Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine: Early Winter Issue 2023-24
At Rick Rome Creative we believe that the best ideas are the ones that come to life. That’s why we take a creative approach to everything we do, from brainstorming to execution. We work with our clients to understand their goals and then develop campaigns that are both effective and memorable.
Whether you’re looking to launch a new product, increase brand awareness, or generate leads, we can help. We offer a wide range of services, including:
• Creative strategy
• Branding
• Advertising
• SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
• Public Relations
• Digital marketing
• Content marketing
• Social media marketing
• UI / UX Responsive & Accessible Web Development
Welcome
Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine
Embracing Health, Culture, and The Community
Thriving in the Heart of Arizona
Greetings, dear readers! I’m Rick Rome, the Creative Director of Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine, and I’m excited to take you on a journey through our vibrant city and its surroundings. The Valley of the Sun has so much to offer, from stunning desert landscapes to a myriad of cultural and recreational activities. In this issue, we explore the best of Phoenix, focusing on living a healthy and active lifestyle while highlighting the noble work of Childhelp.
Embrace
the Outdoors:
As the sun graces us with its warm glow almost every day, Phoenix is an ideal place to cultivate an active lifestyle. Our city is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking the iconic Camelback Mountain, enjoying a leisurely bike ride along the canal, or finding your zen during a sunrise yoga session, there’s no shortage of ways to stay fit and savor the beautiful Arizona climate. In this issue, we’ve curated a list of must-visit trails that promise adventure for every fitness level.
Childhelp: A Beacon of Hope:
In our commitment to community welfare, we bring you the inspiring story of Childhelp. This organization is dedicated to providing support, healing, and hope to abused and neglected children. Their work has transformed the lives of countless youngsters, and we believe in shedding light on their noble cause. Discover how you can contribute to this remarkable initiative and make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Culinary Delights and Cultural Gems:
No visit to Phoenix is complete without exploring our thriving food scene. The Phoenix Region offers a delectable array of cuisine, from authentic Mexican street tacos to innovative farm-to-table fresh fare. We’ve taken the liberty of selecting a few of our favorite dining spots to satisfy your culinary cravings. And don’t forget to delve into the rich cultural landscape; we’ve got a list of the top cultural and arts venues on the calendar that you won’t want to miss.
Connect with the Community:
At Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine, we believe in fostering a great sense of unity and belonging in this beautiful desert oasis we call home. Our publication is your guide to the events, places, and stories that bring us all together. Whether you’re a lifelong Phoenician or a newcomer, we’re here to help you uncover the heart of this incredible region.
From healthy living as well as outdoor adventures to community connections and philanthropy, this issue is your key to embracing the vibrant and ever-evolving spirit of Phoenix. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we can’t wait to continue discovering the Phoenix region together. Stay tuned for more stories, tips, and inspiration in the issues to come.
Warmly,
Rick Rome
Rick Rome Creative Director Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine
Table of Contents
50-63
Bad Pup... GOOD PUP!
The Ultimate Puppy Training Guide. (Cover Story)
68-73
FLAGSTAFF - A Winter Park Oasis CLOSE ENOUGH FOR A DAY-TRIP.
When it comes to experiencing the enchanting beauty of winter, many think of far-off destinations like Aspen or Park City. However, if you’re in Phoenix and craving a winter wonderland, you might be surprised to discover Flagstaff, Arizona, as a hidden gem for a day-trip winter escape.
76-83
SOARING OVER ARIZONA
Hot air ballooning over Sedona, and information on upcoming local ballooning events.
18-23
CHILDHELP, Saving Children’s Lives Globally! One Heroic Rescue at a Time!
34-36
MAKE MONEY ON YOUR HOME! Navigating Evolving Arizona Short-Term Rental and Airbnb Regulations.
90-97
SAVORING WELLNESS! Low Carb & Vegan Delights for Healthy Living.
26-33
PHOENIX RISING: Unveiling the Evolution of the Property Market in the Valley of Opportunity.
118-123
PARK FIT! Total-Body Workouts with Suspension Straps at The Playground.
40-49
HEALTHY IN THE SONORAN Navigating Phoenix’s Extensive Wellness Terrain.
112-117
WORLD CLASS GOLF DESTINATIONS! Arizona Has So MANY TO CHOOSE FROM!
98-111
“SANTA’S LITTLE HELPER” Delving into the Joyful Chaos and Magic of the Christmas Season!
December Calendar
Dive into the vibrant spirit of December in the Phoenix region with our exclusive guide, illuminating the array of festive events and seasonal celebrations waiting to captivate you.
Phoenix is heating up this December, and we’re not just talking about the weather! The city’s abuzz with events that’ll make you feel as festive as a cactus wearing a Santa hat. From ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo, twinkling with enough lights to make Rudolph jealous, to the Glendale Glitters Festival, where the lights shine brighter than your uncle’s ugly holiday sweater—there’s no shortage of sparkly spectacles to keep you merry and bright. And let’s not forget the artsy side of December! Tempe’s Festival of the Arts is bringing together artists who can turn a canvas into a masterpiece faster than you can say ‘Jingle Bells.’ And for a touch of holiday magic, Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden will make you feel like you’re strolling through a winter wonderland lit by 8,000 luminarias. Trust us, you won’t want to miss a December in Phoenix that’s livelier than Santa’s workshop on Christmas Eve!
“DECEMBER IN ARIZONA SPARKLES WITH A UNIQUE DESERT MAGIC, WHERE HOLIDAY LIGHTS TWINKLE AMIDST SAGUAROS, AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES DANCE WITH THE FESTIVE SPIRIT. EMBRACE THE WARMTH OF THE SUN AND THE SEASON’S CHEER, FOR HERE, DECEMBER BRINGS A SPECIAL KIND OF SHIMMER TO THE DESERT SANDS.”
December 2023
All Month:
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo: (All Month)
A magical holiday experience with over 3 million twinkling lights, illuminated animal sculptures, and festive activities for all ages.
https://www.phoenixzoo.org/events/ZooLights/
Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer at Herberger Center Stage Theater: (Showtimes throughout December)
Follow Rudolph’s journey with Hermey the Elf and Yukon Cornelius encountering the Abominable Snowman and the land of Misfit Toys. Watch the TV classic come alive on stage with stunning effects and cherished tunes like “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Holly Jolly Christmas.” Sam The Snowman narrates while the North Pole, including Santa Claus and playful elves, mesmerizes. Childsplay’s magical production celebrates uniqueness.
Join a backstage tour after the December 9 or December 23, 4pm shows.
A Christmas Carol at The Hale Theater: (Showtimes throughout December)
Their spectacular and heartwarming rendition of Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption comes to life magically. This production brims with traditional carols, breathtaking costumes, and unforgettable characters, ensuring a season filled with joy and warmth for families. Celebrating its 21st year in Gilbert, this production promises to be an enriching experience for all.
Ballet Arizona: The Nutcracker (Showtimes throughout December)
In a grand return to Symphony Hall, Ballet Arizona presents a holiday classic. Experience the magic and delight of the season through Ib Andersen’s rendition of The Nutcracker, accompanied by The Phoenix Symphony’s masterful performance of Tchaikovsky’s cherished score. Join Clara on her wintry escapades as she confronts a number of mischievous mice and captivates the Sugar Plum Fairy. Whether it’s your debut or your 100th viewing of The Nutcracker, this heartening tradition never ceases to mesmerize, bringing smiles to all who attend!
Set amidst the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies’ Cactus League Spring Training home, this event captures the unique holiday spirit of the Sonoran Desert. Discover an immersive holiday experience featuring a dazzling light maze spread across 10 acres. Explore illuminated sculptures, a towering 100-foot Christmas tree, and skate through a twinkling forest. Don’t miss the charming artisan vendors and boutiques within tiny storefronts at Enchant!
Climb aboard your cosmic sleigh with your host Shiny the Star on a mystical holiday adventure that is out of this world at Cosmic Sleighride produced by World of Illumination. Shoot past the sun, race among the stars and pass through Kris Kringle’s celestial portal where toys prepare for launch. Orbit around a team of astro elves hoverboarding through the cosmos as you enter the stratosphere of Santa City, where all the holiday magic happens. Hold on to your seat — you’re in for one stellar ride.
Artlink’s First Fridays Art Walk in Downtown Phoenix
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Downtown Phoenix, Various Locations
Description: Stroll through the vibrant streets of Downtown Phoenix and discover a diverse array of art galleries, studios, and cultural institutions open late for First Fridays Art Walk. https://artlinkphx.org/
DECEMBER 1ST - 3RD
The Phoenix Symphony Presents Holiday Pops This dazzling performance is designed to infuse a festive spirit into your heart. With a selection of carols and hymns representing various traditions, the atmosphere will make your season merry and bright. Led by guest conductor Gerald Steichen, the Symphony, accompanied by the Phoenix Symphony Chorus, anticipates a very special appearance from a certain North Pole celebrity, promising an enchanting experience for all of the attendees!
Discovery Days at Taliesin West Presented by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Discover art, architecture, and nature during Taliesin West’s Discovery Days. Unearth the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s impact while freely exploring our grounds with performances, as well as a series of interactive activities, askme stations, and family crafts. Join us on the 9th of December and uncover what Taliesin West and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation offer. Limited tickets available for Discovery Days. Secure yours now at: https://franklloydwright.org/event/discovery-days/
Alice Cooper’s 21st Annual Christmas Pudding Presented by the Celebrity Theatre Christmas Pudding, a top Phoenix holiday event, brings together stars like Alice Cooper, Sammy Hagar, Nancy Wilson of Heart, Quiet Riot, and Sixwire for our 21st Annual Fundraiser, backing Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Centers in Phoenix & Mesa. Enjoy these exciting Solid Rock teen performances, including winners of the 2023 Proof is in the Pudding Music & Dance Competition, with the Bucket Brigade, Solid Rock Dance Company, and cheerful Christmas surprises. https://www.alicecoopersolidrock.com/event/ christmaspudding2023/
DECEMBER 11TH
Breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus
Saturday, Dec. 11 at 10 a.m.
Neiman Marcus is hosting a breakfast with Santa including photo opportunities and carolers. hosted at the Neiman Marcus in Scottsdale
4th Annual 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl
Saturday, Dec. 11 noon to 8 p.m.
Put on your best holiday sweater and buy tickets to enjoy festive libations at nine participating bars in Scottsdale. If you have a December birthday, you can also send a photo of your ID for proof to the event to get a free pass for you and five friends.
https://tinyurl.com/12BarCrawl
DECEMBER 15TH
Cirque Du Soleil ‘Twas The Night Before… at the Arizona Financial Theatre
Multiple shows from Friday, Dec. 15 to Sunday, Dec. 24. “’Twas the Night Before...” is an exciting twist on the cherished Christmas tale, brought to life in the unique style only Cirque du Soleil can provide. This joyful performance combines love, holiday spirit, exhilarating acrobatics, in addition to endearing characters.
SPOTTED: PHOENIX DECEMBER 2023 CAR SHOW at the Martin Auto Museum
Indulge in a day filled with gourmet food, refreshing drinks, and an exquisite display of top-tier vehicles from the Phoenix region, all showcased in our outdoor venue area. Explore the Martin Auto Museum, where more than 150 classic cars await your admiration. Don’t miss the chance to experience this automotive spectacle!
Wristbands for museum entry will be conveniently available for purchase at both entrances. https://linktr.ee/spottedphoenix
DECEMBER 22ND
Friday Night Films: White Christmas at Taliesen West
Presented by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Experience the nostalgia of classic cinema in a historic space at Taliesin West! Join us for screenings of old-Hollywood favorites in our Cabaret Theater, showcasing the significance of film at Taliesin West. This week’s feature is “White Christmas” (1954), a holiday classic capturing the tale of veterans aiding a retired general with a musical show at his New England inn. https://franklloydwright.org/event/friday-nightfilms-white-christmas/ ***
This event information provided in this calendar section of Discover The Phoenix Region magazine is sourced from various organizers, and while we work to achieve accuracy, details such as dates, times, and locations may be subject to change. We recommend verifying event specifics directly with the event organizers before making plans or attending.
Discover The Phoenix Region is not responsible for any modifications, cancellations, or inaccuracies related to the listed events.
Over the past decade, these coveted neighborhoods have witnessed remarkable growth, with property values skyrocketing. In Westlake Village, median home prices have soared by over 120%, while in Thousand Oaks, they’ve climbed by an impressive 70%. Calabasas and Malibu have also seen significant value appreciation, with median home prices increasing by over 100% and 80%, respectively.
Favorable Airbnb laws in these areas allow homeowners to rent out their properties for short periods, providing a lucrative income stream and the flexibility to enjoy their homes as they please.
January Calendar
Embrace the New Year’s exhilarating start in the Phoenix region with our comprehensive guide, spotlighting the array of captivating events set to ignite your enthusiasm and fill your days with excitement.
January in the greater Phoenix, where the weather’s as chill as the events! With sunny days averaging in the mid-70s and rainfall lighter than a raincloud’s conscience, it’s prime time for everything from Gospel beats to slam-dunk Suns action. Get ready to groove at the Southwest Gospel Music Festival, witness art battles that make a canvas go ‘Wow!’ and catch NBA showdowns hotter than the Arizona sun.
From harmonious hymns to hoop dreams, January’s heating up with events like the Southwest Gospel Music Festival and NBA face-offs featuring the Phoenix Suns. With art exhibitions, concerts, and sporting showdowns, Greater Phoenix is set to sizzle this January 2024. For more details on what’s happening, dive into the local chambers of commerce or tourism boards’ websites.
“JANUARY IN ARIZONA: WHERE THE SAGUAROS WEAR SWEATERS & THE TOURISTS WEAR SUNSCREEN! EMBRACE THE MONTH OF ‘HOT COCOA IN THE MORNING, MARGARITAS BY NOON’ AND EXPLORE THE DESERT BEAUTY WITHOUT MELTING AWAY!”
January 2023
JANUARY 1ST-7TH
Festival of Lights:
Stroll through illuminated gardens, marvel at handcrafted sculptures, and enjoy carolers at this enchanting Desert Botanical Garden event. (480) 991-1141
https://dbg.org/explore/events/
JANUARY 1ST-7TH
Cirque Musica: Holiday Lites:
Venue: OdySea Aquarium, 3930 S OdySea Blvd, Tempe, AZ 85286
Acrobatics, aerial artistry, and holiday cheer –prepare to be dazzled! (480) 624-2425
https://www.cirquemusica.com
JANUARY 1ST-14TH:
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo:
A magical holiday experience with over 3 million twinkling lights, illuminated animal sculptures, and festive activities for all ages.
https://www.phoenixzoo.org/events/ZooLights/
JANUARY 5TH
First Fridays Art Walk:
Venue: Various galleries and studios in downtown Phoenix
Explore the vibrant art scene with open galleries, live music, and artist meet-and-greets in downtown Phoenix.
Venue: TPC Scottsdale, 16602 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Tee off with the pros at this iconic PGA Tour event featuring world-class golf, live music, and celebrity sightings. (480) 563-8800
https://www.wm.com/us/en/inside-wm/phoenix-open
JANUARY 11TH
Scottsdale ArtWalk: Venue: Various locations in downtown Scottsdale Stroll through galleries, studios, and open spaces in downtown Scottsdale, enjoying art exhibits, live music, and artist meet-and-greets. Don’t miss the “Wearable Art” fashion show featuring unique creations! (480) 990-3120
https://scottsdalegalleries.com
JANUARY 12TH-13TH
Asian Festival: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Asian cultures with traditional dances, authentic cuisine, art, and community celebration. (480) 350-4198
https://asianfestivalaz.com/
JANUARY 13TH-28TH
Western World of Scottsdale: Venue: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Don your cowboy boots and mosey on down for a Wild West adventure with live music, can-can dancers, and saloons. (480) 990-1900
https://westernfreightways.com/index.aspx
JANUARY 15TH
Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon: Venue: Starts at Steele Indian School Park, 300 E Baseline Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85043 and finishes at Tempe Beach Park, 802 N Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Lace up and rock out along the scenic course with live music at every mile, costume contests, and a festive finish line party. (602) 273-1255
https://www.runrocknroll.com/arizona
JANUARY 16
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade: Venue: Starts at 3rd & Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85006 and finishes at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way & E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Celebrate equality and justice with a vibrant parade and community spirit! (602) 262-7401
Medieval Madness Renaissance Faire: Venue: Schnepf Farms, 6800 E Baseline Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Jousting, live music, turkey legs, and a time warp – this immersive faire has it all! (480) 899-9040
https://www.facebook.com/MedievalMayhemAz
FEBRUARY 17TH-18TH
World Championship Hoop Dance Contest: Venue: Heard Museum, 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Witness awe-inspiring artistry and athleticism as hoop dancers compete for the title. (480) 990-1900
https://heard.org/event/hoop/
JANUARY 20-22
Scottsdale Culinary Festival: Venue: Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, 3939 Civic Center Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Gourmet bites, renowned chefs, cooking demos, and local culinary gems – a foodie’s paradise! (480) 994-2255
https://scottsdaleculinaryfest.org
JANUARY 20-22
She Shreds Mountain Bike Festival: Venue: McDowell Mountain Ranch Park, 16405 N 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85086
Empowering women and girls in the world of mountain biking – clinics, demos, and a supportive community await!
(480) 271-5900
https://www.facebook.com/sheshredsyeg/
JANUARY 20TH-28TH
Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction: Venue: Scottsdale Stadium, 7408 E Osborn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Witness rare classics cross the block at this collector car extravaganza. (480) 421-6600
https://www.barrett-jackson.com/
JANUARY 21ST-22ND
Native Arts Festival:
Venue: Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W Roosevelt Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Discover the beauty and heritage of Native American cultures with dance performances, handcrafted art, and historical insights. (480) 464-2232
https://tempefestivalofthearts.com/
JANUARY 21ST-22ND
Tempe Festival of the Arts:
Venue: Tempe Beach Park, 802 N Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Immerse yourself in a vibrant marketplace with over 300 artists showcasing their works in various mediums – paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, and more. Live music and entertainment add to the festive atmosphere. (480) 968-2122
https://tempefestivalofthearts.com
JANUARY 27TH-28TH
PHX Wine & Food Festival:
Venue: Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, 3939 Civic Center Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Wine, culinary demos, music, and mountain views – a symphony of flavors awaits! (480) 428-8133
https://wineandfood.usatoday.com/phoenix/
JANUARY 27-28
Hot Air Balloon Festival:
Venue: Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S 42nd St, Goodyear, AZ 85338
Witness a sunrise spectacle of colorful balloons against the Sonoran Desert backdrop! (623) 866-2255
This event information provided in this calendar section of Discover The Phoenix Region magazine is sourced from various organizers, and while we work to achieve accuracy, details such as dates, times, and locations may be subject to change. We recommend verifying event specifics directly with the event organizers before making plans or attending.
Discover The Phoenix Region is not responsible for any modifications, cancellations, or inaccuracies related to the listed events.
In a world of fleeting moments, a photograph captures the essence of a lifetime.
JODIE WILSON Founder/Editor
As the Editor of Discover The Phoenix Region, Jodie Wilson brings a wealth of editorial experience and a keen eye for compelling stories, enriching the magazine with her dedication to showcasing the vibrant essence of Phoenix and its diverse cultural tapestry.
RICK ROME Creative Director
As the Creative Director at Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine, Rick Rome channels his passion for creativity and regional expertise to curate a compelling blend of local insights and global perspectives, enriching the magazine’s narrative with dynamic storytelling and engaging content. With a vision that celebrates the essence of Phoenix and its vibrant community, Rick leads the publication toward highlighting the region’s finest attractions, businesses, and lifestyle offerings.
THE DTPR TEAM
Jim Schwartz Entertainment Section Editor
Dawn Preator Pets Section Editor
Allison McKnight Sports & Fitness Section Editor
Paul Lamont Health & Wellness Section Editor
Discover the Phoenix Region Magazine Volume 14 Issue 1
For Advertising / Subscription inquiries; contact: info@discovertheregion.com or call Office: (480) 648-3438 website: www.discovertheregion.com
Contributions and Submissions
Diana Russell
Real Estate Section Editor
Staff Photographer
Materials must be accompanied by a self- addressed stamped envelope for correspondence purposes. Any submissions become property of Discover the Phoenix Region Magazine and credits will be properly provided of a submission is utilized.
Top 1% of Realtors® nationwide with an average of $50 million per year in real estate sales.
Owner/Partner, Aviara Real Estate
Geoff Reed
Photographer
Geoff Reed Photography
Lisa Alexander
HRIS
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chris Hansen
Social Media Manager
Jackie Taylor
Local Phoenician, Philanthropist, Socialite
Alex Ferri
Photographer
Jake Casteel Mixologist
Tatiana Katsai, Rick Rome, Geoff Reed, Jeff Shoket, Jodie Porumb Wilson, Alex Ferri, Jaime Staley
SPECIAL THANKS
Childhelp®, All of the pet care associates in the pages to follow, The City of Flagstaff, Lowell Observatory, Caring for Angels, Friends of Jack Jamesen, Chewy.com, Sur La Table, Hillary Metz, Coning Care, Venim Mensgear, Parkview Internal Medicine, Jeff & Irina Shoket, Ellen Croft, Light of Grace, To the team, our friends and family thank you for your support.
Explore the vibrant and diverse attractions in the Phoenix, Arizona region. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, nature lover, or art aficionado, there are things here for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a detailed list of venues as well as destinations, complete with contact information and web addresses, to help you make the most of your visit to the Valley of the Sun. Discover the perfect mix of entertainment, culture, and natural beauty that this very dynamic region has to offer.
SPORTS:
• 1
CARDINALS STADIUM: 1 Cardinals Drive
Glendale, AZ 85305 (602) 492-6300
https://www.statefarmstadium.com/ • 2
CHASE FIELD:
401 E Jefferson St Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 462-4255
https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/ballpark
• 3
U.S. AIRWAYS CENTER: 201 E Jefferson St Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 926-7645
ARIZONA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: 1901 N Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85004 (480) 946-0100
https://www.arizonamuseumofnaturalhistory.org
• 3
ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER: 600 E Washington St Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 716-2000
https://www.azscience.org
• 4
THE BEAD MUSEUM: 4222 N 7th St Phoenix, AZ 85014 (602) 274-1145
https://www.beadmuseum.com • 5
CAVE CREEK MUSEUM : 6140 E Cave Creek Rd Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (480) 488-2764
https://cavecreekmuseum.org • 6
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PHOENIX: 215 N 7th St Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 391-5191
• 7
DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy Phoenix, AZ 85008 (480) 941-1223 https://dbg.org • 8
HEARD MUSEUM: 2301 N Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 252-8840 https://heard.org • 9
MESA CONTEMPORARY ARTS: 1 E Main St Mesa, AZ 85201 (480) 644-2242
https://www.mesaartscenter.com/mcam
• 10
PHOENIX ART MUSEUM: 1625 N Central Ave Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 257-1880
https://phxart.org
Phoenix 411
Area Attractions & Venues
• 11
PHOENIX ZOO: 455 N Galvin Pkwy Phoenix, AZ 85008 (602) 286-3800
https://www.phoenixzoo.org
• 12
SCOTTSDALE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART: 7374 E 2nd St Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (480) 994-2787
https://smoca.org
• 13
TALIESIN WEST FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT: 12625 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd Scottsdale, AZ 85259 (480) 860-8810
https://franklloydwright.org/taliesin-west/
Child help: Saving Children’s Lives Globally!
ONE HEROIC RESCUE
by Rick Rome
Founded in 1959 by Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson, Childhelp has brought the light of hope and healing into the lives of more than 11 million children.
O’Meara and Fedderson were both tireless advocates for children. They were inspired to start Childhelp after seeing the number of mixed-race children living on the streets in Tokyo during a goodwill tour. They returned to the United States determined to help children in need, and they founded International Orphans, Inc., which would later become Childhelp.
Today, Childhelp provides a wide range of services to children and families who have been affected by abuse, neglect, and exploitation. These services include crisis intervention, as well as counseling, residential treatment, and prevention education. Childhelp also operates the National Child Abuse Hotline, which receives over 9 million calls each year.
Childhelp is a vital resource for children and families who have been affected by abuse and neglect. The organization provides compassionate care and support to help children heal and thrive. Childhelp is committed to creating a world where every child is safe and loved.
FOTO / Geoff Reed / In Memorium of Childhelp Founders: Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson / Photo taken in the fall of 2010
Childhelp has rescued and helped over 11 million children since its founding in 1959. This includes children who have been victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Childhelp provides a variety of services to help children heal and thrive, including crisis intervention, counseling, residential treatment, and prevention education..
Childhelp®:
Saving Children’s Lives Globally! One Heroic Rescue at a Time!
Childhelp is one of the leading national nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping abused, neglected, and at-risk children. For over 60 years, Childhelp has provided critical services to millions of children and their families through its comprehensive network of programs and services.
Childhelp’s global work focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating children who have been trafficked, exploited, or abused. Childhelp works closely with local partners in more than 30 countries in order to identify and rescue children in need.
Once children are rescued, Childhelp provides them with safe shelter, medical care, as well as psychosocial support. Childhelp also works to reintegrate children back into their families and communities whenever possible.
Childhelp’s work around the globe is made possible by the heroic efforts of its staff and volunteers. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to save the lives of children at risk.
Childhelp’s commitment to rescuing and helping children is evident in the organization’s mission statement: “To meet the needs of abused and neglected children and to provide prevention and treatment services.” Childhelp is a vital resource for children and families who have been affected by abuse and neglect. The organization provides compassionate care and support to help children heal and thrive.
Here is one story of a heroic rescue by Childhelp®:
Saving the Life of a Trafficked Child in India
A young girl that is named Priya was trafficked from her village in India to a city where she was forced to work as a prostitute. Priya was only 12 years old when she was trafficked, and she was subjected to horrific abuse.
When the time was right, a Childhelp partner organization in India raided the brothel where Priya was being held captive. Childhelp staff rescued Priya and other children from the brothel, and they took them to a safe shelter.
At the shelter, Priya received medical care as well as psychosocial support. Childhelp staff also worked to reunite Priya with her family.
Today, Priya is safe and sound with her family. She is attending school and looking forward to a bright future.
Childhelp’s global works are saving the lives of children like Priya every day. Thanks to the heroic efforts of Childhelp’s staff and volunteers, children at risk are finding hope and healing.
Here are a few other examples of children Childhelp® has rescued:
A 10-year-old girl named Sarah who was being sexually abused by her stepfather. The Childhelp counselors helped Sarah to report the abuse and get the help she needed to heal.
A 12 year old boy named Michael who was living on the streets after running away from home. Childhelp provided Michael with a safe place to stay, food, clothing, and counseling.
A 14-year-old girl named Emily who was being trafficked for sex. Childhelp helped Emily to escape her traffickers and get the support she needed to rebuild her life.
Childhelp was founded in 1959 by Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson. The two women met in 1958 on the set of the ABC situation comedy, The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet. They quickly became friends and bonded over their shared passion for helping children.
In 1959, O’Meara and Fedderson were invited on a government-sponsored goodwill tour to support the troops in Tokyo. While there, they were shocked to see the number of mixed-race children who were living on the streets, unable to get into orphanages because of their heritage. O’Meara and Fedderson decided to take action, and they founded International Orphans, Inc., which would later become Childhelp.
Over the next few decades, O’Meara and Fedderson grew Childhelp into one of the largest nonprofit child abuse prevention and treatment organizations in the nation. Childhelp now provides a wide range of services to children and families who have been affected by abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including crisis intervention, counseling, residential treatment, and prevention education.
O’Meara and Fedderson were both tireless advocates for children. They received numerous awards and honors for their work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. O’Meara passed away in 2011, and Fedderson passed away in 2019. However, their legacy continues to live on through Childhelp, the organization they founded over 60 years ago.
O’Meara and Fedderson were both visionaries who dedicated their lives to helping children. They were pioneers in the field of child abuse prevention and treatment, and their work has helped millions of children to heal and thrive.
Donate to Childhelp®:
A 16-year-old boy named David who was addicted to drugs. Childhelp provided David with a treatment program and helped him to get back on track.
These are just a few examples of the many children Childhelp has rescued from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
Childhelp® provides a variety of services to help children heal and thrive, including:
Childhelp National Child Abuse
Hotline: The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is a 24/7/365 crisis hotline that provides support to children and adults who have been affected by child abuse. The hotline also provides information and referrals to local resources
Childhelp USA: Childhelp USA is a network of residential treatment centers and community programs
that provide comprehensive services to abused and neglected children. Childhelp programs help children to heal from trauma, develop healthy relationships, and reach their full potential.
Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe:
Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe is a school-based child abuse prevention educational programs that teach children about their bodies, personal safety, and how to report abuse.
Childhelp is a vital resource for children as well as families who have been affected by abuse and neglect. The organization provides compassionate care and support in order to help children heal and thrive.
How You Can Help:
There are many ways that you can support Childhelp’s global work. Here are a few ideas:
Your donation will help to provide critical services to children at risk around the world.
Volunteer your time:
Childhelp relies on the support of volunteers to carry out its mission. You can volunteer your time at a local Childhelp office or online, the phone number is 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
Raise awareness:
Talk to your friends and family about Childhelp’s work and encourage them to support the organization.
Advocate for
children’s rights: Contact your elected officials and urge them to support policies and programs that protect children.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children at risk around the world.
Cover Featuring Childhelp
Founders: Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson
Respite
Adult Developmental Home
At Caring For Angels our Adult Developmental Home is a licensed family home environment designed for adults with special needs who require a supportive place to live when they cannot stay with their biological families. Our Adult Developmental Home offers a long-term, permanent residence for adults facing developmental challenges. As providers of our Adult Developmental Home, we prioritize offering gentle continuous positive emotional support and guidance to individuals with various developmental disabilities, such as cognitive/intellectual disability, autism, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy, among others..
Caring For Angels Respite service offers certified direct care workers who provide short-term care and supervision for children or adults with special needs in their home or community. Designed to supplement existing care and ensure a safe living environment, Respite aims to support and relieve caregivers, benefiting the individual in need. Whether planned or unplanned, Respite offers intervals of rest and relief to family members who reside with and provide ongoing care for their loved one.
Attendant Care
Hourly Habilitation
Hourly Habilitation, conducted by certified direct care workers, caters to individuals with special needs in their home or community settings. This service is specifically crafted to aid members in acquiring, maintaining, and enhancing self-help, socialization, and adaptive skills crucial for successful living within their home and community. Our comprehensive Habilitation services encompass specialized training in independent living skills, developmental skills, orientation and mobility training, sensorimotor development, and effective behavioral management. At the heart of our service is the commitment to empower individuals to thrive independently within their familiar surroundings communities.
Attendant Care, delivered by certified direct care workers, is tailored for children or adults with special needs in their home or community environment. This service is specifically designed to aid members in achieving and upholding safe, hygienic living conditions while maintaining personal cleanliness and daily living activities. Our Attendant Care program supports individuals to sustain their residence and engage in community activities. Task assignments are personalized based on the member’s Individual Support Plan, encompassing a range of responsibilities such as meal preparation and cleanup, eating assistance, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, mobility support, transfers, housekeeping, cleaning, laundry, shopping, and more. Our goal is to ensure a comfortable, supportive environment that promotes independence and active participation in daily life.
Phoenix A Real Estate Magnet Despite Shifting Tides
by Kevin Webber
Phoenix, Arizona, still shines bright on the real estate map, drawing in a spectrum of investors and homebuyers alike. While the market has shown hints of cooling in recent months, its dynamic nature persists, presenting unique opportunities for those willing to navigate its nuanced landscape.
Nestled amidst the captivating Sonoran Desert, The Phoenix region has long been a magnet for those seeking warm sunshine, a thriving economy, and a burgeoning cultural scene. This allure has translated directly into the real estate market, where the demand for properties continues to outpace the available supply, pushing prices upwards and creating an exciting environment for both seasoned investors and aspiring homeowners.
However, the recent months have ushered in a shift in the market’s dynamics. The relentless upward surge of prices has shown signs of moderation, offering a glimpse of a more balanced landscape. This slight cooling is not a sign of decline, but rather a natural adjustment in response to evolving economic factors and buyer preferences.
With this shift, a new set of opportunities arises. For buyers, the previously fierce competition is easing, and the power dynamic is now subtly shifting towards their favor. Sellers, while still experiencing strong demand, are now more open to negotiations and concessions. This creates a new window for buyers to secure their dream home at a more favorable price point.
Investors, as well, can find a haven in our evolving real estate market. The strong rental market, coupled with a steady increase in the population, translates into regular rental income and potential for capital appreciation. Additionally, the diversification of property types, ranging from single family homes to lucrative vacation rentals, allows investors to tailor their portfolio to their specific risk tolerance & investment goals.
Navigating the intricacies of the Phoenix real estate market requires a nuanced understanding of its trends, a keen eye for potential opportunities, as well as a strategic approach to decision-making. By embracing the dynamic nature of
this market and preparing for its ever evolving landscape, both buyers and investors can unlock the opportunities it offers, securing their place in this vibrant and ever-growing city.
MARKET
TRENDS IN THE PHOENIX PROPERTY MARKET: A DEEP DIVE
PRICE TRENDS:
Median home price increase: As mentioned, the median home price in Phoenix has steadily risen, reaching $440,000 in September 2023. This reflects a 2.3% year-over-year increase. However, the rate of increase has slowed down compared to the double-digit growth seen in previous years.
Price variations across greater Phoenix: The price growth varies considerably across different neighborhoods as well as property types. In desirable areas like Arcadia and Paradise Valley, prices have continued to climb, while the less expensive areas like South Phoenix have seen slower growth. Additionally, single-family homes have experienced higher price hikes compared to condos/townhouses.
Seasonal fluctuations: The Phoenix market historically experiences seasonal fluctuations, with prices typically peaking in the spring and summer months before dipping slightly in the fall and winter. This trend is expected to keep going for now, offering potential purchasing opportunities during the slower months.
INVENTORY LEVELS:
Limited inventory: While the inventory levels have shown some improvement compared to the peak of the market, they remain historically low. This is a major factor contributing to continued price growth, as demand continues to outweigh supply.
Days on market: The average number of days a property stays on the real estate market has increased slightly, indicating a shift towards a more balanced market.
While desirable properties may still sell quickly, sellers are generally facing slightly longer marketing periods.
New construction activity: While new construction activity remains strong, it has not been enough to keep up with demand. This is contributing to the ongoing inventory shortage, particularly for newly built homes.
MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES:
Rising rates: Mortgage interest rates have been rising steadily in 2023, thus impacting affordability for some buyers. As of October 2023, the average 30 year fixed rate mortgage in Phoenix is around 6.75%, compared to 3.25% a year ago.
Impact on affordability: Rising rates have reduced the amount borrowers can qualify for, making it more difficult for some buyers to afford their desired property. This is particularly challenging for first-time buyers and those with limited down payments.
Market stabilization: While rising rates are impacting affordability, they are also helping to stabilize the market by slowing down the pace of appreciation. This could ultimately benefit both buyers and sellers in the long run.
BUYER TRENDS:
Increased buyer leverage: As the market cools and inventory levels rise, buyers are gaining more negotiating power. Sellers are far more likely to make needed concessions, and buyers are facing less competition for desirable properties.
Shifting demographics: The Phoenix market continues to attract a diverse range of buyers, including professionals, retirees, and families. This influx of new residents is fueling demand and driving market growth.
Focus on affordability: With rising costs, affordability is a major concern for many buyers. This is leading to an increased demand for smaller homes, starter homes in less expensive areas, and alternative living arrangements like multigenerational housing as well as co-living spaces.
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
Strong rental market: The Phoenix area rental market remains robust, with high occupancy rates and rising rents. This presents an attractive opportunity for investors seeking steady rental income.
Long-term growth potential: Phoenix is experiencing strong economic growth and job creation, making it a desirable market for long-term investors.
Diverse investment options: Investors can choose from various property types, including single-family homes, condos, multifamily buildings, and even vacation rentals.
Overall, the Phoenix property market remains dynamic and offers a mix of challenges and opportunities for buyers and investors alike. By understanding the current trends & conducting thorough research, individuals can make the informed decisions in order to navigate this complex market successfully.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUYERS: SEIZING THE MOMENT IN THE PHOENIX MARKET
While the rising tide of the Phoenix real estate market has shown signs of receding, this shift presents a unique window of opportunity for buyers who are prepared to navigate its waters. In this evolving landscape, savvy buyers can capitalize on favorable conditions and secure their dream home at a more accessible price point.
Increased Buyer Leverage: The once dominant sellers’ market is gradually giving way to a more balanced environment. With slightly longer marketing times and an easing of competition, buyers find themselves holding more cards in the negotiation game. This translates into increased opportunities for:
Negotiating on price: Buyers are now in a better position to negotiate the sale price, potentially securing a discount off the listed amount.
Requesting concessions: Sellers are more open to concessions like repairs, closing cost assistance, and upgraded appliances, allowing buyers to further personalize their purchase.
Making contingencies: Buyers can now include more contingencies in their offers, such as inspection approvals and financing contingencies, offering greater protection throughout the purchase process.
WIDENING INVENTORY SELECTION:
The slowdown in the market has resulted in a gradual increase in available properties. This expanded inventory gives buyers a wider range of options to choose from, allowing them to:
Find properties in their desired neighborhoods: Previously tight inventory limited choices in specific areas. With more listings available, buyers can now target their preferred neighborhoods and communities.
Compare properties and find the best fit: The wider selection allows buyers to compare different properties and choose the one that best aligns with their needs, budget, and lifestyle preferences.
Find unique properties: As the market cools, sellers may be more open to offering unique properties that were previously off-limits due to intense competition.
GREATER AFFORDABILITY:
The moderation in price growth, coupled with the increased leverage for buyers, makes homeownership a more attainable dream for many. This improved affordability presents opportunities for:
First-time buyers: With slightly lower prices and more available options, first-time buyers who were previously priced out of the market can now find properties within their budget.
Growing families: Buyers seeking to upgrade their living space to accommodate a growing family can now find larger homes at a more manageable price point.
Investors: The potential for rental income is strong, making investment properties a viable option for buyers with a longer-term perspective.
STRATEGIC TIMING:
Understanding the cyclical nature of the real estate market is key for buyers. By recognizing the current cooling trend and acting strategically, buyers can:
Avoid the peak market: Timing their purchase during the current slowdown can help buyers avoid the peak prices and intense competition of the past.
Secure favorable mortgage rates: While interest rates are rising, they remain lower than historical averages. Locking in a rate during this period can provide long-term financial stability.
Position themselves for future appreciation: While the market may experience some short-term dips, the long-term outlook for growth in Phoenix remains positive. Buying during this period can position buyers to benefit from future appreciation in property values.
Seizing the opportunities presented by the Phoenix real estate market requires informed decision-making and a strong understanding of the current trends. By working with a knowledgeable realtor and staying up to date on market developments, buyers can navigate this dynamic landscape and secure their dream home at a price that fits their budget and lifestyle.
In the Phoenix real estate market, where challenges meet opportunities, informed navigation unlocks the path to success.
CHALLENGES FOR BUYERS: NAVIGATING THE MAZE OF THE PHOENIX MARKET
While the Phoenix real estate market presents a plethora of opportunities to astute buyers, navigating its deeper complexities also requires acknowledging and strategizing around several challenges. Understanding these hurdles is crucial for buyers to make informed decisions and approach the market with a realistic perspective.
Affordability:
Despite the slight easing in prices, the overall cost of housing in Phoenix remains significantly above the national average. This can pose a significant challenge for buyers, especially those:
With low down payments: The reliance on high-interest mortgages for larger loans can significantly increase your monthly payments, straining budgets and potentially making homeownership unattainable.
Facing rising living costs: Increasing cost of living in Phoenix, encompasses expenses like transportation, utilities, & groceries, can further restrict your disposable income and limit the affordability for potential buyers.
Competing with investors: Cash-rich investors often outbid traditional buyers, making it difficult for individuals to compete for desirable properties, particularly in high-demand neighborhoods.
LIMITED INVENTORY:
While the inventory situation has only improved slightly, the overall availability of properties, especially in the desirable areas & specific price ranges, remains limited. This scarcity can lead to:
Bidding wars: Multiple buyers that are competing for the same property can drive up the final sale price beyond the asking amount, making it difficult for buyers to stay within their budget.
Compromises on location or features: The limited options may force buyers to settle for properties in less desirable
locations or that come with fewer of the desired features to secure a home.
Stress and frustration: The search for a suitable property in a limited inventory market can be a stressful and frustrating experience, potentially leading to rushed decisions and buyer fatigue.
RISING MORTGAGE RATES:
The recent increase in interest rates can significantly impact affordability for potential buyers. This translates to:
Higher monthly payments: Increased interest rates lead to larger monthly mortgage payments, putting a strain on the buyer’s budget and potentially making it difficult to qualify for a loan.
Reduced borrowing power: The rising rates proportionally reduce the amount buyers can qualify for, thus limiting their options and potentially forcing them to look for lower-priced properties.
Uncertainty about future rates: The unpredictable nature of interest rate fluctuations can create uncertainty for buyers, making it difficult to plan and budget for their future financial obligations.
SHIFTING MARKET DYNAMICS:
The Phoenix real estate market is always evolving, presenting challenges for buyers who need to:
Stay informed about market trends: Keeping up with the latest trends and fluctuations in the market is crucial for making informed decisions about buying a property.
Adapt their strategies: As the market changes, buyers need to adjust their strategies, including timing their home purchase, negotiating offers, and managing their expectations
Seek professional guidance: Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent who understands the nuances of the local market can be invaluable when you are navigating its complexities and making strategic decisions.
In the dynamic Phoenix real estate market, opportunity awaits those who understand its shifting tides and navigate its complexities with strategic vision.
Overcoming these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Buyers can navigate the maze that is the Phoenix market by:
Setting realistic expectations: Just understanding the current market dynamics and acknowledging the potential hurdles is a crucial step for managing expectations and making informed decisions.
Developing a comprehensive budget: Planning for all of your house-related expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance, helps buyers stay within their financial limits.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS:
Government and private programs may offer assistance with down payments, closing costs, and even mortgage rates, making homeownership more accessible.
Building a strong credit score helps qualify buyers for lower interest rates, increasing their borrowing power and affordability.
Staying flexible and patient: The search for a suitable property may take time and require flexibility in terms of location, features, and budget.
By understanding the challenges and implementing strategic approaches, buyers can navigate the complexities of the Phoenix market and secure their dream home, all within a stable and sustainable financial framework. Remember, patience, in addition to an informed decision-making, & a proactive approach are the key to unlocking the opportunities that abound in our real estate landscape.
NAVIGATING THE PHOENIX REAL ESTATE MARKET: ESSENTIAL ADVICE FOR SUCCESS
The Phoenix real estate market, while brimming with opportunity, also presents an intricate maze of considerations for both seasoned and novice buyers and investors. To navigate this landscape effectively, one must equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and then implement informed strategies.
1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage:
Securing a pre-approval demonstrates your financial readiness and strengthens your offer.
Allows for a smoother and faster closing process, giving you an edge in competitive situations.
Provides clarity on your budget and purchasing power, guiding your search for suitable properties.
2. Partner with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent:
Local expertise and market knowledge & understanding are invaluable assets for navigating complex dynamics and securing the best deal.
An experienced agent can provide personalized guidance, negotiate on your behalf, and advocate for your interests.
Access to exclusive listings & insights into upcoming opportunities can give you a significant advantage.
3.
Research and Be Informed:
Stay updated on current market trends, including price fluctuations, inventory levels, and interest rate movements.
Familiarize yourself with different neighborhoods and their unique characteristics to identify suitable locations.
Understand legal and financial aspects of the buying process to avoid pitfalls and make informed decisions.
4. Develop a Clear Budget and Stick to It:
Calculate not just the mortgage payment but also potential closing costs, maintenance expenses, and property taxes.
Avoid overextending your finances to ensure future stability and peace of mind.
Be prepared to negotiate repairs or concessions from sellers to stay within your budget.
5. Be Patient and Flexible:
Finding the perfect property may take time, so remain patient and avoid rushing into decisions.
Be flexible with your expectations regarding location, features, and timeline to maximize your options.
Don’t be discouraged by any initial setbacks, learn from them & adjust your strategy as needed.
By adhering to these essential pieces of advice, you can approach the Phoenix market with confidence and navigate its complexities effectively. Remember, patience, strategic planning, as well as a collaborative approach will be your allies on your journey to securing your dream property.
6. Consider Alternative Options:
Explore diverse options like co buying or rent-to-own programs to increase affordability.
Research new developments and pre-construction opportunities for potentially better deals.
Consider expanding your property search beyond the core of the city to explore the rapidly developing suburbs.
7. Leverage Technology:
Utilize online resources and mobile apps to access property listings, track market trends, and connect with agents.
Sign up for virtual tours and property alerts to stay informed about new listings and opportunities.
Utilize online mortgage calculators & financial tools to manage your budget and make informed decisions.
8. Don’t Go It Alone:
Seek advice from trusted friends, family members, or financial advisors for valuable insights and support. Join online forums and communities to connect with fellow homebuyers and share experiences. Remember, knowledge is power. The more informed and prepared you are, the more likely you are to navigate the Phoenix market successfully and achieve your real estate goals.
LOOKING AHEAD: UNVEILING THE FUTURE OF THE PHOENIX REAL ESTATE MARKET
The Phoenix real estate market, while currently experiencing a mild cooling period, continues to exhibit strong long-term potential. Understanding the forces shaping its future is crucial for both buyers and investors who want to make informed decisions.
1. Projected Growth:
Population influx: Phoenix remains a magnet for young professionals, retirees, and families, which is fueling population growth and increasing housing demand.
Economic expansion: The region’s booming economy, driven by diverse industries like technology, military healthcare, and tourism, is expected to continue, supporting job creation and income growth.
Limited land availability: The unique desert landscape restricts the levels of availability for development land, contributing to long term price and equity appreciation over the long term.
2. Market Stabilization:
Moderating price growth: While prices are expected to continue rising, the pace of appreciation is likely to slow down, thus creating a more balanced market.
Increased inventory: New construction projects & potential long term market adjustments could lead to a gradual increase in available properties, which benefits buyers.
Shifting buyer preferences: The rising generation of buyers may prioritize affordability as well as flexibility over traditional single-family homes, driving demand up for alternative housing options like co-living spaces & multigenerational homes.
3. Technological Innovations:
Virtual reality tours: Technology will continue to play a key role in the market, with virtual reality tours and online platforms facilitating property search and reducing the need for physical visits.
PropTech tools: PropTech tools for real estate management, financing, and investing will become increasingly sophisticated, thus enhancing market efficiency and transparency.
Data-driven insights: Data analysis will be crucial for informed decision making, allowing buyers and investors to identify trends, predict future market movements, and make strategic choices.
4. Sustainability Concerns:
Environmental considerations: Water scarcity and heat waves are among key concerns that will influence development and housing choices. Sustainable building practices and energy-efficient homes will likely be increasingly sought after.
Urban planning: Smart city initiatives and investments in green spaces will enhance quality of life in addition to attracting future residents.
Affordable housing: Addressing the need for affordable housing will be crucial for ensuring sustainability and social equity in the city’s growth.
5. Investment Opportunities:
Rental market: The robust rental market presents what appears to be a lucrative opportunity for investors, with very high occupancy rates as well as consistent income potential.
Vacation rentals: Phoenix’s vibrant tourism industry creates a strong demand for vacation rentals, which offers investors attractive returns.
Long-term appreciation: Despite short term fluctuations, the long-term potential for property value appreciation in Phoenix remains significant, attracting investors seeking stable returns.
The future of the Phoenix real estate market is painted with a vibrant brush of opportunity. Understanding the projected growth, market stabilization, technological advancements, and sustainability concerns will equip buyers and investors with the knowledge needed to navigate the evolving landscape and secure their place in this thriving city. By embracing strategic planning, informed decision-making, in addition to a proactive approach, individuals can unlock the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in the Phoenix real estate market.
Making Money on Your Home Navigating Evolving Arizona Short-Term
Rental and Airbnb Regulations
By Rick Rome
Arizona is a very popular tourist destination,andshort-termrentals, such as with Airbnb, have become a popular way for homeowners to makemoneyoffoftheirproperties. It’simportanttokeepinmind,that Arizona has recently enacted new regulations on short-term rentals, anditisimportantforhomeowners to be aware of these regulations beforerentingouttheirproperties.
Arizona Regulations
Arizona’s Short-Term Rental Act (SB1168) a group of short-term rental regulations went into effect in 2022. The regulations require short-term rental owners to be licensed by their municipality and to have at least $500,000 worth of liability insurance. The regulations also prohibit short-term rentals from being used as party houses.
Licensing
To obtain a short-term rental license in Arizona, homeowners must submit an application to their municipality, pay a fee, and provide proof of insurance. The specific requirements for licensing vary from municipality to municipality, so it is important to check the website of your city or town for more information.
Insurance
Short-term rental owners in Arizona are required to have at least $500,000 worth of liability insurance. This insurance policy should protect the homeowner in the event that a guest is injured or property is damaged during their stay.
Party Houses
The new Arizona short-term rental regulations prohibit short-term rentals from being used as party houses. A party house is typically defined as a short-term rental where there is excessive noise, traffic, or other disruptive activity.
Homeowners can avoid having their shortterm rental used as a party house by having a clear policy against parties in their rental agreement, requiring guests to provide a valid ID and contact information, and having a designated person who is available to respond to noise complaints.
Other Considerations
In addition to the licensing, insurance, and party house requirements, there are a few other things that short-term rental owners in Arizona should be aware of.
First, short-term rental owners are required to pay taxes on the income that they generate from their rentals. The specific tax rate varies depending on the municipality, but it is typically around 10%.
Second, short-term rental owners should be aware of the noise ordinances in their municipality. Many municipalities have ordinances that prohibit excessive noise, especially at night. Homeowners can avoid violating noise ordinances by having a quiet time policy in their rental agreement and by requiring guests to be respectful of their neighbors.
Finally, short-term rental owners should make sure that their rental properties are safe and well-maintained. This includes things like having working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as having adequate lighting and safety features around the property.
These Arizona short-term rental regulations are designed to protect homeowners and guests. By following the licensing, insurance, party house, and other requirements, shortterm rental owners can ensure that their businesses are successful and that their guests have a positive experience.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips for short-term rental owners in Arizona:
• Be proactive. Stay up-to-date on the latest changes to the regulations and make sure that you are in compliance.
• Be professional. Manage your business in a professional manner and provide your guests with excellent customer service.
• Be a good neighbor. Be respectful of your neighbors and be responsive to any concerns they may have.
Navigating the Evolving Regulations
The short-term rental regulations in Arizona are still evolving, and it is important for homeowners to stay up-to-date on the latest changes. Homeowners can do this by checking the websites of their municipalities and by joining short-term rental associations.
How to Make Money on Your Short-Term Rental
There are a number of things that homeowners can do to make money on their short-term rentals. Here are a few tips:
• Price your rental competitively.
• Make sure that your rental is clean and well-maintained.
• Offer amenities that guests appreciate, such as Wi-Fi, cable TV, and laundry facilities.
• Be responsive to guest inquiries and requests.
• Market your rental on popular shortterm rental websites.
The new Arizona short-term rental regulations that went into effect in 2022 are called the Arizona Short-Term Rental Act (SB1168). The act requires short-term rental owners to be licensed by their municipality and to have at least $500,000 worth of liability insurance. The act also prohibits short-term rentals from being used as party houses. The act is also designed to protect consumers by ensuring that short-term rentals are safe and well-maintained.
Safety Guidelines
In addition to the tips above, homeowners should also follow these safety guidelines when renting out their properties:
Be aware of the potential for scams and fraud. There are many scams that target short-term rental owners, so it is important to be careful.
Screen your guests carefully. You can do this by requiring guests to provide a valid ID and contact information, and by checking their reviews on other short-term rental platforms.
Have a clear and concise rental agreement in place. The rental agreement should outline your expectations for guests, as well as the consequences for violating those expectations.
Be prepared to deal with emergencies. Have a plan in place for dealing with things like fires, floods, and medical emergencies.
Short-term rentals can be a great way for homeowners to make money off of their properties. However, it is important to be aware of the regulations in your municipality and to follow safety guidelines when renting out your property. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of success in the short-term rental market.
If you receive noise complaints from neighbors, you should take immediate action to address the problem. This may involve contacting the guests and asking them to quiet down, or it may involve evicting the guests if they refuse to comply.
Be proactive. Don’t wait for the regulations to change before you take action. Instead, be proactive and learn about the latest trends and developments in the short-term rental industry.
There are a number of ways to stay proactive about the short-term rental regulations. You can read short-term rental industry news and publications, attend short-term rental industry events and conferences, network with other short-term rental owners.
HELP DTPR
DISCOVER THE PHOENIX REGION LIFESTYLE • WELL BEING • HAPPENINGS
Your support is our lifeline! Please consider sharing our magazine with your friends and family via email or social media.
If you are viewing the online version you can share directly from here using this icon which is located above the publication flipbook
If you are viewing a printed copy, scan the QR code displayed to be taken to our magazine’s online bookshelf & share from the menu icon at the top.
It’s your ongoing sharing that fuels our ability to keep delivering the latest in haute living experiences for Phoenicians.
Together, let’s keep our community thriving with the best of what life has to offer.
You can also share a direct link to us at https://discovertheregion.com
Relocation Guide
Get estimates from several moving or truck rental companies.
Inquire about the amount of insurance coverage the moving company provides.
Plan your travel itinerary and make lodging reservations in advance.
Obtain records from doctors (including dental x-rays, eyeglass prescriptions and vaccinations). Request children’s school records and pet records.
Pay existing bills and close out local charge accounts.
Transfer insurance policies or arrange new ones.
Ask for professional referrals (doctor, insurance, and accountant).
Decide what will be moved, sold, given away.
Have a garage sale.
Cancel newspaper and utilities services.
Give change of address notice to post office, charge accounts, magazine subscriptions, relatives, friends, organizations, church, catalogs, past employer (for W-2 form).
Make arrangements for transporting plants and pets.
Pack special or irreplaceable items yourself and label.
Draw up a floor plan of where furniture should be placed in new residence.
Service car before trip. Have cash on hand for emergencies.
Secure telephone directory and a city map. Arrange for services at new home (utilities, newspaper, mail).
Transfer auto titles, plates and drivers license. Check school schedules and student enrollment requirements.
Notify the post office that you are moving. An online Change of Address form is available on the United States Postal Service Web site. Prepare a list of friends, relatives, business firms and others who should be notified of your move.
Supplier for electric is based on the city you are moving to.
•
APS Arizona Public Service 602.371.7171
Services Avondale, Buckeye, Carefree/Cave Creek, Chandler, Gilbert, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Peoria, Sun City West, Tempe, Glendale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Sun City.
SRP Salt River Project 602.236.8888
Mesa electric is supplied by the City of Mesa 480.644.2221
RECYCLING
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality maintains a recycle hot line. To find out why recycling is important, what can be recycled and where, also pick up conservation tips. Call 480.782.3430.
CABLE
Cable America 480.461.0715
Cable Plus 602.956.7040
Cox Communications 602.277.1000
Sun Lakes Cable 480.895.8084
Wander Cable 800.626.0297
OTHER NUMBERS
Poison Control 602.253.3334 or 1.800.362.0101
Crime Stop Phoenix Police Department 602.262.6151
Suicide Prevention Center Hotline 480.784.1500
Arizona Highway Patrol 602.223.2000
VOTER REGISTRATION
You must be at least 18 years of age or older, a citizen of the United States and a resident of Arizona. To vote in local and national elections, you must register 29 days prior to the election.
Registration can be done at a number of locations:
The Maricopa County Department of elections 602.506.1511
League of Women Voters 602.997.5218
Political Party Offices
All City Clerk offices
Drivers License (MVD)
Special mail in forms at all locations above and can also be found at any Post Office and some local Libraries.
Phoenix, Arizona, a vibrant urban oasis embedded in the expansive Sonoran Desert landscape, radiates vibrance and challenges when it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In this sun-drenched arid landscape, survival and thriving are intertwined with essential practices that ensure not just longevity but a robust, active existence.
Hydration:
Your Oasis in the Desert
In the arid climate of Phoenix, where temperatures can surge to scorching heights, the importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated. While the standard advice of eight glasses of water a day is a fundamental principle, the desert demands more. It’s a continuous battle against dehydration; hence, quenching your body’s thirst with additional fluids becomes pivotal. Incorporating hydrating fruits and vegetables into your diet—indulging in succulent watermelon, crisp cucumbers, or leafy spinach— serves as an added defense against dehydration’s stealthy advances.
Sun Protection:
Shielding Against Nature
Phoenix’s relentless sunshine creates an ongoing battle against its potent UV rays. Slathering on sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher isn’t merely a ritual; it’s an armor against the desert sun’s unwavering assault. Employing the duo of stylish sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a strategic defense to protect your eyes and face from the radiant onslaught.
Nutrition: Fortifying in the Desert
Navigating nutritional choices amid the desert’s allure presents a unique challenge. Sustaining oneself in the scorching heat demands not just food but nutrient-rich sustenance. Fruits, as well as vegetables, & whole grains emerge as beacons of nourishment—infusing your body with vital nutrients while battling the relentless heat. In a world tempting you with processed indulgences and sugary elixirs, opt for the oasis of fresh produce and steer clear of these mirages in the desert.
Exercise: Cultivating Your Health Oasis
In a landscape where the sun seems to be an omnipresent force, dedicating time to move your body becomes crucial. The desert doesn’t serve as a deterrent; it’s an open canvas for invigorating activities. Delve into the refreshing embrace of a pool, explore the stunning trail networks on hikes, or pedal through the cityscape on a bike ride. It only takes about 30 minutes of activity most days to rejuvenate both your body and mind amidst the desert’s allure.
Slumber:
Replenishing in the Heat’s Embrace
Sleep in the desert isn’t just a necessity; it’s a rejuvenating oasis amid the warmth. Aim for the recommended 7-8 hours each night, establishing a bedtime ritual that cocoons you in a relaxing ambiance. Without it, your energy reserves might evaporate much faster than water in the relentless desert sun.
Stress Management:
Taming the Desert’s Challenges
Stress, much like a wandering tumbleweed, can disrupt the tranquility of the desert. Combat its effects with relaxation techniques—immerse yourself in the soothing art of yoga, the meditative practice of mindfulness, or the therapeutic touch of a nature stroll. Let calming music & rejuvenating massages be your haven in the midst of the desert’s bustling pace.
Living Healthy in the Sonoran Desert . . . Navigating Phoenix’s Wellness Terrain
By Paul Lamont
Flourishing in Phoenix’s Healthy Vibrancy Thriving in the desert isn’t just about survival; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that syncs with the rhythm of this vibrant city. By adopting these practices, you not only survive but thrive in the arid embrace of Phoenix’s sunny vitality.
Bonus Tips to
Embrace the Desert’s Health Secret:
Unearth the hidden gems of fresh, local produce at vibrant farmers’ markets.
Embrace the power of community and motivation by joining fitness groups or classes.
Arm yourself with healthy snacks to conquer cravings and stay on track.
Schedule regular check-ups to navigate potential health concerns with foresight.
Seek solace and guidance from support groups or professionals in managing and alleviating stress.
IN
THIS, OUR DESERT SANCTUARY, RESPECT FOR
ITS
AN AMALGAMATION
RHYTHM AND
OF ALL THESE GRADUAL LIFESTYLE SHIFTS HELP UNLOCK THE DOOR TO A HEALTHIER, MORE FULFILLING EXISTENCE IN THE MIDST OF PHOENIX’S SUNSOAKED EMBRACE.
Discovering Your Health Ally: Tips on Finding Your Ideal Medical Practitioner in Phoenix
by: Rick Rome
In the sprawling metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona, where the sun’s radiance blends with the vibrant pulse of city life, finding the right physician isn’t merely a quest— it’s a crucial partnership in safeguarding your health and well-being. With an abundance of medical professionals and specialties, navigating this landscape to find your health ally can seem daunting. Yet, armed with insight and guidance, the journey becomes an empowering exploration to secure your perfect medical advocate.
Understanding Your Needs
Before delving into the sea of medical practitioners, introspection about your healthcare requirements is paramount. Consider your medical history, existing conditions, potential concerns, and personal preferences. Are you seeking a primary care physician for routine check-ups and or general healthcare maintenance? Or perhaps you need a specialist to address some specific health issues or chronic conditions? Identifying your needs serves as a compass, steering you toward the right medical professional and specialty.
Researching & Shortlisting
With your needs in focus, embark on an exploratory journey through Phoenix’s medical landscape. Begin by seeking recommendations from trusted sources—friends, family, or even current healthcare providers. Engage in online research, reputable medical directories, review platforms, and hospital or clinic websites. Pay attention to physicians’ qualifications, expertise, affiliations, and view patient testimonials, in addition to, any areas of specialization aligning with your healthcare needs.
Engaging with the Candidates
Armed with a shortlist of potential physicians, it’s time to engage in a much deeper evaluation. Schedule initial consultations or appointments, treating all of these interactions as fact-finding missions.
Take note of each of the physician’s communication style, their willingness to listen, and their ability to explain medical jargon in comprehensible terms. Measure each of their approach to patient care—do they prioritize a holistic approach to health, preventive care, or specialized treatment plans? Additionally, inquire about each of their availability, office hours, and emergency procedures to ensure compatibility with your schedule and potential healthcare emergencies.
Compatibility & Comfort
Beyond medical expertise, a vital facet of your physician-patient relationship is the intangible element of compatibility. Consider the rapport and comfort level you experience during each of your interactions. Trust and open communication form the bedrock of a successful healthcare partnership. Evaluate whether the physician pays respect to your concerns, engages in collaborative decision-making, as well as instilling confidence in their ability to guide your health journey.
Evaluating Support Systems
A physician’s practice is often backed by a team of healthcare professionals and support staff. Assess the clinic’s environment, staff demeanor, and overall patient experience. Having an efficient & supportive office team can also significantly impact your healthcare journey, ensuring seamless appointments, timely responses to queries, and overall satisfaction with the healthcare process.
Community and Network Engagement
In Phoenix Arizona’s vibrant medical community, tapping into local networks, support groups, or healthcare forums can offer invaluable insights. Engaging with fellow patients, participating in healthcare discussions, as well as seeking advice from local healthcare advocates can provide a broader view and aid in decision-making.
Forging a Health Partnership
Finding the right physician in the Greater Phoenix area is not just a matter of medical expertise— it’s about cultivating a nurturing healthcare relationship. Empower yourself with research, engage in thorough evaluations, and prioritize comfort & compatibility. Ultimately, it’s about forging a partnership that not only addresses your healthcare needs but also respects your values and concerns. In the sun-kissed embrace of Phoenix, let this journey to find your health ally be an empowering exploration, a large cornerstone in nurturing your well-being in this vibrant desert city of ours.
Cryotherapy for precancerous and benign skin lesions
Diagnosis and treatment of many medical problems
Doppler testing (to check for DVT, circulation, aortic aneurysm)
Ear wax removal
EKG (Electrocardiogram)
ECHO cardiogram (to check for cardiac evaluation)
Facilitated referrals to specialists and coordination of your care
Handicap placards
Lifestyle modification counseling
Minor dermatology procedures
Onsite laboratory for blood draw and urine analysis
Preoperative Evaluation
Pulse oximeter (oxygen level testing)
Same day visits for urgent medical needs
Screening for PAD with ABI (Ankle-Brachial Index)
Standard vaccinations
Suture removal
Vision exams
Well-woman exams, including breast exam and PAP smears
Wound care
Dr. Madhuri Dhupati, MD
Dr. Madhuri Dhupati’s approach to health care centers on fostering compassionate patient-physician relationships grounded in trust, open communication, and patient education. Her primary goal is to empower patients with the knowledge and tools for informed healthcare decisions, promoting their overall well-being
Dr. Julaiha Ariff, MD
A seasoned primary care internal medicine physician in Arizona, she embodies compassionate care, adeptly managing complex medical cases while prioritizing seamless collaborations for top-tier patient outcomes.
+ East Valley Hospitals
Arizona Regional Medical Center
2050 W. Southern Ave.
Apache Junction, Arizona
480-237-3200
https://myarmc.com
Physicans Surgery Centers of Tempe
1940 E. Southern Ave. Tempe, Arizona
480-820-7101
https://tempesc.com
Aurora Behavoirlal Healthcare-Tempe
6350 S. Maple Ave. Tempe, Arizona
480-345-5400
https://aurorabehavioral.com/tempe
Banner Desert Surgery Center
1500 S. Dobson Rd. Suite 101 Mesa, Arizona
480-412-3590
https://bannerhealth.com
Banner Heart Hospital
6750 E. Baywood Ave. Mesa, Arizona
480-854-5000 bannerhealth.com/bannerheart
Cardon Children’s Medical Center
1400 S. Dobson Rd. Mesa, Arizona
480-412-KIDS
https://bannerhealth.com/cardonchildresns
Arizona Orthopedic Surgical Hospital
2905 W. Warner Rd. Chandler, Arizona
480-603-9000
https://azosh.com
Banner Canyon Springs Surgery Center
2940 E. Banner Gateway Dr. Suite 100 Gilbert, Arizona
480-641-9292
https://bannerhealth.com
*Chandler Regional Medical Center
475 S. Dobson Rd. Chandler, Arizona
480-728-3000
https://chandlerregional.org
*Gilbert Hospital
5656 S. Power Rd. Gilbert, Arizona
480-984-2000
https://gilbertter.com
Warner Park Surgery Center
604 W. Warner Rd. Bld. A Chandler, Arizona
480-899-2571
https://warnerparksurgerycenter.com
*Banner Gateway Medical Center
1900 N. Higley Rd. Gilbert, Arizona
480-543-2000
https://bannerhealth.com/gateway
*Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
3555 S. Val Vista Dr. Gilbert, Arizona
480-728-8000
https://mercygilbert.org
Arizona Spine and Joint Hospital
4620 E. Baseline Rd. Mesa, Arizona
480-832-4770
https://azspineandjoint.com
Surgery Center of Gilbert
2450 E. Guadalupe Rd. Suite 101 Gilbert, Arizona
480-588-7541
https://gilbert-sc.com
Banner Baywood Medical Center
6644 E. Baywood Ave. Mesa, Arizona 480-321-2000
https://bannerhealth.com/baywood
*Arizona Regional Medical Center 515 N. Mesa Dr. Mesa, Arizona 480-898-3333
https://myarmc.com
*Banner Desert Medical Center
1400 S. Dobson Rd. Mesa, Arizona 480-412-3000
https://bannerhealth.com/desert
*Mountain Vista Medical Center
1301 S. Crismon Rd. Mesa, Arizona 877-924-WELL
mvmedicalcenter.com https://arizonaer.com
HealthSouth
East Valley Rehabilition Hospital
5652 E. Baseline Rd. Mesa, Arizona
480-567-0350
https://bannersoutheastvalley.com
*Banner Ironwood Medical Center
37000 N. Gantzel Rd. Queen Creek, Arizona 480-394-4000
https://bannerhealth.com/ironwood
*Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital
1500 S. Mill Ave. Tempe, Arizona 877-351-WELL tempestlukehospital.com
https://arizonaer.com
* Indicates Emergency Room Services Are Available
Banner Behavioral Health Hospital-Scottsdale
7575 E Earll Dr. Scottsdale, Arizona
800-254-HELP
https://bannerhealth.com
Greenbaum Surgical Speciality Hospital
3535 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, Arizona
480-822-4958
https://shc.org
Mayo Clinic Hospital
5777 E. Mayo Blvd. Scottsdale, Arizona
480-515-6296
https://mayoclinic.org
HealthSouth Scottsdale Rehabilitation Hospital
9630 E. Shea Blvd. Scotssdale, Arizona
480-551-5400
https://healthsouthscottsdale.com
North Valley Surigical Center
9522 E. San Savlador Dr. Suite 100 Scottsdale, Arizona
480-767-2100
https://northvalleysc.com
Kindred Hospital
Arizona Scottsdale
11250 N. 92nd St. Scotsdale, Arizona
480-391-4040
https://khscottsdale.com
Mayo Clinic
Outpatient Facility
13400 E. Shea Blvd. Scottsdale, Arizona
480-301-8000
https://mayoclinic.org
Scottsdale Healthcare
Osborn Medical Center
7400 E. Osborn Rd. Scottsdale, Arizona
480-882-4000
https://shc.org
+ Scottsdale Hospitals
Surgery Center of Scottsdale
8962 E. Desert Cove Rd. Scottsdale, Arizona
480-661-5232
https://scottsdale-sc.com
*Scottsdale Healthcare Shea Medical Center
9003 E. Shea Blvd. Scottsdale, Arizona
480-323-3000
https://shc.org
The Virginia G.Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare 10460 N. 92nd St. Scottsdale, Arizona
480-323-1255
https://shc.org
Scottsdale Healthcare Thompson Peak Hospital
7400 E. Thompson Peak Pkwy Scottsdale, Arizona
480-324-7000
https://shc.org
+ West Valley Hospitals
*Banner Estrella Medical Ctr
9201 W. Thomas Dr. Phoenix, Arizona
623-327-4000
https://bannerhealth.com/estrella
Aurora Behavioral Healthcare
6015 W. Peoria Ave. Glendale, Arizona
623-344-4400
https://aurorabehavioral.com/glendale
Banner Thunderbird Surgery Center
5555 W. Thunderbird Rd. Bld. B. Glendale, Arizona
602-865-5475
https://bannerhealth.com
Surigical Elite
10815 W. McDowell Rd. Suite 101
Avondale, Arizona
623-433-0110
Banner Thurderbird Medical Center
5555 W. Thunderbird Rd.
Glendale, Arizona
602-865-5555
https://bannerhealth.com/thunderbird
HealthSouth Valley of the Sun Rehab Hospital
13460 N. 67th Ave.
Glendale, Arizona
623-878-8800
https://healthvalleyofthesun.com
Union Hills Surgery Ctr
18301 N. 79th Ave Suite 150. Glendale, Arizona
623-487-7500
https://bannerhealth.com
Cancer Treatment Centers of America
14200 W. Fillmore St. Goodyear, Arizona
623-207-3000
https://cancercenter.com/western-hospital.cfm
*Arrowhead Hospital
18701 N. 67th Ave. Glendale, Arizona
623-561-1000
https://arrowheadhospital.com
Kindred Hospital
Arizona-Phoenix Northwest 13216 N. Plaza del Rio Blvd. Peoria, Arizona 623-974-5463
https://khphoenixnw.com
Surgery Center of Peoria 13260 N. 94th Dr. Suite 301 Peoria, Arizona
602-933-2900
https://peoriasc.com
Banner Estrella Surgical Ctr
9301 W. Thomas Dr. Phoenix, Arizona
623-388-5700
https://bannerhealth.com
Banner Boswell Medical Ctr Sun City
10401 W. Thunderbird Rd. Sun City, Arizona 623-977-7211
https://bannerhealth.com/boswell
*Banner Del Webb Hospital Sun City West
14502 W. Meeker Blvd. Sun City West, Arizona
623-214-4000
https://bannerhealht.com/webb
West Valley Hospital
13677 W. McDowell Rd. Goodyear, Arizona
623-882-1500
https://wvhospital.com
*Arizona Heart Hospital
1930 E. Thomas Rd.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-532-1000
https://azhearthospital.com
Arizona State Hospital
501 N. 24th St.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-244-1331
https://azdhs.gov/azsh
*Maricopa Integrated Health
2601 E. Roosevelt St. Phoenix, Arizona
602-344-5011
https://mihs.org
Hacienda Intermediate Care
1402 E. South Mountain Ave. Phoenix, Arizona
602-243-4231
https://haciendahealthcare.org
*John C Lincoln
Deer Valley Hospital
19829 N. 27th Ave. Phoenix, AZ
623-879-6100
https://jcl.com
Banner Good Samaritian Medical Ctr
1111 E. McDowell
Phoenix, Arizona
602-839-2000
https://bannerhealth.com/goodsam
Hacienda Skilled Nursing
1402 E. South Mountain Ave. Phoenix, Arizona
602-243-4231
https://haciendahealthcare.org
John C Lincoln
North Mountain Hospital
250 E. Dunlap Ave. Phoenix, Arizona
602-943-2381
https://jcl.com
Kindred Hospital
Arizona-Phoenix
40 E. Indianola Ave.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-280-7000
https://khphoenix.com
Los Ninos Hospital
2303 E. Thomas Rd.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-954-7311
https://haciendahealthcare.org
+ Cental Valley Hospitals
Biltmore Surgical Center
2222 E.Highland Ave. Ste 100
Phoenix, Arizona
602-490-3661
https://biltmoresurgical.net
Maryvale Hospital
5102 W. Campbell Ave. Phoenix, Arizona
623-848-5000
https://maryvalehospital.com
Metro Surgical Center
3131 W. Peoria Ave.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-375-1083
https://phoenixmetrosc.com
*Paradise Valley Hospital
3929 E. Bell Rd.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-923-5000
https://paradisevalleyhospital.com
*Phoenix Baptist Hospital
2000 W. Bethany Home Rd.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-249-0212
https://phoenixbaptisthospital.com
Phoenix Children’s Center for Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
1641 E. Osborn Rd. Suite 6
Phoenix, Arizona
602-241-0276
https://phoenixchildrens.com
Phoenix Children’s Hospital
1919 E. Thomas Rd.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-546-1000
https://phoenixchildrens.com
*Phoenix Children’s Surgical Ctr
1920 E. Cambridge Ave. Bld. E. Phoenix, Arizona
602-604-9400
https://phoenixchildrens.com
Phoenix Indian Medical Ctr
4212 N. 16th St.
Phoenix, Arizona
602-263-1200
https://www.ihs.gov/
Phoenix VA Healthcare Center
650 E. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, Arizona
800-554-7174
https://phoenix.va.gov
*St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center
350 W. Thomas Rd. Phoenix, Arizona
602-406-3000
https://stjosephs-phx.org
*St. Luke’s Medical Center
1800 E. Van Buren Phoenix, Arizona
877-351-WELL
https://stlukesmedicalcenter.com
https://azer.com
St. Luke’s Behavioral Health Center
1800 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, Arizona
602-251-8535
https://stlukesbehavioralhealth.com
Surgical Speciality Hospital of America
6501 N. 19th Ave. Phoenix, Arizona
602-795-6020
https://sshaz.com
University Medical Center
Transplant Medical
926 E. McDowell Rd. Phoenix, Arizona
800-542-4779
https://umcarizona.org
Surgicenter
1040 E. McDowell Rd. Phoenix, Arizona
602-258-1521
https://bannerhealth.com
Bad Pup GOOD PUP!
By Rick Rome
Welcoming a new puppy into your home can be an exhilarating experience, but it comes with its unique set of challenges. Training your puppy should be an essential part of creating a well behaved, happy, and harmonious furry family member. Let us walk you through the essential steps of puppy training, we will provide expert advice as well as proven techniques that will help you transform your mischievous furball into a well-trained, and well adjusted companion.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR PUPPY’S WORLD: THE KEY TO EFFECTIVE TRAINING
To successfully train your puppy, you must first delve into the world from their perspective. Puppies are not just smaller versions of adult dogs; they have unique needs, instincts, and developmental stages. Understanding their world is the foundation of effective training.
1. Curiosity and Exploration: Puppies are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. Their world is filled with new sights, sounds, and scents. As responsible puppy parents, it’s crucial to provide a safe and stimulating environment for them to satisfy their inquisitive nature. Encourage exploration and supervised play to help your puppy learn about their surroundings.
2. Communication through Body Language: Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and puppies are no exception. Understanding their non-verbal cues is vital in comprehending their feelings and needs. Tail wagging, ear position, and vocalizations are all part of their expressive language. This insight into their body language allows you to respond appropriately to their emotions, be it excitement, fear, or discomfort.
3. Developmental Stages: Puppies go through various developmental stages, each with its unique characteristics. From the neonatal stage, where they are entirely dependent on their mother, to the critical socialization period, where they learn about the world around them, recognizing these stages is essential. Your training approach should adapt to their specific needs and capabilities as they grow and develop.
4. Natural Instincts: Puppies are born with instincts that serve their survival and social needs. These include pack behavior, drive for prey, as well as territorial instincts. Understanding these natural behaviors will help you tailor your training methods to channel these instincts positively and prevent common behavioral issues. Harnessing their instincts in a constructive way is the key to a well-trained and content pup.
By understanding your puppy’s world, you’ll be better equipped to meet their needs and effectively train them. This knowledge allows you to create a safe and nurturing environment, communicate more effectively, and tailor your training techniques to match their unique developmental stages and instincts. With this foundation, you’re on your way to becoming a skilled and compassionate puppy parent.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement: A Gentle Approach to Puppy Training
Positive reinforcement is a training method that harnesses the power of rewards and encouragement to shape your puppy’s behavior. It’s a kind and effective approach that focuses on what your puppy does right, rather than punishing them for mistakes. In this section, we’ll explore why positive reinforcement is a game-changer in puppy training and how to use it effectively.
1. Rewarding Good Behavior: Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding and praising your puppy when they exhibit the desired behavior. This can include treats, verbal praise, toys, or affectionate gestures like petting. When your puppy associates their actions with rewards, they are more likely to repeat those behaviors. It’s a fantastic way to encourage obedience, as puppies are naturally eager to please.
2. Building Trust and Strengthening the Bond: Positive reinforcement creates a strong bond between you and your puppy based on trust and cooperation. Your puppy learns to trust that you will reward them for their good behavior, making training a pleasant and interactive experience. This mutual trust fosters a deep connection and a sense of security for your pup.
3. ENCOURAGING PROBLEM SOLVING WITH YOUR FUR-KID, IN ADDITION TO CONFIDENCE: Positive reinforcement encourages your puppy to think and solve problems independently. It boosts their confidence and helps them feel more in control of their environment. This approach is not just about teaching obedience; it’s about nurturing a well-rounded and self assured pup.
4. Avoiding Fear and Anxiety: Unlike with punishmentment based training, positive reinforcement avoids instilling fear or anxiety in your puppy. Punishment can lead to aggression, anxiety, and a breakdown in the bond between you and your furry friend. By focusing on the positive, you create a happy and secure learning environment.
Incorporating positive reinforcement into your puppy’s training regimen is a win-win for both you and your pup. It encourages good behavior, builds a strong bond, nurtures problem-solving skills, and prevents fear and anxiety. With the power of positive reinforcement, you can transform your energetic and curious puppy into a wellmannered and content companion.
Building a Safe and Comfortable Environment for Your Puppy: The Foundation for Training Success
Creating a safe and comfortable environment for your puppy is a critical step in successful training. Puppies are naturally inquisitive, and their safety and well-being depend on the environment you provide. This section will guide you through essential considerations in establishing a nurturing space for your pup.
1. Designated Safe Space: Begin by designating a specific area within your home where your puppy can feel safe and secure. This area may include a crate or playpen to prevent unsupervised exploration. Ensure that the space is free from potential hazards, such as toxic plants, exposed cords, or sharp objects. A safe space not only protects your puppy but also helps establish a consistent training routine.
2. Socialization and Exposure: A well-rounded puppy needs exposure to different experiences and stimuli. Gradually introduce your pup to various sounds, people, animals, and environments. This early socialization builds confidence and helps prevent behavioral problems later in life. Use positive reinforcement to create positive associations with new experiences, ensuring your puppy feels comfortable and secure in unfamiliar situations.
By creating a safe and comfortable environment for your puppy, you lay the groundwork for effective training and a harmonious life together. A designated safe space allows for supervision, consistency, and the prevention of accidents, while early socialization and exposure foster a confident and adaptable pup. With these elements in place, you’re well on your way to a successful training journey with your furry companion.
The Importance of Socialization: Nurturing a Well-Adjusted Puppy
Socialization is a fundamental aspect of puppy training that cannot be overstated. It’s the process of introducing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, environments, and experiences during their early developmental stages. This intentional exposure is critical for fostering confidence, preventing behavioral problems, and ultimately creating a well-adjusted and social adult dog.
1. Early Socialization for Confidence: Puppies are naturally curious and adaptable, making their early weeks an ideal time for socialization. During this period, their brains are highly receptive to new experiences and learning. By exposing them to a wide range of situations, you help them build confidence in dealing with the world around them.
2. Reducing Fear and Aggression: Proper socialization can significantly reduce the likelihood of fear-based aggression and anxiety in adult dogs. When puppies have positive early interactions with other dogs, animals, and humans, they are less likely to develop fear-based aggression issues later in life. This means that your dog is more likely to be friendly and relaxed in various social situations.
3. Preventing Behavioral Problems: Dogs that are well-socialized are less likely to exhibit problem behaviors such as excessive barking, biting, or destructive chewing. They are more comfortable in different environments and are less likely to become anxious or aggressive when exposed to new people or situations.
4. Positive Exposure to Different Environments: Socialization isn’t just about meeting other dogs or people; it’s also about getting your puppy accustomed to various environments. This includes places like parks, cities, beaches, and even vet clinics. By providing a positive association with these places through socialization, you make future visits less stressful for both you and your pup.
5. A Balanced and Happy Companion: The ultimate goal of socialization is to raise a balanced, well-adjusted, and happy companion. A well-socialized dog is more likely to enjoy social interactions, be comfortable around new people and animals, and adapt to a variety of environments and experiences.
In summary, the importance of socialization cannot be overstated in puppy training. Early socialization builds confidence, reduces fear and aggression, prevents behavioral issues, and creates a well-adjusted and happy canine companion. Make the effort to expose your puppy to the world around them during this critical developmental period, and you’ll reap the rewards of a socially adept and well-behaved adult dog.
Crate Training for Safety and Comfort: The Basics
Crate training is a valuable component of puppy training, offering both safety and comfort to your furry friend. The crate, when introduced correctly, becomes a secure space your puppy will cherish. In this section, we’ll explore the essential dos and don’ts of crate training.
Dos of Crate Training:
Positive Association: Ensure your puppy associates the crate with positive experiences. This can be achieved by placing treats, toys, and comfy bedding inside. Create a welcoming environment so your puppy feels at ease.
Gradual Introduction: Start by introducing your puppy to the crate gradually. Allow them to explore it at their own pace, making sure it’s a voluntary choice. Initially, leave the door open, and encourage them to enter without any pressure.
Safe Haven: The crate should be a safe haven, not a punishment tool. Never use the crate for disciplinary purposes, as this can lead to negative associations and stress for your puppy.
Don’ts of Crate Training:
Isolation: Avoid isolating your puppy for extended periods. Puppies are social creatures and require interaction and stimulation. Crating should be used in moderation and supplemented with play and exercise.
Excessive Confinement: It’s essential to balance crate time with outdoor play, socialization, and exploration. Overusing the crate can lead to restlessness and unhappiness.
Potty Training: A Must-Know Skill
Potty training is a crucial skill for both your puppy and you. Saying goodbye to messy accidents is a relief for every pet owner. In this section, we’ll guide you through the process of potty training, offering expert tips to make it a seamless experience for both you and your pup.
Establish a Routine: Consistency is key in potty training. Create a regular schedule for feeding, playtime, and bathroom breaks. Puppies thrive on predictability, and a routine helps them understand when it’s time to go outside.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your puppy with treats, praise, and affection when they eliminate in the designated potty area. Positive reinforcement reinforces the correct behavior, making it more likely to happen in the future.
Watch for Signs: Learn to recognize the signs that your puppy needs to go outside, such as sniffing, circling, or whining. When you notice these cues, take them out promptly.
Clean Accidents Thoroughly: If accidents happen inside, clean them thoroughly to remove any lingering scent. Puppies are more likely to eliminate in areas that smell like a previous accident.
Patience and Persistence: Potty training can be challenging, but patience and persistence are your allies. Celebrate every success and be understanding of occasional setbacks. With time, your puppy will become reliably potty trained.
Crate training and potty training are essential skills in raising a well-behaved and comfortable puppy. The crate becomes a secure and welcoming space, while potty training ensures a clean and stress-free living environment for both you and your furry companion.
Obedience Basics: Sit, Stay, and More
Obedience training forms the core of a well-behaved and responsive dog. This section will introduce you to essential commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” and provide techniques to teach them effectively. These commands are the building blocks of effective communication between you and your puppy.
Teaching “Sit”: “Sit” is one of the most fundamental commands in dog training. Begin by holding a treat close to your puppy’s nose and slowly raising it above their head. As they follow the treat with their nose, their bottom will naturally lower into a sitting position. When they sit, reward them with the treat and verbal praise. Consistency and repetition are key to mastering this command.
Teaching “Stay”: “Stay” is crucial for safety and control. Start by having your puppy sit. Then, with an open hand, palm facing your pup, give the “stay” command. Take a step back and return to your puppy. Gradually increase the distance and duration as your pup becomes more comfortable with the command.
Teaching “Down”: “Down” is another vital command that encourages your puppy to lie down on their belly. Begin with your puppy in a sitting position. Hold a treat close to their nose and slowly lower it to the ground. As they follow the treat, they will naturally lie down. Reward and praise them when they do. Like “sit” and “stay,” practice and repetition will reinforce this behavior.
Leash Walking: The Right Way
Leash walking can be either a delightful or frustrating experience, depending on your pup’s behavior. In this section, we’ll explore how to teach your puppy to walk politely on a leash, making your daily strolls enjoyable and stress-free.
Select the Right Gear: Begin by selecting the appropriate gear. A harness is a good choice for puppies, as it reduces pressure on the neck and is less likely to cause discomfort or injury. Attach a lightweight leash to the harness, and you’re ready to go.
The “Heel” Command: The “heel” command teaches your puppy to walk alongside you rather than pulling or lagging behind. Start by walking and giving the “heel” command, using a treat as a lure to encourage them to walk in the desired position. As they walk beside you, reward and praise them. Practice in low-distraction areas before advancing to busier places.
Stop and Go: Teach your puppy to stop when you stop and walk when you walk. This reinforces the idea that they should pay attention to your movements. Reward them when they follow your lead. Patience and consistency are essential in leash training.
By mastering obedience basics like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” and learning the art of leash walking, you’ll have a well-trained and attentive pup that can accompany you on walks without pulling or behaving erratically. These skills are pivotal in creating a positive and enjoyable relationship between you and your puppy.
Puppy Nipping and Chewing: Taming the Teething Beast
Puppies are notorious for their love of chewing, especially when they’re teething. In this section, we’ll explore how to manage this natural behavior and provide your pup with the right chew toys to safeguard your belongings.
Understanding Teething: Teething is a normal process that puppies go through as they transition from baby teeth to adult teeth. During this phase, they may experience discomfort and a strong urge to chew to alleviate it. Understanding the teething process is essential for managing their chewing behavior effectively.
Provide Chewing Outlets: To protect your furniture, shoes, and other valuable items from your puppy’s teeth, it’s crucial to offer a variety of appropriate chew toys. High-quality chew toys designed for teething puppies are readily available and can help soothe their gums while redirecting their chewing instincts.
Redirect and Positive Reinforcement: If your puppy starts nipping or chewing on something they shouldn’t, gently redirect their attention to an appropriate toy. When they use the correct chew toy, offer praise and treats. This positive reinforcement reinforces the idea that chewing on approved items is rewarded.
Supervision: While your puppy is going through the teething phase, close supervision is vital. Keeping a watchful eye on them helps prevent accidents and ensures you can redirect their chewing behavior as needed.
Managing Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common challenge for many puppies when left alone. In this section, our experts will share tips and strategies to help your pup feel secure and relaxed when you’re not around.
Gradual Introduction: Start by gradually introducing your puppy to the concept of being alone. Leave them alone for short periods and gradually extend the time. This helps your pup become accustomed to your absence without experiencing extreme distress.
Create a Safe Space: Designate a comfortable and secure space for your puppy when you’re away. A crate or a puppy-proofed room with their bed, toys, and water can offer a sense of security. Over time, this space will become associated with safety and relaxation.
Desensitization: Desensitize your puppy to the cues that indicate your departure. This can include picking up your keys, putting on your coat, or grabbing your bag. Do these activities without leaving to reduce the anxiety associated with these actions.
Comfort and Distraction: Provide your pup with comfort items like a blanket or clothing that smells like you. Additionally, offer interactive toys or puzzles to keep them engaged and distracted during your absence.
By understanding and managing puppy nipping and chewing during the teething phase and addressing separation anxiety with gradual introduction, creating a safe space, desensitization, and comfort items, you’ll ensure your pup is on the path to becoming a welladjusted and confident companion, both when you’re present and when you need to be away.
FOTO / Jaime Staley
Managing Separation Anxiety: Nurturing Confidence in Solitude
The pangs of separation anxiety can be a challenging aspect of puppyhood, both for the pet and their parent. In this section, our experts share invaluable tips on helping your pup feel secure and at ease when you’re not around.
Gradual Acclimatization: To help your puppy adjust to periods of solitude, start with gradual acclimatization. Brief absences that incrementally increase in duration allow your pup to grow accustomed to your absence without undue stress. This gentle introduction to being alone can help build their confidence in your eventual return.
Safe and Comfortable Space: Designate a safe and comfortable space for your puppy when you’re not at home. This area should be equipped with their bed, familiar toys, and access to fresh water. Over time, this space becomes a haven where your pup associates feelings of security and relaxation.
Desensitization: Desensitize your puppy to the signs that often precede your departure. Activities like picking up keys, donning a coat, or gathering belongings can create anxiety for your pup when they signal your impending absence. Practice these actions without leaving, helping to lessen the emotional impact.
Comfort and Distraction: Provide your pup with items that carry your scent, such as a blanket or clothing. These articles can offer reassurance and a sense of your presence. Additionally, interactive toys or puzzles can be engaging distractions, helping your puppy pass the time more contentedly while you’re away.
Advanced Training Techniques: Elevating the Training Experience
For those eager to take their training to the next level, this section introduces advanced techniques that extend beyond the basic commands. These techniques include agility training, where your puppy can navigate challenging courses, and the introduction of complex commands. Making training a dynamic and engaging experience for both you and your pup creates a deeper connection and shared enjoyment in the learning process.
Agility Training: Agility training not only promotes physical fitness but also mental agility for your pup. It involves navigating a series of obstacles, like jumps, tunnels, and weave poles. This playful and stimulating activity enhances your puppy’s coordination and responsiveness.
Complex Commands: Advanced training introduces complex commands that challenge your puppy’s cognitive abilities. These commands go beyond the basics like “sit” and “stay” and include tasks that require problem-solving and a deeper understanding of your cues. Engaging your pup’s intellect through complex commands keeps their mind sharp and creates a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
Building a Bond that Lasts: Beyond Training
Training extends far beyond the mastery of commands; it’s about forging a strong and enduring bond with your furry companion. In this section, we delve into how to create a loving and lifelong connection with your pup.
Quality Time: Spend quality time with your pup, not just during training sessions but in everyday interactions. Play, cuddle, and communicate with your pup, strengthening your connection through shared experiences.
Positive Association: Ensure that your puppy associates your presence with positive experiences. Use treats, praise, and affection to reinforce their understanding that being with you results in enjoyable moments.
Trust and Communication: Build trust by listening to your pup’s cues and signals. Effective communication is a two-way street; understanding your puppy’s needs and desires creates a foundation of trust and mutual respect.
Shared Adventures: Embark on shared adventures, whether it’s exploring the outdoors, going for a hike, or simply lounging together. These shared experiences create lasting memories and deepen your bond.
In sum, managing separation anxiety, exploring advanced training techniques, and building a lasting bond with your puppy form the final stages of a comprehensive and enriching training journey. These elements contribute to the development of a wellrounded, confident, and deeply connected companion that will bring joy and companionship throughout their lifetime.
Troubleshooting Training Challenges: Solutions for Common Hiccups
Even the most well-behaved puppies can encounter training challenges along the way. In this section, our experts provide solutions for common hiccups that might arise during the training process and offer tips for maintaining your hard-earned progress.
Addressing Stubbornness: Sometimes, puppies can be stubborn and resistant to certain commands. Patience and persistence are key. Use high-value treats, positive reinforcement, and shorter training sessions to keep their focus and motivation.
Overcoming Fear and Shyness: If your pup exhibits fear or shyness, it’s crucial to address the root causes. Gradual desensitization and exposure to positive experiences can help your puppy gain confidence and become more comfortable in various situations.
Dealing with Life’s Distractions: Puppies often get easily distracted during training, especially in a new or exciting environment. To maintain focus, increase the difficulty level gradually and practice in a variety of settings to build their ability to concentrate despite distractions.
Training for Different Breeds: BreedSpecific Considerations
Each dog breed comes with its own unique characteristics and tendencies. In this section, we’ll explore breed-specific training considerations to ensure your pup’s training aligns with their natural inclinations.
Understanding Breed Traits: Recognizing the traits specific to your pup’s breed is essential. For instance, herding breeds might have a strong instinct to chase, while retrievers might be driven by fetching. Tailor your training to harness these natural inclinations for a more successful training experience.
Adapting Training Methods: Some breeds respond better to certain training methods than others. While positive reinforcement works well for most breeds, you might need to adapt your approach slightly to match your pup’s breed-specific needs.
The Journey Continues: Lifelong Learning and Reinforcement
The journey of training doesn’t conclude when your puppy reaches adulthood. In this section, we discuss how to maintain and reinforce training throughout your dog’s life, ensuring a well-behaved and content canine companion.
Regular Refresher Sessions: Continue to engage in regular training sessions to reinforce your pup’s skills and strengthen your bond. Short and enjoyable sessions can be a part of your daily routine.
Socialization and Exposure: Maintain socialization efforts to ensure your dog remains comfortable around different people, animals, and environments. This ongoing exposure is crucial for a well-rounded and adaptable adult dog.
Advanced Training: As your puppy matures, consider advancing their training with more complex commands and activities. This keeps their mind engaged and offers new challenges.
With “Bad Pup... GOOD PUP!” as your guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the ups and downs of puppy training. Whether addressing common challenges, accommodating breed-specific traits, or continuing the training journey throughout your dog’s life, our experts’ advice will help you establish a strong foundation for a loving and lifelong connection with your four-legged companion.
Desert pups: Living the life of luxury
COVER STORY BY: Jackie Taylor
For those of us who consider our pets cherished family members, it’s only natural to want them to live a pampered and luxurious life. Our four-legged companions bring boundless joy and loyalty into our lives, and pampering them is a way to show our appreciation. Whether it’s through gourmet meals, designer accessories, or a comfy spot on the sofa, providing a life of comfort and opulence for our pets is a heartfelt expression of love. After all, their unwavering companionship deserves nothing less than the best, ensuring their days are filled with warmth, comfort, and the true luxury of being loved.
Privileged Puppies of Phoenix, Where they go, What they do. Phoenix, Arizona, and its surrounding cities are home to many privileged puppies and dogs. These pampered pooches enjoy the best of the best, from designer clothes and accessories to luxury spa treatments.
Couturiers who cater to privileged pups of Phoenix Arizona:
The Dog Spaw in Scottsdale is a one-stop shop for all things luxury for dogs. They offer a wide range of grooming services, including bathing, brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. They also offer a variety of designer clothing and accessories, including tutus, jeweled collars, bandanas, sweaters, dresses, and coats.
The Dog Spaw, in Scottsdale offers a wide range of designer clothing and accessories, including sweaters, dresses, and coats. They also have a selection of high-quality pet food and treats.
Petco and PetSmart, two major pet store chains, also have a selection of designer clothing and accessories for dogs. They also offer grooming services and a variety of pet food and treats.
Pet Spas That Are Available to Privileged Pups:
• The Dog Spaw offers a variety of spa services for dogs, including mud baths, aromatherapy massages, paw facials, heated swimming pools, and saunas.
• Petco and PetSmart offer a variety of grooming services, including bathing, brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. They also offer teeth brushing and paw facials.
In addition to these spa services, there are also a number of mobile dog groomers and pet sitters in the Phoenix area who offer luxury services. These services can include dog walking, pet sitting, and even overnight care in the groomer’s or pet sitter’s home.
Luxury Spa Services for Dogs:
• Mud baths: Mud baths can help to cleanse and exfoliate the skin, relieve itching, and reduce inflammation. They can also help to improve circulation and promote healing.
• Aromatherapy massages: Aromatherapy massages can help to relax and de-stress dogs, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve circulation.
• Paw facials: Paw facials can help to soften and moisturize the paws, remove dirt and debris, and prevent cracking.
• Heated swimming pools and saunas: Heated swimming pools and saunas can help to relax muscles, improve circulation, and promote healing.
Designer Clothing and Accessories for Pups:
• Tutus: Tutus are a fun and festive way to dress up your dog for special occasions.
• Jeweled collars: Jeweled collars are a stylish and glamorous way to accessorize your dog’s outfit.
• Bandanas: Bandanas are a versatile and practical accessory that can be worn for everyday wear or special occasions.
• Sweaters: Sweaters are a great way to keep your dog warm and cozy during the winter months.
• Dresses and coats: Dresses and coats are a stylish and fashionable way to dress up your dog for any occasion.
No matter what your budget is, there are a number of ways to spoil your privileged puppy or dog in Phoenix. With so many different couturiers and spa services to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect way to pamper your furry friend.
Celebrity Pup Sightings:
• Danica Patrick has been spotted with her dog, a Golden Retriever named Indigo, at the Scottsdale Waterfront and the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Trail.
• Alice Cooper and his wife, Sheryl Goddard, have been spotted with their two dogs, a German Shepherd named Buddy and a Dachshund named Doodles, at the Desert Botanical Garden and the Scottsdale Stadium.
• David Spade has been spotted with his dog, a French Bulldog named Norman, at the Scottsdale Fashion Square and the Biltmore Fashion Park.
• Nick Jonas and his wife, Priyanka Chopra, have been spotted with their two dogs, a German Shepherd named Gino and a Husky named Diana, at the Camelback Mountain Eco Canyon Trail and the Scottsdale Waterfront.
Fur•Friends 411
In the Phoenix region, our four-legged friends are more than just pets; they’re cherished members of the family. That’s why you’ll find a wealth of puppy groomers, spas, boutiques, as well as professional groomers dedicated to pampering and caring for your furry companions. From luxurious pet spas offering soothing baths and massages to boutique shops brimming with stylish accessories and delectable treats, Phoenix has it all. These establishments provide top-notch services that cater to every pet’s unique needs, ensuring that your canine companions look and feel their best. With a range of grooming and wellness options available, you can trust that your pets are in the caring hands of experts who understand the importance of keeping tails wagging and paws prancing in the vibrant Phoenix region.
Boutique & Spa
The Dog Spaw
335 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 106 Gilbert, AZ 85234 (480) 471-8884 https://dogspawaz.com
Oh My Dog!
7137 E. Stetson Road Scottsdale (480) 874-1200 www.ohmydogboutique.com
Pet Resort & Hotel
Bark Avenue Pet Resort
3109 E. McKellips Road
Mesa (480) 832-3631
www.barkavepet.com
Raintree Pet Resort 8215 Raintree Drive
Scottsdale (480) 991-3371
www.raintreepetscottsdale.com
Boulder Falls Pet Resort & Spa
1624 E. Deer Valley Road
Phoenix (623) 580-5000
www.boulderfalls.com
Tempe Lake Vet Clinic & Pet Resort
1211 E. Curry Road
Tempe (480) 966-1580
www.tlvcpets.com
Veterinary & Urgent Care
All Star Animal Hospital
16772 W. Bell Rd Ste 105
Surprise (623) 546-0202
www.allstaranimalhospital.com
Van Aken Pet Hospital
3869 W. Indian School Road
Phoenix (602) 278-6632
www.vanakenpet.com
Alta Vista Veterinary Hospital 4706 N. 7th Avenue
Phoenix (602) 277-1464
www.altavistavet.com
Grooming
Kimbur Pet Care 17031 W. Bell Road
Surprise (623) 544-7101
www.kimburpetwash.com
Doggy Daze Grooming Salon
5555 N 7th St #126
Phoenix, AZ 85014 (602) 626-5006
www.doggydazeaz.com
Wag N’ Wash
4230 N. 7th Avenue
Phoenix (602) 462-9274
VCA Mountain View Hospital
Emergency Animal Hospital 9812 N 7th Street
Phoenix (480) 991-1845
www.vcahospitals.com
Scottsdale Veterinary Clinic 7311 E. Thomas Road
Scottsdale (480) 945-8484
www.scottsdaleveterinaryclinic.com
Saguaro Veterinary Clinic 8426 E. McDonald Drive
Scottsdale (480) 948-1770 saguarovetclinic.com
FLAGSTAFF
“A WINTER PARK OASIS CLOSE ENOUGH FOR A DAY-TRIP.”
BY: JODIE WILSON
Flagstaff, Arizona, transforms into a winter wonderland when the snow blankets this charming mountain town. With its high elevation and proximity to the Arizona Snowbowl, Flagstaff is a haven for winter enthusiasts. The Snowbowl becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding, offering groomed trails and fresh powder for all skill levels. The surrounding Coconino National Forest is perfect for snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing, providing serene vistas of snow-covered Ponderosa pines. Downtown Flagstaff takes on a cozy ambiance with its quaint shops, inviting cafes, and holiday lights. Whether you’re a snow sports aficionado or seeking a picturesque winter escape, Flagstaff, AZ, delivers a magical winter experience. For more information on visiting Flagstaff during the winter season, explore www.flagstaffarizona.org.
PHOTO / Hilda Weges
Flagstaff, Arizona: A Winter Park Oasis Close Enough for a Day-Trip
When it comes to experiencing the enchanting beauty of winter, many think of far-off destinations like Aspen or Whistler. However, if you’re in the southwestern United States and craving a winter wonderland, you might be surprised to discover Flagstaff, Arizona, as a hidden gem for a day-trip winter escape. Nestled among the ponderosa pines of the Coconino National Forest, this charming city boasts a variety of outdoor and indoor activities that make it a perfect winter park oasis.
Flagstaff: The Winter Wonderland
Flagstaff is renowned for its year-round outdoor recreational opportunities, but winter adds a special touch to the city’s already captivating landscape. While the city may not receive as much snow as other northern destinations, its snowfall is sufficient to create a winter wonderland, turning Flagstaff into a picturesque escape for a day-trip or a longer stay.
Scenic Beauty and Snow Play
One of the most enticing aspects of Flagstaff is its breathtaking scenic beauty. With the San Francisco Peaks serving as a stunning backdrop, the city transforms into a winter postcard. The snow-covered landscapes and evergreen forests create a serene and captivating atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a day-trip escape.
For those seeking snow play, there are several options to explore. You can hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding at the Arizona Snowbowl, just a short drive from Flagstaff. This ski resort offers excellent terrain for all levels of experience and provides a snowy playground for visitors seeking wintery thrills.
Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking
Flagstaff also offers fantastic opportunities for snowshoeing and winter hiking. The surrounding trails, like those in the Flagstaff Nordic Center or the Coconino National Forest, are perfect for adventurers looking to explore the winter wonderland on foot. The crisp air, glistening snow, and the silence of the forest create an unforgettable experience.
One particularly popular destination is the Lava River Cave, a unique lava tube that remains chilly year-round. With temperatures hovering around freezing inside, it’s an intriguing destination for a cold-weather adventure. Snowshoes are a must to navigate the snow-covered trail leading to the cave entrance.
ARIZONA SNOWBOWL
Nestled amid the pristine beauty of northern Arizona, Snowbowl near Flagstaff is a beloved winter wonderland that offers a unique and memorable alpine experience. Located just a short drive from Flagstaff, this ski and snowboard resort boasts a combination of stunning natural landscapes and excellent winter sports opportunities. The crown jewel of Snowbowl is the awe-inspiring San Francisco Peaks, whose snow-covered slopes provide the perfect canvas for winter adventures. With a variety of ski runs and trails catering to all skill levels, Snowbowl is an ideal destination for both seasoned skiers and those just starting their alpine journey. Visitors can carve their way down the mountain while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding Coconino National Forest, a scene that is particularly enchanting during the snowy season. With modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, Snowbowl offers a complete winter experience for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to embrace the snowdusted charm of northern Arizona.
Family Fun in the Snow
Flagstaff’s winter charm extends to familyfriendly activities as well. The Flagstaff Nordic Center features a designated snow play area, perfect for building snowmen and enjoying snowball fights. Families can rent snowshoes and cross-country skis to explore the area together.
Further, the city often hosts winter festivals and events, such as the annual Flagstaff SnowPark at Fort Tuthill County Park, featuring snow-tubing, sledding, and even a snow maze. These events provide the perfect opportunity for families to celebrate the snowy season with laughter and joy.
Indoor Attractions
Flagstaff isn’t just about outdoor adventures. The city offers a range of indoor attractions to explore, providing a well-rounded winter experience for visitors.
Lowell Observatory: For a fascinating indoor adventure, visit the Lowell Observatory, where you can explore the night sky through powerful telescopes. It’s an excellent destination for learning about celestial wonders and appreciating the winter stars.
Museum of Northern Arizona: This museum is a treasure trove of cultural and natural history, showcasing exhibits on the region’s geology, anthropology, and Native American art. It’s a perfect place to escape the cold and learn about the area’s rich heritage.
Local Breweries and Eateries: Warm up in one of Flagstaff’s acclaimed breweries or cozy restaurants, indulging in delicious cuisine and locally brewed beverages. Pay a visit to the historic Lumberyard Brewing Company for craft beer and hearty meals, or explore the Mother Road Brewing Company to savor their specialty beers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Day-Trip from Nearby Cities
Flagstaff’s accessibility from nearby cities like Phoenix and Sedona makes it an ideal day-trip destination. The city is just a few hours’ drive from Phoenix, offering an escape from the desert heat to a winter wonderland. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the winter ambiance without the need for an extended getaway.
Extend Your Stay
While Flagstaff is ideal for a day-trip, the city’s charm and surrounding attractions make it worthy of a more extended visit. If your schedule allows, consider staying overnight or for a weekend to fully immerse yourself in all that this winter park oasis has to offer.
Sedona: The Red Rock Wonderland
While you’re in the region, don’t miss the opportunity to visit
VISIT FLAGSTAFF EXTREME
Flagstaff Extreme in Arizona is your gateway to an exhilarating outdoor adventure within the stunning Coconino National Forest. Located amidst a lush Ponderosa pine forest, this unique attraction offers visitors of all ages a chance to experience nature in a whole new way. Featuring a variety of treetop obstacle courses, ziplines, and suspended bridges, Flagstaff Extreme provides the ultimate adrenaline rush. It’s not just about adventure; it’s about connecting with the natural beauty of Arizona. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned adventurer, this park offers a challenging journey through the treetops you won’t forget. Plan your adventure at Flagstaff Extreme by visiting www. flagstaffextreme.com or calling (888) 259-0125. Get ready for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
nearby Sedona. This picturesque town, known for its stunning red rock formations, is just a short drive from Flagstaff. With its unique beauty, Sedona provides a striking contrast to Flagstaff’s winter landscapes. Spend some time exploring the red rock trails, enjoying the arts scene, or indulging in the local cuisine.
Flagstaff, Arizona, might not be the first place that comes to mind when considering a winter day-trip destination, but its unique blend of scenic beauty, outdoor activities, indoor attractions, and family-friendly experiences make it a hidden gem in the Southwest. Whether you’re seeking snowy adventures, family fun, or simply a serene escape from city life, Flagstaff offers it all. So, when winter calls, consider a day-trip to this charming winter park oasis, where nature and adventure await amidst the snowy landscapes of the Coconino National Forest.
Wukoki Ruin, nestled within the Wupatki National Monument in northern Arizona, stands as a remarkable testament to the ancestral Puebloan people who thrived in this region over 800 years ago. This ancient pueblo, with its striking D-shaped architecture perched on a sandstone outcrop, offers a fascinating journey into the past. The name “Wukoki,” derived from the Hopi language, fittingly means “Big House,” reflecting the grandeur of this multi-story structure. While its exact purpose remains a subject of study and debate, the site’s strategic location, intricate construction, and presence of kivas within its walls suggest both residential and ceremonial significance. Visiting Wukoki allows you to explore the rich history and architectural achievements of these ancient people, all against the backdrop of the breathtaking Arizona desert.
“FLAGSTAFF: WHERE WINTER DREAMS COME TO LIFE!”
1400 West Mars Hill Rd Flagstaff AZ, 86001
Full Day Pricing
$29 Adults (18+)
$26 AAA/Seniors 55+/Military
$19 College students
$17 Children (5-17)
774-3358
For more than 125 years, Lowell Observatory has been shaping history under the mesmerizing, star-studded skies of Flagstaff, Arizona. Come and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of astronomy’s past, present, and it’s future firsthand.
The moon was at about first quarter when we shot this on November 20, 2012 in mediocre (1.0 arcsec) seeing. The image is a composite of five images that have been stitched together, and each exposure was 0.001 sec through a V filter, a testiment to our 125mm Bonn shutter.
THIS IS OUR BIRTHRIGHT
Benefits of Transformational Coaching
Improved Self Confidence and Motivation
New Perspectives
Heightened Self Awareness
Creating a Balanced Life
Improved Relationships
Creating and Achieving Goals
Health, Happiness, and Vitality
Clarity of Purpose and Passion
Live the Highest Version of Self – Mind, Body, Spirit, and Soul
Explore Limitations and Strengths
Unlock Creativity and Potential
Based in Sedona amongst the vortexes and majestic Red Rocks. The energies of this profound location deeply inform and inspire my personal work and the work I do with my clients. If you cannot work with me in person in Sedona, let sacred Sedona come to you in a phone session.
The last couple of years have given us a lot of material to navigate. Some of us have risen to the occasion. Some of us have isolated. All of us have felt moments of disenchantment, and, perhaps, despair. All of us have been faced with a choice; to see challenges or problems. As we step into the new year, what are you choosing for yourself?
I’m Hillary Metz, a transformational coach based in Sedona, Arizona. I am devoted to healing, beauty, empowerment, and transformation: for myself and my clients. Combining my intuition, life experiences, and coach training, I have developed a unique blueprint to create a rich, meaningful life. In these rapidly changing times, the world needs all of us on deck and in our heart-centered power.
Coaching with me is a collaboration. I don’t have all the answers to your questions. You do, though. That’s right. You do. Together we will dissolve mental, emotional, and spiritual obstacles preventing you from hearing and following your own innate wisdom. With an unwavering stand for your greatness, I’ll offer you illuminating…sometimes tough, sometimes tender…questions to explore within a safe, nurturing, and often humorous, container. Your answers will reveal action steps to propel you into deeper levels of inspiration, purpose, and empowerment…and align your internal dreams and desires with your external world.
Navigating the skies over Sedona
by: Emily Jackson
Sedona, Arizona is a city known for its stunning red rock formations and its spiritual energy. It is also a popular destination for hot air ballooning. Hot air balloon rides in Sedona offer breathtaking views of the red rocks, the surrounding desert, and the Mogollon Rim.
Why Choose Sedona for Hot Air Ballooning?
There are many reasons to choose Sedona for hot air ballooning, including:
Stunning scenery: Sedona is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, including the red rock formations of Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte. Hot air ballooning is a great way to see these amazing landscapes from a unique perspective.
Mild climate: Sedona has a mild climate year-round, making it possible to go hot air ballooning any time of year. However, the best time to go hot air ballooning in Sedona is during the spring and fall, when the weather is cool and calm.
Abundant sunshine: Sedona is known for its abundant sunshine, which is essential for hot air ballooning.
Hot Air Ballooning Companies in Sedona
There are a number of hot air ballooning companies in Sedona, including:
• Red Rock Balloon Adventures
• Hot Air Expeditions
• Sedona Balloon Adventures
What to Expect on a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Sedona
Hot air balloon rides in Sedona typically last for about an hour. You will meet your pilot at the launch site and help to set up the balloon. Once the balloon is ready, you will climb into the basket and the pilot will fire up the burner. The balloon will slowly lift off the ground and you will begin your journey.
During your flight, you will enjoy stunning views of the red rocks, the surrounding
desert, and the Mogollon Rim. You may even be able to see wildlife such as deer, elk, and birds from a bird’s-eye view.
At the end of your flight, the pilot will land the balloon in a safe location. You will then help to pack up the balloon and return to the launch site.
Tips for Booking a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Sedona
When booking a hot air balloon ride in Sedona, it is important to consider the following factors:
Time of year: The best time to go hot air ballooning in Sedona is during the spring and fall, when the weather is cool and calm. However, hot air balloon rides are available year-round.
Weather conditions: Hot air balloon rides are cancelled in bad weather, such as high winds or thunderstorms. It is important to check the weather forecast before booking your ride.
Pilot experience: Make sure to book with a reputable company that has experienced pilots.
Price: Hot air balloon rides in Sedona can range in price from $100 to $500 per person.
What to Wear on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
It is important to wear comfortable clothing on a hot air balloon ride. You may also want to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
What to Bring on Your Balloon Ride
You may want to bring a camera to capture the amazing views. You may also want to bring a water bottle and snacks.
Safety Considerations
Hot air ballooning is a very safe activity, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Follow the instructions of your pilot. Stay inside the basket of the balloon at all times.
Be aware of your surroundings. Enjoy the ride!
Here are a few additional tips for hot air ballooning in Sedona:
Book your ride in advance. Hot air balloon rides are popular in Sedona, so it is important to book your ride in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak season.
Arrive early. It is important to arrive at the launch site early, so that you have time to help set up the balloon and get briefed by the pilot.
Be prepared for any weather. Even though Sedona has a mild climate, it is always a good idea to be prepared for any weather, especially if you are going hot air ballooning during the spring or fall.
Relax and enjoy the experience! Hot air ballooning is a magical experience that you will never forget. Relax and enjoy the ride!
Hot air ballooning in Sedona is an unforgettable experience. With its stunning scenery, mild climate, and abundant sunshine, Sedona is the perfect place to go hot air ballooning. If you are looking for a truly unique and memorable experience, book a hot air balloon ride in Sedona today!
WE ARE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN SEDONA
Ear Coning, a historical practice employed by various cultures including India, China, Tibet, Egypt, and Ancient Greece, has resurfaced in contemporary times. Also known as candling, this traditional therapy gained prominence through the Hopi Native American Tribe of the American South-West. The current adaptation of this treatment primarily aligns with the form historically utilized by the Hopi, translating to “Peaceful People.” For inquiries or appointments, please reach out via text or call at (623) 670-2570.
AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING THROUGH
CONING CARE INFUSED WITH THE
During a Coning Care session, our clinicians harness the transformative energies of specially crafted candles infused with high-vibrational gems and minerals. Each candle, meticulously handmade using a unique alchemy process, embodies distinctive properties that guide the spiritual journey. As the session begins, the Moldavite candle, a gem-grade meteorite, initiates rapid spiritual transformation and attracts synchronicities, paving the way for profound evolution. Simultaneously, the Golden Celestite candle nurtures and heals, connecting us to the harmonious energies of Gaia and the solar system. The Tanzanite candle activates multiple chakras, facilitating clear communication and inner awakening, while Labradorite sparks self-discovery and magic, providing protection and balance. Lastly, the Chrysoprase candle brings emotional healing, centering the heart and offering courage amidst adversity. These candles, integral to our Coning Care practice, create an ambiance conducive to spiritual growth and healing during our sessions.
Within a Coning Care session, our clinicians utilize an array of specially handcrafted cones, each imbued with distinct therapeutic properties and profound spiritual symbolism. Crafted meticulously from 100% unbleached cotton, beeswax, and an intricate blend of essential oils, extracts, and essences, these cones serve as catalysts for healing and spiritual growth. The Respiratory Refresher cone, with Mullein Flower, Spearmint, Rosemary, Cedar, Goldenseal, and Echinacea, aids respiratory health, while the Native Blend cone, featuring Mullein Flower, St. John’s Wort, and Chamomile, offers soothing relief for the ear canal. Additionally, cones like Easter Lily, Iris, Cat’s Ears, Osha Root, Rose, Yerba Santa, Sagebrush, Black Cohosh, and Lady’s Slipper symbolize various spiritual stages, providing a holistic journey by releasing toxins, enhancing inner awareness, and fostering emotional equilibrium. These cones are instrumental in our Coning Care practice, fostering a harmonious environment for both healing and spiritual evolution during our sessions.
Introducing our exclusive Tachyon Infused Soy Candles, the unparalleled essential oil candles infused with Tachyon particles and crystals. Derived from zero-point energy, Tachyon represents the genesis of the energy continuum, radiating a serene and supportive energy that effortlessly enriches any environment. Delight in an extensive burn time of 180 hours with each meticulously handcrafted candle originating from Sedona, Arizona. Experience the harmonious embrace of Tachyon’s tranquil energy in every space—a perfect addition to elevate your surroundings. BOOK
REDISCOVER Retreats for Women:
our innate power, passions, and gifts as leaders on this planet.”
“Rediscovering
Our retreats in Sedona AZ are for you if you are ready to receive…
•pampering for your mind, body, and spirit
•group sessions to amplify your energetic body
•realignment of your nervous system
•nourishment from delicious and organic food
•new experiences through healing technologies, workshops, and mini courses
•1:1 sessions to feel connected to your inner wisdom
•practices and modalities to feel and be the best version of you
•intentional ways to be in connection with yourself and the sacred elements of the land
•an exciting way to enjoy the celebration of being YOU!
Why is this Supportive for My Well-Being?
Lauren has created retreats and one on one healing experiences in Sedona for over 2,500 people all over the world. It is her great passion to build experiences that people might not otherwise give themselves with the level of expertise, care, and compassion that she employs from.
As a teacher, facilitator, guide, and leader in the community, Lauren brings in the most skilled professionals to create magical and memorable experiences for people of all ages and backgrounds. She creates a space of safety, comfort, passion, and FUN for everyone!
Why Custom Retreats?
Rediscover Retreats are designed for individuals and groups to experience themselves in their highest joy, authenticity, and to rediscover their own unique and innate wisdom. The focus of the retreats center around connecting people back into living the life of their truest desires. Through this retreat experience, people step away from the ordinary and live into their innate extraordinary selves!
With Lauren’s assistance groups select the modalities, sessions, and experiences that they see most beneficial. These retreats allow people to build a retreat that feels individualized and supportive of their personal goals, passions, and desires.
Lauren’s Rediscovery retreat was MAGIC. Lauren held a beautiful sacred container for love, joy and connection. I came home with renewed energy, new friendships, and felt more deeply connected to my spirit. I also had a dramatic improvement in my foot which was healing from a previous injury! The schedule had such a great balance of time in nature, time in connection, and also time to receive nourishing treatments, reflect and integrate. I highly recommend this experience. It’s a sacred gift to give yourself :)
Dana - June 2021
If you’re lucky enough to be invited to one of Lauren’s retreats, jump at the opportunity! Her retreats are filled with light, love, and hope! Such an enriching, rejuvenating, and delightful time! From the accommodations to the delicious organic food to the soul connections, it’s truly a not-to-miss experience.
Cary R - Oct 2023
The women’s retreat in Sedona was one of my favorite events I’ve ever attended. It was super sweet, empowering, uplifting, entertaining and so nice to be surrounded by positive feminine energy!
Danika - May 2023
Phone: (708) 710-0605
email: lightofgrace77@gmail.com
Learn more about our offerings & retreats: https://www.lightofgracereiki.com
Soaring Over Arizona: Fun For All, Hot Air Ballooning Events
by: Esther Fairbanks
Under the enchanting Arizona night sky, a captivating scene unfolds, as enthusiastic attendees gather at the launch area. Bathed in the soft glow of lanterns and twinkle lights, people of all ages come together to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of illuminated hot air balloons taking flight. The nighttime desert backdrop shimmers with the warm hues of the balloons, creating a magical atmosphere for a night of wonder and togetherness. This photograph perfectly captures the sense of awe and communal spirit that this annual event brings to the Grand Canyon State under the stars.
Arizona’s breathtaking landscapes & clear skies make it an ideal destination for hot air ballooning enthusiasts. Each year, the state hosts a variety of hot air ballooning events that attract both participants and spectators. These events not only showcase the beauty of Arizona from the sky but also offer a unique blend of adventure, culture, and community.
Let’s explore some of the top hot air ballooning events in the Grand Canyon State.
Arizona Balloon Classic:
Held annually in Goodyear, the Arizona Balloon Classic is a vibrant celebration of hot air ballooning. This event features colorful balloons taking flight against the stunning backdrop of the Estrella Mountains. Spectators can witness mass ascensions, balloon glows, and even tethered rides. The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and a family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a great way to introduce friends and family to the magic of ballooning.
The Cave Creek Balloon Festival is a magical evening event held at Rancho Mañana Golf Course. This festival combines the allure of hot air balloons with live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere. The highlight is the spectacular balloon glow, where the balloons light up the night sky in sync with music. It’s a memorable experience that draws locals and visitors alike.
Location: Rancho Mañana Golf Course, Cave Creek, Arizona https://cavecreekfestivals.com/
Dates: March 31-April 2, 2024
Havasu Balloon Festival and Fair:
Lake Havasu City hosts an annual Balloon Festival and Fair that brings together over 60 hot air balloons from across
the United States. This event includes mass ascensions, balloon rides, and competitions, making it a haven for enthusiasts. The fair adds an extra layer of fun with carnival rides, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.
Location: Lake Havasu City, Arizona https://havasuballoonfestival.com/
Dates: November 17-19, 2023
Tunes and Balloons Over De Meo Park:
Sedona’s Tunes and Balloons Over De Meo Park event is a perfect fusion of music and ballooning. Balloons launch at sunrise, and evening events feature live music, food vendors, and the mesmerizing balloon glow. The red rock formations of Sedona create a stunning backdrop for the colorful balloons, making this event a unique experience.
Location: Sedona, Arizona
Dates: August 18-19, 2024
Gila Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival:
In Safford, the Gila Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival offers a delightful experience for all ages. The event includes balloon launches, tethered rides, and a variety of entertainment and activities for families. The rural beauty of the Gila Valley makes for a picturesque ballooning backdrop.
Spectacular Sedona hosts the Red Rock Balloon Rally, attracting balloonists from all over the country. This event offers visitors a chance to witness the vibrant balloons soaring amid Sedona’s iconic red rock formations. The rally is complemented by a holiday parade, live entertainment, and a festive atmosphere.
Location: Sedona, Arizona
https://redrockballoons.com/
Dates: September 20-22, 2024
For those who’ve always dreamed of floating among the clouds in a hot air balloon, or even if you simply want to enjoy the beauty and excitement from the ground, Arizona’s hot air ballooning events offer a unique way to experience the state’s natural beauty and sense of community. With a range of events taking place throughout the year, there’s always an opportunity to be a part of the ballooning magic in the Grand Canyon State.
Après Work
By Jim Schwartz
Après-work in Phoenix, Arizona is a vibrant and diverse scene, with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink with friends, a lively happy hour, or a more upscale dining experience, you’re sure to find it in the Valley of the Sun.
Some popular après-work spots in Phoenix include:
Drink plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you’re drinking alcohol. Take advantage of happy hour specials. Many restaurants and bars in Phoenix offer happy hour specials during the après-work hours. Make reservations, especially if you’re dining at a popular restaurant. Be prepared for crowds. Après-work is a popular time to go out in Phoenix, so be prepared for crowds at popular spots.
Have fun and enjoy your après-work in Phoenix!
Rooftop bars: Phoenix has a number of rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city skyline and Camelback Mountain. These bars are perfect for enjoying a drink and appetizers with friends after a long day at work. Some popular rooftop bars include Upward, Topgolf, and The Vesper.
Breweries: Phoenix is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering happy hour specials and live music. Some popular breweries include Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company, Huss Brewing Company, and Four Peaks Brewing Company.
Cocktail lounges: Phoenix also has a number of sophisticated cocktail lounges where you can enjoy a craft cocktail or two. Some popular cocktail lounges include The Vig, The Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour, and Crudo. Wine bars: If you’re a wine lover, you’ll be happy to know that Phoenix has a number of wine bars where you can sample wines from around the world. Some popular wine bars include The Grape Escape, The Wine House, and Postino WineCafe.
Restaurants: Many restaurants in Phoenix offer happy hour specials, discounts, and live music during the après-work hours. Some popular restaurants for après-work include The Yard House, The Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, and Puesto.
No matter what you’re looking for in an après-work experience, you’re sure to find it in Phoenix, Arizona.
Here are some additional tips for enjoying après-work in Phoenix:
Dress comfortably. The weather in Phoenix is often warm, even in the evening, so dress in light, comfortable clothing. Bring sunscreen. Even if it’s cloudy, the sun can still be strong in Phoenix, so be sure to apply sunscreen before you go out.
Drink plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you’re drinking alcohol. Take advantage of happy hour specials. Many restaurants and bars in Phoenix offer happy hour specials during the après-work hours. Make reservations, especially if you’re dining at a popular restaurant.
Be prepared for crowds. Après-work is a popular time to go out in Phoenix, so be prepared for crowds at popular spots.
Have fun and enjoy your après-work in Phoenix!
Cocktail lounges: Phoenix also has a number of sophisticated cocktail lounges where you can enjoy a craft cocktail or two. Some popular cocktail lounges include The Vig, The Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour, and Crudo.
Wine bars: If you’re a wine lover, you’ll be happy to know that Phoenix has a number of wine bars where you can sample wines from around the world. Some popular wine bars include The Grape Escape, The Wine House, and Postino WineCafe.
Restaurants: Many restaurants in Phoenix offer happy hour specials, discounts, and live music during the après-work hours. Some popular restaurants for après-work include The Yard House, The Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant, and Puesto.
No matter what you’re looking for in an après-work experience, you’re sure to find it in Phoenix, Arizona.
Here are some additional tips for enjoying après-work in Phoenix:
Dress comfortably. The weather in Phoenix is often warm, even in the evening, so dress in light, comfortable clothing.
Bring sunscreen. Even if it’s cloudy, the sun can still be strong in Phoenix, so be sure to apply sunscreen before you go out.
Drink plenty of water every day. It’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you’re drinking alcohol.
Take advantage of happy hour specials. Many restaurants and bars in Phoenix offer happy hour specials during the après-work hours.
Make reservations, especially if you’re dining at a popular restaurant.
Be prepared for crowds. Après-work is a popular time to go out in Phoenix, so be prepared for crowds at popular spots.
Have fun and enjoy your après-work in Phoenix!
Rooftop bars: Phoenix has a number of rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city skyline and Camelback Mountain. These bars are perfect for enjoying a drink and appetizers with friends after a long day at work. Some popular rooftop bars include Upward, Topgolf, and The Vesper.
Breweries: Phoenix is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering happy hour specials and live music. Some popular breweries include Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company, Huss Brewing Company, and Four Peaks Brewing Company.
WEST VALLEY
ARROWHEAD GRILL
4.8-star Google Review Rating
8280 W Union Hills Dr, Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 566-2224
Known for it’s top quality steaks, seafood, and classic American cuisine.
FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
4.6-star Google Review Rating 8350 W Arrowhead Towne Center Dr #110 Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 772-9463
Known for it’s prime steak cuts, seafood, and an extensive wine list.
HASH KITCHEN
4.7-star Google Review Rating
8350 W Arrowhead Towne Center Dr #100 Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 566-9922
Modern American cuisine with a focus on brunch.
BOTTEGA PIZZERIA RISTORANTE
4.8-star Google Review Rating 4115 N 75th Ave. Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 362-2688
Known for it’s authentic Italian cuisine & incredible pizza.
DIFFERENT POINTE OF VIEW
4.5-star Google Review Rating 11111 N 7th St. Phoenix, AZ 85022 (602) 866-6350
Known for it’s fine dining with stunning views of the Phoenix Valley.
FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
4.6-star Google Review Rating
8350 W Arrowhead Towne Center Dr #110 Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 772-9463
Known for it’s prime steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list.
BOURBON & BONES
4.6-star Google Review Rating 9725 W Northern Ave #112 Peoria, AZ 85382 (623) 247-6975
Known for it’s southern-inspired cuisine with a focus on wood-fired cooking.
THE SOCIAL ON 83RD
4.7-star Google Review Rating 8383 W Bell Rd #100 Peoria, AZ 85382 (623) 878-3880
Modern American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
LITCHFIELD’S
4.5-star Google Review Rating 31720 N Litchfield Rd. Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 (623) 935-4900
Known for it’s steaks, seafood, & classic American cuisine in a beautiful setting
VOGUE BISTRO
4.3-star Google Review Rating 15411 W Waddell Rd. Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 544-9109
Known for it’s French-inspired haute cuisine.
ARROWHEAD GRILL
4.8-star Google Review Rating 14353 W Bell Rd. Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 544-6817
Known for it’s steaks, seafood, and classic American cuisine.
PORTOFINO RISTORANTE WEST
4.5-star Google Review Rating 13385 W Grand Ave #108. Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 546-5555
Known for it’s Authentic Italian cuisine
FIREBIRDS WOOD FIRED GRILL
4.6-star Google Review Rating 14161 W Bell Rd #100 Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 975-8473
Known for it’s American cuisine with a focus on wood-fired cooking
FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
4.6-star Google Review Rating 13529 W Grand Ave. Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 975-7777
Known for it’s prime steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list
STATE 48 BREWERY
4.4-star Google Review Rating 14330 W Bell Rd. Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 975-2739
Known for it’s pizza, American cuisine, and craft beer
ANGELA’S KITCHEN
4.4-star Google Review Rating 13131 W Bell Rd #103 Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 975-2244
Known for it’s American cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients
NICKS DINER II
4.4-star Google Review Rating 16415 W Bell Rd #101 Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 546-2700
Known for it’s American diner cuisine.
RIO MIRAGE CAFE
4.4-star Google Review Rating 13379 W Grand Ave #106 Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 546-2233
Known for it’s authentic Mexican cuisine, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
LOU’S TIVOLI GARDENS
4.3-star Google Review Rating 13131 W Bell Rd #104 Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 546-3474
Known for it’s Italian cuisine.
CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL
4.1-star Google Review Rating 14043 W Bell Rd. Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 214-3299
Known for it’s Italian cuisine
THE MELTING POT
4.6-star Google Review Rating 8380 W Arrowhead Towne Center Dr #108 Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 937-5588
Known for it’s Interactive fondue dining.
COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT
4.6-star Google Review Rating 9745 W Bell Rd. Peoria, AZ 85382 (623) 247-9294
Known for it’s American cuisine with a focus on wine pairings
PALMA
4.5-star Google Review Rating 10575 W McDowell Rd #100. Avondale, AZ 85392 (623) 932-7256
Known for it’s modern American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients
SEASONS 52
4.7-star Google Review Rating 8380 W Arrowhead Towne Center Dr #104 Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 937-5522
Known for it’s Modern American cuisine, focus on seasonal ingredients & focus on 450 calories or less per dish
THE VIG
4.7-star Google Review Rating 208 W Park West Blvd. Glendale, AZ 85302 (623) 466-1935
Known for it’s American cuisine with a Southwestern flair.
LITCHFIELD’S
4.5-star Google Review Rating 300 E Wigwam Blvd. Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 (855) 855-7540
Known for its New American cuisine amid a rustic, elegant atmosphere.
PAPA PAUL’S BRICK OVEN PIZZA & PASTA
4.5-star Google Review Rating 14861 W Indian School Rd. Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 (623) 935-3113
Known for its wood-fired pies, hearty pasta dishes & sandwiches.
EAST VALLEY
QUIESSENCE
4.8-star Google Review Rating (480) 945-9443
4041 N Scottsdale Rd. #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s fine dining with a focus on modern American cuisine and seasonal ingredients.
BECKETT’S TABLE
4.8-star Google Review Rating (602) 264-1083
3719 E Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85018
Known for it’s New American cuisine with a seasonal menu and extensive wine list.
OCOTILLO
4.8-star Google Review Rating (602) 358-5800
3200 N Central Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85012
Known for it’s modern American cuisine with a focus on wood-fired pizzas and pastas.
THE KEG MANSION
4.7-star Google Review Rating (480) 947-4747
7111 E Camelback Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s prime steaks and chops, as well as seafood dishes and classic sides.
POSTINO WINECAFE - BILTMORE
4.7-star Google Review Rating (602) 381-8800
2423 E Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85016
Known for it’s bruschetta, charcuterie, and an extensive wine list.
THE MISSION
4.6-star Google Review Rating (480) 686-0400
3815 N Brown Ave. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s Mexican cuisine with a modern twist and a focus on seasonal ingredients.
DOMINICK’S STEAKHOUSE
4.6-star Google Review Rating (480) 487-9797
17071 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s prime steaks and chops, as well as seafood dishes and classic sides.
THE CAPITAL GRILLE
4.6-star Google Review Rating (480) 941-8200
4999 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s dry-aged steaks and chops, as well as seafood dishes and classic sides.
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB
4.5-star Google Review Rating (480) 991-8100
8125 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s fresh seafood and an extensive wine list.
SALT RIVER GRILL
4.5-star Google Review Rating (480) 659-7732
7222 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and a Southwestern influence.
TOP OF THE ROCK RESTAURANT
4.4-star Google Review Rating (480) 424-8288
2000 W Westcourt Way Tempe, AZ 85281
Known for it’s rotating views of the Phoenix metropolitan area and elevated American cuisine.
ATLAS BISTRO
4.8-star Google Review Rating (480) 946-6225
7109 E Camelback Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s modern American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
CAFE MONARCH
4.8-star Google Review Rating (480) 970-7682
6939 E 1st Ave. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s fine dining with a focus on classic American cuisine with a global twist.
VIRTU HONEST CRAFT
4.6-star Google Review Rating (480) 421-6353
3717 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s modern Italian cuisine with a focus on house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas.
SALT CELLAR RESTAURANT
4.5-star Google Review Rating (480) 941-4166
4390 N 75th St. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s American cuisine with a focus on seafood and Southwestern influences.
NOBUO AT TEETER HOUSE
4.8-star Google Review Rating (480) 947-2213
622 E Adams St. Phoenix, AZ 85004
Known for it’s omakase and sushi menus from renowned chef Nobuo Matsuhisa.
THE HENRY
4.7-star Google Review Rating (480) 421-4100 24 W Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85013
Known for it’s New American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients & a wine list with over 200 selections.
ZUZU AT HOTEL VALLEY HO
4.6-star Google Review Rating (480) 282-3100 4432 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s American cuisine with a focus on Southwestern influences and a lively atmosphere.
OCEAN PRIME
4.5-star Google Review Rating (480) 947-5400
7022 E Camelback Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s seafood & extensive wine list.
EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD
4.5-star Google Review Rating (480) 947-3223
6937 E Camelback Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for it’s seafood dishes and extensive wine list.
SEL
4.5-star Google Review Rating (480) 949-6296
7044 E Main St. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for its modern American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative cocktails.
ROKA AKOR SCOTTSDALE
4.5-star Google Review Rating (480) 308-8668
7277 E Camelback Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Known for its Japanese cuisine with a focus on robata-grilled meats and seafood.
Power Up On Superfoods
Supercharge your health with nutrient-rich superfoods. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these natural wonders boost energy, support immunity, and enhance overall well-being. From berries to greens, these dietary powerhouses aid in disease prevention. Enjoy kale-blueberry smoothies and quinoa-avocado salads for a delicious health boost.
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO KNOW ABOUT SUPERFOODS IS THAT THEY ARE NOT MAGICAL OR A STANDALONE SOLUTION TO PERFECT HEALTH. WHILE THEY ARE NUTRIENT-DENSE AND OFFER VARIOUS HEALTH BENEFITS, THEY ARE MOST EFFECTIVE WHEN INTEGRATED INTO A BALANCED AND VARIED DIET. SUPERFOODS CAN COMPLEMENT A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE, BUT THEY SHOULD BE PART OF AN OVERALL APPROACH THAT INCLUDES REGULAR EXERCISE, HYDRATION, AND OTHER ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS OF WELL-BEING. CONSUMING A DIVERSE RANGE OF NUTRIENT-RICH FOODS IS KEY TO MAINTAINING GOOD HEALTH.
Superfoods are celebrated as nutritional powerhouses, prized for their exceptional health benefits stemming from a rich bounty of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and a wide array of other vital nutrients. These extraordinary foods, renowned for their ability to supercharge well-being, provide a nourishing embrace for our bodies. Some of the most recognizable superfoods have garnered admiration and acclaim for their remarkable nutritional profiles and their potential to significantly enhance our health and vitality.
Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are high in healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients.
Salmon: Fatty fish like salmon are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are heart-healthy.
Turmeric: This spice contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound.
Avocado: Avocado is known for its healthy fats and various nutrients, including potassium.
Quinoa: A nutrient-rich grain high in protein and fiber.
Broccoli: A cruciferous vegetable rich in vitamins and fiber.
Sweet Potatoes: These are packed with vitamins, especially beta-carotene.
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are high in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Green Tea: Known for its antioxidants and potential health benefits.
Cacao: Dark chocolate or raw cacao is rich in antioxidants and can be beneficial in moderation.
Spirulina: A blue-green algae that is a source of various nutrients and considered a superfood.
Acai: These berries are high in antioxidants and are often found in smoothie bowls.
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and digestive benefits.
Garlic: Garlic has various health benefits, including immune system support.
Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein and essential nutrients.
Yogurt: Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics and protein.
Bee Pollen: It’s nutrient-dense and a source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Honey: Raw, unprocessed honey is considered a superfood due to its antioxidants and potential health benefits.
Rabbit Cassoulet
RECIPEHumor
INSTRUCTIONS:
Start by soaking the dried beans in cold water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans the next day.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Season the rabbit pieces with salt and black pepper. Brown the rabbit pieces in the same pot with the bacon fat, turning them to ensure even browning. Remove the rabbit pieces and set them aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant.
For local Phoenicians who have been overrun by the local rabbit population, we suggest you embrace your new furry neighbors, but if they become too cumbersome, just remember that our Rabbit Cassoulet is best enjoyed with friends, family, and a sprinkling of crispy breadcrumbs.
INGREDIENTS:
1 whole rabbit, cut into serving pieces
1 pound dried white beans
4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 bay leaves
4 sprigs fresh thyme
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup dry white wine
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons olive oil
Return the bacon and rabbit pieces to the pot, along with the soaked and drained beans, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs.
Pour in the chicken broth and white wine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the rabbit is tender and the beans are cooked.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and olive oil.
Transfer the rabbit and bean mixture to a large baking dish or casserole. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top.
Place the cassoulet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping becomes golden brown and crispy.
Serve your delicious Rabbit Cassoulet hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Yes, the rabbits native to Phoenix, Arizona, such as the Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) and Desert Cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii), are edible. While many people do hunt and eat wild rabbits, there are important considerations to keep in mind:
Hunting Regulations: If you plan to hunt rabbits in Phoenix or anywhere else, it’s crucial to adhere to local and state hunting regulations. Ensure you have the necessary permits and follow hunting seasons and bag limits to protect wildlife populations and their habitats.
Safety: If you’re not experienced in hunting or butchering rabbits, it’s essential to learn proper techniques to ensure the safety and quality of the meat.
Health Concerns: Always cook rabbit meat thoroughly to avoid potential health risks. Wild rabbits can carry diseases and parasites, so proper cooking is crucial to eliminate any potential health hazards.
Sustainability: If you’re hunting wild rabbits, it’s important to do so sustainably and ethically, respecting the local ecosystem and wildlife conservation efforts. While some people do consume wild rabbits, it’s essential to do so responsibly, legally, and with a commitment to maintaining ecological balance and wildlife conservation. If you’re new to hunting or preparing wild game, it’s advisable to seek guidance from experienced hunters or butchers to ensure safe and ethical practices.
INGREDIENTS:
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, prebrowned and sliced into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon erythritol (or a low-carb sweetener of your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 5 dried chili peppers(adjust to your spice preference) 1/4 cup unsalted peanuts
For the Sauce:
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or a low-sodium alternative)
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon erythritol (or a low-carb sweetener of your choice)
For Garnish:
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds
Chopped red bell pepper
HEALTHY Treats
Low Carb Kung Pao Chicken
This Low Carb Kung Pao Chicken recipe offers a delicious twist on a Chinese classic while keeping it keto-friendly. Pre-browned and sliced chicken thighs make preparation a breeze, and the savory and slightly spicy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crunchy peanuts. Served with a side of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables,
INSTRUCTIONS:
Begin by pre-browning and slicing the chicken thighs into bitesized pieces. This will save cooking time later.
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and erythritol. This will be your marinade for the chicken.
Place the pre-browned and sliced chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for about 20-30 minutes.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add the marinated and pre-browned chicken to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and slightly browned.
While the chicken is cooking, mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and erythritol.
Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Add the unsalted peanuts to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken.
Remove the Kung Pao Chicken from the heat.
Garnish with sliced green onions red bell pepper and sesame seeds.
Serve your delicious healthy Low Carb Kung Pao Chicken with cauliflower rice or a side of steamed quinoa for a complete, lowcarb meal..
Low-Carb Avocado Caprese Salad
This low-carb take on the classic Caprese salad incorporates creamy avocado for added richness and a delightful twist on flavors. It’s a refreshing and healthy option for those looking to enjoy a light and satisfying dish without the carbs. Here’s how to make it:
INGREDIENTS:
2 ripe avocados, sliced and grilled & cooled
14 heritage cherry tomatoes, halved
8-10 fresh basil leaves
4 oz (about 1 cup) fresh mozzarella balls halved
2 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
Arrange the sliced avocados, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella cheese on a serving platter in an alternating pattern.
Tuck fresh basil leaves in between the avocado, tomato, and mozzarella slices for an appealing presentation.
Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the salad. If desired, you can also add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Season the salad with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve your low-carb Avocado Caprese Salad immediately as a refreshing appetizer or side dish, perfect for enjoying the bright and vibrant flavors of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Organic Vegan Vegetable Pizza
Are you craving a healthy, organic, and entirely vegan pizza that satisfies your gourmet cravings and your commitment to vegetarian and ecoconscious living? Look no further! This homemade Whole Wheat Vegetable Pizza recipe combines the goodness of fresh, organic ingredients, all served on a wholesome whole wheat pastry. Let’s dive into this flavorful and nutrient-rich creation.
INGREDIENTS:
Crust
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
1 cup lukewarm water
1 packet active dry yeast
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
Toppings:
1 cup organic cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup organic white mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 organic carrot, thinly sliced
1 small organic onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup organic sweetcorn kernels
1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup pearl onions, peeled and halved
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
HEALTHY Treats
INSTRUCTIONS:
For the Whole Wheat Pastry:
In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets frothy.
Add the whole wheat flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until it forms a dough. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Grease a bowl with a teaspoon of olive oil, place the dough inside, cover with a clean cloth, and allow it to rise for an hour or until it doubles in size.
Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
Roll out the dough into a circle to fit your pizza tray. Place it on the tray and press it to the edges.
For the Toppings:
Brush the pizza base with olive oil and sprinkle it with salt and black pepper.
Evenly distribute the sliced white mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, carrot, sweetcorn kernels, pearl onions, and green olives over the pizza base.
Drizzle a little more olive oil on top for extra flavor.
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the vegetables are tender.
PRESENTATION:
Cut your organic vegan vegetable pizza into portions and serve it up on a plate. The high-angle view of this colorful and mouthwatering creation makes for a captivating food photography subject, even without any people in the frame.
Enjoy the scrumptious combination of organic, vegan, and gourmet ingredients, all atop a wholesome whole wheat pastry. This vegetarian pizza is a celebration of flavor, freshness, and healthy eating, proving that delicious and eco-conscious food can go hand in hand.
Indulge in the artistry of cuisine with Sur La Table, a culinary haven celebrated by kitchen connoisseurs and aspiring chefs. In the pages of Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine, we unveil the gateway to a world of gastronomic excellence. Immerse yourself in an array of top shelf cookware, baking essentials, and culinary treasures carefully curated by Sur La Table. https://www.surlatable.com
Scottsdale Store
Kierland Commons
7122 E Greenway Pkwy
Suite #100
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(480) 998-0118
Store hours
Monday 10:00am - 8:00pm Tuesday 10:00am - 8:00pm
Wednesday 10:00am - 8:00pm
Thursday 10:00am - 8:00pm
Friday 10:00am - 8:00pm
Saturday 10:00am - 8:00pm
Sunday 11:00am - 6:00pm
Low-Carb Chocolate Decadence Cupcakes
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of these low-carb cupcakes without all of the guilt. These treats are perfect for those seeking a lower-carb dessert option while satisfying their sweet tooth. Here’s how to make these delightful Chocolate Decadence Cupcakes:
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE CUPCAKES:
1/2 cup almond flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup granulated stevia or monk-fruit
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
3 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
FOR THE CHOCOLATE GANACHE:
2 oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp granulated low-carb sweetener
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
HEALTHY Treats
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
For the Cupcakes:
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, low-carb sweetener, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring until well combined.
Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups.
Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Chocolate Ganache:
Let cupcakes cool first. In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, heat the heavy cream on low to medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling.
Add the chopped unsweetened chocolate and let it sit for a minute to melt. Stir until smooth.
Mix in the low-carb sweetener and vanilla extract until the ganache is glossy and well combined.
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top of each cupcake.
Let the ganache set for a few minutes, and then your low-carb Chocolate Decadence Cupcakes are ready to enjoy.
Get ready to deck the halls and light up your holiday season with our festive section. From scrumptious Christmas cookie recipes that will leave your taste buds dancing to tips on setting the perfect holiday table that would make even Santa envious. We’ve got all the ingredients for a jolly celebration, including delightful holiday drink recipes and so much more. So grab your Santa hat, and let’s unwrap the magic of the season!
Santa’s Little Helper: Unwrapping the Merry Mayhem of Christmas!
Juniper Christmas Cookies
These cookies have a unique, slightly piney flavor thanks to juniper berries, making them perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dried juniper berries, crushed or finely chopped
Place 2 tablespoons of dried juniper berries in 1/2 cup of milk. Heat the milk in a small saucepan until it’s hot but not boiling. Remove from heat, cover, and let it steep for about 15 minutes.
Strain the milk to remove the juniper berries. You’ll use this juniper-infused milk in the glaze.
Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, crushed juniper berries, and orange zest.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the dough is firm.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll and Cut:
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
Juniper Glaze:
While the cookies are cooling, make the juniper glaze. In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar, juniper-infused milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until you have a smooth glaze.
Glaze the Cookies:
Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the juniper glaze over them.
You can also garnish with a few additional crushed juniper berries for extra flavor and decoration.
Let It Set:
Allow the glaze to set before serving.
These Juniper Christmas Cookies have a delightful and unique flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season. Enjoy!
Classic Gingerbread Cookies
These gingerbread Christmas cookies are a delightful combination of warm spices, including ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, creating a rich and aromatic flavor. Their tender, molasses-infused texture, along with the option to decorate with royal icing, makes them a beloved holiday treat that’s both delicious and festive.
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Royal Icing (optional):
2 large egg whites
2-3 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (for flavor and stability)
Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
For the Cookie Dough:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well.
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. The dough will be soft.
Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until it’s firm enough to roll out.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are slightly firm.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For Royal Icing (optional):
In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until they are frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and lemon juice, mixing until the icing is smooth and glossy. You may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve the desired consistency. If you want to color the icing, add food coloring as needed.
Transfer the royal icing to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off for decorating.
Decorate the cooled gingerbread cookies with the royal icing as desired. Allow the icing to set before storing or serving. These gingerbread Christmas cookies are a holiday favorite and are perfect for decorating with your favorite icing and sprinkles. Enjoy!
Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies have a unique, slightly piney flavor thanks to juniper berries, making them perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Festive red and green sprinkles (for Christmas touch)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using).
Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. For a festive touch, press a few red and green sprinkles onto the tops of the cookies.
Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still slightly soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Once cooled, store the Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container, and enjoy!
These Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful and classic treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.
“Cookies
for santa!”
Well, it seems Dasher and Blitzen might have taken their love for Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies a bit too far this year! Those speedy reindeer might have gotten a little too carried away with their midnight snack, leading to quite the holiday hiccup. Instead of a graceful takeoff, we might see Santa’s sleigh in the driveway this year as the reindeer take a well-deserved nap from their sugar-induced adventures.
Let’s hope Santa left some extra carrots out for them to counter balance the cookie overload, or Christmas morning might have a slightly different and comically slow start!
Cowboy Cookies
Santa adores cowboy cookies! He eagerly looks forward to savoring these hearty, sweet treats left out by thoughtful children on Christmas Eve. It’s not just their irresistible flavor; they embody the spirit of giving and the warmth of the holiday season. Santa’s love for cowboy cookies is a delicious tradition.
Ingredients:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
TIPS:
Use Parchment Paper or Silpat: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a Silpat mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Properly Space Cookies: Leave enough space between cookies on the baking sheet to allow for spreading. Usually, 2 inches apart is a safe bet.
Experiment and Have Fun: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different add-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, etc.) and flavors (vanilla, spices, extracts). Baking should be fun, so get creative!
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Stir in the old-fashioned oats, chocolate chips, chopped nuts (if using), and sweetened shredded coconut. The dough should be thick and chunky.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still slightly soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Once cooled, store the cowboy cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
These cowboy cookies are packed with a variety of flavors and textures, making them a favorite for those who enjoy a hearty and satisfying treat. Enjoy!
Christmas in England
by Brenda Williams
Table
AAt this festive time of year, most families use this time to gather together and have fun. The table settings for these special occasions are usually formal with few decorations on the table, mainly candles or fresh cut flowers. Traditional Christmas crackers are also used as table decorations. These add to the festive occasion, with the loud snap as party hats fly everywhere and people scramble to pick up their prizes and jokes!
Food served for the starter course is either salad or fish, soup, followed by either Turkey or Duck, with traditional stuffing; either Thyme & Parsley, Chestnut or Cranberry. Mashed and Roast potatoes, vegetables, including roasted celery, roasted carrots and parsnips. Accompanied by gravy or a celery sauce. For dessert the traditional Christmas Plum Pudding is served complete with brandy or rum sauce or brandy butter hard sauce. All of this is then followed with cheese and crackers and fruit.
The meal is usually served around 1p.m. just after the Queen’s speech. At approximately 6 p.m. tea is served and this is not a formal meal, this is the time of day when trifle is served!
After such a hectic day of opening presents and eating, sit back and take a nap!
Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childhood days, recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth, and transport the traveler back to his own fireside and quiet home.
-Charles Dickens
wrapping the Merry Mayhem of Christmas !
The Art of Gift Wrapping: A How-To Guide
STEP BY STEP
Measure and Cut: Place your gift on the wrapping paper and ensure you have enough to cover it. Leave an extra 2-3 inches on each side. Cut the paper accordingly.
Center the Gift: Place the gift box upside down in the center of the paper. Fold one side of the wrapping paper over the gift and tape it down.
Fold the Ends: Fold in the sides of the wrapping paper to create neat triangular flaps on both ends. Fold the top flap down and secure it with tape. Repeat this on the other side.
Wrapping a gift is like dressing up a surprise; it’s all about the presentation and a bit of showmanship. So, grab your wrapping paper and let’s add a touch of pizzazz to your gift giving!
GATHER YOUR ARSENAL:
Wrapping Paper: Find one that’s as fun as the gift inside. Bold colors or patterns are your go-to.
Scissors: Sharp as wit for precise cuts.
Tape or Stickiness: Clear tape or double-sided tape, whichever sticks your fancy.
Ribbons and Bows: Because everything’s better with a bow on top!
Gift Tags or Labels: For that personal touch – witty messages encouraged!
Then, pull the other side tightly & secure it with tape, while ensuring the paper is snug but not too tight. –It’s like a gift hug!
FIVE STEPS TO MAKE A SIMPLE BOW FOR A GIFT
Wrap a 2 foot length of ribbon around the knuckles of your hand loosely
Then, pull the ribbon off of your hand without disturbing the structure of the loops
Fold in half & cutt two small corners out of the ribbon at the fold to ease tying, then tie it with a string or a length of ribbon that is long enough to wrap around the center of the package or double the length to go around all sides of the box
Fluff by separating and twisting the loops of ribbon, and then attach to gift
World Class Golf Destinations
ARIZONA HAS SO MANY TO CHOOSE FROM!
by Alex Ferri
COYOTE LAKES GOLF CLUB $$
A round at Coyote Lakes Golf Club in Surprise is no walk in the park. A challenging course, it has many different slopes and curves, several water hazards, and small greens. While great for the more experienced golfer, it is also an opportunity for less seasoned players to challenge themselves. Natural desert landscape and rolling sand dunes surround four lakes at the course, which also boasts an outdoor fireplace and barbecue. If hunger strikes midway through a game, food can be ordered from a golf cart and picked up after the 18th hole at the Coyote Grill. www.coyotelakesgolfclub.com
PALM VALLEY GOLF CLUB $$$
Originally designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills, Palm Valley Golf Club in Goodyear features two separate 18-hole plains courses that cater to all skill levels. The Lakes course, with a par of 62, is great for beginners or for experts looking for a quicker game. Those looking for a challenge can try their luck at the Palms course, with a par of 72. Cited by Phoenix Business Journal as one of the best public courses in the state, Palm Valley Golf Club’s versatility is unmatched. www.palmvalleygolf.com
COUNTRY MEADOWS GOLF CLUB $$
Country Meadows Golf Club in Peoria is a great place for beginners to learn the game, although more experienced golfers find their games enjoyable as well. A shorter course, each game averages about three hours in length, allowing plenty of time for other activities in the day. Country Meadows also employs a former San Diego Golf Academy graduate to teach golf lessons. Couple rates for lessons are available, as are online discounts for tee times. www.countrymeadows.us
THE BOULDERS CLUB $$
The Boulders Club is nestled in the tranquil beauty of the high Sonoran desert and 12-million year old granite boulder formations that dot the landscape. From the ancient Indians to the modern day vacationers who come to back in the peace of a spectacular natural setting, all have been drawn to the vast serenity of the terrain and the precariously balanced boulders silhouetted against the Sonoran sky. Travel and Leisure Golf ranked the Boulders as the #1 regional golf resort in the Southwest for two consecutive years. www.bouldersclub.com
ASU KARSTEN GOLF COURSE
$$$
Home to Arizona State University’s golf team, is located in Tempe, just ten minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport. Despite being in Arizona, the course is surrounded by grass instead of desert, which makes for a more forgiving playing environment. Karsten is nationally renowned, being given four-and-a-half stars in Golf Digests’ “Best Places to Play.” With rolling hills and mounds, Karsten offers four sets of tees for all skill levels, ranging from beginner to professional. www.asukarsten.com
THE 500 CLUB $$
At The 500 Club, the only house within sight is the clubhouse. Located in North Glendale, it can take a bit of a drive to reach, but for golfers who enjoy a peaceful, secluded course, it is definitely worth it. Far away from the busy city, The 500 Club gives its guests three choices for difficulty: beginner, regular, and professional. Each cart is equipped with free GPS, and after a long round of golf, visitors can dine at the cozy restaurant and patio. Guests staying at select resorts can receive discounted rounds of golf. www.the500club.com
CROSSWOODS INDOOR GOLF $
Visitors looking for a new golf experience need to look no further than Crosswoods Indoor Golf in Chandler, south of Tempe. Crosswoods offers virtual golfing at a completely indoor facility, outside of the Arizona sun. Great for beginners, golfers both drive and putt at a screen, which then simulates their hit with amazing accuracy. Virtual golf is a great way for golfers to improve their game, since it gives instant feedback and analysis after each hit. www.crosswoodsgolf.com
PAPAGO GOLF CLUB $$$
Established in 1963, Papago Golf Club is a premier public golf course featuring an 18-hole championship layout. Beyond its stunning greens, it serves as a popular wedding venue. The clubhouse boasts a vibrant bar and grill, offering a delightful dining experience amidst picturesque views. Papago Golf Club is renowned for its challenging yet scenic course design. Its strategic layout incorporates desert landscapes and stunning views of Papago Buttes and Camelback Mountain, providing an unforgettable golfing experience. 5595 E Karsten Way, Phoenix, AZ 85008 https://www.papagogolfclub.com
Phone number: 602-277-7261
Hours: 5:30 AM - 9:00 PM
GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE $$
The Grand Canyon University Championship Golf Course offers an exceptional 18-hole public golfing experience. The modern clubhouse stands out with its excellent restaurant, a well-stocked bar, a pro shop for golf enthusiasts, and event spaces for various occasions. This golf course, situated within the Grand Canyon University campus, presents a challenging layout amidst serene surroundings. The clubhouse amenities complement the golfing experience, providing relaxation and social opportunities after a round of golf. 5902 W Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85033, https://gcugolf.com
Phone number: 602-607-7648
Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
PALO VERDE GOLF COURSE $
Palo Verde Golf Course is a welcoming 9-hole course open year-round to the public. Alongside its accessible layout, it offers a well-stocked golf shop and rental clubs for players of all levels. Despite being a 9-hole course, Palo Verde provides an enjoyable golfing experience suitable for beginners and seasoned players. Its convenient location and amenities make it an ideal choice for a casual round of golf.
6215 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85015 https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/golf/phoenix-golf-courses/ palo-verde
Phone number: +1 602-240-6779
Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
ARIZONA BILTMORE GOLF CLUB $$$
Arizona Biltmore Golf Club boasts two exceptional 18hole courses, a comprehensive driving range, golf lessons, footgolf facilities, and a restaurant offering delectable dining options. This historic golf club, located near the Arizona Biltmore Hotel, offers a luxurious golfing experience with meticulously maintained courses and top-notch facilities, making it a favorite among golf aficionados.
Cave Creek Golf Course, maintained by the city, provides a scenic golfing experience with panoramic views of the surrounding mountainside. Nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes, Cave Creek Golf Course offers an enjoyable golfing atmosphere with challenging holes and beautiful vistas, making it a serene escape for golfers seeking a peaceful round.
For Arizona golfers, the sprawling fairways and serene landscapes of the state’s courses offer a haven for perfecting their swing. Yet, mastering the game of golf requires more than just an eye for the green—it demands a finely tuned physique and precise conditioning. While golf might seem like a leisurely sport, it calls for a delicate fusion of strength, flexibility, and endurance, especially in the unique landscape of Arizona’s golf courses.
UNDERSTANDING THE PHYSICAL RIGORS OF GOLF
Our picturesque courses belie the physical challenges they pose. Every golfer, whether amateur or seasoned pro, experiences the intricacies of the game’s demands. The golf swing itself, a symphony of movement, calls upon core stability, flexible hips and shoulders, and strength in the legs and back. It’s a dance of power and control, requiring balance and precision for consistent, accurate shots. Moreover, walking Arizona’s courses can mean traversing diverse terrains and elevations, putting a premium on endurance—essential for enduring those multi-day tournaments or extended rounds.
THE IMPACT OF PHYSICAL FITNESS
Fitness isn’t just a sidekick in golf—it’s the driving force behind a golfer’s prowess on the course. A body in peak condition reaps benefits in terms of power, control, and overall game improvement. Golf-specific fitness routines cater to several pivotal aspects:
In the sun-drenched haven of Arizona, golfers revel in the sprawling greens and serene landscapes that grace the state’s renowned courses. Yet, amidst the beauty lies a challenging sport that demands far more than meets the eye. Mastering the game of golf isn’t solely about precision; it requires a finely tuned physique and focused conditioning. Let’s explore how Arizona’s golfers can optimize their game through physical fitness, focusing on the crucial elements that redefine their performance on the greens.
Arizona’s golf courses boast diverse terrains, from desert layouts with undulating fairways to elevated greens against stunning backdrops. These landscapes demand a golfer’s body to adapt to various movements, making flexibility a non-negotiable asset. Flexibility allows for a fuller swing range, enabling golfers to execute their shots with grace and ease. Yoga and Pilates sessions tailored for golfers aid in enhancing flexibility, targeting muscle groups essential for the golf swing. Stretching routines designed to increase hip and shoulder mobility prove instrumental in navigating the diverse challenges posed by Arizona’s golf courses.
2. STRENGTH: POWER WITHOUT BULK FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE
Strength, a cornerstone of golf fitness, isn’t about bulking up but about cultivating power in the right places. Arizona’s best golfers benefit greatly from targeted strength training routines that bolster essential muscle groups. The core, which is a golfing powerhouse, demands strength to maintain stability and generate torque during the swing. Focused workouts on the legs and back cultivate the force necessary for driving the ball across fairways adorned with natural hazards. Arizona’s unique landscape, including hilly terrain, necessitates leg strength for traversing the course. Specific exercises, such as squats, lunges, and rotational movements, develop the strength needed for optimal performance on varied terrains.
3. STABILITY AND BALANCE: A STEADY FOUNDATION FOR PRECISION
In Arizona’s changing course environments, stability and balance become paramount for executing a consistent and controlled swing. Golfers rely on a sturdy foundation to navigate through uneven terrains and elevate their game on challenging shots Exercises that enhance stability, such as single-leg movements & balance exercises, fortify the core and leg muscles, promoting an improved swing tempo and shot accuracy. Arizona’s golfers gain a competitive edge as they fine-tune their balance and stability, ensuring better control over their shots regardless of the course’s layout.
Endurance is the unsung hero on Arizona’s vast golf courses, where rounds often span long distances, and multi-day tournaments challenge a golfer’s stamina. Building endurance is critical for maintaining peak performance throughout the duration of a round. Arizona’s golfers benefit significantly from cardio workouts that enhance overall fitness and stamina. Brisk walking or jogging sessions not only condition the body but also cultivate the mental endurance required to stay focused and sharp amidst the sprawling greens and breathtaking vistas.
A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO GOLF FITNESS
In conclusion, Arizona’s golfers benefit immensely from a holistic fitness approach that targets flexibility, strength, stability, and endurance. The synergy between these pivotal aspects ensures a golfer’s body is finely tuned to conquer the diverse challenges posed by the state’s acclaimed golf courses. By integrating golf-specific fitness routines into their training regimen, Arizona’s golf enthusiasts can elevate their game, minimize the risk of injuries, and relish the sheer joy of navigating the greens with finesse and confidence. After all, in the vibrant world of golf, a well-conditioned body stands as the key to unlocking the full potential of the game.
While professionals tailor fitness routines to their unique needs, Arizona’s amateur golfers can benefit from specialized fitness regimens too. Designed specifically for golfers, these routines encompass:
Yoga or Pilates for flexibility
Strength training targeting core and upper body
Stability exercises utilizing resistance bands and bodyweight movements
Cardio workouts like walking or jogging for endurance
GUARDING AGAINST INJURIES
Fitness isn’t only about performance—it’s about your longevity on the greens. Golf-specific physical fitness routines aid in injury prevention by addressing direct muscle imbalances, enhancing joint health, additionally strengthening stabilizing muscles. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of common golf-related injuries, ensuring more time on the course and fewer days on the sidelines.
For Arizona’s golf aficionados, the key to a better game lies not just in technique but in physical fitness. By dedicating time to golf-specific conditioning, Arizona golfers—whether tackling a tricky slope or teeing off in a tournament—can elevate their game, prevent injuries, and relish the beauty of golfing in the Grand Canyon State to the fullest. Because in the world of golf, a well-conditioned body isn’t just an asset—it’s the secret to conquering the course.
PARKFIT: TOTAL-BODY WORKOUTS WITH SUSPENSION STRAPS AT THE PLAYGROUND
By Rick Rome
Using suspension straps (like TRX or similar equipment) at a public park jungle gym is an excellent way to incorporate bodyweight exercises for a full-body workout. Here are some workout moves you can perform:
Suspension Strap Rows:
Stand facing the anchor point, hold the straps, lean back with your body at an angle, and engage your back muscles to pull your chest up to the handles.
Suspension Strap Push-Ups:
Set the straps to hang at waist height, place your hands in the handles, and perform push-ups by leaning forward at an angle. Adjust the angle to increase or decrease the difficulty.
Suspension Strap Squats:
Face the anchor point, hold the straps with your arms extended, and squat down while keeping your arms extended. The straps provide balance and stability.
Suspension Strap Lunges:
Hold the straps with your arms extended, step one leg back, and perform lunges. The straps assist in maintaining balance and form.
Suspension Strap Planks:
With your feet in the straps and your hands on the ground, assume a plank position. This exercise adds an extra challenge to your core and stability.
Suspension Strap Pike:
Begin in a plank position with your feet in the straps. Engage your core and lift your hips upward to create a pike position. Lower your hips back to the starting plank position.
Suspension Strap Bicep Curls:
Stand facing the anchor point, grip the handles, and perform bicep curls by flexing your elbows. Adjust your body angle to increase or decrease resistance.
Suspension Strap Tricep Extensions:
Face away from the anchor point, hold the straps, and perform tricep extensions by extending your arms behind you.
Suspension Strap Leg Raises:
Lie on your back, hold the straps, and lift your legs while keeping your upper body on the ground. This works your core and lower abdominal muscles.
Suspension Strap Bicep Curls:
Suspension Strap Tricep Extensions:
Utilizing the local park’s jungle gym for tricep dips is a fantastic way to combine fitness and outdoor enjoyment. With the sturdy bars and ample space, you can easily target and strengthen your triceps. As you lower and raise your body, the serene surroundings provide a refreshing backdrop, making the workout not only effective but also a delightful experience.
G LEN DALE C O NVENTION & VISI T O R S BURE A U
Shopping, dining, pro spor ts, festivals, concer ts and live enter tainment. Let us help you plan your nex t West Valley adventure.
Suspension Strap Assisted Squat Jumps:
Stand facing the anchor point, hold the straps for balance, and perform squat jumps with the assistance of the straps for extra stability.
Suspension Strap Chest Flyes:
Set the straps at chest height, facing away from the anchor point, and perform chest flyes by bringing your hands together in front of your chest.
Suspension Strap Mountain Climbers:
With your feet in the straps, get into a plank position, and alternate bringing your knees toward your chest, similar to a mountain climbing motion.
Suspension Strap Hip Abductions:
With the straps positioned at ankle height, attach them to your ankles, and stand facing the anchor point. Lift one leg sideways, working your hip abductors, and repeat on the other side.
Suspension Strap Hamstring Curls:
Lie on your back with your feet in the straps, and raise your hips off the ground. Bend your knees, pulling the straps towards your glutes, and then extend your legs back out.
Suspension Strap Oblique Twists:
Set the straps at chest height, hold the handles, and twist your body, engaging your oblique muscles as you rotate from side to side.
Suspension Strap Overhead Squats:
Face the anchor point, extend your arms overhead while holding the straps, and perform squats while keeping your arms extended.
Suspension Strap
Leg Press:
Sit or lie on the ground with your feet in the straps and perform leg presses by extending your legs outward.
Suspension Strap
Lateral Raises:
Face the anchor point, grip the handles, and perform lateral raises by lifting your arms out to the sides, working your shoulder muscles.
Suspension Strap
Calf Raises:
Stand facing the anchor point, hold the straps for balance, and perform calf raises by rising onto your toes.
Suspension Strap
Reverse Lunges:
Stand facing the anchor point, step back into a lunge, and use the straps for balance and assistance.
Suspension Strap Chest Flyes:
These exercises offer a wide range of options to target various muscle groups and create a diverse and effective full-body workout using suspension straps at a public park jungle gym. Remember to adjust the strap length and difficulty to match your fitness level and exercise goals.
When using suspension straps, it’s essential to ensure they are properly anchored, and you maintain good form to prevent injury. Adjust the strap length to change the exercise intensity. Always warm up before starting your workout, and cool down afterward to promote flexibility and recovery.
Arizona Hiking Guide
48TH STREET TRAIL
2 miles
This trail is a 2 mile multi-use path that runs parallel to N. 48th St. in Phoenix. It is a useful resource for the community, connecting nearby residences to schools, recreation facilities & shopping.
67TH AVENUE TRAIL
.5 miles
This short trail parallels N 67th Avenue in Glendale, along a portion of the Thunderbird Recreation Area. The trail provides a connection between nearby residences and educational facilities. Crossing 67th Avenue gives users access to the Hillcrest Ranch Trail.
AZ-51 TRAIL - PHX
5.2 miles
The AZ-51 Trail parallels Arizona Route 51/Piestewa Freeway on a paved route between Reach 11 Recreation Area and the golf course at E. Cactus Road near N. 42nd Street. The trail provides access to surrounding communities, county government facilities, schools, neighborhoods, hospitals and numerous parks and businesses.
APACHE RAILROAD TRAIL
19 miles
The entire trail follows an historic railroad route offering gentle trail grades and beautiful scenery. Formerly the railroad hauled logs from various parts of the Apache National Forest and the White Mountain Apache Reservation and later hauled tourists from McNary on a tour of the White Mountains. It has been unused for 3 decades.
ARROYO TRAIL
.3 miles
The Arroyo Trail is a short trail from the Pine Knoll Trail at Pine Knoll Dr. to the north side of I-40 in Flagstaff.
AZ CANAL TRAIL
16 miles
The Arizona Canal Trail is one of the longer multi-use trails in Maricopa County. This trail runs for 16 miles between Phoenix and Peoria along the Arizona Canal, one of the counties vital waterways. The trail is largely continuous along a number of parallel pathsways adjacent to the concrete-lined channel. It provides access to a large number of residences, commercial centers, schools and other recreational opportunities.
ARIZONA TRAIL
817 miles
The Arizona Trail stretches 817 miles across the state of Arizona (north–south), from the Arizona–Utah border west of Lake Powell to the Arizona–Mexico border west of Bisbee. The trail traverses a wide diversity of terrain, passing among canyons, desert, mountains and forests and linking wilderness areas, towns and cities, historic sites and points of interest.
LITCHFIELD PARK / GOODYEAR TRAIL
3.3 miles
This trail serves to connect the communities of Litchfield Park and Goodyear, just outside of Phoenix. This utilitarian-style path parallels Indian School Rd. and Litchfield Rd., passing parks, business, and residences along the way.
QUEEN CREEK WASH TRAIL
2.3 miles
This trail has a more rural feel than other trails in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Located within the community of Queen Creek, and following the banks of Queen Creek Wash, this trail passes open space, farmland, and some smaller residential communities.
ROUTE 66 TRAIL
4.2 miles
The Route 66 Trail in Flagstaff begins in the heart of the beautiful historic downtown district right next to the picturesque Flagstaff Train Depot. Parking is available right along historic Route 66 at the visitor center adjacent to the trailhead.
SALT RIVER TRAIL
2.2 miles
This trail runs along the south bank of the Salt River in Tempe. The trail connects the Arizona State University Tempe Campus with a number of parks. The trail offers a nice recreational respite of residence of the metropolitan area.
SHEA BOULEVARD TRAIL
3.5 miles
This trail runs parallel to Shea Boulevard in Scottsdale. The trail consists of two disconnected segments. The western segment has a much more suburban feel than the eastern segment, which is more rural. This trail provides a useful transportation and recreation corridor for the surrounding communities.
TEMPE CANAL TRAIL
7.4 miles
This trail parallels the Tempe Canal between Tempe and Mesa. The trail consists of two disconnected segments, both of which serve a large number of residents, businesses and public facilities.
