Life + Culture

Prioritizing Mental Health

How the conversation around mental wellness is changing lives Article by Sherry York | Photography by Provided by Solari Crisis & Human Services As 2026 begins and many consider exercise routines or healthier eating, mental health deserves equal attention. Mental health has moved from a taboo subject to an essential wellness priority. Since the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline launched nationally in July 2022, crisis calls have climbed steadily each year, and not just from people in acute danger...

Health + Wellness

Future-Proof Your Skin

Tips for a radiant 2026 and beyond Article by Beth Del Ville | Photography by Stephanie Slezak The new year inspires a fresh start, especially for outdated routines. A successful skincare resolution requires more than a new jar of cream—we need a strategy that addresses our needs now and into the future. Zachary Novak, Salon Manager at Verbena the Salon, shares how to future-proof your skin for 2026 and beyond. According to Novak, the secret to long-term radiance is balance—protecting your...

Education

From Garden to Table

How to start a food farm in the Arizona desert Article by Alison Stanton | Photography by Stephanie Slezak As people who try to grow their own food in their Ahwatukee backyards often discover, the intense summer temperatures can make gardening incredibly challenging. But as Anessa York, a successful home gardener notes, with the right planning, preparation and products, it is very possible to grow your very own food farm – even when the Mercury climbs into the triple digits. “I’ve been very...

Life + Culture

Make Your Gifts Sparkle and Shine

Six inspired themes to elevate every gift this holiday season Article by Beth Del Ville | Photography by Stephanie Slezak The spirit of giving begins before the paper comes out, but the outside should be as thoughtful as the inside. Use these six creative themes to make every gift a treasure before it’s even unwrapped. Santa Baby!  Break tradition with a feminine twist on Saint Nick, featuring pink watercolor paper that is both charming and playful. Layer pink and red ribbons, and finish...

Style + Beauty

Dressed for the Season

Inspiration for your best looks this holiday - for any event! Article by Beth Del Ville | Photography by Stephanie Slezak | Model: Sara Hensing | Stylist: Ana Piña of The Posh Revival | Hair: Megan Asman of Verbena, The Salon Fire and Fringe Make a statement at your office holiday party with a bold and bright pop of color in festive red. Add a playful printed coat to keep the evening chill at bay. Paired with a sleek black clutch and the flirty movement of fringe heels, this outfit is...

Arts + Culture

Nostalgic Holiday Traditions

Usher In Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa By Connecting To History, The Generations Article by Julie Brown Patton Holiday traditions build strong bonds between families, a sense of belonging, communities and self-expression.  Vintage Ornaments Historically inspired or antique ornaments create a valued step back in time. Seek authentic vintage balls and bulbs at antique stores, or opt for retro looks with newer versions. Celebrate hidden-away childhood ornaments; pause and enjoy each memory...

Entertainment

ZooLights

The popular annual event at the Phoenix Zoo features new exciting and enchanting displays Article by Alison Stanton | Photography by Provided by the Phoenix Zoo Millions of twinkling lights. Beautifully lit trails filled with dazzling displays. Festive music to help put you in the holiday spirit. These are just a few of the many reasons why ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo is one of Arizona’s most beloved holiday traditions. As Linda Hardwick, Vice President of Marketing, Communications &...

Food + Beverage

Iconic Family Tradition

The Honey Baked Ham Company helps Ahwatukee families serve delicious and memorable holiday meals Article by Alison Stanton For many families in Ahwatukee, the holiday season wouldn’t be complete without at least one tasty specialty from The Honey Baked Ham Company.  Toni Gilbert opened The Honey Baked Ham Company franchise in Ahwatukee in 2008. “I knew we needed to be in the community, so Ahwatukee was the first place I went when I made the leap to franchisee,” she says.  Since then...

Entertainment

Get Ready for Game Night

Your ultimate guide to the perfect game gathering this holiday season Article by Beth Del Ville | Photography by Stephanie Slezak ’Tis the season for get-togethers with family and friends. Kids are home from school, friends and family are visiting for the holidays, and neighbors are especially, well, neighborly! In the whirlwind of holiday to-dos and festive planning, it's easy to get lost in the chaos. This year, take a moment to carve out some time for a little fun!   With screens and...

Food + Beverage

A Discovery of 'Wiches

Tour around the Valley for some of the most craveable sandwiches Article and Photography by Beth Del Ville Something wicked this way comes. Something wickedly delicious, that is!   The leaves are changing (somewhere) and the weather is cooling (ever so slightly), harbingering the arrival of spooky season. But this year, we’re not hunting for ghouls and goblins - no. This year, we’re hunting for monstrously good sandwiches all across the Valley.    The art of a sandwich lies in its...