Merril Hoge:
An Inspirational Voice
Dr. Tania Cortas
LIFESTYLE
The Gentlemen’s Issue
Welcome to our annual Gentlemen’s Issue—where sharp style meets soft towels, smoky tequila, and stories worth pouring over. This one’s for the guys who don’t mind a face mask with their football, and who believe that self-care and steak— not to mention custom golf cars and a cowboy vacay—can (and should) coexist.
We kick things off with a conversation with Merril Hoge—yes, that Merril Hoge. Former NFL pow erhouse, cancer survivor, ESPN voice, and all-around force of nature. His story isn’t just about football; it’s about fighting the big fights and redefining what it means to be tough.
Next, we take you from the locker room to the treatment room with several relaxing men’s spa treatments that are anything but fluffy.
Of course, no gentlemen’s issue is complete without something to sip. We showcase a tequila brand that’s crafted with care, aged with intention, and perfect whether you’re toasting a victory or just making it to Friday, sipping it straight or mixing it into a cocktail.
Speaking of celebrations, for those wondering what to get someone for Father’s Day, we’ve got you covered with gift ideas that don’t involve socks or “World’s Best Dad” mugs (although those can be fun, too!). We’ve rounded up presents ranging from sleek and handy to unique that will make dad feel truly appreciated.
And finally, for the guy who likes to grill, we’ve got easy yet tasty crowd-pleasing recipes.
Enjoy your month!
Yours,
MICHELLE GLICKSMAN, EDITOR @SCOTTSDALECITYLIFESTYLE
June 2025
PUBLISHER
Alicia Haygood | alicia.haygood@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Michelle Glicksman
michelle.glicksman@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Faith Morello | faith.morello@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alison Bailin Batz, Rebecca L. Rhoades, Georgann Yara
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Danielle Muccillo
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 Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Scottsdale City Lifestyle’s Tailored For You was a high-fashion Met Gala-inspired evening. Fashion show by Phoenix Fashion Week and sponsored by Lamborghini. Photography by Sam Michael Studio and Manish Sharma
8-9: Guests at the DeAnna DuPree inaugural S.C.A.L.E Up Symposium. 10: DeAnna DuPree speaks at the DeAnna DuPree inaugural S.C.A.L.E Up Symposium. 11-14: The Inaugural Wiffle Ball Tournament between Miracle League and Big League Wiffle (BLW).
MICHAEL MAAMO
MICHAEL MAAMO
MICHAEL MAAMO
Kohler Bathroom Design
business monthly
Luxury Redefined: Scottsdale's Newest Boutique Hotel
This month, The REMI Scottsdale, Autograph Collection opens its doors, bringing luxury and experiential hospitality to the heart of Scottsdale's iconic Entertainment District. Designed for sensory seekers, social explorers, and modern individualists alike, the vibe-driven hub offers a sophisticated, eclectic, and immersive escape. The locale features five bold culinary experiences, including Japanese steakhouse Kauboi, and Scottsdale's tallest rooftop pool. Marriott.com/phxda
Photography Courtesy of The REMI Scottsdale
Gorjana Celebrates Landmark Opening of 100th Store
Gorjana, the Southern California–inspired jewelry brand famous for its effortless, everyday pieces, chose Scottsdale Fashion Square as the location to open its 100th store. Located on the lower level, the new store invites guests to explore Gorjana’s iconic collections, including an effortless blend of timeless elegance and modern style. True to the brand’s California-inspired ethos, the space offers a laid-back yet luxe experience. As always, personalized styling sessions are available with in-store experts. Gorjana.com
Photography Courtesy of Gorjana
Maya Day + Night Debuts Transformation for 2025 Season
Maya Day + Night, the iconic venue in Old Town Scottsdale, underwent a floor-to-ceiling transformation, reemerging as a luxurious, high-energy destination. The 15,000-square-foot locale presents a fusion of European elegance and desert mystique. Maya transports guests to "an enchanting paradise where earthy luxury meets pulsating energy." By day, the pool remains a popular destination, hosting world-renowned DJs and celebrity guests. By night, Maya transforms into an exotic sanctuary where sophisticated entertainment takes center stage. MayaDayClubAZ.com
Photography Courtesy of Maya Day + Night
Alani Skin MD Opens Newly Remodeled Scottsdale Location
Alani Skin MD, the medical spa known for its client-focused approach and science-backed aesthetic treatments, recently opened its remodeled location. Alani specializes in personalized aesthetic treatments designed to meet each individual's unique needs. Through the integration of cutting-edge technology and a tailored, results-focused approach, Alani helps clients meet their aesthetic goals and improve their overall well-being. The locale offers membership programs and outcome-based pricing. AlaniSkinMD.com
Photography Courtesy of Alani Skin MD
letter from the PUBLISHER
Welcome to our Men’s Issue—a celebration of style, substance, and the distinctive spirit of the modern man, all through the unique lens of Scottsdale living.
In this special edition, we spotlight men shaping our city and men-focused stories. We explore everything from fashion, gift ideas, summer recipes, and more. You’ll meet NFL legend Merril Hoge, who redefines what it means to be an inspiration off the field.
Whether you’re flipping through for inspiration, insight, or just a little indulgence, I hope this issue serves as a tribute to the men who live boldly, lead with integrity, and always keep an eye on what matters most.
Here’s to celebrating character, confidence, and connection—Scottsdale style.
Alicia Haygood Owner/ Publisher
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MERRIL HOGE
Finding a Way: MERRIL HOGE’S JOURNEY FROM NFL TO INSPIRATIONAL VOICE
The Former ESPN Analyst Turned Motivational Speaker Channels Personal Adversity Into a Message of Ownership, Healing, and Hope
Merril Hoge once believed life was as simple as setting a goal and chasing it with everything he had. From an 8-year-old boy in Idaho with a corkboard filled with dreams and inspiration to a starting running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, he seemed to have written the perfect success story. Then life intervened.
Today, long after the roar of stadiums has faded, Hoge carries a message forged in adversity: Find a way.
A KID WITH A DREAM
It all began in 1973. Hoge, then 8, wandered into his grandparents’ living room and saw something that would change his life: the Green Bay Packers on television.
Hoge had already been playing football in his backyard, but he had never seen it played on television.
“I didn’t even know football was on TV,” he says of the time. “But the moment I saw it, I said to myself, ‘That’s what I want to do.’ I love to play football, and I didn’t know they did that on television.”
That spark ignited something permanent. At 12, after a teacher told his class to write down their goals and post them where they could see them every day, Hoge asked his dad to build a corkboard wall in his bedroom. He wrote down all of his goals, with the top one being “I will play in the National Football League,” and pinned it to the corkboard.
It wasn’t just an expression of hope—it was a commitment.
“I made a commitment to that goal. Whatever work was required, I was going to do it,” Hoge says. “I was going to put all my eggs in that basket.”
LIVING THE NFL DREAM
True to his word—and with a lot of hard work, dedication, and focus on his dream—Hoge made it. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he played eight seasons, started in 122 consecutive games, which was a record at the time, and made the All-Madden Team.
“I wasn’t just on a roster,” he says. “I was contributing. I played well on Monday nights and in playoff games. But more importantly, I got everything out of my God-given abilities.”
That, he said, is what brings him peace: knowing he gave it his all.
“No one ever regrets doing their best,” he says. “You can’t control how things end, but you can control what you give. I did the very best I could with the talents that I had been given.”
BLINDSIDED BY LIFE
The end of Hoge’s football career came without warning. After seven seasons with the Steelers, he signed with the Chicago Bears in 1994. But that year, during a road game against the Kansas City Chiefs, he sustained a concussion. Several weeks later, he sustained another concussion, cardiac arrest, and a traumatic brain injury.
Not only did he have to retire from football, but he had to relearn basic skills like reading.
“I was 30 and had to start my life over,” he says. “It was the darkest place I’d ever been.”
He spiraled, stuck in anger and blame.
“I pointed fingers and made excuses every day for my career when it ended—how bad the doctors were, the Bears … I sat on the couch and pointed fingers and made excuses. But I wasn’t getting better,” he recalls. “Eventually, I realized I had to take ownership. I needed to create a new life. Once I stated to do that then, yes, I let a lot of people help me. But that first initial step is our own responsibility. There will be people to help you on your journey, but they’re not going to come get you off the couch.”
That shift became the foundation of his new life. By 1996, he was hired as an on-air analyst for ESPN.
“I loved every day at ESPN, and I credit that opportunity for saving me and helping me—number one because I was in a real bad cognitive state when I got there. I was still learning how to read again and remember. I was struggling and that position challenged me to do things that they now do in rehab [for injuries].
“It took me like two years, but what I’m getting at is that it forced me to do things cognitively that I had never done before, and that helped me repair my brain and recover.”
CANCER AND A PROMISE
Then he was thrown another obstacle. In early 2003, Hoge was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. During one of his chemotherapy sessions, his friend Charley Lavalle was there, filming a documentary about his day, and asked him to explain his dedication to the words “find a way” and how that not only helped him live his dream, but now fight to live.
Hoge thought about his children, who were 9 and 7 at the time, and the fact that at the time, there still wasn’t any certainty that his cancer treatments would be successful, and made a comment that if all went well, he’d write a book about it.
Though he hadn’t initially meant it seriously, a year later, Lavalle was back to hold him to his word.
The book led to a speaking engagement—and changed the course of his life.
“I never wanted to be a speaker,” Hoge says. “But after that first talk, someone came up to me and said, ‘You helped me see what’s possible.’ And I thought, maybe this isn’t about me.”
FINDING HIS VOICE
Today, Hoge travels the country speaking about resilience, mindset, and personal accountability. His message isn’t about inspiration—it’s about transformation.
“Motivation is personal. I can’t make anyone do anything,” he says. “But I can share what’s possible. I can help someone unlock what they already have inside them.”
His goal isn’t applause.
“If people walk away thinking about me, I failed,” Hoge says. “If they walk away thinking about themselves and what they can change, then I did my job.”
GIVING BACK THROUGH LOSS
Hoge’s heart for service is as strong as his competitive spirit. In Pittsburgh, he helped launch what later became the national CHIP program (Children’s Health Insurance Program), offering insurance to uninsured children. He also spent two decades as part of the Highmark Caring Place, a grief center born from shared tragedy.
“My friend Charley, who helped with the book, lost his son. I lost my mom as a kid,” Hoge says. “We realized grief has no timetable. Everyone heals differently.”
CONTINUED >
“If they walk away thinking about themselves and what they can change, then I did my job.”
Under Hoge’s and Lavalle’s leadership, The Highmark Caring Place expanded to multiple cities, offering families a safe space to process and begin healing.
“That work changed lives,” he says. “And it’s still one of the things I’m most proud of.”
SCOTTSDALE: A PLACE OF PEACE
Though he splits time between Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, Scottsdale remains close to Hoge’s heart.
“I built a home in Desert Highlands in the late ’90s,” he shares. “It’s still one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever lived. The mountains, the sunsets—it’s just peaceful.”
These days, he returns for speaking engagements and to catch up with old friends, including former Bengals coach Marvin Lewis. He also never misses a visit to Harold’s Cave Creek Corral.
“Great food, great people. It’s a must-stop for me,” he says.
THE JOURNEY FORWARD
Today, Hoge shows no signs of slowing down. He helped start the NFL’s Way to Play program and works with the Steelers on scouting evaluations. But his real mission is helping others reclaim their lives.
“I’ve been through the darkest moments life can throw at you,” he says. “Brain trauma, cancer, heartbreak. But you don’t have to stay there.”
His message remains the same: Find a way.
“You’re responsible for your journey,” Hoge reiterates, sharing once more that no one will pull you off the couch, but they’ll be there to help you once you start getting up.
Hoge admits that it took him a while to let go of his dream of a Super Bowl win once that possible achievement was forcibly taken from him, but he’s come to realize that other things are much more important.
“Whether you win a Super Bowl or not, whether life goes how you planned or not, what matters is that you gave your all,” he says. “That’s how you live without regret. That’s how you find peace.”
SCAN
ALL ABOUT AGAVE
Sueños Global Tequila Is Redefining How Arizona Sips Tequila
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SUEÑOS GLOBAL TEQUILA
Arizonans have long embraced tequila as more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a flavor, a moment worth savoring. Found in the heart of cocktail menus across the state, from elevated lounges to neighborhood favorites, tequila is woven into the fabric of Arizona’s culture. But one brand is quietly standing
“Our entire process is about purity. We let the agave speak for itself. It’s not about masking it— it’s about elevating it.”
apart, focusing not on flashy gimmicks but on craftsmanship, integrity, and a deep respect for Mexico’s most iconic spirit.
Founded in the Lowlands of Jalisco and now proudly launched in Arizona, Sueños Global Tequila is bringing something special to the glass: a tequila that honors tradition, prioritizes quality, and showcases the beauty of doing things the right way.
“We’re making tequila with care and intention,” says Charity Johnston, president of Sueños. “Sueños is 100% additive-free, small-batch, and crafted in a way that prioritizes flavor, balance, and authenticity. We cut significant amounts of the heads and tails during distillation to ensure a cleaner, more premium product.”
Sueños was founded by husband-and-wife duo Nick and Megan MacDonell, a chef and an artist
whose vision was to create something meaningful—a tequila that could be shared with family and friends while honoring the traditions and people behind it. After relocating from Oregon to Mexico in 2019, the couple opened a restaurant called Sueños in Sayulita and began their journey into tequila production.
Their search for the right partner led them to a smallbatch distillery in Amatitán, a town revered for its rich tequila heritage. There, they connected with a family whose tequila-making legacy spans generations.
Each bottle of Sueños starts with Blue Weber agave grown in the lowlands of Jalisco, harvested only after reaching full maturity at seven years. Every bottle contains 8–9 kilos of agave, far above the industry average. This higher agave content translates into an elegant and complex flavor profile—without the use of any additives.
“Our entire process is about purity,” says Jessica Rupnik, vice president of marketing. “We let the agave speak for itself. It’s not about masking it—it’s about elevating it.”
Sueños offers three expressions: Blanco, which is vibrant and crisp with notes of sweet agave, citrus, and soft minerality; Reposado, aged three months in both charred bourbon and California chardonnay barrels, adding hints of toasted agave, honeysuckle, and caramelized oak; and Añejo, aged 13 months in a blend of bourbon and red wine barrels, developing deeper notes of chocolate, roasted agave, and baking spice.
“We created a tequila meant for sipping, but one that also shines in a cocktail,” Johnston explains. “It’s meant to bring people together.”
And it’s catching on. Sueños can now be found at many of the Valley’s top restaurants and cocktail destinations, including First & Last, Barcoa Agaveria, Rough Rider, Alma, Little Snitch, Vic & Ola’s, Taco Guild, and The Larder & The Delta. For those wanting to enjoy it at home, bottles are available at Trevor’s and Devil’s Liquor.
With a deep respect for its Mexican roots and a mission grounded in community, creativity, and craft, Sueños Global Tequila is more than a drink— it’s a movement.
SuenosGlobalTequila.com
Spa Treatments Tailored to Men
Dude Decompression
Since 2020, the rate of men visiting spas has tripled, and today they make up the fastest-growing segment in wellness.
Local spas have noticed, adding amenities and treatments including detoxifying wraps, anti-aging facials, sports massages, and healing soaking tub sessions for the fellas.
ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Scottsdale Princess
Well & Being Spa offers The Healthy Male, a holistic approach to men’s wellness featuring facials, body work, training, health assessments, stretching programs, and more to address men’s unique needs. In addition, the Fairmont Princess is also home to SisleyParis Spa at Well & Being Spa. The spa-within-a-spa concept at Well & Being is renowned for its Phyto-Aromatic Facial, which is designed exclusively for men and fights their unique signs of aging, while hydrating and correcting discoloration and scarring, especially from acne. All treatments at both spas are paired with time in the sauna, steam room, and cold plunge.
Joya boasts a full host of pre-treatment amenities, notably a Mediterranean bath ritual that blends hot, cold, dry, and wet circuits to cleanse the body and soul. There are also a host of men’s treatments, such as the Gentleman’s Facial, which targets sun and stress-related damage, as well as the Restorative Sleep Journey, which incorporates reflexology pressure points in the feet, hands, and scalp, combined with a massage and hot towel foot treatment to encourage more restful sleep.
OmniHotels.com/hotels/scottsdale-montelucia ArizonaBiltmore.com
Tierra Luna envelops its guests in the tranquil Sonoran Desert for a host of healing rituals outdoors, as well as more traditional sauna and steam options inside. Each of the rituals serves as the perfect complement to one or more treatments onsite, notably The Gentleman’s Cleanse & Refresh experience, which exfoliates the skin while massaging and firming, and the newly launched Marine Detox, which is loaded with minerals and essential oils.
SOUTHERN CHARM in San Diego
THE ALMA IS FAMILY- AND PET-FRIENDLY
ARTICLE BY ALICIA HAYGOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The lobby bar
Find Southern California charm at the award-winning Alma San Diego Downtown, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel.
My recent visit included a stay in the Presidential Suite, which offered beautiful views and plenty of room for my family of four.
The family-friendly locale is home to Leave of Absence, a seasonal rooftop restaurant and bar known for wood-fired pizzas and signature cocktails, and The Café, a cozy lobby bar and restaurant known for its weekly programming that brings together locals and visitors alike with its live music by local musicians to Paint & Sip “classes,” and more.
My husband and I enjoyed the hotel bar, where we sipped delicious cocktails and enjoyed a selection of appetizers.
In addition to its food and drink offerings, Alma brings the community together through various yoga classes, such as their Zin + Zen events; seasonal pet-friendly events, like Paw La La La La, the dog-friendly photo sessions with Santa; rooftop activations; and more.
The hotel is located in a convenient area of San Diego, between Balboa Park and the historic Gaslamp Quarter, with plenty of restaurants and nightlife within walking distance. In fact, it’s within 20 minutes of a range of activities for date nights, family experiences, or solo expeditions.
Our family took the railcar to the USS Midway.
With a Four Diamond rating from AAA and Silver Award from Travel Weekly’s 2024 Magellan Awards, Alma is pet- and family-friendly, and ideal for visitors looking for a fun getaway.
A suite living room
The hotel is located in a convenient area of San Diego, between Balboa Park and the historic Gaslamp Quarter, with plenty of restaurants and nightlife within walking distance.
JUST DRIVE
ARTICLE BY GEORGANN YARA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIELLE MUCCILLO
FROM FLASHY COLOR COMBOS TO BIG WHEELS, CUSTOM GOLF CARS’ RIDES DEMAND ATTENTION BEYOND THE GREENS
At first glance, it may seem like just one little letter. Some think it’s a typo.
But for Custom Golf Cars owners Todd Crouch and Kelly Jones, how the name of their business is spelled is an intentional huge detail that separates their longtime company from the pack.
The automotive dealer’s license that hangs on the wall is more proof of the full above-and-beyond lineup of services that they offer.
“All other golf cart places sell them like a toy, not a dealer,” Crouch says. “I think of them as cars. You drive them, you don’t pull them.”
This is the kind of respect and attention to detail that is at the heart of what has driven Custom Golf Cars for the last 36 years. Crouch is a 41-year industry veteran, having spent decades selling, buying, customizing, repairing, rebuilding, and doing every job required to make customers’ golf cart dreams a functional and enjoyable reality.
And taking care of those customers long after the sale is among the ways Custom Golf Cars differentiates itself from most, which are either not equipped nor bother to make the effort should a problem arise and the owner doesn’t know where else to turn.
“We treat it like a car and we are the dealer. If you have a problem with your car, you can go back,” says Crouch, who purchased the company in 2017 along with his wife and business partner Jones. “We are a family-run business. Our sons and daughter, nephew and sister are part of our team.”
The popularity of golf carts—and customizing them to fit every lifestyle’s needs and wants—came during the pandemic when people saw them as a handy way to make short trips to the park or nearby store. This is also when golf carts sporting six seats started to appear, as parents used them to take their kids to school.
This, Crouch explains, raised these vehicles from strictly on the greens territory to second- or third-car status in more households.
Still, there’s so much more to these compact open-air rides than the two seats, basic steering wheel, and ability to leisurely get from point A to point B that comes to mind for the casual observer.
And with Custom Golf Cars, Crouch makes sure to drive that point home.
“So many people just leave it for golf and they don’t appreciate the differences with some of them,” he says.
Custom Golf Cars is the only Authorized Atlas dealer in the state of Arizona, and Atlas is arguably the most respected name in the business, with an expert ownership representing more than 150 years in the golf cart industry and a product that is assembled and designed in South Carolina.
The inventory features new and pre-owned golf cars, all of which can be customized and tricked out to its owner’s desire. The sky’s the limit, and Custom Golf Cars team has never had a request that couldn’t be fulfilled.
“What gives me the best feeling is when we are able to help someone who’s at their wits’ end and we’re able to fix it,” Crouch says. “It’s nice to help people.”
A custom golf car owner himself, Crouch admits there are other perks of being part of the golf car realm.
“To get in the golf car instead of my big diesel truck to go to the store … it’s kind of fun.”
“ALL OTHER GOLF CART PLACES SELL THEM LIKE A TOY, NOT A DEALER.”
SUMMER GRILL RECIPES
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
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!
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
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.
SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK
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.
SUM MER
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 estate-land, 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
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.
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.
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Bright Endocrinology offers comprehensive and personalized Concierge Endocrine Medicine memberships. Dr. Saran takes great pride in delivering top-tier care to patients in the entire Valley.
WHERE TO STAY
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-ofthe-art 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-the-sky 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.
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.
Need Father’s Day gift inspiration? We’ve got you!
1: LO & SONS HANOVER 2 BACKPACK
Lightweight and spacious travel backpack. $238. LoAndSons.com
2: MANLY BANDS X FENDER THE 1954 Made of authentic Fender materials, including a bronze acoustic guitar string inlay. $650. ManlyBands.com
3: CAMBRIA LUGGAGE COLLECTION
A new collection from Ricardo Beverly Hills. $99-$200. RicardoBeverlyHills.com
4: LECTRIC EBIKES XP4 America’s best-selling eBike upgraded. $99. LectriceBikes.com
5: PRESS COFFEE’S WORLD’S GREATEST DAD BLEND
A limited-time blend. Multiple Valley locations. $16. PressCoffee.com
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Every baseball season, we scale from a handful of employees to hundreds of coaches, players and other staff. Onboarding and payroll processing for these new hires is a huge undertaking. Thankfully, Trion, one of the country’s most trusted Professional Employer Organizations, has a wealth of resources to handle our unique HR challenges, including visa and immigration issues. Trion’s PEO offerings simplify seasonal tasks, ensuring everyone gets to play ball. And that’s why we rely on Trion. Visit RelyonTrion.com
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