Gilbert, AZ June 2023

Dad's Get It Done

My dad has always been the most influential person in my life.  I call my dad to share with him when something great has happened or when something terrible has happened.  I lean on him when I need advice or just want to rant about my favorite team’s win or loss.

When I was about 8 years old, my life revolved around the public swimming pool.  My dad is a retired teacher that managed the city pool in the summertime.   In the evening, he oversaw training the lifeguards.  Most nights, I would hang out not so patiently waiting for him to finish.  One night, the class was about the lifeguard saving an uncooperative or panicked person from the water. As I was only half paying attention from my perch on the high dive, I was shocked to hear my father crying for help.  I gazed down to see him struggling and the young lifeguard doing her best to get him to the edge of the pool.  Of course, I did the only thing my young brain could think.  I jumped into pool screaming “I will save you, Daddy”

Well, you can guess what happened next. There we were - the three of us all in trouble as I had landed right on top of them coming from a 12-foothigh board.  My Dad, who I found out later, was only pretending to be in trouble as part of the class, ending up saving the young lifeguard and me as well.   He never scolded me or made me feel bad about almost drowning the 3 of us.  I remember him having a grin on his face when he drove us home and laughing as he recounted the story to my mother with a great deal of enhanced drama.

This was not the only time he had to save me from impending tragedy.  Man, am I lucky that he was always watching out for me even when I was continuing to jump right in the middle of more trouble.

A father’s gifts of quality time, life-giving words, and positive actions have a long-lasting impact on his children.  Let your father or the father figure in your life know how much he matters to you.

And if you are a dad, let us be the first to say - thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.

June 2023

PUBLISHER

Robin Belley | robin.belley@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Kristy Belley | kristy.belley@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Tanya Lewellen | tanya.lewellen@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kylie Strawn | kylie.strawn@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Gabriel Belley | gabe.belley@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristy Belley, Nadine Bubeck, Nuvia Magdahi, Gretchen Pahia, Janice Vega

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jennica Maes, Janie Jones, Nuvia Magdahi, Zofia Sells, State 48

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

KRISTY BELLEY, PUBLISHER AND SALES DIRECTOR @GILBERTCITYLIFESTYLE

Happy Father’s Day!

New Models Now Open

Soon to become one of the jewels of the south valley and nestled in the heart of south Gilbert’s greenbelt, Stone Crest by Camelot Homes is a family-focused private gated community featuring a collection of our most popular single-level floor plans. Step inside to enjoy the soaring ceilings and thoughtful touches such as all en-suite bedrooms, or step out onto the spacious front patios that open your home to a vibrant neighborhood including community playground and more.

For an appointment to view, please contact Lori Blomker 602.818.3725

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

1: Families enjoy the live music by the pool 2: Outdoor Swinging on the patio 3: Lunch was served to all the would be neighbors

4: Camelot’s backyards left nothing to be desired 5: Meeting new neighbors 6: Camelot’s Stone Crest Models open for excited New Home Shoppers 7: Biking over to the new Camelot neighborhood was a joy Photography by Pixelist media

8: Source hosts the first stop on the tour 9: Enjoying the hospitality at Source 10: Sharing lunch on the patio 11: Winding down the tour with lunch at Belly 12: Inside the Beer Barn to learn more about what is on tap 13: Willam and Joe Johnston host media friends on a tour of Epicenter 14: Allyson from Wylde Salon beams with pride as she shares her new salon

15: Council Members turn out for the Diversified Partners ground breaking on the Mercy Gilbert Campus 16: It all starts with moving a little dirt 17: Mayor Brigette Peterson and Council at the ground breaking of the latest Mercy Gilbert complex

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Spinato's Pizzeria opens in Gilbert's Epicenter and launches Vegan Pizza option

The Spinato family will also introduce a new vegan pizza option at the Gilbert restaurant. Earlier this year, Spinato’s introduced a new gluten-free cauliflower crust option for all pizzas except any that are made with meatballs. The  new Vegan Pizza , first available at the Gilbert restaurant, is available on Spinato’s regular crust at any size as a build your own option, and also on their gluten-free crust which is also vegan friendly.

Scan to read more.

Photography Anthony Spinato - Courtesy of Spinato's Pizzeria

Oasis Pool Party returns with A-list Entertainment at Gila River Resorts

Continuing to elevate the pool party scene, Gila River Resorts & Casinos is hosting the hottest pool parties of the summer. Kicking off Memorial Day Weekend, the Oasis Pool will transform into a Las Vegas-style pool party where guests can splash to the beats of internationally recognized DJs and artists. Guests can sip cocktails poolside or lounge in a private cabana while basking in the pool party scene.

Heyday Skincare opens in Gilbert at San Tan Village

A one-stop skincare shop with facials and routines crafted by experts who believe in healthy habits, not quick fixes has opened at San Tan Village Mall.   Taking the facial out of the spa and the guesswork out of skincare, the leading brand offers affordable

and highly-customized facials, expert recommendations, and a relaxing experience – which are sure to be popular among Gilbert residents, bachelorette and bridal parties, and tourists visiting the area. Scan to read more.

Diversified Partners Breaks Ground on Mercy Center in Gilbert

Nestled in the heart of the Mercy Gilbert medical district, the project will cover more than 11 acres. A two-story, flagship Starbucks with unique firepit feature and patio space on both levels will sit on the front of Val Vista Drive. The development will also feature a two-story retail, restaurant and office space, which has already attracted tenants, including Gallery Nails, Nautical Bowls, Live Hydration Spa, Prizm Dental, Singh Dhillon Pediatric Dentistry and Willow Midwife.

Photography The McRae Agency

Photography Heyday Skincare

Two Locally Owned Businesses open in Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport

Kind Hospitality, the firm specializing in presenting elevated – and kind – dining experiences at airport and street-side restaurants is excited to announce the recent opening of its latest location within Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport, featuring two popular homegrown brands, Infusion Coffee & Tea Crafters and Queen Creek Olive Mill, the unit is conveniently located in the baggage claim area of the airport

Gilbert locals open the Kiwi Turf Cleaners

Based out of Gilbert, Kiwi Turf Cleaners aims to provide clean turf at a clean price. Co-owners, Ryan Moore and James Patterson have built a business knowing just like carpet your turf needs to be cleaned.

Turf is not a cheap investment, so they want to help maintain it's value. Their process includes sanitizing, eliminating pet odor and debris, turf reblooming, weed removal, power washing, infill installation, magnetic sweeping and more.

Scan to read more.

Local Media tour the latest shops and restaurants at Epicenter

William and Joe Johnston spent the morning with the local media introducing them to the newest shops and restaurants that have now opened in the Epicenter.   New store openings include Source, Peixoto Coffee, Wylde Hair Salon, Barre 3, UrbAna, Vintage Home, Beer Barn, Bunky Boutique, Gadzooks, Spinato's Pizzeria, The Collective, Manor, Matt's Big Breakfast, and Undertow.  All retail space is now rented and they are anticipating the remaining venues to open in Fall of 2023.

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Gilbert

local experiences

The best places and things to do in our area.

Grab your guys and plan a relaxed or adrenaline-induced day, weekend, or guys night out with any one of these local experiences made for guys.

Our Picks for The Man Clan

XTREME XPERIENCE: Get behind the wheel and head out on the track and join the select few who can say they’ve driven the world’s best supercars. 20000 S Maricopa Rd Chandler, AZ

ARIZONA COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE MUSEUM: Take a living history flight in an authentically restored WWII aircraft. Choose among six WWII aircraft, from an open biplane to the rarest bombers in the world. 2017 N Greenfield Rd Mesa, AZ

JESTERS BILLIARDS: Craft Beer, Billiards, & Darts is there any better combination for a night out with the guys in Gilbert.  1515 N Gilbert Rd Gilbert, AZ

SOCIAL AXE THROWING: It's like throwing darts on steroids with music and fun game play led by your personal axe coach to keep things lively and competitive. 2530 S Val Vista Dr Gilbert, AZ

HOLE 9 YARDS: Hole 9 Yards, is the premier cornhole venue in the country! They feature 26 lanes of cornhole, 60' full service bar, and delicious food. 868 N Gilbert Rd Gilbert, AZ

Want

Zofia Sells

An adventurous getaway packed with all things wild and free.

THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE FOR BIG GUYS AND LITTLE BOYS

ARTICLE BY NADINE BUBECK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADINE BUBECK, COSTILLO LODGE

Once upon a time there lived a boy mom outnumbered by three sons and her dear husband. Instead of a beach getaway, the family took a trip to a secluded spot in northern New Mexico: The Costilla Lodge located at Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve flaunting over 550,000 stunning acres of picturesque land.

The family spent four days doing all things boy- a guy’s getaway with a gal in tow. And boy, was it amazing.

Here’s what they did, and why you should add this crown jewel to your bucket list.

BACKGROUND

In the eyes of a child, there are not seven wonders of the world. To a child, there are seven million. When you travel with kids, you are giving them things that can never be taken away; experience, exposure, and a way of life. It’s a lesson to instill, that not all classrooms have four walls. And so begins the story of experiencing Costilla Lodge, a private 12,000 square foot logged humble abode located far from the main lodge at 10,000 feet elevation. The atmosphere is warm, wonderful, and grandiose with a fireplace taking centerstage in the main room. Dressed in

luxe ranch-like décor, there’s a bar, full kitchen (with a personal chef), plenty of private rooms, and a vast patio overlooking pristine terrain where you’ll likely spot elk. There’s a TV, but you won’t turn it on. Instead, you’ll opt for game night or the sound of silence.

It’s a little boy’s paradise, and admittedly paradise for adult “kids” as well. You’ll feel far-removed and safe from the world- it’s your house for a moment in time and the staff will fast become friends. After waking to fresh-cooked breakfast – incredible culinary ensembles made with immense TLC – you’ll start your day. The activities will wow you.

ACTIVITIES

Depending on weather and season, opt for a snow-shoe hunt for antlers. “Shed Hunting Season” is the ultimate scavenger hunt, and if you’re surrounded by boys, it becomes quite the competition. There are few things as thrilling as finding a freshly shed antler from the male elk on property and searching for sheds through snow is invigorating.

Here’s a fascinating fact: some antlers can grow up to one inch per day and they drop annually (this process

does not hurt the buck). But if you find one, it’ll look great on your mantle, and guests may keep up to four antler sheds found during their visit.

Next, get the guys out for bow hunting.

Steps from your home at Costilla Lodge are an assortment of lifelike targets- elk, bear, fox, and sheep. The boys can show mama they can morph into archers… but mama might impress them with her skills as well.

Vermejo activities are built for adventurous nature lovers; the Costilla backyard will become your playground. Plus, you’ll get overly accommodating, knowledgeable guides that’ll walk you through every activity, like handling the bow and aiming. In turn, your male posse will learn persistence and the satisfying fulfillment and feeling of a perfect shot.

Notably one of the coolest property expeditions will be ice fishing at the Costilla Reservoir.

Upon arriving at the reservoir, you’ll aim to catch Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout, once nearing extinction before the conservationists at Vermejo stepped in. In fact, Vermejo partnered with the state of New Mexico to bring back the species- an extremely successful initiative.

Guides will pitch an ice fishing tent in the middle of the frozen reservoir – surreal and insanely awesome. After setting up and drilling holes, you’ll park with patience swirling your rod. With some skill and a ton of luck, you’ll score some fresh catch, and the feeling of reeling in trout is indescribable. Vermejo is the largest Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout fishery in the world and standing on frozen water is a rush.

You can also fill your time with horseback riding and shooting- give your guys a lesson in safe gun-use and watch them go for the targets. Or, you can fill your time doing nothing at all, like sitting peacefully spotting wildlife.

To conclude the story of Costilla Lodge: the most important mark us boy moms will leave on this world are our sons. That is why, as moms, we hope our sons are good to this world. And thanks to Vermejo, boys have a place to be wild and free among the wild and free.

CONTINUED >

Give me a little log cabin, and I’ll be happy. Give me a private log lodge solely for me and my boys, and I’ll be happily ever after.

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNICA MAES, AMAES PHOTGRAPHY & STATE 48

Passion, Fashion, and Love for Arizona

CLIENTS AND COMMUNITY

MICHAEL SPANGENBERG - STATE FORTY EIGHT FOUNDER ON CREATING FOR

COMBINING PASSION, FASHION, AND LOVE FOR ARIZONA

Passion and persistence are just a few of the qualities you’ll find behind the Co-Founder and CEO of State Forty Eight, Michael Spangenberg. As Chairman of the Board for the State Forty Eight Foundation, he is responsible for creating a one-stop-shop for apparel and design needs in the Grand Canyon State.

The Arizona-inspired apparel company not only does state themed articles, but also does collaborative designs with other companies, provide screen printing and embroidery services, art and branding services, and much more. For Spangenberg, this is a personal mission of love. “I am passionate about business, my community and love Arizona sports. In my free time I love to shop, I have always loved fashion and always dreamed of starting my own clothing company. In a way, State Forty Eight has allowed me to combine all the things I love and call it a career.”

As the creator of the original State Forty Eight in Arizona, Spangenberg is a staunch supporter of all things Arizona, especially all of our local sports teams. “When I am not working, you can also find me at a local game or event, I love being out in the community.” And while he does support and love all things Arizona, he also has a big travel bug and loves to hit the road when opportunity strikes because for him, it brings much love, peace, and inspiration. “I’m always looking to learn and grow, and overall, I just strive for big things in life,” adds Spangenberg.

Prior to creating State Forty Eight, Spangenberg spent 15 years in the hotel industry, working his way up to a general manager role, which taught him a lot about what it would take once he made the move to run his own business. “We were always a top hotel in customer service, and I always took a lot of pride in that because you can

control that. I think you can see that quality customer service has carried over to State Forty Eight, it’s a big point of focus for us. I wouldn’t be here today without the hotel industry and all the experience I got as a younger manager.” One other great thing he learned on the job is what kind of leader he wanted to be and what kind he didn’t want to be. “I still have a long way to go and always want improve but I do take pride in treating people right and providing memorable service.”

Born and raised in nearby Chandler, Spangenberg spends quite a bit of time in Gilbert. Whether for grabbing a bite or a drink with friends, his heart has had a special place for the town. So much so that he decided to bring his business to the area.

“Last year, we opened our third Valley location in Gilbert, which was momentous for us after 10 years in business. Before that, I’d also built some great relationships with area business leaders, including Joe from Joe’s Farm Grill, who has been instrumental in the development of Downtown Gilbert. As a company, we’ve collaborations with other Gilbert businesses and even Your Town Gilbert have been great partners and supporters of State Forty Eight,” shares Spangenberg.

Even though his main priority and focus is growing and building State Forty Eight, Spangenberg also loves to get out and enjoy all the local dining options we have to offer. “I love trying new restaurants and concepts just because in Arizona you can go out every single night to a different restaurant and still never catch up. An ideal day in Gilbert would be having a great day at State Forty Eight Headquarters, then to cutting loose and enjoying good conversation over a nice

dinner at Clever Koi, followed by a drink at one of the many awesome bars in the Downtown Heritage District.”

When it comes to family, Spangenberg says there is nothing more important. At 38 years old, he is currently single with no kids of his own, but he does have two younger brothers, one of whom lives in Gilbert and the other in Florida. “I have a great relationship with my family and I’m super grateful for how I was brought up, I love them all to death.”

Now and in the future Spangenberg is dedicated to ensuring the community truly understands his passion for what State Forty Eight stands for. He stresses that they want to be known for more than selling t-shirts and hats, which is why he and his team created the State Forty Eight Foundation. This was created during the pandemic to help support local entrepreneurs. “We genuinely care for our community; we are nothing without them. We started with $1,500 and no experience in this business and we know first-hand how challenging the battles are for entrepreneurs,” says Spangenberg. He adds that it isn’t just about the for-profit side of things, they are passionate about helping others and giving back. “The whole reason we started the State Forty Eight Foundation was to make an impact. It's not just fluff, we dedicate a lot of time, energy, and resources into the foundation. But it comes with the biggest reward.”

For more information on the company or the foundation, check them out online at www.statefortyeight.com or www.statefortyeightfoundation.org

IS YOUR ROOF READY FOR MONSOON SEASON?

Once monsoon season rolls through the Valley, people become aware of leaks and problems. With these busier roofing schedules, you might not have your roof looked at for weeks after a storm blows through.

State 48 Style

GREAT GUY LOOKS FROM STATE 48 THAT CAN BE COMFY CASUAL OR STYLED UP FOR MORE DRESSY OCCASIONS

ARTICLE BY NUVIA MAGDAHI AND JANICE VEGA PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTOGRAPHER AND STYLIST: NUVIA MAGDAHI

When it comes to T-shirts, many men think they’re just a basic item in their wardrobe. But let me tell you, in Arizona that basic item has the be a State 48 T-shirt  There are a variety of styles, fits, and fabrics to choose from, and they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.  The best thing is that they can communicate a simple” love AZ statement “, or show support for our favorite teams, “Forks Up”, but I think the favorites are the shirts that have been partnered with local non profit missions to lend a helping hand.

3 TIPS FOR STYLING A T-SHIRT:

1. Add a Layer: Easily elevate a T-shirt with a stylish blazer or a light jacket and you’re ready to go from business lunch to swanky after-work cocktails. But if casual is more your vibe, then try throwing an unbuttoned flannel over your favorite tee for a classic look that looks effortlessly stylish.

2. Try a Tuck: Never underestimate the power of the tuck! Whether you’re pairing with slacks or jeans, try a French Tuck –where just the front of the shirt is tucked in and the rest is loose and untucked. Add a belt and voila, you’re stylin’. Feeling bold? Roll up the sleeves a la James Dean.

3. Play with Patterns: Don’t be afraid to play with patterns. Pair your T-shirt with some bright-colored, patterned shorts or pants for a fun but balanced look. Add a pair of cool shades and you’ll be turning heads all summer.

| BLACK AND COPPER T-SHIRT

With this Classic Black & Copper logo T-shirt, you can easily go from a business casual work meeting look, to a night-outfor-dinner-with-the-fellas look. Dress it up with a blazer and some trousers, or dress it down with a flannel and some joggers.

| GILBERT CITY COLLECTIONS T-SHIRT

This Gilbert City Collection T-shirt is made from a tri-blend material so soft and lightweight you will love pairing it with some classic denim and showing off your love for Gilbert during a night out on the town, or for a casual movie date paired with nicer trousers.

| DBACKS SAGUARO SLUGGER T-SHIRT

Our Dbacks Saguaro Slugger T-shirt is a perfect way to get geared up for baseball season! Wear it to the next game with some shorts since it is beginning to heat up, or for a cool summer look, wear it to the family barbecue with some colorful swim trunks.

GILBERT CITY COLLECTIONS T-SHIRT

The Vintage State shirt is a perfect way to represent our Phoenix Suns basketball team! The black stone look is super lightweight in material and has that worn vintage feel which makes it easy to pair with any color! Wear it with some lightweight shorts out for the day or turn it into a night look with a casual button-up layered over. Let’s go Suns

State Forty Eight’s new Dbacks Throwback shirt will have you feeling nostalgic with the classic teal color and diamondback logo. Pair it with some tan shorts and white sneakers to the next game and rep our Diamondbacks in style.

| VINTAGE STATE BASKETBALL T-SHIRT

| D-BACKS THROWBACK

DBACKS SAGUARO SLUGGER T-SHIRT

VINTAGE STATE BASKETBALL T-SHIRT

The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. Some amenities may not be constructed. Builder reserves the right to change the size, design , configuration and location of amenities not yet constructed and does not warrant the suitability thereof for any use or for any person. Builder does not warrant the suitability of any trail for any use or for any person. No information or material herein is to be construed to be an offer or solicitation for sale. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items.

Fabulous Finds

Spots to Cool Down Resort Pass Options for Valley Residents

It is that time of year when the temperatures go up, and local residents start looking for a place to escape the heat. Many Valley hotels and resorts offer Daily Resort Passes.  Whether you are looking for a spot for a little rest & relaxation, or to hang out with friends & family, there are several hotels and resorts around the Valley that offer these passes.

Resort Passes are a great option for those looking to enjoy our amazing resorts without having to commit to an overnight stay. Many of these resort passes give local visitors a chance to relax by the pool, rent a cabana, enjoy poolside snacks and drinks – all without breaking the bank or having to leave your home for a long trip.

The day passes offer many of the same amenities as a full resort stay with a few going all out including water slides, evening s’more roasting, and late night parties for the 21+ crowd.

However, visitors be warned, these can book up fast as some resorts only offer a certain number of passes, especially for high-peak times, so be sure to plan ahead.

Great Wolf Lodge Arizona

This fun property offers day passes and half-day passes to the waterpark. Families can now enjoy waterpark day pass starting at $55 per person. Please note, these are just starting rates and they do increase depending on the date. The park does monitor the waterpark day passes each day to ensure the visitor numbers are managed, and the quantities can change each day. To check the availability, guests can visit greatwolf.com/arizona.  Waterpark day passes are only available online.

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA

Arizona Grand Resort

Visitors can get the chance to splash around at this AAA Four Diamond Resort. The 7-Acre Oasis Water Park has water slides, lazy river, and pools across the property. You will also have access to the food and drinks offered poolside from the Oasis Bar & Grill. Guests can also book a cabana, especially great if you are planning to enjoy a full day in the hot sun. For information on hours, availability and more, you can find it online at www.arizonagrandresort.com

Sheraton Grand / Wild Horse Pass Rise Uptown Hotel

Residents looking to stick closer to the east valley, Sheraton Grand Wild Horse Pass is a wonderful option for purchasing a Resort Pass. Anyone who buys this Resort Pass will have access to the pool with cascading water streams, a waterslide designed after the ancient Casa Grande Ruins, and the shallow wading pool. This is a great spot for all ages and anyone with a Resort Pass will also have access to some of the resort restaurants including Ko’Sin & Hanyo. They will also have access to River Boat Adventure Rentals wildhorsepass.com

For those looking for the adult crowd, check out this modern hotel located in Central Phoenix fun in the sun, as well as when the sun goes down. Guests can purchase daybeds and loungers, along with eating at Lylo Swim Club or Don Woods’ without having to stay overnight. Lounge chairs are offered from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm daily, there are also Daybed options for two people, 6 people or 14 people – depending on the size of your party. There are also night swim passes available after 5:00 pm and Fire pit rentals as well. Keep in mind, this hotel only offers the day pass to 21+ rise-uptown.resortpass.co/

Tequila 101

Tequila is undoubtedly the drink of the summer. Many are looking to experiment with the spirit this summer and looking for tips to become better mixologists at home. The expert mixologists at Tequila Corrido made themselves available to share their advice on the essentials needed to make an elevated cocktail at home.

A FEW TIPS WHEN WORKING WITH TEQUILA INCLUDE

You can't go wrong with adding citrus. Fresh squeezed lime, lemon, orange, grapefruit juices are the perfect mixers. Smoothness from tequila balances acidity.

SWEETENER SOLUTIONS

Swap simple syrup for agave syrup to add another dimension of sweetness.

TYPES OF TEQUILA & FLAVOR PROFILES

Blanco has citrus, fruity and rich, floral agave flavor with slight crisp pepper notes. Reposado has lasting notes of vanilla, caramel, fruits and spices.

Añejo has bolder, intense flavor with a touch of coffee, agave and dry fruit.

GARNISHES

Freeze herbs (ex. mint, basil) or fruit (ex: pomegranate arils, berries) for a decorative and flavorful final touch to your drinks. Top drinks off with edible flowers, freshly grated spices, dried fruit .

SUMMER ESSENTIALS FOR THE HOME BARTENDER

Passion fruit Paradise

INGREDIENTS

• 2 1/2 oz Tequila Corrido Añjeo (Blanco or Reposado can also be used)

• 1/2 muddled fresh passion fruit

• 3/4 oz Fresh pineapple juice

• 3/4 oz simple syrup

• 1/4 oz Lemon Juice

DIRECTIONS

• Shake

• Pour into Collins Glass filled with ice

• Garnish with pineapple and lemon twist

Midsummer Melody

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. Tequila Corrido Blanco

• 1/4 oz. Melon Liqeuer

• 1/2 oz Agave nectar

• 1/2 oz. Aperitif of choice

DIRECTIONS

• Top with bubbles

• Combine all ingredients into a shaker and shake vigorously

• Strain into a chilled glass.

• Top with bubbles and garnish.

The Duet

INGREDIENTS

• 1 oz. each of Tequila Corrido Repo and Blanco

• 3/4 oz. Watermelon Syrup

• Mint sprig

• 3/4 oz Lime

• Jalapeno

• 1/2 oz. Agave

DIRECTIONS

• Muddle 1 jalapeno and mint into shaker.

• Combine the ingredients with crushed ice and shake.

• Pour into glass and garnish

ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINT PHOTOGRAPHY - NICKY HEDAYATZADEH

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

WEEKLY IN JUNE Camp Zoo

PHOENIX ZOO

Ever wonder what it’s like to work at the Zoo?

Campers will come behind the scenes and explore a week in the life of caring for our many animals! Every grade will get the opportunity to explore a unique role at the Zoo that will take them on backstage tours and to places you don’t get to see on a typical Zoo visit

JUNE 1ST - JUNE 30TH,

Bye Bye Birdie

HALE CENTRE THEATRE - 50 WEST PAGE AVENUE, GILBERT  Hip-swingin’ teen heartthrob, rockand-roll superstar Conrad Birdie has been drafted into the army. His manager cooks up a plan to send him off in style, with a swell new song and one last kiss from a lucky teenage fan on The Ed Sullivan Show. Featuring beloved songs such as “Put on A Happy Face,” “Spanish Rose,” and “A Lot of Livin’ To Do.” Weekly Thursday, Friday, and Saturday

JUNE 1ST - 30TH

Flashlight Nights at Desert Botanical Garden

DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN

7:00 PM

Make summer shine at Flashlight Nights. Bring a flashlight and enjoy the Garden after dark with performances, cool treats, hands-on activities and creature features.

DesertBotanicalGarden.org

• Please bring a flashlight.

• A bar is available and accepts only credit and debit payment.

• Gertrude’s Restaurant is open until 8 p.m., last seating at 7:30 p.m.

• The Garden Shop is open until 8 p.m.

JUNE 8TH

Gilbert H20 Fest

FREESTONE PARK

Beat the heat at Gilbert’s newest event, H2O Fest! This family-friendly water fest at  Freestone Park features 8+ playful water obstacles, food trucks, music and more! 4 sessions will be held to ensure optimal slide time for each participant. Participants are encouraged to wear swim shoes, bathing suits or clothing that can get wet!

JUNE 20TH - JUNE 25TH

Hairspray

ASU GAMMAGE - TEMPE

You Can’t Stop the Beat! HAIRSPRAY, Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical comedy phenomenon is back on tour! Join 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad in 1960’s Baltimore as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show. Can a girl with big dreams (and even bigger hair) change the world? Matinee and Evening Performances www.asugammage.com/hairspray

Importance of the Inner Child

A hot topic in the psychology zeitgeist right now is connecting with one’s inner child. You may have seen it on social media or in articles about the best products to reconnect with that inner child, but there is a little more to reconnecting and healing your inner child than just the activities you do and products you buy.

The concept of the inner child is that within reach of us, often as a subconscious part of self, is a more vulnerable, childlike version of ourselves that can hold creativity and passion and also unresolved hurt, anger, and trauma. Coming to understand our internal needs means getting to know your inner child to understand what needs may be going unmet and perhaps understanding the neglect your inner child may be going through or has gone through before.

When we feel threatened or unsafe in childhood, we can learn that we have to give away our authenticity in order to have attachment and belonging and acceptance from our caregivers. To step back into our authentic may require a reexamination of what we have done or how we’ve acted in order to be accepted. Just as you wouldn’t abandon a child in need who is asking for help, we need that same care connection. So, ask yourself, what have you been denying yourself? What needs have gone chronically unmet? What moments trigger defensiveness, resentment, or pain? These questions will help lead you to understanding how you can now meet those needs for yourself, how you can show up as a safe adult for your own inner child. You still deserve the love you needed in the past, and it can now being fulfilled from within.

Author: Alexa Bailey, MSW, LCSW / IG: alexabaileycounseling

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MAKE AN IMPACT FOR DAD

What do you buy for the man who has everything? Perhaps an experience oriented around what dads value most – time together – is just what he needs. Fathers and father figures are invaluable in our lives. They help shape and mold us. They’re there for us and support us. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!

Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Dad feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your dad, husband, brother or father figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.

Memorable Ways to Celebrate The Father Figure in Your Life

LEARN ABOUT HIS FAMILY TREE

Family heritage websites can offer insight into dad’s past and be an interesting way to study the history of your family. Present Dad with a report on his ancestors or dig in together!

PLAN A STAYCATION

You don’t need to go very far to have a great time with Dad! Explore a new neck of your own woods with a family staycation. You can go out on the town, stay at a fancy hotel and maybe even enjoy some room service!

GO BIRD WATCHING

Lay out a blanket in your backyard and grab your binoculars for a peaceful, naturefilled day. Make a list of how many different kinds of birds you see and guess if you can identify them.

GO BOWLING

Bowling is a timeless classic Dad is sure to enjoy. Bonus if the bowling alley has an arcade, chicken wings and Dad’s favorite beverage of choice.

PLAY FRISBEE GOLF AS A FAMILY

Find a local frisbee golf course and grab a slot for the family to play. This activity is fun for both young and old and helps you take advantage of being in the beautiful outdoors together.

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