North Peoria, AZ June 2024

June—Men's Issue

This month, we celebrate men—including our dads. I may be biased, but my dad is the best. I can give you a million reasons—he is kind yet fair, strong yet gentle, and, of course, handsome. That man has taught me how to think, how to carry myself as a professional, and how to do the right thing in difficult circumstances. These lessons and the characteristics he has modeled are largely why I am who I am today.

What impact has the dad in your life had on you?

Great dads are everywhere. They are given to us at birth, inherited from friend groups, and adopted as mentors from work or school….dads who provide us with strength and guidance are everywhere. We have some pretty incredible men building up our North Peoria community.

The June issue of North Peoria Lifestyle is always one of my favorites. Who doesn’t love reading about the best golf spots, how to perfect that swing, great gifts for that hard-to-buy-for guy, or a recipe for a perfect new barbecue sauce? We also get a peek at Kevin Costner's Ford F250, which he had customized just for him by local business Lifted Trucks. There is definitely something for everyone in our annual men's issue.

Stop looking on the internet and jump inside this issue to find the best way to honor the great dad in your life! I know I hold mine precious. I hope you enjoy our celebration of the men of North Peoria.

JULIE LACROIX, PUBLISHER @NORTHPEORIALIFESTYLE

June 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

COPY EDITOR

Mimi Slawoff

mslawoff@gmail.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jen David jen.david@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angel Fuchs, Susan Lanier-Graham, Pat & Gina Neely, Gretchen Pahia, Daniel Schowengerdt

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Nichole Eckman

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

3:5-6

BEST WEST VALLEY GOLF COURSES

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

CHECK OUT PUBLISHER JULIE LACROIX'S RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 4 GREAT WEST VALLEY GOLF COURSES

Arizona is known for offering some of the world’s best golfing. Our desert location creates extraordinary golf experiences, where vibrant desert landscapes meet lush green fairways. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice looking to improve your swing, the West Valley boasts some of the best golf courses in the country.

We asked North Peoria Lifestyle Publisher Julie LaCroix to share some of her favorite West Valley golf courses. She suggested something for every golfer. So pack your clubs and get ready to tee off close to home.

Photo by Nichole Eckman

QUINTERO GOLF CLUB

Located on State Route 74 near Lake Pleasant, Quintero Golf Course (QuinteroGolf.com) has consistently ranked among the top public golf courses by Golf Digest. The Rees Jones-designed championship golf course offers 7,200 yards from the championship tees and 5,043 yards from the forward tees. The course provides strategic bunker placement and generous landing areas while embracing the desert beauty.

THE 500 GOLF CLUB AT ADOBE DAM REGIONAL PARK

The 500 Club (The500Club.com) is a secluded 18-hole championship golf course in North Phoenix/Glendale. The Brian Whitcombdesigned course has a par 72 layout that appeals to all skill levels. The course offers 6,867 yards from the championship tees. The par 28 Futures Course features lush fairways and perfectly placed bunkers with three tee boxes: 1,464 yards, 1,283 yards, or 1,075 yards.

TRILOGY GOLF CLUB AT VISTANCIA

Trilogy Golf Club (MyTrilogyLife.com/vistancia/ golf) features a public course designed by golf course architect Gary Panks. Trilogy features more than 70 pronounced and transitional bunkers that feed into the fairways and native areas. The 18-hole, par 72-course welcomes golfers of all skill levels.

Verrado Golf Club ( VerradoGolfClub.com) in Buckeye offers championship golf against the White Tank Mountains. The Tom Lehmandesigned courses take you through towering saguaro, old-growth Ironwoods, and past the occasional bunny. The 18-hole Founder’s Course plays to 7,300 yards with generous landing areas and five sets of tee boxes. The 18-hole Victory Course stretches over 7,000 yards with five sets of tee boxes and stunning natural beauty.

VERRADO GOLF CLUB

Photo by Nichole Eckman

Photo courtesy Quintero Golf Club

Photo courtesy Verrado Golf Club

Photo courtesy The 500 Golf Club

“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.”

KEVIN COSTNER'S CUSTOM FORD F250

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIFTED TRUCKS

Kevin Costner knows movies, but by his own account, he knows nothing about customizing a 4x4 pickup. That's where Arizona-based Lifted Trucks (LiftedTrucks.com) came to the rescue.

Costner, famous for movie blockbusters such as Bull Durham , Dances with Wolves, and Field of Dreams, and the Peacock hit Yellowstone, wanted a custom truck for himself and his son, Cayden.

"Lifted Trucks kind of came to my rescue. They understood what I was going for, and I didn't exactly know how

to go about it because I'm not a gearhead," explains Costner. "They started showing me what was possible, and it just made all the difference in the world."

Lifted Trucks helped Costner customize his 2023 Ford F250 Powerstroke diesel. The customizations included Icon progressive front springs, an adjustable track bar, FOX 2.5 performance elite series shocks, and a dual-steering stabilizer system.

"I've had so many cool things happen in my life, but I was really excited when I saw it in my driveway," Costner says. "They did what I needed them to do, what I didn't know how to do."

Glendale's own Lifted Trucks came to the rescue when Yellowstone star, Kevin Costner, wanted a custom 4x4 truck

Costner says he could never figure out how to get the right accessories on his own, but Lifted Trucks took the guesswork out of the process. Even though he had a hard time imagining the end result, Lifted Trucks got it.

"They took a lot of the decision out. They know what looks cool," Costner explains.

For more than 30 years, Lifted Trucks has been making 4x4 trucks look cool for every customer—not just celebrities.

"I don't know if mine looks cool, but it feels cool, and it works for me. Lifted Trucks was the difference."

About Lifted Trucks

Arizona State University students James Pillor and Dustin Desmarteau founded Lifted Trucks in 1995. Due to its high standards, the company has seen incredible growth. Lifted Trucks sells the highest-quality used trucks. Its one-of-a-kind inventory features customized off-road parts and accessories installed by company experts.

The customization process is rigorous. Once the technicians complete the custom installs, every vehicle goes through an 82-point inspection and a test drive to ensure its roadworthiness.

Along with the North Glendale location, Lifted Trucks now has Arizona locations in Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, and Tucson. It has expanded into Texas and Alabama and ships customized off-road trucks throughout the US.

CONTACT INFORMATION

LiftedTrucks.com

7050 W Bell Road, Glendale

Father’s Day is the perfect time to reflect on the important role fathers play in our lives. For parents, ensuring the well-being and protection of loved ones is paramount. Through thoughtful estate planning, fathers of all ages can secure their family’s prosperity for years to come, leaving behind a heartfelt legacy of love and protection.

•Wills and Trusts

•Powers of Attorney

• Trust Administration and Probate

• Advanced Estate Planning

• Preparation of Health Care Documents

PLASMA PEN

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WEST VALLEY MAVERICKS FOUNDATION

WEST VALLEY ORGANIZATION AIMS TO SUPPORT LOCAL RESIDENTS IN NEED OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT

CHARITY STARTS AT HOME

The West Valley is the best place to live, work, and do business!

One West Valley organization is making it a mission to bring about positive transformations while sup-

“WE

four years. “I’ve been wowed by the area's growth and potential, and I am passionate about giving back in any way I can so

AIM TO ENHANCE THE COMMUNITIES IN THE WEST VALLEY AND CREATE A BETTER FUTURE FOR ALL.”

porting communities in need. The West Valley Mavericks Foundation ( WestValleyMavericksFoundation.org ) is a philanthropic group that aims to raise money for children and families in need. It is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization made up of businesses and community leaders committed to shaping and supporting the area through charitable events.

THE MAVERICKS' MISSION

Mavericks board member Mark James shares that the Mavericks have a bold mission.

“We aim to enhance the communities in the West Valley and create a better future for all. We accomplish this by advancing four critical pillars: charity, community, culture, and commerce.”

James, who chose to stay in the West Valley after retiring from the U.S. Air Force, has been part of the Mavericks for

I can continue making it an incredible place to live, work, and raise a family.”

A DRIVING FORCE IN THE WEST VALLEY

Over the years, the Mavericks have established themselves as a driving force behind positive community support by fostering a culture of giving, promoting cultural events, and creating a prosperous area for years to come. In 2023, the West Valley Mavericks gave $600,000 to 100 local organizations, and since their inception in 2012, they have given more than $2 million to area organizations.

Each year, the Mavericks raise funds through hosting four major events:

• The Roundup is the ultimate food truck party extravaganza that includes live music, kids’ zones, a huge VIP pavilion, and more than 75 of the best food trucks in Arizona all in one place—the Goodyear Ballpark.

CONTINUED >

This event does not have any entrance fees associated with it, and is fun for the whole family. This year's Roundup is scheduled for Saturday, September 28, from 4 to 10 p.m. VIP tickets are $150 and include premium parking, a private tasting area, and gourmet small plates from the VIP restaurant sponsor.

• The Maverick is a VIP golf event topped off with an outdoor “Dinner on the Green.” Lunch, top-of-the-line tournament apparel, great swag, 18 holes of golf, and complimentary beverages and snacks make this a great golf day. Then, guests are invited for an evening of food, silent and live auctions, and a moonlight after-party. The Maverick Golf tournament takes place each May.

• The Shindig is a one-of-a-kind VIP concert experience that will transport you straight into the heart of country music. This event supports fantastic charities in the West Valley, including Phoenix Children’s. The next event is on March 1, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m.

• The Patriot All-America Invitational is a bowl-like championship for top collegiate golfers from all NCAA divisions named to the PING All-American teams and invited members of the United States Service Academies. Throughout the event, each golfer carries a golf bag donated by PING, embroidered with the name of a fallen or severely injured military hero. After the event, the bags are presented to each golfer’s college, where the bags are auctioned, and the proceeds raised are donated to the Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides educational scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members. The next event occurs at the end of December at The Wigwam Golf Resort in Litchfield Park.

Immerse Yourself in a Fun Sports Weekend— Golf, Football, Soccer, and More

Ultimate Sports Weekend in Frisco, Texas

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VISIT FRISCO

If you're looking for a great sports escape, Frisco, Texas (VisitFrisco.com) offers the perfect play-cation. Here are our suggestions for the best weekend getaway.

WHERE IS FRISCO?

Frisco is part of the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex, so you can fly into either DFW or Love Field and grab a ride share for the 30-minute ride to Frisco. We recommend booking a stay at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort or Hyatt Regency Frisco.

SHARPEN YOUR GOLF SKILLS

Golf aficionados should check out the PGA of America Headquarters (PGA.com). Book a session at the Coaching Center, which offers expert coaches and top-of-theline facilities to enhance your game and technique. Whether you want to improve your golf swing or perfect your putting, the Coaching Center offers personalized instruction tailored to your needs.

NATIONAL SOCCER HALL OF FAME

You can immerse yourself in soccer's history and legacy at the National Soccer Hall of Fame (NationalSoccerHOF.com). Explore interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and artifacts that highlight the passion and excitement of the game. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the National Soccer Hall of Fame offers a unique and engaging experience celebrating everything soccer.

TOUR THE DALLAS COWBOYS WORLD HEADQUARTERS

Continue your sports journey by taking a guided tour of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and experiencing The Star (TheStarinFrisco.com).

Step inside the state-of-the-art facilities where the Dallas Cowboys practice and prepare for game day. From the Ford Center at The Star, where high school athletes compete on the same turf as the pros, to the interactive Jerry Jones Experience, immerse yourself in the Cowboys' storied tradition and star-studded legacy. You'll see the actual Super Bowl trophies and diamond-studded rings. After your tour, head to one of the many restaurants on the 91-acre campus to toast your sportsthemed play-cation.

It's All in the Aesthetics

Doctor Brings Top-Notch Vein & Aesthetics Care to Peoria

For as long as he can remember, Matthew Lynch wanted to be a doctor. “I always wanted to help people, and that's what smart people did, become doctors,” explains Lynch.

After working as a general surgeon for several years in Wisconsin, Lynch moved to Arizona nine years ago and opened his new practice, Lynch Vein and Aesthetics, in North Peoria in 2020.

BECOMING A DOCTOR

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Lynch fulfilled his aspirations, becoming the only doctor in his family; in fact, he and his older brother were the first to go to college. Lynch received a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin, where he continued his education and earned a Doctor of Medicine degree in 2002. He completed an integrated

ARTICLE BY ANGEL FUCHS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DR. MATTHEW LYNCH

general surgery residency in Chicago at RUSH University – John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County.

In time, Lynch and his wife got tired of living in the Midwest and decided to move to Arizona.

“My wife's mother lives in Scottsdale, and we liked it here,” says Lynch. I saw some job openings in Arizona, and I applied.”

CHOOSING NORTH PEORIA

Lynch spent a few years working as the trauma medical director at a Banner Health facility and then a year and a half with United Healthcare. Although he loved being a doctor, the stress and long hours caused burnout, and he knew he needed to do something different. In November 2020, he opened Lynch Vein and Aesthetics (LynchVein.com) in North Peoria.

“North Peoria is one of the fastest growing areas in the Valley. It's a beautiful place. The residents are employed, have health insurance, and have disposable income,” Lynch explains when asked why he chose North Peoria. “The economy and growth of the area are very favorable.”

A THRIVING FAMILY BUSINESS

Today, Lynch Vein and Aesthetics is flourishing. It's a small practice with only a handful of employees, including Lynch's wife, Stephanie, who is the office manager.

“My wife left her job as a special education teacher to come work with me,” he states. “She is so organized and motivated and keeps things running smoothly. Our patients adore her; she's everyone's best friend.”

Lynch Vein and Aesthetics boasts the latest technologies to provide patients with excellent vein and aesthetics care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Offerings include treatment for various vein conditions, laser aesthetic services, hormone optimization therapy, medical weight loss, spa services, and more. The clinic sees an average of 60 patients a week, and  Lynch listens and spends time with each one.

“We are a family-owned business and offer a personal touch,” Lynch explains. “Our style is no pressure. We aren't trying to sell patients stuff; we only want to help people look and feel better.”

Lynch says he truly enjoys what he does and plans to continue to grow his practice, making it the top place for aesthetics in the area. He plans to add to his menu of services, possibly adding hair restoration and a few other treatments.

Lynch and his wife have been married for 16 years and have two children,  Alexandra, 13, and William, 12. When he finds spare time, Lynch loves traveling with his family, enjoying good food and wine, and learning to play the guitar.

“We are a family-owned business and offer a personal touch. Our style is no pressure. We aren't trying to sell patients stuff; we only want to help people look and feel better.”

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

Gifts for Dads & Grads

Bark

Barware

Elevate your whiskey experience with this unique cocktail smoking kit in an exquisite wooden box. Add a touch of sophistication and fun to every sip. Amazon $49.99

Inspired by North Carolina’s historic state highway linking the peninsulas and islands of the northern Outer Banks, 12 South glasses are ideal for fishing, boating, or hanging out. BajioSunglasses.com $209+

The ultimate fitness entertainment rower combines immersive gaming and endless streaming options. It offers a full-body workout that engages multiple muscle groups while having fun. AvironActive.com $2,199

Each piece in this grill set re-imagines traditional designs with new innovative features that will elevate your grilling game. The highest quality stainless steel is balanced with softtouch inlays to sit securely in the hand. Toadfish.com $68

The 154 City Pack is a luxury crossbody bag crafted from full-grain leather. The interior features mesh pockets for cables and loose objects, a magnetic pouch for sunglasses, an AirTag pocket, and more. Grams28.com $299

Perfecting Your Golf Swing

ARTICLE BY DANIEL SCHOWENGERDT

Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.

01.

Get fit for equipment.

If you are buying clubs off the rack, you aren’t giving yourself the best chance for success. Golf technology is evolving every year, and although you don’t need to buy a new driver each year, if you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.

On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.

As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.

CONTINUED >

Get good golf instruction, REGULARLY.

02.

We’ve all heard someone say, “I should get a lesson sometime.” To be effective, you need regular lessons from a PGA certified pro, not just one lesson. Getting quality instruction from the same instructor can turn slices into draws and give you the confidence to play with anyone on any course. Years ago, golf instructors started instruction with chipping and putting and then graduated to the driver. Now, instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first. My friend regularly outdrives me by 50 yards, but my ball is in the hole first most of the time because of my training and practice on the short game.

Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.

03.

There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads: Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)

Practice your short game every day.

04.

You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.

Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.

Instructors have been pressured to start with the driver because we all want to outdrive our friends. Resist that temptation! Get instruction on your short game and irons first.

Defender 110

X-Dynamic

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY

PROVIDED

ADVENTURE AWAITS IN A REIMAGINED LAND ROVER CLASSIC

Land Rover has managed to reimagine a classic in a masterful way. The new Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE is ideal whether you’re heading out for a day off-roading, or making a quick run to pick up groceries or the kids from school. The Defender offers an unmatched exterior, extreme durability, best-in-class capability, and stunning technology.

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR FEATURES

The Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE featured a sliding panoramic roof, automatic headlight leveling, and keyless entry. The all-terrain tires will take you easily over the roughest terrain.

Inside, you’ll love the 12-way heated and cooled electric memory leather front seats. You’ll enjoy entertainment on the go with the 10-inch Touchscreen, interactive driver display, and Meridian Sound System 400W with 10 speakers and a subwoofer.

UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE

The Defender is engineered and tested to the extreme. According to Land Rover, is it the “toughest and strongest vehicle ever” and has undergone rigorous testing.

If you want to head off-the-grid, Defender is ready. It has a 370-lb. dynamic roof load and a 661-lb. static load. It can tow up to 7,716 lbs. with the Advanced Tow Assist. The electro winch has a maximum pulling force of 10,000 lbs., operated via remote control.

MSRP: $72,000

Price as tested: $87,973 17 MPG city/20 MPG highway

JUNE 3RD - AUGUST 2ND

Summer Theatre Camp for Kids, Tweens and Teens

Arizona Broadway Theatre | 9:00 AM

Registration is open for Arizona Broadway Theatre’s 2024 Summer Academy for Young Performers. Valley kids, pre-teens, and teens can discover live theatre's magic in one and twoweek sessions. This year includes four sessions: Finding Nemo Kids, 6/3-6/7; Little Mermaid Jr (6/17-6/28), Spongebob (7/8-7/19), and James & The Giant Peach Jr (7/22-8/2). Call 623.776.8400 or visit AZBroadway.org.

JUNE 5TH

Girl's Night Out with Riley Clemmons

Vineyard Church Main Auditorium 6:00 PM

Grab your girlfriends and get ready for an evening of uplifting music with worship artist Riley Clemmons at Vineyard North Phoenix! Register and save your seat at VineyardNorthPhoenix.com

JUNE 21ST – AUGUST 4TH

Disney’s the Little Mermaid

Arizona Broadway Theatre | 5:30 PM Embark on an enchanting journey under the sea with Disney's The Little Mermaid Musical! Follow Ariel as she ventures from the ocean depths to pursue love and adventure on land. Get ready to dive into a world full of colorful characters and captivating melodies. Purchase tickets online at AZBroadway.org.

Want to be featured? GET

9762 W JJ RANCH RD, MELTON RANCH 2

realty report

Listing Agent: Blake St John & Adriana Opris

Listing Broker: Engel & Voelkers Scottsdale

8360 W PARK VIEW CT, SUMMIT AT SUNRISE MOUNTAIN

Listing Agent: Nathan C Martinez

Broker: RE/MAX Professionals

730593 N 117TH DR, BLACKSTONE AT VISTANCIA Listing Agent: Bridget Cape

Broker: Realty ONE Group

9608 W VILLA LINDO DR, TRAILSIDE AT HAPPY VALLEY

Listing Agent: Hilary C Sutter & Cassie Rhodes

8087 W Chama DR, SUNRISE VISTA

Listing Agent: Crystal Holtorf & Regina Dark

AT VISTANCIA

Listing Agent: Andrew Johnson & Evelyn Saracco

8152 W CAMINO DE ORO, CLEARVIEW ESTATES Listing Agent: John Vitale & Stan Abraham

Broker: Berkshire Hathaway

USING THESE TIPS YOU CAN MAKE A DELICIOUS HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE.

A good barbecue sauce is comprised of a variety of the same six components. The key is to discover what style you enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Oh, and taste often during the preparation process to adjust if so desired.

SOMETHING SWEET

This can be honey, cola, molasses, preserves, brown sugar, or syrup. This caramelizes as you cook, bringing those smoky, sugary flavors.

SOMETHING TANGY

Think vinegar, mustard, or citrus. This is what brings the zing to your sauce.

SOMETHING SPICY

This provides your heat: a hot sauce is a great choice. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/2 teaspoon for every cup of sauce you’re making.

SOMETHING LIQUID

It can be beer, water, chicken stock, soda, or wine. Start with about 1/2 a cup and see what happens.

SOMETHING TOMATO

You’ll most likely use ketchup, but you can also use tomato paste.

THE SPICE COMBINATION

This can depend on your liking and taste and can include anything from onion powder to garlic powder to chili powder to allspice to cayenne pepper to mustard powder to liquid smoke to cumin to Worcestershire sauce and more. Start with a teaspoon of salt, and keep tasting as you experiment with your desired spices.

HOMEMADE

BBQ SAUCE

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups ketchup

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 5 tablespoons brown sugar

• 5 tablespoons sugar

• 1/2 tablespoon  black pepper

• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder

• 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

DIRECTIONS

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.

Recipe and information courtesy of Pat Neely and Gina Neely.