North Peoria, AZ August 2021

AU G U S T 2 02 1

CELEBRATING KIDS & PETS

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER

Julie LaCroix | julie.lacroix@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Kids & Pets THIS ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO SOME OF OUR CUTEST RESIDENTS— THE KIDS AND PETS OF NORTH PEORIA. I was taken with the story of one of our 12-year-old residents who has founded her own company, Homemade Soap by Lex. It's fun to see our youngest residents embracing the spirit of our community.

Susan Lanier-Graham susan.lanier-graham@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Susan Lanier-Graham

If there’s one thing we’ve learned from living in North Peoria, it’s that we sure do love our pets! This issue highlights some of the best pet-friendly patios! Remember that

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Angel Fuchs

it's still hot out there, so be careful of the sensitive paws on your four-legged friends.

We also have some great pet parks here in North Peoria. With these outdoor spaces and splash pads, you can satisfy the cutest members of our community.

As summer winds down and we prepare for another school year ahead, we remind you to take the time and enjoy some quality time with your kids—and pets—this month.

As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!

CORPORATE TEAM Julie LaCroix, Publisher

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER VIDA by Beth Nybeck at Paloma Community Park

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CITY OF PEORIA 4

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

Proverbs 3:5-6 North Peoria Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the North Peoria area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in North Peoria Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2021

FEATURES 16 Bravada Yachts Launches 80-foot Yacht at Lake Pleasant Custom-built $1.5 million 4-bedroom yacht

18 Brew Your Own Beer & Wine If you can follow a recipe you can brew your own beer or wine

22 Splash Pads & Pet Parks Discover August-friendly outdoor activities in local parks

22 18

26 Homemade Soap

by Lex 12-year-old Alexis Escobar sets up shop to fund her passion

16

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Local Experiences

14

Culinary Creations

16

Trend Setter

18

Hops & Vine

26 Local Limelight 31

Realty Report

32 Lifestyle Calendar

26

34 Healthy Lifestyle

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CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

7

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Paradise Island Opens at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix A few local bloggers and influencers gathered to celebrate the Paradise Island expansion at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. The 35-acre water park is the city's largest. The all-new Paradise Island features a 12,000-square-foot activity

6.

pool with interactive elements. Hurricane Harbor is at I-17 and Pinnacle Peak Road in the Adobe Dam Regional Park. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGEL VARGAS FUCHS

4.

5.

1. Jacquelyn Fuchs & Ryan Dempsey | 2. Jacquelyn Fuchs & Ryan Dempsey | 3. Paradise Grill | 4. Jacquelyn Fuchs | 5. Paradise Island | 6. Paradise Grill serves up great food

8

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

1.

2.

3.

Pray for Pine: Old County Inn Fundraiser Joey Lucidi of Westside Concepts and Jim Escobar, owner of Mi Familia in Peoria, hosted a fundraiser in June. All proceeds went to the employees of Chef Mike Dahling, owner of Old County Inn and two other restaurants in Pine. The employ-

6.

ees were displaced because of the massive Backbone Fire. The community showed up to support fellow Arizonans.

4.

5.

1. Jim Escobar, owner of Mi Familia restaurant in Peoria, presenting Chef Mike Dahling, owner of Old County Inn in Pine with a check of donations | 2. Jim Escobar, owner of Mi Familia in Peoria, Chef Mike Dahling, owner Old County Inn in Pine, Joey Lucidi, owner Westside Concepts | 3. Guests Jen & Aaron Yancy | 4. Chef Mike Dahling with his son, Nash | 5. The Cantina Gueros menus | 6. Cantina Gueros’ mascot, Sancho!

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AROUND TOWN

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Pop-Up Peoria is located next to Bath & Body Works. Check for open times online at ShopParkWest.com.

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T WO LOCATIONS: GR A N D AV E L O C AT IO N 8217 W Grand Ave, Peoria, A Z 85345 Summer Weekend Market Hours: Friday and Saturday 10 -5 PA R K W E ST M A L L LO CAT ION Inside Pop Up Peoria 9828 W Nor thern Ave, Ste. 1750, Peoria, A Z 85345 Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 10 -7 | Sunday 12- 4

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North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

WEST VALLEY ART MUSEUM PRESENTS A POTPOURRI OF PRINTS Check out the current exhibit, Potpourri of Prints, at The West Valley Art Museum. The exhibit features fine art prints from around the world in a variety of printmaking techniques. Check out the series of Street Art works by Viggo Vake.

The museum, with a permanent collection of more than 1,650 items from around the world, is inside Peoria City Hall. Open Monday through Wednesday from 10 am to 4 pm and Thursdays

from noon to 6 pm. Admission is free.

Find out more at wvvam.org.

SCHOOL IS BACK IN SESSION School is back in session!

Peoria Unified School District officially kicks off the 2021-2022 school year on Wednesday, August 4, 2021.

Although Wednesday is normally a modified schedule in Peoria, note that the first day is a full day. Check current

schedules

and

bulletins

online at peoriaunified.org/Peoria.

The Glendale Elementary School District and the Glendale Union High School District both begin school on Monday, August 9. Find out more about GUHSD at guhsdaz.org and GESD at portals.gesd40.org/.

Deer Valley USD, which serves students in both Glendale and Peoria, begins school on Monday, August 2, 2021. You can find a full list of DVUSD schools, with links to each one, online at dvusd.org.

CERRETA CANDY TOURS Ever wanted to jump into the world of Willy Wonka? Take a tour of local candy makers, Cerreta Candy Company. The family-owned business, founded in downtown Glendale more than 50 years ago, makes great tasting chocolates, caramels, taffy, barks, brittles and more. The 30-minute tours start at 10 am and 1 pm Monday through Friday. No reservations required for individual or family visits. Groups of 10 or more can make reservations by calling 623.930.9000.

Cerreta.com

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CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

11

LOCAL EXPERIENCES

KIDS + PETS WHILE IT’S NOT OVER YET, SUMMER IS SOON COMING TO AN END AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO BID ADIEU THAN TO SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND OUR FAVORITE FOURLEGGED FRIENDS! Embrace the end of the season by gathering the kids, dogs, and adults alike for some indoor and outdoor recreation and exploration, pet-friendly destinations that embrace our furry friends, and our end of summer and return to school summer party ideas!

KIDS AT PLAY + Topgolf Glendale is great for family fun with more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays. Full-service restaurant and bars serving up family- and kid-friendly bites.

6101 N 99th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85305 + Take the entire family to Lake Pleasant for the day. Rent a pontoon boat with all the water toys from Scorpion Bay Marina.

10970 W Peninsula Blvd, Peoria, AZ 85383 + Kids have you climbing the walls? Go for a fun wall-climbing adventure at Ape Index Rock Climbing Gym. Get an orientation, harness up, and climb!

9700 N 91st Ave, Ste 118, Peoria, AZ 85345 + Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is a thrilling waterpark with more than 30 rides. Water fun for the entire family with plenty of food options.

4243 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Glendale, AZ 85310 + Peoria Uptown Jungle Fun Park specializes in wearing kids out! So many attractions: trampolines, obstacle course, Ninja course, slides, climbing walls and more.

7608 W Cactus Rd, Peoria, AZ 12

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

Scorpion Bay Marina

scan for more city-wide tips

END-OF-SUMMER HURRAH + Book a staycation at the historic Wigwam Arizona and spend time sipping cocktails at the swim-up bar or heading down the water slide.

300 E Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 + A little pool time, a little shopping, a little football. Have it all with a stay at Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa. 9495 W Coyotes Blvd, Glendale, AZ 85305 + Soak up summer floating in the lazy river at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. Easy access off the Loop 101.

5350 E Marriott Dr, PhoeniX, AZ + Situated between downtown Phoenix and Lake Pleasant, Cibola Vista Resort and Spa is a great place to unwind. Kids love the 3-story water slide.

27501 N Lake Pleasant Pkwy, Peoria, AZ 85383 + Indoor water park, miniature golf, magical quests, and themed suites

Marriott Hotels

scan for more city-wide tips

await at Great Wolf Lodge Arizona.

7333 North Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

PET-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES + Pratt's Pet Store began in 1936 as a feed store. "Your Neighborhood Zoo" offers an assortment of animals and supplies at all 3 locations.

5237 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301 + Lakeside Bar & Grill is a neighborhood hangout with an updated, dogfriendly front patio. Don't forget that Friday is all-you-can-eat fish fry!

9980 W Happy Valley Pkwy, Ste 1101, Peoria, AZ 85383 + Fido can run and play without over-heating when you head to Paloma Community Park's new lighted pet park.

29799 N Lake Pleasant Pkwy, Peoria, AZ 85383 + Let your four-legged pets run at Pioneer Community Park while the kids enjoy the shaded playground.

8755 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345 + Give your furry friends a cool break with an indoor lesson or a play-

scan for more city-wide tips

group at Zoom Room. Puppy Preschool to Obedience or Advanced Agility training.

7439 W Bell Rd, Ste A-1, Peoria, AZ 85382 CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

13

CULINARY CREATIONS

A V O C A J D U O N G L E S P I T A

H U M M U S

PITA JUNGLE IS A TRUE HOME-GROWN SUCCESS STORY. Bassel Osmani, born in France and raised in Lebanon, came to Arizona in 1985 to attend ASU. While studying bio-engineering, Osmani met Nelly Kohsok and Fouad Khodr, two other students. After graduating, the three friends founded Pita Jungle to serve fresh food, made from scratch daily.

The three started with $15,000 and built the first restaurant in Tempe by hand with the help of a single handyman. Today, Osmani and his partners have 24 locations throughout Arizona, including the Pita Jungle Arrowhead location. Osmani remains a hands-on leader at Pita Jungle and loves to oversee the menus. When not at work, Osmani spends time with his family, sampling food and wine from around the world, sailing, and windsurfing.

Osmani shares a version of one of the restaurant’s famous hummus recipes, which is ideal for a hot August day. You can try this Avocado Hummus at home but stop

by Pita Jungle for the Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus. It’s a bright taste of the Southwest. PitaJungle.com

ARTICLE SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOS PROVIDED Pita Jungle Arrowhead 14

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

YIELD: 8 SERVINGS

AVOC A DO H U M M US

ingredient s

+ Avocado Hummus + Ingredients: + 1 cup drained well-cooked (or canned) chickpeas + 1 ripe avocado + 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste) + 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus oil for drizzling + 1 garlic clove, peeled + salt and pepper to taste + 1/4 cup water + juice of 1 lemon

Add all ingredients to a blender.

Emulsify for 1 to 2 minutes. You can add up to an additional 1/4 cup water if needed. Your hummus should have the consistency of a spread.

Place the hummus in a bowl or plate to serve. Add any desired toppings, such as diced tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil.

Serve with your choice of pita, chips or veggies.

direc t ions CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

15

TREND SETTER

ARTICLE SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BRAVADA YACHTS

yach a s d a e v ts h a c o laun o t ya br 80 -f cht at lake pl ea sant

Upgrade by Bravada Yachts docked at Scorpion Bay Marina

CUSTOM-BUILT $1.5 MILLION 4-BEDROOM YACHT

WHEN YOU DRIVE TO LAKE PLEASANT AND HEAD OUT ON THE DOCK AT SCORPION BAY MARINA, YOU MIGHT NOTICE THE 80-FOOT YACHT DOCKED THERE. The V-Series yacht, custom-built by Arizona-based Bravada Yachts, is the first million-dollar houseboat on Lake Pleasant.

“Team Bravada is excited to launch our latest design, the Atlas V-Series, in our own backyard at Lake Pleasant,” said Principal, Robert Gutierrez. “We’ve worked hard to develop a team of the best framers, welders, fabricators, designers, engineers and a support staff that is laser-focused on innovation. Our goal was to 16

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

create a hybrid of the sleek look of an ocean yacht, with all the comfort of a luxury houseboat.”

Bravada has delivered on that goal with this 80-foot beauty, named Upgrade.

And this is quite the upgrade. It features a custom teak swim deck, fire pit, dual kitchen with Samsung appliances, and a 14-foot waterslide. Inside, the owners will enjoy floor-to-ceiling marble tile showers, electric fireplace, custom bedding and surround sound. No expense has been spared behind the scenes, either. Upgrade has an upgraded water filtration system, Volvo dual prop Diesel engine, Westerbeke generator, dual prop bow thruster and two jet ski winches.

Bravada

also

has

custom-built

yachts on Bartlett, Havasu, Powell, Saguaro, and Roosevelt lakes. The

Upgrade by Bravada Yachts docked at Lake Pleasant

company is taking orders for 2024.

BravadaYachts.com

The Upgrade by Bravada Yachts is a custom-built 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom luxury yacht

No expenses were spared in the 4-bedroom custom yacht

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

17

HOPS & VINE

brew your own

beer & wine IF YOU CAN FOLLOW A RECIPE YOU CAN BREW YOUR OWN BEER OR WINE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

ADAM AND ALLIE VATH LOVE HOME BREWING. When they

What Ale’s Ya originally sold everything

discovered What Ale’s Ya, opened by Chuck Therio in 1996, they

for the home beer brewer, but now also

became regular customers. Their dream of opening a taproom

has kits for making wine from high-quality

was set for early 2020. Then the pandemic hit. The Vaths decided

varietal wine grapes. Those who prefer can

instead to purchase What Ale’s Ya and haven’t looked back.

work in the newly installed brew kitchen

Adam, born and raised in Tucson, is a helicopter pilot for an air medical transport company. He met single mom and mother of twins Allie

and get a lesson. Look for regular beerand wine-making classes.

and the couple married a decade ago. Allie went into direct sales so

Allie enjoys the winemaking. “We have

she could stay home with the twins and the couple’s baby girl. Now,

a lot of fun with it. There are a couple of

as the owners of What Ale’s Ya, the entire family—from the 6-year-old

private releases.”

to the 17-year-old twins—pitches in to make the brew store a success.

She enjoys the Bordeaux, a Double Noir,

“Brewing was Adam’s hobby,” explains Allie. “He’s been brewing

and Sangiovese Rosé kits. Sweet summer

for about 12 years now. He was home brewing before we met, and

wines, including Muscato, and crisp Pinot

we started doing it together. Then we decided to make wine one

Grigio kits are also popular.

year for Christmas as gifts. So, it’s just kind of fun.”

Adam prefers the beer kits. “Honestly,

Adam says it felt right to buy the brew store. “Instead of a man

it’s really hard to screw up making beer

cave, we bought the home-brew store,” he laughs. “I love to brew

when you use the kits,” he explains.

here in the store with customers.”

“You just need to be able to clean and

Customers most often shop at What Ale’s Ya—coming in from

sanitize. As long as you do that, you can

across the Valley—to purchase one of the beer or wine kits. “It’s

make beer. I tell everyone that if you can

really simple,” explains Allie. “People can come in and pick up a kit

follow a recipe to bake a cake, you can

and we’ll help them.”

make beer.”

18

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

CONTINUED >

Allie & Adam Vath, owners of What Ale's Ya?

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

19

HOPS & VINE (CONTINUED)

Adam explains that it takes about $200 to get started making beer, but that includes the equipment. “The kit comes with everything you need to make five gallons of beer,” explains Adam. Each kit includes detailed instructions, the hops, sugars, grains and yeast. Some even come with labels for your bottles.

Although Adam and Allie both still have their full-time jobs, the store is open 11 am to 5 pm daily at Bell Road and 51st Avenue.

fun f a

WhatAlesYa.com

Select your own hops to create custom beer

cts Wine kits yield 27 to 30 bottles per kit at a cost of about $6 per bottle.

Equivalent varietals sell for about $30 per bottle in stores.

Wine kits include bags of unfermented grape juice sourced from top grape producers around the world.

Beer kits yield about 5 gallons of beer, or about 48 to 50 bottles.

If you prefer to brew from scratch, What Ale’s Ya has a selection of grain malts milled on the premises.

What Ale’s Ya has a cooler full of various types of hops.

The yeast you choose changes both beer and wine. Find an impressive assortment of both at the store.

Examples of wines you can make from the wine kits

20

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL City Lifestyle

YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

www.Kawa i i Cu i s i n e .com

T H AT ’ S H OW WE

ROLL Serving 2 Locations: PEORIA 8385 West Deer Valley Road, Ste 114

623.561.1988

GLENDALE 6530 W. Happy Valley Road, Ste. 112

623.566.3888

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21

splash pads & pet parks

22

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

ARTICLE SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CITY OF PEORIA

LO C A L Rio Vista Recreation Center

DISCOVER AUGUST-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN LOCAL PARKS

THERE IS NO DENYING THAT AUGUST IN ARIZONA IS HOT. But our smallest and youngest community members—our kids and pets—still need to run and play. With so many great parks nearby, you’re in luck. Splash pads, gated dog parks and covered playgrounds make for Augustfriendly outdoor activities. community parks offer great amenities and

volleyball courts, the Rio Vista Skate Park and the

something for everyone. As Mayor Cathy Carlat

Rio Vista Recreation Center.

says, “As our city continues to grow, we must be

The splash pad is open mid-April through

vigilant to safeguard access to our unique, natural

mid-October from 10 am to 8 pm. Kids of all ages

environment while creating areas that allow fam-

will enjoy a cool splash in the midst of those tri-

ilies and friends to have fun and enjoy the mental

ple-digit days.

and physical benefits of the Sonoran Desert.”

The skatepark is popular with the teens and offers spaces easy enough for beginners but challenging

RIO VISTA COMMUNITY PARK While the 52-acre Rio Vista Community Park doesn’t have a pet park, it does have a splash pad, an urban lake for fishing, lighted sand

enough for experts. The skatepark is lighted, so skaters can enjoy it during park hours, from 6 am to 10:30 pm. There is also shaded seating.

When things get really hot outside, you can head indoors to the Rio Vista Recreation Center.

With brand new carpet and recoated floors, this

Splash pad at Pioneer Community Park

great facility just skyrocketed to the next level.

This family-friendly facility features a public gym, indoor racquetball courts, climbing walls, and more. The rec center, which does charge admission, is open weekdays from 5 am to 8 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 4 pm.

PIONEER COMMUNITY PARK The 83-acre Pioneer Community Park offers a 5-acre urban lake for fishing, lighted ball fields, a dog park, and a great shaded playground and splash pad. Your little ones won’t want to leave!

The park is open 6 am to 10:30 pm daily. You can go online to reserve a covered ramada.

Be sure to purchase your Urban Fishing License—available online at AZGFD.com—and cast a line for trout, catfish, bash, or sunfish.

CONTINUED >

PA R K S

Peoria has dozens of parks, but the three

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

23

SPLASH PADS & PET PARKS (CONTINUED)

PALOMA COMMUNITY PARK North Peoria’s newest park, on Lake Pleasant Parkway just south of Loop 303, spans 85 acres in the first phase.

The second phase will develop an additional 40 acres and connect to surrounding trails.

You can find something for everyone at this large park, which is truly an oasis in the desert. There are lighted ball and multi-purpose fields, lighted pickelball courts, a fishing lake with a deck, a newly opened splash pad and inclusive-designed playground, as well as a lighted dog park.

The park is open 6 am to 10:30 pm daily and you can fish with an Urban Fishing License during those hours. The opening of this beautiful new park has been highly anticipated in the community. Peoria Mesquite District councilmember Bridget Binsbacher says, “Paloma Community Park is another shining example of Peoria’s commitment to providing the highest quality of life and recreational amenities to its residents.”

ENJOY ALL THE DOG PARKS There are six dog parks in Peoria. In addition to Paloma and Pioneer, you can take your four-legged family members to Alta Vista Park (10631 W Williams Rd), Parkridge Park (9734 W Beardsley Rd), Scotland Yard Park (9251 W Scotland Ave) and Sunnyslope Park (9280 N 71st Ave).

Remember that dogs must be on a leash until they are safely inside the gated dog park. You can take two dogs per handler and dogs must be licensed and vaccinated.

Please no puppies younger than four months and remember to clean up after your pet.

SPLASH PADS GALORE There are four splash pads in Peoria parks. Along with the large splash pads at the three community parks, you can take the kiddos for some watery fun at the small splash pad at Camino A Lago Park, located at Lake Pleasant Pkwy and 98th Avenue.

Splash pads in Peoria parks are open from April 15 through October 15 between 10 am and 8 pm. There are playgrounds and restrooms near all splash pads.

Covered playground at Pioneer Community Park

24

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

Just because it’s hot, it doesn’t mean you can’t get outside and enjoy our desert lifestyle. Find all the details about area parks online at PeoriaAZ.gov.

Dog park at Paloma Community Park at night

peoria communit y parks

Pioneer Community Park Splash Pad Aerial View

P I O N E E R C O M M U N I T Y PA R K Pioneer is at 8755 N. 83rd Avenue and Olive, just west of US 60. The lighted ball and multipurpose fields, dog park, playground, and urban lake are open from 6 am to 10:30 pm daily. The splash pad is open 10 am to 8 pm between April 15 and October 15. Go online to reserve ramadas and grills.

R I O V I S TA C O M M U N I T Y PA R K

PA L O M A C O M M U N I T Y PA R K

Rio Vista is at 8866 W Thunderbird Rd. The entrance is a third mile

Paloma is Peoria’s newest community park, covering

west of Loop 101 on Thunderbird. Park, playground, walking trails,

85 acres at 29799 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy and Dixileta

lighted sport fields, and skate park are open 6 am to 10:30 pm daily.

Dr, south of the Loop 303. The lighted fields and pickle

The splash pad is open 10 am to 8 pm between mid-April and

ball courts, along with the fishing lake, playground, and

mid-October. Rio Vista Recreation Center is open 5 am to 8 pm

dog park, are open 6 am to 10:30 pm daily. The splash

weekdays and 9 am to 4 pm Saturday. You can pay a daily admission

pad is open 10 am to 8 pm April 15 through October 15.

price or buy a membership. There is no dog park at Rio Vista.

Reserve ramadas online.

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

25

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

HOM E M A DE S OA P BY LEX

Alexis (Lex) Escobar started her own company to pay for cheer

Cool Water soap with avocado, olive, coconut and castor oil and blue shocker mica

12-YEAR-OLD ALEXIS ESCOBAR SETS UP SHOP TO FUND HER PASSION

26

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

Homemade Soap by Lex changes based on available ingredients

ARTICLE SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ALEXIS ESCOBAR

Homemade Soap by Lex is available online and at local pop-up locations

WE ALL SAW MANY PEOPLE TAKE TO MAKING

At only 12, Escobar is loving running her own company.

PRODUCTS AT HOME DURING THE PANDEMIC—

“I love being able to be my own boss and tell my parents

IN PART TO REPLACE WHAT THEY COULDN’T

what to do,” she laughs. “And making my own money.” As

BUY AND IN PART TO HELP WITH INCOME. Alexis

a student—and one active in cheer—she loves being able

Escobar is no exception to that. She saw a need and she

to fit things around her own schedule. But it’s the people

decided to solve it.

that bring Escobar the most joy. “I love meeting all the

“I love going to LUSH,” says Escobar. “However, when

new people and earning new customers along the way.

COVID hit, I had to stop going, so their products were

Seeing how my customers love the products and keep

not as easily accessible to me. That is when I came up

coming back for more brings me great joy!”

with the idea to start my own line of similar products, giving them my own twist and personal touch.”

The big difference with Escobar? This entrepreneur is only 12 years old.

And Escobar has some great products. She offers soaps, body scrubs, body butter, and high-quality CBD lotion bars. She explains that she only uses the best and safest ingredients.

Alexis Escobar, who goes by “Lex,” started Homemade

“My CBD products are a hit because they offer pain

Soap by Lex in her West Valley home. Along with want-

relief. I love to use them after a long day of cheer. It

ing to create soaps, she also had a financial motive.

allows me to relax and rest my sore muscles and joints.”

“I absolutely love cheer and have been doing it for about four years now,” she explains.

While Escobar says her personal favorite is her line of sugar scrubs, she is proud of all of her products. Everything

After a short break during the pandemic, she is back to

is natural, created with the best ingredients. Escobar, with

cheer. One of the main reasons she started Homemade

the help of her mom and dad, sources her products from

Soap by Lex was to help pay for that passion.

both local stores and online. She changes what she offers

“I started this business to help with the cost and

based on what is available. She uses natural essential and

expenses that come with cheer and traveling,” she

fragrance oils and organic goat milk from a friend’s farm.

explains. “I love being able to help support myself when

She says it is important to give her customers the peace

it comes to cheer. It gives me a sense of independence

of mind they get from knowing they are using the “best of

at my age.”

the best” on their bodies.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

27

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Homemade Soap by Lex set up in a local shopping area

Watermelon soap

But it’s not just her family that helps. “I don’t ever want to leave out God,” explains the 12-year-old entrepreneur. “He is in the center of my business, and I thank Him for blessing my family and me.”

Escobar never takes her good fortune for granted. She also regularly donates to charities.

28

“My love truly goes into these products,” she

“I donate 10% of my profit to cheer for kids that

says. And going the extra mile is important. “I

may not be able to afford the cost of cheer. Last

want to ensure that my customers are satisfied

December, I donated 25 bars of soap as a care

and happy with what they purchase. I put a lot of

package for the military troops overseas.”

time and effort into making sure my products are

She has also recently helped out with several

elite. I pour my heart and soul into my products.”

relief funds set up for the victims of the Arizona

Escobar knows she isn’t making Homemade

wildfires, including communities of Strawberry

Soap by Lex a success alone. “I am blessed to

and Pine. “I feel it is important to give back to

have a wonderful support system,” she explains.

those in need in the community when you are

Her family is involved in her venture. Her par-

able to do so.”

ents and her older brother enjoy doing things

You can look for Homemade Soap by Lex

together. Off-roading in her dad’s Can-Am ATV

at local retail pop-ups in the West Valley and

is a favorite pastime when she’s not cheering

you can always purchase products online at

and making soap.

HomemadeSoapByLex.com.

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

WEALTH MANAGEMENT | RETIREMENT PLANNING

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29

Servicing exceptional properties in some of the most sought-after neighborhoods 623.910.2218 WWW.STACYDRAGOS .COM

@STACYDRAGOSAZ

REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD

REALTY REPORT

NORTH PEORIA

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

9963 W VILLA LINDO DR Melton Ranch1

$1,900,000

$1,620,000

85%

111

4

6

30892 N 118th LN Blackstone at Vistancia

$1,750,000

$1,550,000

89%

141

5

4.5

5401 W CREEDANCE BLVD Saddleback Hills

$1,475,000

$1,475,000

100%

46

6

5

10124 W STAGHORN RD Coyote Canyon Estates

$1,350,000

$1,375,000

102%

19

4

3.5

11323 W YEARLING RD

$1,079,900

$1,080,000

100%

92

5

4.5

30271 N 117TH DR Blackstone at Vistancia

$1,080,000

$1,065,000

98%

109

3

2.5

21723 N 61ST AVE Hamilton Arrowhead Ranch3

$1,070,000

$1,053,000

98%

119

6

4.5

10331 W CALLE LEJOS AVE

$994,900

$1,014,900

102%

6

3

3.5

27512 N 85TH DR Westwing Mountain

$989,000

$1,000,000

101%

90

4

3.5

5315 W ELECTRA LN Saddleback Hills

$900,000

$952,250

106%

44

5

3

T h inkin g of s e llin g b u t ca n’ t f in d a h om e?

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It’s a sizzling hot seller ’s market. Find out how high your home could sell for! Conf idential, no obligation, expert analysis.

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CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

31

AUGUST

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

8

FRIDAYS

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

SUMMER FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY

through the 8th

and Bell

Arizona Broadway Theatre, runs

The

Broadway

smash

THROUGH SEPT 5

Desert Financial Credit Union at 79th

musical,

Every

Friday

night

all

summer

THE SPITFIRE GRILL

Arizona Broadway Theatre

Little Shop of Horrors, has been

you can discover a different food

With its roots in blues and folk music,

delighting

decades.

truck! From 6 to 9 pm in the Desert

The Spitfire Grill is a musical triumph

An alien species of plant makes

Financial Credit Union parking lot at

that celebrates second chances and

Seymour's wildest dreams come

17445 N. 79th Avenue.

the lasting impact one person can

for

three

true as long as he feeds them

make in a life. Showing at The Encore

blood. Showing on the MainStage.

Room at Arizona Broadway Theatre.

AZBroadway.org

SATURDAYS

AZBroadway.org

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS

ARROWHEAD FARMERS MARKET

13

Arrowhead Towne Center

Every Saturday from 8 to 11 am, discover

fresh

produce,

local

meat, baked goods, raw honey,

PADDLEBOARD GLOW TOURS

COWBOYS V. CARDINALS State Farm Stadium

and more. Local artisans also on

Football season returns and the Arizona

Scorpion Bay Marina at Lake Pleasant

hand. Join the fun in the upper-

Cardinals face off against the Dallas

Lake Pleasant glows every Friday

level Dillards parking lot. Food

Cowboys in the first pre-season game

and Saturday night! Rent an LED-

trucks offer bites from around

of 2021. StateFarmStadium.com

equipped paddle board and take

town. Free admission. Cash and

to the lake. Great evening tour

credit

of the lake to watch the sunset.

online at GetLocalArizonaEvents.

Ages 18 and over. Reservations

com/SaturdayMarket/.

accepted.

Local

lineup

required by calling Desert Lotus

PAWS 2 READ

Paddle Boards at 623.826.6927.

10

ScorpionBayAZ.com

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS STANDUP COMEDY

Sunrise Mountain Library

PAWS 2 Read gives the little ones a chance to read aloud to therapy dogs

UNDERSTAND YOUR APPLE DEVICES

to help them develop reading skills.

Kids have a chance over 90 minutes

Sunrise Mountain Library

to interact with the therapy dogs and

Wish you better understood your

the dog owners and practice reading

Apple iPhone and iPad? Then this

with confidence.

class is for you. Spend one hour

Stir Crazy Comedy Club

exploring

Comedians, standup comics and

mobile apps, reading books and

impersonators

audi-

magazines, and listening to books

ences every Friday and Saturday

and music. Bring your device

at Stir Crazy Comedy Club in

and any cords you need. Free,

Westgate

District.

but registration is required at

Two shows each night. Buy tickets

library.peoriaaz.gov or by calling

online. StirCrazyComedyClub.com

623.773.8650.

entertain

Entertainment

14

apps,

photos,

using

17 UNDERSTAND YOUR ANDROID DEVICES

Sunrise Mountain Library

Wish you better understood your Android devices? Then this class is for you. Spend one hour exploring apps, photos, using mobile

32

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

apps, reading books and magazines, and listening to books and music. Bring your device and any cords you need. Free, but registration is required at library.peoriaaz.gov or by calling 623.773.8650.

19 FIRST AID FOR YOUR PETS

E H T JOIN !

Y L I M A F

Rio Vista Recreation Center

The City of Peoria wants to help you love your pet! A hands-on training program, endorsed by the ASPCA, includes pet CPR, chocking, and basic first aid treatment. Open to everyone age 14 and over. Pre-register at peoriaaz.gov/recreation. Cost is $50 for residents, $45 for non-residents, and includes certification.

20 CHIEFS V. CARDINALS State Farm Stadium

DAY 7 R U YO T R AY !

A D T S O T TRIAL

The pre-season football matchups continue in week two with the Arizona Cardinals taking on the Kansas City Chiefs at State Farm Stadium. StateFarmStadium.com

24 HARRY STYLES LOVE ON TOUR 2021

ARROWHEAD

Gila River Arena

British pop star Harry Styles of the popular boy band One Direction performs at Gila River Arena as part of Love on Tour 2021. Performing songs from his second album, Fine Line, Styles features special guest Jenny Lewis. GilaRiverArena.com

26 WEST VALLEY BIZ 2 BIZ EXPO 2021 Glendale Civic Center

Free business event hosted by all six West Valley Chambers of Commerce. You can explore 93 businesses brought together to showcase their products and services.

Attend between 4 and 7 pm to find out what is happening in the West Valley. Cash bar and events. No RSVP needed.

TEAM TRAINING » LIFE CHANGING

Functional Fitness in a Fun and Energetic Environment led by Certified Personal Trainers 45 UNIQUE PROGRAMS 45 MINUTE WORKOUT EXPERIENCES

INNOVATION. MOTIVATION. RESULTS

623.254.7080 f45training.com/arrowhead 7507 West Rose Garden Lane Glendale · AZ 85308 CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

33

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE JENNIFER ANDERSON MSPH RDN

TE AC H I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LTH Y

AS PARENTS, ONE OF OUR BIGGEST PRIORITIES

IS ENSURING THAT OUR KIDS ARE GETTING THE NUTRIENTS THEY NEED. But getting them to eat their

fruits and vegetables isn’t always easy, especially if your kids are picky eaters like many seem to be.

Let’s talk about the benefits of introducing healthy

food to your kids at an early age. Read on to find helpful information about feeding picky eaters.

3 T I P S F O R G E T T I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LT H Y F O O D S Real Easy

MAKE SNACKS AND MEALTIME FUN

Weekdays

We all know that kids like to play and have fun, so why not make food fun? Whether you’re turning broccoli into a microphone at dinner, or playing tic-tac-toe with edible carrot sticks, kids get into it.

DON’T GIVE UP Parents often assume that if a child doesn’t eat a food the first or second time it’s served, the child doesn’t like the food. Many children may

Meal Plan

G R E E K YO G U R T RANCH DIP This goes great with raw veggies like celery,

need to see or taste a food 10 or 20 times before they are willing to eat it.

carrots, broccoli, snap peas, cauliflower, or any

FORCING HEALTHY FOODS ON KIDS OFTEN BACKFIRES

great with whole-grain crackers and pita chips!

veggie your kids might like raw. It also goes

Often, making a child eat food or eat a certain amount of food backfires. It may backfire in the short run by making a child more

INGREDIENTS

selective and less likely to eat the foods you want them to eat.

+ ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt + ½ to 1 Tablespoon of Trader Joe’s Onion

S TA R T H E A LT H Y H A B I T S E A R LY

Salt (alternatives include Ranch dressing mix, onion salt, or a combination of onion powder and garlic powder)

The key takeaway here is to introduce healthy foods to your child at an early age. Be patient with your pickiest of eaters, and re-intro-

METHOD

duce a food several times. Stick with it; their long-term health habits

1. Mix Greek yogurt with seasoning. Serve.

depend on it!

34

North Peoria Lifestyle | August 2021

If you or someone you care about is suffering from pain and tension, we are here to help you find relief.

Mitchell Chiropractic specializes in holistic all-natural wellness care for you and your family.

49

$

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL

Complete Consultation Chiropractic Evaluation X-Rays (if needed) Report of Findings

www.mitchellchiropracticaz.com

Call (623) 878-8200 to schedule an appointment with Mitchell Chiropractic, where your health matters!

9844 W. Yearling Road Ste D1100, Peoria, AZ 85383

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Servicing exceptional properties in some of the most sought-after neighborhoods 623.910.2218 WWW.STACYDRAGOS .COM @STACYDRAGOSAZ