Life + Culture

Marathon Swimmer Calls Ahwatukee Home

Claire Russell finds joy and fulfillment swimming in open water Article by Alison Stanton | Photography by Stephanie Slezak and provided by Claire Russell Claire Russell learned to swim when she was a little girl growing up in England.   At the time, Russell didn’t realize that what started as a casual activity would eventually lead to her becoming a marathon swimmer, conquering some of the coldest and most challenging bodies of water on Earth.   Russell was inspired to try open water...

May 2024

Travel

Girls Getaways

Fabulous ways to spend the night, weekend, or even longer spoiling mom Article by Alison Bailin Batz | Photography by Provided There is a gift that all mothers want from their adult daughters more than anything else this Mother’s Day; and it is neither flowers nor cards.   They want uninterrupted time together!   Why not make this year’s celebration extra special by surprising mom with a girls’ getaway, be it overnight, for the weekend, or even longer?   For a Day: Cottonwood ...

April 2024

Style + Beauty

It's in the Bag

Ever wonder what an editor carries in her handbag? Article by Beth Del Ville | Photography by Qiana Kelsch I love a good handbag, be it trendy, flashy, sophisticated, timeless or anything in between. But moreover, I’m intrigued by what women carry in their bags; it’s like a little glimpse into the secret lives of ladies. And in honor of our annual Women’s issue, I thought I’d share one of my favorite bags, and what lies inside.   Belted bags are on-trend for 2024, and I adore this Tory...

April 2024

Life + Culture

The Empowerment Revolution

Dr. Chante Pantila is on a mission to nurture community, encourage healing and celebrate the power of femininity Article by Beth Del Ville | Photography by Qiana Kelsch Dr. Chante Pantila, a devoted therapist with a deep passion for empowering women, embodies the essence of womanhood in both her personal and professional life.   “I love being a woman,” Dr. Chante shares with genuine enthusiasm. “My mom is also very feminine, and I definitely get it from her. She taught me to own being a...

April 2024

Food + Beverage

Spectacular Spread

Transform your Mother's Day celebration into an unforgettable experience with a stunning charcuterie board Article and Photography by Mindy Wester As Mother's Day approaches, it's time to go beyond traditional gifts and express your love with a feast for the senses. Create a captivating and vibrant charcuterie board that brings together a symphony of sweet and savory delights, edible rosettes and an array of delectable treats that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate. At the...

April 2024

Home + Design

Gila Floor Coverings

Investing in new flooring transforms a house into a home Article by Alison Stanton | Photography by Provided Beautiful stone flooring made from materials including travertine, marble or granite. Eye-catching tile floors, in a wide range of colors. Durable hardwood, offering a timeless and elegant look. These are just a few of the types of flooring that are available at Gila Floor Coverings, a family-owned business in the East Valley. No matter what type of materials people select, sales...

March 2024

Travel

The ROI of Adventure

Carol Rice, Founder and Owner of Ahwatukee Travel, shares her passions and insights about travel Article by Alison Stanton | Photography by Guillaume Van Wyk As the founder and owner of Ahwatukee Travel, a full-service travel agency that specializes in luxury vacations, cruises, destination wedding planning and honeymoons, Carol Rice truly understands how beneficial it is to devote time and money to traveling.   “Travel is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make in your life,”...

March 2024

Life + Culture

Nuturing Family

Six ways to invest time in your family, foster strong connections and create lasting memories Article by Beth Del Ville Plan a Weekly Board Game Night Unplug from screens and gather the family for a board game night. Board games provide entertainment and promote healthy competition, communication and teamwork. Choose a variety of games that cater to different ages and interests within the family. Whether it's the strategic twists of chess or the laughter-inducing rounds of Pictionary, board...

March 2024

Fitness

The Wealth of Wellbeing

Self-investment in self-care Article by Beth Del Ville It’s always a good time to invest in you time.   Tony Ziolko, licensed therapist, clinical supervisor, cofounder and co-owner of Stories Counseling, has spent his career helping people help themselves. He says investing in self-care is crucial to our wellbeing.   “It all comes down to this idea of nourishment,” Ziolko says. “We invest in self-care to keep ourselves from becoming emotionally malnourished. If we neglect our emotional...

March 2024

Style + Beauty

Signature Style

Pieces to purchase that last a lifetime Article by Beth Del Ville Fast fashion can be fun, but spending a little more for foundational pieces that last is what truly creates a wardrobe that transcends trends. Think crisp white blouses with a twist, classically tailored handbags and exquisite jewelry that you never take off. These enduring items exude sophistication and promise lasting quality. Certain garments and accessories, well-crafted and well cared-for, can transform from cherished...

March 2024