Fitness

Know Your Numbers

Make Men's Healthcare a Priority with Gameday Men's Health Article by Gretchen Pahia | Photography by Nichole Eckman Getting healthy in the New Year is a goal for many North Peoria residents. However, one area often overlooked and underserved is men’s health issues, including testosterone replacement, prostate cancer screening, and more. Research shows that men are more likely to miss appointments or never make them in the first place, ignoring symptoms that may impact their overall...

Travel

4 Western US Ski Resorts

Skiing is an incredible workout and these Western ski slopes offer fun and fitness Article by Mimi Slawoff Skiing is one of the best workouts! Luckily, Western ski resorts are defined by ideal snow conditions, a variety of terrain, and bluebird skies. It's no wonder skiers and snowboarders flock to Western resorts to swoosh through powder and on groomed trails in tranquil forests and eagerly swap stories at après-ski venues. Winter carnivals and concerts enhance the fun and are part of the...

Life + Culture

Yes, We Can Thrive After 55

Top Wellness Trends Redefining Healthy Senior Living Article by Jeff McQueen | Photography by Trilogy by Shea Homes Jeff McQueen is co-founder and president of Trilogy by Shea Homes.   At Trilogy ( SheaHomes.com/trilogy ), we have been designing communities and lifestyle experiences for 25 years. We now operate 55+ resort communities across the country. At each community, we focus on whole-life wellness for our homeowners. We recently announced the addition of our newest 414-home Trilogy...

Food + Beverage

Orange Chicken

This healthy, gluten-free option of the classic Chinese dish is ideal for kickstarting the New Year Article and Photography by Rebecca Taig Ingredients For the Chicken 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon Chinese five spice 1 Tablespoon arrowroot powder 2 Tablespoons sesame seed oil For the Orange Sauce 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon minced ginger 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1 cup (240...

Home Services

North Peoria Home Show

Local Northwest Valley Businesses Offer Solutions to Help You Maintain a Healthy Home and Lifestyle Article by Susan Lanier-Graham | Photography by Nichole Eckman The North Peoria Home Show ( NorthPeoriaHomeShow.com ) is a vibrant community event showcasing the best of Northwest Valley businesses and nonprofits. Founded by Julie LaCroix of North Peoria Lifestyle and Tyler Croft of Croft & Co Lending, the 2nd Annual North Peoria Home Show promotes homeownership, community, charity, and...

Food + Beverage

Pop the Cork!

4 Must-Have Wines for Your Holiday Celebrations Article by Dena Roché For kids, the holidays are about presents, sweets, and school break. But for adults, the season is a time of friends, family, and parties. As you plan your holiday festivities and gift-giving, nothing elevates a celebration like a great bottle of wine. Whether you’re hosting the soiree or looking for the perfect hostess gift, we have four wines that pair perfectly with your holiday celebrations. Palmer Champagne Rosé...

Travel

Explore European Christmas Markets

A Christmas market river cruise takes you through the heart of Europe to experience these festive and iconic markets Article and Photography by Susan Lanier-Graham Twinkling lights, Christmas carols, and the smell of roasting chestnuts and spiced wine are hallmark features of Europe’s festive Christmas markets. Called Christkindlesmarkts in Germany, these holiday markets are a centuries-old European tradition. I took a Viking River Cruise ( VikingRiverCruises.com ) from Budapest, Hungary, to...

Arts + Culture

Creative Peoria Kids

Peoria City Council Announces Annual Library Card Design and StoryWalk Contest Winners Article by Susan Lanier-Graham Peoria has some creative young people, and the City Council recently honored that by announcing the winners of two annual contests held in partnership with The Friends of the Peoria Public Library to promote literacy and showcase creativity in the arts. Library Card Design Contest The 19th Annual Library Card Design contest invites kids in two age categories (5-11 and...

Auto + Marine

Luxury Electric Sedan

Mercedes 2024 EQE 350 4MATIC Sedan Electrifies Your Drive Article by Susan Lanier-Graham I recently tested the 2024 Mercedes EQE 350 4MATIC sedan. It was the ideal blend of luxury, power, technology, and environmental-friendliness with classic Mercedes innovation.  Refined Design The EQE 350 feels spacious yet sporty and handles like a dream. The aerodynamic design features a smooth undercarriage and nominal front openings. The flush door handles offer a sleek design, and the aerodynamics...

Arts + Culture

Breathtaking Asian Luminous Art Installation

First-Ever Tianyu Lights Festival Comes to West Valley Article by Alison Bailin Batz | Photography by Tianyu Lights Festival The Tianyu Lights Festival ( TianyuCulture.us/phoenix ), an enchanting nighttime walk-through experience for all ages that brings nature and art together through awe-inspiring visual, cultural, and light effects, is coming to the Valley for the first time from October 25, 2024, to January 5, 2025. The festival will take place at Camelback Ranch every Wednesday to...