November 2015 Issue
Welcome to the November 2015 issue of Vicinity Magazine. Here you can flip through the magazine or read the articles by clicking on the stories below.
November 2015 Stories
A Walk with Nature
Venture out at the crack of dawn on a Saturday morning to the 1.2-mile-long summit trail of Piestewa Peak and you will see a reflection of pure Phoenix, of true Arizona. In the quiet of the gathering light, hikers bearing water bottles emerge from cars in…
Crudo for Brunch
Go gourmet over the weekend with Crudo’s brunch. This modern Italian-inspired gem of a restaurant serves up an incredible brunch with some creative takes on breakfast items such as the Brisket & Beet Hash with 63-degree Eggs or the Potato Croquettes…
Scottsdale Santa Headquarters
It is that time of year again and Santa is here to visit with kids of all ages. Meet him at the HGTV Santa HQ at Scottsdale Fashion Square. This great new venue near the food court brings the North Pole to our vicinity and will include Elf-Ray Vision, the…
Biltmore Ultimate Drive in Luxury
Arizona Biltmore is bringing back the ultimate driving experience with some of the world’s most exclusive super cars, for enthusiasts to tour Arizona in these exotic vehicles. Touring through some of the most stunning desert and mountain roads, these tw…
European Farmers Market
In recent years, the farmers market has become such a craze that grocers are hyping their farm-fresh produce and other great local products. The famed Vincent’s on Camelback has just opened another season of its gourmet farmer’s market that is fraught…
Hidden Art Enclave Is 30
Arcadia is home to a well-known art education and community center. Shemer Art Center & Museum is set in the heart of our neighborhood and began life as the first home built in the area. Built to accommodate the foreman of the Arcadia Water Company in…
Beach Time: Buck &Rider
The latest restaurant to pop up in our the vicinity is Buck &Rider (the crab-fishing term for intertwined male and female crabs … ‘nough said). Built from the ground up at the location of the old Havana Café and Camelback Florist, this sure-to-b…
Stay in Shape Off the Mountain
The Madison Improvement Club Known for its infectious energy, hipness oozes from this Arcadia yoga and spin studio that boasts it’s “hooked on healthy” and offers to let its denizens blast away calories in classes like “Party on a Bike” and “P…
Bring on the Mimosa
Meaning “yellow flower,” the Mimosa dates back to 1925 and is made of equal parts Champagne and fresh juice — with orange juice being the most common. Our vicinity is bubbling over with variations that include exotic juices, garnishes and more. Enj…
Local Trails Beckon
Camelback Mountain Cholla Trail Level: strenuous; recommended for experienced hikers Trailhead: 6131 E. Cholla Ln., Phoenix Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Trail Level: strenuous Trailhead: 5822-5886 N. Echo Canyon Pkwy., Phoenix Dreamy Draw Nature Trail (…
Bling Bling
“Jewelry is trying to be very wearable right now,” says Scott Gauthier, the creative force as well as the owner of Jewelry by Gauthier. In women’s necklaces, for example, the preference is pieces that are easy to put on and comfortable rather than b…
Brilliant Style
Black, Starr & Frost Iconic jeweler Molina welcomed the addition of Black, Starr & Frost to share his landmark chateau on Camelback and debut its storied 205-year history to Arizona. Both jewelers honor the tradition of offering customers the high…
ArtWalk Out and About
To misquote a Dionne Warwick song: Do you know the way to Marshall Way? Well, if you don’t, and you enjoy viewing art amid irresistible ambience while strolling with drink in hand in friendly weather, then you might want to set your GPS to what has been…
What Happens at ArtWalk Stays at ArtWalk
GET TO KNOW THEM: At receptions, openings and demonstrations, artists get to show off their work and discuss what went into creating them. Works range from Western traditional to cutting-edge contemporary. TAKE A LOAD OFF: Horse-drawn carriage rides and t…
And Fun for All
Outing the inner artist The Brush Bar Painting instruction for adults, plus beer and wine bar 4165 N. Craftsman Ct., Scottsdale (480) 947-8700 Me the Artist Painting parties at your home (480) 822-7999 Scottsdale Artists’ School Art clas…
Hotel Bars
Get refreshed in multiple ways at these fine properties. We’ve listed the great watering holes at some of our vicinity’s exclusive resorts. Jade Bar – Sanctuary Camelback 5700 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley (855) 245-2051 Last Drop Bar – Hermosa…
Spa to Make a (Community) Difference
Yes, the spa experience will set your mind at ease, relax you and rejuvenate you. But until the end of the year, the Sanctuary Spa will also help to make a difference in our community with the Spa for Good program. Spa-goers can benefit the National Kidne…
Living It Up: The Latest Enclaves
Poolside Luxury In addition to sleek and streamlined interior designs, The Moderne boasts fabulous but functional outdoor amenities. The complex has a resort-style pool and Jacuzzi, but adds something new: in-water lounge chairs. Beyond the pool, resident…
Modern Living: Urban Style Among It All
Undeniable charm is attracting more and more people to our neighborhoods, and the demand for housing continues to grow. Breaking away from the trademark stucco suburbs so blandly prevalent in the Southwest, these pioneers in luxury living break tradition …
Hosting Hits
AJ’s Fine Foods We’ve come to learn that AJ’s is the “Purveyors of Fine Foods,” and that speaks clearly through its extensive catering options. With menus designed for small and large events, AJ’s makes it easy to pick and choose what fits for…
Catered to You
Let’s face it — fall is the party season in Phoenix. It’s a good time for parties of all types, with family, friends and even work. Chances are you’ll be planning one of these events, and it’s important to have a network of people and companies …