AZ Sports & Lifestyle v6.1 2014 Jan-Feb by AZ Sports & Lifestyle Magazine

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AZSPORTS&LIFESTYLE ▲

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014

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covering the game of life

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from the publisher Publisher

Joe Orr Editor

Hello readers! Welcome to another issue of Arizona Sports & Lifestyle Magazine (AZSAL).

Curt Blakeney Art Direction & Design

We all made it. Yes indeed, we've survived another crazy holiday season. Perhaps it was a day trip to see your long lost Aunt Stella, spending some “quality time” with family drinking all the eggnog you can put down your stomach or you just laid low this past holiday season, but now it's over! For most of us, we're just glad we made it through the crazy times, yet again. Well a big cheers and a happy New Year to all of us!

Dara Fowler Associate Editor

I.R. Hunthausen Senior Editor

Michelle Talsma Everson Copy Editors

With 2014 here, we are all looking forward to making it another great year. We've all set some imaginative goals for ourselves. AZSAL is kicking off the year with a bang ... establishing another exciting partnership with the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Phil Mickelson does indeed “thrill.” The ASU grad is prepared to defend his dramatic win at last year’s 2013 WMPO. The event itself for Arizonans is consistently the event of the year to attend. Great golf, great scenery, great weather and just plan ole' good times. We will see you out there.

Michele Dawson Grace Miller Jennifer Reisinger Scott Verbout Director of Sales & Marketing

Kellie Dionne Photo Editor

Gene Lower Lewis Black is appearing soon at the legendary Orpheum Theater, as well as the Music Hall in Tucson, and AZSAL has got you covered with an exclusive interview and feature on him. This insanely loud, yet critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, actor and author performs for audiences around the world, and he is Arizona bound. Fair warning: like the man himself, the feature is not PG.

Advertising Design

Joe Becker, Kristin Moore Production Assistant

Vince Van Groski Website

Our first issue of the year is packed with all the stuff you're expecting. Exciting sports features, good eats, cool gear, hot new cars, the best sports bars to watch the Super Bowl and much more. And for all of you expecting parents, AZSAL has even brought you our first ever, baby gear guide. True to our motto, we do cover the game of life.

David Carrington Contributing Photographers

Michael Fadyk Tommy Kowalski John McMurray Kristin Moore Bill Nash

Happy New Year! Contributing Writers

Now keep reading …

Joe Orr, Publisher AZSAL joe@azsal.com

Lee Allen Laura Holloway Charles Hudson Chris Kaplan Chelsea Josten Scott Keppel Byron Kline Stacey Lane Dr. James C. Marotta Ryan Read Katie Snyder Amanda Ventura Jaden Washington AZ Sports & Lifestyle Magazine

4537 E. Thistle Landing • Phoenix, AZ 85044

480.233.0409 • www.azsal.com To subscribe or advertise call 480.233.0409 or email Joe@azsal.com Copyright 2014 — AZ Sports & Lifestyle Magazine All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without permission is prohibited. Arizona Sports & Lifestyle Magazine is printed on 20% recycled (10% post-consumerwaste) paper. All inks used contain a percentage of soy base. Our printer meets or exceeds all Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) standards. PRINTED IN THE USA

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table of contents January/February 2014

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The Greatest Show on Grass Returns The Waste Management Phoenix Open in Scottsdale kicks off on January 27

All in the Family

Madder and Badder Than You’ve Seen Before

With an excellent basketball pedigree, University of Arizona guard Nick Johnson is making a name for himself in Tucson

Lewis Black kicks off the New Year with a tour sure to knock the stupid right outta ya

Glass Menagerie

Racing up the Ranks

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Leading Off

Home Gear Guide

Gear Guide

Good Eats Modern Margarita in Phoenix

Golf Golf Course Grills Golf Gear Guide

Wheels Hyundai Equus Kia Sorento Subaru Outback Kia Cadenza Toyota Corolla, Lexus IS 350 and Nissan Versa Note

Music Country Thunder

Good Times Super Bowl Sports Bar Roundup

Gear Guides Winter Gear Guide Gadget Gear Guide Valentine's Day Gift Guide Baby Gear Guide

Fit & Trim Fitness goals in the New Year Fitness DVDs

Good Health Common diet myths

Self & Body The feel-good skincare routine

AZ Real Estate Second homes

Desert Botanical Garden's 'Chihuly in the Garden' is a spectacular display by renowned glass sculptor Dale Chihuly

NASCAR rookie and Tucson native Alex Bowman is revving up the racing world

departments

On the cover: Local golf legend Phil Mickelson looks to defend his title at the 2014 Waste Management Phoenix Open. PHOTO BY COMMUNICATION LINKS

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RECIPES OF THE MONTH

HORCHATA COFFEE COCKTAIL

SKINNY BREEZE

Ingredients: • 1½ oz Hennessy V.S • 1 oz Espresso • 1½ oz Diluted condensed milk (diluted 1:1 with water) • ¼ oz Grand Marnier • 4 dashes Angostura Bitters Preparation: In a shaker tin add all liquids and shake with ice. Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with freshly grated cinnamon and an orange twist.

Ingredients: • 1½ oz. Voli Mango Coconut • 2 oz. Diet Cranberry Juice • 1 oz. Light OJ • Lime Squeeze Preparation: Build all ingredients over ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with lime twist. — Recipe courtesy of Voli's Vodka (volivodka.com)

— Recipe courtesy of Hennessy (www.hennessy.com)

CALI THYME Ingredients: • 1½ oz. Caliche Rum • ½ oz. Lemon juice • ¾ oz. Pomegranate juice (Pom Brand is recommended) • 3 sprigs of fresh thyme • ½ oz. Combier orange liqueur (or any other fine triple sec) • 1 dash of agave nectar (optional if you don't like dry cocktails) Preparation: Combine all ingredients over ice in a cocktail shaker, and shake vigorously until well chilled; serve in a chilled cocktail coupe, and garnish with a thyme sprig. — Recipe courtesy of Caliche Rum (www.calicherum.com)

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BERRY DELICIOUS PANCAKES

— Recipe courtesy of Kretschmer Wheat Germ (www.mywheatgerm.com)

FAVORITE LUNCH STOP: Zzeek’s Pizza Factory NOT MANY PLACES IN THE VALLEY offer a tasty XL pepperoni pizza for only $12. Fortunately for folks near the Bashas' Plaza at 48th Street and Warner in Ahwatukee, there is Zzeek’s Pizza Factory, which opened recently to great reviews. On any given weekday evening, Zzeeks is packed with hungry patrons. This family-friendly, locally-owned pizza factory is the creation of pizza pros Jody and Mark Pectol, who filled a niche in Ahwatukee, serving up fantastic pizza, subs, salads and desserts. The pizza — served up fresh in house, carry out or free delivery — has a zesty sauce with that perfect zing to complement the mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings. While Zzeek’s pizza knocks it out of the park, they also serve up tasty subs. Our favorite is the Zesty Chicken sub: chicken breast, green peppers, onions, mushrooms, provolone and a honey citrus sauce. Zzeek’s has great drink specials, beers on tap, and all bottles of beer are only 2 bucks ... all day, every day. Zzeek’s Pizza Factory, 4825 E. Warner Rd., Phoenix ; 480-940-5555; www.zzeeks.com

Ingredients: • 1 cup Krusteaz Buttermilk Pancake mix • ¼ cup Kretschmer Original Toasted Wheat Germ • ¼ cup chopped walnuts • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon • 1 egg • ½ cup fat-free milk (or up to 1 cup for thinner pancakes) • ½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries, or fruit of choice • 1 teaspoon canola oil • ¼ cup all fruit jelly, flavor of choice Preparation: In medium bowl, mix together pancake mix, Kretschmer wheat germ, walnuts and cinnamon. In small bowl, whisk together egg and milk; add to dry ingredients, stirring until combined. Stir in blueberries or fruit of choice. Heat large non-stick pan over high heat. Add ½ teaspoon oil. Once the oil is hot, pour about ¼ cup of batter into the pan. Then pour another ¼ cup batter into pan, allowing space between each pancake. Add two more pancakes if there is enough room in the pan and cook until pancakes are crispy but not burned on one side, about 1½ minutes. (You may need to adjust the heat so pancakes cook properly.) Flip pancakes and cook for another 1½ minutes until pancakes are no longer raw on the inside. Repeat by adding other ½ teaspoon oil. Let pan get hot and pour out ¼ cups of batter to make the rest of the pancakes. While the pancakes are cooking, place the all fruit jelly in microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for about 30 seconds or until jelly is completely melted. Serve pancakes with warm jelly sauce divided evenly on top of pancakes.

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DRAG RACING COMING TO WILD HORSE PASS MOTORSPORTS PARK

EDITOR’S PICKS SOFTWARE: Norton 360 2014 — Norton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus and Internet protection. An exclusive mix of technologies identifies threats, outsmarts thieves, automatically backs up important files and treasured memories, and restores PCs to maximum horsepower. $39.99; www.symantec.com SOFTWARE: Microsoft Office 365 Home Premium — The 2013 versions of familiar Office applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint include new features that help you create, communicate and work efficiently from virtually anywhere. The package features all of Microsoft's applications plus Cloud services including Skype and SkyDrive on up to five PCs, Windows 8 tablets, and Macs. $99.99; www.microsoft.com SOFTWARE: Dragon Premium 12 — Ignites new levels of personal productivity and convenience by enabling you to interact with your PC by voice. Dictate or modify documents, spreadsheets and presentations; manage e-mail; search the web; post to Facebook and Twitter, and more. $99; www.nuance.com LAPTOP DEVICE: Satechi USB Portable Humidifier — Attaches to the top of most water bottles and the filter extends downward into the bottle. Powered via USB 2.0 or 3.0, it draws water through the filter dispensing it into the air as vapor. $22.99; www.satechi.net BOOK: Personal Finance For Dummies, 7th Edition — Renowned financial counselor Eric Tyson combines his time-tested financial advice with updates to his strategies, giving you a better-thanever guide to taking an honest look at your current financial health and setting realistic goals for the future. $22.99; www.amazon.com

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NEWLY TRANSFORMED WILD HORSE PASS MOTORSPORTS PARK (formerly known as Firebird International Raceway) in Chandler, located on the Gila River Indian Community, is hosting the second stop in the 2014 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Tickets for the 30th annual CARQUEST Auto Parts NHRA Nationals are now on sale. The tradition-rich facility, which is under new management, has a reputation among NHRA race teams and fans for its record-setting potential and for showcasing very close race finishes. The event will feature thrilling competitions in three of the NHRA's professional categories, including the 8,000-horsepower, nitro-fueled Top Fuel dragster and Funny Car classes, along with the 200 mph Pro Stock category. Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Erica Enders-Stevens (Pro Stock) are the defending winners of the events, which will be televised on ESPN2 HD. Many other stars of the sport, including 16-time Funny Car world champion John Force, Top Fuel world champ Shawn Langdon, Antron Brown, Courtney Force, Matt Hagan and Cruz Pedregon, among others, will be competing at 320 mph, trying to bring home another NHRA Wally trophy. The new Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park is not only a race track, but an entertainment center for holding concerts, festivals, and both car and boat races. Upcoming renovations include a resurfaced drag strip, updated suites and control tower, state-of-the-art timing and scoring systems, and grandstand seating by the starting line. Future plans include a family-friendly water sports park with a whitesand beach; families will be able to sail boats, wakeboard, picnic on grass, and enjoy walking trails around the lake. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.racewildhorse.com or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/WildHorseMotorsportsPark.

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BIG NEWS FOR ARIZONA SKIERS AND SNOWBOARDERS FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, ski and snowboard trips to northern Arizona can be booked with confidence, as Arizona Snowbowl is celebrating its first full season of snowmaking, covering 60 percent of the trails, the same snowmakers as those used at the 2014 Sochi Olympic games, Beaver Creek, Deer Valley and Jackson Hole, among many others. While fingers are crossed for a 400-plus-inch desert-powder-repeat (winter 2004-05), the high elevation, cold temps and dry humidity under Arizona's highest peaks, Humphreys (12,633') and Agassiz (12,356'), are perfect for snowmaking well into spring. Proven during last season's second half, in optimal conditions, enough snow can be made overnight to cover a mile of Route 66 ... all four lanes. Put to better use, the snow will cover many green, blue and black trails, including lower Volcano, all trails served by the Sunset Triple chairlift, Hart Prairie and Aspen beginner lifts as well as both the Big Spruce and Little Spruce Carpets. All areas in the Sunset Terrain Parks are covered, making the parks Arizona's best option for freestyle skiing and riding. Savings are deep at Arizona Snowbowl, including "Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month" (January), with big discounts on lessons, equipment

rentals and lift tickets for first-timers. February discounts include "Family Fridays," "Boomer Thursdays” (ages 50+), and midweek deals on pre-purchased tickets. Spring break specials will be offered through March (historically Snowbowl's snowiest month). Every day there's big savings for groups and free skiing on birthdays, with ID. For additional deals and details: www.arizonasnowbowl.com/specials or call 928-779-1951. Arizona Snowbowl facts: 40 runs (37 percent beginner, 42 percent intermediate, 21 percent advanced); longest is 2 miles; 6 chairlifts (four aerial and two surface); 9,200' base elevation, 11,500' highest lift-served elevation; 777 skiable acres; 2,300' vertical drop, more than Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Durango, Brian Head, Eagle Point, Monarch, Wolf Creek and every ski area in New Mexico except Taos at 2,612' (source verticalfeet.com).

FLAG FOOTBALL ON THE RISE

DREAMS OF SUMMER GALA

WHILE INCREASED CONCERN over head trauma is steering parents away from letting their children play tackle football, a record number of children are learning the great gridiron game by playing flag football. That’s according to i9 Sports, one of the nation’s leading organized youth flag football leagues, which recently reported a jump of 18 percent in flag football participation nationwide since 2010. That includes a 38 percent increase in flag football participation in the Phoenix area since just last season. The report comes on the heels of last week’s revelation by ESPN that Pop Warner, the nation’s largest youth football program, has experienced a stunning loss of more than 23,000 kids playing tackle football since 2010. The decrease of 9.5 percent is likely due to parents’ increased concerns over concussions, according to Pop Warner's chief medical officer, Dr. Julian Bailes. USA Football says the report is consistent with what they are seeing across the United States. Nationally, participation among youth ages 6-14 fell from 3 million to 2.8 million in 2011, a 6.7 percent decline. Offering all the fun of tackle football without the risk of serious injury, flag football is rapidly becoming the youth sport of choice among parents who question whether kids should play tackle football. The primary difference is that flag football is a “no contact” game. Instead of tackling the ball carrier, defensive players try to pull the flags off the ball carrier’s belt. For more information on flag football leagues in your area, visit www.i9sports.com.

ON FEB. 28, 2014, the Southwest Kids' Cancer Foundation invites community supporters to purchase tickets for the first Dreams of Summer Gala to benefit the children of Arizona Camp Sunrise. This event is vital to the success of Arizona Camp Sunrise. Camp Sunrise is the first camp in Arizona for children with cancer, and was established in 1983. There were 23 cancer patients and 8 staff members in the White Mountains for the inaugural camp, where staff and children slept in tents and worked together to cook meals. In 1985, the camp moved to the R-C Scout Ranch, northeast of Payson. Thanks to the generous support of many Arizonans, the facilities have grown exponentially. There are now seven cabins, a full dining hall and kitchen, and a medical cabin capable of providing cancer treatment support. The camp currently supports hundreds of children affected by cancer, offering camps, retreats, and other services year-round. In 2013, the Southwest Kids’ Cancer Foundation was established to continue the 31-year legacy of Arizona Camp Sunrise, and is committed to actively preserving and advancing these camps and programs for children affected by cancer and their families. For more information, or to register for the Dreams of Summer Gala, visit www.azcampsunrise.org.

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WHAT'S SUPP IT'S THE NEW YEAR, which means sports supplements and vitamins will be flying off the shelves. Here are the top ones we've tested:

1 • SeroVital-hGH — Consists of a blend of amino acids to naturally increase your body’s production of growth hormones. Higher HGH levels are associated with youthful skin integrity, lean musculature, an increased sex drive and elevated energy production. $99; www.serovital.com 2 • Body Glove Surge — Instant and long lasting natural energy shot with protein and green tea. Reduces fatigue, increases alertness, enhances mental concentration and extends endurance. $13.99 (6-pack); www.bodyglovesurge.com 5

3 • EBOOST — Vitamin-infused drink supports energy, focus and hydration with green tea, coconut water, green coffee bean, antioxidants, electrolytes and vitamins B6, B12 and D. $39 (box of 12 2 oz. shots); www.eboost.com. 4 • Z Burn — An all-natural fat burner/sleep aid that you take before bed to burn extra calories and get a restorative night of sleep. $44; www.z-burn.com 5 • Blowfish for Hangovers — Sick of 6 p.m. happy hour making your 6 a.m. alarm the most dreaded part of your day? This powerful combo of caffeine and aspirin delivers fast results. $11.99 (12-tablet pack); www.forhangovers.com

HANGOVER BLUES ALTHOUGH PEOPLE HAVE SUFFERED FROM HANGOVERS SINCE ANCIENT TIMES, there is relatively little conclusive scientific research on the exact mechanisms that cause these Sunday morning miseries. Scientists have found it difficult even to establish a precise definition of "hangover," with most of the literature identifying it vaguely as a group of unpleasant physical and mental symptoms that begin several hours after a person has stopped drinking. The most commonly cited symptoms of a hangover are no surprise to anyone who’s had one: headache, fatigue, sour stomach and thirst. There are a number of factors that can cause a person to get a hangover, including the type of alcohol being consumed, the nature in which alcohol is being consumed (binge drinking, mixing different alcohols) or combining substances with alcohol. However, the primary cause of hangovers after a night out drinking is dehydration. The best way to minimize hangovers is to stay hydrated while you're drinking and choose drinks that are low in congeners. Congeners are chemical compound by-products of the alcohol distillation or fermentation process and give liquors their distinctive flavors, smells and colors. Darker beverages such as whiskey, brandy, and red wine generally have higher levels of congeners than clearer beverages such as white wine, beer, vodka or gin, which have more pure ethanol. Given how prevalent hangovers are, the condition has been generally neglected by the medical research community, either because it is entirely pre-

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ventable (by not drinking alcohol) or because some scientists fear that curing hangovers will encourage excessive drinking. This is beginning to change, and while there is still relatively little known about hangovers, there seems to be consensus that: 1) there are a number of mechanisms by which alcohol can make you feel terrible the next day and 2) there is no magic hangover cure that can completely prevent or cure hangovers.

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gear guide

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Pyle Surf Sound MP3 player

This 4 GB waterproof MP3 player comes with waterproof wraparound earbuds for music enjoyment anywhere, anytime. Features soft touch buttons to control power, volume, skip and play/pause functions. $59.99; www.PyleAudio.com

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Bracketron Smart Lantern Charger, lantern and flashlight combo unit perfect for outdoor recreation and emergency preparedness kits. Battery can store its charge for up to one year for added peace of mind. $79.95; www.bracketron.com

New Balance 867 Women's Cross-Training Shoes The New Balance 867 cross-training shoe features a pivot point outsole for smooth, multi-directional movement. It also offers multi-layered strapping for a secure fit and rounded edges for support during side-to-side motion. Its no-sew, breathable mesh upper provides seamless comfort and its lace lock holds down unruly laces. $79; www.newbalance.com

Multi-use bag that functions as a backpack for school, laptop and tablet backpack, or simple travel bag. Half backpack, half messenger bag, a classic bag that incorporates modern day functionality with vintage style. $198; www.xplorerbrand.com

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Urban Xplorer Halfpack RT

BikeConsole Smart Mount The Smart Mount is an advanced, heavy-duty, waterproof and shockproof bicycle mount for your smartphone. Featuring SoundBoost microvent sealing technology for enhanced speakers and mic sound, it's a great accessory for any bike ride, from leisure to adventure biking. $47.95; www.bike2power.com

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Outdoor Tech Chips

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A universal wireless helmet drop-in audio system for listening to music and taking calls on the slopes. Fits into any helmet with a liner for an integrated, wireless experience. Allows you to control your music or take calls without having to take your helmet off. $129.95; www.outdoortech.com

Beardski Get your beard on this winter with the Beardski. Whether you're going for the jolly Santa look, the classic ZZ Top look, the medieval Merlin look, or even the trendy Rasta look, you're sure to make a statement on the slopes, at parties, tailgating or anywhere else with Beardski. $34.95; www.beardski.com ▲ ▲ ▲

Puma Suede Mid City Shoes

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Offering the same remarkable comfort as the classic Suede, the Mid City adds a basketball-esque twist with a high top. Featuring wool detailing along the upper, the Suede has truly been updated for winter. $75; www.puma.com

Head Graphene Radical REV Tennis Racket Thanks to Graphene, the world’s strongest and lightest material, this racquet offers a truly impressive combination of feel, precision and controllable power. The result is easier depth for players with shorter strokes along with blistering pace for those who like to swing big. $189; www.head.com

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ECOROX Waterproof Speaker

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The most fearless speaker on Earth: 100% waterproof, shockproof, compact, lightweight and it floats, allowing you to add your soundtrack to life’s most extreme adventures. Play music from any Bluetooth enabled devices and answer incoming calls over the built-in speakerphone. $129.99; www.ecoxgear.com WWW.AZSAL.COM

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gear guide

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Puma Sound Chuck Wireless Sport Speaker

A new and innovative Bluetooth wireless speaker, designed with two circular speakers that are connected by a sleek cord. A magnet connection allows it to be portable and accessible no matter what the occasion. $129.99; www.store.apple.com

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Zeal Fargo Goggles

Asics GEL Kinsei 5 Running Shoes

The Fargo proves that style, comfort and protection could all be combined into one amazing pair of smaller-fit goggles . The field of view rivals its larger counterparts and a patented, photochromic lens ensures you won’t ever need to change your lens when the light pulls a 180. $99-$219; www.zealoptics.com

A versatile, light-weight beanie, the Toaster Beanie has a low-profile, technical construction, making it perfect for any winter activity. It's also functional for use under a helmet. $22; www.headsweats.com

Whether you pound the pavement or prefer the track, the GEL-Kinsei 5 running shoes take training and high mileage in stride. Run light on your feet, with an added spring in your step, thanks to the bouncy cushioning delivered by the new FluidRide technology, Asics' latest innovation in midsole design. $199; www.asicsamerica.com

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Headsweats Toaster Beanie

Sorel Men’s Greely Chukka Shoes

With classic chukka styling, premium suede leather and a comfortable herringbone rubber sole, this waterproof ankle boot does double time to keep you dry and protected without sacrificing style. Delivers classic good looks with performance worthy of the Sorel heritage. $120; www.sorel.com

MegaPongo Ready to have a little fun at your next tailgate party? MegaPongo is a smartly designed, durable, all-in-one toss game with everything you need to play beer pong, anywhere, anytime. Comes in a portable, self-contained carrying case. $99; www.megapongo.com

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gear guide

HOME

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Cuisinart Prep 11 Plus Food Processor

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Perfecting the art of food preparation, this Cuisinart food processor is the ideal prep tool for any task. It boasts a revolutionary motor with alternate speeds for perfect mixing, and the large bowl makes it easy to create an entire meal from scratch. $179; www.cuisinart.com

iHome iBN26 Bluetooth Speaker

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Bluetooth-enabled wireless stereo system with built-in speakerphone capability streams digital music from your iPhone, iPad, smart phone and most Bluetooth devices. Reson 8 speaker enclosure and SRS TruBass circuitry deliver astounding clarity, depth and power. $79; www.ihomeaudio.com

Shark Rocket Vacuum This is the only shark you'll want to see circling your house. Powerful suction and amazing cleaning performance in a portable lightweight and maneuverable vacuum. Clean floor-toceiling and everything in between. $159; www.sharkclean.com ▲ ▲ ▲

Privacy Pop Tent Bed

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Kids love sleeping in tents and building "forts," and it just got easier with this innovative tent that fits around a twin, full or queen bed. Create a private space to sleep and relax. Can be easily added and stored away. Also great for college students living in dorms. $129; www.privacypop.com

Whitelabel SoundDew Speaker

Water-resistant Bluetooth speaker ideal for singing in the shower. With tough IPX4 protective housing, it's an ideal music companion for shower, kitchen and outdoors. Don't be fooled by its small size; it delivers surprisingly rich and balanced sound. $49.99; www.whiteleabel.com

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Orthaheel Whistler Slipper

Every homeowner need a super comfy pair of slippers, and the Orthaheel Whistler from Dr. Andrew Weil delivers. It's casual and comfortable, but rugged enough to support your feet while traveling across many unnatural surfaces. $89; www.orthaheelusa.com

IMUSA Lava Rock Molcajete and Pestle Go caveman in the kitchen with this cultural tool that really works. Grind and crush spices, prepare salsas and guacamole, and more. Break out the tortilla chips and let’s have a fiesta! $27.99; www.imusausa.com

UniFlame 15,000 BTUs Gas Tailgating Grill From burgers and dogs to veggies and kabobs, this grill is perfect for outdoor cooking and tailgating. It has a total cooking surface of 294 square inches and conveniently folds up for easy portability. $89; www.uniflame.com

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Infinuvo Hovo 510 Vacuum

Keep your floors clean 24/7 with this powerful robotic cleaner that has a remote control, home charging base, scheduler and virtual boundary blocker. It's good for pet owners and people with allergies. $169; www.infinuvo.com ▲ ▲ ▲

SlingBox 350

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Extend your living room TV experience and watch it anywhere in sparkling 1080p high definition. Connects to a DVR, cable set-top box or satellite receiver, and lets you watch from your smart phone, tablet or laptop. $179; www.slingbox.com

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good eats By I.R. Hunthausen

Beyond Modern Expectations

Modern Margarita 5410 E. High Street, #115 Phoenix, AZ 85054 (602) 795-8111 www.modernmargarita.com

Fork and Dagger’s Modern Margarita is giving Mexican fusion enthusiasts a shot to the cerebellum

▲ ▲ ▲ TOP: Modern Margarita's El Plato Shrimp, Chicken, Steak Skewers (2 Each), Onion Rings, Cheese Quesadilla, Sauces BOTTOM: Modern's lavish patio setting.

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WHAT IS A MODERN MARGARITA? Is it a modernist margarita — one retrofit with unique flavors that mock the mid-20th century sensation of tequila and Cointreau? A margarita with ingredients like watermelon that is presented in the colorful guise of other famed beverages, like the vibrant red of the daiquiri or the tequila sunrise's brilliant yellow. Perhaps the founders of Modern Margarita had a post-modern edge, trying to deconstruct the margarita to its very essence of refreshment and flavor. Then again who is looking for a cerebral experience with their margaritas and tacos? At the very least you're experience at Modern Margarita will be visceral. Starting with the décor, Modern lacks the expected cantina aesthetic and has replaced it with a flashy industrial chic that combines engaging color with charismatic lighting to manifest a clean, stylish atmosphere that exudes a high energy vibe. The open-air concept adds quite a bit of sensual ether to the experience. A bit of breeze across your face and the right amount of sun on your back stirs the pot of sociability. Located amidst the storefronts and eateries that lay below the multi story business of High Street in North Scottsdale, Modern Margarita is the place to be for those who fancy sensual subtly with their flare — and great tastes and

hydration of course. With some 40 plus tequilas to choose from, the bartending chemists of Modern Margarita have no problem concocting the perfect cocktail. Even the most discriminating tequila taste buds will find satisfaction here. For those seeking a Modern classic, the Casa or Rustic Margarita will quench the need for that one-of-a-kind, salty tang. Making it new, the Serrano Pepper Infused Mango Margarita and the award winning Watermelon Honey Margarita, on presentation alone, would have even Ezra Pound smirking to the last drop — every ingredient serves its purpose in adding a unique and satisfying zest to the classic beverage. The Watermelon Honey Margarita’s secret is its simplicity: a clever blend of fresh watermelon juice with a splash of honey syrup and a twist of lime for good measure, all blended to perfection with the finest reposado. Like their signature drinks, Modern Margarita’s eats are inspired by the traditions of Mexican cooking but have become an invention of their own, where guests are sure to discover flavors and satisfaction unbeknownst to them prior to that first sensational bite. With an intense menagerie of unique dishes it isn’t easy to try just one — so don’t. Start your journey with Modern’s award winning pork or chicken tacos. The latter are grilled to savory perfection with

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▲ TOP LEFT: Modern's award-winning Chicken Street Tacos TOP RIGHT: A unique blend of wild aesthetics and practical settings BOTTOM LEFT: Lavish pork sliders BOTTOM RIGHT: Modern's award-winning Watermelon Honey Margarita and company.

Only a few short miles from the TPC, Modern Margarita is a killer post-Phoenix Open spot to hit. Modern Margarita offers its guests fresh food, fresh air and fresh tequila in an upbeat, up and coming hot spot in the North Valley. ▲

None of these dishes are complete without a hearty supply of Modern’s homemade guacamole and salsas, which are designed with a variety of South American ingredients, including ricotta peppers, ajioles and in-house pickled onions. Only a few months from their one-year anniversary, having opened their doors in March of last year, Modern Margarita has positioned itself for great and exciting things to come. A quick trip to Modern’s website or Facebook page will let you sign up for their mailing list and put you in the front row for the celebration to come.

Special thanks to Rich Rush, general manager at Modern Margarita.

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an ample serving of Modern’s own roasted red pepper salsa, cilantro, onions and cabbage wrapped in either a flour or corn tortilla. Modern Margarita’s top sellers, however, are the carne asada tacos — marinated and grilled steak that drips with a sweet and salty blend that can only be enhanced with a shot of Modern’s house reposado. Chef Mark Dow’s creativity spawned the marvelous pork and chicken tacos that won first and third place at this year’s Arizona Taco Festival. If you prefer your tacos with less turf and more surf, snag the fried fish tacos.

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By Chris Kaplan

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the

Greatest Show on Grass RETURNS The Waste Management Phoenix Open in Scottsdale kicks off on January 27

15,000 fans, one famously exciting hole

he Greatest Show on Grass, a.k.a. the Waste Management Phoenix Open, returns to TPC Scottsdale Jan. 27 through Feb. 2, 2014. The 2013 tournament champion Phil Mickelson is back to defend his title after an exciting week where an incredible 20 tournament records were either tied or broken. Mickelson broke four records himself and tied eight others, including joining Arnold Palmer, Gene Littler and Mark Calcavecchia as three-time tournament champions. Mickelson’s remarkable 28-under-par total also helped the field break the lowest scoring average record three times during the week – round one (69.015), round four (68.527) and the overall cumulative scoring average (68.954). It all started during round one when Mickelson narrowly missed carding the sixth 59 in PGA Tour history when he lipped out his birdie putt on the 18th hole to shoot 60 – the lowest opening round in tournament history. It wasn’t all because of Mickelson, though. Thanks to the tremendous support from the local community, in addition to Mickelson’s record-setting performance, the tournament also set attendance records during Friday’s second round (121,901) and Saturday’s third round (179,022). Mickelson will look to continue his great play from the 2013 season, where he was one of only a handful of players with multiple wins, including a major – the 2013 Open Championship. At the 2014 Waste Management Phoenix Open, look for Mickelson to defend his title against

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Defending Champion Phil Mickelson several PGA Tour stars such as Brandt Snedeker, Rickie Fowler, Bubba Watson and many others as they battle it out for their share of the $6.2 million purse. On Feb. 2, 2014, a new champion will raise the Waste Management Phoenix Open trophy, but he won’t be the only winner of the event. The true winners each and every year at the Waste Management Phoenix Open are the local economy and the hundreds of Arizona charities the tournament supports. The Waste Management Phoenix Open annually pumps more than $220 million into Arizona’s economy, according to a 2012 economic impact study conducted by Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business. Economic impact in sports can be defined as the net change in an economy resulting from a sporting event. The impact comes from visitors’ spending, organizational spending, employment opportunities and tax revenue. For example, fans attending from out of town spent millions of dollars for lodging, food, entertainment and other types of goods and services during their stays in Arizona. Let’s also not forget the expenditures by The Thunderbirds, the PGA Tour and other organizations required to stage the event, which generated a demand for millions of dollars’ worth of various goods and services. Best yet is the fact that the most recent economic impact report of more than $220 million represents a 23 percent increase from a similar study performed in 2007; a trend tournament officials hope will continue. While the local economy gets a significant boost as a result of the tournament, so do hundreds of local Arizona charities. Last year, the Waste Management Phoenix Open and its hosts, The Thunderbirds, distributed more than $6.2 million to local charities through proceeds raised from the 2013 event. Charities such as Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Homeward Bound, Special Olympics of Arizona, The First Tee of Phoenix and more are just a few of the charities that have benefited over the years. While last year’s donation was a staggering number, it’s only a small portion of the overall charitable contributions the tournament has made in its 79-year history. Since its inception dating back to 1932, the event has raised more than $85 million for charity with more than $60 million coming since October 2003 when the tournament first brought on a title sponsor. The event only happens one week a year, but the impact lasts a lifetime for the organizations it supports. “Raising tens of millions of dollars for Arizona charities has been a tremendous benefit of hosting a professional golf tournament,” said Tom King, a member of The Thunderbirds and the 2014 tournament © GENE LOWER

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chairman of the Waste Management Phoenix Open. “The community’s support of our nearly 80-year-old golf tournament is staggering. It is such an honor to be a part of something so worthwhile.” So, what’s new at the 2014 Waste Management Phoenix Open? Beginning in 2014, the PGA TOUR will implement a host of new security measures that will be in effect during the 2014 tournament. Much of the TOUR’s new security policy will be implemented behind the scenes and will have virtually no impact on fan experience with the exception of a few key changes. But, if you’ve been to an NFL game recently you’re already in the know as the PGA TOUR has adopted many of their same policies. As you begin to plan for the 2014 Waste Management Phoenix Open, please note that metal detecting wands will be used at each entrance gate on everyone including volunteers, spectators, staff and media; bag inspections will also be performed at all entrance gates (opaque bags are not to exceed 6”x6”x6” with clear tote bags not to exceed 12”x6”x12”); and no outside food or beverages may enter the tournament except for sealed bottled water and medical or infant needs. The tournament will also feature Tweet-to-Screen capabilities on several of the digital scoreboards positioned

Rickie Fowler eyes a putt on 16

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throughout the course. It’s here where fans can interact with the tournament via Twitter and follow their dialogue live on site encouraging other fans to participate as well. And don’t forget to get in on the action at the 16th hole as The Thunderbirds and Waste Management have a surprise up their sleeves they plan to announce shortly that will not only be available to those attending the event, but also to those watching the action unfold from the comfort of their homes. Spectators will notice an increased amount of skyboxes on both the famous 16th hole and elsewhere on property. The 16th hole, for example, will now have a total of 197 skyboxes, an increase of 20 skyboxes from the 2013 event. And speaking of hospitality, for the second year, tournament officials are planning a special venue for active and retired military personnel and their families affectionately called The Patriots Outpost. Located just off the 18th fairway, The Patriots Outpost includes hosted food and beverages for the men and women (and their families) who selflessly protect our country. And when the sun sets at TPC Scottsdale, the party heats up at the Coors Light Birds Nest. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 3:30-10 p.m. of tournament week, the Coors Light Birds Nest features new artists every year,

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Crowds swell during the third round

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person who wears green on Saturday, tournament host, The Thunderbirds, will donate “green” to three charities including Arizona Recycling Coalition, the Arizona Chapter of Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) and Waste Not. Based on an online voting contest held on the tournament’s Facebook page from November through early January, one charity will receive 50 percent of the funds, another will receive 35 percent and the third will receive 15 percent. In fact, in the three years since taking over as title sponsor, Waste Management has quickly turned the “Greatest Show on Grass” into the “Greenest Show on Grass” by incorporating a tournament-wide recycling and waste reduction program. Now in year three, Waste Management’s Zero Waste Challenge is aimed at controlling the materials brought into the event and educating vendors and patrons about the proper disposal of materials, so that eventually zero waste is sent to local landfills. During the program’s second year, the 2013 Waste Management Phoenix Open successfully diverted 100 percent of waste from local landfills — a feat that hasn’t been duplicated at any major sporting event. ▲

and this year’s acts are some of the best yet. Crowd favorite O.A.R. will kick off the party on Wednesday night, country star Jake Owen, who recently released a new album, Days of Gold, will play on Thursday night, Weezer will have the crowd singing on Friday night and MetalHead will play on Saturday, the final night. While the music each night may be different, one thing still remains the same – the Coors Light Birds Nest is THE PLACE TO BE in Scottsdale during the Waste Management Phoenix Open. While the actual Waste Management Phoenix Open golf tournament will be played Thursday through Sunday (Jan. 30Feb. 2), there will still be plenty of things to see and do at TPC Scottsdale all week long. Many of the PGA Tour pros will play morning practice rounds on Monday and Tuesday of tournament week. There are also other special activities that will feature PGA Tour professionals, including the Kyocera Pro-Am on Monday, the R.S. Hoyt Jr. Family Foundation Dream Day and CBS Outdoor Special Olympics Open on Tuesday and the ever-popular Annexus Pro-Am (formerly the Silver Pro-Am) on Wednesday. On Saturday, Feb. 1, the tournament is inviting everyone to participate in the fourth annual GREEN OUT. Waste Management and The Thunderbirds encourage players and tournament attendees to wear green in support of the many green/sustainability initiatives that the company is doing to make the event not only the greenest tournament on the PGA Tour, but one of the most charitable. For every

Jan. 27 through Feb. 2 is the week and The Greatest and Greenest Show on Grass is the place to be. For more information or tickets to the 2014 Waste Management Phoenix Open, visit www.wmphoenixopen.com.

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With an excellent basketball pedigree, University of Arizona guard NICK JOHNSON is making a name for himself in Tucson

ALL in the F

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By Katie Snyder PHOTOS BY GENE LOWER

NICK JOHNSON ALWAYS KNEW WHAT HE WAS DESTINED FOR. The third-year University of Arizona guard grew up surrounded by family members who had a clear passion for basketball. “Basketball was always a big part of my life growing up,” said Johnson. “From watching highlights of my uncle play to seeing my dad listed alongside legendary dunkers Wilt Chamberlain, Dr. J., and Michael Jordan, I knew it would always be a big part of my life in some way, shape or form.” And it was. Johnson comes from a long lineage of athletes. As the son of Joey Johnson, professional basketball player, legendary dunker and former Arizona State University star and the nephew of Dennis Johnson, a five-time all-star who played 13 seasons in the NBA with Seattle, Phoenix and Boston, it didn’t take long for Johnson to end up on a court with a ball in his hands. “Basketball is in his blood,” said father Joey Johnson. “He’s a proto-type; he’s exactly what I was, if not more.” But the journey from neighborhood ball player to college basketball superstar has been anything but linear for the basketball prodigy. Johnson’s basketball odyssey started at a young age, in Ahwatukee, where he lived with his mother Michelle Moyand and his brother Chris Johnson. With his father living elsewhere, Johnson took every opportunity growing up to see his father in Los Angeles and learn about the game, running basketball drills and improving his skills. “It was about just being a complete player,” said Johnson’s father. “From jump shots to ball handling skills, I wanted him to be better than me.” The work paid off. It wasn’t long before his talent on the court and leaping ability quickly garnered attention from other players, coaches and even some universities. In just the eighth grade, he caught the eye of Arizona State University coaches, who offered him a scholarship while still playing at Kyrene Middle School in Tempe. “That’s when everyone started recognizing me; even if they weren’t basketball fans,” said Johnson. By the time the budding basketball star reached high school, there was no turning back.

FAMILY

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“A lot of people ask me where I get my talent,” he said. “I was born this way. I credit my dad for giving me my leaping ability and athleticism and allowing me to concentrate on other parts of my game.” Under the guidance of his father and support from his mother, Johnson would become a standout player during both his freshman and sophomore years at Gilbert Highland High School, before leaving home to play elite-level high school basketball at Findlay Prep in Las Vegas, Nev. “Going to Findlay Prep really got me ready for playing college ball,” said Johnson. “I learned to play point guard and faced new challenges every day, all of which I believe have made me the player I am today.” By the time Johnson was nearing the end of his high school career, colleges all over the country were after the ultra-athletic guard. He was followed by a flock of college coaches, including those from University of Kansas, University of Southern California, Wake Forest University, Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, just to name a few, before ultimately committing to the U of A in 2010. “It was a tough decision,” said Johnson. “But after talking to my dad and coach Miller, I knew it was the right fit.” According to UA head coach Sean Miller, Johnson was unlike any other player he had ever seen. He worked hard and put in the extra time leading up to his first season to perfect his craft, putting up an extra 800 shots in addition to daily workouts. But it wasn’t just the drive that has made Johnson stand out above the rest from year to year; it was his versatility, talent level and leadership on the court. In his first year, he went on to help the UA team to its best start since 1999, holding impressive numbers and being named to the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team. “My athletic ability really helped me a lot that first year,” says Johnson. “Other players had to rely on getting a routine down where I was able to rely solely on athletic ability and have since slowly continued to build my craft and learn what I need to do to get better on both the offense and defense.”

• Chris Johnson, the older brother of Arizona guard Nick Johnson, joined the Arizona Wildcats as a walk-on for the 20132014 season. • Johnson's dad Joey once held the world record for dunking on the highest basket at 11 feet, 7 inches. • Johnson received honorable mention on Bleacher Report's Top 10 Dunkers in NCAA Basketball earlier this year. • Johnson recently won the Pac-12 Player of the Week Award at the NIT Season-Tip Off championship. • Johnson has a 47-inch vertical jump.

“Everyone dreams of one day making it to the NBA, but I know that first I have to HONOR THE PROCESS AND WORK HARD every single day and take it one game at a time.”

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In the off season Johnson continued to work on his skill set, concentrating on his areas of weakness in hopes of becoming an all-around better player in the up-coming season. “I wanted to get better,” Johnson said. “I didn’t work as hard as I could have and that showed; I’ve put in work and this year, I’ve really made strides in my game.” Now a junior at the UA, Johnson has improved in nearly every statistical category. But his biggest step forward has been a new level of maturity and leadership on the court. “Nick truly embodies all of the qualities that we really try to live by in our program and what we want in a player,” said Miller. “Each year he improves and adds to his role and his game.” So far this year, Johnson has helped the UA Wildcats get off to an impressive start in the Pac-12 and they hope to continue the positive momentum going into 2014. “He’s a great asset to have on the team and will have a lot to do with our success this year, because to me, he’s the natural leader of our team and certainly one of the most talented players out there,” said Miller. “If he continues to play well, there’s no reason he couldn’t end up in the NBA.” Others seem to agree. According to ESPN’s NBA Draft Tracker, Johnson is a potential prospect for next summer’s draft. And, while Johnson hasn’t said whether he’ll enter the NBA draft next summer, all eyes will be on him in 2014. “Everyone dreams of one day making it to the NBA, but I know that first I have to honor the process and work hard every single day and take it one game at a time,” said Johnson. “For now, I will continue to improve my game and provide the energy for our team; giving us the momentum we need to get through this season and hopefully to the Pac-12 Championship.”

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By I.R. Hunthausen

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MADDER BADDER Than You’ve Seen Before LEWIS BLACK kicks off the New Year with a tour sure to knock the stupid right outta ya THROUGH RHETORIC AS FRESH AS THE MORNING SNOW, Lewis Black plows his message of optimism stuck in the bowls of social depravity into the intellectually starved, fear mongered hearts and minds of audiences across the country, and the world. With a wit sharp enough to give Gillette a run for its money, there isn’t a whole lot Lewis Black won’t say or do. This is a guy who, when his first run on stage was going south, was bailed out by his cocker spaniel who rushed the stage, giving him the opportunity, through paw in hand mimicry, to show his audience how dogs would likely “screw their pooch.” Today Black has refined his act to be a one “animal” show focused on opening the eyes of any dozy bandwagon types who’s idea of partisanship is the side that is giving out the most free stuff. Yes, gay rights, war, lack of common sense in the American people, and simple stupidity are all in his latest act, but abortion remains the fan favorite. “You can hear every asshole in the room tighten up when I say it,” Black said in a recent phone interview. Black’s humor isn’t as dark as you might think, however. Where many comedians confuse pessimism with originality, Black forges his path of seeing the light within the tragedies of the human experience. Sure the path is dripping with sarcasm, and if it wasn’t for satire the journey along it would be indescribable, but Black is the optimist. “The light is the American people,” Black explained. We are resilient. When trying times rain down and the shit storm hits we step up and take care of one another, and that is an ideal Black holds dear. “Life is traumatic enough. If you don’t have people to buffer you, you’re fucked,” Black said.

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"[Crazy] is my strong suit. If I’m crazier than the audience it’s hard for them to be crazier than me." FAST FACTS

• What Lewis Black lover or hater hasn’t at least wondered what makes him so irate? It’s simple, “The stupidity we continue to display as a people and a country,” according to Black. • Black could have played the piano, but he explained, “my teacher had arthritis.” • Black likes to relax behind the tee-box and on the greens. • Talk about a man dedicated to his craft: “If I’m not doing what I’m doing, I’m talking about what I do or reading about what I do” Black said. • Black describes his first play as being “about a guy and a girl, and the girl needed an abortion. It was a real upbeat piece.” • Black’s mother was a teacher. “Kids couldn’t do anything in my mother’s class ‘cause she had ‘em nailed.” Perhaps she inspired his role as wayward professor Ben Lewis in 2006’s Accepted.

Lewis Black “The Rant Is Due” Friday, February 28 at 8pm Saturday, March 1 at 8 p.m. Orpheum Theatre www.orpheum-theater.com 203 W. Adams Street Phoenix, AZ 85003 ▲

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Naysayers of Black’s brand need to step from under the shroud of corn-pone opinions and into the fresh air of clarity. “When you live in a bubble, you lose sight of common sense and practicality,” he said when asked about how people become sedated, jaded, followers of whoever we put in charge. “The people in power have learned nothing from those who came before them.” With so much multi-media being beamed at us on a daily basis, comedians are in a golden age for calling out human error on account of oblivion and misplaced resolve. As long as the lines for Black Friday door-busters are longer than the lines at the local voting station there needs to be a Lewis Black to give us a good slap in the face. Growing up close to Washington, D.C. Black was able to readily see the system he now critiques. “I got to see [the government] A, when it was working and B, when we had real leaders.” So, how did he make his observations funny? Born in 1948 and raised in Silver Springs, Md., Black didn’t beeline it to comedy. In fact, he got his start as a playwright. While it wasn’t exactly the, “Happy go lucky, Christian-based comedy that’s made me a star,” Black said. It was enough of a passion to drive him to earn an undergraduate degree in the art from Chapel Hill and follow it up with an MFA from Yale. After some serious perseverance in the craft, Black had his first play published recently. “It only took forty or fifty years to find out what it was all about.” It was during his college years, at Chapel Hill specifically, that Black found his niche for comedy — sort of. Inspired by the comedic likes of George Carlin, Richard Pryor and influenced by such actors as Shelley Berman and even plays like "A Thousand Clowns" by Herb Gardner, Black took a shot at stand-up. “I started at Chapel Hill — did it about six times. I had a friend that had a band so I opened for them.” Once in D.C., Black dabbled on and off with comedy, “I really didn’t think I would end up doing it.” The big question is, what made Black go from playwright and occasional comedian to the Black we know today—the one who looks like he’s on the verge of mental breakdown? “I stupidly didn’t realize what made me funny was when I was angry.” The logical progression from there is, if one is angry when mad, what will hysterics yield? As in most cases, mania, real or contrived, leads folks to think you’re crazy. “[Crazy] is my strong suit. If I’m crazier than the audience it’s hard for them to be crazier than me.” It’s not a rouse though. Black believes in his message on stage. He takes it with him and is happy to share it. “If I’m in a position where I’m talking to college students, I don’t pull my punches. I’m pretty straightforward on shit.” Keep that “shit” straightforward Lewis, we love you for it. I’ll leave you where Black began with me over the phone. There was a short breath on the other line followed by a “hello,” to which I replied in kind adding a “how’s it going?” Black said, “It gets better every day.” ▲

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Glass Mena g

Chihuly'sÂ vibrant filled vessel, Sonoran Boat (above), reflects the evening while floating in the desert oasis. The Polyvitro Chandelier (left) and Tower sculpture below) brighten the middle of the gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cactus and succulent galleries.

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By Stacey Lane and Jaden Washington PHOTOS BY WILSON W. WYATT III

Desert Botanical Garden's 'Chihuly in the Garden' is a spectacular display by renowned glass sculptor DALE CHIHULY

CHIHULY IN THE GARDEN DETAILS WHEN: The exhibit runs through Sunday, May 18. There are three slots each day to view the exhibit: 8 a.m. - noon; noon - 4 p.m.; 4 - 8 p.m. WHERE: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix ADMISSION: $10-$22. Special nighttime events, such as Chihuly After Dark, take place Saturdays, March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; and April 5, 12 and 19. INFO: www.dbg.org; 480-941-1225

A COMMON REFRAIN AMONG FILM CRITICS is that a sequel rarely lives up to the expectations created by an original work. Artists, regardless of their genre, are confronted with the same expectations and demands from a public that insists each masterpiece be followed with equal greatness. If you are among those who subscribe to the belief that such efforts, when held to the standard of excellence garnered in the original, usually fail, a trip to the Desert Botanical Garden will shatter those beliefs. However, please don't use the word "shattered" when passing through the enchanted world of delicate sculptured glass currently on display at "Chihuly in the Garden." Like much of the desert flora on permanent display at the Desert Botanical Garden, these items of whimsy and fantasy are works of art, as precious and rare as the most endangered species found in the garden. Five years after Dale Chihuly's record-setting 2008 exhibition, the Seattle based artist is back with 21 new and re-imagined sculptures. Not every sculpture is making its debut, however, as frequent visitors will recognize the three yucca inspired shapes which comprise "Desert Towers," near the entrance to the grounds. Purchased by the community following the earlier Chihuly exhibition, these green, glass monoliths greet visitors preparing to experience Chihuly’s work yet again. In the planning of this exhibit, which started shortly after the close of the original, both the Chihuly team and the Desert Botanical Garden team sought to continue a theme that highlights the juxtaposition of delicate, decorative glass with the perceived harshness of cacti and desert flora. “The terrain itself is challenging,” said Britt Cornett, head of exhibitions at Chihuly Studio. “But we love this because it makes it a richer experience.” Some of the highlights of the new exhibit include the "Scarlet Asymmetrical Tower” and “Yellow Asymmetrical Tower," which illuminate the path inside, beckoning visitors to the newly created sculptures. One of these is the whimsical "Red Reeds" sculpture, made up of tubular shaped glass objects that seem to sprout from a patch of prickly pair cactus and mimic the shapes and silhouette of the organ pipe cactus in the background. "Chihuly's work is all very organic," Cornett stated. Continuing through the garden, visitors will discover Chihuly's vibrantly filled vessel, "Sonoran Boat," floating in a reflecting pond filled with ice blue glass cubes. Then in the garden's atrium sits a collection of spheres and shapes fused together to form "The Polyvitro Chandelier and Tower," which is unique in both its composition and use of materials.

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From the first exhibit in 2008, Desert Towers (right) remains at the entrance of the Desert Botanical Garden.

Blue Crystals (left) accompany the Sonoran Boat in the oasis.

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• Chihuly dubbed one of his materials Polyvitro; it is a lightweight material that mimics glass and is exhibited in "Polyvitro Chandelier and Tower," currently on display. • Chihuly is credited with revolutionizing the American studio glass movement and elevating the perception of the glass medium from craft to fine art. He is renowned for his ambitious architectural installations around the world in historic cities, museums and gardens. • Chihuly’s work is included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Corning Museum of Glass. • In 1976, a car accident, coupled with a later bodysurfing incident in 1979, permanently sidelined Chihuly from blowing glass himself, which lead him to hire and teach an elite team of designers, installers and artists who continue to help him realize his vision. • The contract for the new exhibit was for 19 sculptures, but visitors get some extra eye candy with 21 sculptures, because it also includes the permanent "Desert Towers" installation from the first exhibit.

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The Scarlet Asymmetrical Tower and Yellow Asymmetrical Tower (above) illuminate the path for visitors.

"Our Phoenix gardens has been chosen twice for good reason," said Elaine McGinn, Desert Botanical Garden's director of planning and exhibits. "The first show was an enormous success for both the garden and Mr. Chihuly. His art looked magical nestled among the cactus and desert landscape." Although the exhibition is easy on the eyes, it was difficult and time consuming to assemble. "The neon panels that are on the Garden Butte had to be hand carried up the steep and rocky hill one at a time and it took a team of four to carry each one up," McGinn said. "‘The Red Sun’ was the most timely to install. With approximately 2,000 individual pieces of glass, it took a team of four over three days to install it." The placement of the sculptures throughout the garden is critical and is given much consideration by the Chihuly Studio and the garden’s team. Planning for this exhibit started soon after the first one, because the preparation and installation process is extremely meticulous. "We don’t set too many parameters," McGinn added. "Our first consideration is to protect our collections, and we share any concerns we have at the initial walk through." Gaze at these desert diamonds and beautiful landscape this spring at a Private Reception and Public Lecture with Artist Dale Chihuly scheduled for February 28 from 5:30 - 8 p.m. Or jive with Chihuly After Dark on Saturdays from 8 p.m. to midnight, March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, and April 5, 12 and 19 with a live DJ and cash bar.

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RACING AZSAL

FAST FACTS

• The first time he watched a USAC National Midget race, he was hooked. “Watching the open-wheel cars get around the track as fast as they did — that’s when I figured out I wanted to be a racecar driver.” • In 2010, he survived a serious midget car dirt wreck when his car flipped 15 times, leaving him with broken ribs, a broken collarbone, and a punctured lung. Five weeks later, he was back in his car. • He isn’t a poster boy model for the previous generation of NASCAR drivers. Instead of vinyl and 8-tracks, his iPod is filled an eclectic mix of sounds he’s pretty sure his fellow drivers have never heard of, making him a pioneer in a Twitter-crazed era of high-speed communications. • “I’m definitely a little different,” he admits, adding, “I think it’s good to be different, to be unique, and stand out from the rest of the crowd.” • Bowman started his NASCAR career ranked just inside the Top 50 and is now just outside the Top 10. It’s a bit ironic that he nearly failed his driver education course in high school.

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By Lee Allen

up the Ranks NASCAR rookie and Tucson native ALEX BOWMAN is revving up the racing world AT 7 YEARS OLD, when most youngsters are still trying to

Nationwide Series at 19, competing against names like Danica

master staying upright on a two-wheeled bicycle, Alex

Patrick and racing at tracks like Talladega and Darlington, only

Bowman was racing quarter midget cars on short tracks in

a year after graduating from high school?”

Arizona and California.

His father and one-man management group, Sean, calls him

He’s 20 now and has moved on to bigger (and faster)

“The Best Kept Secret in NASCAR.” “It’s unusual for anyone with

things. But not before winning nine Quarter Midget National

Alex’s background to get this opportunity so quickly, but this kid

Championships and 165 quarter midget feature races, as well

is different. It’s definitely a needle-in-a-haystack business. There

as the U.S. Auto Club National Focus Midget Championship and

are about 80 full-time drivers at the upper levels of NASCAR, mil-

capturing the 2009 National Midget Rookie of the Year honor.

lions more dreaming about racing those cars for a living.”

He made his transition to full-bodied stock cars in 2010 as

Money trumps talent in racing today and we don’t have

a 17-year-old development driver. In 2011, he became the first

the money, so Alex is doing it on talent.” Arizona Daily Star

Automobile Racing Club of America Racing Series driver to post

sports reporter Greg Hansen termed it, “Chapter one of what

two victories in his first two starts, ultimately capturing the

could be a long racing career.”

K&N Pro Series East Rookie of the Year trophy. In 2012,

Planning for chapter two is already underway, with Alex

Bowman won ARCA Rookie of the Year and figured it was again

talking to potential sponsors for 2014. “We’re always talking

time to move onward and upward, making his NASCAR

about the future,” says Sean. “The value of NASCAR affiliation

Nationwide Series debut.

is incredible, but not cheap. We’re hoping to find some local

In January 2013, it was announced that he would be

companies to come on board so we can race under the Arizona

running the full Nationwide Series season for RAB Racing and

banner, companies like Innovative Green Technologies out of

competing for Rookie of the Year honors. At the end of the

Scottsdale who sought Alex out because they wanted Arizona

season, in mid-November 2013, he was runner-up for the rook-

representation. They want to get their name out there and

ie title after competing in some 30 races. “With all the experi-

grow their company and this sponsorship affiliation is a good

ence he’s gathered, it’s easy to forget he’s still just 20 years

way to do that.”

old,” reported NASCAR.com. “Though he’s just a rookie, he shows the polish of a veteran.”

Despite his 2013 successes with winnings over $792,000, Sean says of his son, Alex, “I’m proud he hasn’t let his achieve-

And the way he acts is the way he thinks. “I’m dedicated

ments go to his head. Although he lives, eats, and breathes

and focused,” he says. “Once I’m inside a racecar and strapped

racing, he’s well grounded. I’m impressed at not only how well

in, nothing else matters. We have all the pieces. And if I do my

he drives the car, but how well he interacts with his fans,

job correctly, we can win races.”

especially the kids. He’s patient and analytical, just happy to be in the sport, and appreciative of where he’s at. All he wants is

petition, he called it “living a dream,” and asked in an Arizona

a chance to win races at the highest level, and he won’t be

Daily Star article, “Who imagines they’ll be racing in the NASCAR

satisfied until he does.”

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Still a teenager when he made the climb into heavier com-

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golf

By Jeff Locke

Great Golf Grills Golf courses have stepped up their game with restaurants and grills that feature renowned chefs, better fare and more options

EAGLE MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB: THE GRILLE

RAVEN GOLF CLUB – PHOENIX: GRILL 36

Headlined by a talented team of chefs, the Trophy Room Restaurant offers a culinary experience crafted from finest ingredients supplied by only the best local purveyors. Contemporary region flavors collide with traditional clubhouse favorites resulting in a number mouthwatering choices ranging from the epic Boss Burger to the Karsten Cobb Salad. “The guys do a wonderful job with the menu,” said Daryl Crawford, director of golf at ASU Karsten. “They treat a diverse group of guests to their unique twist on many of the longtime staples we all grew up with — only better. And like true professionals, they make it look easy.” Open daily from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m., the Trophy Room is a great choice for anyone in the neighborhood who is looking to enjoy exceptional quality in a one-of-a-kind setting. It’s also ideal for group gatherings with several choices of private and outdoor space to available to accommodate events of all shapes and sizes. For more information, visit www.asukarsten.com or call 480.921.8070.

Perched high in the McDowell Mountains, the Grille at Eagle Mountain Golf Club overlooks the entire southeast Valley of the Sun. The incredible views and great fare make it one of the best golf grills for any type of special occasion, not to mention a postround cold beer. “People are blown away by the views from up here,” said Chef Carmelo Chairez. “The floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining room really maximize the impact.” Open daily for breakfast, lunch, afternoon appetizers and drinks, the Grille also offers a handful of special events sprinkled throughout the seasons such as Border Disorder, a weekly all-you-can-eat buffet, or the four-course flavor of the romantic Wine Dinners. Guests also get the best of both worlds at the Grille’s Nine & Dine events; it’s time to grove and grub on Blues and Que night, or catch the latest flic on the event lawn after chowing down at the buffet on Dinner and Drive-In Night. For more information, visit www.eaglemtn.com or call 480.816.1234.

Located in the heart of Phoenix at the foothills of South Mountain, Raven Golf Club’s newly renovated Grill 36 offers a daily roundup of breakfast, lunch and the best happy hour this side of the Valley. From “3 to 6” on weekdays, guests and golfers alike are treated to half-price appetizers and great drink specials. It’s the kind of place where guests feel at home whether in pinstripes or polo shirts. “Grill 36 definitely draws a diverse crowd,” said General Manager, Derek Crawford. “On an average afternoon, you’ll see a two-top of local business people meeting for drinks next to a foursome of golfers from the Midwest, while a party of 200 is getting ready to celebrate a wedding in the event pavilion.” Armed with a delicious array of American favorites — wings, sandwiches, burgers, wraps, salads and more — Grill 36 tops it all off with the Raven’s refreshing brand of old-school customer service that never goes out of style. For more information, visit www.ravenphx.com or call 602.243.3636.

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ASU KARSTEN GOLF COURSE: TROPHY ROOM RESTAURANT

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gear guide

GOLF

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Nike Method Mod 60 Putter

The Nike Method MOD putter has a precision CNC milled face with Polymetal Groove technology to generate a more true and consistent forward roll at impact. This prevents the ball from skidding or hopping, with the result that putts will start true to your intended line. $299; www.nikegolf.com

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Bolle Bolt Golf Sunglasses

SensoGlove The world’s first digital golf glove, SensoGlove has built-in digital sensors that continuously read grip pressure to ensure a consistently accurate, smooth and powerful golf swing. Made of high quality cabretta leather. $89; www.sensoglove.com

Bolle's technologically-advanced, high-performance Photo V3 golf lenses were engineered specifically to highlight subtleties of the golf course. The fashionable Bolt style delivers complete UV protection and optical clarity. $149; www.bolle.com ▲ ▲ ▲

Ogio Nebula Bag

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This ultra-lightweight (3.8-pounds) stand bag has a six-way organizational top that measures ten inches to house all equipment. Eight total pockets and an insulated beverage holster keep everything players need for 18 holes within reach. $139; www.ogio.com

Shock Doctor Active Impact Insole

A round of 18 holes can be a pain on feet, ankles and knees. A supportive insole stabilizes the foot, absorbs impacts and can help prevent pain and joint fatigue. This insole is specifically engineered for longer walks. $29.99; www.shockdoctor.com

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gear guide

GOLF

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Golf Buddy WT3 Watch

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Preloaded with more than 36,000 golf courses, this GPS watch provides you with all the information you need for success on the course. Features target and hazard information, pin placement and a digital scorecard at your fingertips when you hit the course. $169; www.gpsgolfbuddy.com

Golf-X-Cube

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The ultimate compact golf training tool, Golf-X-Cube visually guides you for the perfect swing. Fits perfectly in a golf bag. $39.90; www.golf-x-cube.com

AUR Golf Polos AUR's Hanauma Bay Collection consists of vibrant colors with clean and modern designs inspired by the ocean waters off the coast of Oahu. AUR Active fabrics are moisture wicking, fast drying and super comfortable. $40-65; www.aurgolf.com

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Sunice Edge Jacket

When temperatures drop, zip up a Sunice golf jacket with Gore-Tex and Paclite fabrics for extra comfort, dryness and warmth in the harshest of conditions. Features bold colors, pro-trim waist cinching system, in-pocket ball cleaner and a fit designed to elevate your performance. $360; www.sunice.com

Club Crown ClubCrown is an innovative and exciting way to personalize and improve the look and style of any driver, fairway wood or hybrid. Installed on the clubhead's crown, it offers golfers a chance to show their school spirit at a reasonable price. $39.99; www.clubcrown.com ▲

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wheels By Curt Blakeney

Country Club Comfort A smooth ride, posh interior, and a beefy V-8 engine make the Hyundai Equus a contender in the luxury sedan market

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With the Equus, you're getting incredible bang for the buck in the premium performance category, inching ever closer to the BMW 7-series, Lexus LS, Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S-class.

THE HYUNDAI EQUUS WAS ONE OF THE FIRST luxury vehicles we reviewed in 2013, and with a few mild exterior and interior touch-ups, as well as even more standard tech and safety features, we love it even more in 2014. With the Equus, you're getting incredible bang for the buck in the premium performance category, inching ever closer to the BMW 7-series, Lexus LS, Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S-class. Hyundai makes shopping for the Equus a snap: there are two trim levels: Signature

and Ultimate. We test drove the Signature, which is impressively well-equipped: owners will enjoy 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels with staggered-width performance tires, opulent leather seating, wood trim interior, lane departure warning system, 100,000mile powertrain warranty, pre-collision warning system, nine air bags, smart cruise control with automatic braking, multi-view camera system that provides a 360-degree view around the entire vehicle, and many other bells and whistles.

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Ultimate version offers a DVD system and twin 9.3-inch monitors that are nestled nicely into the seatbacks. Overall, the refreshed 2014 Hyundai Equus radiates luxury from every angle, adding some technological enhancements and performance upgrades that boost an already lavish package. In a crowded field of luxury sedans, the Equus holds its own against some of the finest. ▲

Equus is something special. From the 2013 version, Hyundai refined the dashboard, center stack and steering wheel with sharper detailing. The seven-inch TFT gauge-cluster display is big and bold. The infotainment system with premium navigation system is displayed on a bright 9.2 inch screen and navigated by an intuitive clicky console knob. It's highlighted by a thumping 598-watt, 17speaker, Lexicon 7.1 Discrete Surround Sound audio system. A tri-zone (front-left, frontright, and rear) climate control system keeps every passenger comfortable. Another shot of class comes courtesy of the heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and leatherbooted shift lever. The heated and ventilated front seats have 12-way adjustability and the posh accommodations extend to the cavernous back seats, with audio and climate controls located in a fold-down center armrest. The

VITAL STATS

MSRP: $61,920 (as tested) Engine: 5.0L DOHC V-8 Output: 429 hp/376 lb-ft 0-60: 6.0 seconds MPG: 15 city/23 hwy ▲

Under the hood: Equus’ dual-overheadcam 5-liter V-8 engine is a 429-horsepower beast, providing plenty of muscle and get-upand-go for merging and passing maneuvers. The V-8 engine is cutting edge: it has gasoline direct injection (GDI), dual continuously variable valve timing, and tuned variable induction. Its eight-speed automatic transmission and rear wheel drive deliver lively acceleration, sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds. Its fuel economy numbers are somewhat disappointing — an estimated 15 city and 23 highway — which is about the only negative we can say about this vehicle. The Equus offers three air suspension modes — Normal, Sport and Snow — though this car is at its best as a highway cruiser. On the inside: The Equus' cabin is where the vehicle really stands out. With plush leather, French stitching and other high-quality touches, the interior of the

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wheels By Curt Blakeney

Head of the Class The 2014 Kia Sorento is a worthy contender in the mid-sized crossover SUV market

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Sorento got a complete overhaul in 2014: with a more athletic profile, fancier interior, beefier V-6 engine, better handling and more tech features and safety equipment ...

OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS, I've had the opportunity to test drive many crossover SUVs: the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Forester, Ford Explorer, and a few others. I can honestly say, the 2014 Kia Sorento is right up there with the best of them. Sorento, Kia's top-selling model, got a complete overhaul in 2014: with a more athletic profile, fancier interior, beefier V-6 engine, better handling and more tech features and safety equipment than its predecessor. It comes bundled with Kia's industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Sorento has four trim levels: LX, EX, SX and Limited. We test drove the SX,

which is well-equipped with standard features like panoramic sunroof with power sunshade, push-button start, navigation system, Sirius satellite radio, 19" alloy wheels, Bluetooth interface and a power tailgate. It sports plenty of high-tech safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and backup camera. Under the hood: Kia's 3.3-liter, V-6 engine cranks out 290 horsepower and powers a six-speed automatic transmission. Press the gas pedal, and the engine responds with a growl; it's well-suited for most driving conditions and has ample highway acceleration. It sprints from zero to 60 in 7.4 seconds. The Sorento's ride is smooth and refined at cruising speeds. It is configured with either a front-wheel drive or with an enhanced all-wheel-drive system. The steering has three settings: Comfort, Normal and Sport — though it's a bit gimmicky. The Sorento's fuel economy ratings were a decent 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. On the inside: Drivers will appreciate the Sorento's well-appointed cabin with heated/air-cooled front seats and a smartlydesigned dashboard, which is richly padded and patterned and tastefully trimmed. The instrument cluster is highlighted by an LCD

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VITAL STATS

MSRP: $36,900 (as tested) Engine: 3.3 Liter, DOHC, V-6 Output: 290 hp/376 lb-ft 0-60: 7.4 seconds MPG: 18 city, 25 hwy

â&#x2013;˛

inverter (so you can plug in standard electric cords) are nice touches. With the spacious interior, including a cargo area with a very usable 35 cubic feet, the Sorento works best as a five-passenger crossover. Optional third row seating, however, lets you seat seven ... and you can even split fold the second and third rows. Kia wisely added rear air conditioning, with vents at the sides of the thirdrow seats. With all seven seats in place, however, the Sorento offers a measly 9.1 cubic feet of cargo space, just enough room for few grocery bags. â&#x2013;˛

virtual speedometer, which is ultra-modern looking and effectively visible. The large center display is easy to read, and functionality is intuitive. The infotainment features an eight-inch touch screen with navigation, Infinity premium audio, Bluetooth, and a next-generation Google-powered UVO system with voice-activated controls. The screen is responsive with a sensible array of physical knobs and buttons around it. Passengers in the back were not overlooked: heated second-row seats, second-row sliding sunshades and a 115-volt power

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wheels By Curt Blakeney

Crossover Sensation The 2014 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited is a superior crossover SUV that will garner its fair share of automotive awards

SUV segment. And justifiably so ... it's reliable, well-made and stays on the cutting edge of technology. Subaru sales have been on the rise for the past five years, and the Outback is their top-selling model. The 2013 was the first year of the current design, and there are only minor cosmetic changes made for 2014. I was always fond of the Outback, but those changes in 2013 make it perhaps my favorite small crossover SUV. I really like the restyled front end, headlights, grille, front bumper and fog lights, that give it a more rugged appearance than pre-2013 models. Chassis enhancements improved both ride quality and agility, all the while maintaining 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The Outback is offered in three trim levels: base, Premium and Limited. We test drove the 2.5i Limited. Recommended options include the Alloy Wheel Package, which adds 17-inch alloy wheels, 225/60 R17 all-season

tires and fog lights, and the EyeSight driver assistance system. Under the Hood: Subaru's 2.5-liter DOHC aluminum-alloy 16-valve Boxer engine is a thing of beauty, designed for increased performance and fuel efficiency. It cranks out 173 hp and 174 lb.-ft. of torque, while maintaining 24 mpg city/30 mpg highway. The Lineartronic CVT and AWD drivetrain, which features 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters, accelerates from 0-60 in 8.8 seconds. Looking for more muscle? The Outback 3.6R is powered by a 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine. Inside the Cabin: The Outback is a tworow crossover, offering comfortable seating for five. It's roomy: total passenger volume is 105.4 cu. ft. and maximum cargo capacity is 71.3 cu. ft. (with the 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded down). It's interior design is simple, comfortable and functional. A single instrument cluster faces the driver, with the center part of the dash sweeping down to join the console on the tunnel. The touchscreen infotainment system features a 7.0-inch LCD display, GPS navigation system, Bluetooth and Sirius Radio. As expected, the Outback is exceptional in safety, rated as “superior” in the new IIHS Front Crash Prevention (FCP) test program. ▲

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VITAL STATS

MSRP: $33,030 (as tested) Engine: 2.5L 4-cyl Output: 173 hp/174 lb.-ft. 0-60: 8.8 seconds MPG: 24 city/30 hwy

SUBARU'S OUTBACK HAS BEEN DRAWING RAVE REVIEWS for years in the crossover

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wheels By Curt Blakeney

Hidden Gem If labels don't matter to you, the 2014 Kia Cadenza is a great choice if you're in the market for a luxury sedan

MSRP: $41,900 (as tested) Engine: 3.3L DOHC V-6 Output: 293 hp/255 lb.-ft. 0-60: 6.3 seconds MPG: 19 city/ 28 hwy

are trying to go toe-to-toe with Japanese automakers Toyota, Nissan and Honda, and in recent years, have been gaining traction. Having a luxury sedan was critical in propelling Kia up the ladder, and the Korean automaker nailed it with the new Cadenza. This luxury sedan is outstanding, offering exceptional luxury at a great price. It's the complete luxury package of sleek style, refined detail, and enough high-tech goodies to keep even the most discerning car owner content. The Cadenza is offered in two trim levels: Premium and Limited. We test drove the Premium with the Technology and Luxury packages. Standard equipment in the Cadenza includes navigation system, smart-key entry, a rear camera system and a 550-watt Infinity sound system. The Luxury Package adds a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather upgrade, ventilated driver's seat and heated steering

wheel. The Technology Package adds smart cruise control, blind spot detection, and a lane-departure warning system. To create a stress-free purchase, Kia threw in free scheduled maintenance for the first three years (or 37,500 miles), on top of its already impressive 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. Under the Hood: The Cadenza is powered by a smooth 293-horsepower, 3.3liter V-6, hooked up to a six-speed automatic transmission. It's got enough muscle to pass on the freeway, and accelerates from 0 to 60 in 6.3 seconds. Fuel economy is about what's expected from a luxury car with a V-6 engine: 19 miles per gallon in the city, 28 mpg on the highway. The Cadenza's ride is tight, refined and quiet, with enough insulation to filter out most road and wind noise. Inside the Cabin: The Cadenza's spacious interior is tastefully appointed: plush leather, wood trim and well-textured plastic surfaces. The driver gets a comfortable 10-way power adjustable seat, while rear seats are spacious with plenty of legroom. The dashboard is clean and modern with a digital speedometer and tachometer. The controls are intuitive and easy to navigate, a combination of an eight-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system and two tidy rows of buttons — one for the climate controls and one for the stereo. ▲

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VITAL STATS

KIA AND ITS SISTER COMPANY HYUNDAI

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Test Drive

2014 TOYOTA COROLLA LE ECO PREMIUM The Corolla has long been a market leader in the compact sedan category, as a reliable, inexpensive and cost-effective option. With a redesign in 2014, the Corolla has added bolder styling and modern comforts and features ... all the while maintaining its dependable, frugal roots. Three trim levels (L, LE, and S) are powered by a base 1.8-liter four-cylinder kicking out 132 horsepower and rated 28 city/37 highway mpg. We test drove the LE Eco Premium, which offers an EPA-estimated 42 highway mpg from its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with Valvematic technology (rated at 140 hp). Piano-black accents and the fluid design of the dashboard, instrument panel, center console and infotainment system take the interior to a whole new level. The Entune premium audio system with navigation and 6.1-inch touch-screen display are outstanding. Right on: A backup camera, remote keyless entry, 16-in. alloy wheels, integrated rear spoiler and leather-like SofTex-trimmed heated front seats are some of the nicer touches on the LE Eco Premium model. Price as tested: $23,270

2014 VERSA NOTE SV

2014 LEXUS IS 350 AWD

Nissan is best known for its sports sedans and cross-over SUVS, and with the Versa Note it's looking to make an imprint in the budget category. For a car under $20K, the Versa Note — the hatchback version of its sedan sibling — is a nifty ride. It's aerodynamic design and efficient powertrain add up to exceptional fuel economy (31 city/40 highway mpg). A 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine powers a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that can capably merge and keep up with traffic, but it's far from fast or responsive. The interior is roomy, including best-inclass rear legroom, with plenty of cargo space. The Divide-N-Hide adjustable floor creates a convenient loading platform, or drop the back seats for more space. The lack of a center console makes it feel somewhat barren inside. Still, it's not lacking cool technological features, like push button ignition, Bluetooth system, remote keyless entry, and a 360-degree Around View monitor for backing up and parking in tight spaces. C'mon man: The cup holders are situated so far under the dash, all they can accommodate is a can or a kid's sippy cup. Price as tested: $19,545

The 2014 model year sees the introduction of an all-new, third-generation IS, Lexus' compact sports sedan, with updated style and technology. The IS comes in two styles, the 250 and 350, with the latter boasting a 306-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine, making it the sportier of the two. Drivers of the second-generation IS will notice the big, bold spindle grille that Lexus has adopted as its signature look. The new IS 350 is still a rocket, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. However, fuel economy is rated a modest 19 city/26 highway mpg. As you'd expect from a Lexus, the interior is handsome and well appointed with leather upholstery, a striking dashboard and center stack, LFA-inspired digital instrumentation and a long list of standard luxury features. There's also a bold colorful infotainment display, maneuvered by a console mouse-like controller. New electrostatic controls let you change interior temperature with the swipe of a finger. C'mon man: In the AWD version, a bulge in the floorboard (to accommodate the transfer case) digs into the driver’s right calf. Price as tested: $49,615 ▲

By Curt Blakeney

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wheels

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music

Storm Rolling Into Florence Country Thunder Music Festival brings out the heavy artillery in 2014

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for a massive musical onslaught in the desert from April 10-13, 2014. Country music fans will two-step the night away with Jason Aldean, reigning ACM “Male Vocalist of the Year.” Aldean brings the power to the party wherever he performs. Alongside powerhouse Aldean is the firecracker artist herself, Miranda Lambert. With her massive catalogue of hits, her high-energy show and her fiery personality, fans will come to see the real face of new country music. Also headlining, The Band Perry, the family trio that embraces that old trusted adage of any good music — the hook. And they have a lot of great hooks. Add to that Kimberly Perry's lusty, belting voice, and fans will be lost in the maelstrom of music that is The Band Perry. Joining these three powerhouses are some names everyone will know. The festival site will become a massive sing-a-long when the likes of Sawyer Brown, Craig Morgan, Mark Chesnutt, Joe Diffie, and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band hit the stage. Joining these legendary acts are some of the hottest artists up and coming in country music. Enter Charlie Worsham, Will Hoge, Chad

Miranda Lambert (above) and Jason Aldean

Brownlee, Thompson Square, Cassadee Pope and Tyler Farr. “We feel it’s important to get the right mix of talent every year,” said Troy Vollhoffer, executive producer of Country Thunder. “We think we’ve gotten it right yet again. Our headliners are incredibly strong and we’ve backed them up with a good mix of hot, young talent, and classic artists who appeal to our entire demographic. We know that our fans are going to have a blast this spring!” Set against the backdrop of the Arizona desert, Country Thunder offers music fans much more than your typical festival or concert. Activities include camping, thrill rides, amazing food, specialty item vendors, and much more. Electric Thunder, the latest addition to the Country Thunder experience is where the party keeps going all night long. DJs are spinning country, red dirt, and rock while giving a EDM/club twist. Visit www.countrythunder.com or call 866-802-6418 to purchase tickets or for more festival information. Also receive CT updates directly to your mobile phone by texting ARIZONA to 74455. Like on facebook.com/countrythunderusa and follow at twitter.com/countrythunder. ▲

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WITH THOUSANDS DESCENDING ON FLORENCE, Country Thunder is preparing

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good times

By Michelle Talsma Everson

The Best Bars to Watch the Big Game Celebrate Super Bowl XLVIII at these great Valley sports bars

▲ ▲ ▲ Top: Coach & Willie’s Bottom: Hob Nob Sports Grill

LET’S FACE IT — for football fans, the Super Bowl is the biggest holiday after Christmas and New Year’s. After all, there is a reason everyone knows what you’re talking about when you simply refer to it as “the Big Game.” This year, instead of watching from your living room, come out and join other fans as they cheer on their favorite teams at one of these great Valley watering holes. With big screen TVs, great food and drinks, and high energy galore, why stay home?

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COACH & WILLIE’S 1 E. Boston St., Chandler, AZ 85225 480.776.6240 www.coachandwillies.com Named “Best Downtown Sports Bar and Restaurant” several years running, Coach & Willie’s, located in downtown Chandler, has everything East siders could want in a Super Bowl hot spot. “Coach & Willie’s, in the heart of downtown Chandler, is the place to be for Super Bowl XLVIII,” said general manager and operator Kevin Grojean. At Coach & Willie’s, Super Bowl fans can expect: • 31 HD TV’s with amazing sound. • Pizza and wing combo specials all day. • Drink specials galore, including $3 beers, $3 mimosas, and $4 Bloody Mary’s. • 50 craft beers to choose from and “a staff that can’t wait to see you!”

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Grojean encouraged Super Bowl fans to download Coach & Willie’s new app, available on their website, to see pictures, menus, specials, and more. So much more than a pub, this great locale features delicious food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. HOB NOB SPORTS GRILL 7200 W. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 14 Chandler, AZ 85226 480.940.4745 www.hobnobsports.com “Good food. Good drink. Good friends. Good times!” is the motto at Chandler’s Hob Nob Sports Grill. “Since 2007, Hob Nob Sports Grill has satisfied local appetites with reasonably priced cuisine, served in a relaxed and fun sports atmosphere,” according to the folks behind Hob Nob. “If you are a Chicago fan you are ‘Home Sweet Home Chicago,’” said Yianni Spentzos of Hob Nob Sports Grill. “But we embrace all fans to come in and celebrate with all major sports packages and great food and drinks, with amazing specials throughout the week.” During the Big Game, Hob Nob will showcase the game on the big screen and offer its menu full of delicious food and drinks, in addition to friendly staff ready to take your order. If you want to experience Hob Nob during a regular weekend or weeknight, prepare for activity as there’s

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something going on, all the time! Hob Nob Sports Grill is truly one of Chandler’s favorite local sports bars.

GRINGO STAR STREET BAR 501 S. Mill Ave., #101, Tempe, AZ 85281 480.306.8633 www.gringostarstreetbar.com If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind place to watch the Super Bowl, Gringo Star Street Bar in downtown Tempe is the spot. “Gringo is a great place to watch the game with huge 60 inch LED TV's, amazing

▲ Top: Coach’s Corner Grill Bottom: Gringo Star Street Bar

food and powerful sound system for the ideal game viewing experience,” said Stephen Sperry of Gringo Star. Sperry added that Super Bowl fans can also expect complimentary Doritos and touchdown shots throughout the Big Game as well. What else makes Gringo Star stand out? Its gourmet food truck style menu, vintage arcade games, and interactive street art. It’s also a great place to host an event, so if you’re expecting a crowd for the Big Game, bring them over to Gringo Star. Call 602.793.9145 to “reserve a keg and table for your crew,” Sperry said. ▲

“Also, get home safely by jumping on the light rail located mere steps from our front door,” Harvey said. “Call to reserve your seat today.” Coach’s Corner Grill features delicious drinks, appetizers and entrees — so much more than typical bar fare.

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COACH’S CORNER GRILL 333 E Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85004 602.293.3332 www.coachandwillies.com/ccgrill Dubbed “downtown’s newest hot spot for the big game,” Coach’s Corner Grill is located at 4th Street and Jefferson in Phoenix. “We are positioned in sports fan heaven — directly between Chase Field and U.S. Airways Center,” said manager Daron Harvey. “We have something for everyone with our 15 draft beers and over 20 unique bottles, not to mention we boast Fireball on tap, too!” Harvey added that Coach’s Corner boasts 11 HD big screen TV’s and food and drink specials all day during the Big Game. If you want to bring your four-legged best friend, that’s no problem — the sports bar’s patio is dog friendly!

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gear guide

WINTER

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Dakine Women's Vine Beanie

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This stylish beanie is hand-knit and designed with a chunky, cable-style braid and a fleece inner band, offering warmth, comfort and fashion all in one hat. $30; www.sportchalet.com

Celtek Men’s Gunnar Glove Snow season has never been so easy with this upgraded glove, which comes equipped with a goggle wipe, heat pocket, wrist cinch and removable touch-screen liner — perfect for phone usage on the mountain. You can find them in black, orange or rasta. $59.99; www.sportchalet.com

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Spy Trevor Goggle

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Modern technology meets a retro style. With features like an anti-fog lens system, anti-scratch protection, 100 percent UV protection and helmet compatibility, these goggles will go with whatever style you bring to the mountains. $79.95; www.sportchalet.com

Giro Battle Helmet

This is one helmet you can’t mess with, literally. It’s a certified head-protecting beast with hard-shell construction and eight vents. Comes in nine different colors. $75; www.sportchalet.com

Celtek Women's Obsession Facemask Facemasks are essential when harsh snow comes down, but there’s no reason for ladies to have to choose between cute or functional. You can be cute and functional with this soft brushed, moisture-wicking spandex pullover facemask from Celtek. $19.99; www.sportchalet.com

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Celtek Women's Hello Operator Glove

This trigger mitt allows for warmth and dexterity all bundled with a cute pattern. While it doesn’t offer a touch-screen liner, it does have a 9 out of 10 rating for warmth, so you can bet that your digits will be toasty in no time. $49.99; www.sportchalet.com

Celtek Men's Heist Facemask

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Redesigned to offer maximum warmth, this men’s facemask offers an ultra soft polyester fabric that is both lightweight and breathable, and works great under helmets. $19.99; www.sportchalet.com

Neff Highback Backpack This miniature backpack is perfect for keeping a few tools and personal items on you for easy access on the mountain. This pack will literally strap to your bindings and is 100 percent polyester, so it will dry out in time for your next run. $20; www.sportchalet.com

Volcom Men's Circle Reversible Beanie

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Reversible is the key word here; it’s like you get two beanies for the price of one. $22; www.sportchalet.com

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Dakine Quick Tune Kit

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Need Macguyver on the slopes? This handy pocket kit keeps your board tuned and ready to go. Features multiple pockets, an edge tuning tool, triangle scraper, all temp wax, Scotchbrite pad and tuning tips. $49.99; www.sportchalet.com

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gear guide

GADGETS

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Felix TwoHands II

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Stylish stand clips onto the back of all iPad generations, eReaders and most tablets. Squeeze the back of the clip to open the arms wide, and fasten it to your device. Slide the clip until you find the most comfortable viewing angle. $24.99; www.felixbrand.com

Power Bright 180W Cup Inverter This 180 watt power inverter plugs into your vehicles cigarette lighter socket or attaches to a car battery and fits securely in most vehicle's cup holders. With three USB ports and one standard outlet, you can run and charge up to four devices at once. $36.99; www.powerbright.com

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iHome 13" Smart Brief

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Provides an elegant, portable, slim and lightweight case to safely carry your iPad, tablet and electronic devices. Designed with three storage pockets for devices and a compartment to organize your headphones, chargers, cables and power cords. $49.99; www.ihomecases.com

Bēm Wireless Mobile Speaker Grab-and-go speaker delivers rich, precision-tuned sound. Barely 2.5” cubed, it's the perfect accessory for on-the-go use and travelers. Connects via Bluetooth to your smart phone, iPod, tablet or laptop. Mini USB port charges mobile devices. $69.99; www.bemwireless.com

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Marley Uplift Headphones

The House of Marley Uplift in-ear headphones are comfortable, slick and composed of recyclable aluminum and FSC-certified sapele or beech wood. Powerful 8mm moving coil drivers provide clean, crisp sound with powerful bass. $29.99; www.thehouseofmarley.com

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gear

Valentine's Day 1

2 2 Hypnotic Poison by Dior — A fragrance that casts a fascinating spell of sensuality in a bewitching blend of jasmine, bitter almond and vanilla. $98; www.FragranceNet.com

3 Kanshi Mimosa Candle — Nothing says Valentine’s Day like an alluring, aromatic candle with natural scents that calm the body and mind. $18; www.KanshiBeauty.com 4 Too Faced Chocolate Bar Eye Shadow — Pigmented with pure, antioxidant-rich cocoa powder and includes 16 matte and shimmer shades of natural browns, delicate pinks and luscious plums. $49; www.toofaced.com 5 Frosted Cupcake by Flirty Aprons — Cupcake theme makes this apron fun for bakers of all ages. The neat pleats along the edge and cute colors give it a gorgeous, flirty look. $34.95; www.FlirtyAprons.com

6 Orogold Cosmetics 24K Travel Kit — Give her the gift of gold … for her skin! Each product is specially formulated with 24K gold for beautiful skin. $218, www.OrogoldCosmetics.com 7 Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum — A floral explosion, that has the power to make everything seem more positive. $165; www.FragranceNet.com

8 Ralph Lauren Romance Eau de Parfum — The timeless essence of falling in love. The fragrance of tender moments and the simple joys of life. $84; www.FragranceNet.com

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1 Jane Iredale Perfectly Nude Eye Shadow Kit — This bewitching set features five shades guaranteed to draw attention to your eyes, instead of your makeup. $55; www.JaneIredale.com

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babygear 1

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1 Baby Touch 2 Monitor Featuring an innovative, high resolution 3.5" color video screen and an easy-to-use touchscreen interface, the Baby Touch 2 gives parents controls right at their fingertips to conveniently see baby, day or night. $249; www.summerinfant.com 2 Stonz Booties Booties keep little feet extremely warm, securely stays on, slips on easily over other clothing, and protects little feet and dangling ankles from inclement weather. $39; www.stonzwear.com 3 My Little Snugapuppy Deluxe Bouncer A soft and snuggly bouncer for baby, with toys to entertain and vibration to calm. Super comfortable with deluxe fabrics from head to toe. $59.99; www.fisher-price.com

4 Philips AVENT Comfort Electric Breast Pump Ideal for busy moms who pump regularly, this BPA free electric pump provides a quick and comfortable pumping experience with the touch of a button. $149.99; www.usa.philips.com 5 Shaidee Shaidee is an innovative carrier, sling and car seat attachment that keeps babies shaded, dry and cool. $29.99; www.shaidee.com

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6 bloom nano Highchair Engineered with the urban home in mind, nano highchair's sleek design folds up to a mere 7 inches (18 cm) for quick and easy storage. $149; www.bloombaby.com 7 Safety 1st Elite 80 Air+ 3-in-1 Car Seat Combines the advanced protection of Air Protect cushion system with patented GCell HX foam designed for superior protection around the torso. Together they provide full-body, side-impact protection to keep children from 5-80 pounds safer during the ride. $229; www.safety1st.com

8 Boppy Interactive Pillow This award-winning Boppy pillow is perfect for playtime fun. Attach toys (included) to engage and entertain baby during tummy time. Sitting babies will love the perfectly positioned hide and seek toy pocket. $49; www.boppy.com 9 Graco Day2Night Sleep System An integrated solution for seamless day and nighttime sleep, including a bedroom bassinet, portable bassinet, playard and changing table. $269; www.gracobaby.com 10 Kiinde Gift Set Pump, store, organize, warm, and feed using the same pouch. The Kiinde Twist system completely eliminates the need to transfer precious milk from bottles to bags and back again. $99; www.kiinde.com

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babygear 11

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11 Chicco Neuvo Travel System The Neuvo Travel System includes the KeyFit 30 infant car seat and a compact 3-D fold stroller that makes travel and storage a breeze. The stroller features a 5-point safety harness, parent cup holder and child tray with double cup holders, storage basket and an adjustable, removable canopy with peek-a-boo window. $279; www.ChiccoUSA.com 12 TinyLove Gymini Move 'n Play A five-in-one activity gym that offers endless playtime options and a stimulating environment for your growing baby. $74.99; www.tinylove.com 13 Baby Trends Moonlight Nursery Center The Baby Trend Playard comes complete with a deluxe multi textured mattress pad, a bassinet feature for smaller children, a swing away diaper changer allowing for convenient diapering and a wipes/diaper stacker. $79; www.babytrend.com

14 BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Miracle The entirely new and unique design with a generously padded adjustable waist belt, comfortable back support and wide shoulder straps allow flexible carrying in a variety of ways. $189; www.babybjorn.com

15 Combi Adventure Mobile Entertainer This ATV-themed complete entertainment center is both functional and fun as your toddler learns to stand and take his first steps. $119; www.CombiUSA.com 16 Stokke MyCarrier Cool Has two front and one back carrying positions, which maintain optimal ergonomic positioning for both you and your baby. Made with breathable mesh textiles to reduce heat and moisture. $219; www.stokke.com

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fit&trim By Scott Keppel

Time to Try Something New Simple tips to obtain your weight loss goals in the New Year

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IS THIS GOING TO BE ANOTHER YEAR of making the New Year’s Resolution of losing weight? Maybe this year it’s to get to the gym more often or just “be healthier.” No matter what your resolution is, the following tips can make it a little more exciting and less cumbersome. It’s simple: try a different style of exercising/working out each week for the next 8-12 weeks. Not sure if yoga is your thing? Maybe lifting weights will get your results. Or maybe CrossFit is what resonates with you. You won’t know unless you try. Most gyms, studios,

No matter what exercise you try or prefer, your goal should be to exercise consistently while eating a balanced diet.

and/or workout facilities offer a trial period. Some may have a minimal cost, but several are free and this can be a great way to find out where you belong. Below are some of the most popular exercise trends and the types of facilities that may offer them.

out of your resistance training. No matter what form of resistance training you choose, you can build lean muscle mass, burn fat/calories, shape your physique and improve both posture and body awareness.

1 Resistance training: Typically you can go to a gym and do resistance training yourself, or you can hire a personal trainer and go to a personal training studio. Either way, resistance training is performed using dumbbells, barbells, bands, machines, etc. All offer great benefits, but much like anything, all have limitations. Deciding whether or not to lift heavy and less reps, light and more reps, full body, upper body, and so on may be overwhelming, so you should consult with a professional before starting to ensure you get the most

variety of types of yoga. You can try Vinyasa flow, Bikram, or deep stretch to name a few. Yoga is a great way to increase flexibility, postural awareness, and muscle strength and burn calories, while learning proper breathing techniques and ways to deal with stress more efficiently.

2 Yoga: Yoga studios, as well as personal training studios and big box gyms, offer a

3 CrossFit: CrossFit studios are the ideal place to pursue this form of working out. These workouts will help you burn fat while building strength and muscle endurance. While not a requirement, many individuals who enjoy this style of exercise prefer to work several muscles at once while working in a competitive group setting. 4 Bootcamp, total body pump and group classes: These types of workouts are often offered in a group setting of 10 or more and are a cost effective way for you to have an instructor push you beyond your comfort zone. Most big box gyms, personal training studios and even parks will offer a variety of group classes. Classes are a great way to meet like-minded people while building muscular endurance and burning fat.

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5 Pilates: This exercise is a good way to build flexibility, strength and muscle endurance. Individuals will often go to a pilates studio, but several big box gyms and some personal training studios will offer forms of pilates as well.

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No matter what exercise you try or prefer, your goal should be to exercise consistently while eating a balanced diet. Only through diet and exercise can you achieve your optimal health. We are all different, so what works for one may not work for another. How often one works out will vary, so find what works for you and get after it.

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With nearly 20 years of experience in the fitness industry, internationally recognized trainer Scott Keppel is the founder of Scott’s Training Systems. He has trained everyone from body builders to new moms and specializes in an individualized approach to fitness based on personality, lifestyle and fitness goals. For more information, visit www.scottstrainingsystems.com.

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fit&trim

Get in Shape After the Holidays America’s favorite fitness expert, Denise Austin, will lead you through a 30-minute sizzling Latin dance routine that is designed to burn calories and sculpt your abs. Denise Austin: Burn Fat Fast Latin Dance features Denise’s favorite Latin moves that will provide a full body workout. $14.98 From internet sensation Mike Chang, creator of Six Pack Shortcuts, the #1 fitness channel on YouTube, comes Mike Chang’s Six Pack Shortcuts: The Total Body Workout. This ultra-effective workout DVD is designed to maximize burning fat and building muscles while focusing on four body sculpting core workouts: the upper-body, lower-body, abs and cardio. $14.98 Shape a lean and long dancer’s body with Mary Helen Bowers’ Ballet Beautiful: Sculpt & Burn Cardio Blast. The DVD includes two 30-minute total body toning workouts to form trim legs, a tight butt, firm core and strong upper body with low-impact cardio elements, light weight strength training and targeted mat work. $14.98 The BeFit: 30-Day Butt Lift program provides target-toning with strength workouts that focus specifically on the glutes to burn fat, tighten abs, tone legs and sculpt a strong and shapely butt. The Booty Bible author Alicia Marie and expert trainer Courtney Prather lead the six high-intensity workouts, which include plyometric and yoga moves. $14.98 Reshape and rejuvenate your body using the power of yoga, breath and mindful movement with the BeFit Yoga: 10-Minute Daily Yoga Fix. In just 10 minutes a day, world-renowned yoga expert Rainbeau Mars leads a body-transforming journey designed to strengthen, lengthen and beautify everybody from beginner to advanced. $14.98 Step Up Revolution Hip-Hop Cardio Burn is a fat-burning dance workout that gives you the lean, sexy body you’ve always wanted with four hot dance routines. Join pros Misha Gabriel and Micki Duran as they guide you through each step, linking and repeating the sequences, before dancing the routines fullthrottle to sizzling featured tracks. $14.98 Go from beginner to winner with The Biggest Loser: 6 Week Cardio Crush. The intense workout program builds strength and burns calories for maximum weight loss just like the contestants on the hit TV show “The Biggest Loser.” Series trainers Bob Harper and Dolvett Quince lead the 6-week program, which provides three pound-shedding workouts. $14.98 The Biggest Loser: 8-Minute Body Blasters is an 8-minute, high-intensity workout that maximizes calorie burn for a fast, body-blasting workout to shed inches while sculpting your abs, butt, arms and legs. With trainers Bob Harper, Dolvett Quince and Season 14 all-stars leading the charge, you’ll have the encouragement and motivation needed for lasting weight loss.$14.98 ▲

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DID YOU SET YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION to trim some inches off that spare tire? Stuck in a rut and can't lose those 15 extra pounds? Choose one of these eight new DVDs from Lions Gate Entertainment (www.lionsgateshop.com).

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goodhealth By Ryan Read

Mythbusters: Don’t Be Fooled By These Common Diet Myths Is your pre-workout nutrition routine holding you back from reaching your fitness goals?

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workout. Deep-fried, fatty snacks take longer to digest and can leave you feeling sick before a workout, not to mention slow you down. Stay away from fried, creamy or decadent foods if you want to get the most out of your next sweat session. MYTH: Caffeine and carbonated drinks will give you that extra energy you need to get you through your workout. If you regularly rush out to grab your favorite energy drink or coffee mid-afternoon, then listen up. Sure, they might give you that much-needed boost to get through the day, but did you know the excessive amounts of sugar commonly found in both can wreak havoc on your digestive system? Both carbonation and high levels of caffeine deplete the body of important nutrients, making you more fatigued and, in many cases, causing upset stomachs and bowel problems. MYTH: High-protein bars are great before a workout and when you’re on the go. When you're on the run and don’t have time to prepare a healthy meal, protein bars can make a convenient snack. Or so we think. According to the American Council on Exercise, a study conducted by Consumer Lab showed that many manufacturers label their bars incorrectly — claiming to be good for your waistline — when in reality the bars contain lots of filler ingredients and sugar. MYTH: Sports drinks are great if you’re looking to hydrate before a workout.

Think again. If you’re parched, you’d better stick to water. Sports drinks might claim to give you energy and replenish your electrolytes, but there is something they're hiding: the truth. While these simple carbohydrates might give you a quick boost, guzzling the sugary stuff on a regular basis could leave you tired and cause an upset stomach. So, if fibrous vegetables and sports drinks aren't good before a workout, what is? While there might be certain items that you shouldn't have before your next trip to the gym, it doesn’t mean all food and drinks are off limits. Get the best workout fuel by consuming a small, relatively high-carbohydrate, moderate-protein, low-fat meal. Try these healthy options: • Greek yogurt and trail mix can give you the protein and carbohydrates you need without upsetting your stomach before a workout. • Smoothies mixed with fresh fruit and Greek yogurt are a quick and healthy option for pre-workout fuel. • Combine ½ a banana with peanut butter and eat them on toast for a meal that provides protein and slow-release carbohydrates that will give you energy. • Before your morning workout, combine oatmeal and blueberries for long-lasting energy that will get you going quickly.

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GOOGLE THE WORD “DIET” and your computer screen will flood with various health tips, tricks and shortcuts that help you feel and look healthier. We’ve all done it. While trusting what we see on the internet may seem like a good idea, the truth is, we can’t always believe what we read. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular pre-workout diet falsities and set the record straight. MYTH: Raw veggies make a great pre-workout snack. Not true. Although these foods are healthy and will fill you up, they are high in fiber and can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort mid-workout. The last thing you want at the gym is an upset stomach, so avoid reaching for items like broccoli, cabbage and other leafy greens before your workout. MYTH: I can eat fast food if I’m working out later. You can … if you want to experience some serious stomach pains before a

Ryan Read is the owner of Thrive Specialized Training. For more diet tips and fitness information, visit www.ryanreadthrive.com.

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self&body By Dr. James C. Marotta

Feel-Good Skincare Routine Simple strategies that will keep your skin looking and feeling great

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While achieving a healthy complexion is often seen as a beauty concern, skin health actually contributes greatly to our appearance and how we feel.

WHEN APPROACHING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE, many people place the upmost importance on diet, exercise and getting enough sleep. However, what about the health of our skin? While achieving a healthy complexion is often seen as a beauty concern, skin health actually contributes greatly to our appearance and how we feel. The skin is our largest organ and acts as a protective barrier to the rest of the world. It helps keep fluids in, preventing dehydration, and harmful microbes out, helping us stay healthy. Because of this, paying attention to the skin’s needs is an absolute must. The health of our skin depends on a variety of factors, including a skincare regime, diet and

our daily activities. However, proper care is easier than you think. By following a few simple “feel-good” skincare tips, anyone can restore the health of their skin to look, and feel, amazing! • Keep your skin’s pH balanced. You know that a balanced diet and exercise regime is the best way to make your body feel good, but did you know that the same holds true for your skin? Your skin has a natural pH balance of 5.5, and when it is out of balance it can get flakey, peely or even itchy. The good news is keeping it balanced is easier than you think. Try using a soapfree cleanser (yes, basic soap breaks down the skin) and gently clean your skin with your hands — not a harsh washcloth — with lukewarm water. Your skin will be balanced and look and feel great in no time! • Embrace the humidity. When you see humid weather on the horizon, don’t think bad hair day, think good skin day! Added moisture in the air can be beneficial to your skin and your health. The skin replenishes itself in humid weather by soaking in moisture from the air, making it feel hydrated, dewy and healthy. Invest in a good humidifier and you can experience these benefits all year long.

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• Spend time relaxing. Relax! Stress sets off hormones that lead to acne, premature aging and other skin ailments. While reducing stress is easier said than done, try finding a hobby, such as knitting or reading, that allows you to relax. Less stress increases oxygen flow, which minimizes flare-ups.

AZSAL RECOMMENDED SKINCARE PRODUCTS

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1 Skin Authority Age Defying Daily Basics Kit for Men reverses the premature signs of aging due to sun, stress, and pollution. Features technology tuned to men. Includes daily wash, shave serum, conditioning toner and hydrating sunscreen with SPF 30. $124; www.skinauthority.com

5 NovoScarMD with NovoSerum is the most scientifically advanced scar cream on the market. It reverses scar damage and stretch marks, and rapidly returns skin to its original state with almost no trace of skin injury. $120; www.novoscarmd.com 6 Deeply hydrating and plumping, Amarte Hydrolift Cream firms and smoothes to give skin an ageless radiance. Nano-encapsulated retinol is powerful enough to diminish fine lines. $59; www.AmarteSkinCare.com ▲

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Dr. James C. Marotta is a dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon who specializes in facial plastic surgery, with particular expertise in minimally invasive (endoscopic) facial plastic surgery and facial rejuvenation/anti-aging procedures.

4 ASAP Super A+ Serum works overnight to help hydrate, repair and regenerate environmentally damaged skin. Stimulates collagen production and accelerates skin cell turnover. $89; www.SkinStore.com ▲

• Always wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Clouds are only thin barriers to the rays of sunshine that are present every single day. Whether or not there are clouds, you should wear sunscreen everyday to protect from sun damage. Protecting yourself will make you feel better now (who wants a sunburn?) and later on. Wearing an SPF will protect against skin cancer, wrinkles, sunburn and many other skin ailments.

3 MitoQ is effective in significantly reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin’s overall hydration and radiance. Delivers key antioxidants straight to the mitochondria of every cell with its patented mitoquinol molecule. $119; www.MitoQ.com ▲

• Target your treatments. Eye creams (and neck and bust creams) are completely different from facial moisturizing creams. The skin around the eyes is the first to show signs of aging due to the fact that it is more delicate and is constantly active. It is smart to use a cream specially formulated for this area. The same holds true for the face, neck and bust — your treatments should be targeted to your skin’s specific needs.

2 Rejuvenate Advanced Firming Complex transforms skin with antioxidant-rich seed oils that restore the skin’s youthful firmness and elasticity. Contains cocoa bean extracts, which are rich in collagen-boosting plant peptides. $248; www.amalabeauty.com ▲

• Exfoliate the right way. If your complexion is looking a little dull, it might need a scrub-down! Using an exfoliator 2 – 3 times a week is a great way to slough off dead skin cells, but be sure you’re doing it the right way to avoid irritation. Many people tend to be too heavyhanded, but a little exfoliator goes a long way — let the exfoliating particles do their job. You just want to facilitate the glide across the face, so that your skin feels great and you don’t over-treat it. Also, choose an exfoliator that isn’t too harsh on your skin.

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realestate

By Michelle Talsma Everson

Second Homes Arizona makes the perfect place for seasonal living

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One option is to purchase an investment home or condo. This can double as a great getaway if it can be turnkey and managed by a professional real estate management company.

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DURING THE COOLER WINTER MONTHS, the Grand Canyon State makes the ideal seasonal home for thousands looking to escape colder climates. Dubbed “snowbirds,” these temporary Valley residents bring millions to the local economy and are a vibrant part of our communities. Fortunately, the Valley real estate market offers a variety of choices for those looking to purchase second homes. Options abound Valley real estate expert Gary Colin said that there are several types of buyers in the current real estate market looking for second homes. “This time of year the Arizona market brings a few different buyers to the varied real estate landscape,” Colin explained. “Convention visitors and those escaping the snowy north are often looking for a second home or rental home that they may eventually retire in but other winter visitors, like the snowbirds, often consider fully furnished units.” One option is to purchase an investment home or condo. This can double as a great getaway it is turnkey ready and managed by a professional real estate management company. “If the new owners are a bit flexible

with their dates of travel they can maximize their return by renting to those who come for just a few months and pay above average rents for short term furnished rentals,” Colin explained. “But since values in the Valley are so great compared to those up north or even in California, some simply come down a few months or a few weeks a year and simply leave it vacant and professionally managed with some routine upkeep done.” Recent trends Colin said that gated condos are in high demand this time of year for seasonal buyers. In addition, communities with homeowners’ associations are popular among seasonal residents because routine maintenance and property management are part of the association fees that come with purchasing property in them.

Professional property management is key For buyers, especially those out of state, a professional real estate management company is crucial. “Selecting a good management company with a long tenured history is important and I have partnered with Arrowpoint Realty, Inc. since the late

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The Benefits of a Second Home According to experts, some of the perks of owning a second home include: • A second home helps you plan for retirement.

• It can be a stress reliever — a place to go for vacation or to relax. • If planned out well, a second home is something that can be financially beneficial and also something you can leave to future generations.

Whether considering a fully furnished rental, or a vacation home, features like tennis, pool and spa, or even a lake, are often requested.

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• There can be some tax benefits to owning a second home.

1980’s,” Colin said. “I have personally combined my real estate sales with the Arrowpoint office because of their expertise and to have that relationship is, in my opinion, essential for the out-of-state buyer.” For complete info on furnished rentals contact Joan Andrusko of Arrowpoint Realty, Inc. at 480.947.1499 or joan@arrowpointrealty.com. For more information on vacation home sales, contact Gary Colin at Keller Williams Realty/Sonoran Living at 602.501.4580 or gary@garycolin.com.

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• It can create a “home away from home” for yourself and your family.

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