North Peoria, AZ July 2025

Summer Adventures

July—Adventures!

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As we launch the July issue, focusing on Adventures near and far, I'm thrilled to embark on my own adventure here at North Peoria Lifestyle. I want to introduce myself as the magazine's new owner and publisher. As someone who shares your pride in our vibrant community, I am honored to uphold the magazine's tradition of celebrating the people, places, and stories that make Glendale and North Peoria a great place to call home. Our community magazine has always been more than just a publication. It reflects our shared spirit, achievements, and aspirations. As a publisher, I aim to build on this strong foundation by bringing you even more inspiring stories, helpful resources, and opportunities to connect.

You can look forward to:

• Spotlights on local heroes and businesses

• Updates on events, initiatives, and happenings

• Features on the unique history and culture of our area

• Opportunities for you to share your own stories and photos

I warmly invite your feedback, ideas, and involvement. Whether you have a story to share, an event to promote, or simply want to say hello, please don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make North Peoria Lifestyle an even greater source of community pride.

As we share some of our favorite adventures this month, I hope you’ll share some of your own favorite experiences with us! Tag us #northpeorialifestyle on Instagram with your favorite adventure photos.

Thank you for welcoming me to this role. I look forward to embarking on this journey with you.

KIMBERLY BAILEY,

July 2025

PUBLISHER

Kimberly Bailey | kimberly.bailey@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Susan Lanier-Graham

susan.lanier-graham@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Nichole Eckman | nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jen David | jen.david@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Nichole Eckman | nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Mimi Slawoff | mslawoff@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Angel Fuchs, Bailey Hall, Susan Lanier-Graham, Mimi Slawoff

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Janie Jones, Susan Lanier-Graham

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

business monthly

Glendale Nurse Launches Clinic to Help Residents

Melissa Sarhan, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with more than two decades of experience caring for adults and seniors, opened FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Center at 5957 W. Northern Avenue, Suite 117, in Glendale (FYZICAL.com/downtown-glendale-az).

Throughout her career, Sarhan saw a critical gap in the industry: a lack of proactive care to prevent falls. Opening her own FYZICAL location allowed her to break that cycle and focus on prevention.

Scan to read more

Hopsology Now Open in Glendale!

Arizona's first-ever brew store and taproom combo is now open in North Glendale. Hopsology Taproom & Wine Bar is open Tuesday through Sunday at 4925 W Bell Road, Suite C9.

Check out Wine Down Wednesday, featuring half-price bottles. Order a charcuterie plate and enjoy some chill time. They offer a selection of whites, reds, rosés, and bubbles.

Beer lovers will be thrilled at the All-Arizona brews on tap.  For special events and more, visit HopsologyTaproom.com

New Chip Facility Coming to Peoria

A groundbreaking semiconductor facility is coming to Peoria’s Vistancia community, positioning Arizona at the forefront of U.S. tech manufacturing. Tempebased Amkor (Amkor.com) will invest over $400 million in what will become the largest outsourced chip packaging plant in the nation. The 55-acre project is expected to create thousands of jobs and strengthen the domestic supply chain for electric vehicles (EVs), artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced computing. Construction is scheduled to start in September 2025. Scan to read more

Southwest Adventures

Explore Adventures Close to Home

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

Living in North Peoria means easy access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, storied towns, and unforgettable experiences the Southwest has to offer. While it’s tempting to hop on a plane to distant destinations for adventures, you don’t have to go far to feed your wanderlust.

Wild West Adventures Tombstone

Step back into the Wild West in Tombstone, home to the legendary O.K. Corral. Watch reenactments, explore dusty saloons, and stroll historic Allen Street. It’s kitschy in all the best ways and makes for a fun, family-friendly day trip packed with stories and swagger.

Saguaro National Park

Just outside Tucson, Saguaro National Park offers striking desert beauty and miles of hiking trails beneath towering saguaros. Explore both the east and west sections for sweeping views, wildlife sightings, and unbeatable sunset photo ops. It’s a perfect desert escape just a few hours from Peoria.

Within a day’s drive, you’ll find towering red rock formations, wildflower-filled alpine forests, and desert trails flanked by iconic saguaros. Whether you’re chasing cooler temps, craving historic charm, or seeking wide-open spaces under endless blue skies, the area’s diversity delivers adventure right at your doorstep.

Each destination offers a different side of the Southwest— rustic, wild, historic, or serene—and invites you to slow down and take it all in. It’s not just about what you see, but

how it makes you feel. You’ll find yourself listening more closely to the wind, marveling at a sky full of stars, or pausing just a little longer to appreciate a landscape that seems untouched by time.

From cactus-studded trails near Tucson to the haunting beauty of Monument Valley, these escapes remind us that we live in one of the most naturally gifted states in the country. So pack up the car, grab your camera, and hit the road—your next great adventure is just around the corner.

Monument Valley

Hollywood + History

Monument Valley’s towering sandstone buttes and red-hued mesas have starred in countless films, and seeing them in person is even more awe-inspiring. Straddling the Arizona-Utah border, this sacred Navajo land offers guided tours, stunning sunsets, and a soul-stirring sense of place.

Mountain Escape Greer

Nestled in the White Mountains, Greer is a hidden alpine gem with cool temperatures, pine forests, and the gentle flow of the Little Colorado River. Hike, fish, or simply unwind on a cabin porch. It’s a peaceful escape when you’re craving a break from the desert heat.

OUR FAVORITE WEEKEND GETAWAYS

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

UNCOVER THE BEST STAYCATIONS FOR A LOCAL SUMMER ESCAPE

When the desert heat sets in, there’s no need to head out of state to find your summer escape. Some of Arizona’s most luxurious and relaxing getaways are right here in the Valley.

Whether you’re seeking a serene spa day, championship golf, cool pools, or desert mountain views, these resort staycations offer all the perks of a vacation, without the travel hassle and at great summer discounts.

From historic charm to sleek modern design, each destination delivers a unique vibe and a perfect base for reconnecting, recharging, and soaking up summer in style. Pack your weekend bag—it’s time to stay, play, and unwind close to home.

THE WIGWAM

Tucked away in Phoenix’s West Valley, The Wigwam (WigwamArizona.com) blends historic elements with modern luxury across 440 acres. Enjoy three pools, waterslides, golf, tennis, and a world-class spa. This summer, the resort offers family games, splash parties with live music, and weekend visits from the Wildlife World Zoo—plus a curated local shopping experience with the new Wigwam Collection.

JW MARRIOTT SCOTTSDALE CAMELBACK INN RESORT & SPA

Set on 125 acres in scenic Paradise Valley, the iconic JW Marriott Camelback Inn ( JWCamelbackInn.com) blends Southwestern charm with luxurious touches. This summer, families can stargaze with the Celestial Retreat package, get creative with paint-by-numbers kits, or hit the resort’s new pickleball courts. It’s a relaxing desert escape with fun for all ages.

MOUNTAIN SHADOWS

JW MARRIOTT DESERT RIDGE

JW Marriott Desert Ridge (JWDesertRidge.com)  is a family favorite with its newly expanded AquaRidge WaterPark featuring a lazy river, three thrilling slides, and the adults-only Sky Island. This summer, don’t miss AquaNights— Friday evening fun with neon lights, extended pool hours, and glow-themed activities like glow putt golf and themed dance parties. It’s a splash-filled escape in the Sonoran Desert.

Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, Mountain Shadows (MountainShadows.com) is a chic desert retreat blending mid-century modern style with luxury. Lounge by the sparkling infinity-edge pool, enjoy golf with stunning views, or savor seasonal cuisine at Hearth ‘61. With art, architecture, and relaxation at its core, it’s the perfect upscale staycation just minutes from home.

A Verde Valley Wine Weekend

SAVORING A NORTHERN ARIZONA GETAWAY AT DA RANCH

Nestled in the heart of Arizona's Verde Valley, DA Ranch (DARanch. com) is more than a winery—it’s a story of family, land, and legacy dating back more than a century. This family-owned estate has blossomed into one of Arizona’s most beloved boutique vineyards. Surrounded by majestic cottonwoods and framed by wideopen skies, DA Ranch invites visitors to unwind and savor life, one sip at a time.

A SERENE SETTING

The setting at DA Ranch is enchanting. A serene pond anchors the property, attracting everything from graceful herons to curious deer. Hawks glide overhead, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the ranch’s resident donkey taking a stroll among the goats.

Greeting guests with a wagging tail, Kevin—the ranch’s vineyard dog—adds a dose of personality and charm that sets the tone for a relaxed, welcoming experience.

Chances are, everyone will want to take a turn on the swings— one for the little kids and one for the young-at-heart. And yes, DA Ranch welcomes your entire family, with plenty to keep the kids busy while mom and dad taste wines.

WINES THAT TELL A STORY

The DA Ranch tasting room feels more like a cozy gathering space than a formal wine bar. Here, each pour reflects the ranch’s commitment to estate-grown quality. You can sit inside, out on the wide porch in a rocking chair, outside in one of the many welcoming spaces, or even sip as you stroll along the pond under the willow trees.

Three wine favorites include:

• The 2022 RANCH MAE ROSÉ is a standout—crisp, refreshing, and perfect for sipping by the pond on a warm summer afternoon.

• The 2022 RANCH CAPRA, a rich blend of Tannat and Petite Sirah, offers depth and elegance. The estate-grown grapes showcase that Arizona wines have a place at the table.

• For those who enjoy a bold red, the 2021 Reserve Twelve Dog delivers a harmonious mix of structure and soul. This is a Tempranillo, aged for 18 months in Hungarian and American oak barrels.

Book a guided vineyard tour to learn more about the ranch's history and Arizona wines.

CONTINUED >

WEEKEND VIBES AND LOCAL FLAVOR

DA Ranch comes alive on the weekends with live music on the lawn, rotating food trucks serving local bites, and a steady flow of wine and conversation. Throughout the year, the ranch also hosts seasonal festivals that celebrate Arizona’s winemaking culture. From intimate release parties to lively festivals, these events bring together local artisans, musicians, and the community for unforgettable experiences.

A COTTONWOOD GETAWAY YOU WON’T FORGET

Whether you’re planning a weekend with friends or a romantic escape, DA Ranch offers a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature, with great wine, and with yourself. It’s a place where rustic beauty meets refined taste, and where every visit leaves a lasting impression.

About the Author::

Susan Lanier-Graham is the Managing Editor of North Peoria Lifestyle. She is also a food, wine, and travel writer and publishes the award-winning digital publication, Wander With Wonder. Even though she has explored wine regions all over the world, Susan finds something charming and a little quirky about Arizona wineries. Enjoy your Arizona wine adventures!

SANTA BARBARA ESCAPE

Discover Santa Barbara's storied history and charms

ARTICLE BY MIMI SLAWOFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY VISIT SANTA BARBARA

On a sunny, breezy morning in early May, I was having coffee in downtown Santa Barbara with a friend who had moved to this Central California Coast city for college and never left. It’s understandable.

“The 1925 earthquake destroyed much of downtown Santa Barbara, which was rebuilt and reinvented as a Spanish village.”

With its Mediterranean climate, rich historical roots, distinctive architecture, stunning landscape, and burgeoning culinary scene, Santa Barbara is an upscale, desirable city.

We were discussing the city’s Earthquake Centennial and how the devastation in 1925 transformed Santa Barbara, now often described as The American Riviera.

SANTA BARBARA REINVENTED

On June 29, 1925, a 6.3 earthquake destroyed much of downtown Santa Barbara. The city was rebuilt and reinvented as a dreamy Spanish village, characterized by the distinctive Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style that remains its hallmark today, featuring red tile roofs, white stucco walls, arched doorways, and courtyards. The mountains serve as a dramatic backdrop to the exquisite architecture.

The earthquake was a pivotal moment in the city’s architectural history. It also provided an opportunity

for a few pioneering women, such as Julia Morgan (who designed Hearst Castle), to break barriers in the field of architecture. Their work on visionary designs helped define the city’s new look.

The region’s iconic landmarks, including Old Mission Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, were renovated. And new buildings, such as La Arcada Plaza (1926) and the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara (1927) were established.

Santa Barbara continues to evolve into an idyllic seaside city, offering numerous ways to enjoy a coastal getaway.

STROLL THROUGH THEMED GARDENS

Recently, I explored three of the city's many gardens, devoting most of my time to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, which will celebrate its centennial in 2026. It's unique in that it's the first garden in the United States to focus exclusively on native plants.

Nestled in the hillside, the 78-acre garden features meandering trails through a meadow, a redwood forest, a desert, an arroyo with ponds and streams, a wooded dell, manzanitas, and the backcountry, where playful structures made of natural materials invite exploration. I found a quiet spot by a whispering stream for my picnic lunch.

Within a 10-minute drive are two more gardens. The A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden in Mission Historical Park, best known as the Mission Rose Garden, sits across the street from Old Mission Santa Barbara. It has about 1,500 varieties of roses in flower beds, including the butter yellow rose, named after Julia Child, who spent her last years living in Santa Barbara.

The Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is a cozy, neighborhood park with walking paths, a butterfly garden, a meadow, and a koi pond with ducks and turtles. I noticed a few people sitting on benches and reading.

HISTORICAL HIGHLIGHTS

Founded in 1786, Old Mission Santa Barbara (Queen of the Missions) is California’s 10th mission. On a self- or guided tour, see the mission, historic cemetery, and mausoleum, a nine-room museum of historical artwork and artifacts, and gardens.

Another iconic landmark is the Santa Barbara Courthouse, adorned with a distinctive clock tower, red tile roof, arches, hand-painted murals, and a sunken garden.

To learn about the city’s history, visit the Santa Barbara Historical Museum, where the signature installation—The Story of Santa Barbara—traces the timeline from the Chumash to the mid-20th century.

A GROWING CULINARY AND ARTS SCENE

Buzzy restaurants can be found throughout the Santa Barbara South Coast, from Goleta to Summerland. The region boasts around 475 eateries, ranging from hole-in-the-wall taquerias and mochi donut shops in strip malls to Michelin-starred

“The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, which will celebrate its centennial in 2026, was the first garden in the U.S. to focus on native plants.”

oceanfront fine dining establishments. A few standouts include The Ellwood at Goleta Beach in Goleta, The Lion’s Tale at Montecito Inn, and Clark’s Oyster Bar in Montecito.

Around 2013, the development of the artistic Funk Zone neighborhood—formerly an industrial district now known for its street murals and art galleries—brought more restaurants, including The Lark, an upscale restaurant, as well as wineries and breweries.

Of course, there are many terrific wineries throughout Santa Barbara County, but many of these wines can also be enjoyed in town. Santa Barbara Winery in downtown was the first and only tasting room for many years. But now the Urban Wine Trail features about 36 tasting rooms in downtown and the Funk Zone.

ENJOY ENCHANTING ACCOMMODATIONS

From cozy inns to luxury hotels, Santa Barbara offers an array of accommodations.

One of my favorite spots is the Alice in Wonderland-themed Cheshire Cat Inn, steps from downtown. It features two Queen Ann Victorians, a Coach House, and Craftsman cottages.

For a luxury stay, consider Hotel Californian near the beach and the Funk Zone. A property highlight is the Turkish-inspired spa.

A DELIGHTFUL ESCAPE

With its pristine beaches, historical sites, culinary experiences, and art scene, Santa Barbara is an alluring city sure to charm you. Find out more online at SantaBarbaraCA.com .

Rugged and Refined

2025 LAND ROVER DEFENDER IS WHERE RUGGED ADVENTURE MEETS REFINED LUXURY

The 2025 Land Rover Defender 110 is a bold blend of off-road prowess and modern sophistication, redefining the midsize SUV experience. With multiple trims and customization options, it offers something for every driver, from urban commuters to off-road adventurers.

I had the chance to test drive a Sedona Red model for 10 days, and it was an unforgettable experience. The Defender’s boxy silhouette makes a strong impression, while its smooth, quiet ride and advanced features make everyday driving feel effortless. Inside, the minimalist design meets luxury with heated and cooled leather seats, a power-adjustable heated leather steering wheel, and generous legroom, even in the optional third row.

ARTICLE BY ANGEL FUCHS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAND ROVER

Technology shines with an 11-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, interactive driver display, and Meridian surround sound. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, blind spot assist, a 360-degree parking aid, and more.

Powering the Defender is a 3.0L MHEV gas engine with 395 horsepower, 406 lb-ft of torque, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The AWD setup includes Terrain Response, selectable drive modes, and hill descent control—ideal for any terrain.

The 2025 Defender 110 is both trail-ready and city-smart—rugged, refined, and ready for anything.

18 mpg city/20 mpg highway | MSRP: $83,800; model tested: $86,725

To test drive today, visit Land Rover Arrowhead (LandRoverArrowhead.com).

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.

ROSEMARY GRAPEFRUIT

PEAR FIZZ

This cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit, the sweetness of pear, and the distinct notes of rosemary, all brought together with a bubbly finish.

GARDEN HERB

&BERRY SANGRIA

This sangria emphasizes fresh garden herbs and the sweetness of seasonal berries.

LIME MINT

ROSE MOJIT

A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)

• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice

• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)

• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice

• 1 sprig of Rosemary

• Sparkling water

• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice

Instructions:

Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha)

• ½ cup brandy or rum

• ½ cup elderflower liqueur

• 1 cup sparkling water

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• ½ cup fresh raspberries

• ½ cup fresh blueberries

• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves

• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1 lime, thinly sliced

Instructions:

In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix.Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.

Ingredients:

• 10 fresh mint leaves

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)

• 2 ounces white rum

• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)

• Club soda or sparkling water

• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)

Instructions:

Muddle:

Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.

This magazine exists because Kimberly said ‘Yes.’

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Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?

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events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 3RD

July 3rd Fireworks Celebration

Pleasant Harbor at Lake Pleasant | 5:00 PM

Celebrate Independence Day early at Pleasant Harbor’s July 3rd Fireworks Celebration! Enjoy live music, food trucks, and free kid-friendly fun like bounce houses and inflatable waterslides—all along the scenic shores of Lake Pleasant. End the night with a stunning fireworks show at 9 p.m. Plan your visit at PleasantHarbor.com.

JULY 4TH

City of Peoria's All American Festival

Peoria Sports Complex | 6:00 PM

Celebrate the Fourth with an evening of soccer, live music, and fireworks at the Peoria All-American Festival! Catch a Women’s Premier League match, enjoy 90s hits from “Saved by the 90s,” and explore games, food, and fun for all ages. Admission and parking are free! Learn more at PeoriaAZ.com.

JULY 4TH

Arizona Road Racers Summer Series #3 Run

Rio Vista Park | 5:30 AM

Rise, run, and refuel this Fourth of July in Peoria. The Summer Series #3 invites early birds to lace up for a festive 4-mile loop at Rio Vista Park—just in time to beat the heat. After the race, unwind with a laid-back holiday BBQ featuring all the classics, from hot dogs to juicy watermelon. Register by July 4 at ArizonaRoadRacers.com.

JULY 9TH

Wine, Women, & Wealth

Postino Wine Cafe - Peoria | 5:00 PM

Sip, socialize, and get smart with your money at Wine, Women & Wealth—an evening that blends financial tips with meaningful connections (and yes, great wine). Whether you're a wine lover or just in it for the company, this feel-good gathering brings women together for conversation, education, and a little indulgence. RSVP at HLJGrowth.com.

JULY 11TH

The Sweet Delilah Swim Club

The McMillin Theater | 7:30 PM

Loyalty and laughter shine bright in The Sweet Delilah Swim Club, a charming comedy about five lifelong friends who gather each summer at a North Carolina beach house. Created by the writers of The Golden Girls, this play honors lasting friendships, life’s surprises, and the strength found in sticking together. Purchase your ticket at TheaterWorks.org

JULY 18TH & 19TH

Morgan Wallen "I'm the Problem" Tour 2025

State Farm Stadium | 5:30 PM

Country lovers, Morgan Wallen takes the stage at State Farm Stadium for back-to-back shows—July 18 with Miranda Lambert and July 19 alongside Brooks & Dunn. Rising star Ella Langley opens both nights. Experience the I’m the Problem Tour 2025 live. Find tickets and info at StateFarmStadium.com!

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