COVERFOTO / Tatiana Katsai
DTPR MAGAZINE #14-1 2023
DTPR
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DISCOVER THE PHOENIX REGION
L I F E S T Y L E • W E L L B E I N G • H A P P E N I N G S
D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 - J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4
Puppy Training
For You & Your Furkids
Pampering your pets, teaching them their world, at
America’s most exclusive destinations.
Flagstaff
A Hop, Skip & Jump
Hiking, Skiing, Awesome Brew Pubs... SNOW!
Snow, I tell you!
Arizona State on Short
Term Rentals
Is AirBNB a viable option for you to make additional
income from your home investment?
PAMPERED
PUPS
For those of us who consider our pets cherished family
members, it’s only natural to want them to live a pampered and
luxurious life.
SANTAS LITTLE
HELPER
Everything you need to prepare for the holidays
ChildHelp®
Find out more about how this Arizona based organization has
saved millions of children across the globe from abuse, neglect
and exploitation.
Arizona’s Top
Golf Destinations
Get the 411 on the top golf courses in the Greater
Phoenix Region.
HEALTHY
LIVING
The fusion of nourishment and fitness with our expertly-crafted
articles, guiding you through invigorating workout regimens
and delectable, health-boosting culinary creations.
Puppy Training
For You & Your Furkids
Pampering your pets, teaching them their world, at
America’s most exclusive destinations.
Arizona State on Short
Term Rentals
Is AirBNB a viable option for you to make additional
income from your home investment?
Arizona’s Top
Golf Destinations
Get the 411 on the top golf courses in the Greater
Phoenix Region.
HEALTHY
LIVING
The fusion of nourishment and fitness with our expertly-crafted
articles, guiding you through invigorating workout regimens
and delectable, health-boosting culinary creations.
PAMPERED
PUPS
For those of us who consider our pets cherished family
members, it’s only natural to want them to live a pampered and
luxurious life.
SANTAS LITTLE
HELPER
Everything you need to prepare for the holidays
ChildHelp®
Find out more about how this Arizona based organization has
saved millions of children across the globe from abuse, neglect
and exploitation.
PHOENIX
DINING GUIDE
Embark on a culinary journey through our curated guide,
unveiling the top restaurants that tantalize taste buds and
redefine dining experiences in the area.
PHOENIX
DINING GUIDE
Embark on a culinary journey through our curated guide,
unveiling the top restaurants that tantalize taste buds and
redefine dining experiences in the area.
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At Rick Rome Creative we believe that the best ideas are the ones
that come to life. That’s why we take a creative approach to everything we do, from
brainstorming to execution. We work with our clients to understand their goals and
then develop campaigns that are both effective and memorable.
Whether you’re looking to launch a new product, increase brand awareness,
or generate leads, we can help. We offer a wide range of services, including:
• Creative strategy
• Branding
• Advertising
• SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
• Public Relations
• Digital marketing
• Content marketing
• Social media marketing
• UI / UX Responsive & Accessible Web Development
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DTPR MAGAZINE #14-1 2023
We’re passionate about our work and we’re always looking for new and innovative ways to help
our clients succeed. If you’re looking for an advertising agency that can make your ideas come
alive, contact us today.
Visit us on the web at https://rickrome.info or call us at (480) 798-1079 to learn more.
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DTPR MAGAZINE #14-1 2023
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Thriving in the Heart of Arizona
Greetings, dear readers! I’m Rick Rome, the Creative
Director of Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine,
and I’m excited to take you on a journey through our
vibrant city and its surroundings. The Valley of the Sun
has so much to offer, from stunning desert landscapes to
a myriad of cultural and recreational activities. In this
issue, we explore the best of Phoenix, focusing on living
a healthy and active lifestyle while highlighting the noble
work of Childhelp.
Embrace the Outdoors:
As the sun graces us with its warm glow almost every day,
Phoenix is an ideal place to cultivate an active lifestyle.
Our city is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether
you’re into hiking the iconic Camelback Mountain,
enjoying a leisurely bike ride along the canal, or finding
your zen during a sunrise yoga session, there’s no shortage
of ways to stay fit and savor the beautiful Arizona climate.
In this issue, we’ve curated a list of must-visit trails that
promise adventure for every fitness level.
Childhelp: A Beacon of Hope:
In our commitment to community welfare, we bring
you the inspiring story of Childhelp. This organization
is dedicated to providing support, healing, and hope
to abused and neglected children. Their work has
transformed the lives of countless youngsters, and we
believe in shedding light on their noble cause. Discover
how you can contribute to this remarkable initiative and
make a real difference in the lives of those who need it
most.
Culinary Delights and Cultural Gems:
No visit to Phoenix is complete without exploring
our thriving food scene. The Phoenix Region offers a
delectable array of cuisine, from authentic Mexican
street tacos to innovative farm-to-table fresh fare. We’ve
taken the liberty of selecting a few of our favorite dining
spots to satisfy your culinary cravings. And don’t forget
to delve into the rich cultural landscape; we’ve got a list
of the top cultural and arts venues on the calendar that
you won’t want to miss.
Connect with the Community:
At Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine, we believe
in fostering a great sense of unity and belonging in this
beautiful desert oasis we call home. Our publication is
your guide to the events, places, and stories that bring
us all together. Whether you’re a lifelong Phoenician or
a newcomer, we’re here to help you uncover the heart of
this incredible region.
From healthy living as well as outdoor adventures
to community connections and philanthropy, this issue
is your key to embracing the vibrant and ever-evolving
spirit of Phoenix. Thank you for joining us on this
journey, and we can’t wait to continue discovering the
Phoenix region together. Stay tuned for more stories,
tips, and inspiration in the issues to come.
Warmly,
Rick Rome
Creative Director
Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine
Welcome
Discover The Phoenix Region Magazine
Embracing Health, Culture, and The Community
DTPR DEC 2023 - JAN 2024 / EDITORIAL & TABLE OF CONTENTS
Rick Rome
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DTPR MAGAZINE #14-1 2023
Table of Contents
50-63
Bad Pup... GOOD PUP!
The Ultimate Puppy Training Guide.
(Cover Story)
68-73
FLAGSTAFF - A Winter Park Oasis
CLOSE ENOUGH FOR A DAY-TRIP.
When it comes to experiencing the enchanting
beauty of winter, many think of far-off
destinations like Aspen or Park City. However,
if you’re in Phoenix and craving a winter
wonderland, you might be surprised to
discover Flagstaff, Arizona, as a hidden gem
for a day-trip winter escape.
76-83
SOARING OVER ARIZONA
Hot air ballooning over Sedona, and
information on upcoming local ballooning
events.
Child abuse is reported
every 10 seconds
Donate I Advocate I Save a Life
Childhelp.org/ChildHelper
The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline serves as a resource
to at-risk youth, and adults and children in crisis.
1-800-4-A-CHILD®
If you need help, please call us.
P h o e n i x
C a v e
C r e e k
S c o t t s d a l e
S c o t t s d a l e
A n t h e m
Pe o r i a
Glendale
F o u n t a i n H i l l s
P h o e n i x
Te m p e
Pa r a d i s e Va l l e y
M e s a
G i l b e r t
101
101
101
202
202
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I-10
I-17
60
I-10
101
C h a n d l e r
143
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S u r p r i s e
S u n
C i t y
El
Mirage
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18-23
CHILDHELP, Saving Children’s
Lives Globally!
One Heroic Rescue at a Time!
34-36
MAKE MONEY ON YOUR HOME!
Navigating Evolving Arizona Short-Term
Rental and Airbnb Regulations.
90-97
SAVORING WELLNESS!
Low Carb & Vegan Delights for Healthy Living.
26-33
PHOENIX RISING:
Unveiling the Evolution of the Property
Market in the Valley of Opportunity.
118-123
PARK FIT!
Total-Body Workouts with Suspension Straps
at The Playground.
40-49
HEALTHY IN THE SONORAN
Navigating Phoenix’s Extensive
Wellness Terrain.
112-117
WORLD CLASS GOLF DESTINATIONS!
Arizona Has So MANY TO CHOOSE
FROM!
98-111
“SANTA’S LITTLE HELPER”
Delving into the Joyful Chaos and Magic of
the Christmas Season!
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Phoenix is heating up this December, and we’re not just talking
about the weather! The city’s abuzz with events that’ll make you feel
as festive as a cactus wearing a Santa hat. From ZooLights at the
Phoenix Zoo, twinkling with enough lights to make Rudolph jealous,
to the Glendale Glitters Festival, where the lights shine brighter than
your uncle’s ugly holiday sweater—there’s no shortage of sparkly
spectacles to keep you merry and bright. And let’s not forget the
artsy side of December! Tempe’s Festival of the Arts is bringing together
artists who can turn a canvas into a masterpiece faster than you
can say ‘Jingle Bells.’ And for a touch of holiday magic, Las Noches
de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden will make you feel
like you’re strolling through a winter wonderland lit by 8,000 luminarias.
Trust us, you won’t want to miss a December in Phoenix that’s livelier
than Santa’s workshop on Christmas Eve!
“DECEMBER IN ARIZONA SPARKLES
WITH A UNIQUE DESERT MAGIC,
WHERE HOLIDAY LIGHTS TWINKLE
AMIDST SAGUAROS, AND OUTDOOR
ADVENTURES DANCE WITH THE
FESTIVE SPIRIT. EMBRACE THE
WARMTH OF THE SUN AND THE
SEASON’S CHEER, FOR HERE,
DECEMBER BRINGS A SPECIAL KIND
OF SHIMMER TO
THE DESERT SANDS.”
December
Calendar
Dive into the vibrant spirit of December in the Phoenix region
with our exclusive guide, illuminating the array of festive events
and seasonal celebrations waiting to captivate you.
DTPR DEC 2023 - JAN 2024 / CALENDAR OF EVENTS
December 2023
All Month:
ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo: (All Month)
A magical holiday experience with over 3 million
twinkling lights, illuminated animal sculptures,
and festive activities for all ages.
https://www.phoenixzoo.org/events/ZooLights/
Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer at Herberger
Center Stage Theater:
(Showtimes throughout December)
Follow Rudolph’s journey with Hermey the Elf and
Yukon Cornelius encountering the Abominable
Snowman and the land of Misfit Toys. Watch
the TV classic come alive on stage with
stunning effects and cherished tunes like “Ru-
dolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Holly Jolly
Christmas.” Sam The Snowman narrates while
the North Pole, including Santa Claus and playful
elves, mesmerizes. Childsplay’s magical production
celebrates uniqueness.
Join a backstage tour after the December 9 or
December 23, 4pm shows.
https://herbergertheater.org/events/rudolph-the-
red-nosed-reindeer-2/
A Christmas Carol at The Hale Theater:
(Showtimes throughout December)
Their spectacular and heartwarming rendition of
Dickens’ timeless tale of redemption comes
to life magically. This production brims with
traditional carols, breathtaking costumes, and
unforgettable characters, ensuring a season filled
with joy and warmth for families. Celebrating its
21st year in Gilbert, this production promises to
be an enriching experience for all.
https://www.haletheatrearizona.com/Online/ar-
ticle/achristmascarol23
Ballet Arizona: The Nutcracker
(Showtimes throughout December)
In a grand return to Symphony Hall, Ballet Arizona
presents a holiday classic. Experience the magic
and delight of the season through Ib Andersen’s
rendition of The Nutcracker, accompanied by The
Phoenix Symphony’s masterful performance of
Tchaikovsky’s cherished score. Join Clara on her
wintry escapades as she confronts a number
of mischievous mice and captivates the Sugar
Plum Fairy. Whether it’s your debut or your 100th
viewing of The Nutcracker, this heartening tradition
never ceases to mesmerize, bringing smiles to all
who attend!
https://balletaz.org/performance/the-nutcrack-
er-2023/
Enchant Christmas at Salt River Fields
Set amidst the Arizona Diamondbacks and
Colorado Rockies’ Cactus League Spring
Training home, this event captures the unique
holiday spirit of the Sonoran Desert. Discover
an immersive holiday experience featuring a
dazzling light maze spread across 10 acres.
Explore illuminated sculptures, a towering
100-foot Christmas tree, and skate through
a twinkling forest. Don’t miss the charming
artisan vendors and boutiques within tiny
storefronts at Enchant!
https://enchantchristmas.com/scottsdale-az-
salt-river-fields/
World of Illumination: Cosmic Sleighride
At Tempe Diablo Stadium (All Month)
Climb aboard your cosmic sleigh with your host
Shiny the Star on a mystical holiday adventure
that is out of this world at Cosmic Sleighride pro-
duced by World of Illumination. Shoot past the
sun, race among the stars and pass through Kris
Kringle’s celestial portal where toys prepare for
launch. Orbit around a team of astro elves hov-
erboarding through the cosmos as you enter the
stratosphere of Santa City, where all the holiday
magic happens. Hold on to your seat — you’re in
for one stellar ride.
https://www.worldofillumination.com/tickets/
tickets-tempe-arizona-diablo-stadium
DECEMBER 1ST
Artlink’s First Fridays Art Walk in Downtown
Phoenix
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Downtown Phoenix, Various Locations
Description: Stroll through the vibrant streets of
Downtown Phoenix and discover a diverse array
of art galleries, studios, and cultural institutions
open late for First Fridays Art Walk.
https://artlinkphx.org/
DECEMBER 1ST - 3RD
The Phoenix Symphony Presents Holiday Pops
This dazzling performance is designed to infuse
a festive spirit into your heart. With a selection
of carols and hymns representing various traditions,
the atmosphere will make your season merry and
bright. Led by guest conductor Gerald Steichen,
the Symphony, accompanied by the Phoenix
Symphony Chorus, anticipates a very special
appearance from a certain North Pole celebrity,
promising an enchanting experience for all of the
attendees!
https://www.phoenixsymphony.org/show/holi-
day-pops-2324/
DECEMBER 9TH
Discovery Days at Taliesin West
Presented by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation
Discover art, architecture, and nature during
Taliesin West’s Discovery Days. Unearth the
Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s impact while
freely exploring our grounds with performances,
as well as a series of interactive activities, ask-
me stations, and family crafts. Join us on the
9th of December and uncover what Taliesin
West and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation
offer. Limited tickets available for Discovery
Days. Secure yours now at:
https://franklloydwright.org/event/discov-
ery-days/
Alice Cooper’s 21st Annual Christmas Pudding
Presented by the Celebrity Theatre
Christmas Pudding, a top Phoenix holiday event,
brings together stars like Alice Cooper, Sammy
Hagar, Nancy Wilson of Heart, Quiet Riot, and
Sixwire for our 21st Annual Fundraiser, backing
Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Centers in Phoenix
& Mesa. Enjoy these exciting Solid Rock teen
performances, including winners of the 2023
Proof is in the Pudding Music & Dance Competi-
tion, with the Bucket Brigade, Solid Rock Dance
Company, and cheerful Christmas surprises.
https://www.alicecoopersolidrock.com/event/
christmaspudding2023/
DECEMBER 11TH
Breakfast with Santa at Neiman Marcus
Saturday, Dec. 11 at 10 a.m.
Neiman Marcus is hosting a breakfast with Santa
including photo opportunities and carolers.
hosted at the Neiman Marcus in Scottsdale
4th Annual 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl
Saturday, Dec. 11 noon to 8 p.m.
Put on your best holiday sweater and buy tickets
to enjoy festive libations at nine participating bars
in Scottsdale. If you have a December birthday,
you can also send a photo of your ID for proof
to the event to get a free pass for you and five
friends.
https://tinyurl.com/12BarCrawl
DECEMBER 15TH
Cirque Du Soleil ‘Twas The Night Before…
at the Arizona Financial Theatre
Multiple shows from Friday, Dec. 15 to Sunday,
Dec. 24. “’Twas the Night Before...” is an exciting
twist on the cherished Christmas tale, brought to
life in the unique style only Cirque du Soleil can
provide. This joyful performance combines love,
holiday spirit, exhilarating acrobatics, in addition
to endearing characters.
https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/twas-the-night-
before
DECEMBER 16TH
SPOTTED: PHOENIX DECEMBER 2023 CAR
SHOW
at the Martin Auto Museum
Indulge in a day filled with gourmet food, refreshing
drinks, and an exquisite display of top-tier vehicles
from the Phoenix region, all showcased in our outdoor
venue area. Explore the Martin Auto Museum, where
more than 150 classic cars await your admiration.
Don’t miss the chance to experience this automotive
spectacle!
Wristbands for museum entry will be conveniently
available for purchase at both entrances.
https://linktr.ee/spottedphoenix
DECEMBER 22ND
Friday Night Films: White Christmas at
Taliesen West
Presented by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation
Experience the nostalgia of classic cinema in
a historic space at Taliesin West! Join us for
screenings of old-Hollywood favorites in our
Cabaret Theater, showcasing the significance of
film at Taliesin West. This week’s feature is “White
Christmas” (1954), a holiday classic capturing the
tale of veterans aiding a retired general with a
musical show at his New England inn.
https://franklloydwright.org/event/friday-night-
films-white-christmas/
***
This event information provided in this calendar
section of Discover The Phoenix Region magazine
is sourced from various organizers, and while we
work to achieve accuracy, details such as dates,
times, and locations may be subject to change.
We recommend verifying event specifics directly
with the event organizers before making plans or
attending.
Discover The Phoenix Region is not responsible
for any modifications, cancellations, or inaccuracies
related to the listed events.
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DTPR MAGAZINE #14-1 2023
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Over the past decade, these coveted neighborhoods have witnessed remarkable growth, with property values
skyrocketing. In Westlake Village, median home prices have soared by over 120%, while in Thousand Oaks,
they’ve climbed by an impressive 70%. Calabasas and Malibu have also seen significant value appreciation, with
median home prices increasing by over 100% and 80%, respectively.
Favorable Airbnb laws in these areas allow homeowners to rent out their properties for short periods, providing
a lucrative income stream and the flexibility to enjoy their homes as they please.
https://shoketproperties.com
SM