Scottsdale Airpark News - April 2021

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Y E A R S

APRIL 2021

Business

LEADERS of the

AIRPARK Avery Lane and others share leadership secrets in new SAN feature

Karma electrifies the luxury car market

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t cocktail parties, on the tee box and amongst the ladies who lunch, there’s a subtle whisper about an unusual design mecca — Consignment. The valley’s most savvy shoppers and discerning designers are regulars at Avery Lane Fine Consignments and they are rewarded with great deals on one-of-a-kind home décor. Avery Lane’s design style is “Paris Apartment” which is a curated aesthetic of items collected from a lifetime of international travels, inherited from generations or salvaged when the flat upstairs was vacated. And, the 30,000 sq. ft. of inventory is like a Parisian merry-go-round — constantly changing and revolving. Come check it out … sit for a spell … we’ll pour the champagne. Discover more at AveryLaneHome.com

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Contents April

36

24

42

14 Wish Ball

28 Time-Honored Craftsmanship

Make-A-Wish event raises more than $3.1 million

Stone Creek Furniture celebrates 30 years as a leader

16 A Global Adventure

Food is Brent Menke’s dream come true

31 Planning for Financial Success

24 Giving Back

Despite pandemic, Troon continues its charitable ways

Foley & Giolitto CPA offers tax preparation and planning strategies that save clients money

26 Demonstrating Commitment

34 Driving into Luxury

Ferguson leads by taking care of its own

Toy Barn puts high-end spin on garages

11 Project in Trouble?

32 Weathering the Storm

19 Phoenix Holocaust Association

42 A Taste for… Scottsdale

$60M in liens against $2B Ritz project here

We must keep talking about it

Avery Lane sees growth despite pandemic, hopeful for future Pairing cravings with culinary creations nearby

2 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

36 Turning Heads

Karma charges into the Scottsdale Airpark

39 Looking Beyond Tragedy Grand Canyon Decon cleans with care

45 Remembering the Good Ol’ Days

Patrons leave with a Cheshire grin from the Cat’s Pajamas

48 So Fresh and So Clean Sauvignon blanc shines in the spring

6 50 54 55 55 56

Business News Remember When Business Horoscopes Business Directory Ad Index Scottsdale Airpark Map

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PUBLISHER Steve T. Strickbine steve@scottsdaleairpark.com VICE PRESIDENT Michael Hiatt mhiatt@timespublications.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Ryan Brown rbrown@timespublications.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR Christina Fuoco-Karasinski christina@timespublications.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Pablo Robles CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alison Bailin Batz, Kristine Cannon, Connor Dziawura, Abbie S. Fink, Joan Fudala, Weiss Kelly, Kamala Kirk, Laura Latzko, Bridgette M. Redman, Wayne Schutsky, Annika Tomlin DESIGNER Veronica Thurman vthurman@timespublications.com AD DESIGN Christy Byerly - cbyerly@timespublications.com

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Published monthly since 1981, Scottsdale Airpark News serves the fastest-growing area in Arizona. Scottsdale Airpark News is delivered to businesses in and around the Greater Airpark Area. ©2020 Scottsdale Airpark News.

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AIRPARK BusinessNews

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

New retail property in Scottsdale sells for $3.5 million

The newly completed retail property at 14850 N. 87th Street in Scottsdale has been sold for $3.5 million.

The local owners of YC’s Mongolian Grill purchased the property and plan to relocate their former Pavilions Talking Stick restaurant to the building’s northern endcap.

GW Raintree LLC of Scottsdale was the purchasing entity, buying the property from 101 Mega Raintree LLC of Scottsdale. Brian Woods of Colliers in Arizona handled the sale transaction.

The 8,424-square-foot building was completed in 2020 and sits on 1.14 acres of land. The project is located between the Loop 101 and the Scottsdale Airpark.

YC’s Mongolian Grill will join Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea and G.O.A.T. Haircuts in the building.

“The buyer was looking for a North Scottsdale investment opportunity where

The 101 Mega Raintree was developed by Scottsdale developer Jim Riggs and is a 15-acre mixed-use project on the southwest corner of Raintree and 101, just north of Kohl’s. (Photo courtesy of Colliers)

they could open a new restaurant,” Woods said. “This property checked all the boxes and was a win-win for both buyer and seller.”

The 101 Mega Raintree was developed

by Scottsdale developer Jim Riggs and is a 15-acre mixed use project on the southwest corner of Raintree and 101, just north of

Kohl’s. It includes a Public Storage project recently completed by Wentworth, a 320-unit luxury multifamily project under construction by Wood Partners, and a multitenant retail building.

“Colliers has been excellent to work with, and Brian has handled leasing and sales admirably,” Riggs said.

Michael Golding named Waste Management Phoenix Open tourney chairman The Thunderbirds, hosts of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, have named Dr. Michael Golding the tournament chairman for the 2022 edition of “The People’s Open,” which will be played in early February 2022 at TPC Scottsdale. Additionally, The Thunderbirds announced that Pat Williams has been named assistant tournament chairman for the 2022 event.

Golding assumes the role of tournament chairman after serving last year as assistant tournament chairman alongside Scott Jenkins. He will guide The Thunderbirds in the planning and execution of all facets of the

Dr. Michael Golding is the tournament chairman for the 2022 edition of “The People’s Open,” which will be played in early February 2022 at TPC Scottsdale.

(Submitted photo)

2022 event, including sponsorship generation and renewals, security and safety, recruiting PGA TOUR players to the event, community relations, logistics, and development of on-course venues.

“It is such an honor to be named the 2022 tournament chairman, and I’m going to work as hard as I can alongside my fellow Thunderbirds to put on the best event possible next year,” Golding said.

“We are extremely proud of the growth and success of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, but we are equally as proud of the impact

the tournament has on the community and our hundreds of charity partners who benefit each year from ‘The People’s Open.’”

Golding is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon who co-leads the practice of Oral and Facial Surgeons of Arizona. He also is the official oral and maxillofacial Surgeon of the Phoenix Suns and Arizona State University athletics and is on staff at Banner University Medical Center and HonorHealth Scottsdale.

The Thunderbirds were founded in 1937 with the mission of promoting the Valley of the Sun through sports. The Thunderbirds consist of 55 “active” members and more than 280 “life” members who have helped the tournament eclipse $161 million in charitable giving since its inception in 1932 (through the 2020 tournament).

Info: wmphoenixopen.com.

Arizona Window and Door opens new design center on East Redfield Road Arizona Window and Door opened a new location in Scottsdale Airpark at 7625 E. Redfield Road on April 1.

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of our brand-new design center in the Scottsdale Airpark,” says Greg McNamee, principal of Arizona Window and Door.

“We can’t wait to show our customers a world-class shopping experience as they

focus on improving the comfort of their homes. All are welcome to stop by and meet our dedicated service teams and let us demonstrate a better way to shop for replacement windows and doors.”

While Arizona Window and Door has had a location in Scottsdale Airpark since the company was founded in 2014, the new design center will offer an enhanced

6 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

shopping experience for customers. The showroom will be built out like a house, with rooms to showcase dozens of doors and window styles. Sliding patio doors and windows will be full-sized and finished out in order to demonstrate functionality, design styles, energy efficiency and soundproofing.

Info: azwindowanddoor.com …continues on page 8

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AIRPARK BusinessNews …continued from page 6

Forbes names Trevor Wilde among top advisers in Arizona

Wilde Wealth Management Group’s CEO and investor adviser representative Trevor Wilde was named to Forbes’ 2021 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list. Ninetynine advisers from across Arizona were named to the prestigious list, with Wilde being named the No. 2 overall adviser statewide.

According to Forbes, this ranking of Best-In-State Wealth Advisors, developed

by Shook Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, gained through telephone, virtual and in-person due-diligence interviews and quantitative data.

Those advisers who are considered have a minimum of seven years’ experience, and the algorithm weights factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience, and those that encompass best practices in their approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criterion due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Neither Forbes

nor Shook receives a fee in exchange for rankings.

The honor comes on the heels of a busy year for Wilde, who just last March was named to Barron’s top 1,200 advisers nationwide, coming in at No. 1 overall in Arizona. It was Wilde’s 12th consecutive year being honored and first No. 1 ranking.

He was also named in late 2020 as among the “AZ Business Angels” by AZ Business Magazine for his philanthropic leadership across the Southwest. Beyond the honors, Wilde also joined the boards for both Junior Achievement of Arizona and Child Crisis Arizona in the past 12 months, and grew his team exponentially, including expanding his Scottsdale-area headquarters and adding new affiliate partners Self Wealth Management in Scottsdale, Mosaic Financial Associates in Tempe and Premier Wealth Management Group in Albuquerque.

Wilde began his work in the industry in earnest in 2000, initially at a large

Spirit of Scottsdale award winners named The Spirit of Scottsdale awards, sponsored by the city’s Neighborhood Advisory Commission, recognize people and places that embody the spirit of our community by preserving, improving and strengthening neighborhoods.

“These awards are very dear to the Neighborhood Advisory Commission,” said Commission Staff Coordinator Brandon McMahon.

“They provide an opportunity to recognize those who are involved in strengthening neighborhood identity and provide unique contributions to Scottsdale’s neighborhoods.”

Due to the pandemic, the city is recognizing the 2019 and 2020 award winners.

Two categories of winners, Individual and Group/Organization, were selected for both years.

The 2020 Individual Winner was Dana Close. Neighbors describe Close as a beacon of light and hope for their South Scottsdale Hacienda del Ray

neighborhood. The area was in need of a facelift. Close joined her homeowners association and regularly attended city council meetings. Thanks in part to her efforts, the city council prioritized the redevelopment of the McDowell Road Corridor. To showcase the improved neighborhood, Close created annual Scottsdale Home Tour events. Her efforts changed the way people thought and talked about South Scottsdale.

Besides Close, winners include: T h e 2 0 1 9 I n d i v i d u a l Wi n n e r — Marilyn Perkins: Perkins is a tireless volunteer with a huge heart. She has been an Old Town Ambassador far longer than when the city officially kicked off the program in 2006. Ambassadors serve as a primary point of contact for Old Town Scottsdale visitors.

2019 Group/Organization Winner — First Christian Church: A tight group of 12 members has supported Operation Fix It for the last 10 years. Operation

firm primarily focused on retirement planning and investments. Eager to offer a deeper breadth of services and strategic planning to his clients, Wilde partnered with his father, Bill, in 2003 to found an independent practice, Wilde Wealth Management Group. Their mission was two-fold: to offer boutique, customized investment planning advice and to offer clients expanded in-house service offerings from fellow independent specialists in the fields of legal, taxes, risk management, family services, real estate and insurance.

Over the past two decades, Wilde, who earned his master ’s degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix, has helped grow the firm across Arizona and throughout the Southwest.

Wilde is actively recruiting new advisers for all his offices across Arizona, which are located in Scottsdale, Tempe, Glendale, Tucson and Payson. There is also a satellite office in Terra Haute, Indiana.

Info: wildewealth.com.

Fix It provides assistance to Scottsdale homeowners who need exterior improvements but are unable to do so due to physical or financial limitations. Many clients are elderly and face potential code enforcement fines. This not-so-dirty dozen annually contributes 180 volunteer service hours.

2020 Group/Organization Winner — Parada del Sol Committee: Years ago, when the Parada del Sol and Trails End celebration were at a crossroads, this small group of dedicated volunteers took over the planning and execution of these historical events. The committee works hundreds of hours each year to ensure these traditions continue. Recently, it forged a partnership with the nonprofit Charros to add horsepower to the game.

The Scottsdale City Council virtually recognized the winners at a recent council meeting. …continues on page 10

WE WANT YOUR NEWS! Send your Greater Airpark/North Scottsdale business news to editor@scottsdaleairpark.com.

8 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

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AIRPARK BusinessNews …continued from page 8

Grimaldi’s spring menu has fresh flavors

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is welcoming the arrival of spring with its new seasonal menu, Garden of Flavors. Available through June 7, the limited-time menu highlights the simplicity of in-season ingredients like fresh asparagus, artichokes and sweet spring peaches.

Garden of Flavors seasonal menu items: Panzanella Salad: Rustic Tuscan chopped salad with tomatoes, cucumbers and red onions, tossed in Grimaldi’s tangy house dressing. Served over arugula with Gorgonzola cheese, Kalamata olives and coal-fired croutons.

Bacon and asparagus pizza: Served with spicy honey, artichoke pesto pizza topped with asparagus, bacon and red onion, finished with a drizzle of red pepper-infused honey.

Banana cream cheesecake: Banana cheesecake with a Nilla Wafer crust, garnished with whipped cream and Nilla Wafers.

Caramel coconut cheesecake: Caramel cheesecake on top of an Oreo cookie crust, topped with caramel glaze and toasted coconut. Finished with a chocolate drizzle and whipped cream.

Kentucky peach mule: Buffalo Trace bourbon, peach puree and fresh lemon juice shaken and served over ice topped with Gosling’s ginger beer.

Guava margarita: Gran Centenario Anejo Tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice and guava puree, shaken and served over ice.

The bacon and asparagus pizza at Grimaldi’s is served with spicy honey, artichoke pesto pizza topped with asparagus, bacon and red onion, finished with a drizzle of red pepper-infused honey. (Photo courtesy of Grimaldi’s)

The Kentucky peach mule, guava margarita and peach Bellini are part of the Grimaldi’s “Garden of Flavors” menu. (Photo courtesy of Grimaldi’s)

uBreakiFix brings smartphone repair to Scottsdale Electronics repair shop uBreakiFix is open in Scottsdale at 16459 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 103. The store offers repairs on smartphones, tablets and computers to help Scottsdale and the surrounding communities stay connected.

Located in the Scottsdale Promenade Plaza, uBreakiFix Scottsdale allows customers to easily fit device repair into their daily schedule with the ability to complete most basic repairs in under two hours.

“It’s no secret that a cracked screen is a frustrating inconvenience,” said Brian Donnelly, director of stores for uBreakiFix. “That’s why at uBreakiFix, we understand the importance of customer service.

Not only do we provide expert repairs with the highest-quality parts available, but

we value each customer relationship and respect their time by offering convenient and affordable repairs in a matter of hours.”

While common devices include smartphones, tablets and computers, uBreakiFix offers repair service on anything with a power button, including drones, hoverboards and game consoles. The store offers support for most technical problems on any electronic device, regardless of make or model.

Founded in 2009 by entrepreneurs Justin Wetherill and David Reiff to fill a gap in the market for affordable, highquality phone repair, uBreakiFix soon partnered with Eddie Trujillo to transition from an internet-based repair brand to a brick-and-mortar model. uBreakiFix began

10 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

Peach Bellini: La Marca Prosecco and peach puree.

The menu is available for dine-in, carryout or third-party delivery. In addition to the new “Garden of Flavors” menu, Grimaldi’s added a 12-inch cauliflower pizza crust option to its everyday menu, available in 12-inch traditional, white and pesto. New additions to the everyday cocktail menu include a top-shelf margarita and a strawberry basil spritz, available year-round.

Info: grimaldispizzeria.com

franchising in 2013 and operates more than 600 locations across the United States and Canada.

“At uBreakiFix, our story has been shaped by an unwavering commitment to continually improving the repair experience for customers,” Wetherill says.

“We founded this company to fill a need for high-quality, convenient repair with great service at a fair price. We always say we’re a customer service company first and a tech company second. As we begin serving Scottsdale and the surrounding communities, we look forward to sharing the care and credibility that define the uBreakiFix experience.”

Info: 480-588-6769, ubreakifix.com/ locations/scottsdale 

AIRPARK Buzz Contractors have filed more than $60 million in claims for unpaid bills for work on The Palmeraie, a $2 billion Ritz-Carlton-anchored development on the Paradise Valley-Scottsdale border, near Lincoln Drive and Indian Bend.

(Photo by Pablo Robles)

Project in Trouble? $60M in liens against $2B Ritz project here

C

By Wayne Schutsky ontractors have filed more than $60 million in claims over unpaid bills for work on The Palmeraie, the $2 billion Ritz-Carlton-anchored development that is scheduled to debut its first phase later this year.

The development, which straddles the Paradise Valley-Scottsdale border north of Downtown Scottsdale, covers 122 acres and will include a Ritz-Carlton resort, residential villas, multimillion-dollar homes, retail, dining and office space.

Utah-based Layton Construction, the lead contractor on the project, filed three liens between December and March totaling $46.7 million for nonpayment against an entity owned by Palmeraie developer Five Star Development, according to documents filed with the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office.

Twenty-three subcontractors — which perform services like painting, roofing and HVAC work — have also filed 35 separate mechanic’s liens totaling $17.2 million.

According to the liens filed by Layton, the company signed contracts worth up to $259 million in 2016 and 2019 with Five Star Resort Owner LLC to construct the hotel and villas and perform associated site work.

Five Star Resort Owner LLC is owned

outright by Five Star Development President Jerry Ayoub, according to Arizona Corporation Commission records.

In a statement provided to the Scottsdale Airpark News, a spokesman for Layton said the construction company terminated its contract with Five Star Development.

“This action comes after numerous written requests to Five Star Resort Owner asking that it honor its contractual obligations and pay many millions of dollars owing and long overdue to us and all subcontractors/suppliers,” according to the statement.

A spokesperson for Five Star Development says the lien totals by the Scottsdale Airpark News on the basis of court records are inaccurate. The company did not respond to a follow-up request for information showing where the court records are in error.

Five Star Development CFO David Humphreys characterized the liens as a normal part of doing business as the developer transitions away from working with Layton to a new general contractor, PWI Construction.

“The liens filed from the former contractor are a normal and expected result of that transition process and are in no way indicative of the project being at risk for …continues on page 12 APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

11

AIRPARK Buzz …continued from page 11 noncompletion,” Humphreys says. “Contractors have been paid and are being paid.

If and when there is a dispute, a process would be underway to resolve it.”

But Layton Construction says it ended the contract due to nonpayment and that it and subcontractors continue to go unpaid for work already performed.

“In our industry, this is an unfortunate turn of events because workers want to finish projects they start but they also have to be paid,” Layton says. “We and our subcontractors have invested a significant amount of time in this project.

“Unfortunately, we had no choice considering the millions of dollars long overdue and unpaid despite repeated pleas to Five Star Resort owner to pay the many local businesses and hard-working men and women who worked tirelessly, despite the constant threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, to build Five Star’s project.”

Despite the ongoing lien issue, construction is continuing on The Palmeraie.

At least one contractor with outstanding liens — Midstate Mechanical — could be seen working on the site in recent weeks.

According to liens filed with the re-

corder’s office, Five Star owes Midstate more than $3.5 million for work performed on the project.

Midstate Mechanical did not respond to a request for comment.

The first lien filings came as the developer was already engaged in a legal battle with the town of Paradise Valley.

According to a lawsuit filed by Five Star Development in Maricopa County Superior Court in June 2020, the developer alleged the town was purposefully withholding permits and certificates of occupation in order to coerce the company into providing around $2 million in underwater storm water drainage infrastructure that the company said is not included in a development agreement the parties signed in 2016.

Certificates of occupancy have significant financial ramifications, as Five Star paid the town $3 million for building permits for one area of the property but could recoup $2 million of that if it receives certificates for specific buildings within five years.

At the time, Ayoub, Five Star’s president, said, “This is a shakedown, pure and simple.”

The town denied the allegations, arguing it was only attempting to enforce infrastructure obligations assigned to the company in

12 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

the agreement.

“It’s unfortunate that during this uncertain time, rather than work proactively to find solutions, Five Star has chosen to file a lawsuit against the very community its project would call home,” says Paradise Valley Town Manager Jill Keimach in a statement.

The town further alleged Five Star was using the lawsuit as leverage to push through rezoning requests in the future — an accusation Five Star denied.

That lawsuit is ongoing.

Despite the lawsuit and lien issues, Five Star says the project is on track.

In a press release issued in June 2020, Five Star indicated the first phase of the project, The Ritz-Carlton hotel, would be completed by the end of last year, and the second phase — including the retail, dining and office space — would be complete by the end of 2020.

The developer did not meet that initial deadline, but Humphreys, Five Star’s CFO, said the first phase is nearing completion.

“This is a $2 billion development that is nearing completion on the first phase and will be among the most impressive luxury master-planned developments in all of Paradise Valley and in the country,” he says. 

AROUND theAirpark Make-A-Wish Arizona hybrid Wish Ball

T

he hybrid 2021 Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Ball presented by Phusion Projects raised more than $3.1 million. The funds will help grant the more than 548 wishes Make-A-Wish Arizona is planning with Arizona wish kids and families. This event was the organization’s first hybrid event, with approximately 270 attendees in a 1,000-person room at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa and other supporters watching virtually from home. (Photos courtesy of Make-A-Wish Arizona) 

Jeff and Jenny Wright of Phusion Projects, which was the presenting sponsor for the 2021 Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Ball. This is the fourth year they have sponsored the event.

The 2021 Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Ball presented by Phusion Projects had four co-chairs — Jill Krigsten Riley, Mari Lederman, Jennifer Moser and Renee Parsons.

Janet Cussler, widow of author Clive Cussler, attended the event and was photographed with Joe Riley and Rodney and Jill Krigsten Riley.

Dave and Dennett Jones, Mark and Lisa Lorenzen, and Rick and Judy Cox attended the 2021 Wish Ball. Dave and Dennett Jones donated a Disney Raffle package that raised $36,000 toward future Arizona wishes.

Wish kid Robbie Matthews opened the 2021 Make-A-Wish Arizona Wish Ball presented by Phusion Projects with his story. In 2005, he had non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and was granted a wish for flying lessons. He is now a pilot.

Craig and Carolyn Jackson of BarrettJackson attend the 2021 Wish Ball and gifted the event with a VIP Experience Package that was the largest live auction fundraiser for the event.

Bob and Renee Parsons of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation made a surprise virtual donation of $2 million toward future Arizona wishes to end the evening.

14 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

Make-A-Wish Arizona board member Oliver Badgio, of Prime Steak Concepts, pictured with Alice Rodd O’Rourke from Make-A-Wish America and fellow board member Rudy Sleiman and his wife Sandra. Prime Steak Concepts donated a reservation for two for a year for the live auction.

Make-A-Wish Arizona board member Catherine Anaya and her guests enjoyed the four wish kid stories of inspiration and hope.

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MEET YourAirparkNeighbor Brent Menke is a local son and now-owner of The Mick Brasserie in Scottsdale. (Photo courtesy of The Mick)

A Global Adventure

Food is Brent Menke’s dream come true

B

By Alison Bailin Batz rent Menke is the cofounder and executive chef of The Mick, a modern French brasserie featuring small plates inspired from regions once part of the French colonial empire. But back in the early late 1980s, he was just another Firebird.

“I grew up in Paradise Valley and graduated from Chaparral High School, home of the Firebirds, in 1988,” says Menke, who lived for fishing in Mexico as a teen.

After high school, Menke stayed in Arizona, studying at the UA, where he graduated with a degree in marketing in 1992.

“After college, the thought of a

desk job made me a little queasy.

But you know what didn’t? The idea of living on a boat,” Menke says.

And while most people dream about life on the open seas, Menke applied to work on a motor yacht, much like one you might see on Bravo’s Below Deck. Among his primary routes was from the Caribbean to the French Riviera.

“I started at the literally bottom, as in scrubbing the bottom of the boat,” Menke says. “Over time, however, I worked my way up the chain …continues on page 18

16 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

Spring has sprung at Brent Menke’s The Mick throughout the menu. (Photo courtesy of The Mick)

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MEET YourAirparkNeighbor

Just one of the many mouthwatering options on Brent Menke’s always-evolving menu. (Photo courtesy of The Mick)

…continued from page 16 of command, eventually earning my way to the boson role on a private yacht.”

To put into layman's terms, the boson more or less serves as the manager of all deck operations and personnel and is the eyes and ears of the captain. This includes overseeing the maintenance of the exterior of the yacht, all deckhands and conflict resolution among team members, water toys, supplies and even small tenders attached to the yacht.

“When I tell folks of my adventures on the water, they often ask how I ended up a chef and not a boat captain,” Menke says.

“I actually got my start in cooking while on board a ship.”

Menke, who always enjoyed cooking, made his way into the kitchen — or galley — of a yacht in the late 1990s. The chef on board was due a vacation, and the captain needed volunteers to cook for the crew while he was away. Menke stepped up.

“That fateful volunteer job helping in the kitchen changed the course of my entire life,” Menke says. “After just a few days in the

kitchen, I never wanted to leave.”

Soon, Menke moved from the deck to the kitchen, first as a sous chef.

“In 1999, I decided to make the official job change and was accepted to the Culinary Institute of America,” Menke says. “The journey from there was as wild as the flavors I liked to combine, including connecting with the then-owner of Yankee Candle and becoming his head chef.”

After serving as the head chef for several of the owner’s entities, homes and even his private jet, the two became great friends and decided to go into business together.

In 2010, the duo opened The Farm Table at Kringle Candle in Massachusetts, an immediate success.

“By 2015, I was a husband and father to a 10- and 12-year-old, and I wanted them to experience a little of the adventure I had, but at a younger age,” Menke says. “So, our family packed up and spent a full calendar year exploring the world.”

The family traversed through France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Australia, Fiji, Dubai, Ecuador and Peru,

18 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

just to name a few stops. During this time, Menke served as a consultant to concepts around the world. Family brought Menke and his clan back to his native Scottsdale in 2016.

“My father, who still lived here, had fallen ill,” Menke says. “I wanted to be the one to care for him, so we packed up and planted our roots here five years ago.”

While caring for his father, Menke enjoyed reconnecting and catching up with old friends, including John Krause. Krause immediately began bending Menke’s ear about starting a restaurant together in their hometown.

“By 2019, when a space near McCormick Ranch opened up, he had my interest piqued,” Menke says. “But on the condition we bring something new to Scottsdale.”

The “something new” eventually became The Mick. Opened in 2020, the modern take on the French brasserie concept is inspired by regions once under the French Colonial Empire.

“For us, it means regions that were under French rule anytime from the 1600s to present. Think Creole New Orleans, Africa, India and Southeast Asia as well as France itself,” Menke says.

The restaurant is an homage to his early days working on a boat in the French Riviera and his wife, who is French.

The dishes often have just a touch of Southwest spice in them as well. As an example, Menke’s pork belly bahn mi slider has Southeast Asian char sui glazed pork belly and kimchi slaw but is served on French brioche. And the topping? Sriracha mayo.

“We also have some straight modern interpretations of classic French dishes, like our gratin dauphinoise, by way of example,” Menke says.

“This is a French dish made using sliced potatoes baked in milk or cream, using the gratin technique that was first invented in the Dauphiné region in southeastern France.”

According to Menke, sharing the flavors from his travels around the world and on the high seas is made even more special because he is able to do it in his hometown.

“To see my kids grow up where I did, while still providing them and the community at large a global adventure through my food, is a dream come true,” Menke says.  The Mick Brasserie 9719 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale 480-210-5500, themickaz.com

NONPROFITS

Survivors and their descendants are the eyewitness testimony to the atrocities of the Holocaust. (Photo by Charles Abrams)

A memorial candle-lighting ceremony as part of the annual Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance event. (Photo by Charles Abrams)

PHOENIX

I

Holocaust A S S O C I AT I O N

dignity by inspiring people to t can be hard to imagine speak out and take action against what it must be like to be hate, bigotry, intolerance and a survivor of the Holodiscrimination. caust. A dark time in U.S.

By Abbie S. Fink PHA board president Sheryl history, 6 million Jews Bronkesh has been involved were murdered during with the nonprofit organization the Holocaust, which ness of the Holocaust, provides education of for nearly 20 years. Bronkesh’s took place between 1933 and 1945.

Historians estimate that there were 1.5 million this and other genocides, and contributes to parents were Holocaust survivors, having tikkun olam, repair of the world. As a unique, met in a displaced persons’ camp following children among the 6 million who perished.

But for the Phoenix Holocaust Association regional resource for Holocaust education the war.

“My parents moved to Arizona in 1991 and (PHA), which is located in Scottsdale, the and remembrance, PHA promotes human started going to Café Europa, one of Holocaust is more than just a the PHA programs for survivors,” part of history; it is a part of their Bronkesh says. “After my dad died, personal history. my mom continued to go, and I Started in the Valley more would occasionally join her. The than 36 years ago, the Phoenix leadership at the time knew it was Holocaust Survivors Association, important to get the descendants as it was known then, was a place of survivors involved to keep the for Holocaust survivors to connect organization going.” with others with similar experiAnd involved she became, retirences. At its core then, as it is now, ing after a 45-year career in market is recognizing the importance of research, to dedicate herself to the talking about the Holocaust. And organization. who better to share the stories than Over the years, PHA has exthose that were there? panded its focus to include not only As a partnership of Holocaust survivors and their descendants survivors, their descendants and but the grandchildren of survivors the larger community, the Phoenix Sheryl Bronkesh, right, and her sister, Annette Jaffe of San as well.

Holocaust Association honors the Jose, California, celebrate their mother Bronia Bronkesh’s 93rd memory and legacy of the survibirthday. (Photo courtesy of Sheryl Bronkesh) vors and victims, promotes aware…continues on page 21

We must keep talking about it

APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

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NONPROFITS …continued from page 19 PHA is a communitywide Ho“It is critically important to have an locaust Remembrance Day. Yom organization like PHA that, at its core, HaShoah is recognized each year is for and about Holocaust survivors in April or May, coinciding with the and their descendants,” says Janice 27th Day of Nisan (on the Hebrew Friebaum, vice president of the board calendar) marking the beginning of directors and a lifelong Holocaust of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of researcher. “We are the singular local 1943, when Jewish resistance fightresource for eyewitness testimony of ers defied the Nazis and fought for what occurred and for the testimony freedom and dignity. of eyewitnesses to the eyewitnesses.”

This year’s commemoration Friebaum’s father was a survivor, event will be held virtually at 1 p.m. having lived through imprisonment at Sunday, April 11. five concentration camps, two ghettos “For the safety of our survivor and three death marches. community and our supporters, “The Holocaust was always the we are doing this event virtually,” ‘elephant in the room’ growing up,” says Eva Flaster, co-chair of this Friebaum says. “My dad didn’t want year’s event. “But we are working to talk about it, but it shaped so much diligently to create the same sense of my childhood.” of connectedness as if it were in With a graduate degree in Hoperson.” locaust Studies from University of Holocaust by Bullets is a program of Yahad-In-Unum, a This virtual event will feature Chicago, Friebaum had a mission nongovernmental organization based in Paris and founded remarks from Holocaust survivors, to learn as much as she could about

by Father Patrick Desbois. The exhibit is scheduled to be in music and a memorial candlethe Holocaust. She has taken trips to Phoenix in April 2022. (Photo by Claudia Johnstone) lighting ceremony. Hernandez Poland and Germany conducting her will present the keynote address, own research and learning about her and additional participants will dad’s background and is working on a include Rabbi Jeremy Schneider of memoir. She spends considerable time Temple Kol Ami, Cantor Dannah in the community, giving Holocaust Rubinstein of Congregation Or education presentations to schools and Tzion, and Shevet Shemesh Israeli other organizations around the Valley.

Scouts.

And thanks to the efforts of many In addition, the event will honor of PHA’s volunteers, Holocaust educa54 Arizona survivors with PHA’s tion will soon be mandatory in public annual Shofar Zachor award. These schools. survivors are a testament to resilIn October 2020, the Arizona Board ience and gives the world hope. of Education decided to require stuThe event is free, but an RSVP dents to receive instruction on the is required.

Holocaust at least twice during their Flaster’s parents were survivors; secondary school career. she was born in a displaced persons “That was a good first step,” camp in Germany, coming to the Bronkesh says. “But we wanted someUnited States at just 18 months old. thing more. A codified Holocaust “I revered my parents, knowing education law would clarify misconcepthat they came through such a tions that today’s students may have horrific time yet were able to love about World War II, such as how it people, connect with people,” she started, who the perpetrators were and said. “It is amazing that a person how many people were killed.” can be treated so inhumanely yet In January, Rep. Alma Hernandez, Holocaust by Bullets is an international education still be open and kind to others.”

D-Tucson, introduced a bill that would program that documents the murders of more than 2 With a focus on education and require Arizona schools to teach stumillion Jews. The exhibit is scheduled to be in Phoenix in ensuring generations to come redents about the Holocaust at least twice April 2022. (Photo by Claudia Johnstone) member the Holocaust and the from the seventh to the 12th grade. lessons to be learned about hatred students see bigotry and hatred, they will The bill was approved 59-0 and now is understand what those ramifications could and indifference, prejudice and intolerance, working its way through the Senate. the Phoenix Holocaust Association is steadfast “We are thrilled that Rep. Hernandez has mean down the road.”

Included in this education bill will be the in its goal to ensure that sometime, in hopeworked with us on this critically important piece of legislation,” Bronkesh says. “The requirement to discuss other genocides in fully the near future, the rallying cry of “never again” will be true. ultimate goal is for students to become addition to the Holocaust.

For more information, visit phxha.com.  Among the many programs hosted by upstanders, not bystanders, so that when APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

21

No vem ber 1 9 th , 2 0 2 1

Awards Lunch & Cocktails with friends Don’t miss this celebration of achievement, perseverance and community service.

For Sponsorship Opportunities or more information please contact Cheri Valentino

cvalentino@scottsdalechamber.com (480)355-2708 a signature event of

Please join us for a celebration As one of our most time honored events, the Sterling Awards embody the spirit of our organization by celebrating the people and companies that have demonstrated excellence, innovation and community stewardship, making Scottsdale one of the best cities to live in our Nation. Over the years we have honored our city’s outstanding corporate neighbors and brightest rising stars.

A p p l i c a t i o n s w i l l o p e n A p r i l 1sstt the categories are: Big Business

Small Business

Recognizes significant contributions to q u a l i t y o f l i f e a n d t h e e c o n o m i c f a b r i c of the community.

Recognizes a company that demonstrates success through product or service innovation and professionalism, and has made contributions to community-orientated projects.

Micro Business

Non-Profit Organization

Recognizes an entrepreneur ship or emerging business exhibiting success through innovation, creativity and collaboration.

R e c o g n i z e s t h e s o c i a l , c u l t u ra l , e d ucational and economic impact of an organization on its constituents and/or the broader community.

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BUSINESS

This month the Airpark News is debuting a new series, Business Leaders of the Airpark. Each month, we’ll feature the leaders of Airpark who are making a difference in their organizations and our community. In this issue, to kick things off you’ll meet visionaries from Airpark companies Troon, Ferguson, Stone Creek, Foley & Giolitto, Avery Lane and Toy Barn. We’re excited to hear from our readers on who you think fits the category, and then be on the lookout for them in a future issue. Send suggestions to christina@timespublications.com.

APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

23

BUSINESS

Giving Back Despite pandemic, Troon continues its charitable ways

By Kristine Cannon

hen the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered businesses, like bars and event venues, and pushed people to pursue more socially distanced outdoor activities, none benefited more than golf courses — including Troon’s two Scottsdale courses, Troon North Golf Club and Troon Country Club.

But Scottsdale-based Troon Golf did more than reap the benefits of increased rounds of golf amid the pandemic. It ramped up

fundraising efforts, too, giving back nearly thousands of dollars to the community.

This only grazes the surface of what made Troon a leader of the Airpark, especially following a year as challenging and as unprecedented as 2020.

“It certainly was challenging for everyone, especially those that have lost loved ones or friends, or are still unemployed or underemployed because of economic pressures that the pandemics caused,” says Kris Strauss, Troon senior vice president of sales and marketing.

24 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

“We took a punch, but we took a softer punch than most industries, and we were able to be a little more resilient through it.”

After a slow March and April in 2020, Troon’s courses experienced a gradual increase in golfers through May; and by June, “it was crazy,” Strauss says.

“Everybody took to golf right away,” he adds. “We had all ages, from young to old, male and female.”

According to golf research and analytics firm Sagacity Golf Technologies, Valley golf courses saw rounds played jump 11.6%

Amid the pandemic, Troon has not only seen an increase in new golfers, but it has also expanded off the course, creating new partnerships and acquiring new courses across the country.

(Photo courtesy of Troon)

from 2019.

Troon’s courses experienced what Strauss calls a “golf boom.”

“So much so — nationally, even — golf interest has risen. Last year, rounds were up 15% over the prior year, and there aren’t not too many industries that can say that their volume grew at that level in a pandemic year,” he says.

While Troon grew its customer base on the course, they were expanding off the course, too.

In January of this year, Troon Golf ac-

quired Virginia-based Indigo Golf Partners, one of the largest golf course management companies in the United States.

The acquisition added more than 160 golf courses, country clubs and resorts in 29 states to Troon’s already robust portfolio of nearly 600 facilities.

As part of the acquisition, Indigo Golf Partners office in Reston, Virginia, to continue and support managed clubs throughout Troon’s full family of brands, including Troon Golf, Troon Privé, Honours Golf and OB Sports.

In February, Troon continued to expand, opening a corporate office in Chicago, adding to its already-stablished offices in Reston, Virginia; Newton, Massachusetts; Chicago; Irvine, California; Palm Beach Gardens, Florida; Jacksonville, Florida; Birmingham, Alabama; Seattle; New Braunfels, Texas; and Dubai.

“Our organic growth is really fueled on focusing on our client’s goals and trying to align our goals with that of our clients,” Strauss says. “That’s to create a great resort golf experience.”

Further, in March, Troon announced its partnership with Manifest, an exclusive, chapter-based lifestyle and travel club that provides custom-crafted getaways to unique destinations within the United States, paired with private air service.

According to Dan Cohn, vice president of corporate strategy for Manifest, the new partnership will not only provide preeminent golf experiences and access for its members, but it will also increase Troon member benefits by providing private air travel as well as access to Manifest-curated adventures across the United States.

But the pandemic wasn’t without its challenges.

The lack of tourism in the Scottsdale area, specifically tourists who visit to play golf, impacted courses such as Troon’s.

“While rounds were up, not every golf course owner was saying that they’ve really increased revenue over the prior year,” Strauss says, noting the absence of one particularly important group of annual visitors.

“We haven’t seen the Canadians — for obvious reasons with the border shut down — and those are big drivers of our economy.”

Troon is also awaiting the return of weddings, golf tournaments and large gatherings, which are big revenue drivers for the company.

“Those are the challenges that are ahead of us,” Strauss says. “If you’re a resort property that relies on tourism or has a big piece of wedding business, that business is still on pause. It will come back, but it’s on pause at the moment.”

Kris Strauss is Troon’s senior vice president of sales and marketing.

(Photo courtesy of Troon)

In the meantime, Troon will continue to cater to its golfers — both experienced and novice — while also giving back to its community in several ways.

To start, Troon’s annual Drive for Phoenix Children’s Hospital, which took place from September 24 through December 15, raised more than $93,000, adding to the more than $705,000 the drive has raised over the past 10 years.

Additionally, Troon gave a portion of the proceeds of its Arizona Summer Troon Cards to St. Mary’s Food Bank, as well as donated a portion of all proceeds of its Patriot Troon Card to Folds of Honor and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Troon also launched the Inspire Troon Card, which benefits health care professionals and teachers, with proceeds donated to Direct Relief and Donors Choose.

“We also did some charitable work just for our group of associates,” Strauss adds.

In 2020, Troon launched Troon Cares, which donates dollars to associates impacted by COVID-19.

“It was designed to help out our own, our family,” Strauss says.

Looking ahead, Troon will not only continue to nourish and care for its own family; it will also continue to focus on retention of clients — including new players taking up golf for the first time.

“We believe that all these people who have taken to this sport during the pandemic — or a good portion of them — might not be 100%, but even if 25% of them stick in the game, that’s going to be tremendous for our respective industry,” Strauss says.  For more information about Troon, visit troon.com.

APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

25

BUSINESS

Demonstrating

Commitment

Ferguson leads by taking care of its own

By Bridgette M. Redman

hen it comes to leadership, Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery of Scottsdale knows what it takes to stand out — a genuine concern for its associates and its customers.

While it has practiced this in showrooms around the country for years, 2020 gave Ferguson an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to doing the right thing. When the lockdown hit Scottsdale, it immediately

closed and, within days, set up work-athome stations. The company also tried to keep as many employees as possible, says Michelle Lee, showroom manager.

“It really meant a lot for us to try to keep going,” Lee says. “We felt it was a matter of our associates’ safety to stay closed during that portion of time and to work from home, which is difficult when you’re in a showroom world.”

When it came time to reopen, she says a lot of money was spent trying to make the showroom safe for associates, whether it was screen guards or whatever else was necessary.

Reaching out on a digital platform

Michelle Lee is the showroom manager at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery in the Airpark.

(Photo by Pablo Robles)

Ferguson recognizes that many of its customers do not yet feel safe in returning.

It has worked hard to make sure that their concerns are met and that they can be serviced remotely. Ferguson has created what it calls its Omni Channel experience, an online platform that provides a virtual showroom.

Lee says that was in the works when the pandemic hit, but the company sped things up and was able to launch it within weeks.

“We didn’t want to start laying off people, so we did everything we could to create an online platform,” Lee says. “(Customers) could see a showroom and walk through it with a consultant. We interact with the customers on a level of how they want to interact with us.”

Customers now have three options — in-person consultations; visits to the virtual showroom with online appointments; or logging onto build.com, which lets customers get ideas, build their own project online and interact with staff with the project that they built virtually.

“We live in a digital world, and Ferguson understands the importance of needing to

26 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

offer both,” Lee says.

“Therefore, if a customer prefers to touch and feel the product and have a face-to-face interaction, we welcome that, along with customers who prefer to conduct business virtually. We can do both.”

She says there were a couple of months where things were uncertain. Now the market has picked up and Ferguson is once again busy.

“I’m super proud of our associates in terms of how they were able to pivot from not working face to face and pretty much learn a new way of business within days,” Lee said.

Customers can access the showroom in three ways: in-person consultations, visit to the virtual showroom, or log onto build.com and create their own projects and interact with staff.

(Photo by Pablo Robles)

Ferguson offers a slew "super premium products" in plumbing, small and large appliances, and lighting.

(Photo by Pablo Robles)

Ferguson makes people’s dreams come true

Ferguson is one of the largest distributors in its industry, and Lee says it reached that point by cultivating a family who care for each other, their work, their performance and their customers.

They pride themselves on being in the business of making people’s dreams come true.

“We always start with getting a good idea of customers’ design aesthetics, understanding customers’ desire of form and function and, of course, understanding the customer’s

budget and combining all that together,” Lee says.

She says Ferguson benefits from having distribution centers across the country, which allows it to get products faster than its competitors. While Ferguson is known for its plumbing, it also sells appliances and lighting. The consultants are knowledgeable in all three categories.

“We offer entry to super premium products in all categories,” Lee says. “When a customer thinks plumbing/appliance/ lighting, whether small or large project, I want them to think of Ferguson.”

Caring nature

They make sure they invest in their associates, so they can best serve their customers.

They try to make sure that their design community has the latest information and technology by offering continuing education courses. Ferguson also offers vendor training weekly.

“We at Ferguson truly value feedback and training our associates to be the best that they can be,” Lee says. “We understand the importance of having knowledgeable associates. We value personal development and leadership, and we offer a variety of self-paced, self-development tools to our associates.”

Lee adds that Ferguson cares about its customers and associates, but it takes

pride in making a difference nationwide.

It has a sustainability program called “Ferguson Cares” that builds partnerships with nonprofits around five areas: hunger, housing, disaster relief, clean water and skilled trade.

Locally, it has volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House (pre-COVID-19), donated time and material to Habitat for Humanity, and took part in local charitable events. Most recently, Ferguson sponsored a Facings of America event that supports dog and cat adoptions through the Arizona Animal Welfare League.

A 15-year Ferguson employee, Lee says most of the associates have a long history with the company, making them experts on meeting the needs of their customers.

“Our mission is to provide expert advice to our customers so that we are looked at as a trusted partner along with delivering the best customer service in the industry,” Lee says.  Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery 8340 E. Raintree Drive, Building A1, Scottsdale 480-556-0103, fergusonshowrooms.com Showroom open by appointment only

APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

27

BUSINESS

Time-Honored

CRAFTSMANSHIP Stone Creek Furniture celebrates 30 years as a leader

T

By Kristine Cannon his year marks a milestone accomplishment for Stone Creek Furniture: It’s the company’s 30th anniversary.

And to celebrate, Stone Creek Furniture is skipping the big bash and instead will maintain that day-to-day grind it has mastered over the past three decades — the same grind that’s helped it not only survive the pandemic but also thrive throughout it.

For Stone Creek Furniture, the pandemic spurred an increase in sales for two products: entertainment centers and

home offices.

“When people were coming to realize that this work-from-home was not a temporary situation, the need to invest in a nicer work environment in the home — and also ways to entertain the family at home — came forefront. Like, how do we make the best of this?” says Stone Creek Furniture President and Founder Ron Jones.

Stone Creek Furniture is a leader in the home furnishings industry for building quality home theater, home office, bedroom and dining room furniture, as well as custom kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities.

Ron Jones is the president and founder of Stone Creek Furniture, which has a showroom in the Airpark. (Photo courtesy of Stone Creek Furniture)

28 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

Its first order was for 80 chairs, and since, Stone Creek has been committed to providing excellence through “time-honored craftsmanship.”

What also sets Stone Creek apart is it manufactures locally at its 44,000-square-foot factory in Chandler. Its other showroom is located in North Scottsdale, just north of Scottsdale Quarter.

“We’re not like other furniture stores,” Jones says. “They’re not manufacturing; they’re buying from many factories around the world to provide the commodities that are in demand.”

This allows them to provide quality products at an accessible and affordable price — marketing their beautifully crafted furniture directly to the public at a wholesale price.

“We sell factory direct. So, that nomiddleman concept is still alive and well here at Stone Creek,” Jones says.

In fact, Stone Creek Furniture is the largest furniture manufacturer in the state.

Here, it produces furniture and cabinetry using only the best selection of quality hardwoods, and it offers an extensive selection of 35 fine finish colors, among other features.

But Stone Creek’s niche, Jones says, is in customizing cabinetry.

And in the midst of the pandemic, it saw strong sales during the second and third quarters of last year for media walls and entertainment centers as well as home offices.

“Scottsdale has always been a vibrant customer base for us,” Jones says. “(And

the Chandler factory) was well-equipped to handle more volume than we had been doing.”

Stone Creek did, however, face its fair share of challenges keeping up with demand, one being interruptions in supply.

“Some of the supplies that we would have in hardware are made in China. So, there were some interruptions in supply in that. We had to pay more, but we could still manage to get it. The raw materials have been going up in price, too,” Jones says.

Jones adds that countertops also increased in price.

“There was also an exodus of the countertops that were being made in China.

That became a little bit of a problem, as those manufacturers tried to move their sourcing to other countries, and they got that done pretty rapidly, but there was quite a bit of price increase in the countertops,” Jones says.

Despite the minor setbacks, Stone Creek

Furniture managed to not only keep up with demand but also retain its staff amid the pandemic.

“We never laid off any employees,” Jones says proudly, adding that many employees have been with Stone Creek for more than seven years.

Looking ahead, Jones expects working from home will “become very permanent” and that the home office market will “stay strong.”

“And I think the media wall entertainment center for the home is also going to stay strong,” he adds.

Jones isn’t wrong.

According to a December 2020 report

by Research and Markets, the global home office furniture market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of around 7.5% through 2026.

Jones says his goal for 2021 is to become the largest selection and largest manufac-

Stone Creek Furniture saw strong sales during Q2 and Q3 last year for two products in particular: entertainment centers and home offices. And this year, its goal is to become the largest selection and largest manufacturer of home office and media walls in Arizona.

(Photo courtesy of Stone Creek Furniture)

turer of home office and media walls in Arizona.

“We’re putting a lot of focus again on those two commodities,” he says.

“We’re extremely proud of the work we do here at Stone Creek. We are not just selling cookie-cutter furniture made in China; we are collaborating with each customer and design that one-of-a-kind piece of furniture or cabinetry for their home.” Stone Creek Furniture 15505 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 170, Scottsdale 480-451-3100, stonecreekfurniture.com

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29

BUSINESS

Ryan Giolitto spent 12 years entrenched in complex, technical tax cases, including servicing high-net-worth individuals. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

30 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

Planning for FINANCIAL SUCCESS

F

Foley & Giolitto CPA offers tax preparation and planning strategies that save clients money

or almost 20 years, Foley & Giolitto CPA has created successful financial strategies for professionals in the Airpark. Working with business owners and real estate investors, the firm specializes in tax strategy and planning to help reduce taxes for clients.

“We offer a comprehensive custom tax plan so we can look at a client’s entire tax situation in advance and help identify strategies to reduce their taxes,” says partner Ryan Giolitto. “Then we help them implement those strategies and create an optimized tax plan so that when they file their taxes, there are no surprises. We do everything in order to create the best tax situation they’ve ever had.”

In addition to tax returns and preparation, financial planning and consulting on alternative investments, Foley & Giolitto CPA dedicates a lot of time to educating clients on personal finance taxes.

“One thing that really sets us apart is that we spend more time with our customers than others in the industry do,” Giolitto says.

“Financial education is important because a lot of people aren’t financially educated.

We spend a lot of time and effort optimizing each client’s situation. There are a lot of firms out there that do tax returns and their goal is basically to get customers out the door as quickly as possible. We do the exact opposite.

We input the numbers, review them, then we think about all the different ways that we can reach the optimal situation. We do every trick in the book to help reduce clients’ taxes.”

Giolitto, who was raised in a family of CPAs and accountants, graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s College of Business, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting and a Master of Science in taxation.

Prior to joining forces with certified public

By Kamala Kirk accountant Charles Foley in 2016, Giolitto worked for several firms over the years as a tax supervisor, manager of tax and financial advisory services, and manager of U.S. tax and financial consulting services.

Now, as partner at Foley & Giolitto CPA, Giolitto oversees the firm’s team of CPAs and financial experts. His goal has been to build a company that offers a great work-life balance for employees.

“I was very fortunate to get some of the best experience possible by working for different companies,” Giolitto says. “Traditionally, CPA firms don’t have a very good work-life balance. It was always a mission of mine to create what didn’t exist: a company where our employees could have a normal work life and not get burn out. At Foley & Giolitto CPA, we’ve created a great place for accountants to work while on the flip side.

Clients appreciate what we do for them.”

Giolitto moved to Arizona in 2016 after becoming partner at the firm. In addition to the weather and the people, he really enjoys the sense of community in the Airpark.

“The Airpark to me is small business at its best,” Giolitto says. “It’s a really tightknit community of local businesses, and these are the kind of people that we want to help.

One of our missions is to help local business, move the local area forward and shop local.

Whenever we’re asked for recommendations, we always refer local providers. We like to support the community that we’re in.”

Prior to COVID-19, Foley & Giolitto CPA had been working with many clients electronically, which allowed the firm to continue to provide services for those who couldn’t come to the its offices during the pandemic.

“We already had two very different ways of working with us depending on each client’s style,” Giolitto says. “Not everyone wants to be in front of a computer; some prefer to come in and see us, while those that

live far away or are out of town like having a remote option. Whether it’s in person or remote, we wanted to make sure that we took care of all our customers.”

When tax season rolls around, Giolitto says many people become stressed because their finances aren’t organized.

“The best way to relieve that stress is to be better organized financially and to plan ahead,” Giolitto says. “The things we really help people with are good accounting and good financial organization so that they know everything when it comes to their personal financial situation and how it operates. Then when they go into tax season the next year, we’ve eliminated the stress by helping them plan and prepare so they know exactly what’s going to happen. My biggest tip for people is to work with someone that is going to educate you, help you get organized and plan ahead, because that’s the key to reducing financial stress.”

Giolitto’s favorite part of working in the industry is significantly impacting clients’ financial situations, helping them save thousands to millions of dollars.

“It’s an incredible feeling to be able to work with someone who doesn’t have a financial background or education, and after just a few years of working with us, they’re able to have a very successful personal financial situation,” Giolitto shares.

“Over the years, we’ve saved some individuals some pretty big amounts, which is quite impactful. We work hard for our clients because we want to improve their situations and we’re really thankful for their appreciation for what we do for them as well.”  Foley & Giolitto CPA PLLC 14300 N. Northsight Boulevard, Suite 114, Scottsdale 480-998-4100, foleygiolittocpa.com

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31

WEATHERING

the

STORM he COVID-19 pandemic came at an unfortunate time for Avery Lane, a consignment store that specializes in items on the high end, from furniture, antiques and fine art to other home accessories.

After seeing steady growth and expansion over the first several years in the Airpark, owner Darlene Richert signed for yet another expansion in December 2019, pushing the showroom past 30,000 square feet.

But almost as soon as construction finished and Avery Lane reopened in mid-March 2020, its doors closed again.

“We opened up March 14 after me having five 80-hour work weeks in a row … and then we closed again on the 17th,” Richert recalls.

“So, it was an absolute shell shock, because I had just signed a big, major lease and got all the construction and all the work — so a little scary.”

One might expect a small business like Avery Lane to see a decline; instead, Richert notes a 10% increase in business from 2019 to 2020, beating her projections and marking a record year of growth. She expects this year to be even better. “(I’m) really happy with how we were able to weather through that storm,” she says.

Richert says she kept busy while the shop’s doors were closed, fulfilling prior commitments to clients who were selling homes and moving — while also avoiding furloughing employees.

For a while she began to operate by appointment only, and she admits she was “one of the people who crossed the line” by reopening early despite the governor issuing a stay-at-home order last spring.

“But at 30,000 square feet, I felt people could social distance and everything as easily in my showroom as they could at Home Depot or Costco or Target or their grocery store,” she explains.

Like its expansions in the literal sense, selling art has been figuratively transfor-

mative for Avery Lane in recent years.

Throughout the first handful, Richert found herself receiving frequent calls from clients asking her to take their collections. But after repeatedly turning down such offers, she reconsidered.

“Finally, I thought, ‘Wait a second, clearly there’s a need for this,’” she explains. “And so I started taking these beautiful, magnificent, original art.”

When Richert opened the shop in 2012 at roughly a third of its current size, she says the already established stores in the Valley targeted the low to mid market — and she didn’t want to be just one more competitor, which is why she aims to curate an upscale inventory, one which rotates regularly.

“Because my connections were all on the high end, I wanted to do things that would be very luxurious, that would go into these second homes up in the golf communities north of us — in the Desert Highlands, the Desert Mountain, Troon, Silverleaf, DC Ranch,” she explains, noting a background in sales and marketing in golf development.

“And so I wanted to attract that buyer and showcase very beautiful furniture, because there really was nowhere for them to go.”

As such, her goal is for Avery Lane to be “exquisite,” with furniture of all different colors and textures that come from recognizable, esteemed names such as Theodore Alexander and Maitland-Smith. Clients have included anyone from CEOs to golf and baseball athletes.

There’s even a separate boutique inside called Pagoda Lane, which Richert says has also expanded, now encompassing roughly 2,200 square feet. Its owners’ specialties range from home decor to accessories like handbags and jewelry.

“What I’m trying to do at Avery Lane is really create a showroom that really kind of fills all your senses,” Richert describes. “You look at amazing chandeliers, they’re one of a kind, you haven’t seen them anywhere else; you look at sofas, all different colors;

32 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

BUSINESS

Avery Lane sees growth despite pandemic, hopeful for future

By Connor Dziawura we put beautiful florals on the coffee tables; and on the dining room tables we have china and crystal. So, it’s like walking through kind of like a madman’s mansion, because everybody’s obviously a little different, but every room is beautiful in and of itself.”

She hopes to create an experience and a “party atmosphere” — achieved, she says, by playing music in the showrooms, serving champagne, and having quality salespeople.

“We’re really trying to create something different than just a place to buy furniture,” Richert explains.

That’s all the more apparent when Avery Lane holds fundraisers, concerts and other events in-store, something the pandemic has put on pause. Nevertheless, Richert is hopeful things are turning around.

“Quite honestly, it’s been a really tough year for us, because that’s what we love doing,” she says. “We love having those events. We love having everybody come, and our clients love it and it’s kind of become part of their social calendar, is, ‘What is Avery Lane doing?’ And so we really hope to, once COVID lifts, bring that back in a big way. So, hopefully this fall we can bring that back.”

Because Richert emphasizes the importance to her of being a part of the community, Avery Lane sponsors the Scottsdale Philharmonic and supports organizations such as Rosie’s House, Arizona Helping Hands, K2 Adventures Foundation and Send Me On Vacation. And she says she encourages philanthropy to other Airpark businesses whom she knows.

“It is one of the core values for me as a person, and it’s one of the core values for our company, is giving back,” Richert says. “We love being extremely philanthropic for causes that we believe in.”  Avery Lane 15613 N. Greenway-Hayden Loop, Scottsdale 480-991-0700, averylanehome.com

Darlene Richert specializes in high-end items at her consignment store, Avery Lane, which has seen continued growth and expansion.

(Photos by Pablo Robles)

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BUSINESS

Driving into Lux Toy Barn puts high-end spin on garages

By Laura Latzko oy Barn Luxury Garage Ownership doesn’t just offer storage f o r cars, boats, RVs, racecars, motorcycles and off-road vehicles.

It’s a community for vehicle enthusiasts.

Units come with amenities such as prewired internet and TV access, plumbing, insulated walls and ceilings, RV outlets, electric garage doors, community

restrooms, and access to clubhouses.

The father-and-son team behind Toy Barn, Paul and Jason Wesley, has expanded its business since opening its first location in 2010 at Cave Creek and Peak View roads.

Originally from Ohio, the two were residential land subdividers before they became involved in the luxury garage business in 2008.

Jason says there were luxury garages in the East Valley when they started their business, but nothing in North Scottsdale.

“We were really trying to accommodate people who lived in the North Scottsdale communities who didn’t have any additional storage options. It’s real estate ownership, so it’s an investment versus just paying rent on

34 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

a storage facility,” Jason says.

“A lot of them that have been around 10 years. They have double-lot equity. They get the tax benefits that come with real estate ownership.”

Because businesses like this were few, they had to figure it out on their own.

“It’s extremely niche,” Jason says. “There was no roadmap for getting into the garage/ condominium business when we did.”

Their time in the luxury garage business has been a learning process. They have continued to adapt, especially with delays in new constructions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have learned quite a bit about the

Jason Wesley dove into the "extremely niche" luxury garage market with his father Paul in 2008. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

A second Scottsdale location with 75,600 square feet and 52 units is set to open in 2023 but is already accepting reservations. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

xury construction process, the challenges associated with it, how to manage those challenges, managing schedules and people’s expectations, what works and doesn’t work,” Jason says. “We try to incorporate the lessons learned from every community into the new one.”

The two men have their own “toys” that they enjoy in their spare time. Paul owns a collection of vintage Indian motorcycles, and Jason is an aviation enthusiast with a Cirrus plane.

Jason says he’s also interested in Porsches, and his father enjoys ’60s-era Corvettes.

One of the biggest perks of owning a luxury garage business is occasionally clients

allow the team to try out vehicles.

“It’s always nice when they say, ‘Just take the Porsche for the day,’” Jason says.

Jason and Paul have five locations, including their new one near the Chandler Municipal Airport at Gilbert and Germann roads.

The two are planning a location in Scottsdale at 73rd Street and Helm Drive, which is projected to open in 2023. They are taking reservations for it. This will be their second Scottsdale location, the first being Greenway Road and 78th Street that opened in 2019.

The first location has been sold out since the spring of 2020, and they wanted to offer additional options for those needing storage in Scottsdale. The first location in Scottsdale is 24,000 feet, with 18 units. The new location will be 75,600 square feet with 52 units.

“We think that the Scottsdale Airpark location is one of the premier locations in the Valley for what we do,” Jason says.

Owners will be able to purchase one or multiple units of 1,200 to 6,000 square feet of space.

“The other one was just too small,” Jason says. “We didn’t have anything to accommodate people who needed a larger space. This time around, we will be able to accommodate significant-sized garages.

“The first one was designed for cars only.

This new one will accommodate larger motorcoaches, larger boats, larger car collections.”

Jason expects that the new location will serve residents of Old Town, North Scottsdale, the Gainey and McCormick Ranch areas, and Paradise Valley. Jason and Paul are hoping to expand to Utah, Texas and Nevada.

Jason says there has been little turnover in units, and some owners have spaces in different facilities. Jason says the dry, warm climate and roads in Arizona are ideal for car collectors.

“They can enjoy their vehicles here. The roads aren’t like the roads in the Midwest, chucked with potholes everywhere,” Jason says.

Jason says building a garage can be expensive, and many communities have CC&R regulations prohibiting additions.

The Toy Barns offer a luxury garage experience for those who are downsizing or needing space for their vehicles, family heirlooms or automobilia such as neon signs or vintage gas pumps. They are gated, with 24-hour access.

Adjacent clubhouses come with amenities such as high-end finishes, plush seating, flat-screen TVs, full kitchens and bathrooms.

Jason says he and his father wanted to create not just storage facilities but close-knit communities.

“I think what separates us from a regular storage facility or an industrial park is the fact that we are trying to cultivate a community of like-minded individuals. The facility functions more like a private club than it does a warehouse,” Jason says.

Unit owners can customize the units with touches such as Epoxy flooring and half baths. They are expected to adhere to CC&R guidelines, such as not operating businesses out of their units. Many of the unit owners spend time at the facilities, working on their own vehicles or getting time to themselves.

“Some of the retired guys who don’t golf, that’s where they spend all their time. That’s what they do. They tinker in the garage,” Jason says.  The Toy Barn Luxury Garage Ownership 8585 E. Hartford Drive, Suite 114, Scottsdale 480-419-0101, toybarnstorage.com

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TURNING HEADS Karma charges into the Scottsdale Airpark

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

on Parske has become accustomed to people pointing and staring at him in the last month.

Parske is the general manager of Karma Scottsdale, the Airpark-based dealership with the exclusive rights to sell the luxury electric vehicle in Arizona.

“The one thing that’s drawn me to Karma is it’s the only vehicle I’ve ever driven that every single person who sees it turns their head,” Parske says.

“The lines are unbelievably elegant.

For that, it immediately turns heads.

Karma is a car manufacturer. Tesla is an electronics company. That’s why Tesla is in the mall. Karma has a great fit and finish. It’s on the same level as Bentley and Rolls-Royce.”

The sleek cars, which start at $144,000, feature an elegant exterior design, along with an interior made of sustainably sourced, high-quality materials that are completely customizable.

“When clients are purchasing a car, they can pick out colors and woods,” Parske says. “If you wanted to lay your whole vehicle in mother of pearl instead of normal wood, Karma will source the product. You can customize your vehicle.

“The cars are built in California, so there’s less wait time. It’s a max of four to six weeks, versus three to six months. We have our regular paint choices, but if you

want to paint it a certain color, they’ll do that as well. We’ll paint it whatever color you want if you’re willing to pay for it.”

Anyone driving under 50 miles a day will never need gas, and those driving more will get 300 miles per battery charge with the Revero and up to 360 miles with the Revero GT. “The one thing that stands out for me is the owners of electric cars have ‘range anxiety,’” he says. “If they’re taking it to California or up north, a lot of the time Tesla owners try to plan when they have to stop to charge. They worry about if a charging station is available and the wait time.”

Karma boasts a four-cylinder BMW engine that works as an alternator. It has an electric port and a gas tank.

“If you don’t have time to charge or sit in line, you just throw 10 gallons of gas in the vehicle and it works as an alternator and recharges the vehicle,” Parske says.

“It shoots the range up to 360 miles.

It’s not a hybrid. You can literally drive the car from California to the East Coast and never stop to charge the vehicles.

That’s the big thing compared to Tesla.

They get that range anxiety.”

Parske manned a Karma booth at last month’s Barrett-Jackson to get the word out there.

“Once people actually see the car and drive the vehicle, they’re blown away,” Parske says. “I try to drive on as my daily

36 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

drive. At stop signs and lights, people ask me to roll the window down and tell them what it is. The designers came from Ferrari and other high-end exotics.

“The way it drives, not everyone’s going to have one. Most consumers like that exclusivity.”

Parske partnered with Karma North America about a year ago. He obtained the new car license about a month ago,

Jon Parske says Karma’s base models are $144,000 and the cars are completely customizable.

(Photo courtesy of Karma)

and he delivered the first Karma in midMarch. In 2020, Karma added more than 16 new dealer partners globally.

“They were really looking for likeminded people to partner with,” Parske says. “We fit the bill. We had a client we’ve dealt with who had purchased a Karma out in California. They were hitting high-end independents like ourselves. With Karma, you’re not going

to park next to another at Whole Foods.

They only make a few thousand a year.”

Formerly with Penske, Parske is the general manager of Auto House, which has 600 cars in stock in Tempe, Peoria and Scottsdale.

“We’re on a mission to change the perception of buying vehicles,” he says.

“When I started with Penske in 2000, it was more about building relationships

and changing the perception of buying a vehicle.

“Clients stay with the same person throughout the whole process, instead of 10 people. We brought that into Karma, too. Whether someone’s buying a $10,000 car or a $150,000 car, we treat them the same. We want them to enjoy purchasing a vehicle and not feel like they’re hitting their head against the wall.” 

APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

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Mary Stringer and her husband, Steve Whaley, founders of Grand Canyon Decon, distribute information about their company to attendees of the Maricopa County Home and Landscape Show at State Farm Stadium in March. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Looking Beyond Tragedy Grand Canyon Decon cleans with care

C

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski leaning homes contaminated by suicides, hoarding, trauma or hazardous chemicals is an arduous task. As the owners of Grand Canyon Decon LLC, Mary Stringer and Steve Whaley do so with compassion for their clients.

“I have a psychology degree, so I look at the psychology of every situation — personal and professional,” Stringer says. “I analyze from every point of view. I understand what people are going through.

“Steve and I are very compassionate people — and we do care. We’re very simple people. We’re not extravagant. We’re business owners who want to help.”

The Airpark-based, family-owned Grand Canyon Decon LLC is certified and insured, the latter of which didn’t come easily. To be insured, the couple “searched high and low” and found an underwriter to take on Grand

Canyon Decon LLC at a high price, says Whaley, who has owned Sun Devil Pools for 32 years.

“Our business is so unique that they had to write it especially for us,” Stringer adds.

Stringer and Whaley are proud of its staff’s two-hour response time, a rarity in the business. The couple are the only owners, and they love what they do.

“We want to help people,” Stringer says.

“We’re living in a time when this is needed.”

Whaley adds, “Because of the nature of the business, we do cleanups of hoarder homes, decontaminate homes with meth labs in them. Meth, when it’s cooked, have dangerous chemicals. The residual from the cooking has to be removed from the entire residence. You can’t see it, but it’s there — in the air vents, for example.”

Prior to Grand Canyon Decon LLC, the couple bought foreclosed homes and flipped

them. With the moratorium on evictions, Stringer and Whaley’s business stopped as well.

“It’s been a really rough couple years for everyone,” she says. “I’ve been buying since I was in my 20s.”

Founding Grand Canyon Decon LLC was a logical move, Stringer explains. The two never knew what they were going to encounter when they bought foreclosed homes.

“They leave behind dog feces and people feces,” she says. “They do horrible things to properties. They rip out cabinets. We were cleaning every property, so we decided to start our own company and have that in our wheelhouse.”

Decontamination services are recession proof, Whaley says. People die every day, and some folks may not be immediately discovered. He sees the aftereffects daily,

APRIL 2021 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS /

39

Grand Canyon Decon LLC decontaminates homes as a result from hoarding, trauma, hazardous chemicals and suicide. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

but Stringer says her husband handles it very well.

“I go out and do the bids, quotes and estimates,” says Whaley, who is awaiting his contractor’s license, adding another certification to the already-impressive portfolio.

“You see a lot of tragedy. You know you have a job to do and that lessons the blow of seeing something that’s tragic. You learn to look beyond the circumstances.”

In terms of a suicide, cleanup is difficult because the contamination may be widespread. The staff uses PPE, including goggles and face masks, and steam cleans and/or uses HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacs. They capture 99.97% of particles at 0.3

microns, much smaller than the width of a human hair, a red blood cell, bacteria, pollen and allergens.

“Blood and hazardous material have to be handled delicately,” he says. “We have to bag that and have the medical waste company come for proper disposal. We decontaminate everything we use, except the PPE suits. We throw those away. We can’t take any residual into the truck or it’ll follow us the rest of the day. It’s a big set up and tear down. The job is sometimes the easiest part.”

Hoarding is another delicate situation.

The couple understand the issues behind hoarding — and suicide for that matter — and the associated feelings. Hoarding clients

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have generally been traumatized, and that’s why they hold on to items.

“We’re passionate and gentle when we’re trying to go through the items,” she says.

“We do it discreetly, too. Someone you know is a hoarder. You just don’t know it. It can be very hard to deal with and embarrassing.

We just want to ensure everyone is OK.”  Grand Canyon Decon LLC PO Box 13044 Scottsdale, Arizona 85267 480-440-3151 info@grandcanyondecon.com grandcanyondecon.com

FOOD & WINE

A Taste for…

SCOTTSDALE Pairing cravings with culinary creations nearby

N

By Alison Bailin Batz

orth Scottsdale boasts so many delicious dining destinations, it makes deciding where to eat even harder.

Here is a curated list of epicurean experiences based on what you might be craving at any given time.

The perfect steak

The family-owned and -operated Modern Oysterbar Chophouse has a secret weapon to its success on the grill: executive Michael Bouwens. The master of red meat is a veteran of Vincent’s on Camelback, 5th & Wine, Morton’s, Flemings, Roaring Fork and Zinc Bistro.

He brings all of those years of delicious experience to the Modern Oysterbar Chophouse kitchen, including a relationship with the internationally lauded Linz Meats of Chicago, known for some of the best cuts in the world. Do not miss the 30-day wet aged cuts he is sourcing from them, including a center cut filet that will make your eyes roll back in your head The steak at Modern Oysterbar Chophouse and a perfectly marbled prime is fork-tender and melts in one’s mouth. bone-in ribeye.

(Photo courtesy of Modern Oysterbar Chophouse) Info: modernoysterbarchophouse.com Winegard, who spent years at buzzy plantseed restaurant group Matthew Kenney Cuisine and took over the kitchen at the Light yet flavorful Equal parts nourishing and nosh- wellness resort in 2020. His menus at Seed worthy, Civana’s two restaurants, which and signature dinner restaurant Terras are open to the public, are perfectly are seasonally focused with the freshest crafted by executive chef Scott Winegard. of ingredients. Each dish is thoughtfully

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Executive chef Scott Winegard with one of his light yet flavorful dishes at Civana.

(Photo courtesy of Civana)

prepared and modern in technique, taking into account one’s overall health and wellness (as well as dietary restrictions and preferences) with every bite.

Info: civanacarefree.com

Elevated fusion

Do not miss The Mick. This modern French brasserie is all about small plates and takes its inspiration from any region once under French rule. This means that in addition to more standard items, guests are in for a treat with flavor infusions from Africa, Southeast Asia and even New Orleans. Given that executive chef and co-owner Brent Menke is an

FOOD & WINE

Celebrity chef Scott Conant is taking the Arizona culinary world by storm with his award-wining The Americano in North Scottsdale.

(Photo courtesy of The Americano)

Arizona native, expect a little Southwestern spice kicking up the heat in some dishes as well.

Info: themickaz.com

‘Famously’ good food

Last year, James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Scott Conant expanded his Arizona restaurant portfolio by becoming an owner of The Americano. A Scottsdale resident, Conant previously made local headlines in the Valley with the opening of Mora Italian, a progressive Italian restaurant, in 2017. Though newer to the local culinary scene, his name is a familiar one to foodies.

For years, he has been a fixture of the Food Network, notably as the long-time judge of “Chopped” and host of spinoff “Chopped Sweets.”

Info: theamericanorestaurant.com

If you have a taste for elevated American…

Robust flavors and exceptionally beautiful plating are a hallmark of executive chef Sara Garrant at Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak at the Scottsdale Fairmont Princess.

She learned to develop rich flavors while growing up in a tiny fishing community in Alaska. She literally grabbed the day’s fresh

Bourbon Steak executive chef Sara Garrant offers delectable dishes at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

(Photo courtesy of Fairmont Scottsdale Princess)

catch from the pier as a small child and threw it on a skillet, in the oven or atop a grill.

Clearly fearless from a young age, Garrant approaches her kitchen today with the same gusto, and it shows in her food. Rich with beautiful attention to detail, Garrant pours her heart into every menu item.

Info: michaelmina.com

Wine pairings

Just a few months ago, the Scottsdale Promenade welcomed Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant. Though it’s hard to tell from the outside, it features a full-scale wine-tasting room and wine shop in addition to full-service restaurant, ample bar and outdoor patio space inside. The inspired set-up allows for guests to start the evening in the tasting room, where there are flights of red, white, sparkling and rose wines before being whisked to a transitional area where barrel samples of wine are offered. Finally, once seated for a multicourse dinner, wine pairing suggestions are offered with every single dish.

Info: chwinery.com

A taste for pizza

Specializing in artisanal pies baked in a wood-fired oven, Lamp is one of North Scottsdale’s best-kept secrets. All of Lamp’s 19 red pizzas feature a base of fresh mozzarella, pecorino and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese as well as tomato sauce and basil. Among the more unique specialty pies: the Terroso, which has roasted Crimini mushrooms, roasted artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers, and the Beck, which has Sicilian sausage, and Calabrian peppers.

Info: lamppizza.com

French food

Look no further than Kierland Commons and

Scottsdale native Matt Carter takes great pride in transporting his hometown to France through his food. (Photo by Mike Mertz) the iconic Zinc Bistro. Scottsdale native and French-trained chef Matt Carter opened Zinc Bistro at Kierland Commons in 2001. Consistently among the top French restaurants in Arizona, the contemporary and romantic Scottsdale staple features a 25-foot seafood bar with fresh oysters, clams, mussels and lobster daily as well as indulgent classics including seared foie gras, Provencal bouillabaisse, chateaubriand and soufflé.

An intimate dining adventure

At only 40 seats, North Scottsdale’s Hush Public House is among the most intimate dining experiences in the Valley. It’s also one of the most out-of-the-box experiences one will likely ever have at dinner — in the best way possible. The dinner menu features just 20 options, which change regularly and range from halibut crudo to chicken liver mousse to smoked beef ribs with cucumber coleslaw. The drink menu has fantastic classic cocktails as well as an impressive wine menu.

Info: hushpublichouse.com

Dinner and a show

Kasai Japanese Steakhouse must be on the list. The built-in dinner-tainment wows guests as the charismatic chefs put on a show complete with fun and flames at one of the 14 teppan tables. It’s not just a meal — it’s an event! Start with items like the Wagyu beef sliders made with sweet sake caramelized onions, cheese, pickle and radish aioli.

Prepare to be impressed when the teppan tables heat up and the show begins. Each teppan entrée comes served with fried or coconut rice, broccolini and ends with Kasai’s signature Dole Whip frozen pineapple dessert.

Info: kasaiscottsdale.com 

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FOOD & WINE

Cat’s Pajamas Bistro opened Thanksgiving Day 2020.

(Photo by Kevin Hurley)

Remembering

the Good Ol’ Days Patrons leave with a Cheshire grin from the Cat’s Pajamas

I

By Annika Tomlin

n 1850, Americans started crafting the cocktails barflies know and love. Cat’s Pajamas Bistro offers a variety of craft cocktails and food choices that reflect the good ol’ days.

“We are probably the only true craft cocktail bar and restaurant in Scottsdale,” says general manager Avi Laub.

The restaurant opened Thanksgiving Day 2020 in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic and following the 2020 election.

“We had planned to open earlier, but

with the hecticness and COVID and then with the city even getting permission to serve alcohol, they pushed us to after the election,” Laub says about the familyowned restaurant.

The restaurant’s former occupants were forced to close because the COVID19 pandemic. Laub created an entirely new concept from the ground up. The menu includes an array of craft cocktails and a full dining menu.

Laub calls it “very bistro oriented, like a brasserie.” Cat’s Pajamas Bistro exudes the easy American hospitality while maintaining the intimacy and formality.

“In a way, we are casual elegant,” he says. “We’re not a place you need to come in a suit and tie or really dressed up. You can come comfortable and casual. We do basically require shirt, shoes you know the standard stuff.”

The feline theme within the restaurant carries to the menu, including the Cheshire burger ($20) with grass-fed Angus beef, caramelized onions, marinated tomatoes, bacon, fried eggs and house steak sauce on a brioche bun from Wildflower.

“Our small plates, basically our appetizers, are designed to be shared, but they can be devoured by one person, which happens a lot,” Laub says.

“People will come in and they’ll order the bacon lollipops ($16) and then they’ll order two to three more.

“We’re almost a true craft kitchen.

We try and prepare as much as we can in-house, with just a couple sauces, like our ranch and our blue cheese sauce, not made in-house, but it is high quality.

Our beef is grass fed, no hormones or antibiotics. Our steak that we also use

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FOOD & WINE

for the French dip is prime ribeye; it’s not choice or select. Even the milk they use in creams are BDSD free.”

Additional menu options include entrée-sized salads like the El Primo ($16) made with baby field greens, avocado, tomato, bacon, almond queso fresco and Cat’s white French dressing; the Cat’s BLT ($12) made with bacon, heirloom tomato, lemon-basil mustard aioli and baby field greens on a toasted artisan whole grain bread; and crispy deviled eggs ($12) created with pickled jalapeno, crispy shallot and El Lobo dipping sauce.

“My main focal point is providing high-quality ingredients to make great meals,” Laub says. “I believe our pricing is pretty fair for the portion size.”

Sandwiches and burgers come with a side of fries.

“The grilled cheese sandwich, which is a triple decker that has multiple types of cheese, comes with tomato soup so it’s an homage to childhood of when you went over to your friend’s house and your friend’s mom would make grilled cheese with tomato soup for you,” Laub said.

As a “big red meat eater,” Laub loves the steak sandwich ($24) made with prime ribeye, arugula, tomato, whole-grain horseradish dijonaise, bourbon glaze on a ciabatta roll, and the prime rib French dip ($20) featuring shaved prime rib, caramelized onions provolone, wholegrain mustard horseradish cream, au jus on toasted French bread.

While desserts like the key lime pie ($12) and brownie sundae ($13) are made from dessert company Honeymoon Suites, the Cat’s Pajamas adult snow cones ($17) are made in-house.

“Basically, we have a shaved ice machine, so we put ice in there and then it shaves it down and then we put alcohol liqueurs and syrups on there, and then we can also turn the brownie sundae into an adult brownie sundae,” Laub says.

Some of the notable craft cocktails on the menu include dark woods ($35) made with basil hayden dark rye, Knob Creek smoked maple, Sqrrl peanut butter whiskey, Liquid Alchemist spiced apple and Aztec chocolate bitters and Puss in Boots crafted with Clase Azul Plata tequila, Briottet banana liqueur, Destillare chocolate, Licor 43 and Angostura bitters.

Cocktails range from $18 to $25 and pay “true homage to craft cocktail that started in the 1850s,” according to Laub.

While indoor dining is still restricted due to COVID-19, Cat’s Pajamas allows

Pajamas Bistro offers outdoor dining to help accommodate social distanced dining.

(Photo by Kevin Hurley)

The El Primo ($16) is made with baby field greens, avocado, tomato, bacon, almond queso fresco and Cat’s white French dressing. (Photo by Kevin Hurley) each guest to be appropriately socially distanced. Cat’s Pajamas is available on DoorDash and Grubhub for patrons who wish to dine at home.

“We have a patio that we recently built so people can sit outside,” Laub says. “We enforce social distancing and masks. We sanitize every single table and area after they leave. Our menus are laminated, and we also have QR codes for that safety aspect especially with these trying times.”

Laub said he hopes the eatery serves as a place that people from all backgrounds

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feel included.

“We have a bit for everybody, and I try to make things welcoming as possible for anybody that comes in,” Laub said. “My slogan for the place is ‘come thirsty, come hungry, leave with a Cheshire smile.’”  Cat’s Pajamas Bistro 10323 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 480-687-5162, catspajamasbistro.com

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FOOD & WINE

SondFresh a So Clean Sauvignon blanc shines in the spring

By Alison Bailin Batz

F

rom its aromatic bouquet to its crisp finish, sauvignon blanc is a white wine well worth your time as the weather warms and sun shines bright. Here are some bottles guaranteed to put a “spring” in your step all season long: Pedroncelli 2019 Dry Creek Valley Sauvignon Blanc Just slightly pale yellow to the eye with an almost glow to it, this

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bottle is a tease in the best way possible. First, it has pear notes, but then lemon and, finally, tropical fruit. And it doesn’t stop there.

At the finish, expect green apple, citrus and even a touch of grassy earthiness. $18 Whitehaven 2020 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough Elegant, but with a wild side, this New Zealand varietal packs a punch, starting with notes of fresh-cut grass, passion fruit and lemongrass. Flavors of white peach, tropical fruit and tangy citrus soon follow. Enjoy a clean finish that will have you clamoring for another sip, especially if out by the pool. $20

FOOD & WINE

2017 Rombauer Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc This is only the second white wine to come from the winery known around the world for its award-winning famous Carneros chardonnay. It is bright and exudes love with its fragrant aromas of key lime, mango and nectarine with a fresh and lively citrus-flavored palate. $24 Longboard Vineyards 2019 Sauvignon Blanc Many of the wines at this Sonoma vineyard are a melting pot of complex, layered flavors. And it’s no wonder: Owner and avid surfer (hence the brand name) Oded Shakked was born in Israel and has lived on four continents. Bringing together winemaking and agricultural practices from around the world, this lively libation offers pomelo, apricot and peach on the palate as well as an ultra-smooth finish. $25 2020 Craggy Range Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc Pale yellow like the straw Rumpelstiltskin weaves into gold, this fierce take on the varietal surprises with notes of Kaffir lime, which is a potent citrus fruit that almost tastes like lime, lemon and mandarin all at once. The lime is then layered with concentrated flavors of both passion fruit and white stone fruit, and it has a refreshing finish. $26.95

grapes are grown. The flavors are on the exotic side, with limestone and passion fruit tempting the senses before lychee, pineapple and peaches come to the forefront. Finally, there is a definite salinity and even a touch of chalky richness to the finish, making it exceptionally drinkable. $31.99 Cakebread Cellars Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2019 The grapes for this dazzler are sourced from the most coveted vineyards in Napa Valley, including the best of the best from the Carneros, Suscol Springs, Rutherford and Calistoga regions. Rich by design, with an unmistakable zest that will wake up even the most melancholy of palates, it is hard to miss the pink grapefruit flavor here, though it is balanced with green melon and a subtle but sublime minerality. $32.99

2019 Frog’s Leap Sauvignon Blanc Famously, proudly organic dry-farmed and certified organic, Frog’s Leap only uses grapes from its iconic estate vineyard in this varietal. Crispness and a wealth of minerals are on clear display here, but there are also terrifically vibrant white flower aromatics and luscious flavors of stone fruit in every sip. $27

Trinchero Napa Valley 2017 Mary’s Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc An exceptionally vibrant wine by design, this beautiful bottle pays tribute to the founding family’s equally vibrant mother, Mary Trinchero. Crisp, acidic and ever so refreshing, delight in tropical fruits in every sip of this award winner, followed by grapefruit, figs, apricot and candied lemon. $35

Michel Redde et Fils Sancerre Les Tuilières 2018 This sauvignon blanc gets its name from the French region — Sancerre — where its

Bell Wine Cellars 2019 Sauvignon Blanc Why hello, orange blossoms! As you bring a glass of this liquid sunshine

to your lips, aromas of dreamy blossoms and nectarines will dance along your nose first.

Then, get ready for an explosion of mango and creamy lemon curd first, followed by far mellower notes of melon and peach. $35 Alpha Omega Sauvignon Blanc 1155 This double “Napa Green”-certified winery and vineyard takes pride in the sharp minerality waiting to be discovered in each of its award-winning bottles. The signature tartness is perfectly balanced with aromatic notes of mango, pineapple, apricots and just the slightest hint of caramel and vanilla as well as juicy peach and pear to the taste. $80 

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REMEMBER When In 1897, J.L. Davis opened the first business in Scottsdale, a general store and U.S. Post Office on the southwest corner of today’s Brown Avenue and Main Street.

(Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society)

Brown Avenue is the site of historic people, places and events

I

By Joan Fudala

n the heart of Old Town Scottsdale lies a four-block tract with an amazing number of historic sites and stories.

Brown Avenue, from Second Street to the south and Indian School to the north, has attracted residents, businesses and visitors to its array of retail shops, restaurants, services and events for nearly 125 years.

Briefly, Brown Avenue’s bodacious boasts: In 1897 J.L. Davis opened the town’s  first business, a general store and U.S. Post Office, on what is now the southwest corner of Brown Avenue and Main Street. His family lived behind the store. About five years after opening, he turned the business over to his assistant, Sarah Coldwell Thomas, making this the first woman-owned business in Scottsdale.  In 1904, Sarah Thomas — a widow raising three children, running the general store and serving as postmistress — invited her brother-in-law E.O. Brown and his family to

move from Wisconsin to Scottsdale to help her run the business. Brown eventually took it over, ran it until his death in the 1930s, and became a significant business and civic leader in early Scottsdale. The street running along

the east side of his general store was named Brown Avenue in his honor.  George “Cavie” and Mary Alice Cavalliere came to the Scottsdale area from California in the early 1900s to work as blacksmiths on the

“Cavie” and Mary Alice Cavalliere opened a blacksmith shop on Brown Avenue in 1910. It’s Scottsdale’s oldest, continuously operating business. (Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society)

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REMEMBER When William Butler in 1937, who renamed it Scottsdale Pharmacy. In 1948, the Saba family bought the building and renamed it Saba’s, selling Western wear there until closing the store in 2019. The Saba’s opened a second store on Brown Avenue, which also closed circa 2018-19 (it is now The Merchantile).  In 1929, a two-story building arose on Brown Avenue, just north of Sterling Drug Store. The first floor became a stand-alone U.S. Post Office; the second floor was rented as an apartment. After World War II, when Scottsdale adopted the slogan “The West’s Most Western Town,” Western wear retailer Porter’s opened in the former post office, operating there for decades. Today, it is Porter’s Western Saloon.  Members of Scottsdale’s Hispanic community raised funds and hand-built the Old Mission Catholic Church on Brown Avenue in 1933, with local architect R.T. Evans providing design and construction equipment assistance. It became the first location of Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Catholic Parish in the 1940s, served as a Knights of Columbus Hall,

Johnny Rose operated a pool hall, where silent movies were also shown, on Brown Avenue. It’s today’s Mexican Imports store.

(Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society)

Arizona Canal (then dirt-lined and in need of constant dredging by horse-drawn machines).

When the canal work was finished, they pulled their tin shop to Scottsdale, locating on the northeast corner of Brown Avenue and Second Street, then the “edge of town.” In 1920, they replaced the tin shed with an adobe blacksmith shop, which is still in operation, producing ornamental ironwork and operated by a third generation of Cavallieres. It is Scottsdale’s oldest continuously operating business. During the 1950s, the Cavallieres also operated a plumbing business adjacent to the blacksmith shop.  Pima cotton became Scottsdale’s leading agricultural crop in the late 1910s. E.O. Brown and partners opened a cotton gin located on the south side of Brown Avenue along Second Street. Although cotton ginning at the site had

ended by the 1960s, the building was used as a farmers market, trolley barn and nightclub before being razed in the 1990s to make way for a Scottsdale Healthcare facility.  Johnny Rose erected a wooden building on the northeast corner of Brown and Main in 1914, operating various businesses. Rose rebuilt a white-glazed brick building on the site in 1923 and operated a pool hall. He sold the building to the Jew Chew Song family in 1929, where they opened a grocery store, J. Chew’s. In the 1960s the family converted the grocery into Mexican Imports, still owned/operated by a later generation of Songs.  Dr. Walter Lawson opened the town’s first pharmacy, Sterling Drug Store, on the northwest corner of Brown Avenue and Main Street in 1921. Later named Lawson’s, it was sold to

Dr. Walter Lawson opened the town’s first pharmacy, Sterling Drugs, on the northwest corner of Brown Avenue and Main Street in 1921. The site was the Saba’s Western Wear store from 1948 to 2019. (Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society)

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REMEMBER When …continued from page 51 then was leased to the Scottsdale Symphony as a rehearsal hall during the 1970s to 1990s.

In the early 2000s, OLPH parishioners began an extensive restoration project; the site now hosts OLPH special events and tours.

Cavallieres, the Post Office/Porter’s,  Sterling Drug/Saba’s, Johnny Rose/Mexican Imports buildings are listed on Scottsdale’s Historic Register; the Old Mission Church/ OLPH is listed on the Scottsdale and National Register of Historic Places.  Tom Darlington bought the former Brown’s General Store in 1945 and began converting it to house studios for artists and craftspeople.

Opened in February 1946 as the Arizona Craftsmen, it housed leathercrafter Lloyd Kiva, silversmith Wes Segner, wood sculptor Sandy Sanderson, ceramicist Mathilde Schafer Davis, oil painter Lew Davis and a gift shop.

Among its first-year customers was former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt, who praised its artisans and their wares in her nationally syndicated column “My Day,” putting Scottsdale (and Brown Avenue) on the national arts and crafts map. After a fire displaced the artisans in April 1950, the building was rebuilt and housed the Purple Camel, Seidner’s Posie Post, and has been the site of Bischoff’s Shades of the West for decades.

Leo and Buck Saunders opened the  Trading Post art gallery on Brown Avenue in 1949. Among their first featured artists was Ted DeGrazia, then a relatively unknown but up-and-coming artist from Tucson. DeGrazia and Santa Fe-based artist Pop Chalee each drew record crowds to Brown Avenue during their shows.

Looking east over Brown’s General Store in the 1930s, this view shows Valley Super Service Station on the east side of Brown Avenue and the peaked roof of the Jew Chew Song family home behind its grocery on the left. (Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society)

Lou Witzeman built the first Rural Fire station on the northwest corner of Brown Avenue and Second Street circa 1950. When Scottsdale incorporated as a town in June 1951, the town contracted with Rural Fire to provide fire service, a public-private relationship that lasted through 2005 when the city of Scottsdale created its in-house fire department. From 1952 to 1955, Rural Fire provided office space for the Scottsdale Town Hall. The



In the late 1940s, The Pack Rat, Zeph’s Garage and Chew’s Grocery were located on the east side of Brown Avenue. The Old Mission Church can be seen in the background. (Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Public Library)

52 / SCOTTSDALE AIRPARK NEWS / APRIL 2021

corner now houses the Noreiga Livery Stable (named for the late Harvey Noreiga, Brown’s Ranch manager and resident of Second Street), the Parada del Sol Museum and a parking facility. The Old Town Farmers Market takes place in the parking lot on Saturdays.  In 1918, the Scottsdale Baptist Church dedicated the first stand-alone faith facility in Scottsdale on the southwest corner of Brown Avenue and Indian School Road. The

REMEMBER When During the 1950s and 1960s, Rural Fire had a fire station on the northwest corner of Brown Avenue and Second Street. Rural also provided office space for the Scottsdale Town Hall staff from 1952 to '55. (Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society)

congregation met there until building a larger campus on Osborn Road in the 1970s. The site is now part of the Chase Bank branch on Indian School Road.  The Bank of Douglas built a stand-alone building on the southeast corner of Brown Avenue and Main Street in the 1950s; it later became an Arizona Bank. It is now the second location of Bischoff’s Shades of the West store/ gallery.  A number of restaurants, cafes and bars have been located along the four blocks of

historic Brown Avenue, including the Pima Café, Hogan Cafe, Conrad’s Café, Jacqueline’s, Cactus Cones, Union Bar & Grill, the Grapevine (open since 1971), The Mission (open), Tommy V’s (open) and Porter’s (open).  Among the other retailers that have called Brown Avenue home: Mahoney’s (1930s), Tamm’s (1930s), The Pack Rat (1940s), Sax Pettit’s Basket House (1950s to 1970s), Atkinson’s Indian Trading Post, a paint store, a bakery, a gas station, Wagon Wheel Radio/Television Sales, Calico Kate’s, Affordable Elegance,

Wishing Well Gift Shop and Gilbert Ortega.  Other businesses that have been on Brown Avenue: the Scottsdale Progress editorial offices, CALAPCO/APS Scottsdale office, Launderette laundry (1950s), Zach’s auto repair (1940s), Boots Service Station and Topper Beauty Salon (1960s).

With a “heart of Old Town Scott sdale” location, Brown Avenue has hosted numerous events, including the route for OLPH’s Miracle of the Roses Pageant (1940s to 1970s), Parada del Sol Trail’s End parties, Scottsdale Jaycees’ Mavericks’ mock bank hold-ups, art and craft gallery shows and farmers markets.

In 1988, Mayor Herb Drinkwater and scores of residents yelled “Good Morning America” to a national TV audience from the corner of Brown and Main.  Several art installations grace Brown Avenue: George-Ann Tognoni’s “Yearlings” at Brown and Main, Elizabeth Connor’s “Hidden Histories” at Brown and First Street and Agnese Udinotti’s printing press art in front of Cavalliere’s.

Then, as now, Brown Avenue is a happening place. Shop and dine local; keep Brown Avenue vibrantly historic. 

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Buck and Leo Saunders opened the Trading Post art gallery on the east side of Brown Avenue in 1949, featuring artists such as Ted DeGrazia and Pop Chalee. (Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Historical Society)

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ADVICE fromWeiss APRIL 2021 Business Horoscopes

By Weiss Kelly, PMAFA ARIES 3/21-4/20 The three crises of the last year — a pandemic, economic disaster and a chaotic political transformation — may seem to play on but with less intensity. The good news is there are no retrograde planets this month.

All are moving forward, and so can you.

Underline the April 1 to April 23. Businesses related to banking, real estate and housing are emphasized and interwoven with job potentials. Make inquiries during the new moon on April 12.

Personal power days: April 10, April 11 and April 12 TAURUS 4/21-5/20 Get ready for financial surprises later in the month, once the sun enters your sign on April 20. The Aries sun marks a time of retreat and regeneration; highlight April 1 to April 19. Do a thorough personal, job and house cleaning. Your energy will be applied to personal and private affairs by the third week.

Personal power days: April 13 and April 14 GEMINI 5/21-6/20 Spring is here and you’re on your way to recovery, especially for small businesses.

Selling yourself or services are accented the week of April 14, right after the new moon on April 12. Assert yourself more and your plans will move forward. April conversations center around rules, communications and sellable products.

Personal power days: April 15, April 16 and April 17 CANCER 6/21-7/20 You can take breath. Mars, the planet of taking action and energy, is channeled into private matters the first half of April.

Financial concerns take center stage by mid-month. Cancer qualities dominate family and home-related industry. Don’t worry, you’ll find the right job. Events the weekend of April 23 have you energized and motivated.

Personal power days: April 18 and April 19

LEO 7/21-8/22 The potential of another COVID-19 spike will lead you to expand your knowledge base from April 5 to April 18, even if it is just flipping through the internet to check out classes.

Put everything in perspective this month. Full moon on April 27 will require a bit of money for travel and other transportation expenses.

Enjoy this month’s offers. It’s only money.

Personal power days: April 20, April 21 and April 22

political and pandemic subjects dominate the news. Circle the week starting on April 5 as most progressive. Once the sun moves into the money sign of Taurus on April 20, it would be a good time to settle some of your debts and increase your earnings.

The internet can be your campus. End the month with a full moon. Perhaps a financial settlement?

Personal power days: April 29 and April 30

VIRGO 8/23-9/22 April’s dynamics influences your finances and monetary investments. (Tax time extensions?) You learned a lot in the last 12 months, especially in the health care industry. April brings insight and a bit of lightness into our days. Aspects are more favorable for you the latter half of April. Do what needs to be done the first two weeks (April 5 to April 17) so you can free yourself with a bit of spare change for a short trip or day away.

Personal power days: April 23 and April 24

CAPRICORN 12/21-1/20 Your professional/work circumstances will start to move more quickly the second half of April. In the meantime, why not enjoy the numerous interests and available information. You’re never too old to learn.

Pick up knowledge about increasing your earnings. Don’t be reluctant to ask for help or advice. The planet of action, Mars, and the planet of words, Mercury, are touring in Gemini. They are asking you to communicate, speak up and be more verbal.

Personal power days: April 3, April 4 and April 5

LIBRA 9/23-10/22 With planets exchanging signs and marching forward, this month will not be dull, which is actually to your liking. This time of year, you’ll need a partner to brainstorm with and exchange info. Focus on trying to balance your own personal interests. Emphasis is on us rather than me during the new moon on April 12. Don’t go solo.

Personal power days: April 25 and April 26 SCORPIO 10/23-11/22 After April 20, you’ll have a financial windfall. Expect more changes or opportunities as April’s planet moves forward. In the next six months, you could be making a major move — internally and externally. Abrupt changes continue. The latter part of April may bring conflicts with values (the stock market, the economy, trade wars). Sometimes it brings a crisis or an ending as April comes to a close.

Personal power days: April 27 and April 28 SAGITTARIUS 11/23-12/20 With many planets in air signs, exciting

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AQUARIUS 1/21-2/19 It’s time to reinvent yourself and have serious discussions. I hope I’m wrong, but we may have a repeat performance in the next two months. Get your shots. Circle April 12 to April 28. That is the time to make home improvements while the home sales and prices soar. All eyes and ears are on Wall Street and 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Personal power days: April 5, April 6 and April 7 PISCES 2/20-3/20 Set aside time for personal space. The pandemic restrictions are not over, but we’re getting there. Those in health care will witness sudden breakthroughs, and they’ll be in demand. Creativity is in vogue as well. You’ll be busy the next few weeks. Bless all the first responders and volunteers.

Personal power days: April 21, April 28 and April 30 

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