Valley Lifestyles August 2015

V VALLEY LIFEST YLES

MAGAZINE

PLUS GILBERT’S LINDSEY STIRLING’S RISE TO STARDOM

Lawyer Up! THE BEST VALLEY ATTORNEYS

AUGUST 2015

ValleyLifestyles.com

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Women’s Hair Loss Why Does it Happen? & What can you do about it?

What used to be a “men’s condition” is now quickly becoming a female epidemic.

It is scary to think that you could randomly wake up one day and begin to see more hair on the pillow case and less on your head. For women losing their hair, it is a serious blow to femininity and the ideal vision of themselves. We are constantly cutting and coloring to make sure our hair looks the best it can. But what if one day the un-thinkable happens… and it falls out and doesn’t grow back?

1

Question: What causes women’s hair loss?

Answer: Female hair loss can be

caused by multiple factors, but the most common cause is an underlying genetic pre-disposition to hair loss known as androgenetic alopecia or female pattern hair loss. Unlike the popular myth that you inherit hair loss from your mother’s father, women can inherit hair loss from either side of the family. This means that women can inherit hair loss from men and vice versa. It is much more common than people know.

There are other factors that can cause hair loss or increase hair loss due to family history. They include stress, lifestyle, diet, thyroid disfunction, fungal infections, scalp parasites, and medications (most common hormone replacement and birth control pills).

2

Question: What do your clinics use to help women with thinning hair?

Answer: Depending on the reason for the loss, the treatment protocol will vary. Usually though for common female pattern hair loss the protocol is relatively similar. We a have a 9 month program that includes twice weekly office visits for cool light laser treatments for the scalp. This stimulates cell regeneration and is already approved to promote thicker hair. Our program also includes topical pharmaceuticals, hormone therapy balancing cream, nutritional supplementation, holistic hair care products, and topical scalp serums.

This is most aggressive treatment that we offer, but it works. When you use everything together the way that our program does, you are bound to get results.

3

Question: What advice would you give a woman who is dealing with this problem?

Answer: Find the source of the problem as quickly as possible and treat that problem. Don’t try to treat it yourself because it wastes time that could be spent growing hair back. I obviously would recommend to call us and then come in for a consultation. Worst case scenario, you can stop the progression of the loss. Best case, we can dramatically reverse your hair loss and regrow hair.

We have had numerous cases where a woman was wearing a wig or extensions when they started the treatment. Then 9 months later they were able to remove their wig permanently or stop getting extensions because their hair had gained so much volume and density.

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Question: Is there hope for women with thinning hair?

How do you control it?

Answer: There certainly is. There are

so many tools that can be used to control female hair loss and reverse it in many cases. Once you have established the reason for the hair loss and it can be treated with a variety of methods. Unfortunately, most general physicians simply don’t have the time or the knowledge to get a full understanding of why a woman is losing her hair. The female patient is then left combing the internet for solutions that rarely leads to any real answer.

5

Question: How you do know what is causing your hair loss?

Answer: A simple patient history is the easiest way. Many women have blood tests for hormonal issues, thyroid dysfunction, iron levels, and vitamin D deficiency. Unfortunately this rarely produces any other cause other than normal pattern hair loss.

At our clinics we use a video microscope to analyze the condition of the scalp at 50x magnification. At this level we can tell if the client has loss due to stress, diet, infection of the hair follicle, or simple hormonally related hair loss.

6

Question: Is there maintenance required?

Answer: 99% yes. I usually tell people it’s like brushing your teeth. If you don’t brush them and go to the dentist, your teeth will rot and fall out. The same goes for your hair. If you have a genetic hair loss problem, you have two options; oneyou can treat the problem long term, or two- let your hair fall out and go bald. Clearly our clients choose hair.

4450 South Rural Rd. Bldg C. Suite 222 Tempe, AZ 85282

480-222-HAIR(4247) www.hairgrowthcenters.com

WILLIAM GAUNITZ, WTS

CEO of Evolution Hair Loss Institute

KELLY NIPPER, WTS Certified Clinical Trichologist

PUBLISHER

Steve T. Strickbine EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Christina Caldwell

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Breanne DeMore ART DIRECTOR

Dara Fowler

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alexa D'Angelo, Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, Julie Lemerond, Jasmine Kemper

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ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Sheree Kamenetsky EDITORIAL INQUIRIES ccaldwell@valleylifestyles.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Sam Nalven DISTRIBUTION SERVICES AZ Integrated Media EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING OFFICES

Valley Lifestyles Magazine 3200 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 210 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Phone: (480) 348-0343 Comments: ccaldwell@valleylifestyles.com www.valleylifestyles.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the Times Media Group. Photographs, graphics and artwork are the property of Valley Lifestyles Magazine. © Affluent Publishing LLC.

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Times Media Group sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner.

Valley Lifestyles Magazine is printed by American Web on recycled paper fibers with inks containing a blend of soy base. Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and additionally meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards.

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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august

FEATURES 26

THE VALLEY’S TOP LAWYERS

Finding the right lawyer for your case can be a nervewracking feat, but we’ve pinned down the very best of the best. We’ve teamed up with Avvo—a leading company that helps consumers make better legal decisions—to bring you the top attorneys in the Valley.

By Valley Lifestyles Staff

34

HOP ON BOARD!

This month Valley Metro will open the latest extension to the light rail line, right in the heart of Downtown Mesa. Whether you need to get to a hot arts event or you just want to do some serious boutique shopping, our guide to the best businesses along the line will open up a whole new world to your East Valley cultural experience.

By Valley Lifestyles Staff

40

IN THE MIST OF SUMMER

You can’t blame us for feeling a little dried out in the Valley this time of year. Writer Christina FuocoKarasinski soaked in the sun and ocean air of stunning, vibrant La Jolla, California, a San Diego neighborhood that offers peaceful reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the busy beach city.

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By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

26 34

GET YOUR FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE [ SNAP THE QR CODE ]

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DEPARTMENTS 10 FROM THE EDITOR 13 UPFRONT | 480

SHATTERED EXPECTATIONS

Gilbert’s Lindsey Stirling was expected to conform. No one thought it was possible for her to blend her two loves—violin and electronic music. Now a full-fledged music superstar, she’s out to prove the naysayers wrong, one chart-topping hit at a time.

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editor's letter

I’VE ALWAYS BEEN A LITTLE NAIVE.

When I was a kid, I took the “You can be anything you want to be” spiel from my parents a bit too literally. In a distinctly ‘90s moment, following that talk I asked my mom, “You mean I can be the next Amy Grant!?” She said yes, so I ran to my best friend’s house down the street (without shoes) to tell her I’d be the next Amy Grant.

Today I am not ‘90s Christian singer Amy Grant, but I did become the exact woman I wanted to be. In high school I decided I wanted to become a magazine editor. It’s a little surreal when I think about it. As I slowly realized I’d be deeply entrenched in a transforming and unsure future in journalism, it just made me work that much harder.

Was it dumb? Probably. Did it pay off? Well, I’m writing this note, aren’t I? It’s that sort of blind ambition that lets us achieve great things, even when the odds are stacked against us. Gilbert superstar Lindsey Stirling was told by many that she couldn’t blend her classical violin sound with electronic beats, most famously

by Piers Morgan on “America’s Got Talent.” But Stirling persevered, and now she’s winning awards over big electronic talent like Skrillex and Avicii, all because she stayed true to herself and her dream. Be inspired by the full interview on P. 13.

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

This being our Top Lawyers issue, I can’t help but think the attorneys in these pages followed their own hearts to being high-powered win machines.

Cover guy Lawrence Lazzara, for instance, received a long list of accolades by the time he was 25, but the goal was never the glamour—it was the feeling he gets from a win.

When you love your work and you’re entrenched in it, it’s difficult to be impressed with yourself, but if you step back for a second, it’s really fun to see what you’ve accomplished by being blindly ambitious.

So while we tell our children that they can do anything, it’s important to tell ourselves we can do the same and lead by example. Big goals aren’t made reality by daydreams but a long path of small steps that lead to massive accomplishments.

It’s an important lesson to convey as school starts this month: Even when you’re in class filling your head with all of that knowledge, it’s OK to be a little naive.

Here’s to hoping you find your naivety,

CHRISTINA CALDWELL (AKA AMY GRANT 2.0) Executive Editor

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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UpFront 480 TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

SHATTERED EXPECTATIONS GILBERT’S LINDSEY STIRLING FOLLOWED HER 'NAIVETY' TO STARDOM

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI PHOTOS BY KATE SZATMARI AND ERIC RYAN ANDERSON

When a young Lindsey Stirling, growing up in Gilbert, shared that she wanted to meld the sound of her violin with electronic music, others tried to dissuade her.

But the 2005 Mesquite High School graduate soon learned that being different has been “a great thing.”

“When I started, I kept being told that I was too different and there wasn’t a market for what I was doing because it was too outside the box,” she says. “I found that what people thought would be my greatest demise is my greatest advocate. I’m the only one who’s doing what I’m doing and it’s worked out well.”

Thanks to her talents, 28-year-old Stirling has been included in Forbes' “30 Under 30 In Music: The Class Of 2015.” Her song with Halestorm’s Lzzy Hale, “Shatter Me,” hit No. 2 on The Billboard 200 album chart, and she has more than 6 million subscribers on YouTube.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

"I found that what people thought would be my greatest demise is my greatest advocate. I’m the only one who’s doing what I’m doing and it’s worked out well."

I was just excited about every little foot hole that I found— every bit. In a way, it was a blessing in disguise that I didn’t know what was ahead.”

Coming home

“I think it’s cool doing things the YouTube way,” she explains. “It allows you to become connected to the fans on a personal level. They feel like they’re part of my journey more so, rather than just relying on [a] label or [the] radio to make things happen for me. By watching my videos and sharing them, they’re a part of my story.”

Her list of accolades grew when she was given the Billboard Music Award for Top Dance/Electronic Album for “Shatter Me,” against such stiff competition as Avicii, Calvin Harris, Disclosure and Skrillex.

“It was very exciting,” Stirling says. “It was very exciting. I was nominated with some of my idols. I love Skrillex. He introduced me to dubstep in the first place. I love Calvin Harris. To be nominated with them was a huge honor. When I won I was so shocked and excited.”

Due to her busy schedule, she hasn’t had time to really cherish her award.

“I’ve been on tour ever since I got it,” she exclaims. “I had to send it home with my manager, but I’m definitely going to put it on my little mantle next to my bed. It’ll keep me motivated and excited.”

Following her dream

Stirling has always been fascinated with dance and violin. She told her parents she wanted both, but they said she had to choose one. Stirling chose the violin, but slowly incorporated dancing in her performance.

She explains that it’s “unnatural” to play violin and dance; it took a lot of practice to nail that part of her performance.

Pursuing a career in music since just after high school, Stirling says she’s glad that she went in with her eyes shut.

“I had no idea what was ahead,” Stirling explains. “I had no idea it was going to be an up and down journey. I was naïve as to how hard it would be. The naivety kept me excited and going. Every single step was a big and exciting step. Rather than just looking up to see how far the climb was,

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

Stirling will reunite with her family when she performs a hometown show at the Comerica Theatre in Phoenix on Thursday, August 13.

“I can’t wait to come back,” she says. “It’s so fun. I get to have my parents come and my friends come. There’s something special about going to your hometown and playing in front of friends, peers and family members.”

Performing in Phoenix or Provo, Utah, where she attended Brigham Young University, is stressful for Stirling.

“Whenever you have family or friends coming out, there’s definitely extra pressure. You want to do your best in front of the people you care about or people you love or love you.”

Stirling plans on indulging in the comforts of home while she’s in the Valley.

“I love to go to Café Rio,” she says with a giggle. “That’s one of my favorite places. I love to go home and go to my parents’ house. They still live in the house where I grew up. I love to sleep in my old bedroom, have my mom’s home cooking, play[ing] games. I get to see the family dog. I love that.”

Like the rest of her tour, her Phoenix show will include a premiere of the song “Firefly,” which will offer a surprise for fans.

“It’s really different,” she says. “I actually sing on it. I never sing. My fans have been asking me to sing for forever.

They wanted me to write a song that I can sing. I decided to give the people what they want.”

She admits that it was nerve-wracking.

“I was so nervous before the first show,” she says.

“Nobody’s expecting this. I never sing live. So it was definitely scary. My fans are so supportive, though. They cheer me on every single night when I sing. It’s cool.” VLM CATCH LINDSEY AT: Comerica Theatre 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix (800) 745-3000 comericatheatre.com Thursday, August 13

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

LOCAL

LOOK COMPILED BY BREANNE DEMORE

AVOID THE

MELTDOWN THE VIRAL MAKEUP TIP THAT KEEPS MAKEUP IN PLACE DURING SUMMER MONTHS BYCHRISTINA CALDWELL

If you’ve lived in the Valley for even one summer, you’ve grown accustomed to the 12 p.m. makeup meltdown. Come afternoon, your foundation, moisturizer and blush congeals into a makeup-like mask—far from the pretty art you concocted in the morning.

A viral makeup tutorial by makeup-and-skincare mastermind Wayne Goss might be the secret to avoiding the 12 p.m. blues. We’ve tested it and it works! Here’s how to get your makeup to stay in place, and achieve a smooth, flawless complexion in the process.

STEP 1: PREP

Put on your sunscreen (IT’S NECESSARY, PEOPLE!), moisturizer and primer, then allow them to absorb before moving onto the next (and most important) step.

STEP 2: POWDER

We know it sounds insane, but yes, your powder should go in before your foundation. Ideally it would be a loose, silica-based powder. Options for this include the budget brand e.l.f.’s Studio High Definition Powder, available for $6 at Target, or if you’re feeling spendy, Make Up Forever’s HD Microfinish Powder, available for $34 at Sephora. Both work roughly the same.

What you want to do here is buff a thin (and we mean thin!) layer of the translucent powder onto your skin. Your skin should not feel powdery, but it should look lightly matte.

STEP 3: FOUNDATION AND CONCEALER

Apply your foundation and concealer as normal. You might notice that you’ll need less product to achieve the same results.

Coverage and ease of application should increase, thanks to the silica-based powder.

STEP 4: POWDER AGAIN GET THIS LOOK: Grand Central Clothing 7131 W. Ray Rd., Suite 33, Chandler (480) 940-3498 divazboutique.com

Drier skin types might be able to skip this step altogether. Your foundation should dry glowwy, but not shiny. If you prefer a matte look or have oily skin, dust a tiny bit of the same powder onto your T-zone and anywhere else you get oily. Apply the rest of your makeup as normal. VLM See Wayne Goss muse about the method at: youtube.com/watch?v=EyQsVyGadbY

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

BACK TO SCHOOL

1.

Cool

Getting ready for back to school can either be the most wonderful time of year (if you are a parent) or the most dreaded time of year (if you are a kid). Regardless of your feelings on those first few weeks in August, everyone can agree half the fun of going back to school is getting all new gear to prepare for the year! While you are buying the typical pencils, paper and binders, think about these hot items that your child is bound to love, whether it’s for doing homework at home or stealing the spotlight at school.

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

MAKE THE

Cut

FIGURING OUT THE BEST HAIR CUT AND COLOR FOR YOUR FACE

BY BREANNE DEMORE

Every person on this planet has a different attitude about and relationship with their hair. However, as the team at Rolf’s, led by Rolf Lohse, will tell you—our hair is our most important accessory. You can change up your jewelry, bags and clothing, but you wear your hair every day. And, most importantly, it should highlight your best attributes.

So as we’re preparing our locks for the fall, we went over some hair-dos and don’ts with the team at Rolf’s Euro Salon in Mesa.

DON’T • . .. Ignore your face shape when picking a haircut. The key is to

always enhance the cheekbones and created a slimming effect.

So if your face is long, you’ll want something to highlight the cheekbones more. If your face is round, you’ll want something that slims it down.

• . .. Go to someone who isn’t a specialist. Your hair stylist is

there to educate you on what will look best on your face and how you can recreate the look at home. You’ll want someone who will be honest, knowledgeable and willing to explain every step to you.

• . .. Blindly follow trends. Every haircut and color should be

• . .. Change up your look seasonally. This is a great idea for

people who get bored of the same look but have found a great one. If you tend to want to follow the trends, there are subtle, seasonal changes that you can make that will satisfy that desire.

• . .. Use your hair as a tool to help you look and feel your

best! Find the right specialist—someone who will take the time and effort to explain everything to you and why something will look good. Your stylist should be educated and be able to offer you a variety of options. They are your hair and beauty doctor! VLM

as unique as the person sitting in the chair. Just because a celebrity can pull it off does not mean that you can—and that’s all right! The most important thing is that your hair enhances your beauty and then you can worry about how trendy it is.

DO • . .. Take everything into consideration. Your eye color,

complexion, and natural hair color should all be contributing factors into your chosen hair color.

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

HITTING ALL THE

RIGHT NOTES

BY CASEY BLAKE

Whether you know it or not, Downtown Mesa boasts a state-of-the-art, architecturally stunning arts and culture facility not unlike The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. or Lincoln Center in New York City.

Ten years after its 2005 opening, Mesa Arts Center is celebrating the milestone with a season full of unforgettable performances and remarkable special guests.

September kicks off with free social events to commemorate MAC’s tenth year, with Chicano art, social dancing, live music and jazz with one of the most prominent and accomplished musicians of today—trumpeter, composer, author and managing and artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Wynton Marsalis.

On Friday, September 11, the free, all-ages Season Kickoff Festival will take on the atmosphere of a Latin street party, with an outdoor performance by Chicano rock power trio Los Lonely Boys, lessons in Latin social dance from Ballet Hispanico, and new exhibitions in Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, including three that will showcase works from actor Cheech Marin’s collection of Chicano art. Festival goers will see custom low-rider cars and motorcycles on display, watch live street artists and live artist demonstrations on the campus Shadow Walk and enjoy delicious fair foods from local vendors.

Later in September, two NYC-based performance groups will set up shop at Mesa Arts Center for days of entertainment and outreach in the community.

Ballet Hispanico’s performances on September 16 and 18 will meld Latin roots with an eclectic, sleekly modern style, which garnered the company recognition as one “of the best contemporary ensembles” by The New York Times. The worldrenowned Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis is slated for a four-day residency at the arts center, with a free community talk focused on jazz and culture with Marsalis (September 24), an extremely rare and intimate performance of Marsalis with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (September 25), and the Arizona premiere of “Swing Symphony” with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Marsalis and special guest The Phoenix Symphony.

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

Where else can you cut a rug, bask in the talents of famous jazz musicians, contemplate great contemporary art and hang out with friends and family all at the same time? See you at Mesa Arts Center! VLM

KICK OFF ARTS SEASON IN STYLE: SEASON KICKOFF FESTIVAL MESA ARTS CENTER 1 E. Main St., Mesa (480) 644-6500 mesaartscenter.com Friday, September 11, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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TRENDS | PEOPLE | CULTURE | STYLE

NEED A BOOST? JUMP START YOUR METABOLISM WITH THESE FAT-BUSTING TIPS

BY JULIE LEMEROND

Does your metabolism need a kick start? Even when we eat healthy, work out and take care of ourselves, having the same routine can often lead to our bodies not feeling challenged to continue to grow and change.

Here are some tips to give your metabolism a jump start and get rid of those last five or ten pounds! Wherever you are in your journey to health, having an active metabolic rate is essential. It allows for a guilt-free indulgence from time to time, or lets your body continue to burn fat even when you are stuck at your desk all day.

Tip number one is to start out your day eating. Skipping a morning meal means your body is pulling from its reserves to get energy for you to go, go, go! Think of it as driving with a full tank of gas instead of it being nearly empty. The car just runs better and is prepared for whatever journey it might go on. Same goes for your temple—ahem—body.

But that also means eating the right kinds of food.

Obviously eating donuts, ice cream, pizza and whatever else you crave is not going to get your metabolism up to speed, but there are a handful of options that will help turn your metabolic rate into Speedy Gonzalez.

GREEN TEA

If you’ve been thinking of kicking your coffee to the curb, try replacing it with green tea. You’ll still get your caffeine fix and it is full of heart-healthy antioxidants.

GINGER

Not just a metabolism booster, but great for digestion, too! Add a little to your smoothie or juice and your tummy will thank you!

CITRUS FRUITS

Consider adding a whole grapefruit or even an orange to your breakfast routine. Eating the actual fruit instead of just drinking the juice will add fiber and help you feel full longer, in addition to getting your metabolism in check.

SPICE THINGS UP

Add cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or even black pepper to salads, smoothies and recipes when appropriate.

SLEEP

Skimping on sleep can pack on pounds, simply because we don’t allow our bodies the time it needs to regenerate itself. Some people are fine with six hours, while others need eight or more.

Next time you have several days in a row where you don’t need the alarm clock to wake up, note how long your body sleeps before it naturally wakes itself up. This will help you find a set point for how many hours your body ideally needs for sleep each night.

STRENGTH TRAINING

Don’t neglect it! Strength training is crucial to kick starting your metabolism. Start building more muscle and the fat burns easily.

Muscle burns approximately eight times as many calories as fat, so this is imperative to rev up the metabolism. If you already do a good amount of cardio, step it up a notch. Increase your pace or lengthen your time, and notice the results as they begin to emerge! VLM

FIND JULIE: on the web at julielemerond.com 24

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

NEW OWNER - Jenny Sylvester

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Visit our website for products and more information

www.mesa.floorstogo.com or call us at: 480.396.6956

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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LAWYER UP!

BY VALLEY LIFESTYLES STAFF

When you find yourself in need of a lawyer, it can be difficult to know where to turn.

You want to make sure your money is spent wisely and you get the outcome you deserve in court. Luckily, we’re on your side.

We’ve teamed up with Avvo––a leading company that helps consumers make better legal decisions––to bring you the top attorneys in the Valley.

Avvo is a Seattle-based company that helps consumers make better legal decisions by offering free Q&A forums, backed by ratings and profiles for 90 percent of the lawyers in the country. They have teamed with us to present this list of the top lawyers in the Phoenix area. Lawyers are ranked based on their professional backgrounds, according to Avvo’s proprietary algorithms. The Avvo Rating is a score on a 10-point scale distilled from the raw rankings it generated. These ratings and rankings were calculated as of June 9.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE Michael Munoz / FIRM: Munoz Law Office, PC 2039 S. Mill Ave., Suite A, Tempe, 85282 PHONE: (480) 447-1100 / WEBSITE: phxcriminaldefense.com, fightduiarizona.com Michael Munoz is a former Major Crimes Prosecutor at the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. His practice is solely focused on Criminal and DUI Defense. We are committed to aggressively defending those who have been accused of committing a crime. Read our reviews online and call for a consultation.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Keith R. Nelson / FIRM: Riggs Ellsworth & Porter Law 21321 E. Ocotillo Rd., Building F, Suite 113, Queen Creek, 85142 PHONE: (480) 779-4488 / WEBSITE: riggslaw.com Keith R. Nelson is an associate attorney with Riggs Ellsworth & Porter. His office is located in Queen Creek. Keith practices primarily in the fields of criminal defense (misdemeanor and felony), DUI/DWI, plaintiff’s personal injury, wrongful death, dog bite/attack, and medical negligence. With two convenient locations in the East Valley—Mesa and Queen Creek—we proudly continue three generations of legal dedication in Arizona.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Alex H. Lane / FIRM: Stewart & Lane, PLC 777 E. Thomas Rd., Suite 210, Phoenix, 85014 PHONE: (480) 776-5757 / WEBSITE: alexlanelaw.com “I’m committed to getting the best results possible for my clients through either a trial or negotiated settlement. And I am also deeply committed to [trying] to handle every aspect of a case so my clients can stay focused on their lives.”

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

FAMILY LAW Aubrey Srednicki, Esq. / FIRM: Law Office of Aubrey Srednicki, PLLC 15115 N. Airport Dr., Suite 3B, Scottsdale, 85260 PHONE: (480) 442-9529 / WEBSITE: 4azlaw.com Attorney Aubrey Srednicki strives to provide compassionate, reliable, professional and accessible family law legal counsel. As a skilled and knowledgeable litigator, Aubrey also has the unique ability to effectively and amicably negotiate a beneficial settlement where appropriate.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Buescher Law Group, PLLC / PHONE: (480) 344-1802 / WEBSITE: buescherlaw.com At Buescher Law Group we love what we do—every day! Most attorneys cannot say that about their practice area—especially family law attorneys. Our goal is to assist our clients to get through the worst time in their life as unscathed as possible. We offer a unique blend of a sympathetic ear and a fierce presence in the courtroom. If you or a loved one is in need of assistance to handle a family law matter, please give us a call. We are here to listen, learn and resolve your matter.

ATTORNEY:

Jan M. Buescher, Esq. /

FIRM:

ADDRESS: 3515 N. Power Rd., Suite 103, Mesa, 85215

Greg R. Davis / FIRM: Davis Faas Blase, PLLC 11111 N. Scottsdale Rd. Suite 225, Scottsdale, 85254 PHONE: (602) 279-1900 / WEBSITE: dfblawyers.com Greg R. Davis is a seasoned family and business lawyer who emphasizes effective and efficient resolutions of his clients' disputes. In doing so, he provides his clients with insights into all of their legal options, including negotiations, alternative dispute resolution strategies and trial.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

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Paul C. Riggs / FIRM: Riggs Ellsworth & Porter 1423 S. Higley Rd., Suite 113, Mesa, 85206 / PHONE: (480) 539-9400 / WEBSITE: riggslaw.com “I help the best people in their most difficult times.” Paul C. Riggs is a senior partner with Riggs Ellsworth & Porter. His office is in Mesa, however, he handles cases throughout Maricopa and Pinal County. Paul practices exclusively in the area of family law, which includes matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, visitation and legal separation. He has over 20 years of experience. Riggs Ellsworth & Porter Law firm delivers aggressive and skilled representation while also providing compassionate legal counsel to our clients.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Nicole D. Siqueiros-Stoutner / FIRM: Rader Lucero PLLC 11010 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite D-102, Phoenix, 85028 PHONE: (480) 636-1888 / WEBSITE: raderlucero.com Nicole D. Siqueiros-Stoutner and the team of experienced law attorneys at Rader Lucero PLLC provide individual attention and quality legal representation.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

DeShon Pullen / FIRM: DeShon Laraye Pullen PLC 4110 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 140, Scottsdale, 85251 PHONE: (480) 524-1540 / WEBSITE: deshonpullenlaw.com “We at DeShon Laraye Pullen PLC know the impact that family law matters have on individuals and their families. We build strong relationships with every client and create an individually tailored strategy to help each client achieve his or her goals.”

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Rebecca L. Owen / FIRM: Rebecca L. Owen, PLLC 301 E. Bethany Home Rd., Suite A-200, Phoenix, 85012 PHONE: (602) 264-3309 / WEBSITE: arizona-divorcelawyer.com Rebecca L. Owen has focused only on family law since 1998 and her clients’ satisfaction is always top priority.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

PERSONAL INJURY Lawrence Lazzara / FIRM: Parker & Lazzara 1490 S. Price Rd., Suite 319, Chandler, 85286 PHONE: (480) 456-3080 / WEBSITE: parkerandlazzara.com Small firm, big results. Bringing honesty, integrity and class to the practice of law. Honest, ethical and aggressive!

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Marc H. Lamber / FIRM: Lamber|Goodnow 2394 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 600, Phoenix, 85016 PHONE: (602) 274-9662 / WEBSITE: lambergoodnow.com Marc Lamber founded the personal injury practice at Lamber|Goodnow 25 years ago. He was recently featured on the cover of AZ Business Magazine’s March/April 2015 issue as one of the “Top Lawyers” in Arizona. Lamber was named a “Litigation Star” by Benchmark Litigation. He and his cases have been covered

by CNN, MSNBC, CBS Evening News and more.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

from pain

Let us help At Desert Women’s Care, Dr. Richard Demir specializes in helping women cure their chronic pelvic pain. Dr. Demir and his team run a thorough set of tests to find the root cause of the pain, be it gynecologic, urologic, gastrointestinal or even psychiatric.

The team at Desert Women’s Care assesses all possibilities to find the correct diagnosis and implement the most effective treatment plan.

DESERT WOMEN’S CARE

(855) OBGYN AZ

www.DesertWomensCare.com two convenient locations: 80 N. McClintock Dr, Suite 104 Chandler, 85226 9377 E. Bell Road, Suite 131 Scottsdale, 85260

Mark P. Breyer / FIRM: Breyer Law Offices, PC 3840 E. Ray Rd., Phoenix, 85044 / PHONE: (480) 588-8508 / WEBSITE: breyerlaw.com Bringing a unique combination of legal results and emphasis on providing the highest client service for those who have suffered life-altering injuries.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Alexis Saphire Breyer / FIRM: Breyer Law Offices, PC 3840 E. Ray Rd., Phoenix, 85044 PHONE: (480) 588-8508 / WEBSITE: breyerlaw.com The husband and wife law team at Breyer Law Offices focuses on achieving the best results and providing the best client service for those individuals who have been seriously injured or families who have lost a loved one due to the negligence of a third party.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

James Goodnow / FIRM: Lamber|Goodnow 2394 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 600, Phoenix, 85016 PHONE: (602) 274-9662 / WEBSITE: lambergoodnow.com James Goodnow handles catastrophic injury and wrongful death matters. He is a Harvard Law grad and a Phoenix native. Goodnow was named a “Top 10 Attorney in Arizona” by the American Institute of PI Attorneys. He regularly appears in the media, including appearances on CNN, Good Morning America and more.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Gary A. Porter / FIRM: Riggs Ellsworth & Porter Law 1423 S. Higley Rd., Suite 113, Mesa, 85206 / PHONE: (480) 539-9400 / WEBSITE: riggslaw.com “When you are up against an insurance company, we level the playing field.” Gary A. Porter is a senior partner with Riggs Ellsworth & Porter. His office is in Mesa, however, he handles cases throughout Arizona. Gary practices primarily in the areas of personal injury, wrongful death, dog bite/attack, social security disability and medical negligence. He has over 17 years of experience. Riggs Ellsworth & Porter Law’s knowledge and experience effectively guides you through the legal areas of family, personal injury and criminal law.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

DUI Alex H. Lane / FIRM: Stewart & Lane, PLC 777 E. Thomas Rd., Suite 210, Phoenix, 85014 / PHONE: (480) 776-5757 / WEBSITE: alexlanelaw.com “I’m committed to getting the best results possible for my clients through either a trial or negotiated settlement. And I am also deeply committed to [trying] to handle every aspect of a case so my clients can stay focused on their lives.”

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

Paul A. Ramos / FIRM: Ramos Law Firm 14500 N. Northsight Blvd., Suite 229, Scottsdale, 85260 PHONE: (480) 247-8558 / WEBSITE: ramosduilaw.com Paul A. Ramos is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist through the Arizona Board of Legal Specialization, State Bar of Arizona and is also a member of and currently chairs the Criminal Law Advisory Committee.

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT Michael R. King / FIRM: Gammage & Burnham 2 N. Central Ave., 15th Floor, Phoenix, 85004 / PHONE: (480) 256-4405 / “World Class Counsel. Arizona Roots.” VLM

ATTORNEY: ADDRESS:

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WEBSITE:

gblaw.com

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RESULTS, PLAIN and SIMPLE ATTORNEY LAWRENCE LAZZARA JUST WANTS TO WIN

BY VALLEY LIFESTYLES STAFF

Chandler lawyer Lawrence “Larry” Lazzara has always been a bit of an overachiever.

While attending New York School of Law, Lazzara collected a long list of accomplishments, including three certificates of achievement and top spots on the dean’s list, graduating at the top 5 percent of his class in criminal procedure, criminal law and trial advocacy.

He was then accepted into Temple Law School’s Master of Laws (LL.M.) trial advocacy program. Lazzara studied under some of the top trial attorneys in the Northeast and was appointed as a judicial law clerk to the New Jersey State Superior Court, where he mediated claims cases and conducted research.

Oh, and all of this happened by the ripe age of 25. So like we said, a bit of an overachiever.

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~ Now at Parker & Lazzara, with offices throughout the Phoenix area and in Prescott, Lazzara specializes in auto accident, personal injury and property damage, but for him, being an attorney isn’t about bragging and accolades—it’s about getting results and caring for clients.

“Instead of being your standard mill-style operation where every case is treated the same, I decide to get more interactive with my clients and more involved with their files,” Lazzara says. “So I take the time to meet with every one of my clients ... I basically give them the time and attention they deserve.”

And Lazzara’s unconventional-yet-common-sense approach shows. He has stellar reviews on attorney-rating websites like Avvo.com, earning five out of five stars from clients and a 10 out of 10 score from Avvo itself.

“I work with attorneys for a living and Larry is by far one of the best attorneys I have encountered. He was very honest and always there to answer all of our questions,” one review says. “He genuinely cares for his clients. He was very on top of things and gave us an outcome that far exceeded our expectations.”

“Mr. Lazzara is a phenomenal attorney possessing a tremendous attention to detail,” says another. “He has a thorough knowledge of the law and provides a complete package when providing solid legal representation. Larry has done a lot of work for me and I have felt very confident going into each legal issue. Larry has always prevailed.”

Lazzara consistently wins because he gets his personal satisfaction from getting results. Rather than celebrating the most recent win, he looks forward to the next case and helping the next client.

“I’m not one of those guys that seeks fame or attention. I want to win,” Lazzara says. “I want to get results quickly. I want to get the job done. That’s how I get my satisfaction. In terms of achievement, I want to get results for my clients—results that would be atypical on these style of cases.”

As a principle, Lazzara is also about giving back. As a designated Wills for Heroes Program attorney, Lazzara will draft wills for Arizona police officers and firefighters, should an undesirable price of the job occur.

Putting in the extra time and attention into each case is what sets him apart from other attorneys, Lazzara says, and that includes reaching out to medical professionals to ensure the best care for his clients. In the future, Lazzara hopes to broaden those medical connections and expand Parker & Lazzara to help even more clients achieve results. Judging by his track record, Lazzara will do just that. VLM

LAWYER UP AT: PARKER & LAZZARA 1490 S. Price Rd., Suite 319, Chandler (480) 456-3080 parkerandlazzara.com

~

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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HOP ON

BOARD THE BEST BUSINESSES ALONG DOWNTOWN MESA’S LATEST LIGHT RAIL EXPANSION

BY VALLEY LIFESTYLES STAFF

On August 22, Valley Metro will celebrate the latest expansion of the light rail, from Mesa Dr. and Main St. to Mesa Dr. and Sycamore St. Situated in the heart of Downtown Mesa, now is the perfect time to explore what this bustling, artsy area has to offer.

Here are some of the best businesses in the area, all walkable from the light rail. Choo choo!

MESA MORMON TEMPLE

You don’t have to be a Mormon to visit the grounds of the Mesa Mormon Temple, but you do have to be a Mormon to go inside. However, the pristine white exterior of the building and the immaculate garden grounds will leave you in awe.

101 S. LeSueur St., Mesa, (480) 833-1211, lds.org HAVEN BURGERS

It might not be much to look at from the outside, but it’s all about them burgers, yo! Known for exceptional service and exceptionally juicy burgers, you can also drop by for sandwiches, burritos, salads and served-all-day breakfast.

606 E. Main St., Suite 101, Mesa, (480) 610-0002, havenburgers.com

MAIN STREET/CENTER STREET

MESA DRIVE/MAIN STREET

It’s the first of the new stops along the Mesa light rail extension. Mesa Drive and Main Street is an intersection of government buildings, worship centers, educational institutions and more, and it’s the first real taste of Mesa you’ll get along the new line.

Easily the most exciting stop along the new light rail extension, Main and Center streets are ground central for Mesa entertainment.

The city has become a lot more lively in recent years, and with these awesome stops, it’s easy to see why.

GOTHAM CITY COMICS & COFFEE

Is it just us, or is Mesa the nerdiest hotspot in the Valley? Sure, Downtown Phoenix gives it a run for its money, but businesses like Gotham City Comics & Coffee really cement the “king nerd” persona for us. Stop by for memorabilia, signings, truly good coffee and, of course, comics.

46 W. Main St., Mesa, 480.649.3065, facebook.com/gothamcitycomics ARIZONA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Arizona is a unique landscape, and the Arizona Museum of Natural History captures it all, from the live soft-shelled turtle named Tom to a threestory recreation of a flash flood. With over 60,000 objects, artifacts and pieces of history under one roof, the AZMNH is the best Arizona museum you haven’t visited. Now you can! 53 N. MacDonald St., Mesa, (480) 644-2230, azmnh.org I.D.E.A. MUSEUM

Open your child’s mind to the wonderful world of creativity. The i.d.e.a. Museum is where ideas come to fruition. From art workshops to exhibits that inspire, the i.d.e.a. Museum is a great place to spend a day, not waste one. 150 W. Pepper Pl., Mesa, (480) 644-2468, ideamuseum.org MESA ARTS CENTER

The addition to Mesa Arts Center in Downtown Mesa marked the beginning of an artsy renaissance in the city. Mesa Arts Center hosts exhibits, shows, concerts and more, plus classes and festivals. There’s always something to do at the MAC. 1 E. Main St., Mesa, (480) 644-6500, mesaartscenter.com

This outdoor venue is host to some of the best concerts in town, as well as festivals and other familyoriented events. Best of all is you can chug down on $8 beers to your heart’s content and make it home safely on the light rail. 263 N. Center St., Mesa, (480) 644-2560, mesaamp.com

MAIN STREET/COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE

MESA AMPHITHEATRE

The next stop on the light rail is Main Street and Country Club Drive. This stop will soon feature the very exciting Mesa Town Square and already has its fair share of crave-worthy restaurants.

MESA TOWN SQUARE

One of Phoenix’s fastest-growing cities, Mesa was in desperate need of a unifying and exciting civic space. Once it is finished, this is sure to be a venue for many upcoming festivals, exercise classes and movies in the park. Corner of Main St. and Country Club Dr., Mesa, (480) 644-2160, mesaaz.gov IL VINAIO

Public transportation is always a good idea when heading to a restaurant named “the wine merchant.” Why limit yourself when the light rail is so conveniently placed less than a block away? 270 W. Main Street, Mesa, (480) 649-6476, ilvinaio.net DESERT EAGLE BREWING

Doesn’t it always feel better to root for the home team? This microbrewery makes it super easy to drink local with their commitment to quality and dedication to serving great beer to their beloved Mesa patrons. 150 W. Main St., Mesa, (480) 656-2662, deserteaglebrewing.com

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LOS DOS MOLINOS

Is the desert not hot enough for you? Do you need something that will make you sweat just a bit more? Your relationship with spicy foods will accurately predict your love of this Arizona staple.

Ay ay ay! 260 S. Alma School Rd., Mesa, (480) 9697475, losdosmolinosmesa.com STANDARD RESTAURANT SUPPLY

From China to food, from furniture to glassware, this store has almost anything in the world that a restaurant owner might need to make his or her business successful—except for the delicious recipes! Heck, it’s open to the public, too. If you want sturdy kitchen utensils on-the-cheap, this is your place. 1305 E. Main St., Mesa, (480) 7763599, standardrestaurant.com Y KNOT PARTY & RENTALS

This is your one-stop-shop for everything partyrelated. Family owned and operated, this business is here to ensure that your biggest events run without a hitch from weddings to children’s birthday parties. 1127 W. Main St., Mesa, (480) 967-4495, yknotparty.com

MESA/SYCAMORE

MAIN ST./ALMA SCHOOL

The intersection of Main Street and Alma School has held significance for awhile due the amount of traffic that it sees. Now the below businesses will be even easier to access with the new light rail extension!

You could call this the education and healthcare corridor of Mesa. Need to get to class, grab a cheap meal or visit a loved one in the hospital?

The new light rail extension will get you there.

EVIT

This technical training school has been one of the best tools for Arizona students to gain experience in the field of their choice. It’s even been a model for career and technical education by the U.S. Department of Education! Students can take a break from driving to school on the light rail.

1601 W. Main St., Mesa, (480) 461-4000, evit.com ARIZONA COLLEGE: MESA CAMPUS

If you’re pursuing a career in healthcare, this is the place for you. Just off the light rail, this campus offers laboratories, multimedia lecture rooms and real-world equipment for hands-on training. 163 N. Dobson Rd., Mesa, (480) 344-1200, arizonacollege.edu BISTRO 13 (BY EVIT)

Support students and try cuisine from the best chefs at the EVIT culinary school! Bistro 13 features global cuisine, but be sure to try the Thai Grilled Mahi Mahi Sandwich, their specialty!

1353 W. Main St., Mesa, (480) 461-6760, evit.com/ services/bakery_culinary_arts ADELANTE HEALTHCARE

This location is one of eight in Arizona offering the belief in sustainable healthcare. Its mission is to provide comprehensive primary health care that is accessible, sustainable and of high quality. And you don’t even need a car to get there! 1705 W. Main St., Mesa, (877) 809-5092, adelantehealthcare.com VLM

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

HELLO BEAUTIFUL! WE RESTORE YOUR HAIR & SELF-CONFIDENCE

FREE CONSULTATION

$20 OFF

AND for first time clients BEFORE

480-758-5185 www.ParisWigs.com

S.W. Corner Warner/Alma School roads

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

39

6 hour drive

OUR DESTINATION VACATION, NO MORE THAN 6 HOURS FROM THE VALLEY

mistof IN THE

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

summer Ocean-front La Jolla offers dewy vacation from our dusty desert

6 hour drive Sitting on our fluffy white bed at La Jolla Shores Hotel, the sound of the crashing waves lulled us to sleep after a five-and-ahalf-hour drive from the Valley.

Thirty minutes later, I awoke to the strains of “Wedding March” floating through the cool breeze. It is accompanying a celadon-accented nuptials at the beachfront hotel. With its Hacienda-style exteriors and open layout, La Jolla Shores Hotel seems like the perfect place for a destination wedding— and we’re only a few hours into the trip.

Not wanting to become too obsessed with the wedding, my husband and I only took a quick peek through the curtains before heading out to explore La Jolla. We met my mother-in-law in her room and off we went.

We started with the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Perched on a picturesque bluff, the tourist attraction/research center offered gorgeous views inside and out. From seahorses and sea dragons to yellow tangs, the sea life was colorful and fascinating.

The aquarium provided a virtual tour of the Pacific Coast, from north to south, and featured more than 60 habitats of fish and invertebrates. Phoenicians can get a taste of the aquarium with the “kelp cam” found online at aquarium.ucsd.edu.

Stepping outside into the cool air and light drizzle, the Preuss Tide-Pool Plaza allowed us to touch and learn about animals.

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and La Jolla, it was a sight to see.

After two hours in the aquarium, we were ready to try one of La Jolla’s finest restaurants, NINE-TEN, featuring Chef Jason Knibb, who was named San Diego’s 2014 “Chef of the Year” by the California Restaurant Association.

My husband retreated to his English roots for the appetizer, braised oxtail and English pea tortellini. Created with whipped ricotta cheese, pickled pearl onions, snap peas and Meyer lemon, the oxtail dish was very tender and moist, whetting our appetite for the next course.

For my entrée, I had the prime New York steak with a cabernet reduction, garnished with crispy pee wee potatoes, salsa verde,

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

DIVE IN AT: LA JOLLA SHORES HOTEL 8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla (858) 412-0721 ljshoreshotel.com

and a quince and mustard seed compote. The cabernet gave the steak a savory flavor, which complemented the steak jus.

Pumpkin seed-crusted lamb loin was my husband’s dish of choice, which boasted hibiscus-based salsify, maitake mushroom, baby broccoli, green garlic puree and lamb jus.

NINE-TEN treated us to dessert of gluten-free and vegan plum sorbet, which melted over the top of sweet corn and coconut tapioca, macerated plum and a caramelized masa wafer. The sweet sorbet was a hit at the table.

As for our choice, we opted for the half-baked chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream. Pastry Chef Rachel King outdid herself with this finale.

We retreated to our room, and as pitch-black night fell over the Pacific Ocean we watched, from the patio, a group of scuba divers emerge from the water holding glow sticks.

After breakfast at the hotel, the three of us explored La Jolla Cove, which teems with marine life above and below the water’s surface. Located along Coast Boulevard, the cove gave us an up-close-and-personal look at sea lions, which sprawled on rocks that were occasionally sprayed with salt water.

Soaking wet from the unexpected high tide, we needed to return to our rooms to shower, change and prepare for a family-style meal at the new Catania Restaurant. The chef visited our table as we ordered the double-cut pork chop and the 8-ounce prime hanger steak. Our server wasn’t kidding when he said the meals were enough to fill a family. A large plate held the pork chop, which came with English peas, sugar snaps, pancetta and torpedo onions. The restaurant was also generous with the prime hanger steak, complete with grilled rapini.

After all that food, a walk by the beach was necessary as the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. VLM

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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Congratulations Dr. Dustin Coles & Premier Orthodontics

ON WINNING THE

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3160 S. Gilbert Rd. Ste. 1, Chandler, AZ 85286 (480) 361-4600 | www.premierorthoaz.com 44

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

home garden DESIGN

Without

SACRIFICE KID-FRIENDLY HOME DESIGNS THAT LOOK GREAT

BY JASMINE KEMPER

Having kids doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your sense of style. While some designs in your house may not be suitable for young ones, there are still ways to be stylish, contemporary and kid-friendly all at the same time.

< CHALKBOARD WALL

Who doesn’t want to write on the walls?

A chalkboard wall is a great way to keep your kitchen trendy but organized. You can write reminders right on the wall or plan your weekly menu for the family. While you’re doing that, the kids can draw you a masterpiece that is easily wiped clean later.

Photo courtesy interioridea.net

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home&garden

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

LIVING ROOM OTTOMAN

When you have kids, childproofing is essential.

Instead of a coffee table with sharp edges, opt for an ottoman in the living room. It’s an excellent substitution for a table and you can still utilize it like a table by adding a serving tray on top. An ottoman can add a pop of color and some even come with extra storage inside! Photo courtesy sustainablelivingnews.com TOY DÉCOR

A home should reflect a family’s interests, and by incorporating your children’s interests into the designs you make them feel included. Find a unique way to showcase their favorite toys or characters like with this animal canvas project. This creative idea takes old toys and gives them new life. You could also find vintage toys at a thrift shop and give them a touch of new paint. Photo courtesy homemadeginger.com MASON JARS

Mason jars have multiple uses in a home with children. Plus, they give any room a vintage feel. You can use them to store dry foods in kitchen, toiletries in the bathroom or art supplies for the kids. Since they are see-through, kids can easily find their supplies without help. Photo courtesy designsponge.com FRAMED ART

Chances are your little ones have a ton of drawings lying around without a home. By using frames, you can turn their drawings into real pieces of art! Hanging paintings is a way to create an artistic space, and using your child’s work is a stylish way to showcase their creativity. Plus, they can be easily changed out with new drawings as their skills evolve. Go for a sleek white frame for a clean look or jazz up a room with intricate and colorful designs. Photo courtesy mydomaine.com READING NOOK

An easy way to create a relaxed area without comprising space is with a built-in reading nook by the window. You can even add storage to the bottom so the kids can keep their school supplies organized and out of the way. A reading nook can be used by everyone in the house, and it adds a calm touch to empty window sills. Photo courtesy tovtov.com VLM

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

"A home should reflect a family’s interests, and by incorporating your children’s interests into the designs you make them feel included."

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

THE

Real Deal

QUEEN CREEK’S BUDDYZ CHICAGO PIZZERIA DOESN’T CUT CORNERS

BY JASMINE KEMPER PHOTOS BY SAM NALVEN

ABOVE: The Italian Beef Sandwich is a Chicago staple you can't live without.

For native Chicagoans, Buddyz Chicago Pizzeria in Queen Creek tastes just like home. And it makes sense, considering chef Joe Scarnato is a Chicago native.

Scarnato says most of his culinary experience came from watching his grandmother in the kitchen as a young boy.

“We were the cliché Italian family with Sunday dinners. My grandmother is a phenomenal cook and she is very influential in the recipes that we use now and ... have used for over 20plus years,” Scarnato says.

He got his start in the restaurant business back in 1992 in the northern Chicago suburbs. After opening a few restaurants, Scarnato, his brother and two friends formed Buddyz in 2005.

Twenty-three years and nine restaurants later, the family business is still going strong. This is why two years ago Scarnato decided to leave the windy city to bring a taste of Chicago to the West.

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food&wine

FOOD SPOTLIGHT

“There [are] a lot of Chicago, Midwest people that have migrated here and I felt like it was something that would take to this area and it’s been the fastest-growing restaurant I’ve ever had in 23 years. It’s been great,” Scarnato says.

What sets Buddyz apart from other places is that everything they do is authentic to their home state, down to the pizzas, which are named after Chicago landmarks like Millennium Park and Sears Tower.

“Our roots are in Chicago. We do everything from scratch. We are a very true, authentic, upscale Chicago-style pizza place,” Scarnato says.

Deep-dish pizza is a Chicago staple, and at Buddyz they take it very seriously. They have their dough rise twice—once after it’s mixed and then in the pan with butter—so that the butter is absorbed into the dough itself, Scarnato says.

“I think the way that we cook it is kind of unique because we cook it in stages. What we try to do is create layers. We want to start with the dough, then we put cheese and we kind of melt it in the oven for a few minutes to create a layer.

Then the ingredients go on top of that and then the sauce. It’s almost like building a cake in some way,” Scarnato says.

For this “fork-and-knife” pizza, they also use their own three-cheese blend that they make inhouse, as well as homemade pizza sauce and freshpeeled tomatoes that are added on top.

“We still cook pizzas in bakery ovens and deck ovens. It takes 25 to 30 minutes to cook a deep-dish pizza and there’s just no way around it,” Scarnato says.

He jokes that you have to teach customers patience when it comes to deep-dish pizzas, unless they’re already from Chicago.

UPPER LEFT: Antique street signs show off a real intersection in Chicago.

LOWER LEFT: Pizza Chips are a chips and salsa meets bruschetta concoction that Joe Scarnato and his son created.

OPPOSITE: A true Chicago deep-dish should take no less than 25 minutes to make.

food&wine

FOOD SPOTLIGHT

“That’s what they know. If you tell them it’s going to take less than [30 minutes] it cannot be real,” Scarnato says.

Another dish Buddyz is popular for is their Pizza Chips, a recipe Scarnato and his son created in their own kitchen.

Scarnato describes it as a bruschetta salsa with fresh tomatoes, garlic, oil, olives, spices and basil that they let marinade.

“We serve that with our Pizza Chips. We roll out a pizza crust and we add spices to it and let it bake. So it’s almost like a flatbread and we cut it up. It’s really presented like a chips and salsa,” Scarnato says.

The Italian Beef Sandwich is another Chicago staple you can’t live without. It comes with a crusty French loaf, Giardiniera peppers, their cheese blend and Italian beef.

“For a lot of people who haven’t had it, the spices and how it’s presented are very unique.

It’s a Chicago-style Italian beef and it definitely has its own flavor,” Scarnato says. “There’s olive oil, and oregano and a little bit of garlic and it’s slow-cooked.”

They make their own pepper mix, which is exclusive to Chicago. When this sandwich is made right, there is nothing else like it, Scarnato says.

“You can tell when people are from Chicago because they want it dipped so it’s soggy and makes a mess, and that’s the way it needs to be eaten,” Scarnato says.

In addition to their scratch-made food, they have over 20 craft beers in stock that are from Chicago and throughout the Midwest, as well as the West Coast, that are changed seasonally.

These delicious Windy City classics at Buddyz Chicago Pizzeria will make you forget you that live in the desert. VLM

DIVE INTO DEEP DISH AT: Buddyz Chicago Pizzeria 18423 E. San Tan Blvd., Queen Creek (480) 822-1225 buddyzpizza.com ABOVE: Joe Scarnato slicing up some pies for patiently waiting customers.

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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food&wine

FOOD SPOTLIGHT

YOU

Gotta Try:

RAVIOLI DI PATATE DOLCI GIAPPONESI AL GORGONZOLA

BY ALEXA D’ANGELO

Nothing says Italian cuisine like ravioli, but La Stalla Cucina Rustica has created an interesting concoction that transcends your typical filler-and-redsauce combination.

Made with sweet potato rolled in the pasta and then simmered in a Gorgonzola cream sauce, Cami Glen, manager of La Stalla, says the Ravioli Di Patate Dolci Giapponesi Al Gorgonzola is unlike any other ravioli you’ll taste in town.

“The contrast between the sweet potato and the gorgonzola is really different,” Glen says. “Most restaurants fill it with meat or cream, but not us.”

The ambiance of the quaint restaurant makes you feel as if you are vacationing in Italy, and the menu is classic Italian cuisine with a twist.

“We get a lot of regulars here,” Glen says. “They come for the quiet place and good food.”

Glen has been manager of the restaurant for eight years, and in her time there,

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1445 S. Arizona Ave., Ste. 3 | Chandler | 480.899.5700 Mon-Thur 10am-6pm | Fri 10am-5pm | Sat 9:30am-3pm

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VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

the ravioli has always been a favorite on the menu, and the recipe has never changed. Though Glen says people order everything on the menu, the ravioli is consistently popular amongst patrons.

“The difference in the way we prepare our ravioli dish is what sets us far apart,” Glen says. VLM

TRANSCEND TYPICAL ITALIAN AT: LA STALLA CUCINA RUSTICA 68 W. Buffalo St., Chandler (480) 855-9990 lastallacr.com

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ResidencesAtFountainhead.com VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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food&wine

IN SEASON BLACKBERRIES

BLACKBERRIES

BY ALEXA D’ANGELO

Blackberries are a treat that is not only sweet, but good for you too! Well, they’re slightly less healthy in an ice cream or drink, but we can pretend.

Blackberries have been part of the human diet for thousands of years, and the berry has also been used medicinally throughout history. Soldiers in World War I used the juice to maintain good health, while Civil War soldiers used blackberries to treat dysentery. Though now we have good ‘ole antibiotics for that, blackberries are still delicious and great for you.

Dull, black-colored blackberries indicate the fruit is at its peak of sweetness and ready to eat, which usually occurs at the end of the summer.

It’s unknown where exactly the blackberry came from, but it has been around since the days of Julius Caeser. Greeks and Romans used them for medicinal purposes and Native Americans used them for food and dyeing animal skins. This delectable berry is also known as “bramble,” “brummel,” “brambleberry” and “bly,” depending on where you are in the world.

It’s a good time for blackberry lovers! Summer sees grocery stores packed with the yummy fruit at the prime eating ripeness. Pick up a pack on-the-cheap today and make a decadent pie, try your hand at making jam or use it as an ingredient to sweeten up your meal. VLM

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Raspberry and Blackberry Crostata INGREDIENTS:

½ cups all-purpose flour • 4 tbsp. sugar • ½ tsp. fine salt • 1 stick cold, unsalted butter, cut into pieces • 4 to 6 tbsp. ice water • 2 cups raspberries • 1 1/3 cups blackberries • 1 tbsp. cornstarch • 1 tbsp. lemon juice • ½ tsp. grated lemon zest • 1 large egg white • 1 tsp. sanding sugar • 2 tbsp. chopped pistachios (optional) DIRECTIONS:

1. Place flour, 1 tbsp. sugar and salt in bowl of a food processor and pulse until combined. Add butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 2. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time and pulse just until dough comes together, careful to not over mix. 3. Pat dough into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap and chill at least one hour. 4. Preheat oven to 400°F. Roll out dough on a sheet of parchment paper into a 12-inch circle. 5. Gently transfer dough and parchment paper to a large baking sheet. 6. In a large bowl, gently toss raspberries, blackberries, remaining sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice and zest until evenly blended. 7. Spoon berry mixture onto dough circle, leaving a border of about 2½ inches. 8. Fold edge of dough over berries. Gently crimp and pinch the fold to keep it from unrolling. 9. Brush edge of dough with egg white and sprinkle with sanding sugar. 10. Bake about 40 minutes or until dough is golden brown and filling is bubbling. 11. Let cool at least 15 minutes before serving. 12. Top with pistachios and dust lightly with confectioners’ sugar, if desired. *Recipe courtesy driscolls.com

< Blackberry

Lemonade

Bourbon

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups blackberries • 2 cups water • Juice of 3 lemons • Brown sugar simple syrup (Dissolve ½ cup brown sugar in ½ cup water and 6 oz. bourbon) • Lemon wedges and mint for garnish (optional) DIRECTIONS:

1. In the bottom of a pitcher, add blackberries and muddle. 2. Add the rest of the ingredients, stir and pour over ice. 3. Garnish with lemon wedges and mint if desired. *Recipe courtesy eatlovedrink.wordpress.com VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

CALLING ALL BREAKFAST LOVERS! If you haven’t been to the Henhouse Cafe you are truly missing out. You’ll feel right at home with the friendly atmosphere and shabby chic decor. Our food is purchased locally from farm to table, We even make our own sausage in house. It’s high quality comfort food that will delight your taste buds The menu is bursting with egg items from the griddle to chicken and waffles. The homemade sausage and homemade green chile sauce is so delicious!! We don’t think you can go wrong with anything on the Henhouse Cafe menu.

NESTLED BELOW THE VAST HILLSIDES of the Las Sendas community. Lay a sanctuary of comfort and delicious natural foods and beverages. You will be welcomed by members of our experienced and passionate Sunnyside service experts. Our goal being not only to satisfy every appetite that walks through our doors, but giving you such a positive memorable experience that you will be ecstatic to come see us again. Join us for lunch 11am-2pm: buy one entree and get the 2nd entree of equal or lesser value 50% off!

Cannot be combined with any other offer, limit one per check, limit one per table.

3244 E Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert (480) 219-7379. www.henhouse-cafe.com Mon-Sun: 6:30am-2:00pm

2823 N Power Rd Suite 101, Mesa (480) 832-9696 facebook.com/SunnysideBreakfastLounge Open everyday 7:00am to 2:00pm.

CHoP CHANDLER is Chandler’s first locally owned steakhouse and grill. Featuring steak, seafood and the new burger bar menu.

Simply prepared seasonal fish and nightly specials are cooked to perfection on the seven-foot mesquite hardwood grill. Salads, fresh vegetables, desserts, vegetarian and lighter fare options also grace the menu. The energetic social atmosphere is amplified around the U-shaped bar. The intimate interior is filled with amber lighting, wood finishes and plush chocolate leather booths.

Enjoy an extensive wine list, beers and spirits.

Happy hour 4 to 6 pm. ChoP’s private dining area will accommodate parties of 50, is equipped and perfect for business meetings. ​ 625 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler 2 (480) 821-0009. www.chopchandler.com

THE LIVING ROOM WINE CAFÉ AND LOUNGE has been drawing crowds in Chandler’s Downtown Ocotillo neighborhood since opening in 2009, and has recently opened a second location in DC Ranch Marketplace. The Living Room is all about hospitality and staying true to their mantra of love, laugh and lounge. All ages are welcome.

The Living Room is truly the modern day version of the Irish Pub and neighborhood unrushed hangout; its a chill lounge. Experience sharable food, 25 wines and sangrias by the glass, a handpicked list of wines by the bottle, beers and a full line of spirits in soft seating or on one of the cozy patios.

2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler (480) 855-2848. www.livingroomwinebar.com

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AN UPSCALE CASUAL RESTAURANT bringing authentic Creole Cajun Cuisines to the east valley. Featuring made-from-scratch dishes straight from the chef’s grandmothers’ kitchen in Louisiana. Offering many staples such as Gumbo, Étouffée, Po Boy’s and red beans and rice made with homemade Andouille sausage. Not to mention the hearty Bayou Bucket full of fresh crawfish and shrimp all flown in from Louisiana’s Gulf Coast and full of flavor.

5070 S. Gilbert Road #400, Chandler (480) 895-1655 www.creolecajunbistro.com Tuesday-Saturday 11-10, Sunday 11-7 SPECIAL HOURS: Saturday, Aug. 8, 11am-5pm and Sunday, Aug. 9, Closed

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A FAMILY OWNED and operated smokehouse and BBQ restaurant, your search is over. A one-of-a-kind, family-friendly enviroment welcomes you to enjoy fully delicious onsite smoked meats and made-from-scratch signature sides and desserts.

Simply setting the standard for quality BBQ. Fun Place. Serious Bar-b-Que. 1633 S Stapley, Mesa (US60/Stapley) (480) 707-9009 PigglysCatering@Gmail.com

PARADISE BAKERY - AT SANTAN VILLAGE. Is all that shopping making you hungry? Stop

by Paradise Bakery & Cafe at San Tan Village shopping center for a wide variety of menu selections including delicious cookies and baked goods, breakfast items, soups, salads and sandwiches. All of our menu items are prepared daily with only the finest ingredients available, just as you would at home.

We are a “hands-on” bakery and cafe concept, which is what sets us apart and keeps our loyal customers coming back, again and again. We look forward to seeing you at Paradise Bakery & Cafe at San Tan Village!

2156 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert (480) 889-7080. www.paradisebakery.com Mon-Fri 6am-9pm; Sat 7am-9pm; Sun 7am-8pm Breakfast: Mon-Fri 6-10am; Sat & Sun 7-11am | Free Wi-Fi

TO THE DELIGHT of its hordes of hungry and devoted fans, Gecko Grill has reopened and is now on the southwest corner of Baseline and Greenfield roads. This family owned business serves authentic Mexican food, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and has an extensive catering menu. Gecko Grill is very welcoming with a fun blend of families and singles and ranged in age from babies to grandparents. Just as the website says, “Warning: This restaurant is habit forming!”

4341 E. Baseline Road, Gilbert (480) 539-2988. www.geckogrillaz.com

Seafood Market & Restaurant ROCK LOBSTER IS THE SUSHI ROOM reinvented. Promising fun, energy and the authentic creativity of Teppanyaki. Rock Lobster has 25 menu items and all of The Sushi Room favorites. A huge Sake line-up, Asian beers and spirits add to any occasion.

The Teppanyaki room is perfect for special events and celebrations. This is Downtown Ocotillo’s place to party, an exciting night out and affordable for families. Happy hour daily. Reservations are suggested for the Teppanyaki tables.

2475 W. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler (480) 821-9000. www.rocklobsterrocks.com

SOCAL FISH TACO COMPANY, the coastal California-inspired food café, has given Gilbert’s Heritage District a surf vibe. From the East Valley family which established Mesa’s Seafood Market three decades ago, SoCal Fish Taco Company is a beachcomber’s take on today’s gastropub, serving premium microbrews and quick, zesty, affordable food in unfussy under-roof and under-the-stars patio settings. Fish tacos, wraps, fresh salads, crab cakes, large shrimp, raw oysters and chowder in a bread bowl: This is food you buy on the beach or from taco stands near the beach in El Segundo, Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach and Coronado Island. This is food that brings thoughts of the waves, billowing blue sky and feet-in-the-sand summer memories.

219. N. Gilbert Rd., Gilbert (480) 80-SOCAL (76225) www.socalfishtacos.com Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm, Closed Sundays

SEAFOOD MARKET & RESTAURANT is a family owned establishment which opened in 1991 in Mesa. It is not only a restaurant but a fresh seafood market too, just as the name suggests. Fish & shellfish selections are delivered daily and are always fresh, never thawed. And we only buy the BEST! With an extensive mouth-watering menu to include King Salmon, Scallops, Crab, Lobster & Orange Roughy, there is also delicious chicken, juicy steaks & pasta for guests to enjoy. Seafood Market has won several recognition awards including being honored with a 4 out of 4 star rating.

3406 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa (Val Vista Rd.) (480) 633-1580 www.seafoodmarketrestaurant.com

CANTINA LAREDO - AT SANTAN VILLAGE. Serving modern Mexican food in a sophisticated, vibrant atmosphere. The Mexico City-style menu includes grilled fish, chicken and steaks complimented by signature sauces such as chipotle-wine with portobello mushrooms or sauteéd artichoke hearts and roasted red bell peppers. Enjoy the award-winning signature margarita, the Casa Rita, made from fresh lime juice and the finest tequila. Serving lunch, dinner, drinks, Sunday brunch. Full service catering and private event dining available.

2150 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert (480) 782-6777. www.Cantinalaredo.com Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm

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datebook COMPILED BY ALEXA D’ANGELO

GREAT DATES Whitney Cummings SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

Have you ever wondered where the raunchy humor and quick-witted one-liners on “2 Broke Girls” came from? Well, it’s Whitney Cummings. The comedian and actress is the show’s co-creator and also starred in and created the NBC sitcom “Whitney.” Her latest comedic feat, I Love You, is now available on iTunes and shows her chops with anecdotal mocking of love and dating. Tempe Improv, 930 E. University Dr., Tempe, (480) 921-9877, tempeimprov.com

Arizona Dance Classic FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 THROUGH SUNDAY, AUGUST 9

It’s like watching “Dancing with the Stars” live! Come check out (or enter) the Arizona Dance Classic, which showcases dancer talent in different categories. The categories this year are ballroom, West Coast Swing, two-step and many more, including line dancing and workshops with famous instructors. We-Ko-Pa Resort, 10438 N. Fort McDowell Rd., Scottsdale, (480) 882-1830, arizonadanceclassic.com

Idina Menzel SUNDAY, AUGUST 9

Whether you know it or not, her voice has been stuck in your head for the last two years. The “Let it Go” singer and voice of Elsa in the Disney movie “Frozen,” Idina Menzel is a full-fledged superstar.

Menzel’s classic Broadway voice brought her to the Academy Awards in 2014 for her rendition of “Let it Go,” where John Travolta famously butchered her name calling her “Adele Dazeem,” though we all know the true name of this leading lady with a powerful voice. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, (602) 3792800, comericatheatre.com

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Lindsey Stirling

24th Annual Family Cornfest

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 AND SUNDAY, AUGUST 23

She is a Gilbert native and doing her hometown proud. Lindsey Stirling, who got her big break on “America’s Got Talent,” was told

by Piers Morgan that there was not a place in music for a dancing dub step violinist. Since then she has proven him oh-so-very wrong, using her classical violin training to complement electronic beats that she rhythmically moves to during her performances.

Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, (602) 379-2800, comericatheatre.com

Very few things say summer like corn on the cob. Who doesn’t love to gnaw on a refreshing ear or two of the sweet stuff? Take the whole family out to the 24th Annual Family Cornfest, where you can buy the best of the best corn in the state and visit more than 60 arts and crafts vendor booths while kids hang out with the festival’s famous clown. El Zaribah Shrine Auditorium, 552 N. 40th St., Phoenix, (602) 2310300, el-zaribah.org

Wicked WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26 THROUGH SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4

Dierks Bentley SATURDAY, AUGUST 15

This country crooner is an Arizona native who loves his home state.

His hits like “Home” and “Drunk on a Plane” have sent the star into country superstardom. Bentley brings his latest album, Riser, to the stage this at this show. He has seven albums under his belt, and with songs like “I Hold On,” creates lyrics and sounds that everyone can sing along to. Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, (602) 254-7200, ak-chinpavilion.com

The biggest hit to come off of Broadway in recent years, “Wicked” makes its way to Tempe! It’s the story everyone thinks they know after seeing the classic “Wizard of Oz,” but “Wicked” takes place long before Toto and Dorothy realized they weren’t in Kansas anymore. This story tells a tale of one girl born with green skin and another girl who is very beautiful and popular. These two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. Watch the story unfold this month! ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe, (480) 965-3434, asugammage.com

Taylor Swift

Heart

MONDAY, AUGUST 17 AND TUESDAY, AUGUST 18

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28

Does she even need an introduction? She’s Taylor Swift! The country-gone-pop artist brings her latest album to life, full of pop melodies and relatable lyrics. Her songs off the album, 1989, have been hits on the charts, with the latest, “Bad Blood,” playing every thirty seconds on pop radio stations. Join T-Swift and opening act Vance Joy in Glendale. Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, (623) 772-3200, gilariverarena.com

Oooh, barracuda! The two sisters who formed the band Heart bring their show to Phoenix this month. This tour is all about bringing their hits back to the stage, singing their ‘70s chart-toppers all over America. Celebrate the history of the duo and their award-winning music by catching it all live.

Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix, (602) 267-1600, celebritytheatre.com VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

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last word

FINAL THOUGHTS

PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER

BY BREANNE DEMORE

Puzzles will always remind me of my grandmother.

Puzzles were always a go-to gift that we knew would please, and I couldn’t believe at how skillfully and quickly she was able to put them together. She could spend hours staring at the same weathered red barn finding where the right pieces go.

Probably due to her influence, my mother has always had puzzles in the house—not continuously, but we frequently go through phases of hunching over a cardboard picture attempting to close the gaps.

I’m not saying I’m particularly good at puzzles. In fact, my mother and I refuse to look at any over 750 pieces in the store, whereas my grandmother frequently conquered 1500 to 2000 piece settings.

But for me they represent something much bigger than just a broken image of Big Ben. My most recent bout of puzzleobsession made me realize this.

A couple of months ago, my mother and I were walking through a store when we stumbled upon a couple of 550 piece puzzles that struck our fancy. We looked at each other, smiled, picked up the two with photos that we thought we would sick of the slowest, purchased our puzzles and were leaning over them, separating out the pieces later that night.

As we started putting together the outside pieces—completing the border first is law in my family—we chatted and kept finding ourselves talking about my grandmother. You see, my grandmother 64

VALLEY LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2015

passed away about a year and a half ago and my mother is still dealing with some especially trying untied ends following her passing and, just as we all do, misses her dearly. Being able to share observations about grandma’s puzzling habits and focus on those happy memories is heartwarming for both of us.

Then there is the friendly competition. As we were working on that first puzzle a couple months back, my boyfriend dropped by and started to help us. He walked in to my mother and me joyfully chiding each other and claiming to be “so much better at puzzles” than one another.

In my family, a puzzle quickly becomes a game—with a winner.

Depending on who is playing and what mood we are in, the “winner” is either the person snapping in the most pieces or, most dangerously, the person who places the last piece. Many times in my childhood, I remember my sisters hiding a piece out of eye sight from the other, unsuspecting “players” to ensure they “win.”

Last night, as my mom, sister and I were huddled over a new puzzle, I couldn’t help but smile. In the midst of teasing each other about who was doing the most work (me), who put that wrong piece there (my sister) and who would finish sorting the rest of the pieces (probably my mom), we were able to catch up, share stories and have a bit of fun. See, for me, puzzles are so much more than the cardboard game. They represent family, past and present, and taking some time out of your day to catch up, and sure, enjoy a little friendly competition. VLM