North Peoria, AZ May 2024

May — Celebrate Women

Welcome to May! I always look forward to this issue, which focuses on women. I grew up surrounded by strong women. Although my mom is no longer alive, she still inspires me daily, as does my grandmother, who was the first woman who told me to follow my passion for writing.

I'm lucky to work with a great team of strong women at North Peoria Lifestyle. We appreciate each other's strengths, encourage each other, and support our individual passions. This makes creating this magazine inspiring every month.

But it's not just about our team. The North Peoria community is full of amazing women, many of whom are featured in this issue. From the dedicated caregivers who go above and beyond for their patients to the entrepreneurs shaping our local economy, these women are the backbone of our community.

I'm honored to be included in this month's article on military moms. I share the same passion as all the military moms throughout our community who send their children off to a calling greater than themselves.

I also want to encourage you to read the article about Mariah's Miracle. This one touched me in so many ways. These women are making a difference in our community, and they could use your help. I have a grandson with special needs, and having organizations that helped with adaptive technologies and therapies changed his life. A child who was never supposed to live to see his 13th birthday is now 19, largely due to organizations like Mariah's Miracle that provided tools and therapies to make his life great. This is the kind of impact your support can have.

Embrace the women in your life this month—mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, daughter, granddaughter, coworker, or friend. She will welcome your love. It's those bonds that strengthen our community and bring joy to our lives.

SUSAN

LANIER-GRAHAM,

MANAGING EDITOR @NORTHPEORIALIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Julie LaCroix julie.lacroix@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Susan Lanier-Graham susan.lanier-graham@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Nichole Eckman nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Nichole Eckman nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jen David jen.david@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Mimi Slawoff mslawoff@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nichole Eckman, Angel Fuchs, Susan Lanier-Graham, Gretchen Pahia, Penny Sadler, Rebecca Taig

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Nichole Eckman, Rebecca Taig

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

1: Groundbreaking ceremony for Trailhead in North Peoria. 2: The Arizona Salsa Fest in March was a celebration of Arizona's culinary heritage and culture. 3: Peace & Love was the theme for the 2024 TheaterWorks gala fundraiser in Peoria.

Brunch is

GATHER THE GALS AND HEAD TO ONE OF THESE BEST WEST VALLEY BRUNCH HOTSPOTS

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA

Photo by Nichole Eckman

HASH KITCHEN

An exciting brunch experience awaits at either of the two West Valley locations—Park West or P83. Hash Kitchen recently launched a new cocktail menu with several new options, including The Stan, which is a mix of Pimm’s No. 1, lemon, ginger beer, cucumber slices, and strawberries. Order the Cannoli Donuts or Bread Pudding French Toast Sticks. HashKitchen.com

OVER EASY

Check out the fresh flavors at this favorite breakfast spot in North Glendale. Try the new Totchos: crispy tater tots, bacon, and sausage topped with scratch country gravy and cheese sauce. Also, the Monte Cristo has shaved ham and Swiss between slices of brioche, battered and griddled French toast style. Served with maple syrup and house-made jam. EatAtOverEasy.com

HAYMAKER

Haymaker is a must-try with three locations, including one in North Peoria. Order the Fruity Pebbles French toast, glazed and dusted with Fruity Pebbles Dust for a sweet bite. Haymaker also offers specialty cocktails, including Bloody Marys and Mimosas, which are perfect for brunch with the girls. HaymakerAZ.com

CONTINUED

Photo courtesy Haymaker

Photo by Nichole Eckman

Photo courtesy The Maggiore Group

THE VIG PARK WEST

The VIG, in the heart of the Park West Shopping Center, is a wonderful place to meet girlfriends. You cannot go wrong with the Classic Breakfast, which includes two eggs any style, VIG potatoes, grilled country bread, and a choice of protein. Also, order a build-your-own Mimosa or try a specialty brunch cocktail. TheVIG.us

MOCHILERO KITCHEN

This North Peoria favorite is a unique spot to grab brunch. Menu items include Churro Waffles. This tasty dish has two Belgian waffles with cinnamon sugar, macerated berries, Abuelita-Nutella chocolate sauce, lechera caramel sauce, coconut, and almond crumble. There are also several boozy brunch cocktails, including a Mexican Old Fashioned or a Cantaloupe Tajin Martini. MochileroKitchen.com

THE STETSON SOCIAL

One of the newest brunch spots in Peoria offers its take on classic breakfast dishes. Try the French Toast made from Texas toast, spiced cream cheese frosting, spiced pecans, and maple syrup. Breakfast booze options include flavored mimosas such as prickly pear, blood orange, raspberry, and strawberry. TheStetsonSocial.com

Photo courtesy The VIG

Photo courtesy Mochilero Kitchen

Limoncello Spritz

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA TAIG

A Fun New Twist on the Classic Aperol Spritz

Limoncello Spritz is a perfect warmweather cocktail. It is a light, bright take on a classic Aperol spritz made with Italian Limoncello—a liqueur made from sunny Italian lemons. The fizz of the Prosecco and the sweet and zesty lemons create a refreshing drink, transporting you to an Italian village.  Pair your limoncello spritz with a simple Caprese Salad for an ideal Mother's Day treat. This recipe is from North Peoria resident Rebecca Taig. Find gluten-free recipes, hosting inspiration, and seasonal decor at RebeccaTaig.com.

ingredients:

• 2 ounces Limoncello

• 3 ounces Prosecco

• 1 ounce Soda Water

• Lemon Slices and Mint Leaves for garnish

directions:

1. Pour it all in . Fill a wine glass half full with ice and pour in the limoncello. Top with Prosecco and soda water. Stir to combine.

2. Garnish. Add lemon slices and a fresh sprig of mint, basil, or thyme for garnish. Serve immediately.

G U A RDIANSOFVALOR

For many moms, seeing their children join the armed forces invokes a deep sense of pride, honor, and even a little uncertainty. While the thought of their child in harm's way can be agonizing, there's an undeniable pride military moms have, knowing they raised children who are contributing to something greater than themselves. The sacrifice of a military mom is great and often unrecognized as she bravely supports her child's service while feeling constant worry.

Meet three military mothers whose children chose a life of service dedicated to the U.S. military.

MILITARY MOMS ON THE FRONTLINES OF LOVE AND SACRIFICE

ARTICLE BY ANGEL FUCHS

Dalila Brokaw

Brokaw never imagined her children would join the military. “I'm originally from Brazil,” she says. “I don't come from a military family.”

So it was a surprise when her son, Christian, 20, and daughter, Rachael, 18, joined the armed forces.

Brokaw has always been close with her children. She was involved throughout their school years and maintains that close relationship now that they are both in the military.

Christian joined the Marines when he turned 18. He is now a diesel mechanic stationed in San Diego. “I am so proud of him,” says Brokaw. “Every time he visits me, he brings a new medal to show me.”

Following in her older brother's military footsteps, Rachael also enlisted at 18. “Rachael is smart; she received a scholarship to NAU but wants to travel and see the world, so she joined the Navy instead.”

Brokaw relates how Rachael loved boot camp. She was quickly promoted to platoon leader.

“I was sad when they decided to leave to join the military. It was scary and painful, but I am so proud of them,” says Brokaw. “I brag about them all the time. I raised two heroes.”

Susan Lanier-Graham

Lanier-Graham, the managing editor of North Peoria Lifestyle, comes from a long line of military. Despite that, it was a surprise when her son, Patrick, now 40, joined the Army a few years after completing culinary school.

“My father and father-in-law were Navy,” explains LanierGraham. “I have six uncles who served, plus several cousins. My husband joined the Air Force in 1983, right after we married. But seeing my son join the military was still hard.”

Patrick served ten years in the U.S. Army as a medical lab technician. “He joined during Operation Iraqi Freedom, so I was always worried he would be deployed,” says Lanier-Graham.

Although Patrick never served overseas, he frequently spent long deployments away from his family, which was a challenge for his wife Kamilla and their five children.

"The military isn't easy on the service member or the family," says Lanier-Graham.

She recently learned that the legacy of military service will continue to the next generation. Her grandson has joined the U.S. Navy and will leave after graduation this summer.

“He’s only 17,” explains Lanier-Graham, “so I worry about him, but as with my son, I’m proud of his decision.”

Susan Lanier-Graham with her son, Patrick.

Photo courtesy Susan Lanier-Graham

Christine Andert

Andert is a long-time Peoria resident and the mother of two boys, Christopher, 28, and Michael, 23. Andert is a successful businesswoman and owner of The Picture Lady Photography.

When her son Christopher was about 12 years old, he suffered a devastating injury while playing hockey. “We needed to refocus him at that time,” says Andert. “And that was with music.”

Music soon became a driving force in Christopher's formative years, and he was adamant about making a career out of his passion.

“One day, he called and asked if he could use my (photo) studio to record a demo reel,” she said. That demo reel was an audition for Old Ironsides, the First Armored Division Band based out of Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas.

“Having a son join the Army was the farthest thing from my mind, and when he first told me he was joining, of course, I was worried because there is potential for him to be sent to locations of conflict,” Andert says. “But I am so proud of his dedication and hard work. He is doing something he truly loves.”

Christine Andert with her son, Christopher. Photo courtesy Christine Andert

• Feel full quicker and longer

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with

Lynch

Franchela FRANCO

EMPOWERING DIVERSITY THROUGH FASHION AND COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY NICHOLE ECKMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MUJERES OF ALL SHADES

Franchela Franco, a renowned fashion model, stylist, and founder of Mujeres of All Shades (M.O.A.S), brings a burst of color and empowerment to Arizona. “I think color’s also like a rebellious moment.”

Born and raised in the US Virgin Islands, Franco’s Afro-Latina heritage was pivotal in shaping her identity and bold, vibrant style. As she embarked on her fashion career, Franco used fashion to express her culture and empower others.

“I wear color, and I motivate women to wear color,” Franco states. “Maybe it’s not specifically cultural, but a statement of be bold, be yourself.”

In 2021, Franco officially launched Mujeres of All Shades (MujeresOfAllShades.com), driven by her desire to create a community where women could feel beautiful, supported, and empowered.

“I want all women to feel welcome and invited,” Franco states. “And then the whole point is that I want people to learn about other people’s cultures.”

Franco’s passion and determination fueled M.O.A.S.’s growth. From hosting the first photo shoot last summer to curating vibrant events encouraging women to embrace their colorful side and individuality, Franco’s vision has resonated deeply with women.

“Our mission is to empower women of all shades around the world,” Franco

explains. “And our vision is to build a community of women with strong faith.”

Through M.O.A.S., Franco offers more than just fashion advice. “As women, people are always telling us to tone it down,” she explains.

So, instead, she provides a platform for women to find their voices, build confidence, and support one another. From networking events and styling consultations to personal branding workshops, Franco’s commitment to empowering women is endless.

Franco’s journey is a testament to embracing one’s roots and fostering inclusivity. Through her work with Mujeres of All Shades, she reshapes the fashion landscape and inspires women to embrace their uniqueness and shine brightly.

JET PLASMA PEN TREATMENTS

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOUR SEASONS RESORT

Girlfriend Getaway The Ultimate

I have been visiting Los Cabos for years, but this was my first resort stay on the East Cape, known for its incredible marine life. Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palma (FourSeasons.com/loscabos/) opened about five years ago and is the East Cape's first and only luxury resort and golf course.

Situated on the Sea of Cortez, about an hour north of San José del Cabo International Airport, the resort is an oasis of quiet luxury. Don't expect the Cabo crowds here. This is a retreat where you can enjoy amazing dining, lazy spa days, multiple pools, swimming in the Sea of Cortez, and ample time to enjoy what Jacques Cousteau called "The Aquarium of the World."

GETTING TO THE FOUR SEASONS

This is an easy international getaway from Phoenix. You can hop on the twice-daily American Airlines flight to Cabo and arrive in Mexico in two hours.

When you exit the clean, modern airport, your Four Seasons driver will be waiting to whisk you away in a Cadillac Escalade to the resort. The drive on paved roads takes about an hour. Once you pass through the unassuming gate, you enter a world of peace and tranquility. The staff greets you in the open-air lobby with a refreshing drink and then escorts you to your room.

LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS

Various room options exist depending on your group size. Many of the rooms have plunge pools and ocean views. We stayed in the Sunrise 2-bedroom suite with a plunge pool. This magnificent groundfloor suite with wrap-around windows afforded us gorgeous sunrise views over the Sea of Cortez. We loved the plunge pool and walking directly out to the beach. The rooms are impeccably decorated in muted tones, reflecting the property's quiet luxury and letting nature be the star.

Other accommodation options vary from an oceanfront room with a plunge pool to a 3-bedroom beachfront presidential villa.

ENJOY FRESH FLAVORS

You will not go hungry during your stay. We started our visit with fresh ceviche at El Puesto, a poolside eatery. We enjoyed afternoon churros at Ginger's and had incredible, fresh Mexican flavors for lunch at Casa de Brasa.

estiatorio Milos, founded by Chef Costas Spiliadis, has locations worldwide. The restaurant serves breakfast, dinner, and late-night drinks in the open-air lounge. We enjoyed late-night drinks by the firepit and breakfast overlooking the water.

A highlight for me was taking the 5-minute water taxi to Marina Village for dinner at acclaimed chef Nancy Silverton's Mozza Baja. The traditional Italian fare is scrumptious. After dinner, walk behind Mozza to Chiki. With its dazzling array of colors, this eclectic night spot serves great cocktails. And there's music for dancing.

ENDLESS ACTIVITIES

Enjoy an array of exciting land and water activities: snorkeling in the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Marine Site, taking a waterfall hike in the mountains, off-roading through the desert, or taking a sunset cruise. At the resort, tee off on the 18-hole golf course or luxuriate in the spa.

This is definitely the ultimate girlfriend getaway!

Q&A With Female Entrepreneur Lauren Theobald

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY FACE FOUNDRIÉ PARK WEST

THE FACE FOUNDRIÉ FRANCHISE OWNER BRINGS JOY TO HER CUSTOMERS

I am a FACE FOUNDRÍE fan (FaceFOUNDRIE.com).

The estheticians there are always caring, compassionate, and well-informed about skin care. I’ve had everything from simple brow tinting to the new Royal Treatment, FACE FOUNDRÍE’s most elevated, comprehensive service.

After such great experiences, I wanted to learn more about FACE FOUNDRÍE. I contacted Lauren Theobald, the owner of the Park West franchise, to learn more about her vision and why she chose Peoria for one of her two franchise locations in the Phoenix area.

TELL ME A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW YOU ENDED UP IN ARIZONA.

Growing up in Minnesota, I’m a Midwest girl through and through. I’m also a third-generation female entrepreneur. I graduated with a degree in marketing and economics and pursued my marketing career at a small

business in the Twin Cities area. That’s where I found my love for small business. I grew with that business as it was acquired, which transitioned into my corporate career as Director of Marketing. Almost 10 years ago, we moved to North Peoria to be closer to family and raise our children.

I found myself wishing for the early days of my career and the thrill of growing a small business and a team! I knew I wanted to do something that would bring others joy, impact the local community, and support other small businesses in the area. The opportunity to launch FACE FOUNDRIÉ in the Southwest checked all of those boxes for me!

WHAT DREW YOU TO FACE FOUNDRIÉ, AND WHY THE PARK WEST LOCATION?

I fell in love with FACE FOUNDRIÉ because of its mission of bringing affordable and approachable skincare to everyone! Joining FACE FOUNDRIÉ and leaving the corporate world was a huge risk. I believe this company will change how people see skincare—it’s no longer an unattainable luxury. Everyone should feel comfortable and beautiful without a filter and do so at an affordable price.

I love the West Valley and saw a huge opportunity for small businesses to fill a gap in the community with curated, high-end, boutique-style, locally-owned businesses.

WHAT SETS FACE FOUNDRIÉ APART FROM OTHER PLACES THAT OFFER FACIALS?

FACE FOUNDRIÉ is truly an elevated experience. Everyone who walks in the door can expect kindness, compassion, and expert guidance to achieve their skin goals. We offer affordable and effective services for all things face: facials, brows, lashes, and expert guidance on skincare. We’re open seven days a week to accommodate anyone’s schedule!

FACE FOUNDRIÉ invests heavily in continuous training for our estheticians. When our clients visit us, they know their experience will feel like we rolled out the red carpet, from custom aromatherapy and weighted blankets to chocolate at the end of every service. Plus, we offer a place where everyone feels welcome no matter where they’re at in their journey with their skin. We aim to make our clients feel better leaving than when they arrive.

DO YOU OFFER MEMBERSHIPS?

We offer a monthly Facial Maven membership, which includes a Focused Facial plus any enhancements for $89.

I RECENTLY TRIED THE ROYAL TREATMENT, FACE FOUNDRÍE’S MOST ELEVATED, COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT THAT AND SOME OF THE OTHER TREATMENTS YOU OFFER?

The Royal Treatment begins with a True Facial Cleanse™ using advanced AquaPeel technology. The device uses the

LAUREN THEOBALD

AquaPeel handpiece to purge, vacuum, exfoliate, and infuse serums into the skin. The treatment includes a hot-cold wand, ultrasound, radio frequency, and a microcurrent. The result is a non-invasive mini facelift.

We offer 40-minute curated Focused Facials that include the Cryo Queen, Sculpt, Clean + Natural, and our signature FOUNDRIÉ Glow. Each service targets specific concerns, but we also have a list of enhancements that can further customize each individual treatment. Our most booked enhancements include Dermaplaning, BioEffect Hydrating Mask, LED treatments, and a Scalp Massage. We also offer Next-Level Facials (40-50-minute services) like the H2Glow powered by Hydrafacial, the Firm AF, and the Royal Treatment.

For anyone visiting us for the first time, we offer North Peoria Lifestyle readers 15% off their first services with us! Use code North Peoria when booking.

Mariah's Miracle

HELPING ARIZONA KIDS HONORS

THE MEMORY OF A LOVING MOM

ARTICLE BY PENNY SADLER

Mariah's Miracle co-founders, Teri Roberts and Sharon McGarvey Mariah's Miracle recipient Ruthie at last year's Pancake Breakfast

Arizona Orthopedic Physical Therapy and Kids Place (AzOPT) is a pediatric therapy clinic in the West Valley that enhances children’s lives through occupational, speech, and physical therapy. (AzOPT.net/kidsplace)

Many of the children have special medical needs. The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates that of the 18% of children across the country with special medical needs, one in four has functional limitations requiring medical equipment like wheelchairs, medical beds, van modifications, cranial helmets, and more. Often, families wait up to a year to know if their insurance will cover the additional costs, often to be denied.

To address this issue and extend the helping hand that can make a difference in the development of these children, Mariah’s Miracle (MariahsMiracle.org) was co-founded in 2020 by AzOPT owner Teri Roberts and Sharon McGarvey.

A CRUSADER FOR CHILDREN

Roberts and McGarvey founded Mariah's Miracle to carry on the work of Mariah DeVries, who, shortly after the birth of her daughter, Clara, lost her battle with an aggressive cancer at age 26. DeVries worked with Roberts at Kids Place West and was McGarvey's daughter.

DeVries, who held a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University, was a tireless worker who would not accept that the kids she worked with often could not get the equipment they needed for therapy or to improve their quality of life, especially in cases where early intervention could have life-changing effects.

DeVries worked to lift some of the burden for children and their families by writing letters, helping to fill out insurance paperwork, and acting as an advocate.

A LONG-TIME DREAM BECOMES REALITY

Roberts explains that before DeVries' cancer diagnosis, the two were already brainstorming ways to help families and kids get the financial assistance they needed. It seemed appropriate to form Mariah's Miracle to honor DeVries.

MariahDeVries

Since its founding, through events and community donations, Mariah’s Miracle has raised over $250,000 and helped 47 children, giving them a quality of life that could have been lost without the additional funds.

HOW MARIAH'S MIRACLE HELPS WEST VALLEY CHILDREN

Mariah’s Miracle not only helps children with their physical development but also allows them to find their independence and joy so they can live to their maximum potential.

Recent projects have included modifying a wheelchair, providing cranial helmets, augmentative communication devices, and an adaptive handcycle. The organization also provides aid to offset costly medical bills while overseeing the process of ordering medical equipment, taking the guesswork away from families and parents who need that support. Any family in Arizona can apply for assistance.

GETTING INVOLVED IN MARIAH'S MIRACLE

The organization is run entirely by volunteers, including DeVries' mother, McGarvey, who is Vice-President and Treasurer. McGarvey emphasized that the West Valley community has been instrumental in Mariah’s Miracle's success. Despite her daughter's tragic death, she is enthusiastic about the organization's growth and the realization of her daughter’s dream.

Fundraising events include an annual 5K run, cornhole tournament, and pancake breakfast. In November 2024, Mariah’s Miracle will host the first annual Golf Tournament at Pueblo El Mirage Golf Course.

Roberts wants community members outside AzOPT to become a part of Mariah’s Miracle.

Assistance with event planning, marketing, and community outreach are just a few areas where the nonprofit would welcome assistance. As the organization grows, community assistance will ensure that Mariah’s Miracle's vision to “help everyone” is realized.

LEARN MORE: Mariah's Miracle, founded to honor Mariah DeVries, is helping Arizona kids one at a time by providing children with equipment or therapy services that insurance does not otherwise provide.

Take the proactive step of securing their future by helping them establish essential health care directives and powers of attorney. These documents appoint a trusted individual to make important financial and medical decisions for your parents, should they face incapacity. Your support in forming this fundamental part of their estate plan today will ensure their comfort and protection tomorrow.

Mann Attorney at Law

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE MOON SALOON

OUT OF THIS WORLD

THE MOON SALOON CELEBRATES SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY IN MAY

A long-revered Peoria neighborhood bar and grill is celebrating being a part of the community for over 20 years this month.

The Moon Saloon (TheMoonSaloon.com), located in P83, opened back in 2003. At that time, the area was in the infancy stages of development. “Eighty-third Avenue was still developing from orange groves, and other local businesses were mostly chains, so we provided a muchneeded local warmth and feel that the neighborhood was lacking,” says owner Brian Butler.

“In our 21 years, we've shared a Cubs World Series and multiple Blackhawks Stanley Cup championships. All of these build a bond with the community.”

Originally from Chicago, Butler wanted to open a place where Chicago sports fans could watch their beloved teams. Unbeknownst to Butler at the time, the area was highly populated with Midwesterners and Chicago transplants, so The Moon Saloon became a must-visit spot.

DINING AT THE MOON SALOON

The menu is bar food but not your typical bar food. “We take pride in our menu and what we serve,” says Butler.

Most of the menu items are made from scratch. They even make their pizza dough.

According to Butler, they are just taking that extra step to make the food the best around. For example, “handmade hamburger patties, fresh and never-frozen chicken wings, and seasonal menu items that change throughout the year.”

A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

To celebrate more than two decades in Peoria, The Moon Saloon will host a week-long celebration from May 13-19, with a huge party on Saturday, May 18th. There will be vendors with giveaways and other promotional items during the week.

THE MOON SALOON GOAL

For Butler, the restaurant's mission is simple. “We can offer something to everyone. We serve great food at a reasonable price, show every sport available to cater to all fans, and are committed to treating each guest as if they are in our home.”

Mom's fave SUV

The 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek 4WD is the ultimate SUV for family fun and adventure. You have all the comfort and luxury of the Pathfinder Platinum but with a tubular roof rack, 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, four-wheel drive, and extra ground clearance.  I drove the Rock Creek for a week, and I hated returning this vehicle. It’s extremely comfortable, feels sturdy on the road, and is great on dirt roads during a weekend in the mountains.

FAMILY FUN AWAITS WITH THE 2024 NISSAN PATHFINDER ROCK CREEK

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NISSAN MOTOR CORPORATION

Nissan Pathfinder RockCreek

Under the Hood / The Pathfinder Rock Creek has enough get-up-and-go to let you drive with confidence. It has a 3.5L DOHC 24-valve 6-cylinder engine with 295hp. The 9-speed automatic transmission handles well, and you can easily switch between drive and terrain modes. The Rock Creek also has a tow hitch with a 6,000-lb capacity.  Comfort and Technology/ I love a comfortable car and am also a tech geek. The Rock Creek satisfied both of those needs for me. The 10-way power driver seat has power lumbar support. The 12.3-inch digital dashboard, large head-up display, and Intelligent Around View Monitor made driving easy. Load the family into the three rows of seats, crank up the Bose audio system, open the panoramic moonroof, and sink into those leather seats for a great drive.

MSRP: $43,630 ($45,700 as tested) | 20 MPG City/23 MPG Highway

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 3RD - JUNE 1ST

A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder

Arizona Broadway Theatre | 5:30 PM

Experience the Tony Award-winning musical sensation! Prepare to be captivated by a riveting blend of dark humor and eccentric characters as Lord Montague recounts his cunning plot to eliminate his relatives and claim his rightful inheritance. With unforgettable melodies and standout performances, this is an evening of laughter you won't want to miss. Purchase tickets online at AZBroadway.org

MAY 4TH

Park West After Dark

Park West | 6:00 PM

Experience the excitement of the Park West Summer Market under the stars! Head to Park West every 1st Saturday from May through September, from 6 pm to 9 pm. Discover various vendors, featuring over 100 small businesses and food trucks, while enjoying live music. Visit TheParkWestMarket.com for details.

MAY 5TH

Bouquets and Bubbles

Peoria Sports Complex | 2:00 PM

Join the Peoria Florist from 2 to 4 p.m. for a fantastic flower-arranging session, champagne, and appetizers! Connect with new friends as you learn from an expert designer to create two beautiful arrangements. Secure your spot online at PeoriaFlorist.net

MAY 9TH

Aventura

Desert Diamond Arena | 8:00 PM

Don't miss the final tour, "Cerrando Ciclos," as Romeo Santos joins Aventura in Glendale on May 9! With their groundbreaking fusion of modern rhythms and the authentic essence of bachata, they've won millions of fans worldwide. Don't miss this mustsee tour! Purchase tickets online at DesertDiamondArena.com

MAY 12TH

Peoria Cars & Coffee

Lowe’s Parking Lot | 8:00 AM

Join fellow motorsports and coffee enthusiasts every second Sunday of the month from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Discover some of the hottest rides and top clubs showcasing their cars. Each week, they come together to shine a light on local businesses, charities, and community services in Peoria. At the Northeast corner of Lake Pleasant Parkway and Happy Valley Road. CarsCoffeePeoria.com

MAY 18TH

Tortoise and Hare Ice Cream Run

Tortoise & Hare Sports, Arrowhead 7:00 AM

Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun 3 mile run/walk and kids 1/2 mile event. This event features Brewster's Ice Cream at the finish line. Your participation will benefit the local nonprofit AZ Foster Alliance as we'll be donating shoes to local kids in foster care. 7 to 9:30 a.m. 17570 N 75th Ave. TortoiseandHareSports.com/events/ to register.

“A year after my surgery I was still experiencing pain and numbness. Physical therapy had helped to a point, but I still wasn't able to resume my normal training without aggravating my back and being forced to limit my activity. Dr. Mitchell and his team immediately identified the problem areas and came up with a treatment plan. After the first visit, I had significant relief and have seen continuous improvement since then.”

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

Our Favorite Gifts for Gals

SPECIAL GIFTS FOR THE SPECIAL WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE

Paperblanks Journal

The Paperblanks Morris Pink Honeysuckle hardcover journal with lined paper is ideal for creative journaling. The 5” x 7” journal design is inspired by a William Morris printed cotton honeysuckle motif. $22 PenHeaven.com

Arden Cove Crissy Full Crossbody

Travel in style and comfort with this cross-body designed by two California sisters. It is slash-proof and features water-resistant fabric and zippers, RFID-blocking, locking clasps, and vegan leather. $169 ArdenCove.com

Tequila Cocktail Cards A-Z

Whether you’re crafting cocktails for Cinco de Mayo or whipping up something for a poolside party, these cards feature A to Z cocktails you can make with tequila. $16.99  SimonAndSchuster.com or Amazon.com

Luxury CRISTEL Cookware

CRISTEL cookware, designed in France by chefs, is a gourmand’s dream. The 5-ply stainless stewpot has a stainless steel lid. It includes interior measurement markings, stay-cool handles, and self-basting lids. $239.99 CristelUSA.com

Pickled Pink Travel Pouch

The custom quilted pouch features a fun pickleball paddle pattern. Small enough to fit inside a bigger bag but big enough for a sports towel and phone. $48 Courtgirl.com