You voted for more than 4,000 nominees in nearly 400 categories (equaling 1.5 million-plus views at AZFoothills.com). Now, it is time to get to know your Best of Our Valley 2014 winners. From your favorite restaurants and resorts to your choice schools and shops, Arizona Foothills Magazine presents Best of Our Valley 2014.
Maintaining ourselves and our health is easy to do with the Valley’s best of the best specialists, fitness experts and physicians and vast amenities and services.
Story by Elizabeth Liberatore
BEST BOARD- CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON: MALE – DR. JOSEPH C. BERA
Dr. Joseph C. Berardi of Berardi Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery is a board- certified plastic surgeon who is highly trained in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Berardi has been in practice for eight years and specializes in breast augmentation, facial surgery, abdominoplasty and more. Patients in Scottsdale and Phoenix have named Dr. Berardi and his staff as the best in providing beautiful results along with compassionate and attentive care. Patients are treated as an individual, and Dr. Berardi listens to their interests and goals. As a patient you can be confident that your experience will be beyond your expectations. 480.502.4567, www.theplasticsurgeon.org.
BEST BOARD- CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON: FEMALE – DR. PATTI FLINT
Dr. Patti Flint has been in practice for 17 years and is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Flint knew she wanted to be a surgeon once she entered medical school. She continues to be a lifelong student as plastic surgery is a very dynamic field with new procedures and treatments developed every year. Dr. Flint lives by her philosophy that “if [she] cannot create a natural-appearing result, [she] will not perform the procedure.” Dr. Flint listens to her patients’ goals and strives to create excellent, natural results. www.pattiflintmd.com.
BEST ALTERNATIVE EXERCISE OPTION & PERSONAL TRAINING AND BEST BARRE STUDIO – KARVE STUDIO
Unlike a traditional gym, Karve Studio offers ballet barre fitness techniques that lean, firm and sculpt the body by reshaping and elongating the major muscles. Karve is the fastest, most effective and safest way to change your body from the inside out. Karve has three Valley locations (Scottsdale, North Scottsdale and Gilbert). www.karvestudio.com.
BEST BOOT CAMP/ GROUP TRAINING – JEREMY SCOTT FITNESS
Group training at Jeremy Scott Fitness promises clients of all fitness levels results in just 30-minute workouts. The goal of Scott and his team of experts is to help clients reach their maximum potential in a variety of different group training programs. Scott is not only dedicated to helping Valley residents achieve their fitness goals, but he is also devoted to enriching lifestyles and raising quality of life through healthy fitness practices. www.jeremyscottfitness.com.
BEST CROSSFIT/ INTERVAL TRAINING – ZONE ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE
Founder of Zone Athletic Performance, Evan Mathis, and his team of experts have elevated numerous professional athletes to the best shape of their careers while helping hundreds of Scottsdale residents lose thousands of pounds and raise their personal fitness levels. ZoneFit classes bring together all types of fitness activities under one roof. There is strength training, high-intensity interval training, recovery and mobility days, core training and plyometrics. www.zoneathleticperformance.com.
BEST ALTERNATIVE SPA TREATMENT – DREAMBODY MEDICAL CENTERS
Founder and medical director of DreamBody Medical Centers, Paul Alexander Budnick, M.D., opened DreamBody in 2009. The center specializes in liposuction surgery as well as providing the most advanced age- management program in the Valley. The DreamBody staff ensures each patient receives individualized care in order to design a comprehensive treatment plan based on their needs and lifestyle goals. The staff is dedicated to helping Valley residents achieve their very own dream body. www.dreambodycenters.com.
Dr. John Couvaras, Dr. Brian Harris and wife Maury, Dr. Michael Yasinski
BEST FERTILITY DOCTOR – DR. JOHN COUVARAS
BEST DENTIST OR DENTAL TEAM – DR ALLEN PEYGHAMBARIAN
Paradise Ridge Dentistry is a family- friendly practice, where taking care of patients is the No. 1 order of business. Dr. Peyghambarian, or “Dr. P,” and his team enjoy building relationships with their patients and work hard to ensure visitors feel as comfortable as possible while in their care. Dr. P has nearly 10 years of experience as a dentist, and he is continually keeping up to date with the latest tools and technology the profession has to offer. www.phoenixarizonadentistry.com.
BEST DERMATOLOGIST – DR. LEE LARIS
Dr. Lee Laris of Phoenix Skin Dermatology has been practicing in the Valley since 1992. Dr. Laris is highly trained in all areas of medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology. He is a board-certified Fellow of the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology as well as a member of countless dermatological associations. www.phxskin.com.
BEST FAMILY DOCTOR – TIE: DR. DAWN COHEN AND DR. SUSAN WILDER
When searching for a family doctor, you want someone patient, thorough and professional. Dr. Dawn Cohen and Dr. Susan Wilder are your go-to pros for an excellent family physician. Dr. Cohen earned her degree from the Case Western Reserve School of Medicine in Cleveland and completed her specialty training in Family Medicine at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix. She has been practicing with Healthy Outlook Family Medicine for more than 10 years. Dr. Susan Wilder is the founder and CEO of LifeScape Medical Associates and LifeScape Premier. Dr. Wilder completed her specialty training in Family Medicine at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland where she stayed on as faculty and assistant chairman of the Department of Family Medicine. www.healthyoutlookfamilymedicine.com; www.lifescapemed.com.
BEST GYM – RESULTS ONLY
Results Only has the most attentive and knowledgeable staff, cutting-edge training methods and an incredible motivating environment. The Phoenix gym excels at providing personal training experiences in a group training environment which results in high-energy, cost-effective programming. www.resultsonly.com.
BEST HAIR EXTENSIONS – AZ STRANDS
Why wait for luscious locks when AZ Strands can help you get Rapunzel hair instantly? AZ Strands has been providing Phoenicians with hair extensions since 1998. There is no heat, adhesives or harmful chemicals—only 100 percent human hair. The process only takes two hours to complete. www.azstrands.com.
BEST HAIR STYLIST – JODI SALVATORE, STEVEN PAUL SALON
Looking for a new ‘do? Let Jodi Salvatore work her magic. Salvatore loves creating amazing looks and setting trends in the hair industry. She has been a quintessential salon professional and fashion leader who has mastered the art of cutting, coloring and relaxing and is an expert at achieving unbelievable results that get peoples’ heads to turn. www.scottsdalesalonstylist.com.
BEST HOSPICE – HOSPICE OF THE VALLEY
Hospice of the Valley cares for many of its patients in their place of residence. When the needs of the patient and family can be better met in an inpatient setting, the patient can stay for a short period in one of the hospice’s palliative care units. Hospice patients are cared for by a team of healthcare professionals who focus on their physical and emotional needs and spiritual well-being. www.hov.org.
BEST COSMETIC DENTIST – DR. BRIAN HARRIS
Communication is a simple concept that is often overlooked in the world of cosmetic den- tistry. Listening to what patients really want and delivering a product that exceeds their expectations is what has allowed Dr. Brian Harris of Harris Dental to be one of the Valley’s very best. There are five Harris Dental locations in the Valley. www.harrisdental.com.
BEST HOSPITAL GROUP – CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS OF AMERICA
Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) in Goodyear offers a comprehensive, fully integrated approach to cancer treatment all under one roof—always keeping the patient at the forefront. CTCA provides each patient with a multi-disciplinary team of experts that not only empowers patients by providing them with information about their cancer and their treatment options, but also provides state-of-the-art cancer care in an environment created specifically for healing and hope. www.cancercenter.com/western.
BEST HOT YOGA – LIFEPOWER AT PIMA CROSSING
Looking to center yourself in mind, body and soul while sweating out toxins? Well, LifePower at Pima Crossing has the best hot yoga classes in the Valley. LifePower at Pima Crossing is an oasis in the heart of Scottsdale and the perfect destination for restoring a sense of calm. Yogis will enjoy energetic classes that use a flowing series of postures to create heat within the body to increase strength, flexibility, endurance and balance. www.lifetimefitness.com.
BEST HOTEL GYM AND BEST SPA BOUTIQUE – VH SPA AT HOTEL VALLEY HO
Hotel Valley Ho’s fitness center and VH Spa trump all others in the Valley. Guests can indulge in a revitalizing treatment at VH Spa or enjoy a blood-pumping workout with pool views during their stay. The fitness center is open 24/7 and is fully stocked with FreeMotion workout equipment, free weights, Precor cardio equipment and a Concept 2 Rower. Private classes are held every week, like yoga, Pilates and personal training. After your work- out, freshen up at the VH Spa where a team of experts will lavish you with a selection of facials and massages. Don’t forget to stop by the VH Spa Boutique where you can pick up essentials like workout wear, healthy snacks and bath and body products. www.hotelvalleyho.com.
BEST MANI/PEDI, BEST MASSAGE AND BEST RESORT SPA – AGAVE, THE ARIZONA SPA AT THE WESTIN KIERLAND RESORT AND SPA
Looking for a staycation where you can be pampered from head-to-toe with fresh and fabulous spa amenities and services? Agave, The Arizona Spa at The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa is just for you. Agave offers treatments inspired by traditional practices handed down through many of Arizona’s native cultures as well as therapies infused with healing traditions from the Far East. Agave offers a variety of massages and facials complete with skin analysis, cleansing, steam, exfoliation, masque and extractions. After your skin feels rejuvenated, enjoy a fresh mani-pedi where nail specialists can get your digits in divine shape. www.kierlandresort.com/agave-scottsdale-spa.
BEST NEW GYM/FITNESS STUDIO – THE EXERCISE COACH
The Exercise Coach, a leading-edge, high- tech health and fitness franchise, offers a unique and comprehensive approach that delivers real results in just two 20-minute workouts a week. The Exercise Coach in North Scottsdale recently opened in May 2013 and has already created buzz around the Valley. The Exercise Coach’s mission is sweet and simple: to help people enjoy the strength they need to maximize the life they have. www.exercisecoach.com.
BEST ORTHODONTIST – DR. BEN LARRABEE
At Advanced Orthodontics, you are in good hands. Dr. Ben Larrabee and his team of experts are constantly bringing new technology and techniques to their patients. Dr. Larrabee completed his dental school training at the University of Michigan and received his master’s degree in orthodontics at Marquette University. His goal is simple: to give patients a beautiful model-like
smile with an amazing experience. www.advancedorthoonline.com.
BEST PSYCHIATRIST IN SCOTTSDALE/ PARADISE VALLEY – DR. MICHAEL YASINSKI
Dr. Michael Yasinski is a board-certified psychiatrist who offers the most person- alized service in Scottsdale. He is one of the only pros offering therapy and medication expertise and the only psychiatrist in the country with a personalized house-call practice. Dr. Yasinski will do anything in his power to help his patients get through their darkest moments of desperation and despair. After all, he is only a phone-call away. www.yasinskipsychiatry.com.
BEST PLACE TO PURCHASE WORKOUT GEAR – LUCY
lucy has forever changed how women dress in athletics. No longer are we confined to heinous leotards and legwarmers. Thanks to lucy, women’s workout gear is now fitted, flattering and fashionable. All of lucy sportswear styles are designed and developed by women who do activities like yoga, running, training, exploring the outdoors and traveling. So don’t just step into the gym; make a statement with your lucy attire. www.lucy.com.
BEST PEDIATRIC DENTIST OFFICE – DESERT RIDGE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
The dentist’s office can be a scary scenario for any small child. However, the doctors at Desert Ridge Pediatric Dentistry offer a unique pediatric dental experience that is fun and effective by combining the right mix of personalized care and the most advanced technology currently available, with a commitment to excellence. Desert Ridge Pediatric Dentistry is putting that scary dental experience to shame, and giving children of Arizona a reason to smile. www.azkidsdds.com.
BEST SALON – ZOLTON’S SALON & DAY SPA
Zolton’s in Scottsdale is a full-service salon and day spa that offers customers the widest selection of hair, nail and aesthetic services. Salon services include hair care, Brazilian blowouts and hair extensions. After getting a fresh new ‘do, the day spa offers mani/ pedis, facials (including a vegan facial), waxing, peels, eyelash extensions and even permanent makeup. www.zoltons.com.
BEST PILATES STUDIO – IM = X PILATES
Did you know that IM=X? If not, don’t blame your math teacher. Integrated Movement Xercize (IM=X) is a new generation of Pilates reformer- and cardio-inspired workouts enjoyed by Valley exercise enthusiasts. Founder of IM=X, Elyse McNergney, created this program to offer a total fitness approach—one that integrates Pilates exercises with strength and cardiovascular training. www.imxpilates.net.
BEST PLACE TO TAKE SPIN CLASS – COREBALANCE STUDIO
Phoenicians are spicing up their regular workout routines with CoreBalance Studio. CoreBalance Studio in Phoenix offers a variety of energetic classes that keep exercise enthusiasts coming back for more. CoreBalance offers several spinning classes— one of which has a live DJ so exercisers can spin those pedals while the DJ spins his turn tables. www.corebalancestudio.com.
BEST RETIREMENT/SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY – CANTAMIA AT ESTRELLA
CantaMia is a new active adult community in Goodyear that is transforming into an artistic and visionary neighborhood focused on sustainable living. CantaMia offers home choices in tune with nature as it is nestled among the lakes and high Sonoran desert. At CantaMia, the journey is your own and the choices are many, encouraging healthy connections with the environment and one another. www.cantamiaestrella.net.
BEST BEAUTY SCHOOL – STUDIO ACADEMY OF BEAUTY
Studio Academy of Beauty offers students a multi-faceted and dynamic education in the beauty industry. The staff at Studio Academy of Beauty focuses on your career, offering learning experiences from fashion shows, competitions, field trips and much more. Here, you will be using top world- wide brands including Redken, Chi and Design Essentials. From the moment you start school, your education will prepare you for an exciting career in the beauty industry. www.thestudioacademyofbeauty.com.
BEST TRAINER – LUCAS JAMES
Lucas James is a five-star-rated celebrity personal trainer in Scottsdale. James has been nationally recognized in the health and fitness industry in high-profile media including Bravo, Huffington Post and US Weekly. He is endorsed by doctors and has had a passion for fitness for the past 19 years. As a client, you’ll receive an array of luxury services that include one-on-one, in-home personal training. James also provides customized meal plans to give clients an experience that’s unparalleled to any other. www.lucasjames personaltraining.com.
Lucas James, Dr. Tara Brodkin
BEST OB/GYN – DR. TARA BRODKIN
BEST URGENT CARE – NEXTCARE URGENT CARE
NextCare Urgent Care is one of the nation’s leading urgent care providers. Whether you need assistance during the daytime, evenings, weekends or even on holidays, NextCare’s experienced, compassionate staff and health care providers are dedicated to you 24/7. www.nextcare.com.
BEST WAXING – RIO WAX SALON
Rio Wax Salon is home to Arizona’s hair- removal expert, Dannielli Marcelino (known as “The Queen of Waxing”), and her highly trained licensed estheticians. Rio’s hair- removal specialists are able to deliver the most painless Brazilian wax and bikini wax experience in Arizona because of Marcelino’s unique waxing technique, plus her exclusive wax formula designed specially for sensitive areas. www.riowaxsalon.com.
BEST YOGA STUDIO – ONE LOVE YOGA
Fall in love with the experienced staff and fellow yogis at One Love Yoga. One Love Yoga’s goal is to create a warm, inviting environment that explores different paths to health, healing and personal growth. One Love Yoga strives to be a source of inspiration and information, along with offering products and services that enhance the lives of students and the overall community. www.oneloveyogaaz.com.
BEST YOGA TEACHER – MATT HODGES
Matt Hodges’ yoga classes are challenging yet energetic and, of course, fun. Hodges teaches yoga at some of Arizona’s most popular studios, like Sumits Yoga Biltmore and Sumits Yoga Scottsdale. When he isn’t teaching his yogis, he models for Spiritual Gangster clothing. www.sumitsyoga.com.
BEST SPRAY TAN – DESIGNER SHADES
Although we are called the Valley of the Sun, no one wants to sunbathe in the scorching hot heat. The airbrush experts at Designer Shades exclusively use Norvell professional sunless tanning products, and the spray rooms are equipped with top-of- the-line filtration booths to remove extra spray from the air. www.getsunless.com.
BEST DAY SPA OR NAIL SALON AND BEST FACIAL – LUXE SALON & SPA
Luxury lies within luxe salon & spa in Chandler. Luxe is a family-owned and -operated business and offers all the benefits of an upscale salon with a variety of different beauty services and amenities, all while making clients feel like they are a part of the Luxe family. Enjoy customized facials, massages and spa pedicures by specialists who regularly receive ongoing education with the latest products and techniques. www.luxesalonaz.com.
BEST PILATES INSTRUCTOR – LISA BETTINI MORO, THE PILATES BODY
Lisa Bettini Moro of The Pilates Body has been a physical fitness professional for more than 20 years and a certified Stott Pilates teacher since 2003. Moro holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education/Exercise Science from Arizona State University and began her career in the health club industry. She is now the owner of The Pilates Body in Arcadia. She feels passionately that the comprehensive approach of Pilates, along with its beauty and mind-to-body precision, can create profound changes to an individual’s physical function and quality of life. www.pilatesbodyaz.com.
