GETTING TO KNOW YOUR 2024 CGA NOMINEES
BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Lisa Berry
The Chill Boutique
A business owner, entrepreneur, personal stylist, YouTube content creator, writer, dancer, and mom of three teenagers, Lisa Berry, owner of Chill Boutique, knows what it means to be busy! Her passion for spreading positivity, along with wonderful support team (family, friends and customers) inspire her to continue expanding her reach and writing new business plans that almost invariably come to fruition!
In 2020, Lisa and her family relocated from Indiana to Arizona, and immediately fell in love with the Fountain Hills community. Lisa opened Chill Boutique in 2022, and in 2023 was named Retailer of the Year by the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce. Her current roles include buyer, marketing director, personal stylist, and content creator for her YouTube channel, Zero Waste Closet. An advocate of minimalist packing and capsule wardrobes, she offers private styling appointments and suitcase-packing services to her clients, attracting an ever-expanding demographic of globe-trotting women. She also pours her passion into the Fountain Hills community by working with local organizations to provide education on such topics as “minimalist travel” and sustainable style, as well as host fashion shows and help coordinate fundraising events.
Lisa’s efforts to expand access to sustainable fashion have catalyzed a new era of growth. In January 2024, with the goal of reaching a greater number of people and providing even more accessible prices, Lisa opened a second location in Fountain Hills under the name Chill Out(let). In February, she launched a groundbreaking partnership with the well-known company, Brighton, to support her customers’ desire for access to timeless handbags and accessories. In the year ahead, she will work on opening new channels of communication to reach even larger audiences about the benefits of living and traveling with a compact wardrobe.
Karen DeGeorge
DeGeorge Partners, Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty
I embarked on my real estate journey in 2001, just a few years after settling in the charming town of Fountain Hills. Ever since discovering this wonderful community, my husband Steve and I have been actively involved in various aspects of its development. While Steve manages his own business outside of the real estate industry, I found myself irresistibly drawn to the world of property and design, ultimately leading me to pursue a career as a Realtor. Over the course of my 22 years in this town and industry, I have consistently strived to be a trailblazer and adept negotiator. My unwavering commitment to prioritizing my clients and conducting every sale with the utmost professionalism has been the cornerstone of my success.
The foundation of my business has been built on referrals, a testament to the positive experiences my past clients have had working with me. Throughout my 17-year tenure at Coldwell Banker, I consistently ranked as the company's top agent and received numerous accolades, including the esteemed Coldwell Banker Lifetime Hall of Fame recognition.
In 2018, I made the decision to join Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty, and I have been thoroughly impressed by the level of service and exposure I can now offer to my listings. Being a part of the Referral Network Team has further enhanced my ability to connect clients with their ideal properties. Additionally, I have developed a team of exceptional professionals who share my dedication to providing top-notch service and expertise in the real estate industry.
In 2024 and so far this year, I have sold more homes than any other Fountain Hills agent, a testament to my commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. In addition to my real estate endeavors, I am deeply committed to giving back to the community that has supported me throughout my career. I am a proud supporter and sponsor of various charities, including Phoenix Children's Hospital, Tunnel to Towers, Habitat for Humanity, Fountain Hills Dark Sky Festival, Smile Train, Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, and the Extended Hands Food Bank.
As a nominee for Fountain Hills Business Person of the Year, I am honored to be recognized for my contributions to both the business sector and the community at large.
Mike Jones
Discount Air Care
Mike Jones is the friendly face behind Discount Air Care in Fountain Hills, Arizona. Mike and his family have lived in the community for over 20 years, and Mike's dedication to quality service shines through. Known for his "kool" approach and attention to detail, he's committed to keeping homes and businesses comfortable all year round at a fair price.
Mike has a heart for service. As a military veteran, he has given back to the community he loves in countless ways by installing free units for those who could not afford them.
When he is not working long hours, Mike and Julie love to travel, walk their three rescued dogs, spend time with family and friends, and find ways to impact their community. This past holiday season, Discount Air Care was one of three Holiday Classic Sponsors for the Chamber of Commerce.
Mike is honored and humbled to have been nominated for Business Person of the Year!
Bart Shea
Shea Connelly Development
I was married to my Wife Cheryl in Fountain Hills in 1989 at Shepherd of the Hills in what is the now social building. I became a full-time resident in 1991 after my son was born because I believed then and now that Fountain Hills is the best place to raise children.
I firmly believe that the best way to keep it that is to continually invest in your hometown. To that end we will completion of the Downtown area I took the last 10 years to complete. Along the way I have met the best people in this little town we call home. What I love most is we can all have an opinion but that for the most part it is never personal.
I have quietly sponsored a lot of events and people in Fountain Hills, I vote with my whole heart and believe that this is the best little town in the world, just ask Jay Schlum. I sponsor to the Veterans and the Rotary the Art league and Golden Retriever Dark Sky and pretty much any local with a good cause, and they are all good causes.
NEW ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Lisa Berry
The Chill Boutique
A business owner, entrepreneur, personal stylist, YouTube content creator, writer, dancer, and mom of three teenagers, Lisa Berry, owner of Chill Boutique, knows what it means to be busy! Her passion for spreading positivity, along with wonderful support team (family, friends and customers) inspire her to continue expanding her reach and writing new business plans that almost invariably come to fruition!
In 2020, Lisa and her family relocated from Indiana to Arizona, and immediately fell in love with the Fountain Hills community. Lisa opened Chill Boutique in 2022, and in 2023 was named Retailer of the Year by the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce. Her current roles include buyer, marketing director, personal stylist, and content creator for her YouTube channel, Zero Waste Closet. An advocate of minimalist packing and capsule wardrobes, she offers private styling appointments and suitcase-packing services to her clients, attracting an ever-expanding demographic of globe-trotting women. She also pours her passion into the Fountain Hills community by working with local organizations to provide education on such topics as “minimalist travel” and sustainable style, as well as host fashion shows and help coordinate fundraising events.
Lisa’s efforts to expand access to sustainable fashion have catalyzed a new era of growth. In January 2024, with the goal of reaching a greater number of people and providing even more accessible prices, Lisa opened a second location in Fountain Hills under the name Chill Out(let). In February, she launched a groundbreaking partnership with the well-known company, Brighton, to support her customers’ desire for access to timeless handbags and accessories. In the year ahead, she will work on opening new channels of communication to reach even larger audiences about the benefits of living and traveling with a compact wardrobe.
Joanne Colella
Colella Communications
The owner of Colella Communications, Joanne takes great joy in sharing good news about local businesses and organizations to help them succeed! After 30+ years of visiting and loving Arizona, she and her husband Frank became full-time residents in 2021. Although new to the town, she brought with her decades of experience in advertising, freelance writing, and as editor-in-chief of five magazines before launching her own business. She’s a chamber ambassador, FH Sister Cities board member, Toastmaster, Sonoran Conservancy trail host, Women’s Club 50th anniversary celebration chair, and supporting member of many community organizations. She and Frank love exploring the region and visiting their children and grandchildren whenever possible!
Jon Davies
D4ward
I began this company a little over a year ago, because a friend of mine saw a need in the IT industry for sales and marketing people that were seasoned but at an affordable price. In addition, with my previous experience in the marketing world, I saw a direct need by our local businesses for a marketing professional that could help grow and scale their business so that they could stay busy year around.
Through the business in the IT sector, I have been able to charge far less to our local businesses so that they can spend their income on other needs for their business.
I am beyond proud of the services we provide and as we continue to help, donate, and build our local Fountain HIlls businesses, we can also help the community.
It is my deep and humble thank you for being nominated.
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Caleb & Casey Badder
Fountain Hills Physical Therapy
In 2023 Ken Greenstreet sold Fountain Hills Physical Therapy (FHPT) to two Fountain Hills products, brothers Caleb and Casey Badder.
Both of these young men attended school in Fountain Hills and received their Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St Augustine for Health Sciences in Austin, Texas.
Casey and Caleb see patients at FHPT and are active with the local high school in the athletics department as well as giving regular talks to the Sports Medicine classes.
Neveah & Obediah Carranza
Zero Reasons
Founded on January 22, 2023 in Fountain Hills, AZ, by siblings Nevaeh and Obediah, Zero Reasons stands out as the world’s only mental health awareness band, addressing critical topics like suicide prevention, anti-bullying, anti-abuse, physical health topics, and mental wellness through their eclectic indie music, all while promoting kindness.
Zero Reasons is aiming to change the world through music and their actions. Their goal is to utilize music as a tool for healing, from casual listening to structured music therapy practices. Partnering with practitioners and organizations, they aim to make their music a recognized & accessible resource for mental health care.
Cheryl Ferry
Bella Luna Loft
Hi! My name is Cheryl Ferry. I’ve had a business in town performing eyelash extensions for the last seven years.
I love our town and all of my
amazing clients who have all become close friends to me!
NONPROFIT OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Fearless Kitty Rescue
Fearless Kitty Rescue, founded in 2012, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill rescue that saves stray and abandoned kittens and cats, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment until they are adopted into loving homes. Our goal is to ensure that all cats receive a happy and healthy life, free from cruelty and neglect. We work towards this by placing kittens and cats in responsible homes through a comprehensive adoption process and community education. Our amazing team of dedicated volunteers strives to promote responsible pet ownership and the well-being of all cats, regardless of age, breed, or ease of placement. We believe in collaboration and work towards creating a better world for homeless pets. Our ultimate aim is to promote a future where all pets are treated with kindness and respect.
Fountain Hills Women's Club
Founded in January 1974, the Fountain Hills Women’s Club celebrates 50 years as a non-profit volunteer organization. The Club’s fascinating history is entwined with the history of the township itself, hosting some of the community’s first social events and fundraisers, helping establish accurate door-to-door mail delivery for residents, and much more.
The FHWC has generously supported the Fountain Hills Community Center, Library Association, Senior Center, River of Time Museum, Botanical Garden, Extended Hands Food Bank, Community Chorus, High School Band, Theatre, and many other efforts. It is dedicated to providing scholarships for women living or working in Fountain Hills to help continue their education and careers, plus two scholarships for graduating high school seniors.
Kiwanis Club of Fountain Hills (Noon)
COMING SOON!
River of Time Museum
The River of Time has been the keeper of the history of Fountain Hills, the Verdes and the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation since it was incorporated as a non-profit in 1991. Our mission is to engage, entertain, educate, and inspire people about the Lower Verde Valley, the river that runs through it, and the life that water brings to the desert. Through interactive and engaging exhibits and experiences visitors and residents are connected to this amazing area.
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Todd Harris
Throughout Todd’s career in Illinois as a commercial/industrial general contractor, he had always been heavily involved in the community. Hoping to do the same in Fountain Hills, he joined Four Peaks Rotary Club and volunteers at the Fountain Hills Unified School District. Todd has served as the Four Peaks Rotary club’s President, Vice President, Membership Chair, and for three years, the Golf Outing Chair (club’s largest fundraiser). Last April, he organized a community project with 150 volunteers to paint the Middle School classrooms. He spent over 850 hours painting in various buildings through November and now serves as a volunteer consultant overseeing FHUSD construction and maintenance operations.
Gina Waldo
I am the 4th child in a family of 10. Married to Bob since 1994 we have two sons, Ryan & Shane. Moved to AZ in 2005. Spent the first 16 years in Goldfield Ranch and now are happy to call Fountain Hills our home.
Working and volunteering are intertwined in all parts of my life. A few of my jobs include: cabi stylist; Lip Print Reader; Caregiver; Notary; Silk Hair Tinseler. Clubs/Volunteer/Member with: Past President of Friends in the Hills; The Daughters of the American Revolution, Corresponding Secretary; American Legion Auxiliary Member; Republican Women of the Hills, Leader; Precinct Committee Person. Past Member with: FHUSD, Fundraiser; Fountain Hills Little League, Board Member; Goldfield Ranch Fire District, Secretary; Goldfield Ranch HOA, Secretary.
I find great enjoyment being a servant to my community.
Geoff Yazzetta
Geoff moved to Fountain Hills in 2021 to pursue multiple business ventures with a lifelong friend.
A community builder at heart, he began looking for opportunities to contribute using the skillset he acquired in his previous career as district director for a Los Angeles City Councilmember.
In 2022, Geoff was appointed to the Town’s Strategic Planning Advisory Commission and was accepted into Leadership Academy Class 6, the following year he joined the boards of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center and the Fountain Hills Cultural & Civic Association. In his spare time, Geoff enjoys astronomy, CrossFit and visiting National Parks.
Gary Zauner
Coach Zauner was a very successful NFL and College Kicking Consultant prior to coaching Special Teams for 13 Years in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens and Arizona Cardinals. Coach Zauner has coached kicking specialist's for over 40 years in the NFL, college and high school.
Locally, Gary and his wife have donated a tremendous amount of time and financial contributions toward the new Falcon football field and the Fountain Hills Unified schools to better the lives of young people in Fountain Hills!
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Kryssie Beard
Fountain Hills Middle School
I am a 6th, 7th and 8th grade English teacher at Fountain Hills Middle School. I began my FHUSD career, after 12 years in Tucson, in 2020.
I am currently part of the new i21 Honors and Gifted program. I am a wife and mom of 4 grown children. I love to teach, enjoy time with family and friends, run, hike, and lift weights.
I am honored and humbled to be considered for this nomination.
Sam Brooks
McDowell Elementary School
Hey there! I'm Sam Brooks, a proud teacher at McDowell Mountain Elementary School. Having grown up in this community and graduated from FHHS in 2015, I have a deep-rooted love for giving back and educating the students in our town. It's my passion to inspire young minds and help them reach their full potential.
Every day, I strive to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where students can flourish. Being able to make a positive impact on the future leaders of our community is truly rewarding.
I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of our town's youth.
Dr. Cain Jagodzinski
Fountain Hills Unified School District
COMING SOON!
Mary McDonald
Fountain Hills Middle School
Mary McDonald is in her 9th year as an educator at Fountain Hills Middle School. She currently teaches Middle School Science in the new i21 (Innovate 21) Honors Program. She also coaches the FHMS Cross Country team.
She is married to Mike, and has a son, Matt, and two spoiled dogs. In her spare time she runs, reads and makes her own cold brew coffee.
CUSTOMER SERVICE OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Steffnie Beck
Fountain Hills Middle School
Ellie Mackay
Aesthetic Elegance and Wellness Medspa
Brenda McCarty
Mary Kay Cosmetics
Ursula Parington
Classy Jazzy, On The Ave, Zoe's Boudoir And Encore Apparel
My name is Steffnie Beck and I have lived in the beautiful town of Fountain Hills for 25 years. I will be celebrating my 30th Anniversary with my husband Ron this July. We have a very different loving, fun and crazy family life. Our two kids Ashley and Tyler and soon to be wife Stephanie add to the fun activities that we do together. We are always laughing and having a great time. We ate donuts while in a donut boat while doing donuts on the water for my Birthday!!
I have been with Fountain Hills Unified School District for 18 years. I started serving snow cones and now work as the receptionist for the District and Middle School. If you know me I like to have fun and be around people. Being in the position I am, I am very fortunate to be able to get to talk to people all day. The people around you build your character and make you smile and be thankful for what you have. I like to be involved so I have helped coach volleyball, started some fun clubs at school and help coach cross country, I have worked with the Kiwanis team at the art fairs and helped with the builders and K-kids clubs at school.
I enjoy working with the Town Park and Rec Department with Return to Recess and the Teen Trips. I always say that life is to short. Make sure you are the person who says " I will never do that again!" You never want to say "I wish I did that!" Keep your bucket list full!!!
Ellen, the owner/founder and Nurse injector of Aesthetic Elegance and Wellness in Fountain Hills, is originally from Seattle. Where she obtained her RN BSN from University of Washington.
Ellen has been working as an RN for over 22 years, and in the field of aesthetics for over 19 years. She has worked many years in Citical care in Neuro ICU, cardiac Cath Lab and most recently retired from Barrows Neurosurgery Gamma Knife. Ellie has trained in Scottsdale along with several plastic surgeon offices. She has trained with Allergan and Galderma for advanced injectable. Ellen has also trained on several occasions in Florida with Dr. Bauman, in Boca Raton for hair restoration. She has an advanced certificate from Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency as laser safety officer and Laser Aesthetics at clear skin institute. “I believe in continuing education to stay current and my love of education shows.
I moved to the wonderful town of Fountain Hills and love where I live, work, and play. I am a firm believer of supporting and giving back to the community. I love building long term relationships with my clients to help them obtain their goals, feel beautiful inside and out by achieving a more youthful , natural appearance and loving the skin they are in. I am a member of the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce. When not working at my clinic I enjoy my free time with family, grandkids, hiking, traveling, running, yoga and helping restore cars.
Brenda McCarty originally from Minnesota, now resides in Fountain Hills with her husband, Pat, of 38 years. Brenda has 2 daughters, Lauren, who lives in New York City and Sara who lives in Fountain Hills.
Brenda has been an independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay for 29 years. Mary Kay's mission is to enrich women's lives and elevate everyone through the go-give spirit. The company directly employs 5000 people and has over 3 million independent beauty consultants. Mary Kay has helped millions of women around the world start businesses and support their families.
This past year Brenda achieved the Queen's Court of Personal Sales and was recognized at the company's national seminar in Dallas Texas.
Born and raised in South Africa, I have worked the past 25 years in luxury brands and boutiques.
I have thrived at Classy-Jazzy, working for owners Hilda and Jim Bourdamis for the last 3 years, and getting to know the people in my community by wardrobing the beautiful women of Fountain Hills--making them feel their best by looking their personal best.
My mission in retail is inspired by a quote from Maya Angelou and this defines what customer service means to me:
"I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
FINANCE & INSURANCE PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Robin Brand
HomeGuard Home Warranty
Local Home Warranty Representative Robin Brand is a Seasoned Veteran of the Home Warranty Industry and has been a Resident of Fountain Hills for 33 years. The child of an Air Force Pilot and a School Teacher, Robin grew up in the Lake Placid, NY area and finished High School in Syracuse, NY. She has a Degree in Education with Minors in Business and Communication from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh.
Robin is committed to her Industry and is passionate about Customer Service for every client and those in need. Her hobbies include Classic Cars, Music, Singing, Dance, Comedy and Reading. She is a member of the Fountain Hills Auto Club, Four Peaks Rotary, Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce and various Valley Real Estate Associations.
Michael Pameditis
Edward Jones
We are a family business, deeply rooted in life and service within our amazing Fountain Hills Community. Edward Jones has been a fixture in our town for over 30 years, and we are extremely honored to be nominated for this award among these other great professionals.
As our clients know, we offer far more than just financial planning and professional investment management, and we approach each relationship as an extension of our growing family. Thank you in advance for your consideration of our business for this year's Finance & Insurance Professional of the Year!
Don Rice
AZ Insurance Guy
COMING SOON!
HEALTH SERVICES OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Dr. Elizabeth Diamond
Priority Hearing & Tinnitus
Skye Fitzkee
The Skye Studio
FountainView Village Team
Debbie Romano
Fountain Hills Healthy Heartbeats
Elizabeth grew up outside Chicago, Illinois in a service driven family. Surrounded by heath care providers, teachers, and volunteers she knew her career would need to be one where she could give back. As an audiologist she is able to help people hear and communicate with their loved ones.
Elizabeth has been working as an audiologist since she graduated from ASU in 2020 and has no plans of stopping her work, or leaving Fountain Hills any time soon.
Skye has been a dually licensed massage therapist/esthetician since 1982. Her passion for facilitating others on their quest for ultimate health and wellness has always been her passion.
Skye takes great pride in the fact that she is an eternal student of the healing arts and continues to hone her craft and up-level her skill set to consistently bring the very best to the table.
With a spa background that emphasized therapeutic modalities, Skye loves to create uniquely relaxing and restorative experiences for each of her clients.
Fountain View Village, an exceptional senior living rental community in Fountain Hills, recently celebrated a monumental $10 million transformation, setting a new standard for contemporary senior living. What makes us exceptional? The people who work at Fountain View Village and the residents we serve. Our community is managed by Life Care Services, the number one awarded senior living management company, and now boasts upgraded apartments and common areas, featuring modern designs and luxurious finishes. The revitalization includes a new outdoor recreational space with a gazebo, pickleball court, and putting green.
As the premier provider of Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care in Fountain Hills, Fountain View Village offers a continuum of care within a single, integrated campus.
The community's commitment to Life Enrichment Programs, community outreach initiatives, and providing a vibrant social environment reflects our dedication to fostering a holistic and engaging lifestyle for older adults. With a focus on wellness, diverse activities, and a pet-friendly atmosphere, Fountain View Village truly embodies a place where residents can socialize and experience limitless possibilities.
Debbie Romano is a passionate Nutrition & Wellness Consultant that champions Whole Food-Plant Based nutrition and clean eating. With certifications from American Fitness Professionals & Associates and Plant-Based Nutrition from the Campbell Center for Nutritional Studies at eCornell University, she diverged from mainstream dietary norms to forge a path in nutrition that focuses on personalized, holistic health strategies.
Debbie's approach, akin to a Nutrition "Personal Trainer," employs behavioral modification techniques to guide clients towards a life of vitality and well-being. Located on the Ave of the Fountains, she offers both in-person and online counseling, transforming their lives “One Bite At A Time”.
RETAILER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Misty Watkins
The Beauty Box Boutique
Misty is a visionary founder of a unique retail boutique has expanded her brand into Fountain Hills, Arizona. Beauty Box Boutique primarily serves fashion-forward women offering ready to wear fun clothing and accessories.
Misty sources her merchandise from her home town Los Angeles, California, and adds a fun Midwest vibe, having also raised her 3 sons in Minnesota.
Grapeables
Jo & Bill McKellips
Grapeables Fine Wines was opened in 2001. Bill and Jo McKellips are the 3rd owners and coming up on their 10th anniversary of owning the bar this July. After graduating Culinary school, their son, Sam joined the team and has been managing the bar for almost six years now.
Being a family-owned business, Grapeables focuses on small production wines from around the world. Many of the wines they offer are organic or sustainably grown by family-owned vineyards. Grapeables offers around 150 different wines to go or enjoy on the lovely patio overlooking the world-famous fountain. They offer by the glass options, live music, trivia, a wine club and so much more.
Sami Fine Jewelry
Stephenie Bjorkman
Sami Fine Jewelry is not just your average jewelry store—it's a 3700 square foot treasure trove packed with dazzling jewels from all corners of the globe. For over 38 years, this sparkly paradise has been THE place to go for top-notch designs, hand-picked gemstones, stunning diamonds, and custom-made bling.
Stephenie Bjorkman, is the dynamic CEO of Sami Fine Jewelry. Much like the exquisite American mined gemstones she cherishes, she embodies the essence of an Arizona gem. Starting out as a cowgirl with a passion for horses, Stephenie got roped into the family business in the 90's by her mom and store founder, Sami Jack. Together, they turned heads in the jewelry industry with their marketing prowess, earning Stephenie the dazzling title of "Queen of Marketing" and securing Sami Fine Jewelry as one of America's coolest jewelry stores (Instore Magazine).
Sami retired in 2013, and handed over the reins to Stephenie. With a knack for creativity and a love for surprises, Stephenie keeps the magic alive at Sami's. Stephenie upholds the tradition of captivating and delighting customers, ensuring her mom’s legacy continues to shine brightly. The Sami staff, full of jewelry enthusiasts, not only rocks the bling but also radiates love for the Fountain Hills community.
