Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Art and Travel

Tips for browsing, admiring and collecting art while you travel

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By Susan Morrow-Potje, owner of the Celebration of Fine Art event.

Bring Home a Memory or a Masterpiece

There is something about traveling that goes hand in hand with exploring and discovering art. Perhaps it is that there is more leisure time and families or couples are together creating memories. But whatever it is, travel and collecting art are a frequent combination. Purchasing a work of art that is hand made by a local or reflective of the area is a great way to take home a memory. These works can be large or small. On a recent trip to Whitefish, MT my husband and I discovered a gallery that had beautiful works of art, mostly landscapes and wildlife. There was one artist who had a series of mini 6” x 6” paintings that were lovely. One was of the iconic open-air red buses that take visitors to the top of the pass in Glacier National Park, which we had been in the day before. That little gem found its way home to Scottsdale and serves as a sweet reminder of that trip. Art collecting while traveling does not necessarily always reflect the local flare. Many times when you are taking the time to explore the art scene as you travel, you will come across beautiful masterpieces that will be the perfect addition to your collection. These works of art can become legacy pieces to pass down through your family along with the memories of how you found them.

Plan Ahead, but be Prepared to be Spontaneous

Prior to traveling to your destination, do some research on the art local art scene. Check resources such as the local tourism website to discover art galleries and art events that are happening when you will be there. You can also search art publications such as Fine Art Connoisseur, American Art Collector, Western Art & Architecture and others which will frequently highlight the art markets in different areas around of the country. You can search these publications online or save articles about places you plan to visit as you see them. Ask around when you get into town about where to find art events or artist studio tours. You’ll often find unexpected gems off the beaten path. As my husband and I have traveled across the country we have seen many artists painting on location from the craggy rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in Maine to the docks of Balboa Island in California. It is always inspiring to watch them at work. We’ve bought pieces right off the easel! This has helped us build a collection of wonderful art work and great memories. Of course, we find fabulous art right here in Scottsdale in the galleries and at the Celebration of Fine Art where all of the artists are working in their own studios under one big tent. We seen many collectors take home pieces that enrich their collection and build their friendships here. If you have the chance to buy directly from the artist, take a photo of you with them and your work to capture the memory!

Be Prepared to Ship Your Masterpiece

Make sure to budget either a little space in your carry on or a little money to pay for shipping. Given the travel carry-on restrictions these days, you will discover that many items you fall in love with will have to be shipped. In many cases when you ship items you will not be required to pay some or all of the sales tax. This varies from city to city, so check the local tax regulations. When you ship, always insure it for the full value of the art work and the cost of shipping. You will find that it is well worth the time and investment to make sure that your masterpiece makes it home in good condition.

Enjoy the Journey

As your art collection grows and takes on its own personality, you will cherish the memories of the moment that you discovered the piece of art that you knew had to go home with you! Take a few moments when you bring the art home to record how and where you found it and you will build a beautiful travel and art journal that you can reflect on when you want to enjoy some beautiful memories.



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Spring Training in Scottsdale: Options for Every Fan

Find the ballpark experience that matches your style Spring-Article

If you’re planning a Scottsdale spring training getaway, you know there are a lot of options when it comes to games and seating. Should you book lawn seats at Scottsdale Stadium or up the ante with a VIP experience at Salt River Fields? Here’s a little piece of advice: no matter what option you pick, you can’t go wrong. But because we know that sifting through all of the choices can be tough, we’ve created this quick guide to Spring Training in Scottsdale.

The Good Timer

If your ideal ballpark experience includes kicking back, soaking up the sun and indulging in some serious people watching, lawn seating is for you. At Scottsdale Stadium, the general admission lawn that stretches from right- to left-field is basically a party at the ballpark. There are food and drink stands nearby so you won’t have to wander far to refuel. Bring a blanket or towel and plenty of sunscreen, and plan to arrive early to snag a prime spot – lawn seating is first-come, first-served and fills up fast.

Not to be outdone, Salt River Fields’ grassy lawn is just as much fun. The stadium is packed with concession choices, too. There’s ice cream for your sweet tooth, a taco bar for some south-of-the-border fare and plenty of beverage stands to quench your thirst. Same model here: bring a blanket and claim your spot on the grass.

The True Fanatic

You know your teams, players and stats – for you, Spring Training is the first step toward the World Series. Devoted fans like you will want to consider bleacher, outfield box, line box or grandstand tickets for Scottsdale Stadium. In these seats, the focus is completely on the game. You’re close enough to check out the lawn party action between innings, but you won’t have to battle for turf. Plus, you’re within easy reach of concession stands offering up traditional game-day favorites as well as gourmet fare you might not expect.

Prime location at Salt River Fields is in the 100 block, where seats surround team dugouts and bull pens as well as home plate. These seats fill up fast and are oftentimes reserved by season ticket holders, but rest assured that any of the stadium seats at Salt River Fields afford a quality view of the diamond and beyond.

The VIP

Looking for an elevated experience with all the perks? The Charro Lodge at Scottsdale Stadium has amazing views of the ballpark (and even Camelback Mountain), patio-style seating and complimentary food and beverages, including beer and wine. The Charro Lodge also is a great option for corporate and private groups, offering three separate seating sections and reserved space for groups of 50 or more.

Salt River Fields has three seating options for VIPs and groups. For large groups, the Pepsi Patio affords 360-degree views of the field as well as comfortable seating and catering options for 100 or more guests. For groups of 30 or so, opt for the shaded Miller Lite and Coors Light Cold Zones located above the third- and first-base dugouts. Finally, for a top-tier experience at Salt River Fields, reserve one of their Luxury Suites. We’re talking indoor-outdoor space, air-conditioning, private server, and food and drink for up to 15 people.

Get schedules and more information here.



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Having Four Seasons is Overrated

Let us introduce you to the best of winter in Scottsdale

We’re here to let you know that having four distinct seasons is overrated. Go ahead and tell us otherwise after you’ve successfully put on your tenth layer of clothing and shoveled the snow out of your driveway. While you’re doing that, we’re going to bask in the 72-degree weather outside. With world-class resorts and shopping, amazing golf courses, daily sunshine, and plenty of events going on, Scottsdale is the real winter wonderland. If you’re having a hard time visualizing the perfection that is Scottsdale with that snow storm outside your window, let us paint you a picture. Prepare to escape to Scottsdale.

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Our average winter weather report looks something like this.

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Our buildings don’t freeze over.

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Our golf courses look like this in the middle of winter

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 Photo Credit: mnlamberson

Not this

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Hiking boots get way more use than snow boots

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There’s a lot of poolside lounging going on . . . even in February.

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Photo Credit: Chip Larkin 

And we substitute snow clouds for these.

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Spring skiing? How about Spring Training.



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Take to the Skies

Fly high with these exciting aerial adventures stock-balloons-in-sky

Looking for a different point of view? Take to the skies to get a higher vantage point of the Sonoran Desert, Sedona’s red rocks, and the Grand Canyon. Whether you prefer to float in a balloon, cruise in a helicopter, or fly fixed-wing, we have you covered.

Hot Air Ballooning

You’ll have to get up early for this one (most flights depart at sunrise), but the spectacular views will make it all worthwhile. As your balloon lifts off, you’ll fly low enough to see desert critters scurrying about below. Then, as you gain altitude you’ll get amazing 360-degree views of Valley of the Sun and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Helicopter Flights

Swoop below the Grand Canyon’s South Rim for a bird’s eye view of the colorful cliffs, striking rock formations and mighty Colorado River. Or try an air/ground combo tour that leaves from Scottsdale and stops in Sedona’ Red Rock Country on the way to the Grand Canyon. And if you’d like to explore the wild blue yonder closer to Scottsdale, regional tours feature fly-bys of desert lakes, sunrise/sunset “magic hour” flights and custom charters.

Fixed-Wing Air Tours

Want to see some of Arizona’s most picturesque destinations and still be back in Scottsdale for happy hour? This is the adventure for you! Awe-inspiring flights on fixed-wing aircraft will take you to such well-known landmarks as Sedona, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Lake Powell, then whisk you back to Scottsdale in time to talk about the day’s adventure over cocktails.



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Tasty Takeaways

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We love local in Scottsdale, and there couldn’t be anything more local than take-away sweets or special condiments from a Scottsdale chef’s kitchen.

Super Chunk Sweets and Treats

Sweet dreams come true every day at downtown Scottsdale’s Super Chunk Sweets and Treats thanks to pastry wizard Country Velador. Homemade cakes and cookies, as well as small batch candies and ice cream, in a variety of whimsical flavors are available.

Bodega Market & Red Goat Wine

Brought to you by the fine folks at the adjacent FnB restaurant, this culinary treasure chest is brimming with locally made olive oils, pastas, sauces, jams, teas and sweets. You’ll also find locally grown produce and an outstanding selection of wine from Arizona vintners.

Citizen Public House

At Citizen Public House, the Tracy Dempsey Originals desserts are as creative as the provocative cocktails. Order the Bag O’ Bacon Brittle to go and satisfy your late-night sweet/salty cravings.

El Chorro Lodge

The sticky buns at El Chorro Lodge rival the view from the patio at weekend brunch. Pick up a half dozen (even better, a dozen) from the bar on your way out for a special breakfast treat any day of the week.

Beckett’s Table

Satisfy your sweet-and-crunchy craving any time of year with house-made candied pecans from Beckett’s Table. During cooler months, the restaurant also offers its delicious pumpkin seed brittle.

Brat Haüs

Brat Haüs will bag up their flavorful goodies for your next sausage fest, including their handmade and stone hearth-baked pretzels, specialty mustards, house-made sauerkraut and even their secret-recipe Hush Hush sauce.

And although they may not be edible, the cookbooks from Black Mountain Barbecue’s Bryan Dooley and True Food Kitchen’s Dr. Andrew Weil will be memorable keepsakes of your Scottsdale dining experience



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Monday, May 23, 2016

Picture Perfect Patios

Fresh air and fine dining go hand-in-hand at these local favorites

Patio dining is one of life’s greatest joys – feeling the sun on your shoulders, taking in a scenic view, discovering your new favorite dish. Make a reservation for one of these picture-perfect patios, then sit back, relax and prepare to be delighted!

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elements at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain

Stunning sunset views of Camelback Mountain and the farm-fresh cuisine of Food Network star and Executive Chef Beau MacMillan are the hallmarks of elements. MacMillan’s menu of farm-fresh American cuisine prepared with Asian accents is complemented by an extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails.

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Old Town Tortilla Factory

One-hundred-year-old pecan trees shade the patio of this expansive hacienda-style eatery in downtown Scottsdale. Order a specialty margarita made from one of the 140+ tequilas on hand, then savor Southwestern specialties like the Red Chile Pork Chop with ancho raspberry sauce or bacon-wrapped Sonoran Meatloaf with chipotle gravy.

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Talavera at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale

For panoramic desert and city views overlooking Pinnacle Peak, head north to the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. The menu focuses on locally and regionally sourced cuisine, emphasizing prime cuts of meat, poultry and game from boutique purveyors. For a special treat, Talavera offers monthly Mash Up Dinners featuring local chefs and unforgettably creative menus.

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LON’s at the Hermosa Inn

The tree-shaded patio is available any time, but it’s especially delightful during weekend brunch. Soak up the sun as you enjoy specialties like Short Rib Hash, Traditional Eggs Benedict and Durum Flour Pancakes with blueberries, house-made granola and Arizona honeycomb.

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SASSI

Breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert and Pinnacle Peak are your dining companions on the patio at SASSI, which blends old-world architecture with the time-honored traditions, hospitality and cuisine of Southern Italy. Handmade pastas, prime meats and fresh seafood are complemented by a charming, old-world Italian villa setting and scenic vistas.

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AZ88

It will take a little extra effort to find this local favorite, but trust us – it’s worth it. Nestled on the western edge of Scottsdale Civic Center Park, AZ88 is known as much for its eclectic crowd, rotating art displays and sun-drenched patio as it is for its upscale pub grub and signature martinis. Try the AZ88 Chicken sandwich, grilled in Buffalo sauce and topped with sautéed celery and blue cheese dressing, or Burger Au Poivre covered in peppercorns and sautéed in a burgundy sauce.

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Gertrude’s at the Desert Botanical

Nearly everything on Gertrude’s menu is prepared from scratch in-house using locally sourced, sustainable and organic ingredients. While options rotate seasonally, you’re likely to find delights like the Blackened Scallops with Tabasco Hollandaise and Chicken Salad Wrap with BBQ mayo, apple and fried onions. The patio is surrounded by lush desert flora, creating an idyllic setting for lunch, dinner or weekend brunch.

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The House Brasserie

This downtown charmer is located in one of Scottsdale’s oldest historic homes. Reserve a patio table in the shade of a majestic pine tree (the original owner’s Christmas tree from 1946) and enjoy Chef Matt Carter’s menu of re-imagined American classics like the Beer-Brined Jidori Chicken or Crab Spaghetti.

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Virtu Honest Craft

Located on property at downtown’s luxury B&B, Bespoke Inn, Virtù boasts one of Scottsdale’s most romantic patios. For brunch, Virtù delights with specialties like Sweet Crepes with Nutella and strawberries and the Flat Iron Steak sandwich with caramelized onions and truffle mustard. At dinner, local favorites include the Grilled Octopus with lemon chick peas and the Prosciutto Wrapped Pork Rib Chop.

Sassi

El Chorro

Iconic Camelback Mountain is the backdrop for El Chorro’s airy patio. Enjoy happy hour at the indoor-outdoor bar, or reserve a table under the blue umbrellas for a sunset dinner or weekend brunch. El Chorro’s dinner menu includes classics like Wild Salmon with purple “forbidden” rice and Roasted Pork Tenderloin bathed in a bourbon chile glaze. Be sure to save room for their signature sticky buns!



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Hiking Tom’s Thumb Trail

An insider’s take on hiking this North Scottsdale landmark toms-thumb Editor’s Note: This is a guest post by David Porter.  David runs a travel blog, The Roaming Boomers, where he and his wife, Carol, share their insiders’ view of Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Arizona.

One of the great benefits of visiting Scottsdale, Arizona is the vast array of breathtaking, long-range panoramas available. These views are especially plentiful when you take a healthy hike on one of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve’s hiking trails. Best of all, the Preserve is located right here within the city limits!

On a beautiful sunny day recently, my wife and I decided to climb up the back (north) side of Tom’s Thumb, a prominent Scottsdale landmark. You can get to this particular section of the Tom’s Thumb Trail via Happy Valley Road. Here is a map for your reference.

This particular trail is about 4.5 miles round trip. During the journey you will climb a little over 800 feet, with 1350 feet of accumulated gain. The trails are very well manicured and offer easy hiking except for the elevation gains.

Young people with young bones will find this easy hiking. Baby boomers can certainly enjoy this hike as well, you just may want to allow some extra time to catch your breath from time to time. We took our time, enjoyed the scenery, had a picnic at the top, and found ourselves back to our car in 4 1/2 hours.

We didn’t take the time to scope it out, but you may want to look around the summit area for the Ogre’s Den. This is a natural cave that was formed by one of the fallen massive granite boulders, and provides hikers a mysterious place to explore.

When hiking in the arid climate of the Sonoran Desert, it is imperative that you follow a few critical rules:

  • Let someone know where you are going, and when they can expect your return.
  • Make certain that you have protected yourself from the sun with a good sunscreen and hat.
  • Make absolutely certain that you have a least 2 liters of water/person for this hike. We both had two liters on our backs, and we were bone dry by the time we got back to the bottom.

If you prefer an easier hike, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve has over 30,200 scenic acres with a trail for every taste and level of fitness. In closing, it would be nearly criminal to visit Scottsdale and not get some cowboy dust on your shoes while hiking one of our beautiful trails. By all means, leave some time in your schedule for a day hike!



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The Delightful Dozen: Scottsdale’s 12 Best-Kept Secrets

Discover Scottsdale’s 12 Best-Kept Secrets They’re the perfect addition to any itinerary – those off-the-beaten-path gems that take your vacation from great to extraordinary. Here, in no particular order, are a dozen local favorites you won’t want to miss on your next trip to Scottsdale. super-chunk

Super Chunk Sweets & Treats

If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss this tasty downtown gem, which specializes in small-batch, handcrafted confections. Some of our favorites include the Mesquite Chocolate Chip Cookies, Honeycomb Ice Cream and Ancho Chocolate Caramels. Yummm!

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Rusty Spur

Get your Western on at Scottsdale’s oldest cowboy saloon! Housed in the former Farmers Bank of Scottsdale building, where the old vault now holds liquor instead of money, the Spur features live music seven days and nights a week.

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Arizona Wine List at FnB

Wine made in Arizona? You bet your Cabernet! Our state is home to a premier roster of talented vintners. Sample the fruits of their labor with a selection from restaurant FnB’s exclusive Arizona wine list – it’s the perfect complement to Chef Charleen Badman’s sophisticated comfort food.

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Magical History Tour at Hotel Valley Ho

Join the experts from Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours for an intimate look into the architecture and Hollywood past of Scottsdale’s Hotel Valley Ho, one of the best-preserved mid-century modern hotels in the country. The cost per person is $19.56 (the year the hotel opened).

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Native American Dancing at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale

Every Friday at 5 p.m. the center courtyard at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale comes alive with Native American music and dance. Performances by the Living Traditions Dance Troup, led by seven-time World Hoop Dance Champion Derrick Suwaima Davis, include Southwest Horse Dance, Hoop Dance and the audience-participatory Round Dance.

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Proof

A casual ambiance and home-style comfort food sourced from the 50 states are the hallmarks of this new restaurant at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. Beer Can Chicken, Smoked Babe on a Bun, Honey Whole Wheat waffles with cranberry-orange syrup are just a few of the tasty treats you’ll find at Proof.

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Scottish Golf at Kierland Golf Club

Give a nod to the game’s origins with this unique experience that includes kilt rental, Johnnie Walker beverage carts and a bagpiper who “calls in” golfers at the end of the day. After your round, stop by the Scotch Library at the Westin Kierland Resort and savor two-ounce pours of contemporary blends and rare 40-year-old single-malt whiskies (open 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. nightly).

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Aerial Hammock Yoga

Take your yoga practice to new heights with aerial yoga at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Well & Being Spa. The class uses soft fabric hammocks suspended from the ceiling to assist with stretching and perfecting your postures – all while floating a few feet above the floor.

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Sphinx Date Ranch

As the name implies, juicy Arizona dates take center stage at this 60-year-old Scottsdale landmark. But you’ll also find an enticing variety of other locally sourced gourmet treats, including desert honey, prickly pear jam and syrup, nut butters and artisan crackers.

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Via Cappello Dinners

Romance goes Mediterranean at the Royal Palms Resort where “lovers’ corners” like the Bell Tower and Garden of Love create the ideal setting for candlelit Via Cappello dinners. Custom menus, fresh flowers and live music add to the ambiance.

Sassi-Bar-Patio

SASSI

Nestled at the base of north Scottsdale’s Pinnacle Peak, Sassi is renowned for artisan cuisine inspired by the traditions of Southern Italy. The menu of fresh fish, meats, pasta and rustic bread is complemented by old-world architecture and stunning desert views.

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Spinners on the Green

Located just steps from the Shelly Sharpe Memorial Disc Golf Course, Spinners on the Green can get you outfitted with everything you need for exciting game of disc golf. They also rent bikes if you’d like to take a tour of the lush parks along the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt.



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Scottsdale Nightlife: 5 Different Experiences

Five different experiences to match your party style

No matter what your style, there’s plenty to see and do in Scottsdale after dark.

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Dance All Night

Ready to hit the dance floor? Scottsdale has plenty of options. On the 14th floor of Talking Stick Resort sits Degree 270, a premier dance club with stunning views of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert. Here, live entertainment is the perfect companion to regular drink specials and a sophisticated lounge atmosphere.

For a more traditional club experience, head to downtown Scottsdale’s Entertainment District where you’ll find hot spots like Maya Day + Nightclub, Bottled Blonde and Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row.

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Kick Back & Relax

When you’re ready for some laid-back fun, these come-as-you-are bars are sure to please. For artisan pizzas and local craft beer, head to downtown’s Craft 64. Grab a table on the tree-shaded patio, order a gourmet pie loaded with local organic ingredients, and sample any of the 35+ Arizona beers available on tap.

Also in downtown, Brat Haüs offers local ales and imported brews from as far away as Belgium and Germany. They’re the perfect pairing for hearty fare like house-made pretzels, brats and pork schnitzel.

And for the ultimate come-as-you-are experience, nothing beats Coach House. This downtown landmark has been around for more than 50 years and is known for its inexpensive drinks, friendly bartenders and an annual Christmas light display that must be seen to be believed.

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Visit the Wild, Wild West

Housed in what was Scottsdale’s first bank, the Rusty Spur is one of the city’s most popular Western watering holes. Celebs like the late John Wayne and Vince Vaughn have knocked back some suds and enjoyed the live music that plays at the Spur every day and night.

If line dancing is what you seek, mosey on over to Handlebar J Restaurant & Saloon. There’s live country music six nights week with the acclaimed Herndon Brothers Band taking the stage Wednesday through Sunday. And if your dance moves need some refining, Handlebar J offers free dance lessons every Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m.

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Listen Live

Scottsdale shines the spotlight on live entertainment at numerous venues around town. Musical expressions from around the world are on tap at Center Stage Bar at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch. From Southern harmony to edgy folk and acoustic soul, listen to it all in a whimsical setting of cascading fountains and glowing fireplaces.

There’s something very “Frank Sinatra” about the nightlife experience at Mastro’s City Hall Steakhouse. Take your pick from the long list of specialty martinis and settle in for an evening of masterful piano sounds. For a slightly edgier scene, check out Scottsdale Waterfront’s Culinary Dropout, which offers live music by local talent every Friday and Saturday night.

You’ll also find seasonal live concerts under the stars at a variety of Scottsdale venues, including the Desert Botanical Garden (fall and spring), Kierland Commons (summer) and McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park (summer).

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Explore Cocktail Culture

If you’re looking for a cocktail-driven experience, these are the hot spots to try. Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain’s stylish jade bar is the perfect place to enjoy breathtaking views and exotic drinks. Here, cocktails are art in motion with handcrafted concoctions like the Jade Rum Punch – a blend of Mount Gay rum, brown sugar syrup, Angostura bitters, lime juice and fresh mint.

Over at Second Story Liquor Bar, Old School meets New School thanks to mixologists John Christie and JT Tillman. Try an Old Fashioned exactly the way it was made in the 1800s or, for something more modern, order The Only Word, which features Buzz Button flower dust on the rim of the glass. You’ll love it, but you might have to wait a few minutes until your tongue isn’t numb to tell anyone about it. Other master mixologists making cocktail magic around town include Michelle Jacob at Gertrude’s, Mari Howe at Cowboy Ciao and Brian Goodwin at citizen public house.



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Friday, May 20, 2016

You Know it’s Springtime in Scottsdale When…

Six hallmarks of springtime in Scottsdale

In some cities around the country, springtime just means more cold weather with only the slightest hope of a warmer future. Spring in Scottsdale means plenty of sunshine, 80-degree days and these hallmarks of the season – you’ll know it’s spring in Scottsdale when . . .

Convertible Spring Automotive Rhythms

We take off the top of our car

Spring-Article

Your favorite baseball players come hang out with us for Cactus League Spring Training

Architectural Photography by Michael Baxter, Baxter Imaging LLC

The pools fill up with people getting a jumpstart on their base tans
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Meals move to the patio

jeep in water Spring

We break out the four-wheel drive
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Our golf courses look like this (which is pretty much how they looked all winter long – not that we’re trying to rub it in)

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Summer Survival Guide

Insider tips for enduring Scottsdale’s triple-digit summers

We won’t lie – summer in Scottsdale is hot. In fact, every year one of our local meteorologists makes a show of trying to fry an egg on the sidewalk. But don’t sweat it – with these tips, you’ll breeze right through the Scottsdale summer like a local. Who knows – you might even enjoy it!

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Seek out Shaded Parking

It’s normally the first rule of parking – close is good, far is bad. Forget it. During summer in Scottsdale, the rule is: shade is better than anything else. Just watch and you’ll see locals circling the parking lot like vultures, bypassing prime front-row spaces in search of a tree, an awning, even a tall building that will block our cars from the sun and keep them a few degrees cooler (and by “cooler” we really mean less hot).

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Cover Those Seats

Didn’t get a shady parking spot? Cover your leather, pleather or vinyl seats with a towel or you’ll hit higher notes than Beyoncé when you sit down.

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Head for the Pool

If it’s after 8 a.m., the only reason to be outside is to be in the pool. Triple-digit temps can’t ruin a good pool day, no matter how hard they try. If you really want to show summer who’s boss, reserve a shaded cabana and order up a pitcher of prickly pear margaritas. That’ll show ‘em.

Scottsdale CVB Desert Landscape

Reacquaint Yourself with Sunrise

Summer hiking is great – if you do it early enough. Set your alarm for oh-dark-thirty, grab a double-shot of joe and a large bottle of water (or two), and hit the trail at dawn. Just keep it short – a mile or two at most – because once the sun comes up, those temps will be on the rise.

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Revel in the A/C

Fortunately, just about every building in Scottsdale has air conditioning, so your midday options are many – shopping, museum-hopping, spa treatments, indoor rock climbing, go-kart racing and, of course, fabulous dining.

Arizona Desert Sunset from Dustin Farrell on Vimeo.

Embrace Your Inner Night Owl

When the sun goes down and temperatures slide back into the relatively cool double digits, the locals come out to play (trust us, after 110-degree days, 95 at night is practically chilly). Check out live concerts under the stars, Flashlight Tours at the Desert Botanical Garden, high-energy nightclubs in downtown Scottsdale and night-vision desert tours.

Always Wear Shoes Outside

Summer pavement, red-hot coals – sort of the same thing here in summer. Just keep in mind that walking on hot coals looks brave on YouTube. Walking on hot pavement? Not so much.

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Watch out for Haboobs

Wait, what? Haboobs (yup, that’s really what they’re called) are massive walls of dust kicked up by monsoon winds. They’re most common during July and August, and usually precede a brief, but spectacular, thunderstorm.

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Finally . . . Remember, It’s a Dry Heat

We’re not just blowing sunshine here – there’s real science behind it. It’s called the Comfort Index and it works like this: If the air temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity is 10 percent (pretty typical for a Scottsdale summer), the temperature your body actually feels is five degrees cooler. On the flip side, 100 degrees with 80 percent relative humidity feels more like 145 degrees to your body. Now that’s hot.



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