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Letter from the Editor
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
November is a month that naturally lends itself to reflection. The air turns cooler, the desert light softens to a silvery glow, and suddenly we’re reminded of how much there is to appreciate in the Catalina Foothills. It feels like the perfect season to pause, gather with loved ones, and simply say thank you.
In this issue, we celebrate the many ways thank fulness can enrich our lives. Take a walk along our local trails — from Sabino Canyon to Ventana Canyon — and discover how nature invites moments of calm and reflection. We explore the ways gratitude benefits not only our outlook but also our health, and we invite you to try incorporating our daily gratitude prompts into your routine.
We’re also sharing plenty of inspiration for your Thanksgiving table: delicious turkey and pie recipes, seasonal scents and color palettes to warm your home, and clever hosting hacks to make gatherings effortless and joyful. And we highlight the incredible work being done locally, including the Gospel Rescue Mission’s efforts to end homelessness, reminding us that gratitude also comes from giving back.
This issue is a celebration of community, connection, and the simple pleasures that make life in the Foothills so special. I hope it inspires you to pause, reflect, and share your own moments of thanks with family, friends, and yourself.
Thank you for reading and for being part of the community we cherish. May this season bring warmth, joy, and countless reasons to feel grateful.
With gratitude,
MEGAN EWING, EDITOR
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Jeff Herr | jeff.herr@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Ewing | megan.ewing@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Deborah Davis | deborah.davis@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Jessica Bush | jessica.bush@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Allison Ewing, Sybil Velarde
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rose Lindley English, Isaac Stockton
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Decadent
Learn
Back row left to right: Louise (Weezie) Greenwood, Mary Littlehorn, Isaiah Fiso, Dr. Carlos Rodriguez, Blaine Jensen, Dr. Michael Christopher, Bill Brennen; Front row left to right: Kelly Davis, Taylor Rock, Kristi Chase, Dr. Anthony Cervantes, Dr. Robyn Glaesser, Dr. Fiona Behr, Lindsay Terry, Erica Switzer
A Sweet Slice
DECADENT PIES BRING WARMTH, COMFORT, AND A LITTLE HOLIDAY MAGIC TO THE TABLE.
ARTICLE BY SYBIL VELARDE (ATSYBILSKITCHEN.COM)
No Thanksgiving is complete without a pie—or three. Whether you crave the nutty richness of a bourbon-kissed pecan, the spiced decadence of pumpkin praline, or the cozy charm of apples with caramel sauce, these pies are designed to impress. Beautiful to serve and even better to share, each slice is a celebration of the season’s sweetest traditions.
Pecan pie for the win!
Bourbon-Orange Pecan Pie with Bourbon Cream serves eight
INGREDIENTS
For the Butter Pie Crust Dough:
• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 1/2 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons ice water, plus more if needed
For the Pie:
• 1 butter pie crust
• 1 cup golden brown sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons candied orange peel
• 4 tablespoons bourbon, divided
• 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups pecan halves (about 9 1/2 ounces), toasted
For the Bourbon Cream:
• 1 cup chilled whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon bourbon
DIRECTIONS
For the Butter Pie Crust Dough:
In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add 3 tablespoons of water and pulse until moist clumps form, adding more water by 1/2 tablespoon if necessary. Gather the dough into a ball, flatten into a disk, and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Soften lightly at room temperature before rolling.
Directions for the Pie:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 13-inch round. Transfer to a 9-inch deepdish glass pie dish. Trim the overhang to 1/2 inch, fold it under, and crimp the edges decoratively. Refrigerate for 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Line the crust with foil and fill with dried beans or pie weights. Bake until the edges are lightly browned and the crust is set, about 17 minutes. Remove foil and weights, then bake until golden brown, about 5 minutes longer, pressing with the back of a fork if the crust bubbles. Leave the oven on.
In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter. Whisk in the eggs, one at a time. Stir in the candied orange peel, 3 tablespoons bourbon, grated orange peel, vanilla, salt, and pecans. Pour the filling into the crust and bake until the edges puff and the center is just set, about 50 minutes. Cool on a rack for at least 1 hour.
Meanwhile, beat the cream, sugar, and remaining tablespoon of bourbon with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature with a dollop of bourbon cream.
And, of course, fresh whipped cream.
Spiced Pumpkin Pie with Hazelnut Praline serves eight
INGREDIENTS
For the Praline:
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 1 1/4 cups hazelnuts (about 5 1/2 ounces), toasted, husked, coarsely chopped
For the Crust:
• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening, cut into 1/2inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons ice water, plus more as needed
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
For the Filling:
• 1 (15-ounce) can pure pumpkin
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup golden brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
• 2/3 cup chilled whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
DIRECTIONS
To make the praline, line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. In a small saucepan, combine the water and cream of tartar. Add sugar and stir over low heat until dissolved. Increase heat and boil without stirring until golden, about 11 minutes, occasionally brushing the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush. Stir in hazelnuts and pour onto the prepared sheet, spreading with a spatula. Cool completely, then break into chunks. Finely grind half of the praline in a food processor to use in the filling; reserve the rest for garnish.
For the crust, combine flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add shortening and butter; pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Transfer to a bowl. Mix the water and vinegar in a small bowl, then stir into the flour mixture until moist clumps form, adding more water if needed. Gather into a ball, flatten into a disk, wrap, and chill for 45 minutes.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a 14-inch circle. Transfer to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the overhang to 3/4 inch, fold under, and crimp edges. Freeze for 45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake the crust until edges begin to brown, about 12 minutes, pressing with a fork if bubbles form. Remove and reduce oven to 350°F.
For the filling, whisk the praline powder, pumpkin, and remaining ingredients together. Pour into the warm crust and bake until puffed at the edges and set in the center, about 45 minutes. Cool completely on a rack.
For the topping, whip cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Serve alongside the pie with praline chunks for garnish.
What kind of apples will you enshrine this month?
Apple Pie with Spiced Apple-Caramel Sauce serves eight
INGREDIENTS
For the Crust:
• 3 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) chilled butter, cut into small pieces
For the Filling and Assembly:
• 1/4 cup flour, plus more for dusting
• 3 pounds sweet-tart apples (such as Pink Lady), sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Spiced Apple-Caramel Sauce:
• 1 cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup cream
• 2 tablespoons Calvados
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
DIRECTIONS
For the crust, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a food processor. Add butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Transfer to a bowl and drizzle with 1/3 cup ice water, mixing with a fork until clumps form. Add more water as needed. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface to a 13-inch round and transfer to a pie dish, letting excess dough hang over. Chill until firm, about 20 minutes.
For the filling, toss apples with flour, sugars, vinegar, butter, and spices. Pour into the crust. Roll out the second disk into a 12-inch round and lay over the filling. Seal, trim, and crimp edges, then cut 5 slits in the top crust. Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon water and brush over the crust; sprinkle with sugar. Freeze for 15 minutes. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes. Reduce oven to 350°F, rotate the pie, and continue baking 50–60 minutes, until juices bubble and crust is golden. Cool for at least 4 hours before slicing.
For the caramel sauce, bring the sugar and 1/4 cup water to a boil in a saucepan. Cook without stirring until deep amber, 8–10 minutes, swirling the pan and brushing down sides with a wet brush. Reduce heat, add butter, and stir until smooth. Stir in cream, Calvados, and spices. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
From Homeless to Wholeness
Learn more about the remarkable work of Gospel Rescue Mission.
Located in the heart of Tucson, Gospel Rescue Mission has been serving the community since 1953. What began as a humble soup kitchen founded by Ray Chastain and his wife has grown into a mission-driven program dedicated to building brighter futures. Today, the mission offers a 12-month addiction recovery program, housing support, and workforce development with hands-on training in new skills and trades—along with warm beds, hot showers, fresh clothing, and other essentials that help residents work toward stability and self-sufficiency.
The organization’s motto, “from homelessness to wholeness,” is more than just words—it’s a lived reality for residents, staff, and volunteers alike. Randy, now an employee in guest services, first came to Gospel Rescue Mission as a resident. After completing the workforce housing program, he knew he wanted to give back to the place that, as he says, “saved his life.” His story is impactful, but not the only one of its kind; many graduates return to volunteer, work, or attend church, creating a powerful cycle of healing and hope.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON EWING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GOSPEL RESCUE MISSION
Walking through the facility, it’s easy to see that love and respect are at the heart of everything they do. Residents and staff greet one another by name, share warm smiles, and engage in friendly banter that makes the shelter feel more like a community than a program. Even mealtimes are designed to affirm dignity: rather than standing in line with a tray, residents are served at their tables, with staff clearing dishes afterward—offering what they call the “restaurant experience.”
Andrew, another former resident who still attends church services at Gospel Rescue Mission, shares a journey of resilience. Originally from Flint, Michigan, Andrew came to Arizona three years ago. After being hit by a car, his life spiraled as he faced addiction and legal troubles. “It turned me over to addiction, bad,” he recalls. Jail time was a turning point, and once he arrived at Gospel Rescue Mission, he immediately felt safe and was given the resources he needed to get back on his feet.
New residents go through a careful intake process to ensure safety for all—sober testing, background checks, a shower, fresh clothes, and their own bed. The next day begins with “Shelter 101,” an introduction to the rules and resources available. From there, employees guide residents through personalized programs that build toward stability, teaching new skills and trade work. When residents are ready to move out, community donations help furnish their new apartments with everything from food and clothing to furniture and appliances, ensuring a successful fresh start.
Today, Andrew is thriving and reunited with his family. “The company you get here is fantastic… we’re heading towards the same goals,” he says. Stories like his illustrate why
Gospel Rescue Mission is recognized as a model for shelters across the country. Not only do they offer things like warm meals and a place to sleep, but learning opportunities that give residents the chance to succeed outside the facility.
Still, their work depends entirely on the generosity of the community. Unlike many shelters, Gospel Rescue Mission operates without government funding, relying solely on donations to maintain its personal approach. Every contribution—whether clothing, kitchen items, or financial support—makes a difference. Monetary gifts can be made online at grmtucson.com, or by phone at 520-740-1501, and physical donations can be dropped off at 4550 S. Palo Verde Rd., Tucson, AZ 85714.
For more information on Gospel Rescue Mission’s mission, donations, or volunteering information, visit their website, grmtucson.com. In this season of gratitude, let’s band together to help more people move from homelessness to wholeness.
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A TURKEY TRIUMPH
Many bold flavors. One unforgettable feast.
Every Thanksgiving table deserves a show-stopping bird. For those who love tradition, a golden-roasted herb turkey offers timeless comfort and fragrant flavors. For the adventurous, our sweet-and-spicy
version brings heat, honey, and a modern twist. Whichever you choose, both turkeys promise juicy meat, crispy skin, and the kind of centerpiece that makes guests pause in admiration before the first bite.
ROASTED HERB TURKEY AND GRAVY
SERVES
eight
Ingredients:
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 1/2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, lightly crushed
• 1 (12-pound) fresh whole turkey
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 4 cups chopped yellow onions (about 3 onions)
• 3 cups chopped carrots (about 7 carrots)
• 2 cups chopped celery (about 5 stalks)
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 cups water
For the Gravy:
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth, plus 1/2 cup
• 1/4 cup flour
Directions:
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in salt, thyme, sage, pepper, and fennel seeds. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the mixture.
Prepare the turkey by removing giblets and neck, then patting dry. Loosen the skin gently from the breast and spread the butter mixture underneath. Replace the skin, drizzle with oil, and rub with the reserved butter mixture. Tie legs with twine and tuck in wings. Let the turkey sit at room temperature for 1 hour or refrigerate overnight.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Place onions, carrots, celery, and bay leaves in the bottom of a roasting pan. Set a rack on top, coat with spray, and place the turkey on it. Add water to the pan and roast until a thermometer in the thigh reads 165°F, about 1 hour 45 minutes, rotating once. Let rest at least 30 minutes.
For the gravy, transfer drippings and vegetables to a saucepan. Add 3 1/2 cups broth and bring to a boil. Strain, discarding vegetables. Return liquid to pan. Whisk flour with 1/2 cup broth and whisk into the pan. Boil until thickened and reduced to 4 cups, about 20 minutes. Serve alongside turkey.
Herbs make the meal with this recipe.
SWEET AND SPICY ROAST TURKEY
SERVES
eight
Ingredients:
• 3 tablespoons salt
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
• 3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 (12-pound) fresh whole turkey
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 3 cups water
Directions:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, sugar, paprika, onion powder, ginger, mustard, and cayenne. Reserve 2 tablespoons.
Remove giblets and neck from the turkey and pat dry. Loosen the skin gently from the breast and spread the rub underneath. Replace skin, drizzle with 2 tablespoons oil, and sprinkle with reserved rub. Tie legs with twine and tuck in wings. Let sit at room temperature for 1 hour or refrigerate overnight.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Place turkey on a rack in a roasting pan, coat with spray, and add water to the pan. Roast for 1 hour 10 minutes, then rotate and brush with half the glaze. Continue roasting until the thigh registers 165°F, about 25 minutes more. Brush with remaining glaze and rest for 30 minutes before carving.
For the glaze, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and remaining tablespoon of oil. Brush at the halfway point and again after roasting.
Sweet and Spicy Turkey. Yes!
The mash to beat them all.
FINDING THANKFULNESS ON TRAILS
THREE DESERT OUTINGS TO GROUND YOU.
There’s something about November in the Catalina Foothills that naturally inspires gratitude. The summer heat has finally retreated, the air carries a refreshing coolness, and the light takes on a softer, golden glow. It’s the season when the desert invites us outside again, and the trails become pathways not only into nature, but also into a deeper sense of thankfulness.
On the path through Sabino Canyon, the steady rush of water over smooth stones creates a soundtrack for reflection. Cottonwoods turn brilliant yellow, their leaves shimmering against the sky. It’s easy to pause here and feel grateful — for shade cast by tall trees, for the gift of flowing water in the desert, and for the reminder that nature moves at its own patient pace.
Finger Rock Trail offers another kind of gratitude altogether. The climb is steep, and the trail demands focus and endurance. But with every step upward, worries seem to shrink, replaced by a widening perspective. At the summit, Tucson stretches endlessly below, framed by an impossibly wide desert sky. From this vantage point, gratitude feels expansive, as if the whole landscape is offering a reminder of resilience, strength, and possibility.
And then there is Ventana Canyon, where towering rock walls rise on either side and the late-afternoon sun sets them aglow. Here, gratitude comes quietly. It shows up in small moments: the resilience of saguaros clinging to rocky slopes, the soft fragrance of creosote carried on the breeze, the hush that settles as twilight approaches. The trail itself becomes a meditation, each step a chance to slow down and simply notice.
In these places, gratitude doesn’t feel like something to practice or check off a list. It comes naturally, woven into the desert itself. It’s in the
In these places, gratitude doesn’t feel like something to practice or check off a list.
rhythm of footsteps, the play of light on stone, the steady reminder that beauty exists all around us.
The trails of the Foothills teach us that thankfulness isn’t reserved for big moments or grand gestures. It’s found just up the hill in the stillness between steps, in the strength of the climb, and in the breathtaking views that reward us when we pause long enough to look around.
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WHY Gratitude FEELS Good
There’s a reason we instinctively feel lighter, calmer, and more connected when we pause to give thanks. Gratitude isn’t just a warm sentiment we save for Thanksgiving dinner — it’s a powerful mindset that can transform the way we experience daily life. Science is beginning to catch up with what people have always known: practicing gratitude feels good because it nourishes both mind and body.
When we recognize and appreciate the good in our lives, whether it’s a major milestone or something as small as a friendly smile, our brains respond in measurable ways. Gratitude has been shown to boost serotonin and dopamine — the very neurotransmitters that lift mood and increase motivation. At the same time, it reduces cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. The result? Better sleep, more steady energy, and less of the anxious tension that often creeps into busy schedules.
The benefits extend far beyond physiology. Gratitude also shifts perspective. Instead of focusing on what’s missing,
How thankfulness nourishes the mind, body, and spirit.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN EWING
it draws attention to what’s already present and meaningful. A hectic week feels different when it’s punctuated by small moments of joy: the way sunlight hits a mountain ridge, the comfort of a favorite meal, the kindness of a neighbor. Gratitude doesn’t erase challenges, but it reframes them, making space for hope and resilience.
Even relationships strengthen under the lens of gratitude. Expressing appreciation to friends, family, or colleagues not only fosters connection, but also reinforces a cycle of kindness. People who feel appreciated are more likely to extend appreciation in return, creating a ripple effect that builds community.
The beauty of gratitude is how accessible it is. A practice can be as simple as writing down three things you’re thankful for each day, beginning a meal with a shared moment of thanks, or taking a mindful walk outdoors to notice beauty in the ordinary. Some keep gratitude journals, while others silently reflect before bed. However it’s practiced, the effect is the same: an increased awareness of life’s richness.
In the rush of modern life, gratitude is a gentle invitation to slow down. It pulls us into the present moment, reminding us that even amid challenges, there are countless reasons to feel thankful. Gratitude feels good because it roots us in appreciation — turning ordinary days into something extraordinary.
Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude
• Write down three things you’re thankful for each day
• Share appreciation at mealtimes
• Send a quick thank-you note
• Pause on a walk to notice small moments of beauty
THE TRUSTED CHOICE
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©2022:Encompass Health Corporation:MyTurn
TUCSON
BLURRING THE LINES
A continuous flow from home to personal habitat makes foothills living exceptional.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISSAC STOCKTON
We live in an extraordinary habitat, one that invites us to spend more time outdoors, year-round. The shift toward smarter, more resilient and sustainable landscapes isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that perform, inspire, and truly enhance our way of life. Whether you’re updating an aging yard or starting fresh, now is the perfect time to rethink your outdoor environment and transforms your backyard into your favorite room in the house.
Patio living has been a thing here since, well, the 1950s. However, it continues to evolve with smarter plantings, comfort structures like shade zones, and far fewer sweeping concrete and gravel areas, as well as fewer oleanders, than in the past.
“Yes, clients are investing in multi-functional outdoor rooms that blur the line between home and landscape,” said Kate Aberle, outdoor living designer at Santa Rita Landscaping. Fire pits remain a staple, but we’re seeing growth in linear fire features that feel sleek and architectural.
Outdoor kitchens are evolving into full culinary stations with refrigeration, pizza ovens, multiple outdoor appliances, and bar seating.
Another significant trend is the integration of shade structures, such as pergolas with fans, lighting, and louvered mechanical slots, making outdoor living comfortable year-round.
Water features are also evolving: instead of large fountains, people want subtle recirculating basins that provide sound and movement without heavy water demand and a reduction in maintenance requirements.
“We’re seeing a major shift toward regionally adapted, low-water plant palettes that still deliver strong visual impact,” she said.
Desert evergreens like Mastic, Ironwood (often referred to as the “Mother of the Sonoran Desert”), and Texas Mountain Laurel are in high demand because they provide shade, seasonal color, yearround greenery, and habitat value without high water use, she said.
Opposite Left Top: Shelter from our sun is a fundamental design element
Opposite Left Bottom: Charcuterie in full swing
Opposite Right Bottom: A splendid spread indeed Above: And as they say, food (and drink) make the feast
EMPHASIS IS ON LANDSCAPES THAT PERFORM MULTI -
"THE
FUNCTIONS, PROVIDING SHADE, CONSERVING WATER, REDUCING HEAT, AND INVITING PEOPLE TO GATHER AND CREATE MEMORIES."
PLE
- KATE ABERLE, OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE DESIGNER AT SANTA RITA LANDSCAPING
And shrubs with multi-season interest and pollinator benefits, such as Tecoma Varieties, Damianita, and Desert Hop Bush ( great alternative to Oleanders), are increasingly popular as clients embrace biodiversity. “The priority is moving from ‘ornamental for show’ to resilient, climate-appropriate plantings that look good year-round and support ecosystems.
However, these changes mean that some old landscape memes are being phased out. “High-maintenance lawns and overly
formal plantings are rapidly declining. Turf is being replaced with native grasses, ground covers, and permeable hardscape.”
Overly lush, non-regional planting palettes, such as tropical palms or water-hungry annual beds, are seen as outdated and unsustainable.
Even decorative gravel yards with little shade are fading, as homeowners realize they don’t provide comfort or value. Instead, the emphasis is on landscapes that perform, provide shade, conserve water, reduce heat, and invite people to gather and make memories.
We live in an extraordinary habitat for humans. Anything we can do to maximize the utility and performance of each item outdoors is moving life in the right direction: outdoors!
A happy homeowner drawing the best out of his Sin Vacas home in the Santa Catalinas
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We are excited to welcome you to our institute and introduce our tradition of excellence in neurological and pain management service, but foremost in optimizing brain health and therefore optimizing your Quality of Life.
The mission of the Department of Neurology is to improve the lives of individuals with brain and nervous system disorders through excellence in clinical care, education, research, and community engagement.
Neurological and Pain Management | Neurodiagnostics Therapeutic Procedures | Sleep Evaluation and Treatment
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H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
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events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 31ST
Ballet Tucson: Magic in the Moonlight
Temple of Music and Art — 330 S. Scott Ave | 7:00 PM
The striking beauty of Paul Gibson's Piano Dance enchanted audiences in our 2024 Spring Concert, and the Ballet Tucson premiere of his Sense of Doubt promises to thrill with a powerful display of vigor and athleticism. This program will also see the return of Resident Choreographer Chieko Imada's Phantom of the Opera. Through Nov. 2nd, including Saturday matinee.
NOVEMBER 1ST
Día
de los
Muertos: A Celebration of Life
Linda Ronstadt Music Hall | 7:30 PM
Celebrate the rich and beautiful musical traditions of Día de los Muertos in this collaboration between the TSO and the Tucson International Mariachi Conference. Internationally recognized Tlen Huicani, the most iconic representatives of the beautiful Son Jarocho, join the TSO, Mariachi Aztlán de Pueblo High School, and Grupo Folklórico Los Guerreros de Pueblo High School for a one-night-only concert.
NOVEMBER 1ST
Ed Mell and Maynard Dixon: Icons of the West
Maynard Dixon and Native American Art Museum — 6866 E. Sunrise Dr. Suite 150 | 11:00 AM
Visit the Maynard Dixon & Native American Art Museum for this show of works by Ed Mell and Maynard Dixon. Icons of the West is a title of reverence and artistic weight both men exemplified during their creative journey. There are few Western art exhibitions of this magnitude. Tuesdays through Saturdays until 5 pm through Jan. 31st.
NOVEMBER 1ST
Star
Liana York:
Fifty Year Retrospective Journey & Ancient Rock Art
Mark Sublette Medicine Man Art Gallery — 6872 E. Sunrise Drive | 10:00 AM
Renowned sculptor Star Liana York's 50 Year Retrospective Journey and its companion exhibit "Ancient Rock Art - A Legacy for All Humankind." Mondays through Saturdays until 5 pm. Through Jan. 15.
NOVEMBER 5TH
Loft Film Festival
The Loft Cinema — 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. | 5:00 PM
Celebrating its fifteenth year in 2025, the Loft Film Fest at the Loft Cinema is dedicated to showcasing the best in independent, foreign, and classic films, while also celebrating the work of established and emerging directors, writers, producers, and actors to expand the audience for cinema that challenges, inspires, and entertains. Times vary through Nov. 13. Details here: loftcinema.org/series/loft-film-fest
NOVEMBER 7TH
All Souls Procession and Grand Finale
MSA Annex — 267 S. Avenida Del Convento | 4:00 PM
The All Souls Procession is an independently produced, non-motorized, participant-driven procession and ceremony honoring the memories of those who have passed. The series of All Souls Procession Weekend events culminates in the Procession and Grand Finale on Sunday, November 9th, starting at 4 PM and is preceded by community workshops and citywide art events.
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NOVEMBER 11TH
Lea Salonga - Stage, Screen & Everything in Between
Fox Tucson Theatre — 17 W. Congress St | 7:30 PM
Award-winning actress and singer Lea Salonga is renowned worldwide for her powerful voice and perfect pitch. Lea most recently starred in the new musical Here Lies Love at the Broadway Theater and headlined Old Friends (alongside Bernadette Peters) on London’s West End. Lea is probably best known for her Tony Award-winning performance in Miss Saigon.
NOVEMBER 14TH
Tucson Greek Festival It's Back!
Downtown Tucson Mural Lot — 43 E. Congress Street | 11:00 AM
The Tucson Greek Festival is returning after a five-year hiatus on Friday, November 14th, at the Mural Lot downtown on Congress. It will feature authentic Greek food, live music, traditional dancing, and opportunities to shop with local vendors. Until 11:00 PM.
NOVEMBER 19TH
Arizona Friends of Chamber Music: Jasper String Quartet
Leo Rich Theater — 260 S. Church Ave. | 7:30 PM
A recipient of Chamber Music America’s prestigious Cleveland Quartet Award (2012), the Quartet’s playing has been described as “sonically delightful and expressively compelling”. They will perform works by Franz Joseph Haydn, Patrick Castillo, George Walker, and Claude Debussy. The Quartet’s 2017 release, Unbound, was named by The New York Times as one of the year’s 25 Best Classical Recordings.
NOVEMBER 22ND
El Tour de Tucson
Tucson Convention Center — 260 S. Church Ave. | 7:00 AM
Another epic installment of Tucson's one-and-only El Tour de Tucson, Arizona's largest perimeter bicycling event, is a fun adventure ride that attracts up to 9,000 cyclists and features novice, intermediate, advanced, and professional riders. The 42nd El Tour de Tucson is produced and directed by Perimeter Bicycling Association of America. Events of all kinds throughout the weekend!
NOVEMBER 28TH
Jazz Master Brian Bromberg Returns Home
The Century Room — 311 E. Congress St. | 6:30 PM
Tucson's own Grammy-nominated musician, Brian Bromberg, brings his classic jazz quartet for two nights of classic jazz. Shows also at 8:30 PM both Friday and Saturday. Read our January feature of Brian here: citylifestyle.com/catalinafoothills/issues/2025-01
DECEMBER 4TH
An Evening with Suzy Bogguss - A Swingin' Little Christmas
Fox Tucson Theatre — 17 W. Congress St. | 7:30 PM
Enjoy a fun-filled evening of Christmas standards, together with a few original holiday songs, plus all of the great hits from Suzy Bogguss’ legendary career. Suzy brings her entertaining personality and matchless vocals, along with a stellar Nashville band. The group has been performing around the country for an enchanting night of sing-alongs and sentimentality the whole family will love.
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