North Peoria, AZ June 2025

Page 1


MEN OF NORTH PEORIA

June— Celebrating Men

As we move into June, a month celebrating Father’s Day and all the important men in our lives, this topic carries a deeper weight for our team at North Peoria Lifestyle.

Both myself and our Managing Editor, Susan Lanier-Graham, are walking personal journeys of profound reflection. Our fathers are each in a battle, and as we navigate these emotional days, we find ourselves thinking about the true legacies men leave behind.

When you strip away the titles, the awards, the careers, and the day-to-day busyness, what endures is far simpler—and far more profound. It’s the way they made us feel. It’s the lessons they exemplified more than the ones they taught. It’s the steady presence, the acts of quiet courage, the unconditional support, and even the flaws that shape us in ways we only begin to understand once we're grown.

Watching our fathers in these final chapters has brought a new kind of clarity. Their legacies are not the businesses they built or the milestones they achieved, though those things are admirable. Their true legacies live in the laughter around our dinner tables, the fierce loyalty they showed to friends, the integrity they held when no one was watching, and the way they believed in us even when we doubted ourselves. It lives in the way we show up for our own children, our communities, and our neighbors.

This month, as we honor the men in our families, neighborhoods, and businesses, we invite you to think about the legacies being written around you—every single day. Legacies aren’t built in grand gestures. They are built in a thousand small choices: choosing kindness over anger, perseverance over defeat, love over indifference.

Inside this special men’s issue, you’ll find stories of men making a difference here in North Peoria. Entrepreneurs, volunteers, fathers, brothers, mentors—all leaving a trail of positive impact in their quiet (and sometimes not-so-quiet) ways.

We hope you’ll not only celebrate the men in your life this month, but also take a moment to reflect on your own legacy—the one you are writing, consciously or unconsciously, every day.

This issue is dedicated to the men who came before us, the men walking beside us, and the men we are raising for the future. Your strength, your gentleness, your example—it matters more than you know.

June 2025

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

COPY EDITOR

Mimi Slawoff | mslwoff@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Nichole Eckman | nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Mel Boban, Katie Bobrow, Emily Foster Interiors, Angel Fuchs, Susan Lanier-Graham, Sydnee Wilson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography LLC

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Proverbs 3:5-6

TIRED OF HIDING YOUR LEGS?

At Lynch Vein & Aesthetics, our surgeon-led team offers advanced, in-office varicose vein treatments designed to relieve pain, restore confidence, and help you love your legs again. No hospitals. No downtime. Just real results.

Trust the Experts with an A+ BBB Rating. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward healthier, more beautiful legs. ✓ Minimally Invasive ✓ Medically Proven ✓ Personalized Care from Start to Finish

Now booking appointments online

Now taking United Health Care, Blue Cross Blue Shields, Cigna, USAA and Medicare www.lynchvein.com | 480-800-8346 info@lynchvein.com 26900 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy | Ste 209

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella puts a new spin on the beloved fairytale that follows Ella, a young woman who lives as a servant to her wickedly cruel stepmother and stepsisters. With the help of her Fairy Godmother, she attends the royal ball where she captures the heart of not only the prince, but the audience as well. Rediscover beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago” in this hilarious and romantic experience that continues to enchant audiences with the timeless themes of kindness, love, and the power of dreams. JUNE 20 THROUGH JULY 26, 2025

Special thanks to Dr. Keith and Kim Haar, generous sponsors of Cinderella

AUGUST 8 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13, 2025

Meet Michael Dorsey, a talented but difficult actor who struggles to find work due to his reputation. He finds himself willing to go above and beyond to land a role… even if it means disguising himself as a woman named Dorothy Michaels. To his surprise, he lands the role in a popular soap opera as Dorothy Michaels. Tootsie brings us on Michael’s journey as he navigates through the complications of leading a double life. Join us for this updated laugh-out-loud love letter to Broadway that explores themes of identity and authenticity while retaining the charm and humor of the original film. azbroadway.org | 623.776.8400

A Toast to Service

Mike Trott’s Mission: Serve Honorably. Drink Honorably. Sip to Remember.

Mike Trott, a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, and a U.S. Air Force veteran, has called Peoria home for nearly a decade. Initially drawn to Arizona by family ties, Trott and his family returned often until Peoria became their home. These roots have provided a solid foundation for Trott to co-found Four Branches Bourbon (FourBranches.com), a brand built on service and legacy.

LOVING THE UPPER WESTSIDE

Peoria’s steady growth and close-knit community inspired Trott to settle down.

“It’s a well-managed city, seeing incredible sustainable economic growth and stable home values. It’s great seeing more shopping, restaurants, parks, theaters, and other activities in our area,” says Trott, adding that proximity to the 101 and the new 303 freeways also makes travel more convenient.

Trott also loves the new ‘Upper Westside' description of North Peoria and enjoys the peaceful community with good friends nearby.

As co-founder and managing principal of Four Branches Bourbon, Trott oversees everything from communications to product development and distribution. When he’s not managing the brand’s expanding reach, he enjoys North Peoria's many amenities.

Among his favorite local spots are Char Pizzeria, Harkins Cine Grill, Black Rock Coffee Bar, and Bourbon and Bones—one of the venues that carries Four Branches.

“During the day, I’ll sometimes take a computer break and ride my Harley over to Black Rock Coffee Bar for a shot of caffeine,” he says.

While his ties to the local community are strong, the roots of Four Branches Bourbon run even deeper.

FOUR BRANCHES BOURBON IS A LEGACY

Founded by Trott and his three co-founders, Four Branches Bourbon represents more than just a brand. It’s a legacy. Along with US Air Force veteran Trott, Alfredo (Rick) Franco was a Marine, Robert (RJ) Casey was in the Army, and Harold Underdown was in the Navy. The four men share over 100 years of combined military and CIA service.

“The genesis of our brand and company was to honor a fellow Marine and close friend of my partner,” Trott says. “We quickly realized we collectively had many names of individuals we wanted to honor and recognize. It didn’t take long after this to realize we were friends from

four different branches of the military who wanted to use our company to recognize and remember others and celebrate all of life’s precious moments.”

Their mission is encapsulated in three guiding principles: Serve Honorably. Drink Honorably. Sip to Remember.

“We hope our brand messaging begins to take hold and will help modify the narrative around veterans and first responders who may struggle with alcohol use,” Trott says. “We want to help show others you can enjoy alcohol by drinking honorably, similar to drinking responsibly, and slowing it down to sip to remember and not use it as a means to forget difficult times.”

This commitment to honoring service and fostering connection naturally guided the founders to bourbon, a spirit steeped in American tradition.

“As founders, we all enjoy and appreciate what it takes to make bourbon and find it a ‘reflective spirit,’” says Trott. “As veterans, we have a history of taking a moment to toast someone or an event.”

Therefore, bourbon seemed like the perfect spirit to represent our appreciation of life, family, and the country we served. Bourbon is uniquely known as American whiskey, as it can only be produced and made in America.

The bourbon stands apart in a crowded market. Using a fourgrain mash bill consisting of corn, rye, barley, and wheat, Four Branches offers a complex and smooth flavor profile. Less than 10% of bourbons use this approach. Aged between four and eight years, each release pays tribute to craftsmanship and service.

That attention to detail has earned them acclaim. Their debut Founders Blend has already earned a double gold, two golds, and a silver in the prestigious San Francisco Spirits Awards. However, accolades aren’t the primary goal. For Trott and his team, it’s about impact.

CONTINUED

BOURBON WITH A CAUSE

Since launching the company just two years ago, Four Branches has raised over $400,000 for nonprofit organizations, many focusing on veterans, first responders, and children.

“As veterans who have experienced different types of loss, misfortunes, and physical disabilities over the years, we’ve all had to lean on others at times,” Trott says. “It’s just part of our nature, and we believe that giving back so others can receive the support they need during a difficult time brings us closer together as Americans and humans.”

This ethos fuels Trott’s passion for expanding Four Branches’ footprint, starting locally.

“We’ve been introducing our brand and message to more venues here in Peoria to grow our local community,” he says.

That local reach is about to expand even further. This month, specialty bourbon cases will arrive in Arizona, with more on the way.

“This year is the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marines, and in honor of their long and storied history, in June 2025, we’ll be releasing our second LTO named The Continental ,” says Trott.

This release will feature a special 9-year Straight Kentucky Bourbon at 102 proof, packaged in a commemorative design. Only 600 cases, totaling 3,600 bottles, will be available nationwide, and Trott doesn’t expect them to last long. Most will be sold through their website, with some cases available in Arizona.

Whether building a brand, riding his Harley, or raising a glass to service, Trott is grounded in a mission far beyond bourbon. For him, it’s about honor, remembrance, and community.

Get Out!

A Perfect Day Out with the Guys in Your Life

There’s something special about spending a day outdoors with the guys—your dad, husband, brother, son, or best friend. And here in North Peoria, we’re lucky to have an adventure-filled backyard. With miles of scenic desert trails, abundant top-rated golf courses, and the sparkling waters of nearby Lake Pleasant, the options for getting out and bonding with the men in your life are endless.

Stress Relief

Breakthrough Smash Room

Ready to unleash some serious chaos? Grab a bat, crowbar, or sledgehammer and smash, crash, and destroy everything in sight. Crank up your playlist, wreck to your heart’s content, and leave it all behind—no cleanup, no rules, just pure, unfiltered fun.

Adrenaline Rush

Dust N Wake Ride Shop

Catch some serious waves—or at least gear up for it—at the Valley’s first and only wakesurf and e-bike shop. Wakesurf boards, e-bikes, vests, and ropes from killer brands like Phase 5, Doomswell, and Lift Foil. Hit the water or trail geared up and ready to rip.

DUSTNWAKE.COM | @DUSTNWAKE

Photo courtesy Christine Andert— Picture Lady Photography LLC
Photo courtesy Christine Andert— Picture Lady Photography LLC

Maybe your perfect day starts with a sunrise hike along the Eastwing Mountain or Sunrise Mountain trails, or casting a line at Lake Pleasant as the desert slowly awakens. Maybe it includes teeing off under blue skies at one of Peoria’s many golf courses or grabbing a burger and swapping stories at The Links Neighborhood Grill (TheLinksGrill.com). Whatever your speed, North Peoria delivers.

For this month’s issue celebrating the men in our lives, we highlight four thrilling experiences beyond the usual weekend outing. Whether you’re smashing stuff with dad

at Breakthrough Smash Room ( BreakthroughSmashRoom. com ), finding gear required to catch big air at Dust N Wake Ride Shop ( DustNWake.com ), practicing your long drive at Topgolf Glendale ( Topgolf.com ), or soaring above the Sonoran Desert with Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Co. ( RainbowRyders.com ), these unforgettable adventures are all about making memories—and having fun while doing it.

So make a plan, grab your favorite guy, and get out there. These are the moments worth celebrating.

Great Game Sky High

Rainbow Ryders

Want to really blow dad’s mind? Take flight with Rainbow Ryders and float high above the desert in a hot air balloon. Watch the sun ignite the sky and the mountains stretch for miles—a view (and a memory) you’ll never forget.

Topgolf Glendale

Tee off, take aim, and trash-talk your way through an epic round at Topgolf Glendale. Whether you're smashing drives or just swinging for laughs, this high-energy spot delivers food, drinks, and serious fun—no golf experience (or polite golf claps) required.

TOPGOLF.COM | @TOPGOLF

Photo courtesy Rainbow Ryders
Photo courtesy Topgolf Glendale

A Brawny Ride

GUYS WILL APPRECIATE THE EVERYDAY VERSATILITY OF THE 2025 FORD EXPLORER ST RWD

The 2025 Ford Explorer ST RWD offers drivers a coveted blend of superior performance, ample space, and understated style.

This mid-size SUV is powered by a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it delivers strong acceleration and a smooth ride that feels stable and responsive in corners.

I recently enjoyed driving the 2025 Ford Explorer ST RWD in Ford’s Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, a pearlescent off-white shade with a beautiful gleam. The comfortable interior has plenty of space in the front, back, and cargo areas. The massaging seats were a luxury I could get used to. The vehicle

also features a 13.3” LCD touchscreen for easy at-a-glance navigation and a Bang & Olufsen sound system that delivers crisp audio throughout the cabin. While this vehicle was not the quietest I’ve tested, it was easy to handle and felt sturdy, reliable, and safe, making it an ideal choice for families who enjoy a little adventure and a lot of comfort.

The 2025 Ford Explorer ST RWD comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain warranty, and a five-year/60,000-mile Roadside Assistance Plan.

Fuel economy: 18 MPG City, 25 MPG Highway | MSRP as Tested: $57,895

Viva Las Vegas Roll

GIVE YOUR MAN HIS SPACE

A Look at The Man Cave

Ok ladies, for those of you that live with your man and are not too keen on his collection of deer heads or affinity for all things Chicago Blackhawks, then let me help you create his very own man cave, that you and he can be proud of.

COMFORTABLE SEATING

With how a man cave is usually done in mind, there are plenty of ways to make this hideaway both agreeable and full of style. I always start with what is most important to your man and 9 out of 10 times it is comfortable seating. So, with that in mind, I start with smart seating. Do we need a sectional? Can we get away with a cool reclining chair? Do we need Barstools? Comfortable, durable, and stylish seating is my jumping-off point.

CONTINUED >

THE RIGHT TELEVISION

Next, of course, there will need to be a TV for gaming and/or sports watching. Try and get him the size he wants, if it can work in space and not be too obnoxious (ladies, you’ll thank me later) because this is all men truly care about. He gets his big TV, then you have more of an opportunity to get what you want in the rest of the house. It’s a win-win.

EXPRESSIVE DECOR

Lastly, without getting too “theme-y,” I organize what he loves and treasures into a gallery wall. I recently did one wall of really cool wallpaper for a husband that was a huge Star Wars fan. It was a black and white Star Wars print that gave this aficionado a fun way to bring his subject matter and style together.

No matter who you are or what you like, I believe every person needs a space where he or she can relax, breathe and be joyful in. Man Caves are no exception.

Priceless Memories

Advice Editorial: Gift Giving Inspiration For Dads

Learn Together

Learning a new skill together, or sharing a favorite hobby, is a great way to bond. If Dad likes woodworking or fishing, finding a class to attend together goes beyond gifting tools and allows fun.

Retro Movie Night

Enjoy a movie night together with popcorn, candy and all the fixings. Home movies enable strolls down memory lane, or one of his favorite movies from his childhood makes for fun conversation. Ordering a projector for a large format screening makes the movie night feel extra theatrical.

Chef’s Kiss

Take the food pressure off Dad and invite local culinary experts to prepare a meal. A fun theme, based around his favorite vacation, such as Hawaiian food, will make the evening memorable. Alternatively, try a local cooking class together based on his favorite cuisine.

Blast From The Past

Brainstorm childhood memories together and enjoy a day reliving them. If he chaperoned a trip to the zoo, experience it again together. If short on time, stop at a favorite ice cream stand and tell him how much you cherish the memories.

SUMMER GRILL

RECIPES

THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER

The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!

DIRECTIONS:

1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag

2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.

3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.

4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.

5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.

6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).

7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Following is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.

*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.

SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK

INGREDIENTS:

• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*

• 2 Tablespoons lime*

• 2 Tablespoons finely,

chopped cilantro

• ¼ Cup olive oil or avocado oil

• ¼ White onion, finely chopped

• 1 Tablespoon cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

CHIMICHURRI

INGREDIENTS:

• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped

• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped

• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 3 Cloves garlic, minced

• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)

• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 Teaspoon salt

• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.

ROASTED CORN SALSA

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 Ears sweet corn

• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes

• ¼ Cup lime juice

• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)

• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped

• ½ Cup white onion, chopped

• 2 Cloves garlic, minced

• Salt to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.

2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.

3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.

4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.

SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY

DISCOVER THE WHIMSY OF THE WEST AT PAWS UP MONTANA

Favorably referred to as the “Last Best Place” and the “Treasure State,” Montana has captured the hearts of cinematic cowboys like Taylor Sheridan and Harrison Ford and inspired the television series, “Yellowstone” and its prequels, “1883” and “1923.” Though fictional, they’ve reminded America of its deeply-rooted spirit for adventure and the simple yet rugged way of life that we all crave. Whether its the backdrop of jagged, snowcapped peaks or the endless golden pastures that are peppered with livestock, this Rocky Mountain soil is a breeding ground for dreamers and doers, and the people who call it home are no strangers to the ritual of ranch life.

So, you want to be a cowboy? Slipping on some leather and having a little hide in your hat are good ways to start, but visiting a resort that brings the best of this life to the forefront, while also embracing modern luxury, is the experience of a lifetime.

Paws Up Montana sprawls the distance of 37,000 private acres of historic estateland, which houses a working ranch and 10 miles of Blackfoot river. Personalization is key—a divine selection of cuisine for the foodies, awe-inspiring activities for the adrenaline seekers, and world-class lodging that tickles every fancy from stargazing glamping, to timber-style family dwellings, to the uniquely designed green “o hauses” that invite the outside world in.

CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WHERE TO STAY

WHAT TO DO

To change your attitude, you need a change in altitude. Gain some speed or turn up the adrenaline level with ATV tours, electric biking, mountain biking, go-karts, paintball, rappelling down Lookout Rock or whitewater rafting down the Blackfoot River. Indulge in the western art of living with archery, fly-fishing, hiking or sporting clays. For those who want to immerse themselves in the language of horses, there are horse-related adventures such as lessons, grooming or feeding, horse-whispering workshops or organized trails rides. Riders can also enjoy cattle drives that bring you back to yesteryear—driving a herd of cattle across the famed landscape—and bear witness to mustang gentling, where the Equestrian Manager communicates with a wild horse through body language and tone of voice. Skyline Aerial Adventure Park is another notable warm-weather activity, taking guests on two high-ropes courses.

Luxury Homes are categorized into preference-based properties that boast the thrill of wilderness living. For larger families and multigenerational groups, consider the Wilderness Estates. At 3,250-square-feet, these estates sleep up to eight guests and feature three large suites with private baths. The Big Timber Homes are available in one-to-three bedroom options and come ornamented with fire places and private decks. The Meadow Homes are 1,100-square-foot single-story homes that sleep up to four guests, situated amid a pastoral and treed setting. For an extra nod of perfection, choose one of the luxury homes that comes equipped with a private tent—ideal for anyone traveling with children (or adults who beckon back their childhood!).

For a more primitive experience, Glamping Homes offer the right amount of canvas to create a close-to-nature experience. Available mid-May through mid-October, choose from river settings to creeksides, bluffs or cliffs. Each tent is adorned with something unique—a copper tub, a picturesque view of Lewis and Clark’s famous Lookout Rock and Western-chic furniture throughout. Zip down the windows to allow for the cool nightly breeze, yet enjoy the modern convenience of electricity. Each campsite has a dining pavilion. And don’t miss the s’mores boards around the communal fire pit, offered by your own s’moresologist—yes, you read that right, and yea, it’s a thing.

Lastly, but certainly not least, are the state-of-theart accommodations of the Green O hauses. This portion of the property is completely curated for those 21 years of age and older. It’s a resort within a resort, a hidden pearl in an oyster of experience. The Tree Haus is elevated 23 feet in the air and offers unparalleled forest views. The Green Haus includes a skylight above the bed for an unmatched view of pluck-em-from-thesky stars. The Round Haus has curved, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer 180-degree panoramic views. Both the Green and Round Hauses are dog friendly, too, so Fido can rest in the lap of luxury. The Light Haus is illuminated by skylights and unique glass design.

DRINK & DINE

Montana’s best kept secret? Our hideaway chefs, making waves from the Montana wilderness. Chef Brandon Cunningham, Executive Chef at the Green O, is a James Beard Award finalist whose creations at the Social Haus are highly curated through an 8-course tasting menu. Other highly trained and talented chefs like Chef Brett Edlund, Chef Ben Scott, Executive Pastry Chef Krystle Swenson, and Sunny Jin, the General Manager of Food and Beverage, are part of the intricate patchwork of the culinary experience at Pomp, Trough, Shed, Camp and the notable Chuck Wagon—a summertime treat where guests can ride a hay wagon along the banks of the Blackfoot River for an Old West-inspired chuck wagon dinner. The menu ranges from all-natural chicken and Tomahawk ribeye to fresh vegetables grilled over an open flame campfire.

HOW TO GET HERE

Airport: Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) Airport transfers from Missoula are complimentary for guests and all luxury home and Green O accommodations come with a Lexus luxury SUV for transportation use on property.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.