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1900 W. Broadway Road Tempe, Arizona 85282
Phone: (480) 348-0343 • Fax: (480) 348-2109 Website: www.scottsdaleairpark.com
PUBLISHER
Steve T. Strickbine steve@scottsdaleairpark.com
VICE PRESIDENT
Michael Hiatt mhiatt@timespublications.com
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Christina Fuoco-Karasinski christina@timespublications.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
David Minton
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Connor Dziawura, Joan Fudala, Alex Gallagher, J. Graber, Weiss Kelly, Laura Latzko, Justin Liggin
DESIGNER
Veronica Thurman vthurman@timespublications.com
AD DESIGN
Christy Byerly - cbyerly@timespublications.com
ADMINISTRATION
Courtney Oldham production@timespublications.com
ONE GREAT SEASON DESERVES ANOTHER
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Jan. 21: Samara Joy
Feb. 18: Bill Charlap Trio
March 18: Michael Kocour and Friends
April
May
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AIRPARK BusinessNews
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Jones elected to Greater Phoenix Leadership
Delta Dental of Arizona President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Jones was elected to Greater Phoenix Leadership, a CEO business roundtable.
The Airpark resident joins fellow newly elected members in Viavi Solutions President and Chief Executive Officer Oleg Khaykin, Meritage Homes Chief Executive Officer Phillippe Lord, and Willmeng Construction Chief Executive Officer James Murphy.
“Greater Phoenix Leadership’s mission is to improve Arizona by bringing together talent, resources and leadership to create action on priority issues,” Jones said.
“Delta Dental of Arizona is similarly focused on bringing together talent, resources and leadership to create action to improve oral health and access to oral health care across Arizona. I look forward to being an active member of GPL to help create actions that affect positive change on a statewide level, both to benefit our members and the community at large.”
Jones is also the president of the charitable Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation, which provides funding, education and dental supplies to those in need across the state.
To date, Glendale-based Delta Dental of Arizona, through its foundation, has given more than $15 million toward these efforts.
Jones works closely with the corporate and foundation boards of directors and the executive leadership team to create and leverage partnerships that strengthen Delta Dental of Arizona’s ability to meet current and evolving market demands while remaining true to its mission of improving lives by promoting optimal oral health.
In addition to new members, GPL elected Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Chief Executive Officer Pam Kehaly as chair, SRP Chief Executive Officer Michael Hummel as vice chair, Snell & Wilmer Phoenix firm Chair Matthew Feeney as treasurer, and Emerging Airport Ventures Chief Executive Officer Gonzalo de la Melena as secretary.
Re-elected to their third three-year
terms are MAP Strategies President and Chief Executive Officer Mi-Ai Parrish, Urias Strategies President Lisa Urias, and Lewis & Roca managing partner Ken Van Winkle. Reelected to their second three-year terms are Banner Health Chief Executive Officer Peter Fine, Goodman’s Interior Structures Chief Executive Officer Adam Goodman, Sundt Construction Chief Executive Officer Mike Hoover, and Valor Global Chief Executive Officer Simer Mayo.
“This is a terrific team of leaders, and we are grateful for their willingness to serve,” said Neil Giuliano, GPL president and chief executive officer.
“With significant individual and collective community engagement, they will provide thoughtful direction and strategic vision for strengthening the business advocacy voice of GPL and our role in helping guide and strengthen the future of Arizona.”
Those in career transition can turn to Career Connectors, a nonprofi t that connects professionals to resources and hiring companies.
Through its virtual events, Career Connectors hosts free virtual events with motivational and educational topics to
look for job opportunities, how to articulate value, and how to network online and in person.
The events are 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, August 11, and Thursday, August 25, the latter of which is the finance and insurance career expo.
Michael Jones is Delta Dental of Arizona’s president and chief executive officer. (Delta Dental of Arizona/Submitted)
Wilde Wealth Management starts insurance arm
Airpark-based Wilde Wealth Management Group — a financial services firm that provides comprehensive retirement, investment, real estate, insurance, legal and tax planning services all under one roof through in-house partners and local affiliated firms — launched Wilde Wealth Insurance.
The new in-house firm, which will be located at Wilde’s newly expanded Scottsdale headquarters, offers corporate and individual insurances services, business insurance — including general liability, property and workers compensation — life and disability insurance, long-term care insurance, and homeowners and renter’s insurance.
Taylor Whatcott will lead Wilde Wealth Insurance as president of insurance services. In his role, Whatcott will oversee client engagement as well as work directly with Wilde founder and Chief Executive Officer Trevor Wilde and his team to grow the practice via business development as well as through recruitment and training.
“Taylor’s white-glove, customized service to businesses of all sizes as well as individuals and families is in perfect alignment with how we approach everything we do for our clients,” Wilde said. “We are thrilled to welcome a talent at his level and look forward to providing his services to our current and future clients, helping further streamline their financial needs.”
Prior to joining Wilde Wealth, Whatcott worked in commercial insurance services for Federated Insurance, including for several years as a marketing representative and a district manager. He also brings experience from Progrexion, where he served in a senior representative role. Known for his personal approach to helping clients, Whatcott earned several awards for his work, including being named the employee of the year twice at Progrexion and among the top producers within Federated Insurance multiple years.
“My goal has always been, and will continue to be, taking genuine care of people,” Whatcott said.
“In this role, I look forward to helping protect their hardearned work as well as their families for generations. My aim is also to educate individuals and businesses so they can make the best decisions for themselves, their teams and their families.”
Whatcott graduated from Highland High School in Gilbert. After serving a two-year volunteer mission in Nicaragua, he earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from NAU.
Whatcott lives in North Scottsdale with his wife and two children.
Scottsdale Bar Association hosting summer social
The Scottsdale Bar Association is hosting its summer social, during which it will present its Award of Excellence to Scottsdale City Court Judge Orest Jejna.
The Award of Excellence recognizes an individual for outstanding service to the legal community.
The event begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, August 11, at Gainey Ranch Golf Club, 7600 Gainey Club Drive, Scottsdale.
Info: scottsdalebar.org
AIRPARK BusinessNews
Continued from page 7
The Kohl’s at 8680 E. Raintree Drive is now home to Sephora.
Sephora at Kohl’s features a 2,500-square-foot, fully immersive beauty experience that mimics the look and feel of a free-standing Sephora. There, Sephora-trained beauty advisers offer personalized beauty consultations and assistance with finding products, while testing and discovery zones serve a rotating assortment of new, emerging or trending products.
Sephora will open in 400 Kohl’s stores, spanning 36 states, this year. These stores bring the Sephora at Kohl’s locations to 600 and puts the partnership on track to meet its 850 store goal by 2023.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing Sephora at Kohl’s closer to millions more of our customers nationwide through this 400-store expansion,” said Doug Howe, Kohl’s chief merchandising officer.
“The quick and vast rollout of Sephora at Kohl’s is a testament to how much we believe in this partnership and making prestige beauty more accessible to people everywhere. We’re excited to grow and bring this elevated beauty experience to more of Kohl’s existing and new customers this year.”
The introduction of Sephora at Kohl’s has also been the impetus to transforming and simplifying Kohl’s entire store experience. With Sephora at Kohl’s positioned prominently at the front of the store, it provided an opportunity to optimize the store space and expand categories that are most important, like active, casual and beauty. With the store transformation, Kohl’s is working to create a sense of discovery every time a customer walks in.
In addition to the expansion, Sephora at Kohl’s is also adding six new prestige beauty brands to its assortment this spring.
Murad, Clarins, Jack Black, Living Proof, Versace and Voluspa will be joining some of the most recognizable and coveted beauty brands available at Sephora at Kohl’s, such as Rare Beauty, NARS, Charlotte Tilbury, Kiehl’s, Giorgio Armani, Olaplex, Clinique and Sephora Collection.
“Since our partnership with Kohl’s began, we’ve always had the intention to keep the Sephora at Kohl’s beauty assortment as relevant and similar to our free-standing Sephora stores as possible,” said Artemis Patrick, Sephora’s executive vice president and global chief merchandising officer.
“We want every customer who comes to Sephora at Kohl’s to be able to discover new brands and find their favorites, just like they do at our other Sephora stores. The additions of these new brands to Sephora at Kohl’s demonstrate how we are continuing to bolster the assortment to bring the best experience to all of our new and existing customers.”
Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce celebrating 75 years of work in the business sector
The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 75th year of promoting and supporting business in Scottsdale.
On March 6, 1947, the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce incorporated under then-President Wes Segner. The city had a population of just over 2,000.
The chamber urged Scottsdale businesses to build or remodel buildings with Western-type architecture to amplify the town’s unique character and adopted the slogan “The West’s Most Western Town.”
A lot has changed in Scottsdale in 75 years. The population is now over 250,000, and the chamber has over 1,000 members.
According to Mark Stanton, Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce president and chief executive officer, the organization’s future is as
The J hosting back-to-school supply
drive
During August, the Valley of the Sun JCC will support two organizations with a back-to-school supply drive.
The J will provide school supplies to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley and partner with the Scottsdale Police Department’s Police Activities League to support families at Yavapai Elementary School in Scottsdale.
Members of the community are asked to support local students by providing any of the following school supplies. These supplies will be collected in bins next to the membership desk at The J.
bright as its legacy.
“The chamber has been a part of positive change in Scottsdale since its inception, paving the first streets, creating a character for the city, establishing the Jaycees, the CVB, the Charros, Scottsdale Leadership, and so much more,” Stanton said.
“But the drive to guide Scottsdale into a positive future has never been stronger, and we feel responsible to those who built our legacy to grow upon their work and make our own legacy even brighter.”
As a legacy to its 75th anniversary celebration, the chamber is producing a 75th Anniversary Commemorative Book featuring a history of the chamber and its accomplishments.
Info: scottsdalechamber.com/news
Backpacks
No. 2 pencils and pencil sharpeners
Pocket folders
Composition notebooks
Sanitary wipes
Dry-erase markers
Notebook paper
Crayons
Three-ring binders
Hand sanitizer
Glue and glue sticks
Colored pencils
Financial donations may also be dropped off at the membership desk or mailed to: Valley of the Sun JCC, Attn: Back-to-School Drive, 12701 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 85254.
For more information, call 480-483-7121 or vosjcc.org.
Sephora opens in Airpark Kohl’s
Sephora at Kohl's has 600 locations already open, which puts the partnership on track to meet its 850store goal by 2023.
Photo: Christian de Araujo
AIRPARK Buzz
Patient Alternative Relief Center
Scottsdale’s only wholesale marijuana cultivation site may triple in size
By J. Graber
Scottsdale’s only marijuana cultivation site could soon more than triple in size.
The Scottsdale Planning Commission voted 6-1 July 13 to recommend the city council approve a conditional use permit application to allow cultivation of marijuana plants for the Patient Alternative Relief Center at 7640 E. Gelding Drive.
If council approves the recommendation, the facility in the Scottsdale Airpark will grow from 15,000 square feet to 46,550 square feet.
The conditional use permit would also be good for a possible second floor addition to the existing facility at 7655 E. Evans for an office.
Planning Commissioner Barney Gonzales was the lone vote against the recommendation. He took issue with the second-story office.
“I’m normally not too concerned about the use of the property, but I have a problem putting in a conditional use permit on a yet-to-be-done remodeling of the second floor. I would support this permit if we could pull out the second-story permit for now.”
The current facility has been in operation since 2013. It expanded in 2019 to include the neighboring 7645 E. Evans.
The facility would put less of a burden on traffic and parking than its previous use because it is a wholesale outlet, owner Bob Chilton says.
“We are not a retail dispensary,” Chilton says. “We do not sell to the public. We do not have visitors. We do not have patients. We do not have clients of any kind. We are a pure wholesale facility, not a retail facility.”
The city water department does not see the need for a water resources review, according to city project coordination liaison Greg Bloemberg.
When expanded, the facility is expected to use between 2,700 and 2,800 gallons of water per day. Chilton says the facility can get the water use so low by using a computerized sprinkler system, organic fertilizer and a new water recycling system.
“We reclaim the water from the air-conditioning units,” he says. “We reclaim the water from the humidifiers. We reclaim the water that is excess from the plants.”
That will reduce water usage by 58%, Chilton says. That water usage is 15% less than if the new facility were built into a condominium.
“We would use 68% of what a cotton farm would use. … I think we’re playing team ball to try and reduce our water consumption at a very high cost,” Chilton says.
Similarly, the facility will use five different filtration systems to prevent the smell of the plants from leaking to the outside. Air is not vented to the outside, Chilton says.
“We just recycle the same air,” Chilton says. “That reduces our power load because we don’t take 115-degree air and cool it; we just circle the same air around and around and around.”
The expanded facility will also add about 10 jobs as well, he says.
The facility will be gated for security’s sake.
“The police department’s looked at it; the fire department has approved it,” Chilton says.
Scottsdale’s only marijuana cultivation center could triple in size if City Council approves the owner’s request. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)
AIRPARK Buzz
Raring to Go
Leaders envision big encore to a big arts season
By Alex Gallagher
Last season at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts was unlike anything that program director Abbey Messmer and Scottsdale Arts CEO Gerd Wuestemann had seen in their careers.
“It’s been a roller coaster ride for everyone in their personal lives and their work lives, including us,” Messmer says. “We’ve grown together along the way and adapted in a lot of ways, and we were able to stay open the entire year.”
Despite the challenges of producing shows as the world navigated its way through a pandemic, the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts staged 207 events through June 15.
Wuestemann says that number “for any performing arts venue to execute in the best of times is a really heavy lift. Our crew has worked their tails off, and it was not the best of times. COVID-19 stuck around for a lot longer than we anticipated, and our team worked through really difficult conditions.”
Wuestemann and his staff followed venues across the nation in requiring patrons to
provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test or proof of full vaccination to attend shows, staying the course until late spring.
“We’ve had an amazing season,” Messmer says. “I guess the biggest takeaway is to persevere and collaborate with your partners.”
Now she, Wuestemann and the rest of the staff are planning a big encore to that season.
Messmer is anxious to kick off one of the biggest seasons of her career with showstopping acts like the Temptations, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, an appearance from Broadway star Jessica Vosk, the return of ukulele strummer Jake Shimabukuro, as well as acts like Mariachi Sol De Mexico and “Assisted Living: The Musical.”
However, it is the events planned for outside the performing arts center that have Wuestemann and Messmer the most excited.
Canal Convergence is expected to be bigger in celebration of its 10th anniversary. The Civic Center is set to finish its renovation in January. Once it’s complete, Scottsdale Arts is expected to announce another lineup of acts and the return of Sunday A’Fair for the first time since 2020.
“So, this year’s Canal Convergence will be extra special and we allocated even more of a budget for the event,” Wuestemann says.
“We have also reached out to some of the artists that were part of the very first Canal Convergence back 10 years ago, and oftentimes those artists that we premiered back then have used this as a launchpad for their public art careers and have now become
Among the highlights of Scottsdale’s coming arts season is completion of outdoor spaces around the Civic Center. Recently Gerd Wuestemann, president and CEO of Scottsdale Arts, checked out the project with Brett Elsasser, project manager from Willmeng Construction. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)
AIRPARK Buzz
some of the most celebrated artists in their public art sphere.”
Because of this, Wuestemann expects this year’s festivities to attract over 300,000 people.
“Last year, I think we drew almost 300,000 people to the canal, I hope to think we’re going to get back to that level and probably exceeded this year for the 10th anniversary,” he says.
Not long after Canal Convergence, Wuestemann will race to put the final touches on the Civic Center, where crews just began laying concrete.
Construction has shifted near the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and Museum of Contemporary Art, forcing patrons to enter SMoCA through the staff entrance on the north side of the building and enter the performing arts center on the south side until construction on the concourse concludes in August.
Once the dust settles from over a year of construction, Wuestemann is excited to kick off outdoor events just in time for the Super Bowl in Glendale on February 12.
“On January 22, we’re reopening outdoor spaces at Civic Center,” he says. “The ESPN sports broadcasts will happen from the edge of our new Civic Center. It will set up in Old Town right at Main Street with the Civic Center in the background.”
After the Super Bowl leaves town, Wueste-
mann is excited to keep the good times rolling on his newly constructed stages.
“With the outdoor stages coming into their own as well, we will have additional opportunities to bring big productions outside,” he says.
Messmer says the increase in stages will lead to an up in her staff size.
“We’re expecting to increase our staff a little bit and be very busy with presenting events and renting the space,” she says.
Although the 2021-22 season has closed its curtains, Wuestemann and Messmer feel the past season will be reflected on positively and they are anxious for acts to take the various stages at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and on the Civic Center lawn.
“This past season is one we’ll always look back with a special place in our hearts because we were able to do so much this year and bring so many joyful moments back to people,”
Wuestemann says.
Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández will return to present its “A Merry-Achi Christmas” show on December 17. (Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández/Submitted)
TWO-STORY SINGLE-TENANT OFFICE/WAREHOUSE BUILDING
PHILANTHROPY
Parsons
Foundation gives one·n·ten a $500K grant
By Scottsdale Airpark News Staff
irpark-based Bob & Renee
Parsons Foundation gave
one·n·ten a $500,000 grant to support the nonprofit’s online digital programs, inperson satellite sites and Camp OUTdoors.
One·n·ten is dedicated to enhancing the lives of LGBTQ+ and allied youth ages 11 to 24 by promoting self-expression, selfacceptance and healthy life choices.
“The hard truth is, many LGBTQ+ youth feel trapped, unsupported and unseen in today’s society,” says Bob Parsons, founder and chief executive officer of PXG. “It is our duty to stand beside them and ensure that no one, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, feels they are not part of the American dream.”
One·n·ten strives to provide an atmosphere of acceptance and self-expression to youth who are still discovering their identities and those who may not feel free to express themselves at home, school or work.
Its programs offer a high impact, low-cost model, to effectively reach and connect youth throughout Arizona and beyond.
“The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has been an incredible supporter of LGBTQ+ youth and young adults,” says Nate Rhoton, chief executive officer of one·n·ten.
“Its charitable leadership continues to inspire others to support our organization and allows us to expand our programming to reach even more vulnerable youth in our community.”
The most recent grant from the Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation will help support the following programs:
Camp OUTdoors is dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ youth build leadership skills, work in collaborative ways, and develop a strong sense of self and community. Offering a mix of traditional, fun camp activities alongside focused workshops and educational programming, campers build confidence and resilience.
The one·n·ten satellite sites offer critical support to youth who do not have access to reliable safe spaces in their communities.
These locations across the state help LGBTQ+ youth to make connections with their peers and gain support from caring adults who reflect their unique identities. Weekly group sessions at satellite locations can include guest speakers, small-group discussions, art, music, dance and community activism.
Digital programs provide opportunities to engage disconnected youth who are unable to attend in person and help connect them to important resources offered by one·n·ten. Engaging online programs have been facilitated on a variety of youth-friendly platforms like Zoom, Twitch, RocketChat and Discord.
“While we’ve come a long way, the LGBTQ+ community still faces significant challenges when it comes to things like bullying, equal access to medical care, or simply having the ability to be confident with their own identity,” says Renee Parsons, president and executive creative director of PXG apparel.
“One·n·ten is helping create a world where LGBTQ+ youth are empowered, supported and embraced for who they are.”
One n ten strives to provide an atmosphere of acceptance and self-expression to youth in the LGBTQ+ community. (Submitted)
MEET YourAirparkNeighbor
Finance Family and
Father-daughter team achieves business, personal dreams
By Justin Liggin
From an early age, Robert “Bob” Wernecke was inspired by his mother to know his worth and then add tax, a message that influenced him to work hard, chase goals and find joy in his craft.
He took that knowledge in 1985 and parlayed it into his ECA Financial. Approaching its 40th anniversary, ECA Financial is focused on financial services, benefits, retirement strategy, and more needs for families and businesses.
While building the business, he also served in several leadership positions within the industry, most notably as president of the National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors.
Early start
Wernecke’s pursuit for success is one that started 30 miles outside of Titletown in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where he grew up alongside his three siblings. While he enjoyed his life in Wisconsin, Wernecke looked to break the mold and escape the traditions of his town.
“I came from a town with only two industries: ship manufacturing and aluminum cookware production. You worked in one or the other for your whole career and then you retired — that just wasn’t for me,” Wernecke says.
Wernecke met his wife, Diane, in high school. Shortly after graduating in 1964, the high school sweethearts chose Chandler as their wedding and honeymoon destination in 1967.
Falling in love with the landscapes and
demeanor of Arizona, the couple packed up and moved to the Scottsdale Airpark area in 1968. The area would become home base for life and business.
“Fifty years later and we still have no regrets about moving here, even in August,” Wernecke says.
Recalling his mother’s encouraging words, Wernecke went headfirst into an industry where he could determine his own worth and help others: insurance.
“My mother told me, ‘If you want to get paid what you’re worth, go into commission sales,’ so I took her advice and made it my goal to go into insurance,” Wernecke says.
“And she was right! I quickly learned that you get paid exactly what you put in.”
Within a year of living in Arizona, Wernecke landed his first job at MetLife in 1968 at 22 years old as he confidently entered the
office and proclaimed his interest in selling insurance.
“I was hired almost as soon as I walked in the door and said I wanted to start selling,” Wernecke says. “I was told that no one my age had ever said they wanted to sell insurance. The sheer anomaly of it caught their attention.”
He’s a financial aficionado now, but Wernecke explains he was a slow burner when it came to mastering the craft.
“I definitely wasn’t an overnight success,” Wernecke says. “It took me 10 years to truly understand the meaning of my work, which is the client. I also learned more about the meaning of value and found out that if you want to become more valuable, you must give more of yourself and always be willing to help others.”
In addition to his role as an insurance sales-
For over 35 years, ECA Financial has provided services to clients in the Airpark area.
(Robert Wernecke/Submitted)
MEET YourAirparkNeighbor
man, Wernecke also added the title of father to his resume as he and Diane welcomed their daughters, Lisa and Pamela, in 1970 and 1973, respectively.
As his daughters grew up in the Airpark area, Wernecke joined the team at General American Life Insurance Company in 1978 following his 10-year stint at MetLife — providing another opportunity for him to harness his skills and build the foundation for what would eventually become his own insurance business.
A family affair
Upon graduating from Saguaro High School in 1988, Wernecke’s daughter, Lisa Martin, attended Scottsdale Community College and ASU before heading into a fulltime position at Biltmore Insurance Group. She would move into human resources and administration roles — first with Surface Tek in 1994 and then at Mobility Electronics in 1999. Upon departure from Mobility Electronics in 2002, Wernecke offered her an opportunity to join ECA.
“I was hesitant because I didn’t even know what my father did for a living, not in a dayto-day way at least,” Martin says.
“I told him that I would interview with his office manager under the condition that he removed my name from my resume. I wanted her to hire me for me, not just because I was Bob’s daughter.”
Wernecke’s office manager pops into his office.
“With no knowledge that Lisa was my daughter, she told me that I would be crazy not to hire her. This was the beginning of our partnership at ECA,” Wernecke says.
Starting as an executive assistant to her father, Martin quickly picked up the job and within six months had earned her health and
life insurance license and began an individual role in 2003. Eventually, she became firm vice president. Along the way, Martin also gave birth to her son, Jackson, in 2006.
“Hiring Lisa was the best choice I have ever made for my business, without a doubt,” Wernecke says.
With Martin’s strengths in life and health insurance and the administrative side of the business and Wernecke’s specialization in life and disability insurance, benefits planning and sales, the duo meets the needs of their wide client base.
“Neither one of us was quite sure how it would work out in the beginning, but I got to learn from my father, and he’s the best in the industry. Our background, values, work ethic, outlook and attitude align perfectly for us at ECA,” Martin says.
The duo has proved to not only make a difference in their clients’ lives but in the community as well. The team has served as guest speakers at St. Mary’s Food Bank Community Kitchen for seven years to help students learn money management skills.
Martin assists at Scottsdale Bible Church as a budget coach and children’s ministry assistant. Martin also volunteered with Gabriel’s Dreams, an organization aiding Sudanese refugees
in Arizona. Wernecke’s community efforts include serving as a lector at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and serving among the initial donors to launch A Stepping Stone Foundation, which helps provide highquality multigenerational learning to children in Phoenix.
“Life is all about giving, not getting. My dad always made sure we gave back to the community and realized that you can’t always take. The farmer always puts back into the field what he gets out, and life is just the same,” Wernecke says.
“If you want to grow, then you must meet people who are more intelligent than you and can provide the mentorship you need. If you’re not growing, you’re dying.”
On top of offering world-class service to satisfied clients, 2021 was a special year for Martin as she tied the knot with her husband, Bill. She joins Bill’s son, 12-year-old Quinn, her 16-year-old son Jackson, and their two rescue dogs.
“It took me until I found this job to discover that this is not just a career but my life mission. I can help people and make a living — it doesn’t even feel like work to me,” Martin says.
As for Wernecke, he still finds passion in his work every day.
“I’ve only being doing this for 54 years, but my retirement plan is to slowly taper off over the next 37 years until I’m out of the business,” Wernecke says. “Everyone always laughs at that, but I will do this job until someone tells me I can’t do it anymore.”
Bob Wernecke and Lisa Martin, the father-daughter duo behind ECA Financial.
(Robert Wernecke/Submitted)
Lisa Martin is the vice president of ECA Financial in Scottsdale. (Lisa Martin/Submitted)
Avery Lane Named Best Consignment Store
Four Years in a Row!
At 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
* Not to be combined with
30,000 sq. ft. of fabulous designer treasures. Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm
August 31, 2022
promotions, expires May 30, 2022
Darlene Richert Proprietor
Chad Verdaglio, owner and president of Sawyer Aviation Group, hopes to begin selling HALO technology to other aviation companies by the end of 2022.
(Dennis Murphy/Contributor)
Heart of the Matter
Sawyer Aviation makes that connection
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Sawyer Aviation Group has won plenty of awards, but Chad Verdaglio is honored to transport donated organs.
Nearly 40% of the Airpark company’s charter flights fly organs and medical transplant teams, the owner and president says.
A pilot for a quarter century, the hands-on executive is improving the way it is done with
HALO, which allows for organ transplant coolers to be safely strapped into the bed of the aircraft to keep the container from moving around in flight.
Sawyer Aviation is using HALO for its organ transport flights now and hopes to begin selling its patent-pending device to other aviation companies by late 2022.
“We’re working on a second version of HALO to roll out before the end of the year,” Verdaglio says.
“It calls for safe, legal and convenient transportation of all different types of transplant containers, which can be quite large and unyielding. In the cabin of a small- to mid-sized jet, it can be a problem
to get in there.”
The organ transportation is one of many ways in which Sawyer Aviation Group is contributing to the Valley and beyond. The company’s interests vary from flying guests to more than 5,000 airports to providing event space in its hangars.
Honored for work
Verdaglio will be honored on Friday, September 29, at Chateau Luxe as a 2022 Phoenix Titan 100, which recognizes the city’s top 100 CEOs and C-level executives.
“The Titan 100 are shaping the future of the Phoenix business community by building a distinguished reputation that is unrivaled
dispatch for regional aircraft on ground air and ground mobile-maintenance response, enabling quick and after-hours response.
“We are very proud of our company history and the growth we have achieved,” Verdaglio says.
The full-service aviation company was founded in 1961 and has additional operations and offices out of Van Nuys Airport in California.
It began as a private charter provider and flight school, with Verdaglio purchasing it in 2002. Under his leadership, it expanded its private charter services and flight academy. He’s also added aircraft management and maintenance and aircraft sales and acquisition.
Since 2018 the company has achieved 900% increase in revenues.
Sawyer Aviation Group’s three divisions — aviation, Sawyer flight academy and SawyerMX maintenance — are continuing to grow.
“We’re the largest maintenance provider at Scottsdale Airport, which is the busiest single runaway, non-airline airport in the world.
mechanic, but his life changed course when he joined the Marine Corps instead.
During his time in the Marines, he served more than 11 years on active-duty infantry with five years of combat duty in the Middle East. While serving, he earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and professional aeronautics, as well as a master's in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
As a professional pilot, Johnson has worked for major airlines, charters and as a pilot in the tour industry. He also has extensive experience in air ambulance flight, providing organ transplant transportation, as well as patient and critical care operations. Prior to joining Sawyer Aviation, Johnson was with FlexJet, where he served as lead captain, managing a fleet of airplanes and pilots.
“Michael’s extensive industry experience and knowledge is an asset to Sawyer Aviation, and we are thrilled to have him join our leadership team,” Verdaglio says.
and preeminent in their field,” says Jaime Zawmon, Titan CEO president. “We proudly recognize the Titan 100 for their successes and contributions. We know that they will have a profound impact that makes an extraordinary difference for their customers and clients across the nation.”
Verdaglio adds, “It’s nice to be included and recognized with other Valley business leaders and entrepreneurs. I think it’s proof of the hard work that all of us at Sawyer have been doing.”
Sawyer Aviation Group employs the largest staff of any maintenance, repair and operations provider supporting the Scottsdale airport’s top fleets. Services also include 24/7
“We continue to add aircraft to the fleet. Where we fly frequently seems to be expanding, and we’ve continued to grow our team.”
Sawyer Aviation recently tapped Michael Johnson for the position of chief pilot. In his new role, Johnson will continue to fly clients, while also managing company flight crews, training, scheduling and ensuring Sawyer’s team of pilots stay up to date on certifications.
Johnson’s career in aviation spans nearly 50 years, beginning when he was 13 and took a job at a flight school in exchange for flight training.
After graduating high school, Johnson enrolled in a trade school to become an aircraft
He adds, “It’s cool to work with great people and equally as exciting about what we’re doing and seeing.”
Sawyer Aviation Group
Scottsdale Airport (KSDL)
14600 N. Airport Drive, Second Floor Ross Aviation FBO Building Scottsdale
Sawyer Aviation Office Hours
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday
Charter Sales/Flight Operations
Open 24 hours each day
480-922-2723
info@sawyeraviation.com
Under Chad Verdaglio’s leadership, Sawyer Aviation Group expanded as a private charter provider and flight school, as well as adding aircraft management and maintenance and aircraft sales ad acquisition. (Dennis Murphy/Contributor)
Expanding Entertainment
Scottsdale
Private Event Venues flourishes with new partner and event locations
By Laura Latzko
The event-planning industry took a major hit during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scottsdale Private Event Venues and Scottsdale Hangar Parties, local companies out of Scottsdale, have had to adapt to changes in the industry, but they are growing thanks to the expertise of the woman behind the business, Karen May.
The companies help with planning a range of different types of corporate, business and private events in different parts of the Valley, but they are best known for their hangar parties.
May started the companies in 2017. She has worked in different parts of the hospitality industry and wanted to get away from ballroom environments.
“I love a blank slate. I love something that I can turn into something else,” May says
The company is poised to expand to new venues.
There are new hangar builds in Deer Valley and in Mesa at Falcon Field Airpark, and a new event venue in Scottsdale Airpark called Micks Place, which will have luxury cars and memorabilia.
May says having hangars in other locations, such as Mesa, will expand on what her company is able to offer.
“We think it will be a good addition out there with all of those big companies coming in to do holiday parties or brand launches,” May says
The owners of the hangars and event venue have sought out May’s advice on what is needed for the space.
“We don’t usually get to be involved in what the building is like,” May says “We always work around things, but it’s neat when you get something that you wanted.”
May recently brought on a new partner, Julie Hannigan.
Originally from a small town in Oregon,
Kay May of Scottsdale Private Event Venues and Scottsdale Hangar Parties often incorporates classic and antique cars into events. (Karen May/Submitted)
Hannigan has a background working in the hospitality industry, in hotels and restaurants.
May has known Hannigan since 1989 and brought her to Arizona from Texas to work with her at a local hotel.
“I don’t have the time or patience to bring some youngster in and try to train them. Julie’s been on the hotel side forever, so she knows food and beverage. She knows operations. We are very similar. It was the perfect fit,” May says.
May says having a partner has allowed her company to do more events, sometimes on the same day.
“I know that it’s going to get done, and it’s going to get done right. There’s not a lot of times that that happens, but lately it seems to be more and more, especially around the holidays,” May says
Having a partner has also allowed May to be able to travel other states, such as North Carolina, to produce conferences.
With their events, the company always tries to bring custom, out-of-the-box experiences for guests.
They can include classic and antique cars,
motorcycles, helicopters, military aircraft, photo booths, food trucks, themed food and beverage stations, visits from sports figures and/or unique entertainers.
Many of her events incorporate vehicles from the Janet Cussler Car Collection. Often, Janet Cussler will come out to talk about the cars on display.
May always tries to wow guests with the details she brings.
For past events, she has had helicopter and boat rides, interactive sports games, laser shows, a Pan Am era theme, a CEO horseback arrival, live entertainment from major country artists, and a doghouse-building contest.
May also strives to find unique entertainers who will leave an impression on guests. This has included an aerialist pouring drinks, comedians, DJs, costumed characters and mascots, orchestras, live singers and bands.
Events can take place in different types of venues, from hangars and equestrian ranches to private homes and luxury car vaults.
Recently, Scottsdale
(Karen
Although the company mainly does corporate events, they have recently put on some weddings and celebrations of life, often for people to which May has close ties.
For a friend who had passed away from cancer, May did a beach-themed celebration of life at a hangar, complete with frozen margaritas.
In April, she organized a wedding brunch in which the bride and groom arrived to the event in a helicopter.
During the brunch, there was an interactive breakfast wall, mimosa and bloody mary bars, staff dressed as pilots and flight attendants, an airplane-themed dessert, and an airplane display filled with family pictures.
May says doing private events adds variety.
“We are spreading our wings and doing some different stuff. But we are still those hangar girls,” May says.
May has worked with high-profile celebrities such as Tiger Woods and Kurt Warner and helped to plan events for the Super Bowl, Final Four, the Fiesta Bowl and Major League Baseball.
Before starting her own business, she worked jobs in sales, destination management, catering and event
planning in the hotel, production and trade show industries. She also hosted parties on a yacht during a brief stint when she lived in Texas.
May has been recognized for her work as Meeting Planner International’s Meeting Planner of the Month, with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International’s Arizona chapter and a Smart Women in Meetings Award during the Smart Woman Summit in Las Vegas.
During events, May and her crew plan for and bring in everything, including décor, catering, audio visual equipment, first-aid kits, and women’s kits with bobby pins and sewing items.
“We have to anticipate every bit of that. We bring everything into the hangar down to the toilet paper,” May says.
“One of the reasons that I learned so well was way back, when I was in Houston, I was running a yacht and doing events on it. Once it takes off, you have nowhere to get toilet paper or extra butter. You’re stuck. You are out in the middle of the ocean. I think I learned really well from that side of it.”
Coming out of the pandemic has been a challenging time, with supply chain issues and short staffs.
Many catering, cleaning and security companies May works with are understaffed, making it difficult to find enough people for events.
A lot of meeting planners were let go during the pandemic. May is finding that she is working more with admins, receptionists and HR staff, who have been
Julie Hannigan, left, and Karen May run Scottsdale Private Event Venues and Scottsdale Hangar Parties together.
(Allen Nichols Photography/Submitted)
Private Event Venues hosted a beach-themed celebration of life.
May/Submitted)
tasked with planning large events such as conferences.
“We are spending more time with them on the phone, explaining why you need to do this or why you don’t want to do that,” May says.
She has found getting ahold of enough ice, tablecloths, tables and chairs, clear plastic glasses, certain foods, champagne and other alcohols is an issue at times.
It helps that she has worked in the eventplanning industry most of her life.
“I was born and raised here. All of my friends in the event industry, and I can call any one of them and say, ‘I need help,’” May says.
May said as an event planner, it is important to be flexible and willing to do anything needed to make an event successful.
For her, this has meant driving people to events, acting as a “bodyguard,” sewing buttons on clothing, working the front desk of a hotel, moving chairs and tables in meeting rooms, and climbing scaffolds.
Along with her work with private and corporate clients, May also tries to give back to charity organizations through her company.
During the pandemic, the company worked more with nonprofits such as the Special Olympics and St. Mary’s Food Bank with their events.
She also helped with food drives, PPE packages for hospitals, and the Scottsdale Beat the Heat care packages for the elderly. Throughout the years, she has also worked
with charity organizations such as Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Center, the Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial and the Be Kind Project.
May is especially passionate about rescue dog organizations and has five of her own fur babies.
She works a lot with the National Mill Dog Rescue, which rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes dogs that have been used for breeding purposes.
She tries to help these organizations through fundraising, donations, event planning and marketing.
She says this is the best way for her to help
Karen May of Scottsdale Private Event Venues and Scottsdale Hangar Parties works with different rescue groups and has five rescue dogs of her own. (Dana Gibbons Photography/Submitted)
because she can’t rescue every dog in need, as much as she would like to.
Her husband is a pilot, and she knows a number of pilots through her work. Because of this, she has been able to call on her contacts to help with rescue efforts.
“It happened in Houston with all the water. We sent a plane. They must have picked up 100 dogs and taken them to another rescue where it was dry. It is fun having those connections and knowing that you can save that many dogs at one time,” May says.
For more information on Scottsdale Private Event Venues and Scottsdale Hangar Parties, call 480-616-0707 or go spevevents.com.
DEFENSE IN DEPTH
American Defense Structures covers all bases when it comes to safety
By Connor Dziawura
American Defense Structures
CEO David Fair isn’t trying to scare potential customers. But under the premise that anything could happen at any time, he and his business partners aim to ensure they are safe both in terms of their surroundings and their knowledge.
A disabled veteran-owned and -operated ballistic, blast and attack protective systems company founded in 2018 and based out of the Scottsdale Airpark, American Defense Structures specializes in safe rooms, security doors and security film, as well as an array of expert-taught safety classes.
“We do threat assessments with our clients and find out what their fears are, their needs are. We don’t try to oversell them or anything
like that. We don’t sell fear, but we sell safety,” Fair explains.
The company started with an encounter between Fair and Kris “Tanto” Paronto, who was part of the response to the 2012 attack on the CIA annex in Benghazi, Libya. The two got to talking, and on the basis that a safe room could have saved lives during the incident, Fair suggested the two work together, combining Fair’s financial means and Paronto’s CIA and Army Ranger experience.
“And so we flew down to Florida,” Fair recalls of partnering with a company called NSI Precision on development, design, manufacturing and installation. “A dear friend of mine has a 100,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fabrication facility, and we started making some mock safe rooms using their engineers, naval architects and a linking
system that … there’s no way to penetrate it. So once you’re behind it, you’re behind it and nobody’s going to get to you.”
Fair quickly realized he didn’t have the manpower, so he brought in several partners, all of whom come from military backgrounds. They include Grant “Doctor” Bucks, chief operating officer; Jimmy “Skin” Forbes, chief security officer; Mike “Magic” Keena, chief information officer; and John “Yano” Damyanovich, security specialist and installation manager. Paronto was at one point their brand ambassador but has moved on to other endeavors.
American Defense Structures branched out from safe rooms and into security doors and then security films, the latter of which Fair now calls the company’s flagship product.
Lauren Fair, Mike Keena and David Fair work at American Defense Structures in the Airpark.
(Dennis Murphy/Contributor)
Professionally installed to the inside of customers’ windows, the optically clear laminates offer varying levels of strength, depending on the customer’s safety needs.
Level I can withstand an intruder with a weapon such as a bat or rock, whereas the stronger Level II can stand up to more determined aggressors or even a bomb blast and the final Level III can sustain multiple small arms hits, according to its website. Level III is unidirectionally bullet resistant, allowing rounds to be shot out but not in — though it’s not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
All three levels protect against severe weather, are chemical resistant and feature energy-saving properties. Tinting is also available and would provide additional energy savings.
“The thing is safe rooms take a long time to build,” Fair admits, adding, “The doors take anywhere from 90 to 120 days to build. I mean, it is just that busy that everything’s backed up — and of course COVID didn’t help anything.
“But with the film, we can start protecting somebody’s home or business within a week, depending on our schedule. The film is readily available, and we use a proprietary film that, as you can see, stops bullets,” he continues, gesturing to a bullet-ridden sheet of glass.
For customers who have extra need, however, American Defense Structures designs security doors that can withstand most common weapons and are impervious to nonballistic objects, according to its website. They come pre-hung in steel frames and have passed the Department of Defense’s 15-minute breach test, meaning they can sustain the attack of several highly trained armed individuals for at least 15 minutes.
“Between the door and the hinges, no one’s getting through,” Keena says. “No one’s shooting through it, nobody’s breaking it down — no one’s getting through it. And the cool thing about the doors is we can make those doors look like any way you want it to. … Nobody would even know that it’s a ballistic door. It would just look like a nice, expensive door.”
The safe rooms — or even underground bunkers — come into play for customers needing a maximum level of security. With security consultation, they can be fully customized to protect customers from intruders or even large-scale disasters.
Features, as outlined on the company’s website, can include ballistic and blast wall and ceiling panels; security doors and
Aside from selling safe rooms, security doors and security film, the company offers self-defense and situational awareness courses with expert instruction.
concealed passageways; nuclear, biological and chemical air filtration; surveillance and communication systems; and even necessities for those preparing for long-term survival, like a backup power generator and lighting as well as access to food, water and more.
The overarching idea behind American Defense Structures is saving lives, and the company covers all bases by approaching all it does through the idea of “defense in depth” — essentially to identify the threat; retreat behind whatever level of protection is available, such as a security film, security door or safe room; and, if it comes down to it, be able to defend oneself.
For situations in which foresight or even some physical defense are required, American Defense Structures has recruited the support of instructors Steve Tarani, a former CIA employee, and Tom Rovetuso, formerly of the Lake County, Illinois, Sheriff’s Office. Course categories range from situational awareness and less-lethal defense to nonballistic weapons use and even ballistic weapons use.
“The main thing is 15 minutes — that’s the magic number. That’s why they had the 15-minute breach test; so if you dial 911, typically the first responders will be there in 15 minutes,” Keena explains, calling defense with ballistic weapons a last resort.
“So all these products are designed for you to dial 911 and then stay safe until the first responders show up. And that’s the nutshell of defense in depth.”
CEO David Fair founded American Defense Structures in 2018.
(Dennis Murphy/Contributor)
Mike “Magic” Keena is the company’s chief information officer.
Pedaling into Scottsdale
Erik’s Electric Bikes makes West Coast debut
By Alex Gallagher
Erik Saltvold has only had two jobs in his life: delivering newspapers by bike and working on bikes.
He originally began repairing bicycles in his backyard in 1977, and he eventually graduated to a storefront.
Before he knew it, his business multiplied and he stretched from his native Minnesota to storefronts from Illinois to Kansas and, now, Scottsdale.
“I just really enjoy being around cycling, and so we continued to reinvest in the business and to grow it organically,” Saltvold says. “A lot of people from Midwest markets spend part of their year down there, so we felt that there was a large customer base that provided opportunities to ride the bikes in the Phoenix area. We figured this would be a good move for us to expand our reach.”
Saltvold had been looking to expand into Scottsdale for years. In December 2021, he moved west after acquiring the space of a former mattress store on Scottsdale Road near Thunderbird Road.
“We looked at a number of locations throughout Scottsdale, but our preference was to be on Scottsdale Road,” Saltvold says.
“We wanted to be in an area with the best visibility to the market. We selected a location that was central, easy for people to get to, and had an area to ride right in front of the store. The store felt like a good spot for us.”
With his spot secured, Saltvold recruited a former employee, Andrew Stinson, to serve as the general manager of his newest store.
“It’s an exciting job, and I did enjoy working with Erik’s and working directly with people,” Stinson says.
With Stinson on board, Erik’s Electric Bikes opened in Scottsdale on July 2 and has already made its mark.
The store’s stock range from bikes for
casual riding to mountain trekking and distance riding. Some can reach speeds of up to 28 miles per hour.
“We carry bikes that conform to the industry standards in terms of maximum speed, but they work like any mountain bike, so it only goes as fast as you pedal but with an assist. It’s like somebody riding along,” Saltvold says.
Despite having an electric assist, the bikes require similar maintenance as a pedal bike. Removable batteries can be charged in homes.
“Maintenance is pretty much the same as any other bike where you have to check the chain and have it checked up once a year,” Stinson says. “Each bike will come with a charger specific to that model of bike, and most will even allow you to remove the batteries so you can park the bike in the garage and take the battery indoors where it’s not 150 degrees Fahrenheit.”
Once customers purchase a new ride,
Stinson has a few recommended riding spots.
“The canal path is a fantastic, awesome ride. I also like to do mountain biking, and I’m a big fan of McDowell Mountain because it’s a faster, smoother trail,” Stinson says. “But if you are still a little adventurous and if you like to do road riding, I also like to ride around the McDowell area just because you get these long open roads that offer good hill climbing.”
With a store stocked full of bikes to serve all needs, Stinson is eager to watch the rubber hit the road and see customers flash a childlike grin as they speed off.
“I hope the experience is what usually happens when they come back and they’re just all smiles,” he says.
Erik’s Electric Bikes 14224 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 602-422-8430 eriksbikeshop.com
Erik’s Electric Bikes general manager Andrew Stinson was called upon to come back to the company when it opened its Scottsdale store on July 2.
(David Minton/Staff Photographer)
REMEMBER When
Born in 2003-2004?
Frame of reference matters at polls, career, college
By Joan Fudala
Eighteen years may not seem significant in the universe’s history (e.g., the recent Webb telescope images dating back billions of years).
However, for 18-year-olds heading to the polls, to college or starting jobs this year, their frame of reference of growing up in Scottsdale matters.
Taking inspiration from the former Beloit College, Wisconsin, Mindset lists (now compiled by Marist College, New York), here are some of the life experiences first-time voters, recent high school grads and new employees carry with them.
Born in 2003 and 2004, this generation, often called “Gen Z,” has experienced many Scottsdale milestones, or missed some altogether:
• Scottsdale has always had a population of over 200,000 people. They were born during the Mayor Mary Manross era and grew up during Mayor Jim Lane’s 12-year tenure. They graduated from high school with David Ortega as mayor of Scottsdale. To them, “Drinkwater” is the name of an Old Town street, not a former beloved mayor (1980-96).
• There’s always been a Loop 101
Pima Freeway (completed through Scottsdale in 2002).
• There’s always been a McDowell Sonoran Preserve (established in 1994), but it has grown during their lifetime to over 30,000 acres, with trailheads and trails built since their birth in 2004 (when voters passed a ballot issue that funded preserve infrastructure).
• There’s always been a Martin Luther King Jr. holiday in Arizona (passed by voters in 1992); however, Juneteenth is a new (official holiday in 2021).
• They never got to hang out at Los Arcos Mall (closed in 1999) but have watched SkySong The ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center revitalize the McDowell Corridor (since 2007).
• Fiesta Bowl headquarters and museum have been on the Scottsdale Waterfront for nearly this generation’s lifetime.
• There has always been a 125-foot Frank Lloyd Wright-designed illuminated spire on the southeast corner of Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard (2004).
• They were too young to realize that Rural Metro provided the city’s fire protection, 1951-2005; they’ve grown up with the in-house Scottsdale Fire Department since it began in July 2005.
• They’ve always met friends at the Ice Den (1997), the Wedge Skate Park at Eldorado Park (1996), for selfies at the LOVE sculpture (2002), Knowasis Teen Learning Center at Civic Center Library (2006), Cine Capri at Scottsdale 101 (2003) and multiple Starbucks locations (as of 1996 in Scottsdale), but never at Rawhide (moved out of Scottsdale in 2005).
• The Phoenix mountain peak and freeway have always been named in honor of Iraq War casualty Lori Piestewa (versus its former, culturally incorrect term).
• There have always been Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations (1992), and nearly always a smoking ban inside public places (May 2007 in Arizona).
The Frank Lloyd Wright Spire arose at The Promenade in 2004. (Joan Fudala/ Contributor)
The Ice Den on Bell Road opened in 1998.
REMEMBER When
• The Scottsdale Galleria has always been a successful corporate offi ce center, not a short-lived shopping mall or so-called “vacant white elephant.”
• City council meetings have always been streamed live on the city’s website. (However, did youth ever opt to watch meetings versus Netflix or other streaming services?)
• Several popular institutions have come
The Loop 101/Pima Freeway was completed through Scottsdale in spring 2002.
Robert Indiana’s LOVE sculpture became an iconic “selfie spot” on Civic Center Mall in 2002.
and gone in 18 years — Theatre 4301 and the Scottsdale Culinary Institute dining room at the Galleria; a reprised Trader Vic’s at the Hotel Valley Ho; Barney’s at Scottsdale Fashion Square; Pink Taco at the Scottsdale Waterfront; a gigantic American flag on an event tent at WestWorld.
• The Scottsdale Waterfront and Southbridge on the Arizona Canal in Old Town Scottsdale came about when they were
preschoolers (2006-07).
• They’ve always shopped at Scottsdale 101, the Shops at Gainey Ranch, The Promenade and Kierland Commons; are the third generation to shop at Scottsdale Fashion Square (1961); and were the first generation to shop at Scottsdale Quarter (2009).
• They’ve always attended games of four major league sports teams in metro
8/31/2022
8/31/2022
REMEMBER When
Phoenix, plus the Phoenix Mercury WNBA (1997), Waste Management Phoenix Open at TPC (1987), Barrett-Jackson at WestWorld (1989), San Francisco Giants’ Spring Training games at Scottsdale Stadium (1982), and Cactus League games of 14 other MLB teams in the Valley. They can also now attend FC Rising soccer matches.
• Their “hippie generation” grandparents are still in awe marijuana is legal in Arizona and several other states.
• As Scottsdale’s Gen Z was born in 2004, voters rejected a ballot issue that would have created voting/council districts in Scottsdale; 18 years later, it’s being debated again.
• There have always been active shooter drills at school, locally and nationally (since Columbine in 1999).
• Occurring two to three years before they were born, 9/11 is a historical factoid; they’ve always been screened by the TSA before flying; they’ve always had their bags and purses searched before entering big events; there has always been a Department of Homeland Security (2003).
• They’ve always been able to video chat with friends and grandparents (since Skype began in 2003 and Zoom in 2011), shop online via Amazon or other e-tailers,
Salt River Fields, Spring Training home to the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies, opened in 2011 on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.
text, and connect via social media (Facebook launched in 2004; Twitter in 2006); what’s “snail mail”?
• They’ve continuously upgraded their tech gadgets, like to iPhone (2007), iPad (2010), and turn to Siri (2011) or Alexa (2014) for help with just about everything.
What’s a paper map?
• Scottsdale’s area code has always been “480” (1999); there’s always been a national Do Not Call list (2003).
• They have to “Google” terms like Y2K, wardrobe malfunction, flashbulbs, rotary dial, switchboard, “Wallace & Ladmo,”
Abu Ghraib, WMD and Watergate to find their meaning.
• They’ve grown up in the “gig” and “sharing” economy, able to use (by themselves or with their parents) Airbnb (2008), Uber (2009) and Lyft (2012).
• They’ll remember some of the big headlines of their high school years, like climate change, Black Lives Matter, mass shootings, opioid epidemic, cryptocurrency, 2020 election controversies, Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, COVID-19, the toilet paper crisis, delayed Tokyo Olympics, Phoenix Suns “almost championships,” virtual classes on Zoom during COVID-19, private space launches.
• In 2004, their parents were likely discussing the package bomb incident that injured three city of Scottsdale employees, wondering where the rock burglar would strike next, and protesting a proposal to turn the Coronado Golf Course into a spring training practice facility (didn’t happen).
• In Scottsdale, today’s 18-year-olds have seen the opening of the CAP Basin Sports Complex and its soccer fields (2006), McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center (2007), HonorHealth hospital at Thompson Peak (2007), Appaloosa Library (2009), Salt River Fields (2010), the model railroad building at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park (2011), OdySea and Butterfly Wonderland (2013) and other attractions at Arizona Boardwalk on the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community (2000s), Scottsdale’s Museum of the West (2015) and the complete rebuild of the Scottsdale Airport terminal (2018).
• Just like their grandparents — and even some great-grandparents — they’ve continued to enjoy Scottsdale area classics like the Sugar Bowl, Parada del Sol parade and rodeo, Los Olivos, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, Poisoned Pen Bookstore, Harkins Theatres, selfies in front of the Cowboy Sign at Scottsdale Road and Main Street, the Phoenix Zoo, fishing at Chaparral Lake, and cool dips in backyard or municipal pools during hot summer days. These items not only put the mindset of 18-year-olds into a historic context but also apply to the thousands of Scottsdale area residents who have moved here since 2003-04. As our customers, neighbors, family members, friends, students, work colleagues, visitors, fellow committee members and voters with whom we interact, it’s interesting to remember these more recent milestones that put their attitudes and actions into perspective.
REMEMBER When
Generations of Scottsdale residents and visitors have enjoyed the Sugar Bowl in Old Town Scottsdale since 1958.
In 2005, a huge U.S. flag adorned a new event tent at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
SkySong ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center replaced Los Arcos Mall on the southeast corner of McDowell and Scottsdale roads in 2006-07.
ADVICE fromWeiss
AUGUST 2022 Business Horoscopes
By Weiss Kelly, PMAFA
ARIES 3/21-4/20
Jupiter has slowed down, limiting some opportunities with the full moon on the 12th. The next three weeks are best for reconsidering or rearranging personal and work-related goals. You should have a new game plan by the 26th and 27th, but rising costs shouldn’t stop you from taking a few mini getaways between the 20th and the 31st. Personal power days: August 15 and August 16.
TAURUS 4/21-5/20
Unpredictable real estate, housing and interest rates will continue to take Taurus on a personal- and economic-related roller coaster ride well into late October. Expect to make some gains and realize several successful attempts between August 4 and the end of the month. Personal power days: August 17, August 18 and August 19.
GEMINI 5/21-6/21
Your ability to adapt will come in handy in the weeks and months ahead. Pay attention to the day-to-day changes in your professional life from August 20 and August 31. Small businesses are merging together, and corporations are being questioned; it’s a changing marketing landscape, and we are being informed with Mercury in Virgo. The new moon on the 27th has you taking action and discovering new resources. Personal power days: August 20 and August 21.
CANCER 6/22-7/22
With early August’s flux of developments, your sense of financial stability from August 1 to August 20 will be a main concern. Late August takes on a lighter approach, inspiring the desire to learn something new. There is a lot of news out there; make note of the week between August 22 and August 31. Mars in the sign of Gemini will act as a “News Nation” for months to come. Personal power days: August 22, August 23 and August 24.
LEO 7/23-8/22
Despite some drama around the first 13 days of the month, you will do very well both at work and in your personal life from August
13 to August 31. Your focus will turn toward finances by August 23. Budgets and financial projects might require adjustments. Personal power days: August 25 and August 26.
VIRGO
8/23-9/22
You can accomplish more by working on your own, including taking some personal time. Look to this month’s full moon on August 12 to complete a project or make a final decision of sorts. Late in the month allows more focus on yourself and personal reinvention. You can begin to move forward by the middle of the month, in spite of some political and economic developments that are out of your control. Personal power days: August 27 and August 28.
LIBRA 9/23-10/23
One may be talented and have the right requirements, but the ability to be diplomatic is a necessity to success. Expect large-scale compromises with some current issues in your life. It's a great month to create and attempt something new. Take time off for socializing or networking around August 13 or August 26. As the month comes to a close and the Sun moves into Virgo, you’ll notice a positive shift in your personal relationships. Personal power days: August 2, August 3, August 29 and August 30.
SCORPIO
10/24-11/21
Your natural state of fixity may not come in handy this month. Any serious conflicts will remain unclear at the beginning of August, as several power struggles may arise between Taurus and Scorpio. Utilize the next three weeks for a bit reconsidering and adapting. Hold off on making any rash or untimely decisions. However, you will find new solutions after the new moon on August 27. Personal power days: August 3, August 4 and August 5.
SAGITTARIUS
11/22-12/21
Like the other two fire signs (Aries and Leo), you won’t have a bad month except for some limitations or last-minute travel snafus. Pay attention to details or plan ahead for any upcoming travel commitments. As gas, lodging, and costs in general continue to increase, it might be
best to skip the traveling altogether if possible. More conservative-thinking Sags should get ready for a long cycle of social interacting around the new moon on August 27. Personal power days: August 7 and August 8.
CAPRICORN
12/22-1/19
August may be the last of the fun summer months of 2022 to enjoy getting together with family or friends or to rid yourself of any workrelated baggage. Enjoy some personal time off between August 1 and August 12 before world or domestic crises force their way into our work lives and daily plans. Catch up on pending commitments, and follow up on personal promises. As the corporate world shifts gifts, small businesses are gaining support. Mercury, the planet of communication, enters into Gemini on August 20, bringing progressive movement in your personal relationships. Personal power days: August 9 and August 10.
AQUARIUS 1/20-2/18
August will spark your humanitarian side; lean into those feelings of giving back to others. Get ready for some high global energy and a time of transformation. August will bring large-scale personal growth; however, don’t make any rash moves regarding your work or personal relationship while Saturn is in your sign. The planets are standing firm until the spring, so relax and enjoy some time off. Personal power days: August 11 and August 12.
PISCES 2/19-3/20
What’s happening in your work and potential career future is met with controversy and confusion. Medical professionals are under extreme pressure this month. Don’t overlook an opportunity to switch gears or acquire new work tools. This month is not quiet; it is demanding. It will be a heat wave in many ways, but it might be necessary to get you out of your comfort zone. The good news is the new moon on August 27 will bring new new relationships in a favorable way! Personal power days: August 13 and August 14.
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