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Stay informed while you stay warm this season.

Local dining deals and reviews Top day-trip destinations and travel tips Credible and trusted community news Arizona bucket lists 24/7 access to our newsroom with full digital access Theater times and reviews Coupons and local savings National news from the USA TODAY NETWORK

TO OUR READERS

We're here to help WELCOME BACK TO ARIZONA. We’re glad you’ve returned – and that you’ve picked up this annual guide.

We’ll fill you in the news you’ve missed and help you make the most of your time here.

I’d also like to catch you up on our new Here to Help AZ initiative and our efforts to give back to the community.

First, Here to Help AZ. If you believe you have been the victim of a scam or a ripoff, or that a business hasn’t treated you fairly, our Here to Help AZ team was created to investigate. We’re also building a library of information about how to be a smarter consumer.

The articles can be found in The Arizona Republic and at heretohelpaz.azcentral.com. You can also contact consumer investigations reporter Rebekah L. Sanders by emailing rsanders@azcentral.com or by texting “HereToHelpAZ” to 51555.

Since we launched in the spring, Here to Help AZ has proven to be incredibly popular with all of our readers. We hope you’ll check it out.

Our giving-back efforts are intended to help make our community the best it can be for everyone.

Republic readers helped the annual Season for Sharing campaign raise $2.3 million during the holidays last year. In March, we gave every penny away to 153 non-profits that help children and families, aid older adults, boost education and fight domestic violence. The bulk of donations came from our subscribers. Thank you.

Also since you’ve been gone, we named our second Don Bolles/Arizona Republic investigative reporting fellow at Arizona State University. We fully cover

the cost of a student who can carry on the legacy of Bolles, a Republic reporter who was assassinated 42 years ago while reporting on mafia ties in the Valley.

Also at ASU, we again hosted our annual media innovation summer camp, where 20 high schoolers imagined the news world of the future. Both efforts were funded by subscribers who donate to the cost of their subscription to Media in Education when they temporarily stop their subscriptions for vacations or summer trips back home.

Another effort led by The Republic is our “It Shouldn’t Hurt to be a Child” child welfare initiative.

Through the sales of the specialty license plate, we generated $300,000 for 10 non-profits that are working to prevent child abuse and neglect.

The Republic helped create the program in 1999.

Since then, it’s generated more than $9 million in grants.

We take our journalistic responsibilities very seriously, as you’ll see throughout this guide. But we also take seriously our responsibility to help make Arizona a better place by giving back to our community.

If you need details about anything I’ve mentioned here – or any of the The Republic’s other philanthropic efforts, go to givingback.azcentral.com, give me a call or send me an email.

And, again, welcome back.

Stacy Sullivan COMMUNITY RELATIONS DIRECTOR THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC/AZCENTRAL.COM 602-444-8749, SSULLIVAN@AZCENTRAL.COM

ARIZONA REPUBLIC | 2018-2019 WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE

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Education has been front and center this election season in Arizona. Whether the momentum carries through November remains to be seen, but education issues dominated headlines while you were away.

Tens of thousands of educators marched to the state Capitol to begin a six-day walkout that ended May 4. The teacher’s returned to work after the state Legislature approved a budget that went along with Gov. Doug Ducey’s plan to boost Arizona public school teacher’s pay 20 percent by 2020.

Arizona teachers are among the lowest paid in the nation, but better pay is only part of what teachers seek. They want education funding restored to pre-recession levels. In November, a ballot initiative will ask voters to raise the income tax rate on the state's highest earners. Organizers say the measure combined with the budget increase would effectively restore the $1.1 billion in cuts to school funding since the recession.

Between that and the race to replace Sen. Jeff Flake, a governor’s race and other state and local elections, year-round Arizonans may be blurry-eyed from campaign commercials by the time you return.

Phoenix mayor resigns In local politics, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton resigned in May to run for a congressional seat. A mayoral election is scheduled for November with a possible runoff election in March.

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

Mega store not coming, but popular discount grocer is Outside of politics, in May, furniture giant IKEA pulled the plug on plans for a second Arizona store in Glendale. Lovers of complicated furniture assembly and Swedish meatballs will have to continue to trek to Tempe to get their IKEA fix.

Meanwhile, Aldi grocery stores are finally making their way to Arizona. Word first surfaced that the discount grocer, popular in other parts of the U.S., would open a store off Interstate 10 in Buckeye in early 2019. The Arizona Republic has since learned Aldi stores are planned in Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Goodyear, Laveen, Peoria, Phoenix and Tempe.

Mega events comings The NFL announced in May that Arizona will host its fourth Super Bowl in 2023 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale. The Grand Canyon State will follow it up a year later by hosting its second NCAA Final Four men's basketball championship at the stadium.

Speaking of sports For the first time in Phoenix Suns’ history, the franchise landed the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft in June. The Suns selected University of Arizona player Deandre Ayton. “It’s a dream come true,” he said. “I’m very happy to be a Phoenix Sun.”

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Birds and butterflies abound in southeast Arizona Leigh Farr SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

For those of us whose daily encounters with birds are limited to commonplace species found in backyards or city parks, it may come as a surprise that Southeast Arizona is home to nearly 500 unique avian species, more than half of the nation’s bird types.

“We’re in such an amazing spot,” said Cristina Francois, director of the Appleton-Whittell Research Ranch of the National Audubon Society in Elgin, Arizona. “We have this epic biodiversity in our Sky Island region where the Sierra Madre and Rocky Mountains, Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts all meet.”

Where to See Birds Some of the best natural bird habitats in Southeast Arizona include Mount Lemmon, Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Sabino Canyon, Madera Canyon, Paton Center for Hummingbirds, Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve, Ramsey Canyon Preserve, Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge and the Chiricahua National Monument.

Birdwatchers come from all over the world to see such resident or migratory species as the elegant trogon, yellow billed cuckoo, scaled quail, Montezuma quail, violet-crowned hummingbird, spotted owl, screech owl and sandhill crane.

The best time of day to see birds is early in the morning. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars, plenty of water, a hat, sunblock and a bird guide. Francois recommends “Birds of Southeastern Arizona” by Richard Taylor and “Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona” produced by the Tuc-

son Audubon Society. Before heading out, google Tucson Audubon or Arizona eBird to discover what birds are being seen and in what area.

Best Butterfly Habitats If butterflies are on your to-see list in Arizona, you’ve come to the right place.

“Due to the meeting of all those different ecosystems in the Sky Islands, southeast Arizona is a biological hotspot for both tropical and North American species. Add to that our monsoons which push this huge growth of plants that attract all sorts of herbivores including butterflies and moths,” Francois said.

If you want to see a wide diversity in a short amount of time, Francois recommends visiting Mount Lemmon.

“Mount Lemmon has so many different ecotypes that in just the 26 miles from the desert of Tucson to the forest at the top of the mountain you can view what is the ecological equivalent of transversing our entire nation. You can see so much diversity just by stopping and checking out the different vegetation zones.”

Butterflies also frequent habitats with water.

“Those areas have really good vegetation and moisture,” Francois said. “A lot of times at those mud puddles, several species of butterflies will sip water from the mud.”

The best time for butterfly viewing is early to mid-day. Butterflies don’t have their own body heat so they come out after the desert has been warmed by the sun.

LEIGH FARR WRITES about people, places and things all over Arizona, and is a frequent contributor to Republic Media. To read more about unique Arizona destinations, check out azcentral.com.

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

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ROAD TRIPS

5 Arizona road trips to take this winter My first trip to the Grand Canyon, the first time (and every time thereafter) I glimpsed the red rocks of Sedona, my first Sonoita sunset. Anytime I have ventured beyond the Valley, I’ve been met by Arizona’s striking beauty. Looking to get out of the city for the day (or two or three)? It’s a beautiful time of year to go on an adventure and explore our rich and diverse state. Throw some water and snacks in the car, and buckle up. Here are five road trip ideas.

The I-10 to Elgin We often want to escape northward to get out of the heat. So, the southern part of our state often doesn’t get the credit it deserves. But when you hop on the I-10 and head southwest of Tucson, you’ll experience the beauty of Arizona’s ranchlands. Spend the night in Sonoita and Elgin and savor Southern Arizona’s often-overlooked (but so very tasty) wine country. Got a little extra time? Continue on State Route 82 to the 90 and check out Kartchner Caverns. (Get tickets in advance.)

London Bridge, Lake Havasu City Just a few hours northwest of Phoenix sits a favorite Arizona attraction — the London Bridge. The bridge, which was purchased by Lake Havasu City founder Robert P. McCulloch for nearly $2.5 million in 1968, was painstakingly disassembled in London and then shipped through the Panama Canal to be reconstructed here. Spend some time on a walking tour, on boat ride or doing a little shopping.

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

ROAD TRIPS

89-A, All the Way If you’ve never visited the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff or Sedona, they really are must-sees.

And Highway 89A, which connects Sedona to Flagstaff is truly a gorgeous stretch of road.

But don’t stop there. Stay on 89A from Sedona to Cottonwood and Jerome and then on toward Prescott. I love Prescott’s historic downtown area and the local museums, and Jerome may be small, but its history is fascinating, and the tasting rooms are worth the stop.

Antelope Canyon The winding sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon (and the photos you’ll get) are worth the drive. This slot canyon is quite popular, and you need to go with a guide, so make reservations in advance. Then, stay overnight in nearby Page, and take the time to check out scenic Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon Dam and National Recreation Area.

Stephanie Conner SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

The 60 East to Superior You’ve gone north, south and west. Now, it’s time to venture eastward. Just an hour on the US60 will land you in Superior, where you can explore Arizona’s mining history. Plus, the Boyce Thompson Arboretum offers an opportunity to take in some desert flora. And on your way back to the Valley, stop off at Lost Dutchman State Park for a hike or picnic.

STEPHANIE CONNER writes about people and travel in Arizona, and is a frequent contributor to Republic Media.

To read more about travel destinations in the state, check out azcentral.com.

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EXPLORE ARIZONA

Brian Sodoma SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

Haunted hotels, watering holes and gunfights along Arizona’s stretches of Route 66

You can’t really say Arizona has breathed new life into its proud patches of Route 66, but perhaps we can admit some of its residents are a bit stubborn about putting the ‘ol highway to rest. In Arizona, Route 66 lore—and still considerable asphalt—is alive and well. Each year, thousands venture to destinations along the old gateway from Chicago to Los Angeles to find old places still firmly holding to their stories. Here are a few spots to consider if you’re up for a Route 66 adventure.

WINSLOW

54. And guests are still baffled by how the lamp over the pool table inside the Zane Grey Ballroom sways without being touched. Many, however, opt to ignore the tall tales and enjoy great beer and food at The Gopher Hole Pub or Charly’s Pub & Grill.

When the Eagles sang “Take It Easy” in 1972, Winslow was a bustling tourist town with a solid number of railroad workers populating it. With the development of the I-40 bypass, economic activity declined, and locals in the 1990s worked to reinvigorate tourism. Today, there’s “Standin’ On The Corner” Park to commemorate the song and the La Posada Hotel, designed by Arizona architect Mary Colter in 1930. La Posada means “the resting place” and the site boasts warm hospitality and a reenergized garden alive with Cottonwoods, roses and tranquility. Here, the buzz of hummingbirds take care of the music. No eagles needed.

Seligman represents the start of a roughly 150-mile stretch of Route 66 that heads west to the California border. Local barber, Angel Delgadillo, is credited for harnessing the Route 66 preservation movement that gave the dusty town a prominent place in Route 66 history today. Enjoy a burger at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap drive-in and head west.

FLAGSTAFF

OATMAN

In Flagstaff, you’ll find Route 66 meandering through main sections of the city. Flagstaff offers hard evidence of the old road, too, with a 770-foot original asphalt slab woven into the city’s bike trail system. Just one block north of Route 66, in downtown, you’ll also find the Weatherford Hotel. Built in 1897, the structure still embraces its original turn of the century architecture, but it’s also rumored to be haunted by ghosts, one a heartbroken bride who apparently lost her life in room

SELIGMAN

Standing on a corner in the once-thriving gold mining town of Oatman might land you in the middle of a gunfight—put on by local volunteers shooting blanks, of course. Wild burros from the nearby Black Hills still wander into town daily to pay a visit. The Oatman Hotel hosted Clark Gable and Carol Lombard and Gable enjoyed coming back to play a little poker with the locals. Just over 100 people call Oatman home today.

All are working hard to keep its story alive.

BRIAN SODOMA writes about all things Arizona and is a frequent contributor to Republic Media.

To explore more of Arizona’s byways, check out azcentral.com.

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

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The Valley offers plenty of inspirational views – up high and even underground. You’ll want to escape the desert chill and see Arizona from every angle with these awesome guided tours.

TJ Gibson SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

KARTCHNER CAVERNS Discovered in November 1974 by Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts – the original size of the cave opening was about the size of a grapefruit! It was kept secret until 1978. And the rest is history. Literally.

From bats to stalagmites, the cave is home to at least 5 world record formations – formed over millions of years and still growing. Be prepared to part with your phone and other belongings (including strollers, canes, backpacks, purses) for the duration of the tour (lockers are available); Arizona State Parks & Trails keeps this cave pristine and all-natural.

The temperature inside the cave is always around 78 degrees. And dark! Headlamp and photo tours are special offers for the cave. Kartchner Caverns State Park was named an International Dark Sky Park in 2017, so stay after your tour and explore the night sky!

RAINBOW RYDERS: HOT AIR BALLOON EXCURSIONS Seeing the Valley from above is a once-in-alifetime experience. Rainbow Ryders, the largest hot air balloon business serving the Southwest for over 35 years, offers scenic hot air balloon rides daily.

Rainbow Ryders launches over 1,950 hot air balloon flights per year. The company offers sunrise and sunset rides or private balloon rides. But sign up early because the views are popular!

JEROME HISTORICAL TOURS AND GHOSTS! If you’ve never been to the town on stilts, you’re missing out! Great wine, incredible views, unique food, and a history steeped in part lore, part wild west makes this town one of Arizona’s treasures. Ghost Town Tours offers historic and haunted tours in America’s largest ghost town.

Entertaining and fascinating, the truth behind this old mining town is stranger than fiction. But don’t be scared, Jerome is spooktacular with or without the creepy-factor.

QUEEN MINE Speaking of old mining towns… Arizona was built on the five C’s (cattle, climate, citrus, cotton and copper). In the cool underground of Bisbee, Arizona sits the Queen Mine. With almost 100 years of continuous production, the Queen Mine was one of the largest mining districts in the world. Experts (retired Phelps Dodge employees) lead guests 1,500 feet into the mine for an in-depth view and insight into the dangers and drama of one of Arizona’s best southern historic towns.

GRAND CANYON RAILWAY At Arizona’s northernmost tip sits one of the seven wonders of the world. And the greatest way to see it has to be by railway! This 130-mile roundtrip experience is true wild west. But you’re not just engaged in the incredible changing scenery passing by but entertained with cowboys and musicians roaming the antique restored rail cars.

TJ GIBSON writes about people and places and things in Arizona, and is a frequent contributor to Republic Media. To read more about Arizona, check out azcentral.com.

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

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ARTS

Hot tickets, cool temperatures

The most sought-after productions, concerts, plays and performances happen during the Winter in the Valley.

Elise Riley SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

DOWNTOWN PHOENIX No matter the time of year, downtown Phoenix is always a bustling hub of activity day and night. But in the wintertime, that’s especially the case as the performing arts scene heats up. Depending on your tastes, you could take in an evening with Phoenix Symphony, Ballet Arizona or Arizona Opera, catch a rock band on its national tour at Talking Stick Resort Arena, watch a regional theater performance at the Herberger Theater Center, or enjoy a night of stand-up comedy at Comerica Theatre – all are within a half-mile of one another.

Even better, the metro Phoenix Light Rail system connects downtown’s theater venues with two of the area’s premier arts destinations just a couple miles north, the Phoenix Art Museum and Heard Museum.

Feel like reveling in Phoenix’s winter temperatures while enjoying the arts? Then head downtown the first Friday of the month to enjoy First Fridays, an evening arts celebration. All galleries and studios are open to the public in this interactive, public art walk.

Winter highlights: • Fleetwood Mac, Talking Stick Resort Arena, Nov. 28 • Jim Gaffigan, Comerica Theatre, Dec. 8 • Handel’s Messiah, Phoenix Symphony, Dec. 12-16 • La Traviata by Verdi, Arizona Opera, Jan. 25-27 • World Championship Hoop Dance Competition, Heard Museum, Feb. 9-10 SCOTTSDALE Sure, it’s the West’s Most Western Town, but Scottsdale proves that you can be a legitimate arts connoisseur while wearing cowboy boots. The city’s arts district includes not just its famous Main Street – home to dozens of galleries and the Scottsdale Art Walk – but also its fantastic performing arts center and museum.

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

Positioned next to one another, the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Arts (SMoCA) prove that the arts scene in the Valley is about much more than downtown Phoenix.

Head to the Center for the Performing Arts to watch national and international tours of dancers, musicians, spoken-word artists, drama, comedy and much more. Any given week, you can listen to a renowned essayist or experience belly-ache laughter during a comedy performance. Each season, SMoCA presents 2-5 exhibitions showcasing modern art, design and architecture.

Winter highlights: • Sister’s Christmas Catechism, Dec 7-16 • Branford Marsalis Quartet, Jan 23 EAST VALLEY The East Valley suburbs of Tempe, Mesa and Chandler also support a vibrant arts scene. When it comes to Broadway-caliber performances, the clear destination in the Valley is ASU Gammage. This historic venue hosts not just presidential debates, but also standing-room only crowds to watch performances such as Hamilton, Les Miserables, The Book of Mormon and other large-scale tours. Mesa Arts Center hosts many national jazz artists, while the Chandler Center for the Arts is a frequent stop for expert speakers such as travel guru Rick Steves or Cesar Millan, the “dog whisperer.”

Winter highlights: • Dear Evan Hansen, ASU Gammage, Nov. 27-Dec. 2 • Disney’s Aladdin, ASU Gammage, Jan. 31-Feb. 17 • An Afternoon with Shirley MacLaine, Chandler Center for the Arts, Feb. 10

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HEALTHCARE

Valley is in good health Julie Maurer SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

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PHOENIX IS THE SECOND-FASTEST GROWING CITY IN THE NATION,

according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and the healthcare organizations in the Valley have expanded to meet the demand.

More patients mean more beds, and hospital systems are adding to their count.

The Valley’s largest healthcare system, Banner Health, continues its construction on the new tower at Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix. The Valley’s largest healthcare system, Banner Health, continues its construction on the new tower at Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix. Construction is expected to be complete in November 2018, and includes 278 patient beds, a new emergency department and trauma center, operating rooms and lab space.

In June 2018, Banner also announced plans to construct a new hospital in Chandler.

The four-story, hospital will be located on the southeast corner of Alma School Road and Loop 202 Santan Freeway.

“We want to provide convenient care that is close to home for our patients and their families,” said Becky Kuhn, Banner’s chief operating officer stated in a press release.

“Chandler and the surrounding

WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

Southeast Valley is growing fast and we want to make sure our patients and health plan members have care when and where they need it.”

Dignity Health and Phoenix Children’s Hospital announced a joint venture this year to build a new tower at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. Dignity also announced this year that it would be breaking ground on an expansion of its Chandler Regional Medical Center campus, with a new tower that will add more than 130 new beds, as well as offer more room for surgical suites, outpatient services and patient parking.

HonorHealth could not be reached for comment, but the organization does own property and has plans to build a hospital in North Phoenix at I-17 and Dove Valley.

Maricopa Integrated Health System announced in February that it acquired Maryvale hospital and will be reopening its Emergency Department in early 2019, along with reopening the hospital as a 203-bed behavioral health hospital.

Abrazo Healthcare is entering the East Valley market with a new “microhospital” in Mesa.

The 32,500 square-foot building will feature 12-bed emergency

department, an operating room and eight inpatient rooms, surgery, diagnostic imaging, laboratory, pharmacy and other outpatient services. In the West Valley, the Abrazo West Campus recently added a new biplane imaging Interventional Radiology suite “Medical care continues to evolve with a consumer focus and this is a new model for bringing healthcare services into the community,” said Abrazo Market CEO Frank Molinaro in a press release.

With all these projects in the works, along with the addition of more urgent care facilities, standalone emergency rooms, and primary care clinics Valley residents have plenty of options when it comes to their healthcare needs.

Julie Maurer writes about healthcare in the Valley and is a frequent contributor to Republic Media. To read more about healthcare in Arizona, subscribe by going to fullaccess.azcentral.com or calling 602-444-1000 within the Phoenix area or 800-332-6733 outside the Phoenix area.

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CASINOS

Casinos: Moneymakers for all

Debra Gelbart SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

CASINOS IN ARIZONA ARE MORE THAN AN EXHILARATING FORM OF ENTERTAINMENT FOR WINTER VISITORS.

At approximately 25 casinos operated by 18 Native American tribes across the state, more than $4 billion in sales are generated every year. In fiscal 2017, the tribes made about $90 million in gaming-related payments to Arizona state government, and $12 million more went to counties, cities and towns around the state, according to the Arizona Department of Gaming.

These tax and direct payments to governmental entities support—among many other programs and causes—Arizona's Instructional Improvement Fund for education and the Arizona Benefits Fund, which is directed toward education, health care, wildlife conservation, tourism and problem-gambler education, prevention and treatment. In the past 15 years, more than $1.2 billion has been directed to the Arizona Benefits Fund from tribal gaming. This includes more than $600 million for the education system in the state.

Have fun, help Arizona So when you, as a winter visitor, spend time at a casino, you’re doing more than enjoying an

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

unforgettable experience. You’re helping a state where you spend a lot of time to provide more services to many worthy recipients.

No matter where you choose to live in Greater Phoenix, you won’t be far from a place to play.

Eight tribal casinos are located in the Valley.

They’re open 24/7 and include hotels, restaurants, live entertainment and spas.

A variety of venues The Gila River Indian Community operates two casinos near Chandler—Lone Butte Casino and Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino—and one casino in the West Valley near Laveen, Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino.

The Salt River-Pima-Maricopa Indian Community operates Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort near Scottsdale.

The Fort McDowell-Yavapai Nation operates the Fort McDowell Casino near Fountain Hills. The Ak-Chin Indian Community operates Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel & Casino near the town of Maricopa. And near Glendale, the Thono O’odham Nation operates the Desert Diamond West Valley Casino.

DINING

Valley dining, both bold and delicious CAREY SWEET SPECIAL FOR

THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

WHAT AN EXCITING YEAR IT’S BEEN FOR THE VALLEY’S INCREASINGLY GLOBAL DINING SCENE. We’ll always be a destination known for our outstanding Mexican and Italian food, but these days, hungry folks can dive into new regional delights like San Diego-fresh seafood, internationally-inspired tacos, and – what’s not to love about this – modern Jewish deli fare.

Whichever the cuisine, today’s chefs celebrate bright, clean, bold flavors, and insist on premium ingredients arranged in often unexpected ways. Here are some new gems I’m savoring: CHULA SEAFOOD It’s tough to get fish fresher than this in Arizona, since shop owners and father-son team Jim and Jon Heflin catch the premium stuff personally, from their own custom designed 68 Hoquiam harpoon boat in San Diego.

Chef Juan Zamora lets the seafood shine, in simple but riveting recipes featuring lots of local ingredients.

A smoked trout dip BLT is layered with McClendon's Select Early Girl tomatoes on a Noble Bread roll with bacon jam Dijonnaise and Minus 8 ice wine vinegar red cabbage slaw, while my favorite niçoise salad is elevated by silky smoked tuna belly alongside the hard boiled egg, hericot verts, cherry tomatoes, baby greens, marinated Castelvetrano olives, confit potato, toasted almonds and Wonder Mustard-fish sauce vinaigrette.

Details: 8015 E. Roosevelt Road, Scottsdale. 480-6215121, chulaseafood.com.

CRUJIENTE Chef Rich Hinojosa and Jason Morris take my beloved tacos to a whole new level, in contemporary style with inventive recipes and brilliant flavor. Tortillas are made in house with organic, non-GMO, heirloom blue corn, then stuffed with goodies like Hawaiian ahi poke; Korean pork belly and kimchee; Thai coconut green curry shrimp; Japanese tempura avocado; or Texas Wagyu cap steak with fiery horseradish. I round out my meal with

CAREY SWEET writes about food, wine and dining, and is a frequent contributor to Republic Media. To read more about the Valley’s dining landscape, check out azcentral.com.

ARIZONA REPUBLIC | 2018-2019 WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE

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SHOPPING

Retail is booming in the Valley Michelle Jacoby SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

If you’re anything like me (and let’s face it, most shopping-obsessed Americans), the lure of a few mouse clicks and a visit from your friendly, neighborhood UPS man is almost too hard to resist.

But there’s something almost romantic about the time-honored tradition of strolling leisurely through the mall, darting in and out of your favorite shops and boutiques, and coming home laden with pretty bags and packages filled with treasured finds.

Thankfully, that tradition is alive and well throughout the Valley. From the East Valley to the West, from Scottsdale to central Phoenix, a bounty of retail centers and specialty stores is making the greater Phoenix area a favorite destination for even the most seasoned shopper.

In the East Valley, Chandler Fashion Center, located off the Loop 101 Freeway and Chandler Boulevard, is one of the largest premier

shopping destinations in the Southwest. It has an upscale collection of more than 180 stores including Ann Taylor, Michael Kors, Coach, Banana Republic, and lululemon athletica, anchored by Dillard’s, Macy’s, and Nordstrom.

In Mesa, the city’s largest retail center is Mesa Riverview, located off the Loop 202 North Freeway. It offers more than 40 brandname retailers, including anchor store Bass Pro Shops, one of the largest outdoor retailers in the country. And in Glendale, Arrowhead Towne Center has a collection of recognized stores and shops, from H&M to the Apple Store.

It’s plain to see retail options are plentiful throughout the Valley. But when it comes to luxury retailers and exclusive brands, Scottsdale Fashion Square is the place to be.

And with major changes in the works for the iconic retail center, upscale shoppers will have even more to choose from, including highlyanticipated openings of Morphe, UNTUCKit, Hyde Park Jewelers and Trina Turk.

“A major renovation is underway at Scottsdale Fashion Square, and it will redefine the luxury shopping and dining experience,” says Kim Choukalas, vice president of leasing

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SHOPPING with Macerich, Scottsdale Fashion Square’s management company. “With a focus on a high-end experience, a dedicated luxury wing is being planned, filled with the top names in high fashion—including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent—as well as premiere dining, elegant fixtures and finishes, and enhanced amenities like dedicated valet service at the wing’s new grand entrance.”

Also known for its high-end shopping experience is the Biltmore Fashion Park in Phoenix. Situated on the corner of 24th Street and Camelback Road, the open-air shopping center also has some changes in the works, including an expanded Williams-Sonoma store and a Life Time Fitness, for those shoppers who’d like to squeeze in a little gym time during their shopping spree.

“Shopping centers continue to be magnets for people, for ideas, for great experiences, and for great brands,” says Choukalas. “They are community gathering places that offer a rich variety of in-person experiences: from great food and entertainment to exceptional amenities and lots of different kinds of retail.”

MICHELLE JACOBY writes about people, places and things all over Arizona, and is a frequent contributor to Republic Media.

To read more about the Valley’s retail landscape, check out azcentral.com.

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SPORTS

Excitement and optimism reign over Valley sports scene Jack Magruder SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

CHANGE IS IN THE VALLEY AIR. for the Valley’s

The majors sports scene in Phoenix has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last several months. New blood abounds.

The Valley continues to seek its first — and only — national championship since the Arizona Diamondbacks won the 2001 World Series, but with change comes renewed optimism. Not to mention sparkling resumes.

The Arizona Cardinals, the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona State football Sun Devils have turned to new leaders, all aspiring to bring their teams to the level of success the Diamondbacks found with Randy Johnson and Luis Gonzalez in 2001.

Steve Wilks arrived from perennial playoff contender Carolina to take over the NFL Cardinals, respected NBA and international coach Igor Kokoskov was named to implement the final phase of the Suns’ rebuilding process, and the NHL Coyotes reorganized their front office around new president/CEO Ahron Cohen.

The change that made the biggest splash, however, came at Arizona State, where former NFL All-Pro cornerback and ESPN commentator Herm Edwards was chosen as the man most likely to return the Sun Devils to national prominence as the school looks forward following an extensive facilities renovation project.

Edwards hit the right notes at his introductory press conference, quoting ASU legend Pat Tillman.

“When he talked about passion, he said it ignites your soul,” Edwards said.

“Football ignites my soul.”

That is not the only ignition point around here.

The Suns gained similar national exposure when they selected University of Arizona

freshman center Deandre Ayton with the first pick in the 2018 NBA draft, the first time in franchise history they have had a first-round pick after losing a coin flip for the right to pick Kareem Abdul-Jabbar decades ago. Ayton, 7-foot1, has the athleticism and the shooting touch to make a cannonball-like splash.

“A phenomenal physical talent,” Suns general manager Ryan McDonough said.

Kokoskov echoed that sentiment after Ayton’s appearance in the Las Vegas summer league.

“That's a talent,” he said. “That's why we have him, that's why we love him."

Days after Ayton was drafted, McDonough signed star guard Devin Booker to a five-year, $158 million contract extension that will begin in the 2019-20 season.

Like LeBron James or Kevin Durrant? Booker is the third-youngest player in NBA history to reach 4,000 points, behind only those two. He had 70 points at Boston two seasons ago, becoming the youngest player in league history to have a game of 60 points or more.

The Cardinals also have turned to youth. They chose UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen in the first round of the NFL draft, adding a player who is considered a potential franchise-maker to follow in the footsteps of leaders Kurt Warner and Carson Palmer.

Edwards is not the only big name at ASU. Bobby Hurley, a former two-time NCAA champion at Duke, took the Sun Devil basketball team to national prominence with his fast-paced approach a year ago. The future appears more than bright.

One more thing. Do not forget to circle your calendars. The Valley will host its fourth Super Bowl in 2023. Good seats are still available.

JACK MAGRUDER is a national sports writer and contributor to Republic Media. To read more about sports in Arizona, subscribe by going to fullaccess.azcentral.com or calling 602-444-1000 within the Phoenix area or 800-332-7633 outside the Phoenix area.

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GOLF

PGA’s biggest party is world-class fun in the Valley

Jack Magruder SPECIAL FOR THE REPUBLIC AZCENTRAL.COM

You never know what is going to happen at the PGA’s Waste Management Open, the Valley’s premier pro golf tournament.

But you know it will be fun.

And a few decibels over regulation.

The tournament, to be held Jan. 31-Feb. 3 at the TPC Scottsdale, has become known as the “greatest show on grass,” and it is considered the most user-friendly — read rambunctious — event on the PGA Tour.

Its reputation and its gallery seem to grow every year, and popular Bird’s Nest 19th hole lends to the festive atmosphere.

The event drew over 700,000 fans last year and generated an economic impact of about $389 million for the local economy, tournament chair Chance Cozby said.

The field usually includes top-tier players such as Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler, Brooks Koepka, Phil Michelson and Jon Rahm, and the celebrity pro-am often features Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Phelps usually compete.

If there a star, however, it is the 16th hole.

“The 16th hole and the atmosphere there is a bucket list item for many people, not only from around the country

but also from around the world,” Cozby said.

“It’s an iconic hole on the PGA Tour and in the world of golf. What that hole has done for us as a tournament what that hole has become drives people to our venue.”

The exuberance took a leap forward in 1997, when then 21-year old Tiger Woods two-hopped a hole-in-one on the par-3 16th hole in the third round. You could hear the roar from here.

“It rattled the clubhouse windows 600, 700 yards away,” Omar Uresti, who was paired with Woods that day, later said.

“Only Tiger.”

JACK MAGRUDER is a national sports writer and contributor to Republic Media. To read more about golf in Arizona, subscribe by going to fullaccess.azcentral.com or calling 602-444-1000 within the Phoenix area or 800-332-7633 outside the Phoenix area.

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Welcome back, winter visitors.

Dang, it’s been hot If we look a little haggard, it’s because it was a rough summer.

There was the record heat, of course. We dealt with it the best we could, using triedand-true tactics like two-finger driving with sizzling steering wheels and emerging only at night like vampires unless forced to venture into the sunlight.

Politically, it’s been heated, too.

As if national politics weren’t enough to get us hot under the collar, Arizona legislative races were shaping up this summer to be the most contested in a decade, according to The Arizona Republic’s political reporting.

Teachers wearing red shirts walked out of their classrooms en masse this spring to protest inadequate funding. (It was so hot that day -- in April, mind you -- that some passed out at the state Capitol.)

This #redfored movement has bolstered interest in the November election. The balance of

power at the state Capitol is on the line, you see.

The housing market is hot too.

New houses are going up in the Phoenix area at the fastest pace in 10 years, our real-estate reporter Catherine Reagor reports. Prices are climbing faster than they have in five years.

Yet our home prices still seem like bargains to transplants from California, Colorado and Washington.

We hope the housing market stays hot and that politics chills a bit.

But at a time when it seems like we don't agree on much, we battled Arizona’s ridiculous temperatures together. We slathered on sunscreen, switched from hot coffee to iced and pulled our umbrellas from the hallway closet – not for rain but to create our own personal circles of shade.

Now we’re watching for your return. Because once you start showing up, we know things will cool down a bit. The weather, anyway.

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WINTER VISITOR’S GUIDE 2018-2019 | ARIZONA REPUBLIC

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