Travel

Hidden Gems of 30A and Destin

Discover unique spots in 30A and Destin, Florida, from delightful eateries to charming coffee shops and iconic beachside attractions. Article and Photography by Kylie Strawn-Badger If you haven't added 30A and Destin, Florida, to your bucket list yet, now's the time! And for those planning a trip, be sure to include these must-visit spots! Beyond the mesmerizing coastline and emerald waters, these locales offer a taste of the unique charm. Indulge your sweet tooth at Blue Mountain Beach...

June 2024

Food + Beverage

Where Arizona BBQ meets Family Traditions

Come explore the best BBQ places in town Article and Photography by Krista Carpenter-Beasley When the sun comes out and the temperature rises, Americans across the country gather around their grills and smokers for a classic barbecue feast. But "barbecue" is more than just a cooking method or a social gathering. It's a culinary tradition that has roots in indigenous communities of the Caribbean and has been influenced by African American culture, Mexican outdoor cooking, and the meat-making...

June 2024

Local Services

Date your Hometown

From Sunrise to Sunset Article by Gretchen Pahia & Kylie Strawn-Badger | Photography by Quianna Marie Photography @quiannamarie and Yasmine Carmen Photography Exploring your hometown can be just as exciting and romantic as traveling to a new destination. With a blend of local charm, hidden gems, and familiar favorites, you can create an unforgettable day date that spans from morning to night. Here’s a delightful itinerary to inspire your perfect day out together. Breakfast at Dog Haus : A...

June 2024

Food + Beverage

Spice Up Your Summer

The Ultimate Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita Recipe Article by Liquid Caterers | Photography by Carmela Joy & Denise Karis Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita INGREDIENTS:  - 1.5 oz of Tequila - 3-4 slices of Cucumber  - 1-2 slices of Jalapeño (depending on how spicy you like it) - 1/2 oz of Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice - 1/4 oz of Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice  - 1/4 oz of Agave  - Optional: Sparkling Water  - Garnish: Lime Wheel & Tajin Rim    INSTRUCTIONS:  1. Rim your glass with Tajin and set...

June 2024

Life + Culture

Cheeseburgers in Paradise

Meet S. Barrett Rinzler: The Man Behind the Magic of Famous 66 Article by Kristy Belley | Photography by Quianna Marie Photography @quiannamarie While the name S. Barrett Rinzler might be unfamiliar to you, his restaurants are among our favorites across the Valley. Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers and Bourbon & Bones are just a couple of the famous eateries from Square One Concepts that have made their way to Gilbert. This spring, our town was blessed to become home to their newest restaurant...

June 2024

Home + Design

Turning Your Home into Income Property

Sometimes life changes - things to consider when turning you home into a rental property with OnQ property management experts Article by Gretchen Pahia Looking to make a move to a new home but not sure if you want to sell your current home? We spoke with Chief Strategy Officer and Designated Broker Eric Dixon at On Q Property Management, for some dos and don’t’s then it comes to the home rental market.  Question: What is the demand for rental properties in the valley right now? The demand...

June 2024

Life + Culture

Flipping Success

MyKayla's Journey Beyond the Vault Article by Shelby Underwood | Photography by Yasmine Carmen Photography As she steps into her home gym, the young athletes pause their training, turning to recognize the Olympian. She's not just a champion but a real-life example of their biggest dreams coming true. "It's always fun to kind of re-live those memories. Walking in the gym and just being with the girls and watching these girls try to do the same thing that I did, leaving that legacy here."   ...

June 2024

Travel

Las Vegas Getaway

Valley residents are often looking for a great weekend (or longer) getaway and one of the best spots that is just a few hours’ drive away is none other than Viva Las Vegas! This hot spot is growing and becoming even more popular these days as a great getaway with tons of fun Choices for everyone. Where to StaySilverton Casino LodgeThis property underwent massive renovations, making it an inviting spot to enjoy a getaway. On the heels of its 25th anniversary, Silverton Casino Lodge...

June 2024

Auto + Marine

Fueling the Need for Speed

Local Car Shop Owner Turns Passion for Cars into Drag Racing Dream Article by Gretchen Pahia | Photography by Wes Hawkins & Christian Beseno Photography East valley resident Wes Hawkins and owner of Highline Car Care turned his passion for automotives not only into a successful career, but he is also fueling his need for speed.  Building a successful shop isn’t all that Hawkins is doing though when it comes to cars, as he has turned his enthusiasm for cars into a passion for racing. “I have...

May 2024

Food + Beverage

A Touchdown for Charity

Mark ‘Grill’n’ McMillian cooks up fun with philanthropy Article by Lynette Carrington | Photography by Yasmine Carmen Photography Some people may remember Mark McMillian as the eight-year NFL veteran who played for the Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Redskins, earning the nickname “Mighty Mouse” along the way. Other people may know McMillian from his job as commentator for NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders and his recent stint on “Next Level Chef.” But it’s a...

May 2024