Wespac Construction invests in its future, promoting 7 professionals in project engineering

Wespac Construction invests in its future, promoting 7 professionals in project engineering

News & Updates

PHOENIX, Arizona — Wespac Construction is proud to announce the promotion of seven team members whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence continue to strengthen the company’s success and culture.

The following professionals have been promoted:

  • David Rich to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
  • Jack Call to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
  • Johnny Read to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
  • Jovani Almeida to Project Engineer from Estimating Project Engineer
  • Lucas Doerksen to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer
  • Mattson Heidemann to Project Manager from Senior Project Engineer
  • Thomas Partin to Senior Project Engineer from Project Engineer

For 35 years, Wespac Construction has built its reputation on strong relationships, exceptional service, and a commitment to delivering quality projects that help strengthen Arizona communities.

These promotions reflect the company’s continued investment in developing talent and recognizing individuals who embody Wespac’s core values of Builder, Driven, Excellence, and Integrity.

“Our growth has always started with great people,” said Glenn Leier, Wespac Vice President of Client Strategy & Vision. “These team members have consistently demonstrated leadership, dedication, and a commitment to delivering outstanding results for our clients and partners. Their promotions are well deserved, and we are proud to recognize their contributions as they help lead Wespac into the future.”

Wespac congratulates each of these employees on their accomplishments and looks forward to their continued success.

About Wespac

Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion, and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.

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by Sep 24, 2026
Harvard Investments announces next phase of growth with Tim Brislin as CEO and President, Craig Krumwiede as Executive Chairman

Harvard Investments announces next phase of growth with Tim Brislin as CEO and President, Craig Krumwiede as Executive Chairman

News & Updates

The transition reflects a succession strategy ensuring continuity, stability, and ongoing development across the Southwest.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Sept. 16, 2026) — Harvard Investments today announced a planned leadership transition that reflects the company’s long-term commitment to thoughtful succession, organizational stability, and continued growth. Tim Brislin today assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer and President; Craig Krumwiede, who has led the company as CEO and President since 1994, transitions to Executive Chairman.

As CEO and President, Brislin leads the company’s operations, investment activities, and development initiatives throughout the Southwestern U.S. As Executive Chairman, Krumwiede remains actively involved in shaping the company’s long-term vision, mentoring its leadership team, and providing strategic guidance on major initiatives and opportunities.

“This transition is the result of an intentional process that has been years in the making,” Krumwiede said. “I had the privilege of working alongside Tim for nearly two decades and watched him develop into an exceptional leader. He understands our culture, our passion for placemaking, and our responsibility to the communities we serve. I have complete confidence in his ability to lead Harvard Investments into its next chapter while remaining true to the values that have defined this company for generations.”

Krumwiede also expressed his gratitude to the Hill family, owners of Harvard Investments through the Hill Companies, for their support throughout his tenure. He credited their long-term vision, trust, and commitment to the organization as instrumental to Harvard’s growth and success.

“One of the greatest privileges of my career has been the opportunity to work alongside the Hill family. I had the honor of working with three generations of Hill leaders.  Throughout that time, they have consistently demonstrated their commitment to Harvard Investments, its people, and its mission. I am deeply grateful for those relationships and confident that their stewardship and support will continue to serve Harvard well for generations to come,” Krumwiede said.

Brislin joined Harvard in 2007 and was promoted to President in 2023. During his tenure, he oversaw acquisitions, development strategy, funding, entitlements, construction, and growth initiatives across the company’s expanding portfolio.

Brislin played a key leadership role in the development of Harvard’s master-planned communities throughout Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico, the launch and growth of the company’s FirstStreet build-to-rent platform, and numerous strategic acquisitions. Most recently, he helped guide project teams in major master plans including Estrella and Solstice Foothills in Goodyear, Arizona.

“It is an incredible honor to assume the role of CEO of Harvard Investments. Much of what I know about leadership, vision, and stewardship comes from learning alongside Craig and Senior Vice President Chris Cacheris, and the exceptional team we built together. Harvard Investments is about more than real estate,” Brislin said. “We create places where families thrive, businesses grow, and communities endure.”

Brislin’s real estate career spans over 25 years, including nearly 20 with Harvard Investments. He is active in numerous industry and community organizations, including the Urban Land Institute, Valley Partnership as a Board Member and former Chair, Pinal Partnership, the National Association of Home Builders, the American Heart Association, and the Luke Air Force Base Honorary Commanders Program.

Krumwiede’s legacy at the firm spans more than four decades and includes overseeing the company’s transformation into one of the Southwest’s most respected real estate investment and development organizations. He has guided the company through multiple economic cycles while establishing a culture focused on long-term value creation, responsible development, and community building.

“What has always made Harvard special is our belief that great development begins with unique places and exceptional people,” Krumwiede said. “We don’t measure success by short-term results. We focus on creating enduring value for residents, businesses, partners, and communities. Looking back, I am incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished, and looking ahead, I am even more excited about what the next generation of leadership will achieve.”

Widely respected throughout the local and national industry, Krumwiede serves as an Urban Land Institute Governor, a mentor to emerging industry leaders, and a dedicated supporter of the Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business. Krumwiede is deeply involved in numerous civic and philanthropic organizations, including the C4 Foundation, which provides resources and support uniquely tailored to active-duty Navy SEALs and their families.

Krumwiede also played a leading role in advancing Arizona’s recently enacted “Ag to Urban” groundwater legislation, SB 1611, which established a framework for converting agricultural land to residential development while conserving water resources.

“I look forward to focusing on the long-term strategy of the company, supporting our leadership team, and advancing initiatives that strengthen Harvard, our industry, and the communities we serve,” Krumwiede added. “Arizona and the Southwest have provided tremendous opportunities for our company and our families over the years, and I remain deeply committed to helping ensure that the region’s future is every bit as strong as its past.”

“Every generation has the opportunity to build on the work of those who came before it. The foundation Craig and the Hill family built is extraordinary. The future of Harvard Investments is incredibly bright, and I am humbled and energized to help lead that journey,” Brislin said.

About Harvard Investments  

Harvard Investments, Inc. is a real estate investment and development company with real estate holdings throughout the western United States. Harvard combines experience, integrity, and financial stability to create high-quality, environmentally sensitive, profitable communities including both large scale master planned communities and build-to-rent neighborhoods. Harvard’s Canadian parent, the Hill Companies, is a privately held diversified company involved in real estate development including construction and leasing of commercial office buildings and retail properties, oil and gas production and distribution, broadcasting, surety bonding, and insurance. The Hill Companies celebrated its 123rd year of continuous family ownership and operation in 2026. To learn more visit harvardinvestments.com.

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by Sep 16, 2026
Wespac Construction completes Sprouts Farmers Market headquarters, flagship store at CityNorth

Wespac Construction completes Sprouts Farmers Market headquarters, flagship store at CityNorth

News & Updates

New North Phoenix development brings the specialty grocer’s operations, plus retail and restaurant space, and structured parking on a 7-acre site.

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Sept. 16, 2026) — Wespac Construction has completed the new Sprouts Farmers Market support office and flagship store at CityNorth in Phoenix, delivering a long-term home for one of Arizona’s most recognized public companies and adding a new public destination to the fast-growing North Phoenix district.

The project totals approximately 186,000 SF  at 20555 N. 55th St., near the Loop 101 and 56th Street. It includes an approximately 145,000 SF corporate headquarters, a 25,000 SF flagship Sprouts store, 11,000 SF of retail and restaurant space, and a three-level parking structure.

The project gives Sprouts a long-term base for its corporate operations while opening a grocery and retail destination to the public. It brings workplace, wellness, food, and community together on a single site, and it reflects how major employers are now building headquarters that work for employees, customers, and the surrounding neighborhood at the same time.

“In touring the new headquarters, I was impressed by its reflection of the Sprouts Farmers Market culture, and Wespac Construction has delivered a project that captures the feel of a growing and modern Phoenix,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “By taking advantage of innovative construction processes with advanced materials, Wespac completed the project on an ambitious timeline and delivered Sprouts an HQ that combined the needs of a growing national business with modern design and spaces that fit our local community.”

The headquarters includes a multi-story atrium built to host company-wide meetings and events, an on-site PRESS Coffee location, a fitness center, culinary kitchens, a rooftop deck, and a community garden. Two additional retail buildings on the site will bring future dining and shopping options for team members, customers, and the community.

Architectural and construction elements include aluminum composite material panels, decorative masonry, expansive curtain wall glazing, standing seam metal roofing, and a precast concrete parking structure with integral color concrete, sandblasted finishes, and horizontal metal panel accents.

The project team included Sprouts Farmers Market, Trammell Crow Company, RSP Architects, Keyser, JLL, and Wespac Construction.

Sprouts Farmers Market is one of the largest and fastest growing specialty grocers in the United States. The Phoenix-based company employs approximately 36,000 team members and operates more than 490 stores in 25 states. The new development anchors its continued national growth from its home market.

About Wespac

Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion, and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.

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by Sep 16, 2026
The Knipp name celebrates 50 years of building trust in construction in Arizona, the Southwest

The Knipp name celebrates 50 years of building trust in construction in Arizona, the Southwest

News & Updates

PHOENIX, Ariz. (September 15, 2026) – For 50 years, the Knipp name has been a recognizable presence in the construction industry, building a reputation grounded in credibility, professionalism, and long-term relationships.

     Wally Knipp, CEO and Principal, is precise about what the milestone covers. The 50 years belong to the Knipp name in construction, not to Knipp Contracting, which he started in 2009.

“The Knipp name has been representative in the construction industry for five decades,” Knipp said. “What I want people to take away is that when the Knipp name is on something, somebody is accountable for it.”

The roots trace back to Wally’s father, Michael R. Knipp, who built Knipp Brothers in the 1970s with his brothers Larry and Ed. Over the decades, the Knipp name expanded its services, adapted to changing markets, and developed expertise across multiple sectors of the construction industry.

The significance of five decades of the Knipp name in construction? The family kept finding a way through; three brothers started something in the 70s; the Valley grew up around them; they built houses when that’s what the market wanted. Then they found work with investors when the housing market slumped. Now it’s senior living and school renovations. That’s where the need is.

According to Knipp, one of the most significant achievements has been the ability to evolve alongside the industry.

Wally Knipp

“We’ve adapted to the needs within the construction industry,” he said. “Whether it was production homebuilding, general contracting, or expanding into markets across the country, adaptability has been critical.”

The sharpest test came in 2008. The family business served institutional investors through the housing recession, and in 2009, at the bottom of the market, Wally Knipp started Knipp Contracting at a kitchen table.

“We were conservative when it was boring to be conservative,” he said. “That’s the only reason the name made it through the bad markets in one piece.”

Over the years, the construction industry itself has undergone dramatic changes. Knipp points to labor challenges and global supply chain pressures as among the biggest shifts.

“We’ve gone from having a surplus of experienced labor to a significant shortage,” he said. “At the same time, pricing, availability of materials, and global events have had a major impact on construction.”

Throughout those changes, the Knipp name has focused on identifying emerging opportunities and positioning itself for long-term success. Whether entering new geographic markets, serving institutional investors during the housing recession, or expanding into growing sectors such as senior living and commercial tenant improvement, the company has continually looked for ways to evolve.

“We’ve always tried to keep an eye on where the market is going and trust our instincts when it’s time to pivot,” Knipp said.

Central to that success is a set of core values represented by the acronym KNIPP, which serves as the foundation of the company’s culture and decision-making process.

     “For us, these aren’t marketing buzzwords,” Knipp explained. “They’re the compass we use to make decisions and evaluate whether we’re moving in the right direction. Those values have been part of who we are for years. They’ve helped shape our culture and contributed to the longevity of the Knipp name in construction.”

Looking ahead, Knipp is optimistic about the future, particularly with growth opportunities in Arizona including senior living developments, retail and restaurant construction, schools and community facilities, clubhouses, and strategic partnerships that continue to expand the company’s reach.

He points to the rapid growth of the Metro Phoenix market and the company’s longstanding relationship with Shea Homes as opportunities that position it for continued success. While much has changed over the past five decades, Knipp said he believes the foundation remains the same.

“It’s about preserving the reputation, continuing to adapt and creating opportunities for the next generation,” he said. “That’s what the Knipp name has stood for over the last 50 years, and that’s what it will continue to stand for in the future.”

Shea Homes corporate offices at Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona.

About Knipp Enterprises

 Knipp Enterprises is a commercial general contractor specializing in tenant improvements, capital renovations, and site upgrades across worship, educational, restaurant, commercial, and senior living sectors throughout the Western U.S. Knipp Contracting is a sister company under Knipp Enterprises. Known for direct site oversight and schedule control, Knipp Contracting delivers tailored construction solutions built to perform.  For more information on Knipp Contracting’s services or to inquire about upcoming commercial and institutional projects, visit knippcontracting.com.

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by Sep 15, 2026
Woman-owned Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation celebrates 50 years of excellence

Woman-owned Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation celebrates 50 years of excellence

News & Updates

PHOENIX, ARIZ.  (September 15, 2026) – Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation (AEF) is celebrating 50 years in business in 2026, marking five decades of specialized commercial and business escrow service while looking ahead to continued growth in Arizona and beyond.

Founded in 1976, the woman-owned company has grown alongside Arizona’s business community while remaining independently owned and focused exclusively on escrow. Today, AEF works with business owners, brokers, attorneys, lenders and companies across Arizona, the U.S. and internationally.

The anniversary year has also brought several notable milestones for AEF and its leadership.

AEF recently became an Arizona Cardinals Small Business Partner, connecting the company with one of Arizona’s most recognized organizations and expanding its visibility throughout the state.

The company has also been named a 2026 BBB Torch Awards for Ethics finalist. BBB’s highest honor recognizes businesses for excellence in leadership, workplace culture, customer care and community impact. The competition includes businesses throughout Greater Arizona, San Diego County and Orange County, with the winner to be announced November 19, 2026.

AEF President Annette Anderson was named one of AZRE magazine’s Most Influential Women in Real Estate for 2026, following CEO Monica May-Dunn, who received the recognition in 2024.

May-Dunn was also named a Top 10 finalist for the 2026 NAWBO National Woman Business Owner of the Year Award, recognized during NAWBO Days in Washington, D.C. on May 31.

“Reaching 50 years gives us an opportunity to appreciate the people and relationships that built this company, but we’re equally focused on what comes next,” May-Dunn said. “We want to continue growing without losing the personal service, independence and expertise that have defined AEF for five decades.”

AEF’s plans for its next chapter include exploring opportunities for national expansion while maintaining its Arizona roots and continuing to modernize the escrow experience. The company is investing in technology that can improve efficiency, transaction visibility, document exchange and communication, while keeping personal relationships at the center of its service.

As AEF celebrates its golden anniversary, its direction remains true to the principles that have carried the company through its first 50 years: specialized expertise, personal attention and a commitment to getting the details right.

“Fifty years in business is more than a milestone; it is a reflection of the trust our customers, employees, partners, and communities have placed in us over five decades,” Anderson said. “We are incredibly proud of the legacy we have built together and grateful to the generations of people who have contributed to our success. As we celebrate where we’ve been, we remain focused on the future and the opportunities ahead. The best chapters of our story are still being written.”

About Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation

 Founded in 1976 by Donald E. Graham, Arizona Escrow & Financial Corporation is Arizona’s largest independent escrow provider, specializing in business sales, personal property, and commercial real estate transactions. Its customer base includes individuals, businesses, business and real estate brokers, law firms, commercial and SBA lenders, banks, major corporations, tribal communities, state and municipal government organizations and departments, internet entities, and other parties requiring an experienced and professional escrow company. Under the leadership of CEO Monica May-Dunn since 2023, Arizona Escrow & Financial remains committed to personalized service, instilling confidence in clients, and setting the standard for excellence in the escrow industry. For more information visit arizonaescrow.com.

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by Sep 15, 2026
Harvard Investments sells final 232 lots at Lucero Village at Estrella to home builder D.R. Horton

Harvard Investments sells final 232 lots at Lucero Village at Estrella to home builder D.R. Horton

News & Updates

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (Sept. 11, 2026) – Harvard Investments announced that D.R. Horton has acquired the final residential lots at Lucero, the newest village within Estrella, purchasing 232 homesites on approximately 90 acres.

The transaction completes residential lot sales in Lucero and marks another significant milestone in the continued growth of the award-winning master-planned community. The acquisition further strengthens D.R. Horton’s presence in the West Valley and reflects sustained demand for new housing opportunities in one of Arizona’s fastest-growing regions.

D.R. Horton officials anticipate opening model homes and offering homeownership opportunities in fall 2027. The neighborhoods will feature a variety of single-story and two-story homes with diverse floor plans ranging from approximately 1,300 to 2,400 square feet, designed to accommodate a wide range of homeowner needs and preferences. D.R. Horton has previously developed at the Village of Lucero.

“With the purchase of the final residential lots by D.R. Horton, we are seeing years of planning and investment come to fruition as Lucero attracts leading homebuilders and homebuyers seeking a place to call home and an exceptional lifestyle within Estrella,” said Roger Theis, Vice President of Harvard Communities.

The Village of Lucero is located near the entrance to Estrella and includes the Welcome Center and Café Bebida. Also within the village is Ladera Park, a neighborhood park featuring a playground, gathering spaces, restrooms, a splash pad, and shaded play area.

“The Estrella master-planned community, with its scenic desert backdrops, offers schools, shopping, recreation, and more,” said Taylor Mize, Vice President of City Operations – Phoenix West, with D.R. Horton. “And Lucero Village has access to it all. This makes Lucero at Estrella so appealing.  The location benefits are a unique aspect.”

Bret Rinehart, Ryan Semro, Ben Heglie, Greg Vogel, Wes Campbell, and Max Xander with the Phoenix office of Land Advisors Organization facilitated the deal on behalf of the seller and the buyer.

Home to more than 8,700 families, Estrella is a 20,000-acre mixed-use master-planned community located in Goodyear. Estrella’s 500-plus acres of open space include more than 50 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, plus 72 acres of lakes for kayaking, sailing, and catch-and-release fishing. The community includes resident community centers, fitness centers, a community yacht club and a public Championship golf course: The Golf Club at Estrella. Värde Partners, Toll Brothers, and Harvard Investments own Estrella in a joint venture.

About Harvard Investments  

Harvard Investments, Inc. is a real estate investment and development company with real estate holdings throughout the western United States. Harvard combines experience, integrity, and financial stability to create high-quality, environmentally sensitive, profitable communities including both large scale master planned communities and build-to-rent neighborhoods. Harvard’s Canadian parent, the Hill Companies, is a privately held diversified company involved in real estate development including construction and leasing of commercial office buildings and retail properties, oil and gas production and distribution, broadcasting, surety bonding, and insurance. The Hill Companies celebrated its 123rd year of continuous family ownership and operation in 2026. To learn more, visit harvardinvestments.com.

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by Sep 11, 2026
LevRose Commercial Real Estate announces promotion of Molly Garner to Marketing Manager

LevRose Commercial Real Estate announces promotion of Molly Garner to Marketing Manager

News & Updates

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Sept. 9, 2026) – LevRose Commercial Real Estate is proud to announce the promotion of Molly Garner to Marketing Manager, recognizing her contributions, leadership, and dedication to the firm’s continued growth and success.

Garner’s promotion from Marketing Coordinator marks a significant milestone in a journey that began nearly 4 years ago when she joined LevRose as an intern in January 2023. Following her graduation from Arizona State University’s Barrett, The Honors College and W. P. Carey School of Business in December 2024 with a BS in marketing, she transitioned into a full-time role and has since become an integral part of the company’s marketing operations.

In her expanded role, Garner will help lead the strategic direction of the firm’s marketing efforts. She oversees email marketing, social media, public relations, internal communications, campaign performance, brand consistency, vendor relationships and marketing platforms. She also manages and mentors the company’s marketing coordinators, supports brokers with listing and business development initiatives, and works closely with company leadership to advance LevRose’s business objectives.

“Molly’s growth within our organization has been remarkable,” said Victoria Weiner, Marketing Director at LevRose Commercial Real Estate. “Since joining the firm as an intern, she has consistently demonstrated initiative, creativity, and a strong commitment to excellence. Her ability to combine strategic thinking with strong execution has made a tremendous impact on our team and our clients. We are thrilled to see her step into the role of Marketing Manager and look forward to her continued leadership and success.”

Born and raised in Simi Valley, California, Garner has distinguished herself professionally while remaining committed to giving back to the community. Her volunteer work includes supporting Feed My Starving Children and participating in philanthropic initiatives through Alpha Chi Omega, whose mission focuses on domestic violence awareness.

During her time with the organization, she supported local shelters and after-school programs and served as a Panhellenic Delegate during the 2024 term. She also participates in LevRose’s community outreach efforts, including the annual Pasta Baskets and Adopt a Family holiday programs, which provide food and support for local families in need.

Outside of the office, Garner enjoys maintaining an active lifestyle through running, hiking, and weightlifting. She is passionate about travel, experiencing new cultures, and spending quality time with family and friends.

About LevRose Commercial Real Estate

Founded in 1992, LevRose Commercial Real Estate is a Scottsdale‑based firm providing full‑service commercial real estate solutions across Metro Phoenix. The company represents landlords, tenants, buyers, and sellers across all major product types, offering strategic guidance backed by in-depth market knowledge, comparative analyses, and a personalized, client-first approach. As the official Phoenix affiliate of TCN Worldwide, LevRose connects clients to a global network of independent commercial real estate firms serving more than 200 markets. LevRose brings more than three decades of experience, supported by a robust in‑house marketing team. Learn more at LevRose.com.

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by Sep 09, 2026
Ballet Under the Stars returns to Estrella’s picturesque Lakeside Amphitheater on Sept. 25

Ballet Under the Stars returns to Estrella’s picturesque Lakeside Amphitheater on Sept. 25

News & Updates

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (Sept. 9, 2026) – Ballet Arizona’s annual Ballet Under the Stars performance returns to the West Valley’s picturesque Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater, 10300 Estrella Parkway, on Friday, Sept. 25.

The performance begins at 7 p.m. and is free of charge to the public, with free parking clearly marked nearby. Guests may bring chairs, blankets, and picnics as they experience the beauty of dance. Ballet Arizona and Estrella invite all to delight in a spectacular evening showcasing excerpts from a range of ballets, offering a vibrant portrayal of the art form’s diversity.

Ballet Under the Stars, presented by the Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation, is the perfect show for the entire family and a great way to introduce ballet to young people for the first time. This year’s event will feature excerpts from both classical and contemporary ballets.

Audiences will get to experience excerpts from Concerto Six Twenty-Two, choreography by Lar Lubovitch; parts of Romeo & Juliet, Act 2, choreography by Ib Andersen; and excerpts from Don Quixote, Act 3, choreography by Marius Petipa, adaptation and additional choreography by Ballet Arizona Artistic Director Daniela Cardim.

Ballet Under the Stars also showcases performances by local school students through the Class Act program, provided to students tuition-free. Each year, Ballet Arizona’s professional dancers and teaching artists provide a three-week dance training class for students in four different elementary schools across the Valley. Students from Westar Elementary School in Estrella will perform this year.

“Ballet Under the Stars is a long-standing tradition and a special way we begin our season at Ballet Arizona,” Cardim said. “It’s an opportunity for people of all ages to experience live ballet in a relaxed, welcoming outdoor setting. There’s something extraordinary about seeing this art form under the stars, surrounded by your community. We’re proud to continue this tradition and invite audiences across the Valley to join us for these free performances.”

The day begins with a New Home Tour at Estrella from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., allowing visitors to discover the community’s diverse collection of homes and neighborhoods. The tour will feature more than 35 homes, including model homes and Quick Move-In opportunities from some of the nation’s most respected homebuilders.

Starting at Estrella’s Welcome Center, 8175 Hillside Drive in Goodyear, guests can pick up a tour map to view homes and neighborhoods of interest, as well as explore the community’s signature amenities, scenic mountain views, and vibrant outdoor spaces.

To learn more information about this year’s Ballet Under the Stars performances, please visit balletaz.org.

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About Estrella

Home to more than 8,700 families, Estrella is a 20,000-acre mixed-use master-planned community located in the City of Goodyear, approximately 17 miles west of Phoenix. Estrella’s 500-plus acres of open space include more than 50 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, plus 72 acres of lakes for kayaking, sailing, and catch-and-release fishing. Amenities include The Starpointe and Presidio Residents’ Clubs, the Yacht Club of Estrella, two fitness centers, resort- style swimming pools, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and tennis courts. Estrella is also home to a Nicklaus-designed championship golf course, The Golf Club of Estrella. Estrella is owned in a joint venture among Värde Partners, Toll Brothers, and Harvard Investments. For more information about Estrella, please visit estrella.com.

About Ballet Arizona

Since 1986, Ballet Arizona has been dedicated to preserving the tradition of classical ballet while advancing the art form through innovative performances and new works. Led artistically by internationally acclaimed choreographer Daniela Cardim, Ballet Arizona continues to inspire audiences with dynamic performances that honor ballet’s rich heritage while embracing the future of dance. During its 40th season, the company will present “Romeo & Juliet,” “The Nutcracker,” “Don Quixote,” “Pulse,” and “Desert Lines.” Under the executive leadership of Jami Kozemczak, the company has grown into one of the nation’s leading regional ballet companies and a premier cultural institution in the Southwest, recognized for its artistic excellence, financial strength, and community impact. The School of Ballet Arizona, under the direction of James Payne, provides exceptional dance education and helps extend the organization’s reach through free and low-cost community programs that serve more than 26,000 children and families each year. For more information, visit balletaz.org.

 

 

by Sep 09, 2026
LevRose CRE brings Smiling Moose Sandwich Grill to Scottsdale Crossing for its first Arizona location

LevRose CRE brings Smiling Moose Sandwich Grill to Scottsdale Crossing for its first Arizona location

News & Updates

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Sept. 8, 2026) – LevRose Commercial Real Estate is pleased to announce that Partner Sean Lieb and Senior Advisor Trevor White represented the landlord and the tenant in a retail lease for a popular, Colorado-based fast-casual restaurant at Scottsdale Crossing.

Smiling Moose Sandwich Grill leased 1,500 SF at 2865 N. Scottsdale Road, bringing its first Arizona location to one of Scottsdale’s most established grocery-anchored (Albertsons) retail centers at the SEC of Scottsdale and Thomas roads.

Behind the Arizona expansion is a local ownership group that includes former Arizona State University basketball star James Harden, Troy Payne, Nico Fricchione, Patrick Fricchione, Brian Padilla, Carlos Munoz, and George Gundrey. The restaurant officially opened its Scottsdale location on August 17.

The landlord at Scottsdale Crossing, a longtime client of LevRose Commercial Real Estate, has worked extensively with Lieb across seven shopping centers throughout Arizona.

“This concept and its operators showed diligent interest in the space, making it a perfect backfill for Subway given the variety of uses we support at this prime Scottsdale grocery-anchored center,” Lieb said. “The Smiling Moose team, backed by high-profile figures and a strong operating team, was a no-brainer. We had multiple offers on the space, and ownership was hands-on and great to work with throughout the process.”

Smiling Moose Sandwich Grill is known for its made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, burgers, and freshly baked cookies. Its signature sandwich, the Original Mo, features grilled meat, melted cheese, fresh vegetables and vinaigrette on a freshly baked baguette. The restaurant also offers dine-in service, online ordering, delivery and catering.

Scottsdale Crossing continues to attract strong retail and service users thanks to its high traffic counts, dense surrounding demographics and location just minutes from Old Town Scottsdale and the Entertainment District. Current tenants include Massage Envy, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Einstein’s Bagels, Jamba Juice, Smashburger, Smiling Moose Sandwich Grill, Albertsons, and GetFit.

“The addition of Smiling Moose further strengthens the tenant mix at Scottsdale Crossing and introduces a growing regional restaurant brand to the Arizona market,” Lieb added.

 About LevRose Commercial Real Estate

Founded in 1992, LevRose Commercial Real Estate is a Scottsdale‑based firm providing full‑service commercial real estate solutions across Metro Phoenix. The company represents landlords, tenants, buyers, and sellers across all major product types, offering strategic guidance backed by in-depth market knowledge, comparative analyses, and a personalized, client-first approach. As the official Phoenix affiliate of TCN Worldwide, LevRose connects clients to a global network of independent commercial real estate firms serving more than 200 markets. LevRose brings more than three decades of experience, supported by a robust in‑house marketing team. Learn more at LevRose.com.

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by Sep 08, 2026
Property management professionals lead way, inspire others through The Mazzon Foundation

Property management professionals lead way, inspire others through The Mazzon Foundation

News & Updates

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Sept. 2, 2026) – The Mazzon Foundation held its second scholarship award ceremony recently to celebrate its six newest Mazzon Scholars.

Scholarship winners included Henry Corado, Pauline Swai, Tena Soto, Pedro Cirne Calixto, Nichole Cline, and Grace Portale.

“They have put in the work, they have dedicated their time, they have a tremendous amount of talent and they deserve to be recognized. I will find great joy in watching each of them succeed in their careers,” said The Mazzon Foundation President Daniel Mazzon.

Since May 2026, The Mazzon Foundation has awarded $13,000 and 13 scholarships to property managers, building engineers, maintenance technicians, facilities managers and students to pursue professional designations, licenses, certifications and trade education.

These merit-based scholarships have been awarded to representatives of CBRE, Cushman & Wakefield, Greystar, ViaWest Group, Metro Commercial Properties, Hamilton Property Management, Equus Management Company, Colliers, Allthrive365, Arizona Commercial Management, German International School, and Grand Canyon University.

In addition, The Mazzon Foundation has helped local IREM and IFMA chapters grow their membership roster by paying for eight new members to pursue their designations within their organizations.

“The way for a property management professional to support The Mazzon Foundation is by calling on Mazzon Certified Partners, submitting an application, or sharing our mission with your property management company,” Mazzon said.

The Mazzon Foundation will host its final scholarship award ceremony in December to celebrate all the 2026 Mazzon Scholars.

The Mazzon Foundation is an Arizona-based nonprofit organization that exists to empower the next generation of commercial real estate and multifamily professionals. The Mazzon Foundation provides merit-based scholarships to property managers, building engineers, brokers, trade workers and students to pursue professional licenses, designations, certifications and trade education.

All blind applications are submitted to The Mazzon Foundation board to be reviewed and awarded.

For more information, visit www.themazzonfoundation.org, www.mazon.org, or email Mazzon at daniel@mazzon.org.

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by Sep 02, 2026