Tempe, AZ May 2024

Lift Each Other Up

I can’t tell you how many times a week—or a day—I pick up the phone and call my mom. And my sister. And my best friend.

Or I wander into my daughter’s room and perch myself on the end of her bed for a chat (hoping I don’t get those teenage eye rolls, of course, and instead some heart-to-heart time).

These women make me better.

We all need women in our lives who make us better.

I was scrolling social media today when I saw a story about one woman who helped another with a difficult situation. I was scanning the comments when one jumped out at me.

“Be the woman who fixes another woman’s crown instead of trying to knock it off!” the person posted admiringly.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we all approached each other that way? Lifted each other up, supported each other, and, yes, fixed each other’s crowns?

I know, in theory, all (or most) of us women talk about doing that. But how many of us really do?

We took the opportunity with this issue, our annual Women’s Issue, to showcase some of the incredible women in this town. They are truly making an impact!

One thing I love about being in this business is that I have the opportunity to meet so many truly incredible women (don’t worry men—we celebrate you next month in our Men’s Issue!) who really do make it their mission to lift others up and to make the world a better place. They really are ready to jump in and fix another’s crown as needed.

This issue is dedicated to all of you.

MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR

@TEMPECITYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Wendy Bates wendy.bates@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Michelle Glicksman michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Alison Stanton

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Justine Wallstrom

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Mayor Corey Woods reading the proclamation celebrating Tempe St. Luke’s with Shelia Bryant and Cliff Jones. 2: Michael Neely, Jason Hood, Mayor Corey Woods, Sue Bentz, and Katherine Schneider celebrating Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital’s 80th Anniversary. 3: Paulette Pacioni and Colin Diaz with the Tempe Chamber and Harvey Gibson with Landings Credit Union. 4: Feeney/winthrop performed at the 16th Annual feeney/ winthrop Benefit Concert at Tempe Center for the Arts. 5: Melissa Forrester wth husband Jack and David Key at the Tempe Chamber mixer.

6: Tempe Mayor Corey Woods with HercuTech’s Patrick Van Poppelen, exploring its sustainable energy efficient building system, HercuWall.

7: Catalyst Crafted Ales and Keep Tempe Beautiful’s new brew, Tempe Town Wheat, benefits a cleaner, greener Tempe.

Parlor Doughnuts Now Open in Downtown Tempe

The popular Parlor Doughnuts from Indiana now has a location in Tempe, at the corner of University Drive and Farmer Avenue. Darrick Hayden and Josh Tudela launched the concept—which is named for the room in a home where people are received and gather (the parlor)—in 2019. It offers a unique "layered doughnut," as well as vegan/gluten-free doughnuts, acai bowls, avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, tacos, and specialty coffee. ParlorDoughnuts.com

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill Debuts Seasonal Menu

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill celebrates the flavors of the season with seasonal dishes and fresh ingredients on its newest menu, which is available now through June 16. The menu features citrus-inspired craft cocktails, fruit-inspired desserts, and meals made with garden-fresh ingredients including tomatoes, sweet peppers, mint, snap peas, baby carrots, and caramelized pears. Limited-time options include the Wagyu Beef & Bacon Jam Burger, Cast Iron Skillet Southern Peach Crumble, Tito’s Hibiscus Lemonade, and more. ThirstyLionGastropub.com

Dual-Branded Fairfield Inn & Suites Tempe and TownePlace Suites Tempe

Hotel management company Aqua-Aston Hospitality recently opened Fairfield Inn & Suites Tempe and TownePlace Suites Tempe, two brands under one roof. The four-story, 80,816-square-foot property shares common spaces, including The Way Station restaurant and bar, outdoor pool and hot tub, and a 24/7 fitness center. While the 83 guest rooms at Fairfield Inn & Suites cater to short-term leisure travelers, the 65 guest rooms at TownePlace Suites Tempe are designed for extended stays. AquaAston.com

H E L PING LEADTHEWAY

Here, we caught up with the four executive vice presidents at Arizona State University, who shared what they do and a little about themselves. Meet the women helping shape the future.

THE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Nancy A. Gonzales

University Provost and Executive Vice Provost of the Academic Enterprise

YOUR JOB IS …

As provost and EVP of the Academic Enterprise, I oversee everything that is “academic” at ASU. This includes all undergraduate and graduate degree programs and everything it takes to enroll and support the success of our students, now numbering over 177,000; 17 colleges operating on four metro Phoenix campuses and in other locations, such as Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Hawaii, and in partnership with universities all over the world; as well as more than 5,000 faculty. The academic enterprise includes a stellar team of deans, vice provosts, and vice presidents who each lead their own innovative teams and academic units that keep ASU at the forefront of education, research, and service to Arizona, nationally and globally.

HOW DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO GO INTO THIS FIELD?

I am a psychologist by training, and I have always been fascinated by human potential and the opportunities and conditions we all need to thrive. Although I did not set out to become a higher education administrator, higher education and the role of provost is one of the best ways I know to support human development and talent on a daily basis.

ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

Some day in the future I will start in a place I haven’t been yet, maybe Machu Picchu, and continue traveling with my husband for a year without any idea where we might go next.

Provost.asu.edu

Sherine Emily Gabriel

YOUR JOB IS …

I am EVP for ASU Health, responsible for designing, planning, and implementing ASU’s Health strategy. That includes the creation of two new health schools, the School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering and the School of Technology for Public Health. It also includes massive growth in nursing and other health programs, as well as accelerating health research and health research infrastructure; advancing community health literacy; and launching ASU Clinics, a network of clinics focused on providing care in underserved communities.

HOW DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO GO INTO THIS FIELD?

I always knew I wanted to become a doctor. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to care for patients, conduct health research, and teach medicine. Now I am helping to design and launch programs to enable the next generation to do all of that more effectively and efficiently than ever before by leveraging technology, AI, and all the state-of-the-art tools available today.

THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR JOB IS …

To help advance the next generation.

THE BEST THING ABOUT ASU IS …

The freedom to innovate.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU:

Kind. Passionate. Humanistic.

FAVORITE BOOK?

The Worlds I See by Fei-Fei Li

ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

Driving around the entire island of Iceland.

ASUHealth.asu.edu

Sally Morton

Executive Vice President, Knowledge Enterprise, Arizona State University

YOUR JOB IS …

Knowledge Enterprise supports faculty and students to conduct research and discovery of public value accountable to the communities we serve. Our goal is to change the way the world solves problems. My job is to provide vision, strategy, and tactics for the university’s research and economic development ecosystem.

HOW DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO GO INTO THIS FIELD?

I always enjoyed applied mathematics and trained as a statistician. I spent the first half of my career as a researcher with a focus on providing information that allows patients and their families to make the best decisions about their healthcare. Over time, I developed a talent for, and realized I could be more effective by, leading groups of researchers rather than as an individual scientist.

THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR JOB IS …

Seeing the impact of ASU’s research, discovery, and innovation on supporting thriving people, a thriving planet, and a thriving society.

THE BEST THING ABOUT ASU IS …

The people and their ideas, energy, and commitment.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU:

Energetic, determined, and focused.

FAVORITE BOOK?

Since this is your Women’s Issue, may I recommend a book by ASU Professor Lindy Elkins-Tanton—A Portrait of the Scientist as a Young Woman.

Maria Anguiano

Executive Vice President, ASU’s Learning Enterprise

YOUR JOB IS …

I have the privilege of helping to bring ASU’s charter of inclusion to life every day. Alongside hundreds of talented people across the campus, ASU’s Learning Enterprise works to advance universal access to learning for all—at every stage of life. This means learners are supported throughout their lifetimes, their growth enabled by a continual blend of professional, personal, and technical skills.

HOW DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO GO INTO THIS FIELD?

As a first-generation college student myself, I am all too familiar with the barriers aspiring college students face. My mother wasn’t able to attend school past the sixth grade, but recognized the value of higher education and had the drive to ensure my siblings and I went to college. It became important for me to pay it forward and to put underserved learners at the center of higher education design. College should be within reach for everyone.

THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU:

Authentic, strategic, and a futurist (I believe in creating the world you want to exist).

ONE THING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU:

My favorite day of the week is Monday. Sorry, Garfield. There’s something about the energy of the new possibilities each new week brings that excites me. Every week presents new opportunities to do the work that really matters—new partnerships, new programs, new learners. To me, Monday represents a boundless, shining future.

A PASSION FOR Seeking Truth

SARAH PURIFOY FOUNDED LUX ANALYSIS, A FORENSIC ACCOUNTING AND FRAUD INVESTIGATION FIRM

ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Sarah Purifoy has always had a profound passion for seeking the truth.

Now, as managing director of Lux Analysis, LLC, an East Valley forensic accounting and fraud investigation firm, Purifoy’s career in investigative work allows her to pursue this interest daily.

“Personal experiences have fueled my drive to uncover facts with integrity, driving me to excel in my field and make a meaningful impact through my work,” Purifoy says, adding that she founded Lux Analysis in March 2019.

Her company’s name is also personally significant to Purifoy; as she explains, she named her firm after her grandparents, Bob and Gloria Lux, who owned a chicken hatchery in Iowa.

“When I visited my grandfather at the nursing home when I was trying to come up with a name for my business, I looked over and saw a feed bag from the chicken hatchery. It had the words Lux and Analysis on it, the domain was available, and that was it,” Purifoy says. “I knew I had the right name. I was very close to my grandparents and am so happy they were able to see the beginnings of Lux Analysis before they passed away.”

As Purifoy notes, forensic accounting, or financial forensics, is defined by Darrell Dorrell and Gregory Gadawski in the Financial Forensics Body of Knowledge as “the art and science of investigating people and money.”

Forensic accounting also encompasses a broad spectrum of financial analysis and investigative techniques, including work in civil, criminal, and family matters.

“Personal experiences have fueled my drive to uncover facts with integrity, driving me to excel in my field and make a meaningful impact through my work.”

“The work could include forensic accounting analysis related to fraud investigations, alleged embezzlements, elder financial abuse, divorce cases, shareholder disputes, criminal defense, or other related matters,” Purifoy says. “My work in this field requires a blend of analytical prowess, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of investigations to unravel intricate financial puzzles and present findings with clarity and integrity.”

As a Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Valuation Analyst, Master Analyst in Financial Forensics, and licensed private investigator in Arizona, Purifoy says she brings a unique skill set to the table that enables her to delve deep into complex financial situations and, if required, provide expert testimony in legal proceedings.

As the founder of her company, Purifoy also oversees and manages every aspect of the firm’s operations.

“This includes strategic decision-making, client relations, project management, and more. While I handle the core responsibilities, I also collaborate with a team of contractors who support me in various capacities, particularly on cases requiring additional manpower. Their contributions are invaluable in ensuring the smooth functioning and success of our projects,” she says.

While Purifoy knows firsthand how much time and dedication being self-employed

entails, she makes a concerted effort to carve out moments for leisure and personal pursuits to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

“Outside of my professional endeavors, I prioritize spending quality time with loved ones. Additionally, I find relaxation in practicing hot yoga, which serves as a form of self-care amidst the demands of entrepreneurship and investigative work. I also volunteer as the editor of the Arizona Association of Licensed Private Investigator’s newsletter, The Chronicle,” she says.

Looking back, Purifoy is pleased with her decision to open Lux Analysis and is proud that her firm recently celebrated its fifth anniversary.

“The last five years have been a journey of growth, learning, and dedication to our mission of delivering high-quality services to our clients,” she says.

Purifoy says she finds the inherent challenges of her work to be immensely satisfying.

“Each case brings its own set of complexities and intricacies, requiring me to employ problem-solving skills and analytical thinking to unravel the truth,” she says. “Contributing to the resolution of legal disputes and bringing clarity to complex matters gives me a sense of fulfillment and purpose in my profession while honoring my grandparents.”

The New York Pizzeria With a Modern-Day Twist

Crust Pizzeria Offers Pizza, Pasta, Salads, and Classic Entrees

Michael Merendino knows good New York pizza.

“I grew up in my father’s pizzeria on Great Neck, Long Island, New York, so I would say I was born into it,” he says.

Now a Valley resident, Merendino owns Crust Restaurant Group and has several scratch Italian dining destinations across the Valley, including Crust Simply Italian and Crust Pizzeria.

He opened his newest Crust Pizzeria location this past August in Tempe, at 1120 E. Baseline Road.

“We always had an eye for expansion and had looked at Tempe for quite some time,” he explains. “When the opportunity came up, we jumped all over it.”

The restaurant is a classic NY pizzeria, with a modern-day twist.

“We do slices of pizza, great pasta, salads, and classics like Chicken Parm,” Merendino explains. “Our sandwiches are two-handed,

East Coast-style, and everything is homemade. We also have wings, and individual and 20-inch pizzas. There’s also a full bar with barrel-aged cocktails, espresso martinis on tap, and great beer and wine selections.”

And while all the items are popular, one of the most popular is a direct nod to New York—the Upstate New Yorkers Wings, which are tossed in house Buffalo sauce, bleu cheese crumbles, pickled red onions, potato sticks, and are topped with ranch dressing.

Merendino shares that the location is offering an order of wings and a 20-inch NY pie for $25.

“I always ask guests to dine in and try our pizza in the store and out of the oven,” he says. “My team rocks, and we all push each other to get better and better as we go! We try to put out an incredible value in our food and drinks and we are all scratch. I hope you come in and give us a try. We really would like to be a long-term part of the neighborhood.”

“We do slices of pizza, great pasta, salads, and classics like Chicken Parm.” “

GREAT Doggone

DOGTOPIA OF TEMPE RAISES FUNDS FOR SERVICE DOGS FOR VETS

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The benefits of dog daycare are numerous, providing both the physical and mental stimulation that are crucial for a dog's well-being. Regular interaction with other dogs and trained staff promotes socialization skills, reduces separation anxiety, and ensures that dogs remain active and engaged throughout the day.

But Dogtopia of Tempe goes beyond simply providing exceptional care for dogs. The caring company is also dedicated to making a positive impact in the community through its philanthropic efforts.

Enter the Dogtopia Foundation. The Foundation is an organization committed to supporting veterans, service dogs, and animal rescue initiatives. This commitment to giving back is evident through their ongoing fundraising efforts. Through various treat and craft days, they have been raising money to sponsor their first service dog for a veteran in need. It's a cause close to their hearts, and their dedication has paid off—they've recently reached their fundraising goal for their first service dog and are already halfway to reaching their second.

The service dogs sponsored by Dogtopia of Tempe are trained by K9s for Warriors, a renowned organization that pairs service dogs with veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other combat-related injuries. K9s for Warriors provides these veterans with life-changing companionship and support, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives post-service.

Through their partnership with K9s for Warriors and an unwavering commitment to philanthropy, Dogtopia of Tempe is making a meaningful difference in the lives of both dogs and veterans in the community. As they continue their mission of providing exceptional care and giving back, their impact only grows stronger with each passing day.

Dogtopia.com/tempe

“The Foundation is an organization committed to supporting veterans, service dogs, and animal rescue initiatives.”

Innovating Fitness

Did you know we lose up to 60% of our strength as we age?

The truth is that walking and other weight-bearing activities like jogging do not stimulate improvements in strength. And moderate intensity strength training where no meaningful demands are put on the musculature also does not.

The bottom line? All exercise is not created equal.

Exercise must force the body to make a positive adaptation. These positive adaptations include increased bone mineral density, improved metabolic function, strength gains, weight loss, balanced hormonal levels, and more.

To make workouts the most effective possible, The Exercise Coach utilizes Right Intensity Training™, where meaningful demand is being put on the muscles. As muscles become stronger and capable of generating more force, the surrounding structures, including tendons, ligaments, and bone, must also become stronger. This is why Right Intensity Training is ideal.

The Exercise Coach, which is new to Tempe, is a “smart fitness studio” that relies on artificial intelligence and robotics instead of dumbbells and treadmills. Outfitted with proprietary high-tech computerized “Exerbotics” machines instead of traditional equipment, The Exercise Coach’s personalized programs are optimized for efficiency, requiring only two 20-minute workouts per week that can’t be matched in effectiveness with even seven days a week of traditional activity-based exercise.

The Exercise Coach’s robotic exercise technology is combined with the guidance of certified coaches to provide a unique, comprehensive approach to fitness designed to be a perfect fit for anyone, regardless of current fitness levels or age.

The brand is a franchise with over 200 locations. Cheryl Campell opened the Tempe location in 2023.

“As muscles become stronger and capable of generating more force, the surrounding structures, including tendons, ligaments, and bone, must also become stronger.”

“My passion is health and wellness and the Exercise Coach is a way to help others maximize the benefits of their workout and help spread the word that strength and muscle help transform the way people age,” she says. “Smart strength training is truly revolutionary.”

The studio creates a dynamic exercise experience that blends personalized strength and interval cardio training in each session. The machines adjust each workout to a person’s strengths and weaknesses in real time, helping them get the most out of their workouts and avoid injury. Each member has their own profile in the machines, which automatically makes the exercises harder as a person gets stronger, so there is never a plateau, and the member is competing against themselves.  The custom workout is sensitive to limits, past injuries, and individual goals and challenges. You can’t cheat as it sees your effort based on your strength.

MAY 3RD - 18TH

Stray Cat Theatre: Sleeping Giant

Tempe Center for the Arts

Stray Cat Theatre presents this new show from Emmy- and Golden Globe-nominated writer Steve Yockey. When Ryan’s firework-filled marriage proposal accidentally awakens an ancient creature sleeping in a nearby lake, local residents become consumed by stories about the "thing" and the dark effects it has on anyone who touches it. StrayCatTheatre.org

MAY 4TH

Sammy Miller and The Congregation Presents 100 Years of Jazz

Tempe Center For The Arts | 9:30 PM

Sammy Miller and The Congregation are lighting up the music scene with their vivacious and joyous jazz. Imagine a vibrant troupe crisscrossing the nation, ready to pull you into the heart of the moment with their electrifying performances. Led by Grammy-nominated drummer Sammy Miller, this seven-piece band of musicians are conservatory-trained but have not lost their childlike wonder and awe for playing music. TempeCenterForTheArts.com

MAY 16TH

Cowboy Mouth

Marquee Theatre | 6:00 PM

Come see Cowboy Mouth for one night only at the Marquee Theatre. Known for fusing alternative rock with album-oriented rock, roots rock, and jam band influences, the band saw early mainstream success in the 1990s, including the hit single "Jenny Says." Carol Pacey & The Honey Shakers, too. MarqueeTheatreAZ.com

BEGINS THE MOMENT YOU DECIDE TO BE YOURSELF.

Boots in the Park

Tempe Beach Park

Boots in the Park takes over Tempe Beach Park with Kane Brown, Lee Brice, Tyler Hubbard, Parmalee, Dylan Schneider, and Luwiss Lux. Enjoy a day filled with country music’s hottest artists, line dancing, beer and craft cocktails, locally curated food vendors, art installations, and more. BootsInThePark.com

Comic/Hypnotist Flip Orley

Tempe Improv

Since Orley burst onto the comedy scene he has been reshaping the image of hypnosis from its vaudeville image to an act that is hip, edgy, and hilarious. He's been seen on Entertainment Tonight, Today, and more. TempeImprov.com

Cynthia Brown

Meet the Real Estate Agent Who is a 'Fixer by Heart'

Cynthia Brown describes herself as “a fixer by heart.”

“I have great success with hard-to-sell properties and complicated transactions,” says the Realtor, who is with Coldwell Banker Realty - Tempe/Ahwatukee Branch. “I believe in having clients for life and I advise them for long-term gains.”

It was more than 17 years ago when Brown, who also retired from the City of Phoenix as a deputy parks and recreation director, first began in the real estate industry.

“I was a newly divorced single mom and needed to find myself again,” she explains. “I earned my license by taking night classes. I worked full-time and sold real estate on weekends and evenings. The market had crashed, so I had to take what I was given. Short sales and foreclosures were my bread and butter.”

Brown quickly realized that she loved the industry because she loved the people she worked with, as well as the opportunity to problem-solve.

Her career flourished.

“The real estate process is not just transactional,” she explains. “It is a relationship-focused business. A quality agent will build rapport and represent their client's needs effectively. Getting under contract is easy—staying under contract and closing the deal takes skill.”

When she’s not working, Brown, who has two children, ages 24 and 27, who she describes as “go-getters, thoughtful, and hilarious,” can often be found playing pickleball, watching football at Zipps Sports Grill, and hanging out with her dog, Belle.

“She's the world's only non-barking chihuahua (shocking, I know),” says the die-hard Sun Devil, who graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism.

CynthiaBSellsHomes.com