Anthem, AZ April 2024

INVESTMENT

REAL ESTATE JOURNEY THROUGH THE WILLO DISTRICT'S RICH PAST WITH OUR HOME TOUR.

ARTS + CULTURE CANVAS OF WEALTH: INVESTING BEYOND BORDERS IN ART AND LIFE

Exploring Investment Beyond Finances

As we journey through April, I extend an invitation to explore the diverse realm of investment, extending well beyond financial portfolios. Within the pages of our lifestyle magazine, we navigate the art of nurturing personal growth, fostering community bonds, cherishing family ties, and wisely managing our hard-earned money.

Investing in oneself stands as a lifelong endeavor, with the belief that the most significant investment is in personal growth. Envision your mind as a fertile garden awaiting bloom—cultivate it with knowledge, curiosity, and self-care. Whether mastering a musical instrument, honing culinary skills, or simply taking a moment to breathe, such investments yield dividends in personal fulfillment and resilience.

Communities serve as the bedrock of our lives, shaping experiences, providing support, and offering collaborative opportunities. Consider volunteering, attending local events, or joining passion-driven clubs. Investing time and energy in community building creates a ripple effect—a tapestry of interconnected lives enriching us all.

Family, the ultimate investment, acts as the compass guiding us through life's twists and turns. Cherish these bonds, invest in meaningful conversations, shared laughter, and heartfelt traditions. Moments such as Sunday brunches, game nights, or heartfelt letters compound over time, creating a legacy of love and connection.

While financial investments are crucial, broadening our perspective is equally important. Diversify portfolios, save diligently, and seek wise counsel, but also invest in experiences—a memorable trip, a soul-stirring concert, or that cozy coffee shop where ideas flow freely. Wealth transcends numbers; it's about the richness of life.

As we flip through the pages of this magazine, let's celebrate the myriad ways we invest. Let's learn, grow, and thrive together, acknowledging that life's greatest returns come from investments in ourselves, our communities, our families, and our hearts.

Thank you for being part of our vibrant community. Here's to a future filled with abundant dividends!

Warm regards,

P.S. Remember, investing in a good cup of coffee is never a bad idea—it fuels both creativity and caffeine addiction!

MEL FONSECA, PUBLISHER @ANTHEMCITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

1: Valetines event at The Salt and Spa.

2: Anthem Chamber members at the After-Hours event.

3: Purse-Impressions Charity Boutique pop-up event.

business monthly

The Salt Spa AZ

Revitalize your well-being at The Salt Spa AZ, located at 41810 N Venture Dr C122, Phoenix, AZ 85086. Our sanctuary offers a rejuvenating escape, providing holistic solutions for overall health. Experience the benefits of salt therapy and various massage modalities, from deep tissue to prenatal, expertly designed to enhance your relaxation and well-being. Visit us and embark on a journey towards a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Diamond Dance Works

Embark on a dance journey with Diamond Dance Works, fostering exceptional training in a positive ambiance. Their mission is to teach, enthuse, and motivate every student to their fullest potential, both in and out of the classroom. Experience the joy of dance; visit their website today to explore diverse classes and enroll in a program that transcends the dance floor, shaping a vibrant future for aspiring dancers.

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Cookies N Clean

Indulge your furry friends at Cookies and Clean Dog Grooming, situated at 34640 N Valley Parkway, Suite 125, Phoenix, AZ 85086. Their dedicated team offers top-notch grooming services in a pet-friendly environment. Pamper your pets with care and style. Visit cookiesnclean.com to schedule an appointment and treat your fourlegged companions to the grooming experience they deserve. Your pets will thank you!

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Merrill Gardens at Anthem

Discover the ideal senior living at Merrill Gardens at Anthem, located at 2800 W Rose Canyon Circle, Anthem, AZ 85086. Tailored to individual needs, their community provides quality independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Experience the freedom to be yourself in a family-owned environment that values connection above all. Explore more at www.merrillgardens.com and embrace a fulfilling lifestyle at Merrill Gardens.

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Invest in a Well-being Journey

ARTICLE BY FIONA SANDERS

Southwest Colorado’s Ultimate Retreat

Embark on a transformative journey at the Colorado Fitness, Wellness, and Adventure Retreat in Durango from July 14-20, 2024. Immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of Southwest Colorado, where alpine guided hikes, rejuvenating yoga sessions, and natural hot springs await. Indulge in gourmet meals, unwind in classy accommodations, and connect around campfires under star-filled skies. With a focus on self-discovery, limited to just 9 guests, this exclusive retreat promises a harmonious blend of adventure and deep relaxation.  Rediscover your inner balance in the heart of the mountains. Invest in your well-being amidst the pristine mountains of Southwest Colorado. This all-inclusive retreat invites you to explore the dynamic interplay between effort and surrender, adventure, and deep relaxation. Engage in alpine guided hikes, rejuvenating yoga, and the soothing Durango Hot Springs. Challenge yourself with core classes, embark on exciting adventures at Purgatory Mountain Resort, and nourish your body with gourmet meals. Your private mountain chateau awaits! Secure your spot at www.erikalynnroberts.com today.

A BRUSHSTROKE OF INVESTMENT

Investing in Art and Culture

ARTICLE BY FIONA SANDERS

From January to March the Valley transforms into a vibrant canvas where the brushstrokes of creativity and investment intertwine seamlessly. Two prominent art shows, the Celebration of Fine Art and the Arizona Fine Art EXPO, stand as beacons of artistic excellence, offering not just a visual spectacle but a unique investment opportunity that transcends traditional financial portfolios.

Bryce Pettit

Susan Q Byrd

“The power that any piece of art has to connect with another is derived from its authenticity.”

For over three decades, the Celebration of Fine Art has been a testament to the enduring connection between artists and art enthusiasts. With 40,000 square feet of working studios and masterpieces from 100 renowned and emerging artists, the show is a testament to the evolution of artistic expression. It's not merely a static exhibition; it's a dynamic journey where art evolves over a 10-week period, allowing patrons to witness the living, breathing process of creation.

The Arizona Fine Art EXPO, marking its 20th annual iteration, is another jewel in our cultural crown. Born out of passion and family collaboration in 2005, the event seamlessly blends the essence of a juried fine art festival, the allure of a gallery, and the inner workings of an artist's studio. Judi, Roger, Judy, and Dennis have woven an intricate tapestry of artistic experiences, creating an event that not only celebrates fine art but also educates the public and our community's children.

Both events offer a carefully curated selection of artwork, providing a diverse and enriching experience for collectors and first-time buyers alike. The Celebration of Fine Art invites patrons to return throughout its 10-week duration, showcasing new works as artists continuously create within their studios. On the other hand, the Arizona Fine Art EXPO combines the elements of a juried fine art festival, gallery, and studio, providing a unique space for art appreciation and education.

The commitment to nurturing the artists' community is evident in both shows. The Celebration of Fine Art, under the stewardship of Susan Morrow Potje and Jake, ensures a spectrum of fine art and craft is represented, fostering an environment where authenticity thrives. Bryce Pettit, a sculptor from Durango, Colorado, epitomizes this authenticity, sharing, "The power that any piece of art has to connect with another is derived from its authenticity. CONTINUED >

Through my work, I will tell you my story, and you can find your own."

The Arizona Fine Art EXPO, led by Judi, Roger, Judy, Dennis, and now featuring the extraordinary Susan Q Byrd, is dedicated to enhancing art appreciation and education. Susan, a National Geographic Magazine published and award-winning fine art photographer, takes patrons on a photographic odyssey, capturing the spirit and beauty of the American West and horses in action. Her limited editions, innovative techniques, and extensive accolades add a layer of depth to the expo, making it not just an art event but a photographic journey.

Investing in these art shows goes beyond financial transactions; it is an investment in cultural enrichment, creative expression, and the sustenance of artistic legacies. The Celebration of Fine Art and the Arizona Fine Art EXPO beckon investors to partake in a cultural journey, supporting not only the artists but also the essence of artistic exploration. As the "big white tents" and the Arizona Fine Art EXPO pavilions unfurl this April, they unveil not just art but an investment in the timeless legacy of creativity that transcends generations.

If you were unable to attend this year, be sure to check out the artists' websites and mark your calendars for next year's art extravaganza!

Top: Bryce Pettit

Bottom:Susan Q Byrd

ARTICLE BY FIONA SANDERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY HATHAWAY

Timeless Beauty Investing in Phoenix’s

On Sunday, February 18th, 2024, history came alive as enthusiasts and curious minds descended upon the historic Willo neighborhood in Downtown Phoenix. The 35th Annual Historic Willo Home Tour was a testament to the preservation of a bygone era, where the investment in real estate transcended mere property values—it safeguarded the rich tapestry of Phoenix's past.

Nestled between Thomas and McDowell Roads, stretching from 1st to 7th Avenues, Willo emerged in the 1920s as one of the first historic suburbs on the outskirts of Phoenix. What was once undeveloped agricultural land has now transformed into one of Phoenix's oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. As the sun dipped below the palm-lined streets, visitors embarked on a journey through time, guided by the warmth and hospitality of the tight-knit Willo community.

The Willo Home Tour, a hallmark of this vibrant neighborhood, celebrated its 35th year with 14 unique homes open for exploration. Each residence showcased a distinct architectural style, ranging from Tudors and Bungalows to Spanish Colonials and Ranch styles. This journey through the past wasn't just a stroll through homes; it was an investment in the preservation of history.

Organized by the Willo Neighborhood Association, this annual event attracted visitors from across the nation, all eager to witness the charm and preservation efforts of Willo. The event served not only as a cultural spectacle but also as a fundraiser supporting the Willo Conservation Plan—a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its heritage.

The Street Fair accompanying the Home Tour was a vibrant celebration of local craftsmanship and artistry. Over 100 vendors offered handcrafted goods, jewelry, antiques, and local artwork, creating a bustling atmosphere reminiscent of a historic marketplace. The classic car show added a touch of nostalgia, harking back to an era when automobiles were works of art themselves.

Live entertainment reverberated through the streets, with the Lee Perreira Trio and DJ Orbit Corbett captivating audiences on the main stage. Music echoed from each home, creating a harmonious backdrop as guests traversed the historic streets. Trolleys efficiently circulated, ensuring that every corner of Willo was accessible, making the exploration of the historic homes a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Willo's history unfolded like a well-preserved manuscript during the tour. From the agricultural roots in the late 19th century to the flourishing period of construction in the 1920s, the neighborhood mirrored the growth and prosperity of Phoenix. The Period Revival movement in the 1930s brought forth a variety of architectural styles, but the Great Depression momentarily stalled the construction fervor.

The mid to late 1930s saw the resurgence of development, fueled by the establishment of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). French Provincial and Monterey styles emerged, laying the foundation for the Ranch Style houses that characterize the northern section of Willo today. However, the 1940s marked the end of prolific subdivision development in the area.

“The Willo neighborhood stands not only as a testament to architectural diversity but as a living, breathing entity where the past intertwines with the present.”

The 1980s presented a pivotal moment for Willo as residents successfully secured its status as a special conservation district. The Willo Conservation Plan was born, ensuring that this slice of Phoenix's history remains untouched by the encroachment of commercial development. It was an investment in time, culture, and identity—a promise to future generations that the beauty of Willo would endure.

As the sun set on the 35th Annual Historic Willo Home Tour, visitors left not just with memories but with a sense of having invested in the preservation of Phoenix's vibrant history. The Willo neighborhood stands not only as a testament to architectural diversity but as a living, breathing entity where the past intertwines with the present. This year's tour wasn't just a stroll through homes; it was an investment in the timeless beauty that defines Willo, ensuring that its history echoes through the ages.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Gua Sha Facial Massage

Unlocking Radiance

Discover the rejuvenating benefits of Gua Sha, an ancient Chinese practice gaining popularity for its ability to enhance skin health and induce relaxation. This DIY guide simplifies the art of Gua Sha, providing a step-by-step approach to unlock a radiant and revitalized complexion.

ARTICLE BY FIONA SANDERS

Materials Needed:

1. Gua Sha tool (choose from jade, rose quartz, or stainless steel)

2. Facial oil or serum

3. Clean towel

Directions:

Step 1. Cleanse Your Face. Initiate the Gua Sha ritual with a clean face. Gently cleanse to remove impurities and prepare your skin for the massage. Pat dry with a soft towel to maintain a smooth canvas.

Step 2. Apply Facial Oil or Seru. Enhance the Gua Sha experience by applying a few drops of your preferred facial oil or serum. This ensures seamless gliding and provides additional nourishment to your skin.

Step 3. Choose the Right Gua Sha Tool. Select a Gua Sha tool that aligns with your preference and skin type. Options include jade and rose quartz for their cooling effects, or stainless steel for durability and easy maintenance.

Step 4-7. Facial Massage Techniques. Commence the massage by gently scraping along your neck and jawline, focusing on upward strokes to stimulate lymphatic drainage. Move to your cheeks, under-eye area, and forehead, applying gentle pressure to alleviate tension and promote circulation.

Step 8. Repeat on the Other Side. Maintain symmetry by repeating the sequence on the opposite side of your face. This ensures balanced stimulation for optimal results.

Step 9-10. Clean Your Gua Sha Tool and Enjoy Regularly. Post-massage, clean your Gua Sha tool with mild soap and water. Ensure it’s thoroughly dry before storing. Incorporate Gua Sha into your routine 2-3 times weekly for a spa-like experience that unveils a glowing, revitalized complexion.

Have fun and enjoy the radiance!

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Work in partnership with your body. Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and committed partner I will ever have

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine, don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always always be kind to yourself.

simple

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

roasted salmon with dill coconut cream

spicy thai coconut curry

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets

• 1 medium onion, sliced

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise, then sliced into crescents

• 1 red pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into slices

• 2 cups carrots, sliced

• 2 cups mushrooms, quartered

• 1 large boneless, skinless, pasture raised chicken breast, cut into cubes (omit to make vegan)

• 2 cans coconut cream

• 1 container curry paste or 3 tablespoons dried curry powder

• 2-4 cups bone broth, chicken stock, or vegetable stock

• 1 Tbsp. fresh ginger, minced

• 1 Tbsp. fresh garlic, minced

• 4 limes, 2 juiced and 2 quartered

• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 2-4 Tbsp. avocado, olive, or coconut oil

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Season the chicken with ¼ of the curry powder/paste, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Sear on medium heat in 1 tablespoon desired oil. Once browned on each side, remove from pan, and set aside.

2. Add 1 tablespoon oil and sauté the onion on medium heat until softened and translucent, roughly 2-3 minutes

3. Add the garlic, ginger, broccoli, zucchini, red pepper, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté on medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the chicken back in, along with the coconut cream, remaining curry powder/ paste, and broth.

5. Bring to boil, reduce to low heat, and simmer for 10-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

6. Remove from heat and finish with lime juice.

Serve with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or add extra broth to create a healing soup. Garnish with sliced avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges.

RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN

Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.

Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.

Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of

the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.

Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!

If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater

that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.

While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”,  you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!

Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.

Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.

And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.

Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later.

JW-Marriott.marriott.com

PuertoMayaCancun.com

CenotesZapote.com

ChambaoRestaurant.com

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 5TH

Carefree Farmers Market

Carefree Town Center 8 Sundial Cir., Carfree, AZ 85377 | 9:00 AM

Discover freshness at the Carefree Farmers Market! Explore a vibrant array of locally sourced produce, artisanal goods, and more. Engage with the community and support local vendors in the heart of Carefree. Elevate your shopping experience with quality products and a welcoming atmosphere.

APRIL 18TH

Carefree Art Night

Carefree Town Center 8 Sundial Cir., Carfree, AZ 85377 | 4:00 PM

Embrace creativity at Carefree Art Night every Third Thursday, 4-7 p.m. Explore Desert Gardens, local galleries, and enjoy live entertainment. Local musicians set the perfect ambiance for a 'Carefree' evening under the stars!

APRIL 19TH

The hills come alive this spring at Shine Theatre Company!

9050 East Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. | 6:00 PM

The hills come alive this spring at Shine Theatre Company! Join us for the Broadway classic as Maria and the Von Trapp family discover life, love, and resilience. Experience unforgettable tunes like Do Re Mi and Edelweiss. Don't miss this timeless production on Friday, April 19, from 6-9 pm MST, at Highlands Church, 9050 East Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

APRIL 20TH TO MAY 18TH, EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT

Spring Music Series

15279 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Dive into the rhythm at the Spring Music Series from April 20 to May 18, every Saturday night, 5:30-7:30 pm, in The Quad. Relax under the palm trees with local tunes. This series kicks off on 4/20 with Sandra Bassett.

APRIL 26TH

Scottsdale Jazz Festival Premiere Party

6902 East Greenway Parkway Scottsdale, AZ 85254 | 6:00 PM

Indulge in the magic of the Scottsdale Jazz Festival Premiere Party on April 26th, 6-10 pm MST, at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Featuring live jazz by Doc Jones & Friends and performances by renowned artists, including Carmela y Mas, Kiara Jayne, Max Tovstyi, Monique Hasbun, and J. White. Enjoy a New Orleans-inspired buffet dinner by chef Chris Masco, complimentary welcome cocktails, and a vibrant dance floor beneath the stars.

APRIL 29TH

Paula Cole

4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85050 | 7:00 PM

Experience the enchanting Paula Cole live! Tickets range from $44.50 to $59.50. Members contributing $500+ annually enjoy a 10% discount on concert tickets. Sponsored by Sanderson Lincoln, the 2024 Concert Series promises musical brilliance. Paula Cole, recognized for her gorgeous voice and boundary-pushing songwriting, achieved double-platinum success with “This Fire” in 1996. Don’t miss her captivating performance, known for passion and heart-touching lyrics.