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August has an association with getting “back to reality,” as summer vacation is over and school is back in session. Though thrown into regularly scheduled programming as we head into a busy fall, it sure still feels like summer outside as the temperatures are hotter than ever in Scottsdale. With that said, there’s no rule that says we can’t have some fun during the school year.

The newly opened Puttshack (page 98) is just one place to chill out before outdoor adventures start again. Head to the Scottsdale Quarter to check out the high-tech mini golf destination, which combines nostalgic fun with global eats and a high-energy, club-like atmosphere. Or, head up north to explore one of the places we’re suggesting for a fun Flagstaff photo-op (page 58). If looking to go a bit farther outside of the city, consider an artful trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico, (page 80), or even farther to an oceanfront resort-meets-holistic retreat in the Madlives’ Coco Bodu Hithi.

Those hoping to stay closer to home can cool off with chilled, raw eats (think tartare, crudos and ceviche) from local restaurants (page 86), curl up in the AC with a new release by a Valley author (page 60), meet up with fellow “girl bosses” at the upcoming Powerhouse Women event (page 51), or try the newly opened Mochilero Kitchen (page 83).

Our cover star this month, Anisha Ramakrishna, is currently on her stand-up comedy tour, which just stopped in Phoenix last month. We caught up with Ramakrishna (page 32) on finding the man of her dreams and newlywed life, all things Bravo’s Family Karma, her life as a stand-up comedian and Scottsdale resident, and how she always stays true to who she is.

Other exciting profiles include the founder of a local nonprofit helping pets and children stay safe (page 21), the lowdown on the new CEO and executive director of Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West (page 26), and a look at Ballet Arizona’s Contemporary Council (page 24) through the eyes of its chairwoman.

We’ll see you in fall when the temperature is (hopefully) lower, and the calendar is filled with events galore! Until then, stay cool and enjoy the remaning dog days of summer.

All my best,

Gabby Leighton

Editor-in-Chief

gabby@richmanmediagroup.com

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Arrowhead Chandler Scottsdale

Publisher Bill Richman

Vice President of Operations

Stacey Richman

Editor-in-Chief

Gabby Leighton

Creative Director

Lalo Reyes

Contributing Writers

Becky Antioco, Alison Bailin Batz, Melissa Hirschl, Mandy Holmes, Kaylor Jones, Afi Maita, Jim Prueter

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Claudia Johnstone, Beverly Shumway, Debby Wolvos

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