December 4, 2003

FOR A PRIVATE RESPITE, CELEBS SEEK OUT AZ HOTSPOTS
Sean L. McCarthy and Joseph A. Reaves, The Arizona Republic; staff reporter Larry Rodgers contributed to this article.
Money can't buy love, but it goes a long way to ensuring privacy for the rich and famous who come to hide away in Arizona.

The high-end resorts, spas and secluded enclaves of the Valley have long been famous for shielding the privileged who prefer to be pampered and protected.

That reputation has mushroomed as more celebrities find their privacy compromised in once-safe havens and come to trust security measures in Arizona.

Just this week, golf superstar Tiger Woods lashed out when an executive at a South African resort promised to protect his privacy during a four-day stay with friends but went back on his word by alerting the community.

Michael Jordan made his presence on consecutive nights at 6 lounge and created a stir among patrons. On the second night, when he and Charles Barkley stood above the crowd from the raised VIP platform, customers constantly tried, and failed, to get close to the retired NBA stars.The club's upscale image has attracted celebrities like Halle Berry, Cameron Diaz, Vince Vaughn, Vin Diesel and Aerosmith. Barkley, of late, has been a frequent visitor.

"Some people love to fit in with the general public, and others want that exclusivity," said Sonny Smith, 6's marketing director.

Have Northeast Valley nightlife news? E-mail sean.mccarthy@scottsdalerepublic.com or call (602) 444-6868.