Scottsdale Vibes

Tequila is the game and Tezcazul is the name. A new brand of tequila is in town and I’m here to introduce you to one of the men behind the brand, David Fox. David’s friend Mike Rowe has always had a passion for tequila. Between Mike’s passion and David’s expertise in distribution, the two came together to bring us, Tezcazul. A  handcrafted, artisanal tequila, made from organically farmed, sustainable, 100% blue agave. Here to tell us more about this one-of-a-kind tequila is David Fox, of International Brands and Beverages. The sole distributor of Tezcazul, located here in Scottsdale

The little red schoolhouse may not be red anymore, but the history of this original building is seen from the cracks in the walls to the recreation of what the school room looked like when it was first created. The year was 1896 and the residents of what would become Socttsdale, decided they needed an education system for their children. The school doors opened with just 14 people and quickly grew that they expanded into a new building nearby. The schoolhouse stayed in tact and was used as for Sunday School/church, polling place, REd Cross bandage rolling station during the war, a school house again, The Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce and more until 1991 when the building when the Scottsdale Historical Society took over and made it into the museum it is today. It’s been closed for a few years due to renovations and COVID. But the doors are open while the building may be small, the history and events that took  place are one we can only read about in the history books. 

Calendar of Events 

Jane Goodall @ Az Science Center
Arizona Science Center and Dr. Jane Goodall, celebrate the world premiere of her latest film, Jane Goodall - Reasons for Hope. Doors open at 5pm with the premier beginning at 730pm. A once-in-a-lifetime event for many of us to meet the the great Jane Goodall. 

Talking Stick Concert Series

Lots of good concerts are happening this summer in our backyard. 

June Days

Don’t forget about June Days starting this weekend. Go and listen to last week’s episode to hear Jackie Contaldo talk more about the events. 

The temps have risen and summer is pretty much knocking on our door. But, this is actually one of my favorite times of years as it’s easier for us locals to enjoy our city…alone. And while many people feel like there is nothing to do but swim or travel during the summer, I’m here to tell you, that’s the exact opposite of what Scottsdale has planned for you. Jackie Contaldo and her team at the Old Town Marketing Mgr worked hard to bring us June Days. A month filled with activities, events and tastings one may never have heard of.

June Days
For all your June summertime fun, go check out June Days. And don’t forget to secure your spot soon! 

McCormick-Stillman RR Concert Series

Happening every Sunday night from 7-830 through the end of June. They have a different theme each weekend with multiple food trucks as well. It’s a FREE event and an easy way to get that last bit of energy out before bed. We all know what that’s like, parents. 

As the temps have risen, quickly I may add, that means that summer and even warmer temps are right around the corner. And there aren’t many people more concerned about the heat than the AZ Forestry Service. We saw a really wet winter, here in AZ. Which sounds great but that just means massive amounts of overgrowth and the potential for a severe fire season. Tiffany Davilla is the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management's Public Affairs Officer. While that’s an important job, she’s also an AZ native and ASU graduate who knows all too well the effects fire has on our state.

We also have our favorite State Farm agent, Jeremy Mueller in house to tell us how to prepare for a fire should it hit our house. 

Calendar of Events 

Whiskey of the World @ Sanctuary Camelback
Come and enjoy an evening of fine whiskey and tastings with like minded taste buds. Tickets include Free-flowing pours, food pairings and a take home glass. 

Talliesin West Events
Friday night films. Sunset Sips, Summer camps and family events and Much Ado About Nothing is also playing. 

Arizona Restaurant Week
For all you foodies out there, now's the week to try some of those places on your list. Many pre-fix menus at your favorite place for date night out or with your friends. Support our local restaurants. We all know how much they’re loved.

For all you parents out there still wondering what to do with your kids this summer, listen up as this episode is for you. Summer camps are all the rage but picking the right one for your kid can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this special summer camp edition of Scottsdale Vibes.  

We start with Dr. Rob DiVito of AZ Center for Laser Dentistry and his summer plans. We also talk about why is the time to get in that extra dental work. 

Calendar of Events

Engineering for Kids
Six valley locations with ages 4-14 there is something for your kids to find and enjoy. 

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale
Camp every week this summer from 730am-6pm. Get in quick as there will be a waitlist.

Macaroni Kid Scottsdale Summer Camp Guide
For information on a variety of camps offered in Scottsdale. And don’t forget Veronica has more than just camps, pools, staycations, anything fun she’s in the know about. 

Golf really is life to so many here in AZ. We’ve talked about it before with the AZ Golf Association but today is a little different. I’m excited to talk about this event coming up to support one of Scottsdale’s sister cities, Killarney Ireland. JoAnn Garner is the Chair of the Killarney Committee for Scottsdale Sister Cities Assn.  and Coordinator of the Student Golf Exchange, which we’ll dive into here in a minute. And we also have Mackenzie Shane, 2023-24 Irish Colleen, who is a beneficiary of this year’s Golf Scramble. 

Calendar of Events 

Inaugural Irish Golf Scramble for Scottsdale Sister & St. Patrick's Day Parade & Faire
Join Scottsdale Sister Cities and the Valley’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Faire on May 12, 2023, for a day of golf and Irish fun at the Silverado Golf Club in Scottsdale. With your participation, they are educating our young Arizona Irish Community and building the next generation of Arizona ambassadors to Ireland. Deadline is May 5 to register for the May 12 tournament. 

McCormick-Stillman RR Concert Series

Happening every Sunday night from 7-830 through the end of June. They have a different theme each weekend with multiple food trucks as well. It’s a FREE event and an easy way to get that last bit of energy out before bed. We all know what that’s like, parents. 

Kentucky Derby 

Get out your fancy hats and mint juleps and watch the fastest race for a party. If you’re not lucky enough to be at Churchill Downs this year, then there are plenty of places to enjoy the show here in Scottsdale. The Fairmont Princess, Andaz of Scottsdale and The Phoenician are all hosting events. Find one that fits your fancy and go have a good time.

It all started with a good burger at a local spot. It was almost as if Peter Newlin knew of Birdcall but hadn't found the name yet. He's the co-founder of Birdcall, and all-natural, 100% localy sourced chicken restaurant with local brews too. Birdcall is located at Shea and Scottsdale road and is the first location out of it's home state of Colorado. And we are happy to have them here. 

Calendar of Events 

Jazz Festival
Don’t forget your tickets to the Jazz Festival at the end of this month. Starting at $50, there will no doubt be a weekend of fun. And don’t forget to check out all the events this month to celebrate our city’s love of jazz by listening to Jazz Fest coordinator, Doc Jones who was on last week’s episode

Inaugural Irish Golf Scramble for Scottsdale Sister & St. Patrick's Day Parade & Faire
Join Scottsdale Sister Cities and the Valley’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Faire on May 12, 2023, for a day of golf and Irish fun at the Silverado Golf Club in Scottsdale. With your participation, they are educating our young Arizona Irish Community and building the next generation of Arizona ambassadors to Ireland. Deadline is May 5 to register for the May 12 tournament. 

Spring Concert Series @ Scottsdale Quarter
Live music is back at Scottsdale Quarter. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy live music. You can bring your own picnic or better yet, order some to-go food from one of the many restaurants in the quarter. Fun & free entertainment. My favorite kind! 

You can’t be a part of Arizona and not know know the name, Pat Tillman. He was a man of honor, courage and bravery. And while he isn’t here in body, his legacy continues on each and every day through the Pat Tillman foundation. Pat’s run just celebrated its 19th year, last weekend. The 4.2 mile run ending at 42nd yard line on ASU Sun Devil field in memory of #42 himself. This week I have the honor of speaking with Pat Tillman Foundation CEO Dan Futrell. Dan has a long list of accolades to his name. Growing up in foster care before moving to California to be raised by a single dad. He went on to graduate from Gonzaga on an ROTC scholarship which led him to the military path after graduating. After 5 years in the service he was awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Ranger Tab, and two Bronze Star Medals. In 2011 he was part of the 3rd class of the Pat Tillman foundation and since 2019 holds the title of CEO. 

Calendar of Events 

Junk in the Trunk
Happening this weekend at WestWorld, come and make one person's junk another man’s treasures. Shop over 120,000 sq. ft. filled with 160+ vintage curators and handmade artisans from across the country. Enjoy live music, local food trucks and a unique shopping experience.

Jazz Festival
Don’t forget your tickets to the Jazz Festival at the end of this month. Starting at $50, there will no doubt be a weekend of fun. And don’t forget to check out all the events this month to celebrate our city’s love of jazz by listening to Jazz Fest coordinator, Doc Jones who was on last week’s episode 

Inaugural Irish Golf Scramble for Scottsdale Sister & St. Patrick's Day Parade & Faire
Join Scottsdale Sister Cities and the Valley’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Faire on May 12, 2023, for a day of golf and Irish fun at the Silverado Golf Club in Scottsdale. With your participation, they are educating our young Arizona Irish Community and building the next generation of Arizona ambassadors to Ireland. Deadline is May 5 to register for the May 12 tournament.

Music is something we all need in our lives. It can change a mood, enhance an experience and bring joy to a simple day. While I am a fan of many genres, Jazz has a special place to me and my family. It’s something I enjoy listening to while cooking dinner with my family.  My kids will actually start to pretend to play some of the instruments they hear in the song. I’m so excited to have a local Jazz legend at the table with me today, Doc Jones. Doc Jones moved to AZ in 1986 and has brought the jazz scene alive. And this month he’s heading up the Scottsdale Jazz Festival, where jazz musicians gather to play, dance and give us a good time.

Calendar of Events 

Sure to be a good time is the Scottsdale Jazz Festival. 

Something for everyone and every age. Tickets start at just $50 and go up from there. 

Yoga in the Outfield @ Salt River Fields
Always a big event so get your tickets now. Get there around 730 for yoga to start at 815 followed by a mixer at 915. 

Earth Day at Phoenix Zoo April 15
Happening from 9am-1pm there will be special earth day activities scattered throughout the zoo. Regular admission will cover all these activities. A perfect time to enjoy the outside while celebrating our wonderful Mother Earth.

Golf. Hard to believe there are other sports played here in The Valley as everywhere you look is a golf course. But one organization in particular is celebrating 100 years this year, the AZ Golf Association. The AGA serves as the official governing body of amateur golf in Arizona. What started as a small group of golfers has grown to an association of more than 700 men’s and women’s clubs, serving nearly 80,000 individual members. Today, the AGA is a volunteer-based organization directed by amateur golfers promoting the game of golf and providing valuable benefits and services to its members. This week I have Chris Montgomery who is the Dir of Marketing & Partnerships at AGA. 

Calendar of Events 

Happy Easter and Passover to all those who celebrate. 

Click here to learn more about AZ Golf Association

Hoppy Easter
Scottsdale Quarter is hosting an egg hunt on April 8 from 11-2. Tickets are $5 to secure a bag and eggs for your child. Make an afternoon out of it and enjoy a little shopping while you’re there. 

Frank Lebowitz
Coming to the Scottsdale Center for Performing Arts on April 7. Tickets start at $35. You’re definitely in for night of laughs and puns. 

The Bachelor LIVE on Stage at Salt River Fields 

The ultimate Bachelor Nation fan party comes to Talking Stick Resort for six shows in the form of a wildly flirtatious and interactive evening. The audience and on-stage participants will leave feeling like they just spent an evening at the mansion. Each weekend in April features different Bachelor and Bachelor contestants. Check the link to see which weekend your fan favorite is coming to town.

It’s our 100th episode Scottsdale and that’s only possible because of YOU, the listener tuning in each week. In just this short time, we’ve grown to the top 10% of all podcasts, the 15% most downloaded podcast on Spotify and the go-to podcast for all things Scottsdale! Thank YOU for making this possible. We’re not going anywhere and will continue to grow on Social media, YT and of course, bringing you new and exciting content each week. If you have a story idea or someone you think we should interview, let me know! So many of the people that I feature are recommended to me by fellow listeners. So to showcase all the great things we’ve done for the first 100 episodes, we’re going to hear from some of our past guests on what their favorite Scottsdale Vibes are. 

Calendar of Events 

AZ Bike week
Happening this weekend @ WestWorld. There will be bike rides, drag races, concerts and more. Something for everyone when it comes to the biker community. 

Savannah Bananas with the Scottsdale Charros
This is SURE to be a good time for all! Think of the Harlem Globetrotters for baseball. Nothing but fun and laughs with a little baseball too. The Charros are offering a special in their lodge just for this game. I’ll be out there with my kid’s little league and can’t wait to see you too. 

Spring for Art, Art Show in Old Town
The Scottsdale Artists League, one of the valley's most prestigious arts organizations, invites you to its Spring Fine Art Show in the heart of the Scottsdale Arts District.  It will be a three-day fine art show set in an enchanting garden setting provided by Pearson & Co. on Main Street. Featuring many award-winning artists presenting paintings in many different media and styles, jewelry, gourds, and sculptures.  Meet the artists. Free admission. Free refreshments on Thursday during evening of the Old Town Art Walk.

We all love Scottsdale. From the beautiful weather, the rich history and all that comes with it. But do you really know about the architecture, the history of what happened in that building before our generation? Most of us would say no. Which is where Scottsdale residents Irina and Igor Ilyinski are to help. These two entrepreneurs launched Listen Up, an app to tell you about where you are. 

Calendar of Events 

Animals After Dark, Cirque Show
This adult’s only evening at the Phoenix Zoo is sure to be groovy. This Friday, March 24 from 6-830. Dress in your favorite 70’s gear whistle watching acrobats, jugglers and animals in the night. Tickets can be purchased from the link in the description of this episode. 

Summer Camp Info Session @ McCormick-Stillman Railroad
Parents, it’s actually time to start thinking about summer camps. No time to waste and many of them fill up FAST.  That’s why this Sunday, March 25 from 9-1pm you should go to the Railroad park where camps, museums and more will all be there to showcase their camps for the summer. So while the kids play, you can plan your summer! 

Sam Baker has lived a life. At the young age of 100-years-old he’s determined to make reading fun for the younger generation. He’s a WWII Vet, worked at NASA, raised a family and decided to add published author to his resume. Learning to read wasn’t easy for Sam. So he’s making it his mission to make at least 1 child learn to love to read. And for him, it starts with a good story. 

Happy Spring Break to all the kids out there. Most of the Valley is on a break but there is still plenty of fun to be had. 

Tanya Tucker @ Talking Stick
Friday, March 17 go see classic country star Tanya Tucker sing some of her classics. There’s still tickets available. 

Spring Training
For all you baseball fans this is your time to shine! No matter which team you’re cheering for, you are sure to have great weather and good times. 

SuperHero Festival @ AZ Boardwalk
Bring your little superhero’s out for a day of fun on  March 18. From 10am-2pm kids can enjoy free events from ziplining, slides, bounce houses and more.

Play ball! That’s right Scottsdale, Spring training has officially begun! Formed in 1961, The Scottsdale Charros are an all-volunteer, nonprofit group of business and civic leaders that help build our community by supporting youth sports, education and charitable causes. Scottsdale Charro Bob Weston is here to tell us how the Charros helped bring the SF Giants to Scottsdale and what we can expect this year.

Calendar of Events 

Spring Training
For all you baseball fans this is your time to shine! No matter which team you’re cheering for, you are sure to have great weather and good times. 

Rodeo Scottsdale @ WestWorld
Happening this weekend March 9-12. Heading into it’s 70th year, Parada Del Sol Rodeo is sure to be fun for the whole family. 

Best Picture Fest @ Harkins Theaters
Calling all movie buffs. For $40, come and see all the best picture nominees this week at Harkins theaters.

Tequila is the game and Tezcazul is the name. A new brand of tequila is in town and I’m here to introduce you to one of the men behind the brand, David Fox. David’s friend Mike Rowe has always had a passion for tequila. Between Mike’s passion and David’s expertise in distribution, the two came together to bring us, Tezcazul. A  handcrafted, artisanal tequila, made from organically farmed, sustainable, 100% blue agave. Here to tell us more about this one-of-a-kind tequila is David Fox, of International Brands and Beverages. The sole distributor of Tezcazul, located here in Scottsdale.

We also have our favorite State Farm agent, Jeremy Mueller and Dr. Rob DiVito of AZ Center for Laser Dentistry at the table. We talk about our favorite Scottsdale Super Season memories and of course, tequila. 

Calendar of Events 

Italian Festival in PHX
Happening this weekend at Heritage Square. Plenty of food, music and Italian wine beer for you to enjoy 2 days worth of fun.

Spring Training
For all you baseball fans this is your time to shine! No matter which team you’re cheering for, you sure to have great weather and good times. 

Old Town Art Walk
This week’s art walk is dedicated to the Native Spirit, encompassing our heritage and homeland. Happens from 630-9pm. Get an evening stroll in while seeing artists and the galleries glow in the desert nightlife.

Let's start with our favorite Scottsdale Realtor, Shawn Shackelton. We dive into the maket, interest rates and what Scottsdale can look forward to. 
(this episode was recorded earlier and some numbers / stats may not be up-to-date) 

Experience Scottsdale is a one-stop shop to learn about all the great events and places in Scottsdale, besides this podcast of course. The leader is none other than Rachel Sacco, President and CEO of Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau for over 30 years. Actually the owner leader of Experience Scottsdale. She’s a Scottsdale Hall of Fame inductee as well as Drinkwater Leadership Award Winner from Scottsdale Leadership. When it comes to Scottsdale, AZ  Rachel and her team at Experience Scottsdale put us on the map. 

Calendar of Events

Jet Center Foundation
The Jet Center Event is a benefit for local charities and includes a silent auction offering trips, gift baskets, artwork, spirits, a wine pull and something for all price ranges and interests. Local benefactor organizations include Angel Flight West who provide free medical transportation to people in need, Lost Our Home pet rescue that provides compassionate service to animals in crisis, and Kettey’s Exchange funding orphanages in Ghana and Mexico. The event is this Saturday Feb 25 with Ticket pricing  starting at $195. 

Arabian Horse Show
The largest Arabian Horse show in the world is still going on this week. Events happening everyday until 6pm. Don’t forget to listen to last week’s episode with Cathy Vecsey to hear more. 

Spring Training
It’s time!! Spring Training is officially starting this week. Games throughout the days for your favorite teams. 

Director of the Arabian Horse Association of AZ, Cathy Vecsey has been a part of the Arabian horse community for decades. She’s been competing at the national level since the early 80s. In 2017, Cathy and her husband made the cross-country trip from Connecticut to Arizona with 14 animals in tow. 10 of which being her beloved horses. She is now sits as a Dir on the board of the Arabian Horse Association of AZ, is the trainer for Hawk Haven Farms and still competes as an amatuer.

Arabian Horse Show 

Happening at WestWorld from Feb 16-26. Check online for certain tickets deals and discounts  such as Military day on Tuesday. 

Arizona Fine Art Expo
Tickets start at $12. A beautiful event where artist from around the world come to showcase their work and even do a little work themselves while you watch.

It is here!!! The WM Open and Super Bowl week officaly begins, right now! While we're all excited to join in on the many festivites, and I mean many, the people working behind the scenes are the real heros. There is a lot to take in and consider when it comes to keeping us and our great city safe during the cfrazy week. 

Capt. David Folio has been with the SFD for 32 years. He’s a father of 5, saved countless lives, put out fires but I’d be willing to bet all that doesn't add up to the chaos he and his team are about to see when it comes to Scottsdale and the Valley, this week. Pulling out the playbook from 2015, the last time The WM Open and Super Bowl were in town together, is a good start. But, times have changed and so have the safety measures. David joins me at the table to tell us how to prepare for a week of fun and hopefully not too many Shenanigans. 

We also have Dr. Rob DiVito with AZ Center for Laser Denistry at the table. He tells us about what he's most looking forward to this week. Concerts, golf, huge crowds and lots of pretty smiles. 

Calendar of Events 

It is officially Scottsdale’s Week to Shine!

WM OPEN
Free to the Public M-W. GA tickets start at $60 on Thursday/Sunday and $75 for Friday/Saturday. Remember to be prepared, be patient and have fun. It’s going to be a big one. 

AZ Super Bowl Week

There are more activities happening than I think one person can attend. From the Super Bowl Experience at Phoenix Convention Center, ESPN in Old Town in front of Rusty Spur, endless amounts of parties & concerts and of course the Big Game out in Glendale. Plenty of fun to be had with friends or family. 

Parada del Sol Parade and Trail’s End Festival is in its 69th year. Scottsdale’s Western Week kicks off the week’s long festivities. Parades, the Hashknife Pony Express, Native American festivals, gold mining, live music, and museum exhibits are just some of the events happening this week. All wrapped up with the Parada del Sol Parade on Saturday Feb 4. Dr. Joe Deka is this year’s Parada Boss leading this year’s Parada del Sol Parade, hosted by the Scottsdale Charros. And I’m excited to hear how this week is going to stand out.

Calendar of Events 

Scottsdale Western Week
Happening right now. Events each night this week so check the link for details. The Parade is happening on Sat, Feb 4 and if you can’t make it in person or you can always catch it on TV. 

WM OPEN
Free to the Public M-W. GA tickets start at $60 on Thursday/Sunday and $75 for Friday/Saturday. Remember to be prepared, be patient and have fun. It’s going to be a big one. 

AZ Super Bowl Week

There are more activities happening than I think one person can attend. From the Super Bowl Experience at Phoenix Convention Center, ESPN in Old Town in front of Rusty Spur, endless amounts of parties & concerts and of course the Big Game out in Glendale. Plenty of fun to be had with friends or family. 

Started in 1954,The Boys & Girls Club of greater Scottsdale now has 9 area locations. It’s a safe place for kids to attend camps, after school activities, award winning scholarships and more. President and CEO Ivan Gilreath joins me at the table to talk about the benefits of Boys & Girls Club, how we can support the kids in our community and what’s ahead.

Calendar of Events 

To learn more about Scottsdale Boys & Girls Club and how you can help support our kids https://bgcs.org/

Street Eats Food Truck Festival

Happening this Saturday & Sunday at Salt River Fields, come and enjoy dozens of food trucks from around the Valley. From 11am-5pm tickets start at $12 for General Admission. Buy ahead to get a discount and kids 12 and under are FREE.

Barett-Jackson Car Show
Don’t forget to check out the Barrett-Jackson car show happening this week. Buy tickets online to save a few bucks, and remember, it is a family fun event! Listen to last week’s episode to hear more from Craig Jackson himself. 

Scottsdale Western Week
Starts this weekend Jan 28-Feb 5. Events all week long starting with Museum of the West, taking a tour of all the Parada del Sol events, a Western Themed Art Walk on Thursday night and of course the Parada del Sol parade to cap off the week on Feb 4.