Scottsdale, AZ February 2023 by City Lifestyle

Johnna DiasWatson Goes From Stage to TV Screen F O O D + B E V E R AG E

FIN DIN G SWEET SU CCESS LI F E + C U LTU R E

PERFECT DATE I DE A S TR AV E L

A RO M ANTI C GETAWAY

F E B R UA RY 2 02 3

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Events and Successes

February 2023 PUBLISHER

Tammy Fellows | tammy.fellows@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Whew. Are you ready for this month? Get ready and take a deep breath, because we guarantee you’ll be on the go every day. We’ve got the WM Phoenix Open, Super Bowl LVII (read our story for the info about its related events!), Concours in the Hills, Arizona Fine Art EXPO, Celebration of Fine Art, Innings Festival, Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show—and so much more. And, that’s on top of the usual list of galas, gatherings, shows, and concerts around town. When I think of all that’s going on, I realize how lucky I am to live here. People from around the world will travel to the Valley this month to enjoy these events. And for us, they’re just in our backyard. While the visitors are here, they’ll eat at our amazing restaurants, many of which are helmed by top-notch celebrity chefs. They’ll shop at our momand-pop stores and our flagship designer destinations. They’ll take in the beauty of our majestic mountains and stunning sunsets. And they’ll stay at our world-renowned resorts. All in the place that we call home. In addition to being the destination for amazing events, the Valley is also home to amazing opportunities, such as its robust theater programs. This month we introduce you to Johnna Dias-Watson, who grew up performing in shows here and is now part of the incredible cast of the new hit television show “Wednesday.” We also give you some perfect date ideas just in time for Valentine’s Day. And, we share a “sweet” story about two local friends who founded the now-iconic brownie company Fairytale Brownies. I look forward to seeing you out and about this month! Enjoy this fabulous place we call home. Yours,

Michelle Glicksman michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com ADMINISTR ATIVE DIR ECTOR

Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com SALES SUPPORT DIR ECTOR

Gina Ziehmer | gina.ziehmer@citylifestyle.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jen David | jen.david@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Alison Bailin Batz, Michelle Talsma Everson, Susan Lanier-Graham, Georgann Yara CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Sophia DuBois

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @SCOTTSDALECIT YLIFEST YLE

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Scottsdale City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Scottsdale 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 Scottsdale City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

Driver’s Notebook

18 From Scottsdale Stages to TV Screens

Lifestyle Letter

Expert Help

City Scene

Home Update

Business Monthly

Events

Our Town

Back Stage

Local Limelight

Local’s Choice

LI FE + C U LT U R E

Travel Journal

T R AV EL

Must See

Giving Back

Johnna Dias-Watson Embraces Her New Role in the Netflix Smash Show “Wednesday”

24 A Sweet Story

Lifelong Best Friends’ Quest to Ditch Corporate Life Leads to Their Real-Life Success Story

30 Dreamy Dates

Foolproof Ways to Surprise Your Sweetie

LI FE + C U LT U R E ENT ERTA I NMENT FO O D + B EV ER AGE

LI FE + C U LT U R E ENT ERTA I NMENT

40 Super Bowl LVII

The Game, the Events, the Parties O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Michael Shelford Actress Johnna Dias-Watson.

AU TO + M A R IN E

HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS HO ME + D E SIG N

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Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

HAUTE MEDIA

1: Daniel and Tara Franks, and Ashley and Zach Crowell at Ryan House’s White Christmas Gala. 2: Kristina Brown, Karen and Tom Jarvis, and Benjamin Brown at Ryan House’s White Christmas Gala. 3: Guests at the 23rd annual Phoenix Children’s Golf Tournament, held at Troon North Golf Club.

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Several Local Restaurants Make OpenTable's Top 100 Restaurants for 2022 List Four Valley restaurants were recently named to OpenTable's list of Top 100 Restaurants in Arizona. Scottsdale's Ocean 44 and Dominick's Steakhouse nabbed two of the spots, while Phoenix's Steak 44 and The Henry were the other two. Sedona restaurant Mariposa - Latin Inspired Grill was the only other restaurant in Arizona that made the list. According to OpenTable, the list is generated from diner reviews. Qualifying restaurants were then scored and sorted according to the overall score. OpenTable.com

Buck & Rider Opens Second Location

Tommy Bahama Launches Brunch Service

Buck & Rider, known for its topnotch ingredients and commitment to flying in the freshest seafood seven days a week from around the world, recently debuted its highly anticipated second location on the southeast corner of Scottsdale and Mayo at The Shops at Chauncey Ranch. The 10,000-square-foot restaurant was inspired by the old seafood canaries on the West and East coasts, and also includes an open chef's kitchen and a 10-seat sushi bar. BuckAndRider.com

Tommy Bahama recently launched a brunch service that features a seasonal amuse, Lump Blue Crab & Shrimp Fried Rice, Pecanwood Bacon, Schreiner's Chicken Sausage, and then a choice of an entree. Selections include the Truffle Frittata, Wagyu Breakfast Burger, Huevos Rancheros, and Steak & Eggs. A Bananas Foster French Toast is served as dessert. TommyBahama.com

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

letter from the PUBLISHER

“A Return to Love.” I just finished reading this book. It’s not a new one, but a great one! If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it. If you’ve read it, it’s worth reading 20 times again! It seems appropriate to bring this up as we are in the “month of love”—February. This book encapsulates so well what we really need in this world—love. Those who really know me are well aware of my passion around this topic. It’s so very important to embrace this. Miracles happen through love, kindness, and a serving attitude. Some of my favorite quotes from the book, “A Return to Love”: “Miracle-workers are not in the business only to make money; they are in business to inject love into the world.” “Love makes you more attractive.” “Joy has no cost. Do what you love. Do what makes your heart sing and never do it for the money.” “The key to happiness is the decision to be happy.” “Love waits on welcome, not on time.” All of these ideas stem from one principle—love. Love big, love unapologetically, and love with an open heart, and then you shall find peace. Be grateful, be kind, and live and love BIG, Tammy Fellows Owner/Publisher

O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

Photo by Michael Shelford

B ACK STAGE | ENTERTA INME NT

F R O M S C OT T S DA L E S TAG E S TO TV SCREENS When the call came, Scottsdale native Johnna Dias-Watson had just gotten her visa and moved to London. She was still settling into her new place when she learned she had landed a role in a new show called “Wednesday.” She was told they’d be filming in August. On Aug. 1, production called and said she’d need to be in Romania, where the show would film, on Aug. 3. Whew. So, Dias-Watson quickly packed some bags, figuring she wouldn’t be gone long. “[This] was the first big job I booked; the first streaming network gig,” she says. “We didn’t know exactly how long I’d be out there. I thought I’d have breaks to come back, so I just packed some stuff. I thought I’d be back by October, the latest.” She ended up being in Romania for seven months, through March 2022, and appearing in all eight episodes of the show.

FILMING ‘WEDNESDAY’ Dias-Watson had been cast as Divina in what is now the hit Netflix show “Wednesday,” working alongside such stars as Jenna Ortega, Gwendoline Christie, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Christina Ricci. “I’m backing up [the character of] Bianca Barclay (played by Joy Sunday). I also have a brother, and he’s also over her shoulder. We’re supposed to be the cool kids, led by Bianca.

Wednesday goes to school and butts heads with Bianca pretty quickly,” Dias-Watson explains. “I loved being the mean girl. It’s so much fun. It’s hilarious, too, because I can’t imagine glaring [at people when I] first meet them. And when we meet Wednesday, we just glare at her. I've been told I have a good glare!” Regarding her character, she says, “I love the idea of being this complicated boost—I’m boosting Bianca’s character—but at the same time, I’m building my own. That was so much fun to play.” Dias-Watson is grateful that she’s had the opportunity to work with the incredible talents in the show. “It was really cool,” she says. “I never thought my first job would be with Gwendoline Christie or Catherine Zeta-Jones. I just didn’t. That’s the kind of thing you joke about with friends. … I just tried to be nothing but excited, and to soak it all up and learn whatever I could from them. And we got so lucky. They were so nice. Everyone out there was incredible.”

STARTING OUT Dias-Watson was just 4 years old when she had her first role on the stage in a production of “The Jungle Book.” “I literally just came out and held a sign, but I thought it was so cool. I got a costume fitting and got to be onstage and just loved it,” she says.

JOHNNA DIAS-WATSON EMBRACES HER NEW ROLE IN THE NETFLIX SMASH SHOW "WEDNESDAY" ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN

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Photo by Michael Shelford

Photo by Jake Stewart

“And everyone loves kids onstage, so they were cheering, and I’m like, ‘Wow, I’m really good! I’m really good!” she continues with a laugh. Of course, it wasn’t always smooth sailing from her stage debut to her role in “Wednesday.” “I didn’t even always get cast in the shows!” she reveals as she talks about growing up as part of the Valley’s theater world. Still, she spent most of her time performing at theaters such as Greasepaint Theater, Hale Theater, Southwest Shakespeare, Nearly Naked, and Childsplay. Her first lead was as Belle in “Beauty & The Beast” at Greasepaint Theater. “Belle is a dream role,” she says of that show. “And I made some really good friends in that cast.” One of her other favorite shows that she was part of here in the Valley was “Next to Normal,” which she performed in when she was 16. “I was always the actor, and I was never the singer,” she says. “I always found that vocally I wasn’t quite on par with some of the other girls my age. I wanted the scenes between the songs and the dialogue. In this show, I really got to act and think about the circumstances for the first time. I also played against a professional actor. So, I loved that play. Also, I was 16 and got to play 16 with all its emotions!” The last show Dias-Watson performed in before leaving Arizona was “Nevermore.” “It was interesting because there’s a lot of Edgar Allen Poe in ‘Wednesday,’” she says. “That was my last show in Arizona and, subsequently, the theme of my first big job.”

MOVING FROM THE U.S. Dias-Watson had been part of a summer program in London when she was 16, so when she was 17 and applying for colleges, she applied to a variety of schools in the U.S. but also decided to apply to the Royal Welsh

B ACK STAGE | ENTERTA INME NT

On set for "Wednesday." Courtesy Johnna Dias-Watson

As Belle in "Beauty & The Beast" at Greasepaint Theater. Photo by Laura Durant

“I’m just so grateful. I haven’t seen that replicated anywhere else. That’s what I spent my life doing when I was there.”

College of Drama & Music in Wales, which she says had been the top drama school in the U.K. for about five years at the time she first applied. When she got in, she knew she would attend. “I wasn’t nervous at all,” she says. “I was just so excited. I love Arizona, but it’s interesting—being away makes me love it more.” Her parents supported her path, especially since her mom— Maureen Dias-Watson, who owns the Valley’s Greasepaint Theater— had also been bitten by the acting bug when she was young. Dias-Watson says her experience at Royal Welsh was unmatched. Though originally planning to move back to the United States after her time in college, she was approached by an agent while she was there. “We had a meeting and kept in touch, and then he offered to sign me. I hadn't been expecting a chance to stay in the U.K. I knew I had wanted to, but didn't think it was possible.” Then the pandemic hit. When everything was shut down, Dias-Watson came back to Arizona for a while. During that time, she performed in a small

role in one project and then a lead role in a feature film that her friend, fellow Arizona native and theater kid Casey Likes (who recently debuted the lead role in the Broadway show “Almost Famous”), had written. When Dias-Watson’s visa was approved in April 2021, her agent in the U.K. began submitting her for auditions—one of which was the “Wednesday” project.

THE VALLEY AND THEATER Dias-Watson credits her theater foundation here in the Valley for her early love of the industry and the experiences that led her to where she is today. “The opportunities that you get as a young person aspiring to become an actor in Arizona are unmatched by other smaller cities in the U.S. We’re not New York or Los Angeles, but we have probably more than 10 theaters that young people can audition for and get into at any level. The opportunities that you get genuinely are incredible. I’m just so grateful. I haven’t seen that replicated anywhere else. That’s what I spent my life doing when I was there.”

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A SWEET STORY

ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOPHIA DUBOIS

Lifelong Best Friends’ Quest to Ditch Corporate Life Leads to Their Real-Life Success Story

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

They are native Phoenicians who met in a Madison School District kindergarten classroom and stayed best buddies through high school, college, and adulthood. So it makes sense that when Eileen Joy Spitalny and David Kravetz were seeking new careers, they took their friendship from personal to professional. “We were frustrated about the same time. It seems like this corporate route is not our passion,” Spitalny says of their discussions

more than 30 years ago, recalling that they said, “Maybe we should start our own company ...” Their blockbuster Fairytale Brownies empire is the result of that conversation. What started as baking brownies out of a friend’s catering kitchen in Old Town Scottsdale in 1992 has become a full-fledged fudgey confection operation that churns out 12 brownie varieties, two sugar-free renditions, four blondie flavors, and six cookie varieties in their own

standalone baking, packaging, and shipping space. About seven million brownies are baked here each year. It all started with a family recipe. When Spitalny and Kravetz were growing up, Kravetz’s mother made brownies from scratch for them as an after-school treat. When the pair was contemplating their business model, they chose that brownie as its core. CONTINUED > FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S C OT TS DA L E

She gave them her recipe for free. They changed the formula slightly, using Belgian chocolate as the centerpiece. At first, they sold the brownies to coffee shops. They then took them to farmers’ markets and street fairs. Spitalny cashed in her 401(k), and neither she nor Kravetz took a paycheck. They paid Spitalny’s then-boyfriend and now-husband, Michael Spitalny, minimum wage as Fairytale’s first baker. “That was the only way he’d get to see me,” she says, laughing. Soon, out-of-state customers wanted the brownies shipped, which sparked direct sales. They were able to finally pay themselves, and when the company broke the seven-figure sales mark, the aha moment of what they had created hit. Approaching the corporate clientele propelled the company even further, as what had become the company’s signature wrapping became adorned with customized logos and arranged in gift boxes that were shipped to happy and grateful recipients. The success has also allowed them to give back. For more than 20 years, Fairytale has worked with KABOOM!, a nonprofit that helps communities and schools build playgrounds for children. In honor of Fairytale’s 30th anniversary, it raised the funds to build a playground at Loma Linda School in Central Phoenix. Fairytale had been one of the first online food mail businesses, and over the decades, Spitalny and Kravetz’s industry acumen and the public’s increased education and interest in chocolate and artisan goods dovetailed. And as the pandemic forced people into their homes and seeking comfort in whatever ways they could without leaving, Fairytale came through. Today, individual customers can even go to the website and upload a logo, photo, or image of their choosing to be used on their packaging. Often, those orders can be shipped the same day. Any recipient who’s experienced an issue with their brownie box is immediately sent a new box with no questions asked, with everything taken care of. Much detail is paid to every step, from the wrapping to the topping-tobrownie base proportion to the care from the in-house customer service team. This extra attention is another way that sets Fairytale apart from the new slew of competitors. “We are not the least expensive, but the quality and experience we strive for are top-notch every step of the way. In the end, you can tell this story to your friends … that helps set us apart,” Spitalny says. Brownies.com

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

“We are not the least expensive, but the quality and experience we strive for are top-notch every step of the way.”

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DRE AMY DATE S

FOOLPROOF WAYS TO SURPRISE YOUR SWEETIE

Rainbow Ryders

OdySea Aquarium

Seeking a little date-night inspiration? Each of these romantic experiences is a perfect option for Valentine’s Day, a date night, or “just because” all month long.

AMOROUS ADVENTURES

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

LOCA L’S CH OICE | L IFE + CULTURE

Among the best ways to create intimacy is to experience something new together. Why not try a hot air balloon ride, for example? Rainbow Ryders offers nightly sunset rides that fly couples across the vibrant Sonoran Desert. The adventure finishes with a celebratory toast. OdySea Aquarium—the largest aquarium in the Southwest—is another hidden hot spot for those looking to do something outside the box. In addition to its 65-plus exhibits and 500 species of animals, OdySea offers a host of VIP experiences, many with adults in mind, including the SeaTREK underwater walking program, a charismatic Penguin Interaction Program, the chance to get up close and personal with a cuddly sloth, and even a behind-the-scenes shark tour. Like OdySea, the Phoenix Zoo is considered by many a spot squarely for families. But in reality, it is the perfect outdoor oasis for couples looking to create new memories. The Premium Adventure, a fully custom and private experience, is ideal for those looking to go over the top. It features a 90-minute personalized tour, plus one premium encounter with a one-horned rhinoceros, flamingos, a giant anteater, elephants, stingrays, tortoises, or a group of reptiles.

Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

B L I S S

While day spas are often stereotyped as choice spots for girls’ days and mother-daughter pampering sessions, they’re also a great way to enjoy a day of blissing out as a couple. The best spas out there—notably the 44,000-square-foot Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess; the Hamman-inspired Joya Spa at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia; the three-story Spa at The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale;

O U T

and the Asian-inspired Spa at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney’s Resort & Spa—offer ample opportunities to pamper couples via side-by-side massages, relaxation areas, adult-only pools, and co-ed immersive water therapies and bathing rituals. Many also have programs that can be customized for couples, including singing bowl therapy and CBD treatments, as well as a menu of nourishing food that helps put guests in the mood for love.

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Most dates revolve around dinner. That is easy. So why not take things to another level by splurging for a specialty prix fixe tasting menu instead? There are several fine dining restaurants across the Valley with ever-changing tasting menus that will tickle the taste buds and act as surefire aphrodisiacs. Sel, for example, features a tasting menu with dishes inspired from executive chef and Food Network favorite Branden Levine’s storied career, as well as plates he has loved most from the most awarded eateries worldwide. Café Monarch is another can’t-miss. Its tasting menu has earned it the designation of one of the top three most romantic restaurants in the nation by Tripadvisor. Roka Akor’s version of a tasting menu is called Omakase, which means “to entrust the chef,” and celebrates the highest-end eateries across Japan. Finally, there is Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion, which just received one of the highest scores possible from “Gayot” an international guide to travel, food, hotels, shopping, and attractions. The tasting menu here is as whimsical as it is technically astounding, making it a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list-level date.

P R I X

F I X E

F U N

Valentine’s Day, consider a reservation for one of two of The Mick’s acclaimed Somm Brawl events on Feb. 20 or 27 to wow your special someone. Each interactive event challenges two lauded Arizona sommeliers to pair a custom four-course menu with wines of their choice. Together, couples sip, savor, and choose the evenings’ victors, who then move on to the finals in March.

Café Monarch. Photo by Harley Bonham Photography

PERFECT PAIRINGS Think you are one half of the perfect pair? Why not see how compatible you are during an interactive night of perfect pairings? While there are a few wine-pairing dinners on

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | L IFE + CULTURE

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Wine and Dine BRICOLEUR VINEYARDS OFFERS THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE FOR COUPLES WHO CRAVE CULINARY ADVENTURE

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

Swirling, sipping, and savoring a spectacular glass of wine with someone special is utterly seductive. But doing so while being surrounded by a working farm, enjoying an ultimate epicurean experience, and then cuddling in a private villa in the heart of the Russian River Valley in California? Priceless. Say hello to Bricoleur Vineyards and its Vineyard Residence package. Despite opening during the pandemic, this sustainable, handcrafted, and small-production winery just minutes from the Sonoma County airport spared no expense in building one of the dreamiest ways to enjoy California’s wonderful wine country. The property is nestled along a winding rural road and appears as if from nowhere. Upon approaching the entrance, expect to see a serene pond; olive groves; ample gardens with

Primary Suite, Vineyard Residence. Courtesy Bricoleur Vineyards

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

Bricoleur Rooted Experience. Courtesy Bricoleur Vineyards

roses of every color, blueberries, raspberries, persimmons, and strawberries; an orchard; and—of course—vineyards. The center of the property is a 10,000-square-foot dramatic redwood winery barn, which is where most tastings begin. The 2,750-square-foot vineyard residence is a short golf cart ride away, just far enough to offer complete privacy. Guests who book this package have the four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath palace in the vines completely to themselves for the duration of their stay. And, they receive more than just a place to rest their heads. The Vineyard Residence package also includes a private Rooted experience in the winery barn. Rooted, which was developed in partnership with iconic celebrity chef and local resident Charlie Palmer, seeks to connect guests to the land through sumptuous food and wine pairings. The menu changes seasonally, but features six courses plus surprises, each developed with local ingredients in mind. There are both ingredients that will comfort, including mushrooms and free-range chicken, as well

as those that will take guests’ taste buds on an exotic adventure, such as the Shiso Leaf Tempura and Yuzu-Infused Béarnaise. The ample meal also gives the winemaking team the chance to shine with an extensive list of must-taste varietals. After dinner and the tasting, take a bottle or two back to the residence to enjoy on the ample deck, while screening a movie in the media room, or while engaging in a friendly competition in the game room. The space is ideal both for one passionate pair or for a couples’ weekend away, and in addition to the experiences on-site, Bricoleur has partnerships across the region and can assist with a full itinerary of custom tastings, hiking, hot air balloon rides, spa days, and more. Pricing starts at $2,000 per night and includes accommodations, welcome bubbles, and Rooted. Additional experiences are available for an added fee. BricoleurVineyards.com

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SUPER BOWL LVII

THE GAME, THE EVENTS, THE PARTIES From the Big Game to the parties and events, the Valley will be filled with football fans this month. In addition to the actual Super Bowl, there are tons of related events. Here's what you need to know.

Super Bowl Gospel Celebration Feb. 8 | Mesa Arts Center, Mesa The only inspirational music event sanctioned by the NFL for the weekend.

Super Bowl LVII | Sun., Feb. 12 State Farm Stadium, Glendale FOX Sports Broadcast Set: Programming throughout the week on The Great Lawn at State Farm Stadium, Glendale

Historic Old Town ESPN Main Street Tailgate Feb. 8-12 | Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale A five-day, Old West-style football pre-game party. The event also serves as ESPN’s backdrop for the network’s pregame coverage.

THE EVENTS

Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s Feb. 4-5, Feb. 9-11 | Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix The NFL's football theme park with interactive games like the 40-yard dash, and where attendees can get star player autographs, take photos with the Super Bowl rings and the Vince Lombardi trophy, and visit the NFL Shop.

NFL Honors presented by Invisalign Feb. 9 | Symphony Hall, Phoenix Emmy- and Grammy Award-winning artist Kelly Clarkson hosts this primetime awards special that recognizes the NFL's best players, performances, and plays from the 2022 season. It airs live at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT on NBC, NFL Network, and Peacock.

Opening Night presented by Fast Twitch Feb. 6 | Footprint Center, Phoenix See players and coaches make their first public appearances. Also, live entertainment, special appearances, photo opportunities, and more.

Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest Feb. 9-11 | Footprint Center, Phoenix This three-day musical festival features Paramore with special guest (Feb. 9), Dave Matthews Band with special guest DJ Pee .Wee (Feb. 10), and Imagine Dragons and Kane Brown (Feb. 11).

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

LEFT: Shaq’s Fun House in 2022. Courtesy of Medium Rare MIDDLE: SI The Party in 2022. Courtesy of Authentic Entertainment RIGHT: Courtesy of State Farm Stadium

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“This is the fourth Super Bowl played in Greater Phoenix since 1996.” FUN FACTS •

This is the fourth Super Bowl played in Greater Phoenix since 1996.

•

Rihanna is this year’s halftime show performer.

•

Kelly Clarkson is the first woman to host the NFL Honors show.

Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s at Hance Park Feb. 9-12 | Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix This free, outdoor, multiday immersive experience features live music, entertainment, and food. Jimmy Eat World (Feb. 9) and Lee Brice (Feb. 10) will perform. FanDuel Party Feb. 10 | Tempe Beach Park and Arts Park, Tempe Expect appearances by some of the biggest names in sports, a performance by The Killers, superstar showdowns, and food trucks. Off the Field NFL Player Wives’ Charity Fashion Show Feb. 10 | Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale A charity fashion show by the NFL Players’ Wives Association. Taste of the NFL Feb. 11 | Chateau Luxe, Phoenix Hosted and curated by Andrew Zimmern, Carla Hall, Tim Love, Lasheeda Perry, and Mark Bucher, and featuring appearances by NFL greats, Taste of the NFL will offer guests tastes of food from some of Phoenix’s top restaurants. Proceeds benefit school nutrition programs in Arizona and Beyond through GENYOUth’s End Student Hunger fund. Official Super Bowl Watch Party Feb. 12 | Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix Watch the game with other fans at this main park in Downtown Phoenix, which will feature the largest LED screens in Arizona. For more information about these Super Bowl LVII events, visit AZSuperBowl.com.

PARTIES Tailgate Time Machine Feb. 8-12 | Old Town Scottsdale, Scottsdale T-Pain, Baby Bash, Paul Wall & Slim Thug, and more perform at this giant block party hosted by The Hot Chick and Boondocks. TheHotChickAZ.com Shaq’s Fun House Presented by Netspend Feb. 10 | Talking Stick Resort, Scottsdale Held adjacent to Talking Stick Resort, enjoy a carnival, and performances by Snoop Dogg and Diplo. DJ Diesel’s performance will be live-streamed. ShaqsFunHouse.com SI The Party Feb. 11 | Talking Stick Resort, Scottsdale “Sports Illustrated” (SI) holds its SI The Party Presented by Captain Morgan. The Chainsmokers and Machine Gun Kelly perform. SITheParty.com

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

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G I D DY U P ! T HE W ESTERN -THE ME D D RIVE THE DR EA M GA LA SUPP ORTS CHIL D HE L P ’ S L IF E -C HA N GIN G SE RVICE S

Rod and Kim Cullum and Sheila and Mike Ingram. Photo by Scott Foust Studios

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON

T H E D ETA I L S

G IV IN G BAC K | EN TERTA I NME NT

For nearly two decades, one of the most admired annual fundraising events to attend during gala season has been Childhelp’s Drive the Dream Gala. This year is no different. The 2023 event— which marks the event’s 19th annual event—features a fun country theme and will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Sat., Feb. 18, at The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale. “This year’s Western-themed gala, ‘Giddy Up for Kids,’ is the brainchild of co-chairs Sheila and Mike Ingram, Kim and Rod Cullum, and vice-chairs Carol and Jim Hebets,” explains Daphne Young, chief communications officer at Childhelp. “They wanted to create a fun-filled night of fundraising that played on a denim and diamonds concept. It’s a touch more relaxed in attire but with a serious ask for people to bring their generosity to the table for the children of Childhelp.” The “Queen of Country,” Reba McEntire, will accept the Childhelp Woman of the World Award for her child-serving philanthropy, while Dream Center founder Pastor Tommy Barnett will receive the Childhelp Man of the World Award for helping homeless and trafficked youth. Track Rekord, a Valleybased high-performance driving education company, will be presented with the Childhelp Nellie Jackson Award. Added to the music, there will be dinner, dancing, a live auction, and more. “It will be a night of kicking up our boots and tipping our hats to some amazing heroes who help our mission shine,” Young says. Proceeds from the gala benefit the Childhelp Children’s Center of Arizona, dedicated to Linda Pope. Since 1998, the nonprofit has served over 140,000 abused and neglected children by providing treatment, intervention, and investigation services. Young says that the center is recognized as a best practice agency, serving as a model for advocacy centers nationwide and, more recently, in Canada and Japan. “In addition to our advocacy center in Downtown Phoenix, Arizona is home to the Childhelp Headquarters and the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline, both located in Scottsdale,” Young says. “Arizonans are almost always in the top 10 users of our hotline, so we are proud to serve our state as we serve the nation. From a child in crisis needing immediate intervention, to a parent seeking resources, to a survivor wanting counseling in the middle of the night, our degreed professionals are available 24/7 to save lives and soothe hearts.” She adds that the need for their services is so dire that there is a waiting list for children to be served at the center. On average, the center serves 8,500 children annually.

W H AT

WHEN

19th Annual Childhelp Drive the Dream Gala

Sat., Feb. 18

“A GA LA LIK E THE CHIL D HE L P D RIVE T H E DR E A M GA LA DOESN ’T JUST SUP P ORT TODAY ’ S WORK , I T PAV E S T H E WAY FOR TOMORROW ’ S IN N OVATION .”

A new service that the nonprofit offers is the Childhelp & Foundation for Global Sports Development Courage First Helpline (1.888.279.1026). “Relying on our data and expertise for 40 years of hotline excellence, we worked with these Olympic consultants to bring to life a hotline that exclusively serves youth athletes,” Young explains. “We’ve all seen the headlines of young people being abused in sports, and we are proud to pioneer a new prevention service to get in front of the problem.” Events like the Childhelp Drive the Dream Gala, which often raises millions in funding, are crucial to continuing to offer these needed services to children in need and families in crisis. “A gala like the Childhelp Drive the Dream Gala doesn’t just support today’s work, it paves the way for tomorrow’s innovation,” Young says. Childhelp.org

WHERE

THEME

The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale 6000 E. Camelback Road

Giddy Up For Kids

Courtesy Collective Artist Management

CLINT BLACK

Following the Western theme, country superstar Clint Black will be headlining the event. Other musical acts include favorites Red Steagall, Nate Nathan and The MacDaddy O’s, Rosevelt Rawls, and Steve Amerson.

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S C OT TS DA L E

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2023 TOYOTA TUNDRA HV 4X4 HYBRID RUGGED POWERHOUSE MEETS EFFICIENCY MAVEN IN THE NEW TOYOTA TUNDRA

The new 2023 Toyota Tundra HV 4x4 Hybrid combines the best of both worlds— rugged power and fuel efficiency. And, there's no giving up comfort or luxury in this tough, reliable truck.

UNDER THE HOOD

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TOYOTA

D R IV E R’S N OT E BOOK | AUTO + MARI NE

The new I-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain gives you 437 horsepower at 5,200 rpm with 583 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,400 rpm. The I-FORCE MAX combines the 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 with a motor generator. The motor generator is there with extra power when you need it most, while the parallel hybrid components power engine start-up, EV driving, and electric assist. The hybrid system is based on a reliable 288V sealed nickel-metal hydride battery under the rear passenger seats. The hybrid system offers unprecedented efficiency for a truck of this size and power, with 20 MPG city/24 MPG highway.

The I-FORCE MAX 4x4 front engine offers 4WDemand, with an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case. The 10-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission features four modes: intelligence, sequential shift, uphill/downhill shift logic and TOW/HAUL driving modes.

CAPSTONE CREWMAX The Capstone CrewMax features off-road suspension with a 1.1-inch front lift, 2.5-inch FOX Internal Bypass coil-overs, rear remote-reservoir shocks, and a TRD PRO front stabilizer bar. It comes with 22-inch dark-chrome alloy wheels, an aluminum-reinforced composite bed with 120V/400W AC power outlet, and LED lights. You'll find plenty of clearance for those off-road adventures and an astounding 11,170 lbs. towing capacity. The Capstone features an easy lower and lift tailgate with tailgate release bump switch. Power running boards and powered BedStep make it easy for everyone to load up when it's time to go.

LUXURIOUS INTERIOR The CrewMax seats five people comfortably in a luxurious interior you would expect from a luxury sedan. Overhead is a power tilt/slide panoramic roof with a power sunshade. For driving ease and entertainment, there is a 14-inch touchscreen audio multimedia with a 12-speaker JBL premium audio system, a 10-inch color Head-Up Display, a panoramic view monitor, dualzone climate control, and heater and ventilated front and rear seats. MSRP: $73,530 | Price as tested: $77,339

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The Art of Bouncing Back DARLEEN “COACH DAR” SANTORE SHARES HER WINNING STRATEGIES The Valley’s Darleen “Coach Dar” Santore specializes in helping people deal with life’s curveballs and setbacks—and shares her lessons in her new book, “The Art of Bouncing Back.”

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE THIS BOOK? One thing we all know for sure is that adversity and challenges are a part of our life! But what I realized over the years as a board-certified occupational therapist and leadership advisor, and mental skills coach to CEOs, founders, and professional athletes, was that so many didn’t have the tools or knowledge or were ever taught how to not only handle adversity but bounce back from it! So, I felt it was time to share the same principles I use with them with the world.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE IT? It’s nine simple principles that help to equip you mentally and physically to not only bounce back but thrive and flow again. They ensure the obstacles and setbacks you face quickly morph into setups for your next success.

HOW WILL IT IMPACT READERS? You’ll discover how to pour a strong emotional foundation, accept feedback (the right way), connect with your “Why-Power,” and create your own bounce-back environment. Every chapter provides a blueprint that helps you learn more about yourself, so you can identify the exact pivot you need to push forward and cultivate the strength you need to handle future adversity better―and build the business, career, and life that allows you to thrive again! Available at CoachDar.com or on Amazon.com. In stores nationwide on Feb. 28. Instagram: @thecoachdar

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EXP E RT H E LP | HEALTH + W E LLNE S S

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S C OT TS DA L E

ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET 5 WAYS TO O R G A N I Z E A N D

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our five tips for transforming and elevating your closet as you Spring clean and declutter for a more peaceful, inspired space you absolutely love. A sneak peek inside the closet of active mom and entrepreneur Keri Tarantino of Leawood, KS reveals a dressing room that rivals celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. But it didn’t come easily. Keri painstakingly planned, designed and curated the space with care. When we first stepped inside, we gasped as our eyes beheld the glory. No detail went unnoticed in this dreamy dressing room. Here are some guiding principles that can be drawn from her exquisite taste and vision. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying the guidelines Keri used in her space will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

USE R EAL ESTATE W ISELY Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. The large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches. While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

INJECT ST YLE INTO YOUR SPACE

ORGA NIZE BY K IND A ND COLOR

Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.

03 04 05 NEGATIVE SPACE

Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.

FACE CLOTHES THE SA ME DIR ECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

UPGR ADED HA NGERS

The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner! Here’s a few of our favorite elevated hangers:

FEBR UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/S C OT TS DA L E

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

F E BRUA RY 1 ST- 5T H

Scottsdale Western Week

F E BRUA RY 3 RD - 5T H

12th Annual Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival

F EB RUA RY 4 T H

VA RIOUS LOCATION S Celebrate Scottsdale's Western history with iconic events such as the Parada del Sol (Feb. 2), 65th Annual Hashknife Pony Express Arrival (Feb. 3), 69th Annual Parada del Sol Historic Parade and Trail's End Festival (Feb. 4), Arizona Indian Festival (Feb. 5), and more. ScottsdaleWesternWeek.com

SC OTTS DALE WATERFR ON T | 1 0 :0 0 A M View juried fine arts, listen to live music, and enjoy delectable chocolates at this event that showcases paintings, bronzes, glass, stone, copper, clay sculptures, photography, and jewelry along the banks of the Scottsdale Waterfront. ThunderbirdArtists.com

Concours in the Hills

FOUN TAIN PAR K, FOUN TAIN HI L L S | 9 :0 0 A M This show for high-performance and collector cars in Arizona is one of the largest in the country. In 2022, there were 1,200 cars, 50,000 attendees, and $430,000 was raised for Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The show is supported by the leading car clubs in Arizona representing Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, Porsche, Corvette, Viper, Audi, BMW, Mustang, Jaguar, and others. ConcoursInTheHills.org F E BRUA RY 6T H - 1 2 T H

WM Phoenix Open/Coors Light Birds Nest

F E BRUA RY 1 6T H- 2 6T H

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show

F E BRUA RY 1 7 T H- 1 9 T H

5th Annual Women’s Film Fest

T P C S COTTS DALE The "Greatest Show on Grass"—and its popular 16th Hole—is back with an enhanced fan experience. In addition to the popular golf tournament, there is the Coors Light Birds Nest entertainment tent. Performers include Jason Aldean, Machine Gun Kelly, and The Chainsmokers. WMPhoenixOpen.com

WESTWOR LD OF S COTTS DALE The world’s largest Arabian horse show returns for its 68th year. It will feature more than 2,000 horses competing for more than $3 million in prize money, as well as a shopping expo, an immersive experience that gives attendees a chance to ride and learn, and more. ScottsdaleShow.com

H ARKIN S S HEA 14 THEATR ES This film festival expects to showcase more than 120 films across a variety of genres, as well as narrative and documentary. The festival features films with a woman in at least one key creative role of writer, producer, director, cinematographer, editor, and composer. There is also an actor's spotlight, workshops, and more. WWFilmFestival.org

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