Paradise Valley, AZ August 2021 by City Lifestyle

AU G U S T 2 02 1

A R C A D I A B I LT M O R E

JOHNJAY AND BLAKE

VAN ES TALK

#LOVEPUP AND FAMILY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER

Tammy Fellows | tammy.fellows@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

For the Love of Family

Michelle Glicksman | michelle.glicksman@lifestylepubs.com PUBLISHER A SSISTANT

Lyssa Van Cleave | lyssa.vancleave@lifestylepubs.com

GO AHEAD… I DARE YOU TO TELL ME ABOUT YOUR KID(S) OR PET(S) WITH-

ACCO UNT MANAGER

OUT A SMILE STEALING ACROSS YOUR FACE. (No, I’m not speaking about

Jen David | jen.david@lifestylepubs.com

when your toddler is having an all-out tantrum in the middle of Safeway… we all have those moments!) There are things in life that bring us joy, and our kids and pets typically top this category. In fact, as I’m typing this, I keep glancing at the photos on my desk of my family… my hubby, my two kiddos, and my dog. I find I glance at the images when I need inspiration in my day, or a stress break, or a moment of Zen. Since our mini-mes and fur-babies are often the top priorities for so many of us, we dedicated this issue to kids, pets, and families. Of course, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone else in town who loves and advo-

AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alison Bailin Batz, Nadine Bubeck, Susan Lanier-Graham, Teresa Traverse CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Spencer Fahlman, James Patrick

cates more for children than Johnjay and Blake Van Es. Johnjay—of The Johnjay & Rich Show on KISS-FM in the Valley—not only often boasts about his kids on-air, but he and Blake founded and run the #LovePup dog rescue; spend countless hours volunteering with, raising funds for, and overall advocating for children; and so much more. Read all about what they're doing on page 32. We also feature stories about an organization founded with the purpose of spreading kindness, a new sports destination for kids (it’s in that unique pyramid building

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

on Shea Boulevard!), a new “edutainment” option, and, for when you need to head

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

out of town, some great family spots.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

We also feature Robert Rossi, a Los Angeles talent manager who just moved back to

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

the Valley—his hometown—to help kids fulfill their dreams of getting to Hollywood. I

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

can’t wait to watch all of those rising stars!

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

We hope the issue brings a smile to your face and brings you joy. Now excuse me while I go hug my family! Yours, 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Michelle Glicksman, Publisher

ON THE COVER Johnjay and Blake Van Es

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES PATRICK 10

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

Proverbs 3:5-6 Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Paradise Valley area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2021

FEATURES 24 New Beginnings and Leaving a Legacy Talent Manager Robert Rossi Returns to the Valley

32 A Doggone Good Family Johnhay and Blake Van Es Talk About Family, and the Evolution of #LovePuP

38 Scottsdale-Based Be Kind People Project Seeks to Spread Kindness Nonprofit Reaches Children Via a Variety of Programs That Aim to Bolster Social Skills

32 50

50 Home on the Road Bucket-List Hot Spots for Families

DEPARTMENTS 10

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

20 Local Experiences 24 Local Limelight 28 Local’s Choice 48 Drvier’s Notebook 50 Travel Destination 56 Lifestyle Calendar 58 Local’s Only

GOOD TIMES

USO Arizona Mom's Baby Shower Dominick's Steakhouse teamed up with the Arizona Coyotes and USO Arizona to welcome and host a baby shower for 75 expecting military moms. The expecting moms are either active-duty members themselves, or related to active-duty members. The attendees enjoyed lunch, a gift bag, car seat installations, games, and more.

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AROUND TOWN Conceived through a desire to add visual appeal and beauty the venue’s lobby, The Gallery at The Madison provides a chance for the community to experience art at no cost. The featured artwork will be switched out every three months, allowing many local artists the opportunity to have their work displayed. Free; open weekdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. TheMadison.org

FAST-CASUAL EAT UP DRIVE IN RESTAURANT OPENS Located off 40th Street and Indian School Road next to The Porch, Eat Up Drive In is now open for both dinner and lunch. Created by Jocque Concepts, the owners of Diego Pops, The Montauk, and The Hot Chick, the restaurant offers food that is cooked slow and served fast, aiming for it to “feel like home sweet home.” Meals are offered both individualized and family-sized, and include prime dip sandwiches,

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HUMAN SERVICES CAMPUS LAUNCHES MIKE MCQUAID LEGACY FUND INITIATIVE Beginning with his days serving meals at the

THE MADISON CENTER FOR THE ARTS DEBUTS NEW GALLERY

Human Services Campus (HSC) in 2005 that grew out of his vision for a single location offering a range

The new performing arts venue The Madison

of holistic, wraparound services to end homeless-

Center for the Arts recently launched The Gallery

ness, Mike McQuaid’s impact has not diminished.

at The Madison, an art exhibition featuring works by local artists. 16

Andre House 35 years ago to the formation of the

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

Nor has the legacy he left behind after succumbing to COVID-19 last summer.

To ensure that McQuaid’s vision is sustained and fully realized, the HSC is launching the Mike McQuaid Legacy Fund, a three-year initiative with a goal of $25 million. Funds will be used to address the issue of homelessness through a combination of tactics including street outreach; client services improvements; and expansion and capital projects, such as renovating the building that was the former Men’s Overflow Shelter, which closed several years ago. The initiative is nearing the halfway point in fundraising pledges and actual donations, with commitments that include a Garcia Family Foundation $10 million pledge to be paid $1 million a year for 10 years. Interested donors can make one-time gifts or multi-year pledges to the initiative by contacting sdavis@hsc-az.org, or by calling 602.705.4719. HSC-AZ.org

JACQUELYNN AND BENNETT DORRANCE GIFT $5.4M TO UOFA COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES Paradise Valley residents and University of Arizona alumni Jacquelynn and Bennett Dorrance recently made a gift commitment of $5.4 million to endow the deanship of the University of Arizona College of Humanities in support of efforts to integrate traditional and cutting-edge approaches into humanities teaching and learning. Dean Alain-Philippe Durand is the inaugural holder of the Dorrance Endowed Deanship. The gift is meant to be a platform from which the dean "will be able to bring the humanities to the forefront of the University of Arizona's life and mission through a continuous and fearless spirit of open inquiry."

WRIGLEY MANSION DEBUTS WINE CELLAR TOUR EXPERIENCE Love wine? Oenophiles can now experience a private tour of the award-winning Wine Cellar at the Wrigley Mansion, which features 1,200 labels

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and 12,000 bottles. The tour includes a glass of Champagne, as well as select hors d’oeuvres, plus the opportunity to hand-select—along with the sommelier—a bottle of wine to enjoy with dinner. There is a cost for the tour; reservations are available at ExploreTock.com/ wrigleymansion.

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LOCAL EXPERIENCES

KIDS + PETS WHILE IT’S NOT OVER YET, SUMMER IS SOON COMING TO AN END AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO BID ADIEU THAN TO SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND OUR FAVORITE FOURLEGGED FRIENDS! Embrace the end of the season by gathering the kids, dogs, and adults alike for some indoor and outdoor recreation and exploration, pet-friendly destinations that embrace our furry friends, and our end of summer and return to school summer party ideas!

KIDS AT PLAY + Bring your flashlights for a self-guided, post-sunset tour of Desert Botanical Garden’s night-blooming plants. Check out the farmers' market while you’re at it. 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008 + Keep it casual at Altadena Park’s splash pad, playground, and ramada picnic areas. 3711 E. Altadena Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85028 + For a twist in traditional miniature golf, hit a few in the dark amidst neon at Glow Putt Mini Golf. 9160 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260 + Let them channel their inner Tiger Woods or Nelly Korda by hitting a few at Top Golf. 9500 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85256 + Hit Arizona’s first indoor water park at Great Wolf Lodge Scottsdale and cool off in waterslides, play pools, and fountains galore. 7333 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85258 20

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

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END-OF-SUMMER HURRAH + Give the kids a memorable summer send-off with a Sleepy Teepee sleepover. They’ll never think of tent camping the same way again. AZSleepyTeepee.com + Be impressed with a Friday sunset champagne sabering by a pro on the Hearth ’61 patio, complete with a complimentary tasting and toast. 5445 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 + Host a dinner created in your kitchen by a personal chef like Stacey Weber, who brings the tasty healthy touches she does as consultant for the Arizona Cardinals. 4740 E. Shea Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85028 + Take in a better than bird’s-eye view while knocking off a bucket list item with a Rainbow Ryders hot air balloon ride. 715 E. Covey Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85024

Photo by Chris Banks

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+ Prime sailing season is around the corner, but get a jump start with a cruise on Lake Pleasant courtesy of Arizona Sailing Adventures. 10211 N. 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85028

PET-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES + Chilled drinking fountains for two- and four-legged guests, off-leash spots, and separate spaces for small dogs await at Paradise Valley Dog Park. 17642 N. 40th St., Phoenix, AZ 85032 + Lush landscapes, outdoor gardens and terraces, plus a fresh, local ingredients-driven pet menu at Arizona Biltmore will make your pooch feel right at home. 2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85016 + Run your errands while spoiling Fido with some spa time at Dogtopia. 13001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85032 + Let your pup cool off safely with swim lessons from AZ Dog Sports. 12639 N. 48th St., Phoenix, AZ 85254 + Take a break while shopping and let your pup play amidst the lush

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grassy patches throughout Biltmore Fashion Park. Vendors offer fresh water bowls and treats, too. 2502 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85016 CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

New Beginnings and Leav ing a Legacy TALENT MANAGER ROBERT ROSSI RETURNS TO THE VALLEY

FOR ROBERT ROSSI, MOVING BACK TO HIS HOMETOWN OF PHOENIX IS THE START OF BOTH NEW BEGINNINGS AND HIS LEGACY. A talent manager who has called Los Angeles home for the past few decades, this is the start of his newest mission— working with kids in the Valley who want to break into Hollywood. “Why should a kid who wants to be an actor not have a chance just because they live in Arizona and not California?” he asks. Helping children establish acting careers is something Rossi has been doing

for

while—teen

sensation

Daniel DiMaggio, one of the “it” teens in the industry and currently playing the role of Oliver Otto in ABC’s American Housewife, has been his client since he was just 3. Dickie Hearts of Tales of the City is another client, as is Ireland Richards, Reese Ganley, and Addy Thompson—and the list goes on. Now, the Moon Valley High School

graduate is heading back to the Valley to

ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

make his next impact.

PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES PATRICK

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

Photo provided

For Rossi, helping people succeed

stepped on it; Tony Rivera, a horse trainer

Rossi originally began as a performer

is second nature. He has a magne-

with Rivera Stables who he recently met

himself, first as a varsity cheerleader,

tism about him that’s contagious. And,

in Scottsdale and is now connecting with

then co-caption of the Moon Valley

even though he’s worked with and

others; or Farrah, a woman he met who

Cheer Squad with Lisa Kerker. Rossi

hobnobbed with some of the biggest

owns the vintage store Sammie & Dannie

also taught cheer camps for high

movie and television stars, he’s the

in Phoenix that he’s now spreading the

schools as staff for the NCA (National

most

word about (it’s also where he’s now

Cheerleader Association), then the

holding his official launch party).

University of Arizona. He was also a

down-to-earth,

go-out-of-his-

way-to-help-you type of person. It doesn’t matter who you are—Lady Gaga at the Academy Awards needing to be guided into the theatre after she

Helping others is just his nature and mission.

competitive Latin ballroom dancer.

Rossi is glad to be back home, among

After switching career paths, his roles

the city that he loves.

including being a personal publicist for

got separated from her group; Reese

“Los Angeles will always be the town

a variety of celebrities, working with

Witherspoon needing help with her

that made me who I am and showed me

major clients handling their celebrity

dress on the red carpet after someone

my career path, but I love Arizona,” he says.

marketing, and more.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

“I was in L.A. since 1982 and I worked my way up from receptionist at AbramsRubaloff to the highest you can go [in the industry], and I’m so proud of that,” he says. Then, one day in 2008, Rossi went to a U2 concert, where he was part of the team that was filming Bono onstage. From where he was seated, he could see the interpreter for the deaf—and he was mesmerized. “I said, ‘I need to learn to do that,’” he says. That Monday, he quit his job, and went back to college to learn sign language, feeling that it was a calling. Of course everything comes full circle, and today, several of Rossi’s clients are deaf actors. He pushes for inclusion in Hollywood, and it has become one of the things for which he’s known. Rossi just enjoys helping people realize their dreams, no matter whether they face challenges hearing or aren’t local to Hollywood. With ROSSI Talent Management, he will be signing kids ages 9 to 18 (18 to play younger parts), and will offer workshops where he will bring in professionals from Los Angeles such as acting coaches, headshot photographers, and stylists to help screen potential talent. The first workshop will be held Sept. 18-19 at Sammie & Dannie. Los Angeles-based photographer Robert “Kaz” Kazandjian will take part, as will Los Angeles-based hair and makeup artist/stylist Wesley O’Neil, acting coaches from Shari Shaw Studios, and scene study specialist Melissa Blanchard. The top 10 children will be called back and signed with his agency for representation. “The workshops are going to be kind of cutthroat, because they need to be realistic, like auditions,” Rossi shares, explaining that he will also be teaching kids and their fami-

a kid have to wait until they’re 18 to do what they want just because

lies that while being in the industry is fun, it

they’re 9 or 10? Let’s give it a shot. This is about giving kids options.”

is also a job. His specialty is sitcoms and movies.

Additionally, Rossi founded the Roll Model Foundation with model and actress Camerone Parker.

As a talent manager, Rossi helps guides

“At the end of the day,” he explains, “you, me, and everyone I know,

his clients’ careers. He isn’t an agent, and

we all want the same thing—we want to be healthy, happy, and raise

won’t be looking to book work for his clients

kind children, and I think that’s my bigger calling of why I’m in town. I

locally, either.

don’t have children, but I’m going to work with these children to help

“This is about making a difference in a kids’ life and a family’s life,” he says. “Why should 26

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

them follow their dreams. That will be my legacy.” To reach Rossi, call 213.280.6351.

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A D O G G O N E

Photo courtesy Captured Moments

JOHNJAY AND BLAKE VAN ES TALK ABOUT FAMILY, AND THE EVOLUTION OF #LOVEPUP 32

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

ARTICLE MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Photo courtesy Captured Moments

G O O D

IT ALL STARTED WITH A CHIHUAHUA. Although, really, it is the essence of who the

and when the chihuahua saw them, it was like

Van Es family is that turned what could have

magic, like it was meant to be,” Van Es shares. “I

been a one-time call to help into a mission that,

had goosebumps.”

years later, is not only an integral part of the Valley, but spreading to other states.

F A M I L Y

“When these people saw the chihuahua,

After that, listeners began reaching out more and more often when they saw stray

But back to the chihuahua.

dogs. The couple quickly educated them-

It was 2014 and Johnjay Van Es—of The

selves about the laws of strays and stray

Johnjay & Rich Show, which first launched in

holds, and soon, found themselves contin-

2001, moved to KISS-FM in Phoenix in 2006,

ually taking in dogs and then finding those

and is now syndicated in select markets

dogs forever families. The couple also began

nationwide—received a message from a lis-

working with other local rescues.

tener that they had found a chihuahua in the area of Van Es’s home. Since he was on the air, Van Es reached out to his wife, Blake, to ask if she could go outside and catch it. “The listener was in the middle of moving and saw the dog and asked if we could pick it up since

By 2018, they made the venture formal, creating the LovePup Foundation (#LovePup), a 501(c)(3) dog rescue organization. For seven years, they ran it out of their home. “We had 30 something dogs in our home at all times,” Van Es shares. Seven of those dogs are the family’s own pups.

they were about to leave,” Van Es explains. “So I

The rescues were all taken in and cared for

said, ‘Blake, I’m on the air, can you pick it up? And so

by the Van Es family—Johnjay, Blake, and their

she picks up the dog. She takes a picture of it and

sons Jake, now 18; Kemp, now 17; and Dutch,

it’s so cute, so I put it on my Instagram page and

now 15—living with the family, and even sleep-

asked if anyone wanted it. So many people did.”

ing in the kids’ beds. Blake was instrumental in

Van Es went through the social media profiles

caring for the dogs and running the rescue, as

of everyone who was interested, and picked

were the boys. It’s become a true family calling

someone he thought would be a good match.

and passion.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

A DOGGONE GOOD FAMILY (CONTINUED)

BEYOND THE PUPS Beyond #LovePup, there’s the Johnjay & Rich #LoveUp Foundation, created by Van Es and Rich Berra, to promote the #LoveUp Movement of spreading love and kindness. Just a few ways they’ve done that is by granting Christmas wishes where they give presents and pay bills (something they also try to do all year), partnering with Safeway to give away $25,000 to foster families, partnering with Lerner & Rowe to give away 5,000 turkeys in Tucson and Central Phoenix for Thanksgiving, helping In 2019, the couple decided to move the rescue out of their home, realizing that it was time for an actual shelter. Through donations, one was able to be built. Now completed, the shelter

foster children, and so much more. “With #LoveUp, we just try to remind people to do nice things for others,” says Van Es.

is currently open by appointment only. Dogs are housed both at the shelter and foster homes, and the organization has grown to also include a staff, a board, and volunteers. While many may find that having a well-known, full-time radio job and running a dog shelter—as well as raising three boys and being involved in their lives and sports pursuits—is enough, it wasn’t for the Van Es family.

FAMILY TIME The Van Es family themselves are just, well, nice. Big-hearted, they work together to give back, but also have plenty of interests of their own, as well. “Our oldest, Jake, just graduated from high school and is going to the University of Arizona,” Van Es says. “He loves MMA, and

“The dog shelter is a program, but we’re a small shelter,” Blake

he works at a movie theater here in town. He comes home from

says. “So, we wanted to help get to the root of the problem, which

work every day with a smile on his face. He loves fast cars, Star

is stray dogs.”

Wars, and is just a beautiful, incredible human being.

Their foundation teamed up with Maricopa County Animal

“Kemp is a junior in high school and plays basketball. He trav-

Care & Control to microchip every dog that gets adopted, and

els all around the country playing basketball and trains two-to-

they provided officers with microchip scanners so they can scan

three times a day. He hopes to play in college.

stray dogs they come across for microchips in order to get them back to their owners quickly. The couple also found that people were surrendering their

“Our youngest, Dutch, is going to be a freshman in high school, and he also loves basketball, as well as video games. He will be playing basketball on the freshman team this year.”

dogs to them because the dog had a tumor or other condition,

As for Johnjay and Blake, the couple met in 1992 and will be

and they couldn’t afford the needed care. In response, they cre-

celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this September. They

ated a program that takes care of a dog’s medical bills so that the

enjoy spending time together when the kids are at school, after

dog can stay with its family—all for free.

Van Es signs off the radio for the day, often taking time for their

Speaking of free, every #LovePup dog is seen by a vet, is up-todate on shots, and is altered and microchipped before being

Taco Tuesday lunch date at Protein House (other local favorite spots include Tokyo Joe’s, Steak 44, and Rosati’s Pizzeria).

placed with a family, and there are still no adoption fees. It’s simply up to the adopter if they’d like to donate to the organization. Always looking for bigger ways to give back, a few years ago the couple launched the #LovePup Family Fest.

WHY GIVING BACK IS SO IMPORTANT TO THEM Asked why they spend so much time giving back, Blake says, “We’re blessed. We’re blessed with a platform, we’re blessed as

“There are a lot of rescues in town, and we provide food,

a family, and we were sitting in church one day and a pastor from

leashes, and more, and we raise money for them,” Van Es

Denver was speaking. He talked about when you die, what are people

explains. “We are very community-oriented, and it’s not just

going to miss you for? For us, as a family, it’s important to give back.”

about #LovePup. So, we created this event where we team up

Van Es nods in agreement.

with iHeart radio, we have a musical guest, interactive stations,

“When you die, will you be missed in your community?” he

dog adoptions, and more.” The first event was expected to draw 3,000 attendees. Ten thousand showed up. Today, the #LovePup Family Fest is in five cities, with others potentially entering the mix as well. 34

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

reiterates. “It’s about making an impact.” For

information,

visit

LovePupFoundation.org,

LoveUpFoundation.org, and find Van Es on all social channels at @johnjayvanes. For those interested in helping, #LovePup is always accepting donations and can utilize volunteers.

The family in Maui.

The #LovePup dog shelter.

CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

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scottsda le -based be k ind people project seeks to spread kindness

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

ARTICLE TERESA TRAVERSE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

SPREAD 38

LIKE MANY GREAT IDEAS, THE ORIGINS OF THE BE KIND PEOPLE PROJECT BEGAN AT A PARTY. Starting in 2003, Paradise Valley resident Marcia Meyer would hold an annual party dubbed “Holiday Crafts, Cheers, and Laughs.” The main purpose of the event was to extend gestures of kindness to community members. The event grew from 29 women in 2003 to 575 people in 2011. During that time, Meyer had began creating

ultimately spurred the Be Kind Pledge and its emphasis on kindness.

products and giving them to groups in need,

“This is a true organization that started from

like cancer caregivers and moms of children in

an organic need and actually from pure motives

the hospitals. One year, the group decorated

because all we were doing was extending good

3,000 pairs of white shoes to send to women in

to those in the community,” says Meyer.

Guatemala. In 2011, the group decided to honor

Meyer was a Spanish teacher in the early ‘70s

10,000 teachers. During that same year, Meyer’s

who left the profession to work for PetSmart as

granddaughter Grace was a student at Cherokee

part of the senior executive management team.

Elementary School in classes for children with

In her own words, she “failed” at retirement, and

special needs. Meyer thought about how she’d

now serves as the Scottsdale-based nonprofit’s

want other students to treat Grace. That thought

founder, chairman, and CEO. “Being a mom and grandmother, I knew that the best way to get to children is to get to them while they’re young,” she says. “I wanted to make sure that kids in elementary school had a foundation for how to treat others.” The organization began in Metro Phoenix and Kansas City, Kansas, where Meyer’s sister lived. In 2012, Meyer established an official nonprofit following a trip to California. “We went to Los Angeles and went to several schools in the Watts district, with our hip hop dancers, and we gave gifts to teachers there. And it was really at that point in time, when I saw children in Watts transform in front of our eyes when they got a positive action, that I looked at my husband and said, ‘OK, we have to do something with this. I don’t really know what you need to start a 501(c)(3), but I guess I’m about to learn,’” she says.

CONTINUED >

KINDNESS

NONPROFIT REACHES CHILDREN VIA A VARIETY OF PROGRAMS THAT AIM TO BOLSTER SOCIAL SKILLS

CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

SCOTTSDALE-BASED BE KIND PEOPLE PROJECT (CONTINUED)

Today, Be Kind programs are in every state of the United States, 10 countries, and more than 3,500 cities. The group started by thanking teachers and teaching kids how to be kind. The organization still does that, but has also added programs that address issues such as health and wellness and cyberbullying. Meyer says she listened to teachers and kids to decide how to best reach them and developed projects to do just that. The organization speaks individually with each school it serves. “Because we teach relationships, we’re a business built on relationships,” says Meyer. “We literally speak with every school that we serve, and talk to them about, ‘What are your needs? What program will work best for you? What are you worried about what age group?’ and then we have so many offerings that schools can generally tailor things. And even after we choose a program, when we go for a school assembly, for instance, we tailor that to the school. We tailor it to what the school motto is. So we’re highly relational.” Although the Be Kind project now has many different programs, the group is perhaps best known for the Be Kind Pledge. The pledge includes 10 different social and emotional pillars such as “I pledge

Marcia Meyer

to be positive, be thankful, and be considerate.” Another program that’s been a part of the organization from the beginning includes the Be Kind

Another standout program is the Be Kind

Break, a free online resource where teachers receive

Crew—a group of professional urban dancers and

monthly resources they can use in their classrooms.

educators who seek to connect with students via

The group’s expansion is primarily based on need.

dancing, poetry, and spoken word.

“We just keep thinking that if we do what’s right

“What kids don’t need is somebody else coming

and do what’s right for kids, that things will grow,”

in and just talking to them. They get that all day

Meyer says. “I think the most important thing that

long. So we communicate through dance and the

we do is the social and emotional learning foun-

arts; therefore, they pay attention,” says Meyer.

dation. And everything that we do is an iteration

“When something comes from someone who can

of social and emotional learning. And it’s putting

do a backflip, when information comes, all of a sud-

different variants on it, so that kids don’t get bored,

den, kids listen to it.”

and there’s always something new and fresh.” One of the newer offerings is the app-based program

Like many, Meyer finds her community-oriented work very rewarding.

Move Across America. In an effort to encourage physi-

“I see a difference,” says Meyer. “We can see it

cal activity, kids plug in their age and the app tells them

happen in front of our eyes when we give a program,

how many steps they should take. When kids reach

and that’s very rewarding. And then short-term and

certain “locations” in the country, they earn a prize.

long-term, we see a change in school culture. I wish everybody understood how to be kind. If we can affect the children we serve, and they can influence others, then we’re ahead of the game. It’s really the kids and their learning that are so rewarding.” TheBeKindPeopleProject.org

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

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APEX Sports Camps Finds a New Home at ‘The Pyramid’ AT APEX, KIDS PLAY SPORTS AND MAKE MEMORIES THAT CAN LAST A LIFETIME

ARTICLE TERESA TRAVERSE PHOTOGRAPHY SPENCER FAHLMAN

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

"A P EX aims t o be a fun, safe pl ace where kids c an be kids and build t heir confidence and t heir skills on and off t he court. I feel so blessed t o be able t o give t hem t he memories."

LIKE MANY BUSINESS OWNERS, MIMI

court out of it. I think this is doable,’” says

SOMMERS WAS HURT BY THE PAN-

Sommers of the DreamTeam’s new home.

DEMIC. She and her husband opened the

“I joke about that it was ‘divine timing.’

DreamTeam Academy youth basketball pro-

Here we are in a church.”

gram in Scottsdale Airpark back in 2017 after

So the couple got to work on transform-

their son showed an interest in the sport.

ing the space into a climate-controlled,

After three years in business, they were

22,000-square-foot sports facility.

finally turning a profit. But then COVID hit.

APEX offers instruction primarily in bas-

Sommers ran private training sessions for

ketball. After-school programs are offered

nine months before she closed the Airpark

Monday through Friday from 3-6 p.m. for kids

facility on Dec. 1. She also put out the word

ages 6 to 11. Kids can enjoy a snack, have

that she was searching for a new space.

homework coaching, socialize with other

About two weeks after she closed, she got a

kids, play board games, and participate in

call from the AZ Kings Volleyball Club asking

one-hour basketball drills twice a week.

if she wanted to share space with them at “the pyramid building” on Shea Boulevard.

During the summer or over school breaks, APEX also offers multi-sports camps includ-

“I took it as a big sign,” says Sommers,

ing basketball, volleyball, badminton, pick-

founder of DreamTeam Academy and

leball, dodgeball, NERF football, Wiffle ball,

APEX Sports Camps, and the co-founder

indoor soccer, and even chess for boys and

of Peak Basketball.

girls ages 6 to 14. And, there’s a game room

Sommers had driven by the building for

where kids play Xbox, color, or sing.

years and always wondered what it was.

As far as instruction goes, all the coaches

Constructed in 1968, the building is a former

are professional, semi-professional, or col-

church. When she and her husband toured,

lege athletes at division one or two colleges.

the building still had a pulpit and pews. But,

They all undergo background checks.

the couple saw potential. In addition to having a ministry, the former landlord was also an NFL player.

“We really have great leadership,” Sommers says. Year-round kids can participate in club bas-

“The energy here was just so spectacu-

ketball and in afternoon group skills building,

lar that I looked at my husband and said,

Peak All Stars, where they can practice and

‘I really think we can we can make some-

prepare to try out for a club team.

thing out of this as long as we get a full

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

APEX SPORTS CAMPS (CONTINUED)

Although kids at APEX are spending their time learning how to play a sport and then practicing it, they’re also developing skills that will serve them later on in life. “We’re really building friendships, memories, skills. We’re building confidence through sports,” Sommers says. “We have a code of conduct that we teach. We remind the kids to be kind and be respectful. We have a three strike rule. If they are really hard to manage, you know, through positive redirection or positive discipline, we have to let them go after three strikes, because it’s just not fun to the other kids who are there. So we run this really tight ship.” The building opened on June 7 and debuted its summer camp program. Overall, APEX aims to be “a fun, safe place where kids can be kids and build their confidence and their skills on and off the court,” Sommers says. “I feel so blessed to be able to give them the memories.” ApexSportsCamps.com

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

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DRVIER’S NOTEBOOK

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

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CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

TRAVEL DESTINATION

home on the road ARTICLE NADINE BUBECK

PHOTOGRAPHY NADINE BUBECK

BUCKET-LIST HOT SPOTS FOR FAMILIES

TWO STATES, TWO BUCKET-LIST WORTHY DESTI-

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NATIONS—BOTH WITHIN REACH IF YOU LOVE THE

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with nature’s natural beauty.

As much as a luxurious, fun, and relaxing family vaca-

Sunriver accommodations are plush and spacious; book

tion sounds like an oxymoron, allow these gems to sway

a Lodge Villa Suite with an upstairs loft bedroom, two bath-

you otherwise.

rooms, a full kitchen, living area, fireplace, and patio. Patio

Stop number one: Sunriver Resort in Central Oregon.

views are picturesque, set amidst grassy fields and among

Sunriver is a unique hot spot set in the foothills of the

the resort’s four golf courses. With Mount Bachelor as your

Cascade Mountains. The 3,000-plus-acre property

backdrop, you’ll fall in love with the at-home, yet chic, feel.

Photo by Kiralee Jones

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

Filling your days will be easy. First, connect with the Sunriver Marina and opt for a 3-mile, self-guided float down the Deschutes River; the ambiance is nothing short of surreal. The water is gentle and easy to navigate as you pass the Sunriver stables and spot plenty of wildlife. Earlier this year, Sunriver opened its Aquatic Center, which is a

Stop number two: Whitefish, Montana. You can hop a non-stop

mecca for families. The place is flawless and fun-filled; waterslides,

flight via Mesa Gateway Airport, or drive from Sunriver—it’s about 10

a lazy river, plenty of pools, cabanas, and more. Steps from the main

hours. There’s a saying about Montana: it’s where the mountains call

lodge, the indoor-outdoor facility also has a large patio and lawn for

you home. And, there’s no truer statement.

grassy game playing.

Stay and play at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake, nestled between

Bend, Oregon is a quick drive from Sunriver, and one of its most

majestic mountains and pristine waters and Montana’s only AAA

sought-after attractions is Tumalo Falls. Sure, the falls are beautiful,

Four Diamond-rated resort. The Lodge is truly a special place

but what makes this destination extra special is that you can hike

situated between Whitefish Lake and the 28-acre Viking Creek

underneath Tumalo. Yes, you read right… hiking under the falls is a

Wetland Preserve—breathtaking scenery. Convenient to Montana’s

wet and wild experience, but there’s a great trail leading behind the

greatest attractions, the Lodge is everything and more for a true

rampant water—and it’s quite exhilarating.

family escape.

CONTINUED >

Glacier National Park Photo by Kiralee Jones

CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED) Sunriver Resort

Exposing your family to road trip adventures will allow you to be a kid with your kids—memories are the greatest gift you can give your children, and yourself. The Lodge offers condo-style accommodations, with many units

The Glacier Park West Entrance is less than 45 minutes away…

being two stories stocked with comfort and necessities: a full kitchen,

and it’s stunning. The best family hike: Avalanche Lake Trail, doable

a washer/dryer, multiple bedrooms, and an outside seating area. The

for all ages. Leading you through a real vast rainforest, you’ll arrive at

grounds are magnificent—lush grass, the crystal-clear lake, and plenty

the lake surrounded by snowcaps and waterfalls. The park’s “Going

of amenities: a lakefront pool, a tiki bar, restaurants, and a marina.

to the Sun Road” opens mid-summer, which connects west to east

Speaking of the marina, spend a day on a speedboat; available to rent,

Glacier Park. Should you be there when it’s open, take the radical

you can explore the lake at your speed of choice… just don’t forget to

route and opt for eastside hikes: Running Eagle and Aster Falls.

rent a tube along with it. Your kids will love a tubing escapade.

Moral of the story: people don’t take trips; trips take people.

In the winter, you can indulge in snow sports at Whitefish Mountain

Exposing your family to road trip adventures will allow you to be a

Resort, a quick drive from the Lodge. However, Whitefish Mountain

kid with your kids—memories are the greatest gift you can give your

is just as fun in the sun as it is in the snow. You can ride the ski lift, go

children, and yourself.

on the Alpine Slide, and—should your children be adventure-seekers—check out the ropes course and zipline. 52

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

And remember… country roads, they’ll take you home. To places… you belong.

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SALE PRICE

5815 N Saguaro Rd

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6022 E Cholla Ln

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4.5

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660.74

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566.91

6010 E Naumann Dr

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6.5

8,306

710.33

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7,267

797.99

6862 E Joshua Tree Ln

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6,020

830.56

5700 E Mcdonald Dr 7

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3.5

6,000

800.00

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9,726

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473.07

22,000

550.00

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current artworks featured in This

well as exclusive specials from par-

cuisine served with Spanish wines

Just In will rotate out to feature new

ticipating restaurants. The show is

and sangria. SanctuaryAZ.com

works. PhxArt.org

free and open to the public from 7:30-

Sangria—traditional

Spanish

of every month. HighStreetAZ.com

12, 19, 26

MAKE IT! WITH PHXART AND PACHANGA PRESS

FLIP ORLEY: UNMASKED

Phoenix Art Museum partnered with

Tempe Improv

local printmaking studio Pachanga

temporary Navajo weavers at this

Comic/Hypnotist Flip Orley returns

Press for a virtual Make It! workshop

exhibit at Heard Museum, including

to his home turf at the Tempe

series inspired by the Museum’s

Marlowe Katoney, Marilou Schultz,

Improv with his new show Flip Orley:

special exhibitions and permane

Barbara Teller Ornelas, and Lynda

Unmasked, featuring new surprises

collection. In this last of the sessions,

Teller Pete. In their own words, weav-

and old favorites. When Orley puts

participants will make a photobook

ers share their sources of inspiration

his volunteers to sleep, fun and

inspired by the work of social-docu-

and the way family heritage, tech-

laughter is on the horizon—and the

mentary photographer Marion Palfi.

nique, materials, and knowledge have

volunteers become the stars of the

Registration is required. PhxArt.org

built up over generations of learning

show. TempeImprov.com

10 a.m., and is held the first Saturday

1-SEPT 26 ALL AT ONCE: THE GIFT OF NAVAJO WEAVING Heard Museum

View 46 exquisite textiles from con-

to come together “all at once” under the weaver’s hand. Heard.org

1-SEPT 26

14, 28

13 SONORAN SIPPIN'

Virtual

27 SUNSET SUMMER NIGHTS Royal Palms Resort and Spa

Desert Botanical Garden

FEARLESS FASHION: RUDI GERNREICH

As the sun sets in the desert, the

Wrap up your week with a botani-

nighttime

Phoenix Art Museum

cal-inspired welcome drink—a non-al-

Royal Palms Resort and Spa hosts

Through more than 80 ensembles and

coholic option is available, as well, at

an evening filled with specialized

a collection of original sketches, let-

this all-ages event—and night out in

menu creations and live music. This

ters, personal papers, photographs,

the Garden. Stroll the trails as you soak

month's theme—the last in the sum-

press clippings, and newly filmed

in the desert vibes and iconic sunsets

mer series—is Jazz Under the Stars,

oral histories, this exhibit explores

all while enjoying music by local DJs

and features music from House

the significant social and cultural

and musicians. A full bar will be avail-

of Stairs. Tickets sold at the door.

impact of the work of Rudolph “Rudi”

able in two Garden locations. DBG.org

RoyalPalmsHotel.com

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

energy

comes

alive.

27 HERMAN'S HERMITS STARRING PETER NOONE Talking Stick Resort

Universally regarded as one of Rock 'N' Roll’s finest and most versatile entertainers, Peter Noone is a star of the stage, screen, and record. Noone’s performances are the stuff of legend, deftly delivering a broad palette of music, all gems that, through his voice, defined a generation. His hits include, "I’m Henry VIII, I Am,” and “There's a Kind of Hush.” TalkingStickResort.com

28 ANIMANIACS IN CONCERT Madison Center for the Arts

Re-live your “younger years” and see

your

favorite

Animaniacs

characters sing live on stage in Animaniacs in Concert, a musical revue starring original cast members Rob Paulsen (Yakko, and Pinky from Pinky & the Brain), accompanied by Emmy-winning composer Randy Rogel, who wrote and created many of those memorable songs you still can’t remove from your brain. TheMadison.org

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ ParadiseValley using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think. CityLifestyle.com/ParadiseValley

LOCAL’S ONLY TEACHERS AND AN ENTREPRENEUR COMBINE ENTERTAINMENT AND EDUCATION TO INSPIRE CHILDHOOD LEARNING AND INTERACTION

ARTICLE ALISON BAILIN BATZ PHOTOGRAPHY SPENCER FAHLMAN

OPE N I NG ‘ TH E VAU LT ’ ALLISON

BOSWORTH

MOVED

THE

VALLEY AS AN INFANT, ATTENDING HOPI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, INGLESIDE MIDDLE SCHOOL, AND ARCADIA HIGH SCHOOL BEFORE VENTURING OFF TO COLLEGE TO STUDY TEACHING. “Upon graduating, I began teaching second grade at my alma mater, Hopi, in 1999,” says Bosworth. In 2007, Livia Rice joined Hopi as a kindergarten teacher. “I got to know Allison professionally, and then was thrilled to have my own daughter in her class in 2013,” says Rice, noting their friendship continued to grow outside of school at a monthly pizza night with a group of teacher friends. Fast-forward to 2020 and the struggle all teachers had amid the pandemic. “To say the past 18 months have been tough would be an understatement,” says Bosworth. “It

“In June, we opened our doors as The Vault Edutainment Hub,”

was just as hard on kids, who are experiencing

says Bosworth, noting that she and Rice both exited Hopi to

learning gaps from lack of in-person interaction.”

focus on the business full-time.

As the pandemic dragged on, the teachers got closer.

The membership-based program offers children from kindergarten to fifth grade a safe space for homework assistance and

“One night, I was telling Allison that if I won the

small group learning sessions with certified teachers, as well as

lottery, I would open my own school,” says Rice.

supervised gaming and technology time, group reading, healthy

“Allison had the same dream.”

snacks, traditional game play, computer skills development, and

Casual discussion soon turned to the devel-

even arts and crafts.

opment of a business plan, and the duo finding a

“As a parent, I wanted a place where my son and his friends

partner in Alexi Venneri, co-founder of Digital Air

could get help learning how to safely game and even get help

Strike, whose son was in Rice’s class.

with homework after school. The Vault helps control the amount

“When Livia approached me for business advice in December 2020, I shared an idea that I’d been thinking about launching for a few years: a supervised gaming

By spring 2021, the trio found a building in Old Town Scottsdale and began customizing it to fit their unique needs.

of time they are on devices, and saves parents from having to buy the latest computers or Oculus VR,” says Venneri. The trio’s vision is to expand into other parts of Scottsdale

and virtual reality hub for kids,” says Venneri. “Putting

and

the two concepts together seemed like a natural fit.”

TheVaultEdutainment.com

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | August 2021

Arcadia,

perhaps

eventually

expanding

statewide.

VILLAGE AT SEVEN DESERT MOUNTAIN

cullumdif ference.com