A Time for Joy + Giving
December—A Time for Giving
LOCAL is the word for the season here in North Peoria. As we shop for the perfect gifts for our family and friends, let’s remember the many amazing local shops in our neighborhood.
Remember, the charm of our local boutiques like 85 Local, Sunstone Boutique, and Signatures Gifts is unmatched. Don’t miss out on their unique offerings as you shop local this season. And of course, let's not forget our local restaurants!
Our local purveyors have added so much color and content to our plates and shopping baskets. Their risk-taking has enriched our community. Let's show our appreciation this season, for they give to us all year. Remember, shopping local is not just a transaction, it's a way of giving back to our community!
Speaking of giving, I want to highlight an extraordinary man I have recently come to know. Dave Mitchell sits on a board with me and has recently become part of this magazine. As I get to know Dave, I realize he always gives back to his community. He is the sponsor of every event that he and I both attend. He is the one raffling off beautiful baskets filled with high-end goodies. He is the one sponsoring the Vitalant blood drive. He is the one introducing me to new people. He is the one hosting meetings. I have never met someone so authentically generous and thoughtful in his business ecosystem.
I asked Dave what his magic was. He said it was spiritual, and “doing the right thing all the time” was in his heart. Dave Mitchell certainly inspires me to give more to my community this season and think hard about touching even more lives in a positive way.
I hope Dave inspires you, too! Let’s make giving a special part of everything we do this season.
JULIE LACROIX, PUBLISHER @NORTHPEORIALIFESTYLE
December 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
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jen David | jen.david@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Nichole Eckman | nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Mimi Slawoff | mslawoff@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Susan Lanier-Graham, Dena Roché, Mindy Wester
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Mindy Wester
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
Proverbs 3:5-6
Season at Arizona Broadway Theatre
here is nothing like the magic of live theatre. The music, the choreography and the costumes bring a story to life on stage. The collective experience of the audience and the performers is unlike any other form of entertainment. To be able to share all this with your loved ones, children and grandchildren and see the expressions of joy and excitement on their faces is like nothing else.
That’s why West Valley residents Dr. and Mrs. Keith Haar of Epiphany Dermatology, decided to sponsor Arizona Broadway Theatre’s holiday production, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast has been enchanting audiences for more than 30 years on stage and has thrilled roughly 20 million children and adults worldwide with its show-stopping numbers, breathtaking sets and over-the-top costumes.
ago, we discovered we didn’t have to go far from home to experience world-class theatre. Plus, at Arizona Broadway Theatre, we got the added benefit of an elevated dining experience without fighting for parking. It was then we were hooked!”
Being part of the Epiphany Dermatology family, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast holds a special place in the Haars’ hearts. The timeless love story and many valuable life lessons embedded in the narrative, including the messages that beauty comes from within and you should not judge a book by its cover, are pertinent even today.
“Year after year, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast attracts a whole new generation of fans, both young and old, who fall in love with the enchanted characters behind the castle walls,” Mrs. Haar concluded. “We are proud to be a part of that legacy at Arizona Broadway Theatre.”
“Over the years, our family has been lucky enough to attend theatrical performances around the globe,” said Mrs. Haar. “But, after we saw our first show at Arizona Broadway Theatre nearly 18 years
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is onstage at Arizona Broadway Theatre Nov. 15-Dec. 29, 2024. To learn more about the show or get tickets, visit azbroadway.org.
Dr. Keith and Kim Haar
Haymaker Restaurant Relocates and Expands
Local family-owned restaurant Haymaker (HaymakerAZ.com), founded by Westside Concepts in 2013, is set to open in Buckeye at Verrado's new Sunrise Market while relocating its Peoria location across Lake Pleasant Parkway to Sunrise Promenade.
The new venues, in addition to its existing locations in Goodyear and the second Peoria location at the intersection of Thunderbird Road and the 101 Freeway, will continue to offer the Haymaker all-day menu.
Drybar Opens its Seventh Valley Location in Glendale
Drybar® Shops (DrybarShops.com), the premier blowout and styling brand, recently opened its seventh Arizona location in Glendale at The Village at Arrowhead, 67th Avenue and Loop 101 freeway.
Drybar Arrowhead will offer a limited-time new client promotion and monthly memberships with exclusive perks. The shop will also offer a selection of Drybar's award-winning product line, including shampoos and conditioners, styling tools, and various products.
The North Pole Experience Returns to Flagstaff for 16th Season
Head north to explore Santa's 400-year-old Grand Workshop now through December 24. The North Pole Experience (NPX) lets families step aboard the magical trolley that transports them through a glowing portal into Santa's Grand Workshop. Experiences in this immersive storytelling adventure include an all-new toy factory, Santa's Original Workshop, hands-on toy assembly, Elf University, Santa's Mail Room, festive treats at Mrs. Claus' Bakery, and personal time with Santa. $52 to $76. NorthPoleExperience.com
Photography by The North Pole Experience
Photography by Drybar Shops
Photography by West Side Concepts
Wreaths Across America Event at National Memorial Cemetery
Each December, Wreaths Across America (WreathsAcrossAmerica.org) places sponsored wreaths on grave markers at state and national veterans' cemeteries nationwide. Support your local Trilogy Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) chapter and attend this patriotic event on Saturday, December 14, at 9:00 AM at National Memorial Cemetery, 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix. For information about the Daughters of the American Revolution, visit DAR.org
Photography by Wreaths Across America
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
Christmas Markets Explore European
A CHRISTMAS MARKET RIVER CRUISE TAKES YOU THROUGH THE HEART OF EUROPE TO EXPERIENCE THESE FESTIVE AND ICONIC MARKETS
Christkindlmarkt at the Rathausplatz in Vienna
Twinkling lights, Christmas carols, and the smell of roasting chestnuts and spiced wine are hallmark features of Europe’s festive Christmas markets. Called Christkindlesmarkts in Germany, these holiday markets are a centuries-old European tradition. I took a Viking River Cruise (VikingRiverCruises.com) from Budapest, Hungary, to Passau, Germany, to experience the season's magic.
CHRISTKINDLESMARKT HISTORY
The original Christkindlesmarkt dates to the mid1500s in Nuremberg, Germany. Initially a way for the townspeople to stock up on food and supplies for the long, cold winters, the markets soon became part of the Christmas gift-giving tradition.
While initially celebrated only during Advent, today's Christmas markets typically start at the end of November and run until Christmas Eve. While each market is a bit different, they all feature traditional lebkuchen (like gingerbread), marzipan, bratwurst, pretzels, baked apples, pastries, and roasted chestnuts. You might also want to purchase a glühwein, or hot spiced wine, at each market, often served in a unique collector's mug.
CHRISTMAS CHEER
The Christmas market cruises last eight to twelve days, allowing you to explore multiple markets along your route through various European countries. Viking offers eight different cruises throughout Europe. Each cruise includes one or more complimentary and several optional (for a fee) excursions in each port. You can also find plenty of holiday cheer on your boat.
Weihnachtsmarkt on St. Stephans Platz in Budpest, Hungary
Bratislava market at night
Christmas in Linz, Austria
Our days were filled with lovely guided tours while we spent evenings with our newfound friends. The river cruises are on smaller boats, so you'll get to know your fellow passengers. I cruised on the Viking Vilhjalm , one of the Viking Longships with a maximum of 190 guests and 53 crew members.
We started the week's festivities with a tree-trimming party and sing-along. Evening guests in the lounge included the Bratislava Advent Choir and the Salzburg Sound of Music Singers.
In the mornings, we chatted about Vienna's coffee culture, learned from the chef how to make traditional Christollen while sipping a hot drink, and even decorated our own gingerbread men under the chef's watchful eye.
THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Of course, the highlights were the Christmas markets that lined the banks of the Danube from Budapest through Slovakia and Austria into Germany. On this journey, we visited markets in Budapest, then stopped at markets in Bratislava, Slovakia; Vienna, Krems, and Linz, Austria; and Passau, Germany. An optional excursion to Český Krumlov took passengers north of the Danube to experience Christmas in this fairytale town in the Czech Republic.
In Budapest, there were options to visit Christmas markets, take a guided city tour, and walk from the boat to the Great Hall indoor market for more holiday shopping.
Bratislava's town square features small booths and an assortment of foods. The Christmas market was within walking distance of where our boat docked, so we explored during the day and returned in the evening. Our included excursion in Bratislava took us to St. Martin's Cathedral, where we enjoyed an organ concert. The church has a rich history, where eleven Hungarian kings and eight queens have been crowned.
Christmas goodies for sale in a Vienna market
Collect the glüwein mugs as you visit different Christmas markets
Viking decorates the atrium for the Christmas Market cruises. Photo courtesy Viking River Cruises
“Celebrate an Old World Christmas on one of Europe’s great rivers. Glittering cities light up with traditional Christmas markets.”
Our next stop was Vienna, home to some of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. The city has seven major Christmas markets, including the Christkindlmarkts at the Rathausplatz, Stephansplatz, and Maria Theresien Platz. While these are the most famous—and busiest—we enjoyed wandering the Old Town, where we discovered several smaller markets with fewer people and more traditional offerings. Watch what you purchase in the bigger markets since some booths now import Christmas ornaments and goods. Look for traditional and locally made items. Viking runs a complimentary bus between the market and the ship, and the subway system is easy to navigate.
I enjoyed the Linz, Austria, market and appreciated walking through it with our program director. However, my favorite market was in Passau, Germany. We docked in the Old Town, making it easy to stroll along the river to the market. We listened to the sounds of the organ from St. Stephen's Cathedral as we wandered through the booths, nibbling bratwurst and pretzels and sipping glühwein.
All too soon, it was time to depart, but I had a sense of the Christmas spirit that is often lost amid the hustle and bustle of city shopping at home.
CONTINUED >
Bratislava, Slovakia main square hosts the Christmas Market
Discover handcrafted ornaments for everyone on your list
Christmas Market on the Hauptplatz in Linz, Austria
Find traditional lebkuchen, similar to gingerbread, in European Christmas markets
P O P TH E COR K
For kids, the holidays are about presents, sweets, and school break. But for adults, the season is a time of friends, family, and parties.
As you plan your holiday festivities and gift-giving, nothing elevates a celebration like a great bottle of wine. Whether you’re hosting the soiree or looking for the perfect hostess gift, we have four wines that pair perfectly with your holiday celebrations.
ARTICLE BY DENA ROCHÉ
PALMER CHAMPAGNE ROSÉ SOLERA 2020 OTRONIA CHARDONNAY
Champagne-Palmer.fr/en/ | Retail Price: $92
Nothing says celebration like Champagne; you’ll celebrate in style with the Palmer Rosé Solera. The Palmer & Co. Maison in Reims is a boutique house founded by seven Champagne families in the 1940s to bring balanced, elegant bubbles to the table.
This rosé Champagne is a blend of Champagne’s three main grapes, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier, with a small solera, or blend of red wine, added. The result is bubbles with a perfume of black currants and strawberries. You’ll also get notes of vanilla and cinnamon and a delicate mousse. Its beautiful pink color is perfect for your holiday celebration as an aperitif or pairing with chocolate-covered strawberries for dessert.
Champagne Palmer Rosé Solera is available online from Family Wineries Direct (FamilyWineriesDirect.com), with shipping to Arizona.
Otronia.com | Retail Price: $99
Bodega Otronia is in Patagonia, the world’s southern grape-growing frontier. In Argentinian competitions, Winemaker Juan Pablo was named Winemaker of the Year and Young Winemaker of the Year. All of Otronia’s wines represent the extreme environment that birthed them.
The soil, perpetual wind, intense sunlight, and a cold, dry climate give the 2020 Otronia Chardonnay bristling acidity and intense aromatics of peach, pear, herbs, and flowers. Aging in French oak foudres (large wooden vats) for 18 to 20 months adds flavor, structure, body, and smoothness to the wine.
It’s a great pairing with a poached lobster New Year’s Eve celebration dinner or with oysters on your holiday buffet table.
You can find the 2020 Otronia Chardonnay online at d’Or to Door Wines Direct (DoortoDoor.com).
2017 BOLLA AMARONE
DELLA VALPOLICELLA DOCG
GruppoItalianoVini.it | Retail Price: $60
Amarone comes from Verona, the land of Romeo and Juliet, so it’s the perfect bottle for a holiday meal with your sweetie. Amarone wines are powerful, rich, full-bodied red wines that get their impactful punch from the unique way they are made. Winemakers use the appassimento process, which involves drying the grapes for several months before pressing and fermentation. The wine then ages two to five years in barrels. Bolla was the first to produce an Amarone in 1953. Today, the 2017 Amarone Della Valpolicella continues that tradition. Despite being seven years old, the wine benefits from decanting to smooth its tannins before serving with meat or heavy pasta dishes.
2017 Bolla Amarone Della Valpolicella DOCG is available online from Napa Cabs Online Wine Collection (NapaCabs.com).
BVWines.com | Retail Price: $160
Georges de Latour wines were America’s first legendary wines. In the 1940s, the iconic California winemaker André Tchelistcheff made the wine, which was named to honor the founder of Beaulieu Vineyard. Since then, it’s become the brand’s flagship wine and the benchmark for all Rutherford Cabernets.
This cult Cabernet packs a punch with aromas of dark berries, black cherry, and black plum, along with floral and herbal notes. On the palate, the wine is intense, rich, balanced, and layered with flavors of dark chocolate and leather that linger. The signature Rutherford Dust tannins are pronounced. The wine would be a perfect accompaniment to a holiday dinner featuring filet mignon or rack of lamb.
Beaulieu Vineyard 2020 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon can be purchased online at Fine Wine & Good Spirits (FineWineandGoodSpirits.com).
Quality Installations
Transforming Spaces
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
CONFECTION
Elevate your holiday hot chocolate with a charcuterie experience
As winter settles in and the air chills, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming cup of hot chocolate. While a simple cup of hot cocoa can warm the soul, why not take it up a notch and indulge in a hot cocoa charcuterie board? Picture a delightful spread of various hot chocolate flavors, mix-ins, and toppings, inviting you to create a personalized, delicious mug of joy. Let’s explore the wonders of old-fashioned hot cocoa and all the accompaniments you can use to create your very own hot cocoa charcuterie board.
THE DELIGHTS OF OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Old-fashioned hot cocoa transports us to simpler times and brings with it a sense of nostalgia. The slow, traditional process of making hot chocolate from scratch – with real chocolate, milk and a touch of sweetness – provides a distinctly memorable experience for the holidays.
OLD-FASHIONED HOT COCOA
Ingredients
• ¼ cup 60% cacao chocolate morsels
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pinch salt
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Heat all ingredients (except vanilla extract) in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-low heat until almost boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY WESTER
CREATING THE PERFECT HOT COCOA
CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Gone are the days of selecting only between marshmallows and whipped cream as toppings. With a hot cocoa charcuterie board, you can delve into a world of flavors, textures and spices that will make each sip an adventure, and serve as a sweet centerpiece to your holiday gatherings.
Begin by selecting a variety of flavors and mix-ins, such as mini marshmallows, salted caramels, white chocolate morsels and peppermints. Pair your hot cocoa with delectable treats like cookies, gum drops, crème-filled wafer rolls or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Consider adding biscotti, chocolate-dipped spoons or chocolate-coated pretzels as well as whipped toppings and an assortment of sprinkles.
VARIATIONS TO SAVOR
Indulge in some exciting recipes that are sure to elevate your hot chocolate into fun and festive beverages during the holidays and throughout the colder months.
MINTY FRESH WONDER
Embrace the festive season with a mint-infused hot cocoa. Fancify your beverage with a peppermint stick or make your
own crushed candy cane dust for a touch of holiday cheer. This minty delight is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for cozy winter evenings.
SPICY AZTEC ELIXIR
Channel your inner adventurer with an Aztec-inspired hot cocoa. Infuse your drink with a touch of chili powder and a dash of cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation. This fiery blend will ignite your senses and warm you from the inside out.
GROWN-UP GRASSHOPPER
Transform your drink into a rich adult-only grasshopper hot cocoa by adding 2 oz. of crème de menthe or a shot of peppermint schnapps. Adorn with a crushed candy cane rim for a playful offering.
DECADENT SALTED CARAMEL INDULGENCE
Elevate your hot cocoa experience with a drizzle of homemade salted caramel. The combination of slightly bitter cocoa and sweet, buttery caramel is a match made in heaven. Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt for that irresistible contrast.
Yakisoba
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER 3RD & 4TH
Zach Bryan’s The Quittin' Time Tour
Desert Diamond Arena | 7:00 PM
Get ready for two unforgettable nights as Zach Bryan’s "The Quittin' Time Tour" takes over Desert Diamond Arena! This Grammy Award-winning artist will light up the stage with his soulful hits, joined by the incredible Matt Maeson and Levi Turner. Don’t miss this electrifying concert experience! Buy your tickets now at DesertDiamondArena.com.
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER
Wonderland Weekends at the Wigwam
The Wigwam | 6:00 PM
Experience magical holiday activities at The Wigwam (WigwamArizona.com) every Friday and Saturday in December! Stroll through a dazzling light path, cozy up by the fire with s'mores, enjoy seasonal treats from the Holiday Delights menu, and listen to carols sung by the Winter Princess. Kids can hear stories from Santa’s Elf or make reindeer food.
DECEMBER 6TH - 22ND
A Christmas Carol
Theater Works | 7:30 PM
Celebrate the holiday season with Theater Works’ adaptation of A Christmas Carol, where Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey to compassion comes alive. Featuring Louis Farber in his ariZoni-nominated role, plus stunning visuals, beautiful costumes, and beloved characters like Tiny Tim and Bob Cratchit. It is a heartwarming tradition for the whole family. Reserve your seat at Theaterworks.org.
DECEMBER 7TH - 22ND
Breakfast with Santa Litchfield’s Restaurant at The Wigwam | 8:00 AM
Get into the holiday spirit with a festive breakfast buffet at Litchfield's at Wigwam Arizona (WigwamArizona.com) every Saturday and Sunday in December! Guests can enjoy holiday crafts for kids and a special visit from Santa for memorable photos.
DECEMBER 14TH
Peoria's Holiday Festival
Downtown Peoria | 5:00 PM
Join the Peoria Holiday Festival for festive fun across the Peoria city hall campus! Enjoy live music, Santa meet-and-greets, interactive entertainment, food trucks, local artisan vendors, and a magical tree lighting ceremony. The festival is perfect for the whole family and offers free admission and parking. For more information, visit PeoriaAZ.gov.
DECEMBER 20TH & 21ST
Candy Cane Lane
Peoria Sports Complex | 4:00 PM
Christmas fun abounds at Candy Cane Lane, a 2-day festival at Peoria Sports Complex (PeoriaSportsComplex.com)! Enjoy over 150 shopping vendors, food trucks, Santa photos, Dinosaur Land, free snow play, bounce houses, face painting, axe throwing, cookie decorating, and more! Tickets are $5, and parking is free.
