiwanis Western Night returns to Frontier Town in Cave Creek on Saturday, March 7, with gourmet cowboy food, open-bar drinking, dancing and silent and live auctions. The event benefits the Kiwanis Club’s educational and charitable activities in the area. Info: desertdimons@cox.net or 480488-7912

NVSO to host “All That Jazz: A Roaring ’20s Golden Gala” North Valley Symphony Orchestra is hosting its annual gala fundraiser, “All That Jazz: A Roaring ’20s Golden Gala,” on Saturday, February 22, at Sheraton Crescent, 2620 W. Dunlap Avenue, hoenix. NVSO is a nonprofit community orchestra encompassing an adult orchestra and three youth ensembles. All NVSO musicians are volunteers who share a passion to rehearse and perform exceptional orchestral music for the North Valley. This event will feature live jazz by awardwinning variety entertainer Brian Foley. Guests will participate in “The Symphony Builder’s Variety Hour” radio program and can dance. Roaring ’20s-themed dress is

highly encouraged. Attendees will have a variety of silent auction items to consider—a violin handmade for the event by Jody Summerford; spa packages; original artwork and themed baskets. Guests can donate dollars to take photos with Model-T Fords and Charlie Chaplin. The event begins with cocktails at 5:30, giving guests the opportunity to browse silent auction items and listen to NVSO musicians perform before dinner is served. Event tickets are $100 and include one cocktail, dinner and one raffle ticket. For reservations, visit northvalleysymphony.org.

Luxury garage storage company to expand Thanks to a new partnership with Brycon Construction, The Toy Barn—a luxury storage room for boats, hot rods or classic cars—will expand throughout the East Valley and North Phoenix. “We are excited to be able to offer these two areas unique options for storage,” says Jason Phillips, co-owner and founder of The Toy Barn. “We know partnering with Brycon is going to help produce top-quality construction and keep us on track for opening next fall.” The Chandler Toy Barn, located at 2165 S. Douglas Drive, broke ground in December. The location’s three buildings will include 66 units ranging from 1,000 square feet to 3,000 square feet, providing owners ample opportunity to store their vehicles and customize their units. The second new Toy Barn, at 31606 N. Cave Creek Road in Phoenix, will have 59 units covering 66,000 square feet. This location will offer floor plans ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 square feet. This location will also offer covered parking

options for purchase. All Toy Barn units feature minimum 18-foot ceilings, heavy-duty garage doors and standard entry and exit doors. Units are also equipped to be climate controlled and have Wi-Fi capabilities, plumbing and opportunities for personalization such as added lofted space, unique paint colors or built-in kitchens and bathrooms. Each Toy Barn has a clubhouse with lounge seating, kitchen space and communal gathering areas for socializing or private events, helping to promote bonding in the community. Toy Barn units are privately owned, similar to a condominium, and governed by CC&Rs and an owner’s association. Prices range from $185,000 to $570,000. The first Toy Barn opened 10 years ago to meet demand from downsizing homeowners or people who could use more space for their “toys.” Toy Barn has three locations in Scottsdale and Phoenix. For more information, visit toybarnstorage.com.

Koi Poke sells six Valley locations to national franchisor Koi Poke founder Sarah Bowers sold six of Koi Poke’s seven Valley locations to a private equity group headed up by Todd Stottlemyre. The group will also be the exclusive franchisor for all future North American locations. The Stottlemyre group will wholly own and operate the locations in Arcadia, The Shops at Gainey Village, The Plant in Chandler and the Scottsdale Waterfront, as well as two locations

at Park West in Peoria, and Norterra, which are opening soon. Bowers and her original investors will retain sole ownership of the flagship Koi Poke Bar and Bowl location at DC Ranch Crossing in North Scottsdale. The Stottlemyre group-owned locations will be modified slightly in name and concept under the Koibito Poke brand in 2020. “I am so proud of everyone at Koi Poke who

24 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

worked so hard to make this happen and I am thrilled that Todd and his group are going to take what we have created and make it a national brand,” Bowers says. “At the same time, I am also committed to maintaining the integrity of the original concept at DC Ranch and continue to serve all of our amazing and loyal guests that have been with us from the very beginning.” Info: contactinfo@koibitopoke.com.

FRESH • ARTS

Travel Essentials Slipper socks and hand sanitizer are must-haves on winter trips By Annika Tomlin

Traveling is fun for everyone, but it can be a burden on your body as you age. Thankfully, there are items out there will help ease the process of traveling. Check out these products that can allow for smooth sailing Dr. Segal’s Travel Compression Socks

While everyone loves to travel, no one loves long plane or car rides. For your next trip, make sure to add Dr. Segal’s Compression Socks to your checklist of travel essentials.These socks come in 23 different styles. Many studies show wearing compression socks during travel

Boostit

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Keep germs away with this Frequent Traveler’s Kit full of hand sanitizer infused with eucalyptus. Elyptol contains the healing properties of eucalyptus oil combined with naturally sourced pure ethanol to bring you a healthy and ecofriendly way to properly sanitize your skin and other surfaces. Infused with natural botanicals and eucalyptus essential oils, Elyptol won’t leave your hands dry, cracked and chapped after use. These innovative products kill germs and moisturize your hand all in one. Info: elyptol.com, $19.99

Doctor Plotka’s Travel Toothbrush effectively reduces the risk of developing blood clots and they increase comfort by reducing swelling and leg pain. Dr. Segal’s Energy Socks improve energy, reduce unnecessary pain and swelling, and decrease the risk of varicose veins and blood clots by increasing blood circulation. Info: drsegals.com, $29.99

your carry-on bag, is TSA approved and will help fight off the germs you encounter while traveling. Info: itspray.com, $24.99

This amazing travel brush is foldable for easy storage and will provide that extra clean feeling while away. Embedded with silver technology to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria build-up for up to six hours after brushing, you can keep those germs away while you show off your pearly whites all year long. Info: mouthwatchers.com, $5.99

Pudus Slipper Socks

Wrap your feet in warmth and comfort for your next vacation with one of these cozy Slipper Socks for Men & Women. Featuring extra-fluffy Sherpa lining and nonslip grippers, Pudus’ Slipper Sock collection of 75 trendy styles one-size-fitsmost design makes lounging in the hotel something for everyone. Info: ilovemypudus, $24.99 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 25

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FRESH • ARTS

Celebrating

the Best in Film

"The Keeper"

Sedona festival honors Rob Reiner and Leslie Uggams By Jordan Houston

irector Josh Aronson knew his latest documentary, “To Be of Service,” might not appeal to everyone. In his heart, he felt it needed to be done. The award-winning director’s 88-minute independent film, which will be featured in this year’s Sedona International Film Festival, chronicles the complex stories of war veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the healing powers of their service dogs. "And Then We Danced" “To Be of Service” explores how America neglects a deep obligation to assimilate soldiers back into civilian society, Aronson explains, while challenging political leaders to think of solutions outside of war. “It’s not designed for a wide audience or mainstream audiences of people going to movies looking for entertainment,” he says. “It’s not a nice, feel-good date movie. It will take you to places you’ve likely never been before.” After years of substance abuse, suicide attempts, talk therapy and prescription medications, Aronson shows how 11 Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans gain back their independence and emotion through four-legged companionships with highly trained service dogs. The director, known for his Oscar-nominated documentary “Sound of Fury,” says he hopes his new piece will inspire viewers to support legislation requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs to fund service dogs as treatment for PTSD. The only avenues for elder vets to secure their lifelong pets are through “extraordinary personal effort” and scholarship programs. “These dogs are trained and have specific "How About Adolf" NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 27

FRESH • ARTS commands,” Aronson says. “But the most important part of the healing is the 24/7, one-on-one relationship that begins to feel like unconditional love—from dog to the vet, and the vet to the dog.” “No matter the shame or guilt, the dog is there and loves you,” he continues. “To Be of Service” is just one of more than 160 independent films to be showcased at the 26th annual Sedona International Film Festival, which runs from Saturday, February 22, to Sunday, March 1. Coming off a record-breaking year, SIFF will launch its next quarter century with nine days of compelling films, workshops, events and special guests. But it’s films like Aronson’s, says SIFF Executive Director Patrick Schweiss, that make the crowd-drawing event so exceptional. “It’s this really wonderful gathering of the film industry. People get to see films they wouldn’t normally get to see,” he says. “They’re either brand-new indie films that haven’t made it to the theater yet or films that might not ever.” Cinephiles will have the chance to delve into an array of features, shorts, documentaries, animation, foreign and student films carefully selected from a pool of 1,400. Through the work of a 30-member screening committee comprised of “all walks of life,” the festival assures quality cinematography, acting, screenplay and, most importantly, storytelling. “When we watch, we ask, ‘Are you inspired or entertained? Are you angered or are you moved in some way? Is it emotional?’” Schweiss explains. “We seek to bring awareness, understanding and culture through film, and to unify people and open dialogue.” Among the films selected for screening this year are three documentaries nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature: “For Sama,” “The Cave” and “Honeyland,” as well as the Oscar-shortlisted Best International Film contenders “Those Who Remained” and “Portrait of a Lady on Fire.” On opening day, the festival will celebrate Black History Month with a tribute to actress and singer Leslie Uggams at the Sedona Performing Arts Center. The nod will include clips from the iconic TV series “Roots,” based on Alex Haley’s 1976 novel, in which Uggams

earned Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominations for her performance as Kizzy. Former “Roots” co-star Kim Fields, also known for her nine-year stint as “Tootie” on the NBC sitcom “The Facts of Life,” will join as a special guest. “We’re honoring Alex Haley’s life and the impact it had on America, on society and on understanding the plight of the African American person and family,” Schweiss says. Actress and singer Lainie Kazan will return to the festival that same day to introduce the 2019 film “Shepherd: The Story of a Jewish Dog,” written and directed by Lynn Roth. Based on Asher Kravitz’s award-winning Israeli novel “The Jewish Dog,” the film tells the story of Kaleb, a beloved German Shepherd who gets separated from his family during the Nuremberg Laws in WWII Berlin. On February 28, festivalgoers can scope out a special presentation by Bella Gaia, a NASA-powered immersive experience. The live concert, which mixes music, dance and interstellar imagery, was inspired by astronauts who spoke of the lifechanging power of seeing Earth from space, Schweiss says. Emmy-winning and Oscar- and Golden Globe-nominated actor, director and producer Rob Reiner—responsible for smash hits like “The Princess Bride,” “When Harry Met Sally” and “Stand By Me”—will receive the festival’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award on February 29. Dubbed as having one of the longest and most golden runs in film directing history, Reiner will be recognized for his work both in front of and behind the camera, says Schweiss, and for his commitment to the art of indie filmmaking. “It’s really for someone who has had significant contributions to world and art of independent filmmaking,” he says. “Rob is a well-known actor, but has become very accomplished behind the camera directing some of the biggest films in the last two generations.” A special screening of Reiner’s Oscarnominated film “The American President,” a romantic comedy about a widowed U.S. president running for re-election who falls in love with an environmental lobbyist, will also be played in his honor. For those interested in learning more about the ins and the outs of the industry, “Game of Thrones” writer Bryan Cogman

28 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Rob Reiner will be honored during the Sedona International Film Festival. (Submitted photo)

will headline the week of workshops and roundtables. A final listing of all the films and showtimes will be announced at the end of the month. All-access and priority passes are available through the organization’s website at sedonafilmfestival.org. Platinum All-Access Priority Passes include access to all festival activities, films, events and parties, as well as priority seating. The price for SIFF members is $1,193 and $1,325 for nonmembers. Holders will be able to select films beginning at 9 a.m. February 3, while 10and 20-ticket pass holders can select films beginning February 10. Individual tickets, $15, go on sale to the general public on February 17. Sedona International Film Festival Harkins Sedona 6 Theatre, 2081 W. State Route 89A Mary D. Fisher Theatre, 2030 W. Highway 89A Sedona Performing Arts Center, 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road Various times Saturday, February 22, to Sunday, March 1 Individual tickets, $15, go on sale to the general public on February 17; packages available sedonafilmfestival.com

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Western Week Events: ScottsdaleWesternWeek.com Feb. 7 • 11am - 1pm • FREE 62nd Annual Hashknife Pony Express & Food Truck Round-Up Museum of the West/Marshall Way Feb. 1 • 2pm-3pm Maynard Dixon Art & Spirit Museum of the West Feb. 5 • 1pm - 3pm Wyatt Earp: A Life on the Frontier Museum of the West Feb. 6 • 6:30pm to 9pm • FREE Gold Palette ArtWalk: Western Spirit Arts District Feb. 7 • 9:30am - 5pm • FREE Museum of the West Museum of the West

Feb. 7 • 6pm - 10pm Parada del Sol Rodeo Kick-Off Party Parada del Sol Museum, Brown & 2nd St Feb. 8 • 8am - 1pm Farmers Market Old Town-Brown Avenue

Feb. 8 • 12pm - 4pm Parada del Sol Parade Trail’s End Festival Old Town Scottsdale Feb. 8 • 10am - 6pm Arizona Indian Festival Scottsdale Civic Center Mall - West Lawn Feb. 8 • 10am - 10pm Parada del Sol Rodeo Kick-Off Party Parada del Sol Museum, Brown & 2nd St

Feb. 8 • 9:30am - 5pm • FREE Museum of the West Museum of the West

Feb. 8 • 6pm - 9pm Arizona Native Edible Experience Museum of the West

Feb. 8 • 10am - 12pm • FREE 67th Annual Parada del Sol Parade Old Town Scottsdale

Feb. 9 • 10am - 4pm Arizona Indian Festival Scottsdale Civic Center Mall - West Lawn

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 29

FRESH • ARTS Lloyd Cole’s latest album, “Guesswork,” features two members of the Commotions. (Submitted photo)

CAUSING A COMMOTION Lloyd Cole traces his career with a retrospective show at the MIM By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

loyd Cole and the Commotions found success with their 1984 debut album, “Rattlesnakes.” Since then, Cole has continually reimagined his career. Born in Buxton, England, Cole moved to New York to reinvent himself after a series of albums and tours with the Commotions. Arizona fans will get the rare chance to see a retrospective of his career during his show at the Musical Instrument Museum on Thursday, February 13. “I haven’t been to Phoenix in ages,” Cole says. “I think I’ve only played in Phoenix two or three times ever. I remember playing there in 1994 in a club and there was a Plexiglass wall down the middle separating the 21 and olders from the younger ones.” Cole doesn’t know what to expect with the MIM, but he’s hoping they’ll have “old synthesizers they might let me play with.” Seriously, the tour’s title is pretty telling: “From Rattlesnakes to Guesswork.” It’s just Cole and a guitar playing songs from 1983 through today. “They are the songs I think are strong enough to stand up without a band or orchestra behind them,” Cole says. “I’ve been lucky to find out most of the songs I’ve wanted to play are strong enough.

“There have been times when you take the production out and there’s not really much of a song there. It doesn’t happen very often.” Knowing he hasn’t played Phoenix in decades, his set list will be different from other cities’ dates. It will include the hits. “The thing that is better about the solo show compared to a duo or a band show is if I decide to do something on the spur of the moment, I can,” he says. “Other shows have to be rehearsed. With a band, you can’t do stuff like that. You need to have a set list. If somebody in Phoenix yells out for a certain song and I know how to play it, I will.” Cole admits he’s a little down his 2019 album, “Guesswork,” didn’t fare as well in the United States as it did in the United Kingdom. But the collection— which includes an appearance by the Commotions’ Neil Clark and Blair Cowan—has sold better than his previous records have in the United States. “That’s not saying very much,” he adds. “There hasn’t been the media exposure I was expecting to get. There are probably a lot of fans out there who don’t know the record’s even out. “The model for making music these days is the opposite of the model we had when we started. We went on tour to

30 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

promote records and made money from selling records. We now need an excuse to go on tour. Touring is where we make our money. The add-on, these days, is when I go on tour, I usually have my current record for sale at the concerts. I sell a lot of them and it enables me to get new music into the people’s hands, which is important to me.” He adds that this can have a chain reaction. “If they like it and they enjoy the concert, there’s a good chance they’ll come back,” he says. “If they like it, they might share it with their social-media friends. When you spend so much energy making the record, it can be deflating to realize you’re selling more concert tickets than albums. “I’m using the concerts to get the music into people’s hands—even if it’s not profitable. The most important thing for me is for people to have the music.” Lloyd Cole 7:30 p.m. Thursday, February 13 Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix $44.50-$54.50 480-478-6000, mim.org

FRESH • TRAVEL In Park City, resorts like the Waldorf Astoria sparkle as bright as the snow. (Photo courtesy Waldorf Astoria Park City)

Over the Hill Snowy escapes with ski, snowboard adventures for all By Alison Bailin Batz

ow through April marks ski season in the United States. And while Arizona does boast some excellent mountains— especially Snowbowl in Flagstaff and Sunrise in Greer—just a short flight away are some of the world’s top ski mountains in Breckenridge, Park City and Vail.

Breckenridge

Located about 90 minutes from Denver, Breckenridge is a small town with major bragging rights. It is known for promising over 100 winter activities for people of all ages. And, the tourism department is not just giving lip service. Once a small mining town—one inadvertently left off the U.S. map until the mid-1950s—Breckenridge sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains and averages 300 days of sunshine and 300 inches of snow yearly. Beyond even skiing and snowboarding, visitors can snowmobile, dog sled, snowshoe, tour the world’s highest distillery in Breckenridge Distillery, and ride horses in the snow. The region made global headlines in recent months with the debut of Gravity Haus Breckenridge. Replacing the former Village Hotel at the base of Breckenridge

Each snowy escape is suitable for all levels of ski or snowboarder, from novice to professional. (Photo courtesy Park City Mountain)

Ski Resort’s Peak Nine, the renovated and tech-forward ski-in/ski-out boutique property debuted December, with 60 distinctly curated rooms. Featuring a modern alpine design, accommodations include private queen and king suites and combination suites featuring bunks and private sleeping areas for families and

groups. Designed to activate like-minded outdoor enthusiasts year-round, Gravity Haus offers ongoing insider experiences ranging from outdoor excursions to social programming. On-site amenities include the Dryland Fitness and Sports Recovery Center; Backcountry Discovery Center; StarterHaus, a new coworking space by NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 31

Jim Deters; farm-to-cup Unravel Coffee; nourishing dining at Cabin Juice; and a Japanese onsen, a bathhouse featuring four hot tubs, one cold tub and a dry sauna.

Whether with kids or not, romance is easy at these heavenly winter escapes. (Photo courtesy Vail Resort)

Park City

Park City, which is located about 30 miles from Salt Lake City in Utah, was also once a mining town and at one time ran the risk of becoming a ghost town until savvy marketers realized the potential for tourism. Once it was marketed as “The Greatest Snow on Earth,” (a play on the tagline of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus), people from all over the world flocked to the winter paradise. With 330 trails, 43 lifts and eight terrain parks across its 7,300 skiable acres, Park City Mountain is the largest ski resort in the United States. It is among the best places in the country to take ski or snowboard school or to test out one’s skills. Beyond the slopes, Park City boasts a zip line adventure, a snow toboggan called the Alpine Coaster, snowmobile tours and sleigh rides. For history buffs, there is the Silver to Slopes Historic Mining Tour, a free, guided ski tour taking guests of all ages on an exploration of the region’s rich and colorful past. Park City also excels at all things après ski—the term for the entertainment following a day on the slopes—destinations in the world. There are 16 restaurants on the mountain. Of particular note: fine dining at the award-winning Farm Restaurant, which offers seasonal menus celebrating locally sourced, sustainable cuisine, and the newly opened Tombstone BBQ, which was formerly a food truck but was so lauded for its house-smoked meats and homemade sauces that it built a permanent home last year. There is no shortage of “wow” resorts and hotels in the area, but of particular note is the

Waldorf Astoria Park City and Montage Deer Valley. At the pet-friendly Waldorf, luxury is taken to new heights, as it has its own ski valet and slope-side access to Park City Mountain. There are fire pits, a heated pool and hot tubs, including an adults-only hot tub. Beyond this, it boasts a spectacular 16,000-square-foot Waldorf Astoria Spa and signature restaurant, Powder, with to-die-for sustainable, local and seasonal dishes. Montage Deer Valley is meant to evoke a great mountain lodge from days gone by, but with all the updates one wants and needs today. It’s located atop Empire Pass, so it has ski-in/ski-out access and features the largest spa in Utah.

Vail

Like Breckenridge, Vail is just a few hours outside of Denver, Colorado. Yet,

After a day on the slopes, there are dozens of spas in each snowy escape to ensure total relaxation. (Photo courtesy Waldorf Astoria Park City)

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with its small villages and lovely resort and restaurant offerings—not to mention the iconic Vail Mountain and its 5,300 acres of skiable terrain—it feels like you are in another world. Those with kids can take advantage of Adventure Ridge, a playland with ski bikes, a kids’ snowmobile track, snow tubing lanes and more. It’s also heaven on earth for experienced ski and snowboarders, thanks to its back bowl (aka the ski roads less traveled) and private experiences. And, for couples, after a day on the slopes, there are curated experiences, notably Game Creek, which is a private chalet restaurant only accessible via snowcat or gondola. As for accommodations, less than a year ago Vail welcomed its first Grand Hyatt Vail, a ski-in/ski-out resort overlooking a creek, which features Native American art and offers multimillion-dollar rental residences on property. In addition, the Vail Marriott Mountain Resort recently unveiled a transformation with new guest rooms, suites and condos with new beds, artwork, lighting, flooring and amenities. The heated outdoor pool overlooks Vail Mountain, and bike rentals on property make quick jaunts to the nearby Lionshead Village, which is completely closed off to cars and buses, or Arrabelle Square and its outdoor ice rink, shops and restaurants even more convenient. Other amazing options for winter escapes in the Western United States include Lake Tahoe in California, Jackson Hole in Wyoming, Telluride in Colorado and Sun Valley in Idaho.

Ar t

IMMERSION Scottsdale’s Celebration of Fine Art turns 30 this year

By Sherry Jackson

love of art and a vision to bring an immersive experience to patrons in Scottdale led show founders Tom and Ann Morrow to create the Celebration of Fine Art, now celebrating its 30th year. The show runs through Sunday, March 29, under its signature “big white tents” at Hayden Road and the Loop 101. It’s Arizona’s longest-running art show. Inspired by the Laguna Beach Festival of Art in California, the Morrows wanted to give Valley art lovers an alternative way to experience art and to interact with artists. Together, the husbandand-wife team launched the Celebration of Fine Art in 1990 with approximately 100 fine-art artists displaying and creating their works. In 2004, Tom’s daughter, Susan Morrow Potje, and her husband, Jake, took over to carry on the family tradition. “Dad was a serial entrepreneur and wanted to bring artists together in a completely different way for people to experience and buy art,” says Morrow Potje, who serves as the co-owner and show director. “In 1989, (when the idea was first discussed), it was a very foreign idea for Scottsdale.”

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 33

The 10-week show is considered one of the premier art shows in the West, giving visitors access to watch the more than 100 artists work on their craft as well as view their creations. It’s part gallery, part working studio and part art show—all set in an upscale and interactive environment. “We’ve grown from being locally known to being known worldwide now in the art world,” Morrow Potje says. “We just keep plugging along and building our reputation for quality art.” The white tents encompass 40,000 square feet of art surrounded by an acre of landscaped sculpture garden featuring outdoor art. Guests can also see woodturning, welding, kiln firings and bronze pouring demonstrations weekly. “At first, the big white tent was for rain shelter and it was the largest tent west of the Mississippi,” Morrow Potje says. “Now, it provides an intimate setting for visitors to be absorbed by the art surrounding them.” Artists come from all over the country, and the show features a variety of styles and mediums. Festival organizers provide a basic studio shell and then artists can customize their own studio space. “You really feel the difference as your go from studio to studio,” Morrow Potje says. In recent years, there’s been a trend

toward more contemporary and abstract art, but Western and traditional art are still going strong, she says. Several artists have been with the show since the beginning, and artists who get juried are invited to come back the following year. About 15% to 20% of the artists are new to the show. “It’s a beautiful mix of high-quality art with artists in the top percentile,” Morrow Potje says. “The dynamics and camaraderie of the artists create a rich community that’s supportive and happy for each other.”

Artists are encouraged to create their art in their makeshift studios throughout the event, providing visitors a close look at how they create their art. Pieces range from canvas art to jewelry, to glass blowing and more. At a previous year’s show, a sculptor brought a large, clay monumental warrior he was working on. It graced the show’s entryway the following year and was later sold to the CEO and founder of Bass Pro Shops for installation at Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri.

CELEBRATION OF FINE ART BY THE NUMBERS

1.5

million — the number of people from around the world who have attended the Celebration’s recognizable “big white tents” over the past 30 years 34 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

40,000

the square footage of the massive, white tents the artists’ work is displayed under during the event

100

the number of juried artists who converge in Scottsdale to set up their working studio and display their works of art

Special exhibitions and events are held throughout the 10-week Fine Art show, and a cafe is open daily for artists and visitors. Attendance has grown dramatically in the past 30 years, with average annual attendance of more than 50,000 visitors. According to a recent survey, most out-of-town visitors stay 16 days, more than twice the median stay of the average Scottsdale visitor. Celebration of Fine Art is also a strong partner in the community, with local fundraisers supporting free arts for abused children.

the number of years the Celebration of Fine Art has been successful in creating a space for artists and art lovers to connect

An Art After Dark event and closing party is held the last Friday of the show. On Fridays during the show, an art discovery series delves more in-depth into a different art topic each week. “It makes for a lively discussion,” Morrow Potje says. “It’s taking different topics and art and elevating the discussion.” The Celebration of Fine Art show is geared toward not just art collectors, but those interested in art and even first timers. “We’re just trying to make it the best ever,” Morrow Potje says. “We want people to walk away energized and enlightened

the number of weeks the show spans, from January 18 to March 29

and to experience something that they don’t get to every day.” Celebration of Fine Art 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to Sunday, March 29 Under the white tents at Hayden Road and Loop 101 in Scottsdale $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military, children younger than 12 are admitted at no charge.The Celebration of Fine Art ticket is an all-event pass that is good for all 10 weeks celebrateart.com

the number of art shows in Arizona that provide people from all walks of life the rare opportunity to watch art develop and interact with the artists NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 35

Let the Good Times Roll North Valley real estate market churns along By Christopher Boan

ndrew Bloom has seen a lot of real estate boom periods in the North Valley, but nothing like what’s ongoing in the region. Bloom, who founded the Bloom Van Omen Luxury Group at Keller Williams Arizona Realty, has worked as a Realtor for 25 years, serving Desert Ridge, Carefree, Cave Creek and North Scottsdale. “I think the growth up there, it’s explosive,” Bloom says. “We’ve got a

shortage of turnkey, move-inready homes, and anything that’s new construction or renovated is selling like hotcakes off the shelf.” Bloom says he believes interested buyers can still find a decent bargain in the North Valley if they’re willing to buy older homes that require a bit of modernization. “Buyers are willing to pay a premium, top price for new Jim Belﬁore construction in the retail residential market,” Bloom says. “There’s an abundant supply of homes that require updating and improvement. And

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most of those sellers are trying to sell for retail when reality is savvy buyers are looking for good deals in the marketplace if they’ve got to put some work and time into it.” That outlook is similar to the one shared by Jim Belfiore, the founder and president of Belfiore Real Estate Consulting, a fullservice market research firm focusing on Arizona’s real estate environment. Belfiore’s firm has found that housing in Northeast Phoenix, which includes the Pima Freeway portion of the 101, as well as the area around the Mayo Clinic, is active. A glance at that region alone shows a median base home price of $595,990, with new-build homes costing $605,992 on average.

The range in that region alone, in terms of housing prices, ranges from $275,000 to $3.725 million, which speaks to the popularity of the North Valley. “I think that area is probably the most active market area of the areas that we cover,” Belfiore says. “And I think the reason is because there’s a limited number of active communities. They’ve sort of been metered out or offered sparsely over the past several years. “The land is controlled largely by the state of Arizona, and they don’t sell the land to homebuilders and developers until the previous communities are sold out or almost sold out. So, the market’s able to constantly have a demand, but it’s

not entirely fulfilled.” Belfiore’s research shows communities like Pinnacle at Union Park, Cactus at Sky Crossing and Paradise Ridge are a few of the hottest-selling areas within the Loop 101 corridor. Each of the three subdivisions have

sold no fewer than 16 units in the past two months, with Pinnacle at Union Park selling the most, at 23 units, with a base price range of $353,990 to $357,990. Belfiore believes the trio have been popular, as they fill a series of needs that buyers are looking for, ranging from NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 37

communal spaces to other, resort-quality amenities. Pinnacle at Union Park stands out, according to Belfiore, because of the plethora of amenities available to prospective buyers. “It’s a master-plan community with a clubhouse, a large community swimming pool and exercise rooms,” Belfiore says. “It’s had very healthy sales and promising prices have continuously gone up over that roughly 18-month period, too. So, that’s a great community.”

Longing for outside spaces

Jeff Nielsen has spent much of the last two decades in the home building industry, serving as Toll Brothers’ land acquisition specialist since 2013. Nielsen says he believes the North Valley’s rise in popularity over the last half decade reflects the market’s desire for the amenities at the region’s disposal. “There are a few things that continually drive people to that specific area: No. 1, it is beautiful desert,” Nielsen says. “That whole area all funnels down to two major employment corridors: the Deer Valley airport area, as well as the I-17 corridor.” Having a bounty of highways nearby to channel traffic downtown and to other high-traffic areas has been a game changer for the region, in Nielsen’s opinion, as

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it opens up the area to a wider range of potential buyers. “You look at, from Desert Ridge over to Scottsdale, you have the Scottsdale Airpark. (It) employment-wise is really easy to get to, and that really drives it. And also, in those areas, the schools are really fantastic. So, that’s what drives people to those locations.” As for the homes, Nielsen says he’s seen homeowners’ desire to transform the kitchen of a home into one that flows seamlessly from the indoors out toward the patio. “The biggest thing that drives people today, especially for that high-end buyer who’s in the North Valley, is the indoor/outdoor living room—the seamless transition between my great room and my kitchen into those outdoor entertaining spaces, the patios, the pools,” Nielsen says. “It really makes them just an extension of the home. So when you step outside, you feel like you’re still part of the home, and it doesn’t feel like you’re sequestered outside. They’re just seamless.” The other building trend in the North Valley has been a move toward more open floor plans, Nielsen says. “If you look at homes that are 20-plus years old, the rooms are smaller. They’re a little bit more cut up,” Nielsen says.

“Everybody wants the nice, big, great rooms that flow into kitchens and that are all-encompassing. Kitchens are much larger today; they’ve pretty much become the entertaining space for most people. “They come over, they want big islands where people can sit at the bar and interact as you’re cooking food, and you’ve got places for people to hang out as you’re working.”

A more stable housing market

Belfiore and Nielsen say they believe this housing boom is more sustainable than one in the early 21st century. Their confidence stems from a multitude of factors, ranging from the rise in upperlevel housing in the North Valley, as compared to the tilt-up, mass-produced units that blanked the region in the last boom period, to the fact that speculative housing has slowed drastically this go ’round. “It was a good place to live; it was nice. Today, what’s driving that growth is not affordability, because it’s not affordable. It’s a lifestyle now,” Nielsen says. “People who have, No. 1, been there 20 years— the people who went and bought the affordable house 20 years ago—now have a bunch of home equity. “There’s a different point in their life. Their kids are typically all grown and almost out of the house. So, they want a change of lifestyle.” Belfiore believes the main difference between this real estate surge is the difference in permitting and building of units. He points out that in the late 1990s there were around 40,000 housing permits in the Valley alone. Fast-forward two decades and the number of housing permits in the same region peaked at 26,000 in 2019, according to Belfiore, which speaks to the lack of volume. That helps prevent devaluation and a bust in the economic cycle of real estate. “The volume is much, much lower,” Belfiore says. “The other thing is the amount of supply today. Back in that time, builders were buying gigantic lots, with hundreds or even thousands of acres of land in some cases, and were developing all

by themselves. “That’s not the case today. Today, developers are developing large, masterplanned communities, but the builders are purchasing only 100, 200 or 300 lots in those communities. They’re not taking as much risk, and supply is limited, relative to where it was before.” Mark Stapp, a master of real estate development at ASU’s W.P. Carey School of Business, shared a similar outlook on the region’s real estate market. The key for Stapp, as with Belfiore, is the real estate market is not overheated like in past boom periods. There won’t be a glut of houses on the market, creating a bubble. The biggest issue the region faces, according to Belfiore and Stapp, is the lack of affordable housing that stems from the lack of supply. That concern is negated by the continued rise in home buying and the steady pace of purchasing, both of new and resale housing. “This is a very different environment than we had 10 years ago and during the

recession. When the problem we currently have is a lack of affordability resulting from a supply that is much tighter and difficult to expand from the demand that actually exists,” Stapp says. “So, what that’s doing is it’s pushing pricing up, and by pushing pricing up, it causes a number of other issues. Affordability certainly is the big one.

Coral Gables Estates

Gorgeous Tuscan architecture and 360 Degree views of the city surround this stunning home in the heart of Moon Valley! Located in the exclusive guard-gated Coral Gables Estates on just shy of 2 acres, this remodeled custom home boasts 6,125 SQFT of resort-like luxuries. Private driveway leads you to this estate, hilltop home. With wrap around yard, you can enjoy city views in the front yard on low maintenance turf, private patio terrace and pebble tec pool with water spillway. Or head to the back and catch an intimate setting with hot tub/waterfall feature & fire pit whilst taking in the mountainous surrounds. Grand front entryway with large columns and oversized wrought iron door to greet you and your guests.

PROPERTY FEATURES • 5 bed /6 bath • 6,125 sq ft split floor plan • 3 gas fireplaces • Cantera front entry door • Wrought Iron railings • Plantation Shutters • Alderwood Cabinetry • Granite counter-tops • Steam Master shower • Jacuzzi Spa Master tub • Wine Cellar • Double Dishwasher • Sub Zero Refrigerator • Coffered Ceiling • Bonus Room / Game Room / Movie Theatre • Owned Mitsubishi Solar Panels

Cambridge Properties • 602.486.3119 • nancygonzalezsells@gmail.com

• Lot size 80,962 sq ft (Room to expand, i.e., 2 car garage) • New Roof • New AC units SEER 16 • New Water Heater • House professionally sealed • Aero-sealed ducts • R30 Insulation • Central Vac • Recirculator added to water heater • Low Maintenance Turf • 24/7 guarded gate • Tennis Courts • 25 minutes to Sky Harbor

And it stresses the market. So, that’s the problem we have today. “We should be building more homes than we are currently building, and it’s just very difficult to do that. Cost of construction and availability of land and the cost of land has really made it tough. Yeah, the housing market’s in very good shape.”

NANCY GONZALEZ Cambridge Properties’ motto is to fulfill clients’ dreams by turning them into reality. Working closely in customer relations for over 15 years, I understand the importance of consumer needs and establishing quality relationships. I believe in serving my clients and putting their best interest first. My efforts, positive attitude, and strong work ethic are key in reaching my clients’ overall real estate objectives. “My commitment to my business and my clients is my top priority.” When working with me, expect upfront, honest and genuine feedback. Concierge service is my passion, so whether you are looking to dine at a local pub, five-star restaurant, purchasing your first home or are in need of home staging, I am there to guide you every step of the way.

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 39

Bella Mode! Nikki and Brie Bella bring the party to Hotel Valley Ho By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ust because Valley natives Nikki and Brie Bella are pregnant, it doesn’t mean they can’t throw a party. The former WWE Divas will kick off Cabanas After Dark, the Hotel Valley Ho’s poolside parties under the stars, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 6. The party and a VIP rooftop meet-and-greet also introduce their new Bonita Bonita rosé, and signed bottles will be available. “We’re so beyond excited,” says Nikki, who recently announced her engagement to her former “Dancing with the Stars” partner, Artem Chigvintsev. “Brie and I are known as winos. We love being part of the wine industry. Just because we’re pregnant, it doesn’t mean we can’t have a pool party and make mocktails. This, we know: The Bellas know how to throw a good party.” Brie adds it makes sense to celebrate Bonita Bonita in Scottsdale. The Bellas were born 16 minutes apart on November 21, 1983, in San Diego and raised on a farm near Scottsdale. The soccer-playing girls graduated from Chaparral High School in 2002. “Obviously, Arizona is home to us. Every time we have something to launch or showcase, the first thing we think about is here. We’re these young girls with big dreams, and to introduce Bonita Bonita at home makes it much more special.

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Everyone can taste our rosé, which is fantastic, at the Valley Ho.” Plus, Brie is a big fan of the Valley Ho. “I remember when I was 22 years old and living in Los Angeles,” says Brie, who’s married to fellow wrestler Daniel Bryan. They share a 2-year-old daughter, Birdie. “I

Hotel Valley Ho’s Cabanas After Dark Cabanas After Dark kicks off Friday, March 6, with the BellaTwins, spirits and wine, live bands, passed appetizers and drinks. Following the event with the Bellas, the series will continue with Tiki Night on March 13, Country Barbecue on March 20, and the St. Tropez White Party on April 3. Tickets for the kick-off event on March 6 are $25 and include a featured drink. VIP cabanas are $379 to $1,999 and include VIP access to the rooftop event that starts at 7 p.m. and two to eight bottles of the rosé signed by Brie and Nikki. Tickets for the events from March 13 to April 3 are $10, with VIP cabanas available from $229 to $1,499, including bottle service and one to two bottles of the featured spirit. The Hotel Valley Ho is located at 6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale. For more information, call 480-376-3600 or visit hotelvalleyho.com.

went to this fun party here. I thought this restaurant and whole lounge here is insane. I love that whole ’60s and ’70s throwback vibe.” Besides the wine, two babies and Nikki’s upcoming nuptials, the women have other things to celebrate. Nicole + Brizee body line is going to have new products, “Total Bellas” returns to E! on April 9, and they are launching a book. “We were originally going to launch it in the fall, but we’re going to tie it to Total Bellas’ premiere date,” Nikki says. “We’re going to announce our title and book cover soon.” Their clothing line, Birdiebee, is launching a spring line soon, and it’s going to feature sustainable items. “Brie’s always been so eco-friendly, and one of my resolutions is to make a change in this world,” Nikki says. “We wanted our companies to do so. Our products are going to use recycled plastic bottles, and we’re going to have more lifestyle clothing. We’re so excited for that to drop. We have so many new products.” They’re most excited about their pregnancies. The Bellas are due two weeks apart in the summer. “We’re so thrilled,” Brie says. “Never in a million years did I think this could happen. It’s very hard to get pregnant. It wasn’t easy ever for me. The fact that we’re so close is amazing. People ask if we planned it. But you can’t plan pregnancy. Trust me.”

Brie and Nikki Bella will introduce Bonita Bonita rosé at the Hotel Valley Ho in their former hometown of Scottsdale on Friday, March 6. (Photo courtesy Hotel Valley Ho)

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Gregory Welsh participated in a series of events during the Transplant Games, including cornhole. (Photo by Chris Mortenson)

He Has

Heart

Gregory Welsh prioritizes helping others in line for an organ transplant

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

regory Welsh was in the throes of grief in 1996 when he decided to donate his wife’s organs, eyes and tissues after a car crash. Fifteen years later, at age 46, the North Valley man’s generosity came full circle. On May 18, 2011—four months after suffering a heart attack that forced him to use an artificial heart—he received a heart. He has since become an advocate and voice for donation. Welsh serves as board president of the Transplant Community Alliance, formerly known as the New Life Society. “That’s where my passion comes for transplant and donor awareness and transplant support—my experiences in life,” he says. “A lot of my friends are transplant recipients now. I’ve just thrown myself into the Transplant Community Alliance.” The organization and Welsh are hosting 42 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

the first fundraising Donor Dash at 8 a.m. Saturday, February 15. It features a 5K, 1K family fun run and a Doggy Dash at Arizona Falls in Phoenix. “We’re hoping for a good turnout,” he says. “We have a 5K and a 1K and then they’re doing a Doggy Dash. We’re trying to make it a family-oriented event. We’re looking for sponsors, too. “It’s at the Arizona Falls park on Indian School, so they’ll get to walk along the canal. It’s a nice location for it.” The event is a fundraiser for the alliance— formerly dubbed the New Life Society— and its Living Assistance Program, which helps pay mortgages when caregivers have to take a month or more off work and they have no other income. The organization offers up to $750 per person, on a one-time basis. Last year, the Transplant Community Alliance gave away $50,000, but officials like Welsh

are hoping to give more. The Transplant Community Alliance also sponsors Transplant Team Arizona and a mentor program.

Falling ill

Welsh needed a heart transplant after suffering a heart attack due to cardiomyopathy. He first went to urgent care, but was transported to Thunderbird Banner’s emergency room where his heart rate was 190 and he was in ventricular tachycardia. Only 20% of his heart was working. He coded. Transferred to Mayo Clinic, he didn’t wake up for several days, and when he did, he was being kept alive by an artificial heart. He was in need of a heart transplant. “I woke up with a total artificial heart,” he says. “They put it in on January 18. I was like,

‘Oh, OK. My world has changed. and as Transplant Community But what do I have to do now?’ Alliance’s board president. “My daughter lost her mom “We promote transplant when she was 9 in a car accident. I awareness, donor awareness and knew I needed to make it through help people register to be donors that to be there for my daughter.” with the Donor Network of He admitted that his family was Arizona. We show that transplant scared to tell him he was on an works and that we can live healthy artificial heart. lives and do active things. That’s “I woke up needing a transplant. where the walk comes in. There was no option. It wasn’t like I “We used to do a wine tasting, could live with this device and go on but we needed to do something with life. The artificial heart helped that shows how active we are. The me get healthy enough for the Donor Dash is the perfect thing, transplant. I had pneumonia and a and there are others in cities few complications after the surgery, across the country.” but then in March they put me on The mission of Transplant the active transplant waiting list.” Team Arizona is to support Exactly a month later, on organ donor awareness by February 18, doctors implanted a demonstrating the effectiveness then-experimental artificial heart of the transplantation process to device called the Freedom Driver, increase the number of registered Gregory Welsh had a heart transplant after brieﬂy living with an artiﬁcial heart. (Photo by Chris Mortenson) which allowed him to return home. organ, eye and tissue donations “It has since gotten FDA in the state of Arizona through approval,” he says. “It was a public education. the time. We were together for seven years 13-pound backpack that I had to carry with The group, with transplant supporters and she bailed right after my transplant. She me. It connected to the artificial heart. and health providers, assists team just wasn’t emotionally able to deal with it. “They removed my heart and put this members with the costs associated with Everything changes. Dynamics change. plastic device in with two tubes that came “Emotionally, you go through all of the participation at the Transplant Games of out and originally went to a 600-pound emotions of, ‘Where did this heart come America and World Transplant Games, machine that I was connected to in the from?’ How do you justify somebody having where they celebrate their newfound hospital,” Welsh says. health to bring attention to the success to die for me to live?” “It’s called ‘Big Blue.’ I was connected to of organ and tissue transplantation However, Welsh now has an extended that for a month before they connected me and honor the memory of donors and family—that of the young man who died to the Freedom (Portable) Driver. I was able and saved Welsh’s life. donor families. Welsh competes in four to go home and I went to Broadway plays at events—bowling, darts, Texas hold ‘em Fernando was shot and killed at age 17 by Gammage. I walked around the mall. I just stray bullets from the street. In that moment and cornhole. had to be close to an outlet within two hours of unthinkable loss, his mother Alejandra “I did all of the events that you could do because I had two hours of battery time. with a beer in your hand,” he says with a Rivera chose to donate Fernando’s organs. When the battery stopped, I stopped.” laugh. Her son saved five lives after his death, and In sticking with the “18” theme, he was With all of his volunteering and his she and Welsh were able to meet in person transplant No. 100 at the Mayo Clinic on experiences, Welsh has one bit of advice about a year later and have stayed very close May 18, 2011. Since then, he hasn’t looked for patients awaiting a transplant. to one another. back. “There are a lot of changes, but life gets “She always likes to put her head on my “I’m back to work full time,” he said. “I better and it gets so much better than you chest,” Welsh says. “She likes to hear his do CAD drafting and IT at an engineering can ever imagine.” heart beat in me. firm,” he says. “They had me over just before Christmas. Welsh explains the illness and the She lives not very far from where I work. The First Transplant Community heart transplant were difficult for him They made me dinner with special chiles Alliance Donor Dash emotionally, physically and financially for from Mexico that you can only get in this 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, February 15 him, his family and loved ones. part of Mexico. It was amazing food. Arizona Falls, “It just changes your life,” says Welsh, “You don’t get this in any Mexican food 5802 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix who’s now engaged to Catherine Hawxby restaurant. This was somebody’s house in $35 for the 5K, $25 for the 1K before of Transplant Community Alliance. “I had Sonora kind of Mexican food.” February 14; and $40 and $30, to be off work for two years. They wouldn’t respectively, on race day Helping others really let me go back to work for a year, and http://bit.ly/31jUldj, 480-259-5769, When Welsh isn’t working, he’s then at the end of the year, I went back part jennifer@transplantaz.org participating in Transplant Team Arizona time. It was a struggle. I had a girlfriend at NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 43

Cave Creek Rodeo Days attracts topranking Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association contestants. (Photo

courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days)

Skilled ropers will participate in Cave Creek Rodeo Days, set for March 27-29. (Photo courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days)

Cave Creek Rodeo Days is March 2729. Pictured: 2018 Teen Queen Lilly Alsever during that year’s rodeo. (Photo

courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days)

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Breakaway roping is a variation of calf roping where a calf is roped, but not thrown and tied. This year’s new event for women will take place after the morning barrel racing slack competition on Friday, March 27. (Photo credit: Olie’s Images)

Keeping

Western

Heritage Alive

Everyone’s a cowboy during Cave Creek Rodeo Days

By Sue Kern-Fleischer

ave Creek residents Karl and Allison Stressman are immersing themselves into Cave Creek Rodeo Days. He is a new board member and Allison is serving as the queen coordinator for the royalty program. Having traveled around the country attending rodeos of all sizes, they are passionate about the sport and they are excited about their local rodeo’s potential for growth. “Rodeo is mainstream U.S.A.,” he says. “It also has a social element to it that other sports don’t have. It’s just a great, all-American, familyoriented community event, and no matter where you grew up, you can be somewhat of a cowboy that weekend.” Kicking off Saturday, March 21, with a festive parade around town, Cave Creek Rodeo Days includes three Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association rodeo performances featuring PRCA and Women’s

Professional Rodeo Association contestants at Cave Creek Memorial Arena from March 27 to March 29. In its 43rd year, the rodeo is sponsored by Sanderson Ford and also features a golf tournament at Rancho Mañana Golf Club in Cave Creek on Tuesday, March 24. “Rodeo is steeped in the tradition of the Old West,” says Beth Cornell, Cave Creek Rodeo Days president. Cave Creek residents Karl and Allison Stressman are “Each event is, in some immersing themselves into Cave Creek Rodeo Days. way, connected to the skills Karl served as the national PRCA commissioner for nearly a decade. Allison is serving as queen coordinator and abilities required on and is working to grow Cave Creek rodeo’s royalty the working ranches and program. (Photo courtesy of Karl and Allison Stressman) open range that are a part of our heritage. For those Rodeo is also big business. The new to rodeo, our announcer will share National Finals Rodeo—known as more details about how each riveting the Super Bowl of Rodeo—generated competition works, so it will be easy to more than $100 million in spending follow along.” over 10 days in 2019. Other big NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 45

Cave Creek Rodeo Days features three thrilling performances, March 27-29, at Cave Creek Memorial Arena. (Photo courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days)

Barrel racing is one of the thrilling competitions during Cave Creek Rodeo Days, set for March 27-29.

(Photo courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days)

rodeos, like Rodeo Houston, Cheyenne Frontier Days and the Reno Rodeo, pump tens of millions of dollars into their local economies. And, for skilled competitors, rodeo can be very lucrative. The NFR prize money paid $10 million in 2019. While not as large, Cave Creek’s rodeo continues to grow each year. This year’s event is expected to attract more than 2,000 spectators to the rodeo grounds each day. The $75,412 prize money payout to competitors last year is also helping to attract national talent this year. In addition, Cave Creek Rodeo Days is contributing 14% more this year to the prize money pot,

which will also include a percentage of entry fees. “Many people don’t realize our team of volunteers devotes hundreds of hours throughout the year to help our community,” Cornell says. “The Cave Creek Rodeo Days organization has donated more than $72,000 in the last three years to support nearly a dozen local and state charities. In addition, a portion of funds support the town of Cave Creek’s efforts to make improvements each year to the Cave Creek Memorial Arena.” In keeping with its mission to expose

Cave Creek Rodeo Days kicks off on March 21 with a parade through the town of Cave Creek and mutton bustin’ for kids after the parade. Rodeo weekend is March 27-29. (Photo courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days) 46 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

young people to the Western way of life, Cave Creek Rodeo Days continues the development of its alignment with the local 4-H program. “We also have partnered with Kiwanis of Carefree to provide free admission for children 10 and under to our Cave Creek Rodeo Days event. This has inspired many children to become involved in junior rodeo,” Cornell says.

New women’s breakaway roping event

This year, Cave Creek Rodeo Days board member Daren Peterson is introducing breakaway roping for women. A local resident who owns Longhorn Productions, Peterson produces team roping events throughout the country. Breakaway roping is a variation of calf roping where a calf is roped, but not thrown and tied. This year’s new event will take place after the morning barrel racing slack competition on Friday, March 27. Slack is the preliminary competition for any excess entries, and it’s free for the public to attend. “Breakaway roping has been going on for years, but its popularity has been surging,” Peterson says. “It’s exciting for both the participants and the spectators because of all the factors in motion: the horse, the roper, and the calf they are roping.” Entries will be taken at the arena starting at 8 a.m. Friday, March 27. The contestant who is first to sign up to enter is the last to rope.

Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association, Cave Creek Rodeo Days is a fun family-event taking place March 27-29. (Photo

courtesy of Cave Creek Rodeo Days)

“The advantage to that is that the early entrants get to see the calf go once before it’s their turn to rope it,” he says. The top 20 breakaway roping competitors will then compete during a third round for the $1,500 prize from Cave Creek Rodeo Days plus a percentage of entry fees. “The payoff will be great,” Peterson says. “In addition, the top five contestants will run one more calf during the Sunday, March 29, performance for a chance to win bonus prize money.”

Crowning of rodeo queens

Cave Creek Rodeo Days also is strengthening its Royalty Program. This year’s Queen and Teen Queen contest is the morning of Saturday, February 15, followed by the queen crowning and a celebratory lunch from 1 to 3 p.m. at Civana Resort in Carefree. Tickets start at $45 for adults and $25 for children 15 and younger and are available for purchase online at cavecreekrodeo.com/royalty-coronation-banquet. “We invite everyone to come meet the new queen and teen queen and also learn about our princess program for girls ages 6 to 12,” Allison Stressman says. “Winners of both the queen and the teen queen titles will travel the Turquoise Circuit representing Cave Creek Rodeo Days at events throughout the Southwest in 2020. In addition, the queen will receive a $1,000 educational scholarship, a free pair of Corral boots and a new pair of spurs, along with several other big prizes.” Cave Creek Rodeo Days Starts Saturday, March 21 Tickets range from $27 to $200, with discounts available online through March 20 Free shuttle buses available 480-304-5634, cavecreekrodeo.com, info@ cavecreekrodeo.com

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480.575.2000 www.CCUSD93.org NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 47

E xperience

You Can Count On The Ozer Group helps put clients in their dream homes By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

li Ozer promises a high level of attention and service as a 12-year real estate agent for Coldwell

and in all home values. I promise you’ll receive exceptional service.” Ozer has lived in Arizona since 1991. He currently resides in Scottsdale. He Banker. started his career in 2008 when the market “What’s unique to me is I came to real was crashing. It proved to be a learning estate from the hospitality/hotel resort experience. business,” he says. “I did that for 25 years. I “It really taught me a lot,” he says. “It was was used to a higher level of attention and trial by fire on the business at its worst. But it also taught me how to take advantage of real estate opportunities on behalf of my clients. I met a lot of investors who purchased during those really bad times and later sold and made a lot of money. The clients did really well and continue to be the foundation of my business.” Although he lives in Scottsdale, Ozer works throughout the Valley, so he can confidently Realtor Ali Ozer persuaded his wife, India Ryer, to join provide insight on all his business six years ago. (Photo courtesy The Ozer Group) areas. service and that’s how I run my business. “We sell everywhere, but our main focus is “It’s definitely helped me maintain great from Carefree through Scottsdale, Fountain professional working relationships for other Hills and Paradise Valley,” Ozer says. “We clients and Realtors in the business.” have more and more buyers who want a nice Ozer takes pride in his success as a home in those areas, where the houses have Realtor. He’s listed and sold more than 200 crept close to $500,000.” homes in the last 12 years. In July, he and his wife, India Ryer, “That’s experience you can count on,” he formed The Ozer Group. The five-person says. “I help buyers and sellers of all types staff includes a Spanish speaker. Ryer has 48 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

worked with her husband for six years, after leaving the financial services industry. That knowledge is important to have so The Ozer Group can relate to its clients’ financial desires. Ozer has seen a variety of trends over his years as a Realtor. Recently, buyers are looking for homes that are as new and updated as possible. They’re willing to pay for it on the front end, instead of buying homes that need work. “That’s really affecting the market,” Ozer says. “The homes that are remodeled are moving really quickly, and that’s driving up the price. The homes that have not been updated and are not in great shape are slowing down the market just a little bit. People aren’t enthused about them. They see dollar signs when see homes that need a lot of work.” Charity and giving back are important to Ozer and Dyer, as they enjoy promoting Coldwell Banker’s Finding Homes for Dogs. “That’s a big charitable push that we do,” says Ozer, who is a dog owner. “We’re all down owners, and throughout the year, they do a major adoption event. They usually do a Super Bowl commercial to recap the efforts. They find homes for thousands of dogs. It’s just amazing. It’s a good fit with finding homes and real estate.” The Ozer Group 11219 E. Mercer Lane, Scottsdale 602-628-1813, theozergroup.com

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The Art of

Giving

Catholic Community Foundation hosts annual ‘Pitch Day’ By Christopher Boan

Annunciation Catholic School Principal Dr. Sharon Pristash discussed security at her Cave Creek school. (Photo courtesy Catholic Community Foundation)

capacity crowd filtered into a white-walled conference room inside the Diocese of Phoenix on a mid-January Thursday afternoon. The crowd included a cadre of church members, belonging to the Catholic Community Foundation, along with a series of nonprofit workers seeking funding for their respective organizations. The collective gathered under the auspices of Pitch Day, an annual, “Shark Tank”-style event during which 32 organizations made 2-minute elevator pitches for funding. The event, which is run by the CCF’s Giving Circle—the foundation’s philanthropic wing—is the only Catholic giving circle in the state. CCF’s primary fundraiser is the Crozier Gala, which is set for Saturday, April 25, at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale at Gainey Ranch. It’s also an act of love for longtime members, like Donna Olson, who joined the event a few years after its inception in 2015. Olson says she believes the Giving Circle’s 50 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

Lucy Grimes, the Restore Dignity executive director, pitched her need for funds for her Chandler-based nonproﬁt. (Photo courtesy Catholic Community Foundation)

Pitch Day is a truly unique endeavor, and it has given more than $500,000 in grant funding since its inception. “I’ve learned so much about all of the different organizations out in our community and serving our community,” Olson says. “It’s fun to get to know them. You feel like they’re talking to you and helping you get to know what they’re all about.”

This feeling is shared by the people who had the unenviable task of pitching their life’s work in 120 seconds. One such person was A.J. Creswell of Tempe-based FullCircle, which sought $40,000 for its sober living programs. Creswell says his organization, which seeks to offer free programs for teens and young adults who struggle with substance abuse, appreciates the care and compassion church members have for each prospective grant recipient. He’s confident his pitch will have a shot at being granted. The beneficiaries will hear of their grants soon. “We’re in a position now where we’re running out of space,” Creswell says. “We have over 70 families who we’re working with currently and we’re really today looking for assistance in building out our office and having more counseling offices for the families we work with.” Creswell was one of 32 nonprofit members to make a pitch on Thursday, with the

prospective recipients split up into groups of four, based on their mission. The annual Giving Day event is split into five program areas, ranging from teacher’s choice and youth programs to evangelization and sanctity of life, working among the poor, health and wellness, and arts and culture. Deacon James Carabajal, who serves as the CEO of Catholic Community Foundation, addressed the root of Pitch Day, discussing how important it is to support Valley nonprofits seeking to do good things in our backyard. “This is the first time we had so many agencies pitch. This is such a joyful occasion,” Carabajal says. “We have 32 organizations, which is wonderful, but it’s also kind of sad because it’s 32 organizations in dire need.” The 32 pitches on Thursday ran the gamut, from a school principal seeking funding for additional security features to nutrition programs for low-income seniors. Other philanthropic topics included homelessness, the installation of AC units, and washers and dryers for moms and babies. The topic of school security was mentioned by Dr. Sharon Pristash, the principal of Cave Creek’s Annunciation Catholic School. Pristash’s organization is seeking $40,000 for security cameras and monitors, as well as key fobs and access-controlled doors. “It saddens me security is our No. 1 concern in schools, instead of learning,” Pristash says. “But it’s the reality of the world we live in. With all the school violence we see in the news, we can’t help but worry, ‘What if it happened to us?’ I’m here today to ask you to help me take this question out of parent’s heads.” The amount of money requested ranged, from $4,500 for a shrine in the Sacred Heart Parish of Prescott’s church gathering place to $75,000 for Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish’s Evangelize Through the ARTS program. Foundation for Blind Children Education Services Director Jared Kittelson took an anecdotal approach to solicit funding. Kittelson’s pitch centered around a young man, named Cesar, whom the foundation has supported and empowered through its programs. The theme of Kittelson’s 2-minute spiel centered around how the additional funding could allow other young Phoenicians, like Cesar, to get the boost they need to give back to their communities. “We’re asking the foundation for $25,000 to send 10 Cesars to this program and cost his family nothing. Help us keep the costs to a minimum so we can help get more Cesars through the program and be independent, functioning adults and helping out with society.” In the end, after all 32 pitches were made, covering a litany of philanthropic topics, the root cause of the day’s events became clear. The winner is yet to be known, but each of the foundations, and those in the audience, were victorious in their own way, as they all are seeking to make the city and state a better place to live. This altruistic vision is what keeps Giving Circle members, like Olson, coming back year after year. Olson is thrilled to give back to so many worthwhile causes and to play a role in deciding whose vision gets fulfilled. “We have a heart for charity and nonprofits, and it’s fun to be able to be part of the decisions on where our money goes,” Olson says. Info: ccfphx.org

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Thomas Koska’s classmates have their heads shaved to support him through his leukemia treatment. (Photo by Annika Tomlin)

Shaving Heads for Thomas Great Hearts North Phoenix supports its cancer-stricken classmate By Annika Tomlin

homas Koska was suffering from severe fatigue. After falling ill, Koska was rushed to the hospital where he was told, the last weekend of January, he had a high white blood cell count from leukemia. A member of Great Hearts North Phoenix’s state championship cross-country team, the sophomore means a lot to the school community. “Thomas is a beloved member of our community,” Headmaster Paul Weinhold says. “He’s just a great kid and clearly someone who had impacted our community.” Koska was worried about four things when he was diagnosed: letting his team down, having to stop running, not being able to graduate on time and losing his hair. When his teammates found out about his condition and that he worried about losing his hair, they decided to shave their heads in support of their 52 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

friend. Nearly a dozen of his cross-country teammates shaved their heads before visiting him at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. “It was difficult seeing him like that,” teammate Rocco Berbetti says. “But it was awesome knowing that he’s going to fight through it. He’s a fighter.” Koska, nicknamed “Jeep” after a soccer jersey with a Jeep logo on it he wore his first day of cross country, is known for his smaller size but also his strong will and his presence in the community. His friends are just as dedicated. Two students posted a video on social media calling on other students to join them in shaving their heads at a tailgate before the last home JV and Varsity soccer games.They wanted to see as many bald heads on campus as they could in support of Koska. The small group of students quickly grew as more and more people wanted to support Koska. Faculty and students, including Weinhold, had their heads shaved in front of a cheering crowd of supporters. “We did this so he doesn’t feel alone through this rough time once he starts losing his hair through chemo,” teammate Jack Miller says. “We did it just because he is a good friend and he knows he’s supported.”

A longtime friend of Koska, Miller was one of the students who initiated that group shaving event. Miller was cheered on heavily as three female students took turns shaving his big curly hair. “It was terrifying (getting my head shaved),” Miller says. “I have not had my hair this short since I was 5.” Koska is undergoing his initial treatment for leukemia at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. His teammates and friends will continue to support him in any way they can during this tough road ahead. Male students and faculty shaved their entire heads while some female students opted for a shoulder-length cut in support of their classmate. All of the students went around feeling each other’s bald heads and saying how proud Koska would be when he finds out what they did. “The friendship among our students helped to make it happen,”Weinhold says. “I think at a time like this when you hear a student has a diagnosis of leukemia, that’s really tough on a community. Doing this in support of him is cathartic for the community. We hope this shows a great support for Thomas and that he sees this and is encouraged.”

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT Vernon Aviation business manager James Pera says when people hear the words “private jet,” they automatically assume it’s not within reach financially. (Photo by Annika Tomlin)

FINDING A NEW HOME V

Vernon Aviation settles in at Scottsdale Airport

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ernon Aviation business manager James Pera says when people hear the words “private jet,” they automatically assume it’s not within reach financially. They’re wrong, he says. “Once educated, our clients are pleasantly surprised to find out that there are various price points, aircraft and options for all budgets,” Pera says. “The business owners are pleased when they find out it can be a tax write off.” Vernon Aviation set the stage for a competitive private jet market when it opened its base of operations at Scottsdale

Airpark this fall. It flies an eight-passenger, Pilatus PC-12 turboprop aircraft. “We are extremely excited to expand our business and have a new home in Scottsdale,” Pera says. “Scottsdale is a true destination and plays host to some of the largest and most prestigious events in the country. The demand is high for both business and leisure travelers that are seeking privacy, convenience and a schedule that they control. The airplanes that we operate are luxurious, comfortable and, most important, cost effective. We fill a niche for flights that are typically one to three hours of flight

time in the immediate surrounding western states.” For travel needs where the PC-12 isn’t the best option due to passenger and range requirements, Vernon Aviation also offers brokerage solutions through its worldwide network of qualified aircraft operators. “If somebody comes to us and, for example, needs to transport 15 people nonstop to New York, we can accommodate that,” he says. “We can accommodate flights to Hawaii and other destinations. It’s about utilizing different aircraft that are obviously safe and appropriate for that particular flight.” NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 53

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

Vernon Aviation’s aircraft are operated out of Ross Aviation, a premier FBO. “It’s so nice,” Pera says. “You drive your car right out to the airplane. There’s somebody there to greet you. Your trip sheets been put together.”

New endeavor

Vernon Aviation was started in Farmington, New Mexico, by brothers George W. Riley III and Gary Riley. The two also own Riley Industrial Services Inc., an industrial contracting company, along with their father Sonny Riley and brother Glen Riley. “They’re actually celebrating their 50th anniversary,” Pera says. “They built that business from scratch and now they have satellite locations all over the world. “They’ve just been truly amazing people to work with. The fact that they’re celebrating their 50th anniversary, I think, carries very well over to Vernon Aviation and the values

and services we extend to our clients.” The family chose Scottsdale because it’s an “exciting” market. “There’s just so much happening here, to be honest,” he says. “It’s a great location. It’s central to the western states but, in truth, it hosts some of the largest events in the country.” The organization focuses on the immediate western region like Napa, Sedona and San Diego. The flights are custom tailored to the passengers. “If someone has a sweet tooth, we put Mr. Nelson’s cookies on the airplane,” he says. “If there’s a request for certain beverages or what have you, then we make sure the airplane is always stocked. The experience is truly tailored to their expectations. “We get to know our clients—their likes and dislikes. I know it helps put people’s minds at ease.” Vernon Aviation’s goals are to expand its fleet and destinations. “We’re looking at additional aircraft at this moment, and so next year we’ll have more airplanes out here,” Pera says. “It’s really about striking a balance between the leisure clients and the business travelers.

54 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

“We go out and develop relationships with business owners and business travelers who are flying to regular destinations weekly. At the same time, we’re really excited to develop relationships with the resorts and surrounding destinations. The goal is we like to go above and beyond. We’re hearing some very creative ideas at the moment and we’re entertaining them. We want to create experiences for people.” Experiences that are within reach. Pera says the pricing is competitive, especially considering customers do not need to arrive several hours before the flight. Vernon Aviation also doesn’t charge a membership fee. “It’s a different price than, say, what you’re going to see with Southwest Airlines,” he says. “But the bottom line is they should fear exploring it. “There are different airplanes and different price points to basically accommodate any budget. We’re not a hard sell. We don’t bug our customers. It’s about building custom-tailored relationships.” Vernon Aviation 14700 N. Airport Drive, Suites 201-202, Scottsdale quotes@vernonaviation.com, vernonaviation.com

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

(Ac)counting

Kevin and Christina Davidson married this past summer in Sedona among family and friends. (Photo courtesy of Kevin and Christina Davidson)

Each Other Couple overcomes insurmountable odds to find love, launch tax business By Alison Bailin Batz

hristina Davidson is nearly an Airpark native. “My family moved here from South Dakota in 1986 when I was just 5 years old,” says Davidson, who attended Desert Springs Elementary School, Desert Shadows Middle School and Horizon High School in the 1980s and 1990s. Growing up, she only wanted to be two things: the head maid at the White House due to her obsessive-compulsive love of cleaning, and not an accountant. “My dad was in finance, and seeing all the number crunching just seemed like such a drag as a kid,” Davidson says. But here is the thing: She became an accountant. “I started in mechanical engineering

at the University of Arizona, but quickly realized it was not my passion,” Davidson says. “So, I took a few accounting classes just to get them out of the way and was surprised that I took to the concepts right away. I became an accounting major, figuring I would just get the degree and then go into business of some sort upon graduation.” But accounting took to her as much as she did to it. When she graduated in 2003, she worked a series of high-profile accounting jobs, one of which moved her to Colorado for a spell. “Homesick, I did move back to the Valley in 2010, where much of my time was spent palling around with my mom, Bethie, and re-connecting with friends

from the old neighborhood,” Davidson says. “And then in 2015, everything changed when my mom was diagnosed with uterine cancer.” For the next year, the entire family came together and rallied around Bethie. “By late 2015, we got the news she was cancer free,” Davidson says. “And just like clockwork, my friends Sam and Gina began pressing me to get back into Arizona life, and specifically pushed me to date.” The man she would meet on a date on July 22, 2016, was Kevin Davidson. Though born on Luke Air Force Base, Kevin grew up in New Mexico, dreaming of one day becoming a fighter pilot or owning a business of his own. “Except I was always good at math, NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 55

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT so people encouraged me to think about accounting,” Kevin says. “I told myself there was no way I was going to be an accountant.” After high school, Kevin began community college, with an eye to finishing prerequisites while he figured out his major and university plans. But then, in 1998, his father had a stroke. “For the next three years, the entire left side of his body was paralyzed. He would eventually require assisted living, and we lost him in 2001,” Kevin says. He worked in retail while caring for his father, notably at Ultimate Electronics, where he was elevated in the company to open locations in Phoenix and then Dallas. But when the company went bankrupt in 2005, he knew he needed to find another path. “I went back to school while working full time, and dang it if I wasn’t still good at math, especially my accounting classes.” Kevin was diagnosed with diabetes while in school, fighting debilitating diabetes-related neuropathy pain in class while he got it under control. Kevin graduated from the University of New Mexico and then moved back to Arizona and got into accounting, just like Christina had after she said she never would. Their shared odd road to their careers bonded them, as did their parents’ illnesses. “I remember distinctly, we talked about it for hours on our third date, which was in August 2016. Two days later, on August 22, we got the news my mom’s cancer had returned and was terminal,” Christina says. Rather than go their separate ways, even though they had only been dating a month, Kevin and Christina banded together to care for and love on Bethie, who died July 22, 2017, on the same day the couple met just one year prior. “It was hard enough, if you can imagine. But during it, I noticed something odd with Kevin’s heartbeat one day while lying on his chest,” Christina says. “It turned out that he was living with severe atrial fibrillation, which was impacting his blood flow and causing a dangerously irregular heartbeat.”

Life dealt the Davidsons some rough breaks in recent years, but—now married—they are ready for bigger, brighter times as well as a new business looking into 2020. (Photo courtesy Kevin and Christina Davidson)

So, the same summer they lost Bethie, Christina and Kevin also endeavored on what became a series of procedures to treat his condition. “By November 2018, and multiple cardiac ablations later, I was feeling a bit back to my old self, and myself only knew one thing: I wanted to be with Christina forever,” says Kevin, who made Christina his wife in May 2019. Today, the Davidsons are still healing from their often-devastating first two years together. Knowing what they’ve already survived actually inspired them to take a very big risk on each other moving forward. “This career that neither of us planned on doing is truly our passion, so we are taking a chance on ourselves by launching our own accounting business,” Kevin says. Called Davidson CPA, the firm aims to help address the financial health of

56 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

individuals and small businesses. “For businesses, especially small businesses, we offer financial services that provide business owners information that they often do not have the time to perform themselves. Examples include: financial statement preparation, process improvement implementation and general accounting services,” says Kevin, noting they also offer comprehensive business management advising. And then, according to Kevin, they also offer income tax preparation and tax planning for individuals, estates, trusts and businesses. “We are developing long-term tax strategies to help you understand and prepare for future income tax implications,” says Kevin, who is feeling very good about his future, knowing it is with Christina by his side. Info: davidsoncpapllc.com

WHEELS • HOME The Highlander should be high on your short list. (Photo courtesy Toyota)

Taking the High Road

odern auto manufacturing is truly a marvel. Not only are there segments and sub-segments for every imaginable need, it has become genuinely hard to find a clunker among the hundreds of cars, trucks and SUVs filling those segments. Common architecture manufacturing is a crucial component fueling the abundance of magnificent machines, and Toyota’s New Global Architecture, or TNGA, epitomizes this method of using a single platform as the foundation for many different models. The TNGA-K platform variant is the underpinning for no fewer than five models from Toyota and Lexus: three sedans and a duo of SUVs, including the new, fourthgeneration Highlander SUV. As a stalwart

The redesigned Highlander Hybrid Platinum is a solid choice By Greg Rubenstein

of soccer moms, families and weekend warriors since its 2001 introduction, this three-row, mid-size sport utility’s 2020 makeover includes a sharply chiseled fascia featuring LED headlamps and fog lights and a wheelbase lengthened by 2.4 inches. The tested Hybrid Platinum AWD is the premier Highlander trim, topping five grades (L, LE, XLE, Limited and Platinum), which are available with either front-wheeldrive or all-wheel-drive, and powered by a 295-horsepower V6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, or a fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrain. The hybrid system consists of a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gas engine combined with a duo of electric motors and is paired to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission. Equipped with the V6, the FWD or AWD Highlander’s towing capacity is 5,000 pounds, while the hybrid can pull a 3,500-pound load (also with either FWD or AWD). Fuel economy for the V6 AWD model is estimated at 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined, while the hybrid AWD is rated at 35/34/35 mpg. With a 17.1-gallon fuel tank, the hybrid has a nearly 600-mile range, while the 17.9-gallon fuel capacity V6 has a range of almost 500 miles. Toyota eliminated a 2.7-liter, four-cylinder (nonhybrid) engine option for 2020, but

added a new base “L” trim to keep the entry price down. With a MSRP of $35,720, the Highlander’s starting point is still nearly $3,000 higher than last year, but with that comes not just the V6 engine, but also a host of standard features, including three-zone climate control, eight-way power driver’s seat, 18-inch alloy wheels and Toyota’s nextgeneration safety system. Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 is an array of active systems designed to keep occupants out of a crash (or safer in one). TSS includes semi-autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian/hazard detection, lane departure alert with semi-autonomous steering assist, semi-autonomous cruise control with the ability to dynamically maintain vehicle speed, following distance and lane placement, plus automated headlights and a new signage-reading system. Road Sign Assist uses a forward-facing camera to “read” signs, which are then shown on the heads-up display and gauge clustermounted multi-information display. At $51,320, the Highlander Hybrid AWD in Platinum trim is loaded with luxury and technology features, such as an infotainment system with multifunction 12.3-inch touchscreen display, digital rearview mirror, heated and cooled front seats, heated secondrow seats with captain’s chairs, 120V power outlet, hands-free rear liftgate, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a bird’s eye camera offering a rotating 360-degree view while parking or backing up. Dynamically, the Highlander is a pleasure to drive, with a not-too-big size for easy parkinglot maneuverability, plenty of gusto from a stop, and effortless highway cruising. The AWD system provides sure-footed traction by automatically delivering power as needed, fore/aft as well as between left and right rear wheels. Off-road, a multi-terrain control dial offers driver-selectable options for mud and sand, or rock and dirt, while hill-start and downhill-assist functions make tricky off-road ascents and descents a snap. With a winning combination of good looks, peppy performance, 35-plus mpg fuel economy and a high-end interior, the redesigned Highlander Hybrid Platinum is a solid choice for everyday commuting, weekend getaways or even modest hauling chores. For those with more rigorous towing needs, or for budget-conscious shoppers, there is a V6-equipped version just right for you. Either way, the Highlander should be high on your short list. NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 57

HOME • TRIMBLE’S TALES

Surveying the Mexican border

Article V of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo stipulated that a joint Mexican-American boundary survey would be conducted to establish an international borderline between the two nations. (Submitted photo)

The Army Corps of Topographical Engineers had a trying job By Marshall Trimble

he storied Army Corps of Topographical Engineers was a hand-picked group of West Point graduates. In its short lifespan of only 23 years as a separate corps, it probably did more, in proportion to its small numbers, than any other group. The corps was a combination of science and romance, the prototypes of the original seven astronauts of the 1960s. When the Mexican War ended in 1848, neither side knew which part of the territory had been won and lost. Only a few hardscrabble mud adobe villages existed in the rugged, unexplored regions of today’s Southwest. It was a blank on the map of North America. The only known chart of the area was drawn in 1847 by John Disturnell, and it proved to be inaccurate. Article V of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo stipulated that a joint MexicanAmerican boundary survey would be conducted to establish an international borderline between the two nations. The two boundary commissioners were appointed by the United States and Mexico to survey the 800 miles of the Mexican border from El Paso to San Diego. Mexico, to its credit, selected its foremost engineer, General Pedro Garcia Conde, to represent its interests. The United States chose as its boundary commissioner a political appointee, John Russell Bartlett, of Rhode Island, a part-owner of a bookstore. By his own words, he’d led a sedentary life and wanted to 58 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

travel. He also had a great interest in American Indians, whom he’d never seen in their native habitat. For the next two and a half years, he and his expensive entourage of 111 civilian “greenhorns” and 85 military personal would travel extensively in the Southwest, Mexico and California, blowing taxpayer’s dollars while spending as little time as possible on the business of establishing a boundary. This match between boundary commissioners would be comparable to pitting Fatty Arbuckle against Babe Ruth in a home run derby. For Bartlett, the boundary survey was always of secondary importance. He was gathering material to write a book. Of the $500,000 spent by Bartlett’s commission, only $100,000 went toward the actual survey. Fortunately for the United States, Maj. William Emory of the Army Corps of Topographical Engineers accompanied the boundary party. The 39-year-old officer was the most brilliant topographical engineer in the United States. He was asked to be boundary commissioner, but he declined the offer because he didn’t wish to resign his commission. He did agree to be chief astronomer and cartographer. The hapless boundary commissioner was blessed with a competent surveyor, Andrew B. Gray. Nickolas Trist, the U.S. Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo negotiator, had used the Disturnell map that placed El Paso del Norte 42 miles

farther north and 100 miles east of its actual location. Bartlett was prepared to give up that land despite knowing the map was faulty. To finalize the agreement, commissioners and surveyors had to sign off on it. Bartlett signed but Gray refused to sign. He, Emory and Lt. Amiel Whipple agreed the land being given to the Mexicans was vital to the building of a railroad. At the time, the Mexican-American border followed the Gila River across today’s Arizona to the Colorado River, then west to San Diego. Bartlett and Gray wrote letters to Washington defending their positions. Because it would be months before the issue would be resolved, Bartlett took off on a lengthy sightseeing excursion while the engineers continued their boundary work. The issue over the Mesilla Valley was not settled, and for a time it looked like the two nations would go to war again. The boundary survey was virtually teetering on total collapse. In 1853, a railroad man named James Gadsden was sent to Mexico to purchase an additional 29,640 square miles of land south of the Gila River. The Gadsden Purchase, ratified by Congress in 1854, would be the last region added to the Continental United States. A few years later the Southern Pacific Railroad would build a transcontinental line through the new acquisition.

TASTE • DINE

Surf’s Up! Hula’s High Street brings tiki culture to North Phoenix

Hula’s Modern Tiki)

By Christopher Boan

years-long prophecy came to fruition in mid-January, as Dana Mulé’s Hula’s Modern Tiki opened its High Street location. The restaurant is a stone’s throw from the Loop 101 at 5450 N. High Street. The company’s newest restaurant features a garage door opening up to a spacious patio, to go with floral patterned booths, tiki features on walls and other Hawaiian mainstays. It joins

Spam and sweet potato fries are standards at Hula’s Modern Tiki. A new location just opened on High Street.

Hawaiian-inspired drinks are aplenty at Hula’s Modern Tiki. (Photos courtesy

locations on Seventh Street in midtown and First Avenue in Scottsdale. The company’s third location is the result of years of sweat equity and good luck a decade after launching its first restaurant along Central Avenue, according to Mulé. “It’s always amazing when you get to the end of this road, because it’s so much work, especially when so much stress and heart goes into it,” Mulé says. “There’s so much work that’s been done—you have to design and review and then construct and inspect the space. “And I’ll tell you, man, when you finally get to the end, it’s such a sense of relief to just open the doors and allow the public in to enjoy what you’ve created.” Mulé and his team have come a long way since the Central Avenue

location opened in 2009, just south of Camelback. Much of that change stems from the easing of economic tensions from the “Great Recession,” to go with the company’s solid footing in the area. That stability comes from Mulé and his team’s ability to deliver a quality, islandthemed oasis to Phoenicians, with all the greatest hits of Hawaii, done in a style that’s truly unique. “We were blessed. I mean, we opened in 2009 and the bottom of the world had just fallen out,” Mulé says. “All of the sudden you’re opening a business that has a 90% failure rate in the worst depression since 1929. “So, you know, I’ve got to be honest, we were always optimistic, and I never even thought about it, but looking back, I realized I was just too naive.” That naivety allowed Mulé and his associates to enter the city’s restaurant scene full speed ahead, with their lack of fear paying off in the long run. “We probably weren’t as terrified as we probably should have been,” Mulé jokes. “But we’ve been blessed ever since. Man, NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 59

TASTE • DINE The tiki-inspired eatery is unique to the Valley.

The Scorpion Bowl is a blend of light and dark rum, brandy, and pineapple, lemon, and cranberry juice ($18).

The cajun ahi salad, below, features fresh seared ahi, cajun spices and crispy wonton chips.

that store did extremely well. Then we had to move it last year to Seventh Street. The Old Town Scottsdale location has done extremely well. It’s just been a blessing to be able to expand as we have over the last 10 years and sort of give each area of this Valley its own taste of who we are. “The restaurant business—it gets knocked all the time and the people that are in it

tend to complain about it—yet, I think it’s amazing, dude. We get to throw a dinner party for, like, hundreds of our closest friends every night, and people get invited in.” It’s that enthusiasm that’s taken the city’s culinary set by storm over the last 11 years, as Mulé tries to expand his culinary dynasty northward. The decision to move to High Street stemmed from the area’s assortment of shops and restaurants, according to Mulé, as well as the scene’s vibe in general. “I like High Street. I love how it’s walkable, how you can get actually reside there,” Mulé says. “The people right behind it all living in those multifamily units can come over. You can walk the street, you can visit multiple bars and restaurants and shops, and you know, I liked that feeling and we also liked the fact that area is on fire.” Mulé was also drawn to the development, because of the potential for building a truly unique culinary environment that would stand alone in its uniqueness, while also drawing on the successes of his other two locations. The restaurateur says the key to his success with Hula’s stems from his team’s ability to make each of the three locations stand out, with several shared characteristics and a

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slate of unique aspects at each spot. “You want each one to have their own character. So, although the food and the drinks remain consistent—and some of the design elements—you want each one to be a little different,” Mulé says. “So, you have to figure it all out, and I guess that’s the challenge of having multiple locations.” The menu features such creative items as samurai beef sticks, grilled Mongolian beef, skewered with pineapple along with scallions and lime-curry dipping sauce ($9); spicy seaweed salad ($5); “Jawaiian” jerk pork plate, marinated grilled and sliced pork, jerk sauce, plantains, rice, mango salsa and Jamaican Johnny cakes ($16); lemongrassencrusted fresh fish ($13-$19); and the Hunkin Samoa burger, with jack cheese, fried Spam, linguisa sausage, sunny-side-up egg and spicy Hula sauce ($15). The key to Hula’s success, according to Mulé, is the traits that the three locations share with tropical getaways. “It’s like getting right into your home and then you get to take their mind off of all the crap going on in the world for just a couple of hours,” Mulé says. “I mean, it’s a privilege to do what we want to do, particularly nowadays.” Hula’s High Street 5450 E. High Street, Suite 101, Phoenix 480-597-5808, hulasmoderntiki.com

TASTE • DINE The 14-ounce tomahawk duroc pork chop is tender and juicy and served with a custom apple and mixed berry chutney ($39). (Photo courtesy Jeffery Schutt)

Jeffery Schutt is a selftaught chef with a ﬂair for the creative. (Photo courtesy

A Flair

Jeffery Schutt)

for the

CREATIVE

A newcomer to Scottsdale, Gatsby’s makes its mark

The ﬁre pots at Gatsby’s can be seen from nearby mountains. (Photo courtesy Jeffery Schutt)

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

effery Schutt and Melissa Price were thrilled when they found the space for Gatsby’s at Troon. The second-floor room overlooks Troon and provides a Las Vegas vibe with fire pots that can be seen from the mountains beyond. The Carefree-based partners knew they could make the space look like a 1920s speakeasy with a small stage for entertainment. “It sits up high, so it’s unique,” Schutt says. “We have fire pots that you can see all the way out of the mountains. Everybody loves that. The fire pots do a lot of work for us. When people see the flames, they want to stop by. The Las Vegas-style effect is active advertising. It catches the eye as you drive by,

and you tend to look more.” With black walls and red trim, the new restaurant—which Schutt dubs a “top-level steakhouse”—carries a mobster motif. “We chose ‘Gatsby’s’ because it’s the same period of time,” Schutt says. “My partner Melissa, she’s really big into the flapper stuff. I’m the seedier guy from Detroit. “Seriously, I like mobsters. I like the ‘Godfather’ movies. I know them word for word, basically.” At Gatsby’s, it’s all about the experience. “Our method is unique in that we want to provide a consistent and amazing visit for our guests now and in the future, only providing better every time they return,” says Schutt, a self-taught chef.

“From our wonderful global wine list, signature Prohibition-era craft cocktails, to our delicious and French Nouvelle-inspired sauces and proprietary methods of food preparation focusing on letting the steak, seafood or otherwise tell the story of the course with the sauces to add the finesse of luxury and taste.” The steaks are top prime black angus baldy out of Tama, Iowa. “Tama is a really amazing place, and there’s a group of seven ranches there that we pull from,” Schutt says. “Then we have them cut. “All of our steaks are just to die for. We have a proprietary method of doing those that’s much different than the average steakhouse where they have a little sprinkling of some NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 61

TASTE • DINE Gatsby’s is designed like a speakeasy—without the password. (Photo courtesy Jeffery Schutt)

fun. There’s a little bit of sauvignon blanc. I always joke with the customers that there’s a little, and we drink most of it in the kitchen.” The noon to 5 p.m. happy hour lunch is stellar as well, with dishes like blue lump crab twice-baked potato ($13); Bugsy’s brisket burger ($13); and smoky, buttery crab claws ($15).

The colossal shrimp and snow crab comes with a zesty cocktail sauce ($36). (Photo courtesy Jeffery Schutt)

sort of flavor. It’s more unique, so it holds its flavor and juiciness better.” Another signature dish is the 14-ounce Tomahawk Duroc pork chop ($39) that’s served with custom apple and mixed berry chutney. Just for the Halibut is a popular dish as well. The 6-ounce, wild-caught Alaskan white fish is set atop tender sprouts, accompanied by a housemade lemon-dill beurre blanc ($37). “We have a wonderful halibut that’s super popular,” Schutt says. “It comes with a lemon dill and beurre blanc sauce. It’s just a lot of

Self-made entrepreneur Schutt grew up in Toledo, where he attended a Catholic high school before heading to the University of Toledo. He entered the restaurant business in 1977 through the neighboring Tony Packo’s Restaurant, best known as a favorite of actor Jamie Farr. Schutt worked there as a dishwasher, busboy and

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barback for $1.90 an hour—and some of that went to Teamsters union dues. “Tony Packo’s is a phenomenal Hungarian restaurant,” he says. “As a matter of fact, we carry their pickles still to this day. I do pickles and peppers. They’re kind of an extended family of mine. I’m Hungarian. “Tony Packo was just an amazing man. He got me into appreciating entertainment because we did Dixieland jazz. It’s one of those restaurants where people from all around the world—famous people, actors, dignitaries and

TASTE • DINE presidents—all visited there.” Schutt has also worked as a railroad conductor; in executive security for Domino’s Pizza founder/one-time Detroit Tigers owner Tom Monaghan during the 1984 World Series in Detroit; and was the owner of a disc jockey company. “While I was working as a DJ, I learned about the culture of food because having receptions involves food and drink,” Schutt says. “We had some pretty crazy good times in the ’80s, early ’90s.” Schutt was inspired by Monaghan and Packo. “I would just shut up and listen and observe,” he says. “Tony was just very detail oriented and he was fast. We were turning over those tables quickly. He had a great way with his employees. He really cared. Everyone was family.” Price worked in military aerospace divisions for Lockheed Martin for 26 years and went on to become a private consultant in the aerospace industry for another 16-plus years. She’s a former Carefree town councilwoman and vice mayor. “She’s actually the stable part,” he says. “I’m the wrecking ball, but you know, her and my view of this is to make it really unique.”

Cozy corners

Gatsby’s is about more than food. The cozy room seats 38 at tables, 10 at the bar and 30 outside. “We’re small for a particular reason,” Schutt says. “I normally do upward of a thousand seats for restaurants and bars. This new one I chose to do more boutique.” The familial feelings carry over to the staff, of which Schutt is proud—sous chef Jesse White; plongeur Todd Balvin; lead server Caitlyn Prinke; servers Destiny Elias and Jason Ellis; bartenders Farrah Jones and Jenn Griffin; “aspiring bartender” Ava Rath; hostess Katherine Bauer and “Mr. Fix It” John Murray. Gatsby’s is open Wednesday to Sunday because Schutt and Price believe in giving their Chocolate-covered strawberries round out the menu ($10). (Photo courtesy Jeffery Schutt)

staff two days to decompress. Performers like Miguel Melgoza and Chris Putrino take the stage to provide the soundtrack to dinner. On Valentine’s Day, Gatsby’s will host a murder mystery penned by Dev Ross of Sedona, a screenwriter and children’s author. “She’s just phenomenal. She writes a lot of stuff with a lady named Shondra Jepperson up there. It’s a fantastic group who comes down. It’s really a hoot. It’s hysterical. It’s a mob comedy. We encourage everyone to come in dressed like the Roaring ’20s.” Schutt hosts special evenings, as well. Gatsby Girls Who Wine is held from 4 to 5 p.m. the first Thursday of the month, while Boys, Babes and Bourbon is 4 to 5 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. “Gatsby Girls Who Wine is a group of ladies who come in and try a flight of wines that we pair with appetizers,” he says. “We did rosés, which was just wonderful. We had a whole bunch of ladies here, in what we call our flapper pit area here. I come out here and I chat with them. For $20, it’s a screaming deal. They get an education and it takes about an hour, hour and a half. We don’t rush them out the door. I like to have fun with them.” Boys, Babes and Bourbon sometimes doesn’t live up to its name. “I’m finding there are a lot more babes who like bourbon than the boys,” he says. “We pair up beautiful bourbons and bourbon whiskeys with fun bits that make sense.” Wine dinners are aplenty; the next one is a masquerade wine dinner on Tuesday, February 25. “We also do beautiful wine dinners,” he says. “We have one coming up with J Lohr wines. It’s just a phenomenal vineyard in Paso Robles. “Paso Robles is really coming a long way with its wines this year. The cabernets are just to die for. I tried a nice sauvignon blanc the other day with them and I was just ecstatic.” Schutt is proud of what he has created. “We are very proud to offer our wonderful and unique menus in a thematic setting of times gone by that were known for glamour, glitz, a touch of keeping your back to the wall to see your enemies, jazz and so much more that made our country great in the Roaring ’20s,” he says.

A TABLE FOR TWO? Phind it

Gatsby’s 28190 N. Alma School Parkway, Suite 209, Scottsdale 480-687-8182, gatsbystroon.com, gatsbystroon@gmail.com NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 63

TASTE • DINE

Detroit Proud

David Najor says his faith in God assures he’ll be successful— and he has with Detroit Coney Grill, which recently opened in Scottsdale. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

David Najor brings the ﬂavors of Michigan to Scottsdale By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

hen David Najor moved to Arizona, he brought the feelings, the work ethic and the love he has for Michigan. His new Detroit Coney Grill restaurant in Scottsdale is peppered with Great Lakes State freeway signs and photos of famous Michiganders, but more importantly there’s the food. The Detroit native lines his shelves

with Sanders hot fudge, Better Made chips, Sanders trail mix and Vernors and Faygo pop—not soda here—everything Michiganders have come to love. Coneys are the top dog here, with chili, mustard and onions piled high. “I noticed the Coneys out here were garbage and a lot of the restaurants out here were not

Detroit Coney Grill recently opened in North Scottsdale with a cadre of Michigan products. (Photo by Pablo Robles) 64 FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM

mom-and-pop establishments,” Najor says in between guests’ hugs. “It was all chain after chain after chain. Everyone thought I was going to fail because it’s a new business, new state, new industry, but I just kept it simple.” Najor and his family are in the grocery store business, but by keeping it simple, he has found success with food. “I just treat people the way I would want to be treated,” Najor says. “I offer good food at a fair price. I have God on my side, so I can’t lose—ever.” The extensive menu includes a Detroit Coney ($4.85); the Detroit loose burger ($5.45), seasoned ground beef with chili, mustard and onions; and a “plain” Coney dog ($4.45) with mustard, ketchup, relish, onions and kraut. There are other odes to Michigan, such as the Big Mack “Inaw”—named after the village—that includes four hamburger patties, cheese, lettuce, pickles, onions and Thousand

TASTE • DINE Detroit Coney Grill has Michigan products like Better Made Chips. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Island dressing on a tri-level bun ($7.95). Boneless Red Wings ($5.95) are boneless tenderloins with Frank’s Red Hot Sauce. Occasionally he carries Sanders “bumpy cake,” and Superman ice cream, two standards in Michigan. The menu wraps with pitas, salads, appetizers like pretzel bites and buffalo cauliflower, burger sliders and pub sliders. In Scottsdale, he serves breakfast of skillets/ omelets, breakfast burritos and sides like pancakes and turkey sausage. The chili is proprietary, but, Najor says, he starts with National Coney Island chili and adds his own beef and spices. He’s won awards from the Food Network and Travel Channel. “Travel Channel thinks our burgers are the ninth best in the country,” Najor says. “I beg to differ. We grind our own beef. The hot dogs are all made by hand. We use the

same dogs as Tiger Stadium and Lafayette Coney Island.” The new location at Hayden and Indian Bend roads is ideal, Najor says. He recently added a covered patio, which will be perfect for the Spring Training crowds. More than 60,000 cars a day pass by the free-standing building, according to Najor. “I fell in love with the corner,” he says. “I fell in love with the traffic and the fact that I had a free-standing building. The fact that I was able to build a patio in Arizona is a plus because everyone eats outside.” Most of his memorabilia is donated, but he’s careful about what he accepts. Michiganders love his restaurant, he says. “I love a lot of Detroiters coming here,” Najor says. “There are more at this location than the other two locations combined. It used to be maybe 5% to 7% of my customer base was in Michigan. Here, it’s double at least. “Most of them live out this way or they’re willing to come to this location. I love it when Detroit customers come in here. They’re the ones who are going to post about it on social Detroit Coney Grill media, ‘Hey, you got owner David Najor, to go try Superman ice left, has a laugh with customer Tim Schraser. cream.’” (Photo by Pablo Robles) He has a deal with

Detroit Coney Grill boasts an outdoor patio. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Faygo to have the pop shipped to his store. “I get mine direct because I’m in the supermarket business,” Najor says. “I also know the CEO of Faygo very well. I call him all the time. I was trying to get Rock and Rye (a flavor of Faygo) pop slushies out here, but I had to buy a certain machine. I just wasn’t really willing to invest in it yet.” The Scottsdale restaurant is the prototype for Najor’s restaurants moving forward. He’ll have beer, wine and liquor like his new store. “Customers really appreciate a great burger with a good beer,” says Najor, who attended Wayne State University. He’s been asked to introduce Detroitstyle pizza, but he’s friends with Jet’s Pizza’s owner. He knows, however, he still has the recipe for success. “I say this and I mean this: I’ll never lose, because I have God on my side,” Najor says. “What that means is I’m not scared. The fear is gone, because when you know he’s behind you, you do the right thing. You bust your tail, you work hard, you treat your people with respect no matter who it is. You follow God’s ways and you’ll be successful.” Detroit Coney Grill 6953 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale 480-597-4300 930 W. Broadway Road,Tempe 80-219-7430 16 W. Adams Street, Phoenix 602-253-0292 detroitconeygrill.com NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 65

TASTE • DINE

What’s Cooking

With JAN D’ATRI

Flourless Chocolate Cake

t has always been a favorite dessert in finedining establishments. Flourless Chocolate Cake is that elegant finishing touch that makes a gourmet meal satisfying, sweet and complete. But can you really create a delicious chocolate cake with just three ingredients? Yes, you can, and that’s what makes this cake so delightful. You really don’t believe it until it comes out of the oven, cooled and ready to be cut. Before making this particular threeingredient chocolate, I spent hours viewing flourless chocolate cake recipes and techniques online. Do you use eggs straight from the fridge or should they be room temperature? Do you melt the chocolate and butter over the stove in a double boiler or in the microwave? Do you bake the cake in a water bath or not? Does it take 20 minutes in a high-temperature oven or one hour at a lower temperature? So many questions! Finally, why would you put garbanzo beans, black beans or quinoa in the batter when all you really need to create chocolate decadence are three simple ingredients: chocolate, eggs and butter. (I did

take liberties, however, and added a pinch of salt to sharpen up the flavors, but it’s still basically three ingredients.) Most of the videos had decent results, but I was set on keeping it

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simple so this cake could possibly be declared one of your new go-to treats. I think it will be, because it’s decadently delicious and as easy as one, two, three!

3-Ingredient Flourless Chocolate Cake Ingredients: - 8 eggs - 16 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1 cup butter - Pinch of salt, optional - For garnish, add powdered sugar, whipped cream or fresh berries Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8- or 9-inch cake pan or springform pan. Select a baking sheet or roasting pan in which the cake pan will set. (You will add water to the bottom of the sheet or roasting pan.) In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips with the butter. Melt at 45-second intervals, and stir until the chocolate and butter are fully melt-

ed and combined. With an electric mixer, beat the eggs for 6 to 8 minutes or until double in size. The eggs should be foamy and light colored. Pour the melted chocolate into a large bowl. Spoon 1/3 of the whipped eggs into the chocolate and gently fold until combined. Add the remainder of the eggs into the chocolate and fold until completely combined. Pour mixture into a prepared cake pan. If using a springform pan, seal the outside and bottom with aluminum foil and place on a sheet or roasting pan. Place in oven. Pour 1 to 2 inches of hot water into the roasting pan. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes up clean. Do not overbake. When done, let cool. (The cake will deﬂate.) Serve in wedges and garnish with powdered sugar, whipped cream or berries.

Watch my how-to video for ﬂourless chocolate cake here: jandatri.com/recipe/ﬂourless-chocolate-cake

BETTER • HEALTH By Catherine Hathaway

Helping Others Personal trainer Carter Lay lifts clients into the New Year

ew Year Resolutions may be intimidating for people looking to make healthier decisions or improve their workout routine. Anthem personal trainer Carter Lay is making health and wellness goals manageable at the Anthem Community and SkinSport Fitness centers. “I’ve been working out for the last five years,” Lay says. “I always knew I wanted to do something around fitness and that would help other people.” Lay started training people he knew through friends and saw how other people grew and it strengthened his own love of fitness. ACE certified, Lay wants to understand his clients’ fitness levels, desires and experiences to best tailor a workout to them. “First of all, I find out what their age is and if they have precious exercise experience,” Lay says. “I don’t want to push anyone too hard with no fitness experience. We advance the workout every week.” Lay says clients have different goals for their personal training sessions. “I’ve done the whole spectrum from people losing weight to gaining strength,” Lay says. “I like finding athletes who want to focus on strength and conditioning.” The New Year is the time to set goals. Lay knows a lot of people have resolutions and he wants to help them achieve those goals. “For 2020, people who want to lose weight or build strength, I’d love to help them out,” Lay says. A Sacramento native, Lay moved to Anthem in the fifth grade. He graduated from Boulder Creek High School, where he played basketball and baseball. Recently, he’s enjoyed competing in bodybuilding competitions and took second place at a national show in Pittsburgh. “I have another show this year,” Lay says. “I will probably do it as long as I can. When I first started lifting it was about sports and stuff like that, but I really have a love for training now. I’ve made it a lifestyle and something I want to do for the rest of your life.” Carter Lay 916-296-9955, cartr88@yahoo.com

NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM FEBRUARY 2020 | MARCH 2020 67

BETTER • HEALTH

In Treatment

Among the newest spas in the Valley, the Away Spa opened in late 2019 at the W Hotel Scottsdale. (Photo courtesy the Away Spa)

Stunning spas abound in the North Valley

By Alison Bailin Batz

hile self-care is critical to one’s health, physically and mentally, we all could use an extra hand when it comes to properly taking care of ourselves from

time to time. Thankfully, the North Valley features some of the top spas in the nation, each of which is always innovating, updating and reimagining its treatments and spaces to relax, rejuvenate and reinvigorate guests’ minds, bodies and souls. Here are some that have recently invested in themselves so they can better invest in taking care of you.

massage or body peel, begins with a signature W opening ritual to prepare the body for ultimate pampering.The Away Spa even features a “secret menu” that can be accessed via secret code. It also has something truly unique to the market in its Spa After Dark program. Ideal for groups, bachelorette parties and Girls’ Night Out, this service lets guests rent out the spa for a night of over-the-top pampering. That includes a live DJ, juice-fueled cocktails

The Away Spa at the W Hotel Scottsdale

In late 2019, the W Hotel Scottsdale opened a new spa concept: The Away Spa. By design, it ditches tradition at every turn, starting with check-in, which doubles as a four-stool bar serving up signature cocktails and specialty drinks made with local ingredients, and a curated food menu to savor pre-treatment. Each spa therapy service, whether a facial,

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and bottomless bubbly as well as face, beauty and body treatments. Info: scottsdaleawayspa.com

The Spa at Civana Wellness Resort & Spa

This wellness resort debuted almost exactly a year ago and is built on four pillars: movement, spa, nourishment and discovery. Its two-story, 22,000-square-foot spa centers around the The Spa at CIVANA has a dreamy hydro-therapy circuit, available to all spa guests, that utilizes alternating hot and cold elements to both boost circulation and calm the mind. (Photo by Lisa Diederich Photography)

BETTER • HEALTH theme of “healing through water” and features 23 treatment areas including one Watsu therapy pool, two couples treatment rooms, three wet treatment rooms including a Vichy shower, five facial rooms, and 14 massage rooms. There is also a communal area of hydrotherapy immersions—the Aqua Vitality Circuit—that includes a European-designed Kneipp hot/cold wading pool, therapeutic soaking pool, a cold deluge shower, and the five-climate Klafs Sanarium. Beyond the actual spa, however, the entire resort is set up as a wellness center and restorative escape. As such, there is a full menu of daily programming throughout the resort that draws upon varied disciplines and techniques and including fitness, culinary, and personal and spiritual growth with everything from Spirit Animal workshops to aerial yoga classes. Info: civanacarefree.com

The Spa at The Camelback Inn

This is the granddaddy of them all. When it was built in 1989,The Spa at Camelback Inn was the largest and most comprehensive resort spa in the Southwest, and one of the first in the country to offer a comprehensive fitness and exercise center, a unique blend of desert-inspired body and massage treatments, lifestyle-enhancing wellness programs and Scottsdale’s first spa restaurant. Relevant and always being refreshed, the 32,000-square-foot spa features 32 treatment rooms, a heated outdoor lap pool, private poolside cabanas, separate men’s and women’s locker rooms, coed Jacuzzi, a full-service hair and nail salon, skin care boutique, retail spa boutique and one of the best juice bars in the state. A favorite here takes men into account with a full Men’s Zone package, which includes a Native American-inspired healing treatment using actual clay to nourish and detoxify one’s body. After the wrap itself, Southwesterninsured soap and cactus fiber cloth are provided to shower off the clay as well as to relax the muscles. It’s followed by a 60-minute therapeutic massage, which can be customized. Info: bit.ly/2GPLK8M

Revive Spa at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

Last year, the 28,000-square-foot Revive Spa expanded its fitness center to almost 3,500 square feet adding all new Life Fitness exercise machines, six new Peloton spin bikes and

The Phoenician Spa feels brand new after a multimillion-dollar reimagining in the past two years. (Photo courtesy The Phoenician)

cardiovascular equipment complete with WiFi capabilities and TV screens. An 870-squarefoot movement studio was also added and expanded that includes a Precor Queenax wall unit with TRX capability. Just outside the fitness center, the spa’s new 600-square-foot yoga lawn, lined with artificial grass, overlooks the resort’s 21,000-square-foot Chef ’s Garden and can accommodate group yoga classes in season. Beyond that, there are 41 treatment rooms as well as a sanctuary pool, a bistro, hydrotherapy enclaves, cabanas, relaxation room, saunas, whirlpools and an evolving menu of services. Of particular note are the water-based treatment options with myriad benefits for the mind and body. One tailor-made for this time of year is the 50-minute Magnesium Detox Wrap, which improves muscle function, energy generation and alleviates cramps. Info: bit.ly/2GTojeJ

The Phoenician Spa at The Phoenician

About 18 months ago,The Phoenician completed the biggest renovation and refresh in the storied resort’s 30 years. As part of the multiyear, multimillion-dollar project, The Phoenician Spa was completely rebuilt from the ground up into one of the most stunningly beautiful havens for men and women.The now-three-story spa features a glamorous rooftop pool with cabanas and full dining menu, 24 treatment rooms, a massive salon, two relaxation lounges and both men’s

and women’s locker rooms with intricately designed steam rooms, saunas, oversized Jacuzzis, showers and more. Its treatments also continue to be cutting edge. In addition to standard and seasonal offerings,The Phoenician Spa offers everything from harmonic bowl healing to tarot card readings where an intuitive guide helps you to delve into a deeper understanding of your life and overall being. Info: thephoenician.com/spa

Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

At 44,000-square-feet, the Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess somehow manages to be intimate and inviting. From its well-appointed locker rooms, eucalyptus inhalation room, aromatherapy blending bar, rooftop pool, cold plunge pools and indoor-outdoor whirlpools, Well & Being could easily be renamed “Indulge & Luxuriate.” Its menu of services has traditional and outof-the-box offerings, including a Havasupai Falls Rejuvenation body scrub inspired by the Southwest.The experience starts with a sage smudging to cleanse one’s energy, then a scrub using essential oil that has been infused with desert salts. After a rain shower, there is a thermal mineral magnesium soak and massage with jojoba and salt stones, followed by a Sedona clay mask for the face a scalp massage and herbal wrap. Info: bit.ly/3aZAoNz

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