Posts Tagged ‘visitphoenix.com’

What’s New in Phoenix January 2012

Friday, January 6th, 2012 — posted by Maralyn D. Hill

Phoenix Skyline

In this issue….

RESORT NEWS

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS/GOLF

SPA

DINING

What’s New in Greater Phoenix?
January 2012

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH’S EDITION

“Celebrate the Arizona Experience,” culminates with Happy Birthday Arizona! on Arizona’s official centennial date, February 14, 2012.
Batter Up! 15 MLB teams return to the Valley for Cactus League Spring Training Baseball.
Frank Lloyd Wright is remembered in celebration of the 75th anniversary of Taliesin West at several Valley venues.
RESORT NEWS

Enjoy a “Spring Training Family Escape” at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Guests visiting during the 2012 Spring Training Season can expect the ultimate Family FUN experience, and still be close to the nearby ballparks. With the Chief FUN Officer at the helm of the “Family FUN Program,” guests will explore endless possibilities for a memorable family getaway. Learn about special programs and activities such as Kierland Kampfires, Phoenix Zoo presentations, Kids in the Kitchen, Digital Kid’s Club and more. When families aren’t at the ballpark cheering on their favorite team, they can enjoy the Adventure Water Park with a 900-foot lazy river and a 110-foot-long waterslide as well as poolside activities with the FUN Team. The “OK Corral” is adjacent to the Adventure Water Park with lawn chess, basketball, outdoor game tables, RC Car Race Tracks, and hosts Kierland Kampfires with a create-your-own s’ mores experience. The Westin Kierland has a memorable Resort experience to offer, whether looking for a relaxing getaway while taking in a few games, or a family FUN vacation poolside in the beautiful Arizona sunshine

Sheraton Crescent Hotel is a hidden gem for Phoenix wedding ceremonies and receptions. With the unveiling of its new Wedding Studio during the hotel’s annual Wedding Showcase, brides-to-be can have all their wedding desires tailor-made in one location. Whether the vision is a graceful garden ceremony under a canopy of lush ficus trees or a charming courtyard ceremony near sparkling fountains, unforgettable moments and new nuptials will transpire at Sheraton Crescent. This new boutique-style studio creates a charming and personable setting that allows brides-to-be time to relax and meet with a Wedding Specialist in the comfort of a warm and welcoming environment.

History will come to life in stark black and white at a special exhibit of images by Pedro E. Guerrero, the personal photographer of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, at the Arizona Biltmore. Presented in collaboration with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and held in honor of the 75th anniversary of Taliesin West, Wright’s Arizona home that Guerrero began photographing in 1939; The exhibit features his favorite shots of the famous property that became Wright’s architectural school. The exhibit is complimentary and the public is welcome through the duration of the display ending April 29, 2012. In addition, the Arizona Biltmore is offering a special art and history package including two tickets for the 90-minute Insight Tour at Taliesin West; two tickets to the Phoenix Art Museum’s “Frank Lloyd Wright: Organic Architecture for the 21st Century” exhibit; the Arizona Biltmore History Tour; and accommodations at the resort.

The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician and Phoenix Art Museum partner to create “Art of Luxury” guest experience. In celebration of the 75th anniversary of Taliesin West–the Arizona winter home, studio and architectural campus of American icon Frank Lloyd Wright–The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician and Phoenix Art Museum have joined together to design an exclusive and exquisite cultural experience of discovery for visitors to the Valley of the Sun. Available until April 29, 2012 the “Art of Luxury” package includes suite accommodations at The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician; Two tickets to the exhibition “Frank Lloyd Wright: Organic Architecture for the 21st Century”, at Phoenix Art Museum; 10 percent savings on any purchase at The Museum Store; and dinner for two at J&G Steakhouse at The Phoenician ($100 value) – featuring the mastery of James Beard Award-Winning Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Rates start at just $999 per night.

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa was awarded “Most Luxe Accommodations” by Arizona Foothills Magazine in the 2011 “Best of our Valley” competition. The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, located on the Gila River Indian Community, is a total destination resort showcasing the heritage, culture, art and legends of the Pima and Maricopa Tribes. The resort offerings include: 500 culturally themed rooms, Forbes Five-Star/AAA Five-Diamond dining at Kai Restaurant, the Forbes Four-Star Native American Aji Spa, 36-holes of Troon-managed golf at Whirlwind Golf Club, the 1,000-acre Koli Equestrian Center and a boat cruise to nearby attractions. .

Enjoy parent’s night out with a free “Kids’ Pajama Party” for SPG Members at Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Parents enjoy a dinner date in the Resort’s signature restaurant, deseo while kids receive a “Pajama Party complimentary. It is quick and simple. Parents stop by the Kierland Mining Co. or Front Desk to get signed up for a Starwood Preferred Guest membership. This complimentary loyalty program offers many benefits including exclusive, members-only specials and promotions, reward points for dollars spent on stays, and preferred status at Starwood Hotels and Resorts around the world. After dining in deseo, present your deseo receipt when picking up the kids from their pajama party and your session fee will be waived. This exclusive offer is valid for up to two children (a $100 value) simply by being a SPG member. This offer is also valid when dining on a Monday or Tuesday in Nellie Cashman’s Monday Club Café when deseo is closed.

Kimpton’s Firesky Resort earns green key certification further aligning with its parent company, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants’ 30-year commitment to sustainable travel and hospitality. Green Key is an international organization that specializes in the rating of lodging properties through its Eco-Rating Program, which recognizes lodging organizations that are committed to improving their environmental and fiscal performance. FireSky will join other Kimpton properties in the creation of a new Green Meetings program to align with Green Key’s programs that focus on eco-friendly practices while hosting large group meetings. In addition to Green Key initiatives, FireSky maintains Kimpton’s award-winning EarthCare program, adopted by the resort in 2007, which encompasses more than 80 eco-friendly products and operational practices. FireSky employees, as well as those at Taggia Restaurant and the all-organic Jurlique Spa, embrace EarthCare initiatives on a daily basis – recycling paper and collecting unused soaps and gently used bedding and sheets for donation to local shelters.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain has once again been recognized by the Arizona Hospitality and Lodging Association’s (AHLA) earning three coveted “Stars of the Industry” awards. The awards acknowledge the hard work of Arizona’s hospitality employees, and the exceptional programs offered by the state’s resorts and hotels. Sanctuary received top billing within the “small property” category for “Special Events, Ongoing:” Sundays in Paradise. Sanctuary’s “Sundays in Paradise” program is designed to give the local community a fun, festive and inexpensive opportunity to enjoy Sanctuary’s mesmerizing views and beautiful grounds. This ongoing weekend program features live entertainment from the region’s best performers as well as affordable a la carte lunch fare, prepared by Executive Chef Beau MacMillan. Its 2011 debut has created a great sense of community amongst Sanctuary’s guests and local residents.

Lady Gaga of Cakes will be featured at Hermosa Inn’s “Artist in Residence Series”. Colette Peters, described as Lady Gaga of Cakes, is the author of five books, a Food Network celebrity and owner of Colette’s Cakes in New York. After getting her master’s degree in painting, she went to work at Tiffany & Co. While there, she made cakes for her co-workers and in 1984 was asked to design cakes for the Tiffany Taste and Tiffany Wedding books, which introduced her innovative crooked cake and the gift box cake. With humor and passion, Colette Peters will share tales about her adventures, as well as impart some of her cherished trade secrets, creative culinary tips, and useful techniques during the dinner on Wednesday, February 22, 2012.

Tempt the senses this Valentine’s Day at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North as the resort offers myriad ways to capture the romance. On Saturday, February 11, 2012, the Resort will host a “Feast for the Senses” cooking class, highlighting a three-course menu ideal for taking the romance home on Valentine’s Day and beyond. The class will feature a menu meant for sharing, and will include a celebratory welcome cocktail and take-home recipe booklet.

For that special occasion, treat your significant other to a weekend of romance, adventure and pure relaxation at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort. The AAA Five-Diamond resort is the perfect retreat for your personalized romantic weekend getaway this Valentine’s Day. Book the “Couples Celebration Package” which includes one night luxurious room accommodations in a Fairmont room, champagne upon arrival and a $200 resort credit per room, per night, to be used towards the award-winning Willow Stream Spa or on food and beverage at any of the Resort’s outlets.

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

“Celebrate the Arizona Experience,” has been a year-long commemoration with activities and events culminating with “Happy Birthday Arizona!” on Arizona’s official centennial date. This day long series of events and commemorations will happen on Arizona’s 100th Statehood Day – Tuesday, February 14, 2012. Year-long events include “Centennial Best Fest”- a “Best of Arizona” series of festivals to honor the state’s diverse culture, art and more – as well as signature projects in Phoenix including Arizona Centennial Museum, an interactive museum showcasing the past, present and future of Arizona; and Washington Street being named as Centennial Way highlighting many of the historical elements and buildings along the path.

CityScape is now home to the downtown Phoenix central business district’s first electric car charging station with the installation of an NRG Energy eVgosm system in the underground parking garage at One E. Washington Street. The charging station will allow up to two electric vehicles to be charged at once. The 240-volt charging docks can provide an electric vehicle with up to 25 miles of range for every hour of charge. An additional charging station will be installed in the west parking garage in January. CityScape is providing the charging station at no cost to electric vehicle owners. The station is part of the eVgo network which is NRG Energy’s privately funded electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Celebrate Arizona’s 100th anniversary of statehood by getting married by the Chief Justice of the Arizona Supreme Court on the steps of the State Courts Building on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2012. All Clerks statewide are issuing licenses for this event and several of them will attend the ceremony in Phoenix. For the cost of a marriage license ($72), couples can have a wedding ceremony and be part of AZ’s history. Licenses are available to residents, non-residents and tourists alike who meet the requirements of Title 25 of Arizona’s statutes related to marriage.

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona have teamed up with the Scottsdale Street Fair to create a truly unique weekly fair that continues to give back to its community. The Scottsdale Street Fair’s Grand Opening celebration is Sunday, January 8, 2012 at the Pavilions at Talking Stick Shopping Center. This weekly street fair not only will celebrate the character of the neighborhood and its community, it will also bring together many of the regions finest vendors curating fine arts and crafts, home and lifestyle accessories, jewelry, and local business services and offerings. Each week, this event is expected to draw thousands of Valley residents who will be enjoying a day of family fun filled with talented artists, kids zone, a variety of quality food options , live music, and so much more. As part of Scottsdale Street Fairs commitment to its community, their charity partner is Team Bemis, providing spiritual, financial and emotional support to Coach Scot Bemis, Notre Dame Prep Academy coach and mentor, and his family as they battle through a very challenging time in their lives. Scot has stage four non-small-cell lung cancer.

SPORTS/GOLF

Batter Up! It’s that time again. March will mark the start of Cactus League Spring Training Baseball for the 2012 preseason. Come enjoy beautiful weather and baseball at any of the Valley’s 10 stadiums featuring 15 MLB teams: The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies and Texas Rangers. Tickets are as little as $5.

Troon® announces its partnership with Lookout Mountain Golf Club at Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort. Troon®, the leader in upscale golf course management, development, and marketing, will offer popular Troon programs at Lookout Mountain Golf Club. Golfers staying onsite at the resort can enjoy a myriad of amenities and superior service consistent with Hilton Hotels & Resorts around the world. In addition to award-winning golf, the 584 all-suite, Spanish-Mediterranean-designed resort is ideal for either business or rest and relaxation with a variety of dining options, acres of swimming pools, extensive conference space and countless activities.

SPA

Valentine’s Day is made “For Your Sweetheart” in Agave, the Arizona Spa at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. This Valentine’s Day, pamper your Sweetheart with the ultimate relaxing spa experience. In the relaxing spa atmosphere, guests can celebrate the day of love with all-day access to the WestinWorkout, Aguamiel Adult Pool, and Spa Facilities, including a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, and relaxation area on the day of spa services. There is no better gift to say, “I Love You,” than the gift of rejuvenation and wellness. With two Valentine’s Day offers to choose from, the Agave Spa has found your perfect gift.

Tempt the senses this Valentine’s Day at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North as the resort offers myriad ways to capture the romance. For the month of February, the Spa and Salon will feature a special romantic twist on the “Tapas Tasting Menu”. The Tapas Tasting Menu is offered in the Spa from 3:00 to 8:00 pm and in the Salon from 3:00 to 6:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday. Spa guests can choose two specialty 25-minute tapas treatments inspired by the season for the special rate of USD 99.00. Salon guests can select from a seasonal Martini and Manicure or Margarita and Makeup option for USD 75.00.

DINING

Valley restaurateur Jimmy Carlin and restaurant veteran Ernie Vega have teamed up with entrepreneur David Loaney to create the Maven Hospitality Group. Their first concept together, The Strand Urban Italian recently opened to the public in downtown Phoenix’s CityScape. The Strand is a concept that this group believes will set a new standard in fast casual Italian dining. The Strand’s menu features a bruschetta bar, pizzettas, cooked to order pastas, stuffed sandwiches, fresh seasonal salads, grilled entrees, and their signature pizcotti and zeppolini desserts. The Strand offers a value-driven dining experience of average of about $10 per guest.

Known for breathtaking views and stunning patio sunsets, The Terrace Room lounge at Different Pointe of View has introduced happy hour specials on Sundays and Mondays, as the lounge extends their hours to seven days a week. The Terrace Room lounge is featuring a “5 at 5” happy hour, which offers $5 well, wine and beer selections starting at 5 p.m. through 8 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays. With the new business hours, guests can enjoy the incomparable luxury and atmosphere of the mountaintop dining destination of Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort when the full dining room is not open. In addition to the drink specials, The Terrace Room features delectable small bites including citrus-poached prawns, spicy braised Cedar River beef, and steamed Penn Cove mussels.

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa is proud to announce Kai and Ko’Sin Restaurants’ newest cocktail menus. With a wide array of offerings, many of the cocktails highlight native and local ingredients and all are sure to please the palate.

El Chorro offers one-of-a-kind venue for meetings. Following a multimillion dollar renovation in 2010 that resulted in the addition of nine distinctive meeting and event spaces, one of the Valley’s favorite places for dining and social gatherings has become known as one of its best locations for business meetings and special events. Located at the base of Camelback and Mummy Mountains in Paradise Valley since 1934, El Chorro now offers an unrivaled choice of flexible, on-site venues in an atmosphere that combines its rich history with stunning mountain views.

ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho continues its tastings events through the spring featuring wines by Erath, Ferrari-Carano, and more, with alcohol from Jack Daniels, Sailor Jerry, and others. Chose from the “Ho Wine Experience”, every Wednesday night from 5:00 to 7:00 in the ZuZu Lounge, enjoy a tasting, meet a representative from a top winery, learn how the wine is made, and get the featured pour at a special price all night; or “Saturday SHOwdown”, from 5:00 to 7:00 on Saturday nights, enjoy tastings in the lobby bar. A different drink is featured each night, created by ZuZu’s expert mixologists. It’s also on special all night in the lounge. Singer/songwriter Jack Young will be performing on the patio from 7:00 to 9:30 most dates.

Arizona’s “Best New Restaurant” expands opening a hidden cocktail laboratory upstairs. Despite already solidifying a place on Esquire magazine’s esteemed restaurants “Not To Miss” list in 2011 and dozens of other local accolades, Citizen Public House continues to shake things up in Arizona. The gang is set to open a new intimate cocktail experience destined to catapult Sonoran culinary culture to stratospheric new heights. Part mad scientist’s laboratory, part hidden-entrance lounge, Citizen R+D (research and development) opens to the Mecca of upscale cocktails, a hidden gem that takes the art of mixology to an unprecedented level. In a sleek, remodeled upstairs lounge set apart from the “Public,” guests of Citizen R+D will imbibe mad mixologist/partner Rich Moe’s ambitious, constantly-evolving collection of concoctions. The opening menu is $9 – $15 per handcrafted drink.

The latest addition historic downtown Chandler’s dining and nightlife scene has barely opened its doors for business, and Valley foodies are already singing its praises. Vintage 95 is co-owned by Gavin Jacobs and partners Craig and Tricia. Vintage 95 offers a sophisticated-yet-affordable comfort food and an impressive global wine selection, the restaurant and lounge lures guests for ladies night out, a casual nibble ‘n nosh lunch, an intimate dinner or a comfortable midweek happy hour, as well as weekly live entertainment and regular live events. Chef Wahlberg’s menu items include eight varieties of bruschetta, gourmet flatbreads, soups, salads and sandwiches available for lunch or dinner.

For more information on any of these events or updates, please contact the
Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau Media Department.

Media Contacts:

Douglas MacKenzie
Director of Communications
(602) 452-6250
dmackenzie@visitphoenix.com

Trish Hendrickson
Communications Coordinator
(602) 452-6249
thendrickson@visitphoenix.com

###

Maralyn D. Hill

The Epicurean Explorer

President, International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association

Editor-at-Large, CityRoom

Contributor: The Epoch Times, Spa Review Magazine, Global Writes, JustLuxe

Columnist: Big Blend Magazines,

Blogs: Where and What in the World & Success with Writing

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Press Releases | No Comments »

What’s New in Greater Phoenix?

Wednesday, May 4th, 2011 — posted by Maralyn D. Hill
 

downtown phoenix AZ

Downtown Phoenix Arizona - Courtesy of the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau

May 2011

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH’S EDITION

• Take advantage of summer promotions at several Valley properties.
• The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is now an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.
• Major League Baseball will host a series of charitable initiatives and activities leading up to the 82nd MLB All-Star Game in Phoenix July 8-12.

 

 

 
 

RESORT NEWS
 

The Arizona Biltmore is once again staging the summer-long Hollywood & Wine festival, offering non-stop fun, Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, with celebrity bands in concert, Hollywood professionals revealing their creative secrets, movie screenings, Shakespeare theater productions and more. Celebrity wines will be featured in wine tastings and in the resort’s restaurants. Special summer classic room rates start at just $109 per night.

Enjoy summer fun and a Happily Ever After Summer Getaway at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Plan a Dreamworks-inspired Happily Ever After Summer Getaway complete with the magic of Shrek-themed fun, and enjoy rates from $249 a night with a $100 Resort Credit for stays May 29th – September 11th, 2011. Plus, customize your stay and add a Westin Kierland “FUN Pack” to your package.  New this summer, FUN Packs allow your family to choose a theme or enhancement to your package.

The all-suite Arizona Grand Resort is offering the new Summer Splash package, which provides space to stretch out this summer without stretching your budget. Package includes a Resort King Suite from $169 per night, with a $50 nightly resort credit good for dining, golf and spa. The package is valid May 27-September 5, 2011.  Their luxury resort suites are generously-sized at 540 square feet.  Each has a full bedroom w/bathroom, separate living room and private balcony or patio.

The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix is nestled in the midst of the Camelback Corridor – the exclusive dining and shopping district of Phoenix to all within walking distance of our front door. Get away for a weekend and enjoy their exclusive Reconnect package where you stay in deluxe accommodations for two nights and receive a $50 credit or extend to three nights and receive a $100 credit.

It’s your fling, do your thing at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa with a great summer value getaway from June 17 to Sept. 6. The Family Fling & Swing package offers rates starting from $149 if booked by June 15 or from $159 starting June 16 and includes a $50 resort credit daily, unlimited golf after 11 a.m. daily, kids 12 and under eat free at Blue Sage, free appetizer or dessert with purchase of an entrée atTuscany or Meritage Steakhouse, 10% off retail purchases at Marriott-managed outlets throughout the resort, free resort fee, free Internet and free parking. The fabulous summer package is a 65% savings at Arizona’s largest luxury resort and ideal for a summer staycation.

The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa has again partnered with the LEGO® Store to offer a fun-filled and memorable summer family getaway. With four swimming pools, a huge waterslide, Cinema Splash, watermelon eating contests, the LEGO® exclusive mini-build weekends and family access to the amazing world of science at Arizona Science Center, summertime is the right time to gather your family and make plans. For this distinctive program, the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort is bringing out a LEGO expert from the LEGO Store at Chandler Fashion Center to lead a weekend workshop for a limited number of guests. Offered twice, June 18 -19 and again on July 22-23. This special engagement was designed specifically for resort guests to have a hands-on experience with guidance from LEGO experts.  Kids will learn the best assembly techniques and walk away with a unique LEGO mini-build model, each an exclusive for this event, with the date and location engraved.  In addition, the LEGO event will host an exclusive, small-scale 3-D emerging model building experience at each session.The Phoenician is offering Summer Splendors which includes guestroom accommodations, daily breakfast provided at the resort’s AAA Four Diamond II Terrazzo restaurant (up to $65 value), $100 spa credit at The Centre for Well-Being (per stay; not per person). Rates start from $379 per night; available May 15-September 10, 2011.

The Wigwam is exclusively offering Arizona residents a special resident of $109 for weekend stays and $99 for weekday stays this summer. Rates include the resort fee and access to The Wigwam’s legendary summer programming, which includes daily activities like glow night golf, poolside movies, fireside s’mores, cooking classes, wildlife animal encounters and Camp Pow Wow kids programs, as well as live weekend entertainment. Summer AZ Resident rates valid May 27- September 30, 2011.

The Hermosa Inn offers several packages this summer. In addition, LON’s and the Last Drop bar have several summer-only menus and events. Enjoy a night at LON’s which includes a one night stay for two in a casita, deluxe, or grande casita; $100 dining credit to LON’s award-winning restaurant; enhanced turndown service and breakfast for two.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain offers Sundays in Paradise series, inviting locals and resort guests to picnic on their sprawling lawn with live music and entertainment. In addition to their Sunday in Paradiseseries they introduce the value-minded Sunday Escape day spa package, for only $175. Locals can indulge with their choice of Sanctuary’s studio fitness classes with experts like fitness guru, Kara Thomas. Then, reward the body with a 60-minute massage in the award-winning Sanctuary Spa. Thereafter, enjoy the resort’s facilities until Sundays in Paradise begins at 2 p.m. On the lawn during the concert, you will be treated to Sanctuary’s gourmet picnic package which includes a cozy blanket and picnic tray to borrow, plus goodies including a bottle of wine and choice of platter inspired by Chef Beau MacMillan.

Summer at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North promises poolside relaxation, sunrise hikes to Pinnacle Peak, starry nights, and – above all – indulgent getaways with superb value. While staying at the Resort, families can enjoy the complimentary Kids for All Seasons program, open daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., for guests 5-12 years old.  Additionally, the Resort extends complimentary meals in the restaurants to children under 5 and surprises the youngest travelers with an age-specific welcome amenity.  Families also can choose from a weekly calendar of events at the Resort, including offerings such as stargazing, family hikes and “Pajama Jam,” where children enjoy pizza and a movie and parents can enjoy a night out inTalavera or Crescent Moon.

If you live green, it’s likely you’ll want to vacation green. Kimpton’s FireSky is proud to be Arizona’s only Green Seal certified stay. In addition to creature comforts, the hotel’s eco practices include a mix of recycling, composting and resource-management efforts – all of which resonate deeply with leisure and business travelers alike. Beyond being planet-friendly, the green getaway package is loco for local. Rates are from $124 June to September.

Offering environmentally aware travelers a new way to escape to the Arizona desert, W Scottsdale invites guest to experience a truly eco-chic getaway with the Green is Glam package. Green is Glam at W Scottsdale combines glamorous sustainable amenities and adventures with the opportunity to take part in a local, socially conscious activity, desert awareness excursions and enjoy green transportation and locally-sourced breakfast offerings. Wake-up each morning to an in-room breakfast featuring the freshest in locally sourced, organic and/or fair trade ingredients. Getting around while in town is also effortless and environmentally-sound with roundtrip airport transportation provided in a Tahoe Hybrid and your choice of a green rental vehicle complements of the Hertz’s Green Collection for the duration of your stay.

The perfect summer getaway with the SunSational Value Package at Radisson Fort McDowell Resortincludes a $75 per room, per night Resort credit that may be used at the Resort’s Ahnala Mesquite Room & Lounge, Poolside Cafe, in-room dining or spa and salon services at Amethyst Spa, check-ins on Friday receive 2 complimentary BBQ vouchers to be used during their stay, dive-in movies on Friday and Saturday evenings, kids 12 and under eat 99¢ breakfast, lunch or dinner with paid adult, complimentary membership in Fort McDowell Casino’s Fortune Club which includes $10 per person in casino slot play for new members, plus $5 additional for each day of your stay, reserved guests receive discounted championship golf at We Ko Pa Golf Club, 20% Off spa and salon services and deluxe accommodations featuring our exclusive Sleep Number® bed guest room.

Back to Top

 

 

 
 

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) announces that it has been accepted as an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. MIM joins more than 160 museums and cultural organizations in forty-one states, the District of Columbia, Panama, and Puerto Rico. This partnership will further the two institutions’ shared missions to broaden the public’s knowledge of science, history, world cultures, and the arts. As a part of this affiliation, the Smithsonian will be an invaluable resource for MIM in areas such as object identification, exhibition collaboration, educational programming, and sharing artifacts from its extensive collections. 

Spring is the perfect time of year to visit the Phoenix Zoo. The Bornean orangutans are enjoying their new habitat. Duchess and her family moved into their state-of-the-art exhibit and are thrilled with the large space and naturalistic environment. Come welcome them to their new home.

The W.O.N.D.E.R. (Walton Optimal Neurological Discovery Education and Research) Center is now open at the Arizona Science Center. An exploration of the original super computer – the human brain! Did you ever wonder what happens to your brain when you smell cookies, eat ice cream, read a book or give someone a compliment? The W.O.N.D.E.R. Center explains these reactions and delves deeper into the brain as we develop, the human ability to be wired for thought, brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and addiction, learning disabilities, and more. Learn how connections are made in the brain and how those connections change over time in Wired for Thought, compare different types of animal brains, including: monkey, snake, rat, and cat in the Brain Museum, Neuro Surgery Theater brought to you by Barrow Neurological Institute where guests will be able to view live brain surgeries in progress and interact with doctors through two-way communication as well as see videos of previous surgeries, touch a “real” human brain, similar in size, shape and weight of an average adult brain and so much more.

Music in Motion brings two great North Phoenix music spots together for one unforgettable evening of food, fun, libations, and some of the hottest local sounds around. And it happens one Thursday every month, through October. The fun starts at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), Phoenix’s new world-class music showplace.. Dance and groove while enjoying specialty drinks from the Music in Motion cash bar. At 9:00 p.m., the party moves up Mayo Boulevard where your MIM admission ticket and $5 gets you into theCompound Grill, North Phoenix’s most talked-about new nightspot.

Six new tenants recently joined the rapidly growing Scottsdale Quarter, a 28-acre shopping, dining and entertainment district at Scottsdale Road and Greenway-Hayden Loop. The chic center recently welcomed Carine W, Coal Burger, Diane’s Beachwear, DryBar, GapKids/babyGap, and Gap/GapBody.

Back to Top

 

 

 
 

SPORTS/GOLF
Major League Baseball (MLB) unveils “Cacti on Parade” statues to celebrate 2011 MLB All-Star Weekfestivities in Phoenix July 8-12. As part of the celebration of All-Star Week in Phoenix, the cactus will take its place alongside recent luminaries such as the Statue of Liberty, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and Mickey Mouse by being commemorated in baseball-themed statue form. The statues will be uniquely decorated with bold graphics celebrating the 2011 All-Star Game, the D-backs and each of the 30 MLB clubs and the American and National Leagues.  In addition, one of the statues will commemorate significant milestones in D-backs history.  The statues will be placed throughout the greater Phoenix area in late-May and displayed until after the 2011 MLB All-Star Game hosted at Chase Field July 12.  Specific locations and further details will be announced at a later date. 

MLB will host a series of charitable initiatives and activities leading up to the 82nd MLB All-Star Game that will leave a lasting legacy in the communities of Greater Phoenix and beyond. This MLB All-Star Summer community effort will complement the midsummer celebration of Baseball and the Arizona Diamondbacks; support children, cancer research and awareness organizations, veterans, opportunities for young people to play baseball and softball; and will highlight the importance of environmental consciousness. MLB and the D-backs will donate more than $4 million through MLB Charities and the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation to MLB All-Star projects in the Greater Phoenix area. The funds, raised from Gatorade All-Star Workout Day on Monday, July 11, will be donated to a variety of local and national charities.

The first-ever All-Star Charity Dance-A-Thon will take place on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at the Phoenix Convention Center. Participants in the All-Star Charity Dance-A-Thon will be dancing to an eclectic mix of music throughout the nine hour event which will take place from 3:00 p.m. to Midnight Arizona time. Glee’s very own acclaimed choreographer, Zach Woodlee, will lead the crowd in coordinated and spontaneous dance moves. He and other VIP guests will also serve as judges for a soon-to-be announced contest that will be open to Dance-A-Thon attendees. Attendees will have the chance to win an exclusive meet-and-greet opportunity on the set of Glee.  All event-related net proceeds will be donated equally to three charities supporting the fight against cancer — Stand Up To Cancer, the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

This summer The Boulders Golf Academy offers instruction for every type of golfer—from the scratch player to the die-hard golfer.  Taught by Donald Crawley, awarded “Best Instructor in the Valley” and LPGA instructor Jean Crawford. Also offered is Summer Quick Fix –Ideal for couples, families and friends–is a 2 day golf program that includes two-hour golf instruction; nine-hole of golf following instruction each day including cart; and Nike rental clubs, if needed.

Back to top

 

 

 
 

SPA
Sanctuary Spa at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain offers the Summer Awakening package exclusively for the summer. This package is designed to slough off the social hibernation that we all experience during the cold months, getting the body, and in turn the spirit, ready for Summer.  This three-hour package begins with Sanctuary’s sixty-minute Signature Detox Body Treatment designed to expel stored up toxins in the system leaving the body refreshed.  This is followed by the Astara Purifying Facial and then concludes with an Express Manicure and Pedicure to ensure that guests are head-to-toe ready for bathing suit weather. 

The legendary Golden Door® Spa at The Boulders Resort has added a new summer workshop to its menu:  The Golden Door Summer Wellness series which includes: (2) Fitness Classes, Lunch in the Golden Door Spa Café, including tax and gratuity, Lecture (Workshop), and  25% discount on spa services on the day of the workshop (does not include salon services.) The cost is $99/session. Afternoon Workshops, taught by certified Nutritionist Karen include themes like Weight Management Strategies, Taming the Drama in Your Life and Beyond Memory Enhancement.

Keep your cool this summer with refreshing specials in the Spa and Salon at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North.  Enjoy a Tantalizing Tangerine treatment for the ultimate summer refresher.  This treatment combines the scents of tangerine and pomegranate for an invigorating, perfect-for-summer massage and scrub combination.  This 80-minute service is offered for the price of a regular 50-minute service, or $165.

Back to top

 

 

 
 

DINING
Postino’s Craig DeMarco opens two much-anticipated midtown Phoenix enterprises, Windsor and Churn. DeMarco’s new restaurants offer unique selections. Windsor offers an extravagant bar food while Churn takes customers back to the old-school soda fountain shop days. Churn will serve homemade ice cream in eight flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, butter pecan and marble fudge. 

Hole-in-the-Wall, one of Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort’s longstanding restaurants, has unveiled a new menu that aligns with its smokehouse atmosphere. Located in an old 1940s ranch house, the historic building now serves up a hearty selection of traditional barbecue fare. Hole-in-the-Wall uses its vintage outdoor smoker and barbecue pit to prepare the mouthwatering new dishes like the “Old Kettle” Smoked Beef Brisket, 3-Chili Marinated & Grilled Tri Tip or Big Beef BBQ Ribs.

From the moment you walk in the door of Perk Eatery the smells of the famous rosemary potatoes waft through the air. The restaurant is like walking back in time to the neighborhood family restaurants we all remember. From the 50’s style charm with swivel black and stainless steel counter stools, to the French style chef’s hats darting about feverishly in the kitchen as plate after plate are turned out at warp speed. Diners wait to awaken their taste buds with specially roasted coffee, coffee that is specially roasted for Perk locally and takes a full three days before the perfect cup can be brewed. You won’t want to miss the huge greeting you receive from Pauline and Carmen, where service is center stage.

Back to Top

 

 

 
For more information on any of these events or updates, please contact the
Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau Media Department. 

 

 

Media Contacts:
Douglas MacKenzie
Director of Communications
(602) 452-6250
dmackenzie@visitphoenix.com		 Trish Hendrickson
Communications Coordinator
(602) 452-6249
thendrickson@visitphoenix.com

 

 

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Press Releases | No Comments »

What’s New in Greater Phoenix? February 2011

Wednesday, February 9th, 2011 — posted by Maralyn D. Hill
HIGHTLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH’S EDITION

• This spring, Greater Phoenix plays host to Cactus League Baseball Spring training
and welcomes back fans with several Valley properties offering Spring Training packages

• Fox Restaurant Concepts to Open The Arrogant Butcher at CityScape

• Devoured, Phoenix’s premiere culinary event returns to the Phoenix Art Museum
RESORT NEWS
Arizona Biltmore conducts Inside the Chef’s Studio classes inside their storied main kitchen. The Inside the Chef’s Studio classes are an exciting opportunity to learn from master chefs and personalities of the culinary world. Each weekend will feature one cookbook author, so each will be a unique experience with a different food focus. Another ingredient for a successful program will be the private dinners with the authors; offering an additional opportunity for the participants to learn from and spend time with the cookbook creators, they will be served on a terrace at the resort.

The AAA Four Diamond, all-suite Arizona Grand Resort is offering a Grand Experience Package perfect for Spring Breakers from Illinois to escape to the warm weather and sunshine of Phoenix.  Now through May 22, 2011, guests that book the Grand Experience package will receive a one bedroom resort suite starting from $249 per night with a nightly resort credit of $100.

The Ritz Carlton will play host to The American Cancer Hero Award Ceremony. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 29,780 individuals in Arizona were diagnosed with new cases of cancer in 2010.  As each of these individuals and their loved ones understand, the medical team involved in their care plays a critical role in their treatment journey. Each cancer treatment team is comprised of dedicated individuals who provide not only exceptional clinical care, but also the emotional support needed during such a challenging time. To pay tribute to these exceptional clinicians, Elekta has created the Arizona Cancer Heroes Initiative.

The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa is the ideal place for families looking to get away for spring break. We have something for every member of the family! Dine in the state’s most highly decorated restaurant: AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Five-Star, Kai at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort, has made history with their Native American Cuisine. Immerse yourself in an authentic cultural experience by taking an insightful tour led by the resort’s Cultural Concierge, Ginger Sunbird Martin, who is Pima, and was born and raised on the Gila River Indian Community. Restore the mind, body and spirit with Belen Stoneman, Native American Healer, at Forbes Four-Star Aji Spa at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort.   Finally, experience the scenic beauty and playability of one of Arizona’s seven golf courses on Native American land, including Troon-managed and Gary Panks designed Whirlwhind Golf Club.

The Royal Palms Resort and Spa has introduced Languages of Love, a resort-wide festival of the senses honoring Mediterranean countries that provide the inspiration for the resort’s architecture, design, gardens, ambiance, food and spa treatments. The Languages of Love experience was created so that guests would be greeted with new ways to discover romance throughout the year, continually adding surprises and new elements. Guests can fall in love over and over again.

Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel Tempe is offering Spring Break packages starting at $209. They were recently named the “Best Full Service Hotel 2010” in Arizona and  home to Fire and Spice, a southwest-inspired dining experience serving a unique blend of traditional Native American artisan recipes, the spices of Old Spain, and the distinct flavors of Old and New Mexico.

Fiesta Resort Conference Center offers March visitors a Spring Training Package: The Fiesta Resort’s Spring Training Package provides baseball fans with a comfortable, convenient “home plate” from which to catch all the exciting pre-season games.  The package includes a deluxe guestroom with hot buffet breakfast for two. The resort is within shuttle distance of Tempe Diablo Stadium, home of the California Angels, and Phoenix Municipal Stadium, home of the Oakland A’s.

Arizona’s renowned Boulders Resort has announced a first-rate upgrade to its 160 casitas, which includes a fresh interior design, new finishes, new furnishings and technology enhancements.  The cozy casitas will keep their adobe-style architecture, one of the resort’s distinguishing features and an important aspect of The Boulders’ “Sense of Place.”  But the large, residential-feeling guest rooms will be refreshed with a modern interpretation of Southwestern design.

Hotel Valley Ho has joined Valley Forward Association, which brings business and civic leaders together to convene thoughtful public dialogue on regional issues and to promote cooperative efforts to improve the environment and livability of Valley communities. The Hotel Valley Ho is currently the only hotel member.

Play Ball Spring Training at Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa. Greater Phoenix is a homerun with baseball fans who come to cheer for their favorite Cactus League teams. Not surprisingly, Kimpton’s FireSky has  got game, boasting a central location just 10 minutes from the home stadiums of the San Francisco Giants, Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks (along with easy freeway access to the fields of the 12 other ball clubs). Not to mention, the resort is walkable from Old Town’s restaurant-and-bar-packed scene – perfect for guests whose evenings have extra innings. The package is available March 1-31.

For fans of the San Francisco Giants seeking a VIP spring training experience, the swank W Scottsdale has created a fan package fit for the biggest baseball fanatics. Situated in the center of downtown Scottsdale, offering insider access to shopping, dining and nightlife, W Scottsdale’s Who’s Hitting a Home Run? includes a Cool Corner Suite, exclusive player meet and greet, on-field practice experience and transportation to and from Scottsdale Stadium, among other perks, inviting guests to get even closer to the game.

For over two decades, memories have been created on the enchanting waterways of Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa. Visitors glide along in authentic Venetian gondolas while being serenaded by singing gondoliers, transforming the waterways into a romantic Venice of the West. They proudly announce the much anticipated release of “Venice of the West,” a CD featuring the resort’s highly acclaimed gondoliers, the beauty of their voices and some of their favorite songs. CD’s can be purchased “Venice of the West” at the resort.

Hotel Valley Ho’s Romance Package is offered year-round and is the perfect Valentine’s getaway. Upon arrival, guests will receive a Red Flower aromatherapy candle. In the room, they will enjoy turndown service as well as a half-bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne with an assortment of fresh seasonal fruit. A complimentary movie may be enjoyed in bed, and breakfast in bed or at ZuZu is also included.
Back to Top
ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
Devoured is a critically acclaimed culinary event, in its first year critic’s choice for #1 culinary event in Phoenix this March.. The mission is to highlight metro Phoenix as a culinary destination.  Attendees can explore and taste a vast array of dishes from premium proprietors in one location – including tastings by Arizona premier winemakers (and global brands and international purveyors too).  Seminars hosted by foremost global wine expert & James Beard Foundation Award winner Anthony Dias Blue; a busy SubZero/Wolf Chefs Demonstration Stage; AJ’s Fine Foods Dessert Lounge, and 2 days of music (including Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers), add to the overall experience. The Dorrance Sculpture Garden at Phoenix Art Museum plays host to this unrivaled event March 12-13.

The Farm at South Mountain doesn’t offer a cozy place to stay; it does present entertaining venues that you and your family will find enjoyable for a daily get away from the city.  The Farm at South Mountain in Phoenix offers a nearby escape from the city with canopies of pecan trees and acres of grass lawns. Rich in history, the Farm invites you to explore organic gardens, three restaurants, art galleries, various shops and retreats.  Your kids will be able to show their creativity off at the Artist Studio at The Farm. Art workshops are offered, as well as, writing classes, educational lectures, youth home school classes, field trips and staff retreats.   Along with the Artist Studio, there is The Cottage where you are able to enjoy yourself and shop at the same time surrounding yourself with local artwork to admire while you are shopping and relaxing. Coming to The Farm at South Mountain will give you and your family an outer city experience without even leaving the city!

Three years after BODY WORLDS brought record crowds to the Arizona Science Center, a new blockbuster exhibition, Gunther von Hagen’s  BODY WORLDS & The Brain, is now open to the public in the Sybil B. Harrington Galleries.  For the first time in Phoenix, this new presentation of BODY WORLDS contains a special feature that unravels the mystery of the mind and secret world of the brain. BODY WORLDS & The Brain provides Arizona Science Center with a unique opportunity to enhance their educational programs and enrich people’s understanding of their bodies and visitors will encounter both the resilience and fragility of the human body, discovering how a body works when it is healthy and how it breaks down when it is not. Through its aesthetic and accessible displays, BODY WORLDS invites contemplation, study and reflection of the power and vulnerability of the human body by everyone.

A Turning Point: Navajo Weaving in the Late 20th Century opens to the public this month at the Heard Museum. Navajo weaving experienced incredible stylistic and status shifts throughout the 20th century. The Heard Museum’s new exhibit: A Turning Point, features over 30 pieces that display the incremental change in Navajo weaving that took place between the 1970s and the 1990s. The pieces will be displayed in traditional form while slightly transformed to include name artists that are exploring new aesthetics and showing in urban galleries. This event will continue through May 22.

This Valentine’s Day, learn what makes your heart race and your blood pressure sizzle – your sweet heart!Arizona Science Center has partnered with the American Heart Association to help you learn how your heart works and how to ensure healthier, longer lives for you and your loved ones. This event is free with paid general admission and takes place Feb. 14, 2011.

The Downtown Phoenix Public Market has a new shopping experience for you all you “locavores” out there. If you simply can’t make it through the weekend without some of Seacat Gardens’ haricots verts, tomatoes from One Windmill Farm, or Maya’s Farms’ fantastic field greens, don’t worry about it. Just stop over any Wednesday and stuff your bags full of local produce, cheese, farm-fresh eggs, baked goods, and much more on the way home. If you really don’t feel like cooking or don’t  have the time, go ahead and pick up some brats, soups, salads, posole, or enchiladas and hang out for a bit while you wait for the hustle and bustle to die down.

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix will be open 7 days a week during Spring Break beginning March 8th through April 3rd.  Kids will have a blast in the Museum’s  3 floors of interactive exhibits, with over 20 hands-on play activities including the 3 story tall Schuff-Perini Climber, the Noodle Forest (thousands of pool noodles hanging vertically from the ceiling) and Building Big (where you can build forts all day long and never get bored). Practice tying your shoelaces while creating your very own lacing door hangar. Put on your inventors hat and have a blast creating a mysterious substance known as Ooey Gooey Putty. Have fun searching for leprechauns and pots of gold with a Lucky Leprechaun Wand that you make yourself.

Sea Life Arizona is a 26,000 square foot aquarium designed with children in mind. Sea Life Arizona includes more than 30 display tanks in 12 different habitat zones featuring more than 5,000 sea creatures including a giant Pacific octopus, zebra sharks, clown fish, a guitar fish, and rays.

Want to get a new perspective of the Sonoran Desert? Rainbow Ryders, Inc.® has been making dreams come true for more than 29 years with memorable balloon rides over the landscapes of the scenic Southwest. Offering seasonal sunrise and sunset flights, Rainbow Ryders takes guests up and away to enjoy sweeping 360-degree views as the balloon rises and calmly floats across the sky. A unique outing perfect for your proposal or your post-nuptials getaway, this one-of-a-kind excursion includes a post-flight continental breakfast and champagne toast.

Back to Top
SPORTS/GOLF
This spring will be the first year that 15 major league baseball teams will call the Phoenix area home for theCactus League Spring Training in March: Diamondbacks, Cubs, White Sox, Indians, Reds, Rockies, Royals, Angels, Dodgers, Brewers, Athletics, Padres, Giants, Mariners, and Rangers.  Catch a game in the sunshine and visit one of the many stadiums around the Valley including Salt River Fields at Talking Stick which makes its debut. With tickets as little as $5 a game and games scheduled every day in March, it’s easy to find a comfortable spot in the grass and root for your team.

Five-time All-Star and 2001 World Series hero Luis Gonzalez will serve as the Ambassador for 2011 Major League Baseball All-Star Summer. As part of his role, Gonzalez will be involved in a series of activities on behalf of MLB in the months leading up to the Midsummer Classic and ancillary All-Star events.  Gonzalez will forever be known for his game-winning bloop single against New York Yankees pitcher Mariano Rivera in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the 2001 World Series. During that season, Gonzalez had career-highs in home runs (57), RBI (142), runs scored (128), OBP (.429) and SLG (.688). Gonzalez, a Tampa, Florida, native and 2001 Home Run Derby champion, collected 2,591 hits in the same number of games played, 354 home runs and 1,439 RBI over his 19-year career, eight of which were spent with the D-backs. He is one of 17 players in history to record at least 2,500 hits, 500 doubles, 350 home runs and 1,000 RBI in a career. During his time in the desert, he hit 224 home runs and drove in 774 runs, both all-time franchise records. Gonzalez, whose No. 20 was retired last season by the D-backs, currently serves as a special assistant to Derrick Hall, President and CEO of the D-backs.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have announced that they will host the seventh annual SUBWAY® D-backs FanFest on Feb. 12 to the general public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Chase Field. The free event will include autographs and photograph sessions with current players, coaches, alumni and broadcasters on the field at Chase Field.

LPGA Tour is making its way back to Phoenix as the Wildfire Golf Club at the J.W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa will play host for the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup The tour reportedly will run for three days, from March 18-20.

The Sonoran Desert Golf Trail is the first desert golf trail in the Valley of the Sun and features six noted public golf clubs and eight courses all located in close proximity to each other in the scenic Lower Verde Valley area. The area is comprised of the communities of Fountain Hills, Rio Verde, Tonto Verde, Vista Verde and the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation.  The courses included are Desert Canyon Golf Club, Eagle Mountain Golf Club, SunRidge Canyon Golf Club, Tonto Verde Golf Club, Vista Verde Golf Club andWe-Ko-Pa Golf Club.

The Boulders, ranked one of the top ten golf courses in the country, has added a new Short Game personalized instruction class to their Golf Academy program: Scoring Zone Series. This one-hour session includes: Putting; stroke mechanics; distance control; green reading; Chipping: solid contact; loft and roll; Pitching: technique, trajectory; Sand: greenside bunker splash shot; and complimentary Nike rental clubs. Other Golf Academy classes include Golf Simplified-a simple, yet practical hands-on instruction technique that incorporates digital video analysis, Accelerate the Learning Course–A two-hour golf school, Introduction to Golf-A non-intimidating introduction to the game, this program takes place in a small group setting designed for the new golfer and Fore Ladies-introduction to the game of golf in a beautiful and non-intimidating setting.

Back to top
SPA

Aji Spa at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa is proud to name Bates Tennis Services as the new on-site tennis academy and instructional team offering a wide array of services including personalized coaching, doubles and singles tactical drills, comprehensive packaging and unparalleled customer attention.

A new year brings new beginnings and new resolutions to improve everyday lives.  Agave Spa at Westin Kierland Resort & Spa offers a great start with new fitness and salon packages and special Agave Spa therapies. The new options for spa-goers include the eight-week “Agave Body Transformation” health and fitness package, “New Year, New You” Agave Salon makeover package, 28 days of meditation and special guided meditation sessions with Damian Vaughn and the Vaughn Center and a new “Fresh Start Renewal” Vichy Therapy. The Westin Kierland Resort’s Agave Spa has just kicked-off their new “Agave Body Transformation” program to help participants become the best version of themselves in a “Biggest Loser-like” challenge.

After more than 15 years in its current location, the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa at Biltmore Fashion Park relocated to a new state-of-the-art facility. While guests experience new amenities and a new environment, they can be sure that they will continue to receive the same impeccable guest service and technical expertise that they have come to associate with Red Door Spas. With close to 5,000 square-feet dedicated to beauty, harmony and well-being, the new state-of-the-art facility is reflective of the contemporary yet elegant, architecturally-inspired interior design that has become synonymous with the Red Door Spa experience.

The Spa at Camelback Inn is offering a new signature Natural AgaveToning Wrap, an organic firming treatment that uses FarmHouse Fresh products and implements methods dating back to the Aztecs, who used agave nectar as a protective balm for skin infections. A fine-grain sea salt exfoliates the body to remove impurities before prickly pear cactus gel is massaged into the skin to improve circulation. Once a full scalp massage releases facial pressure points, agave nectar oil saturates skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

The Golden Door Spa at The Boulders introduces a new facial for spring, the Vitamin C Facial Experience By Hylunia. The facial includes a radiant papaya enzyme exfoliation and Vitamin C peel, followed by a soothing anti-oxidant mask.  The Vitamin C Facial utilizes a holistic, green, organic and vegan skincare line that is free of harmful and potentially harmful ingredients.

Spa Avania at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa is kicks off their new year with “New Beginnings,” with special treatments that renew, refresh and revitalize. The Avania Active Massage is the perfect massage to complement an active lifestyle, combining active stretching and traditional therapeutic massage techniques. The Monticelli Mud Wrap detoxifies and hydrates; this warm wrap renews the skin and relaxes the mind with a full-body exfoliation, scalp and face massage and toning hydrating cream application. The Renewal Facial is an extraordinary treatment that resurfaces, revitalizes and deeply hydrates the skin, while stimulating a cellular awakening and the microcirculation of the skin. The Moroccanoil™ Ritual refreshes and invigorates the hair and scalp, topped off with a paraffin hand massage treatment.

Back to Top
DINING
Entrepreneur and foodie-extraordinaire Sam Fox is at it again. This time, with an entirely new concept for his restaurant group, Fox Restaurant Concepts, called The Arrogant Butcher. Opening in the burgeoning downtown Phoenix CityScape on February 21, the 7,500 square foot space will be a see-and-be-seen spot for everyone from the buttoned-down business crowd having power lunches and after-work cocktails to event goers and downtown hipsters enjoying late-night food and drinks.

The West Valley now has a new destination for fresh, locally-sourced dining with the grand opening ofLitchfield’s at The Wigwam. Replacing the resort’s former signature restaurant Red’s Steakhouse, Litchfield’s will be open for dinner nightly with a menu offering fresh Arizona cuisine at approachable prices. Litchfield’s will feature farm-to-table fare focused on seasonal cooking and ingredients that are grown, harvested and produced from sustainable and local Arizona farms and artisans. Playing an integral role in developing the concept of Litchfield’s, James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Bianco, behind the famed Pizzeria Bianco, also provided inspirations for the menu. Litchfield’s menu reflects Bianco’s appreciation for local resources.

High-end resort restaurants seem to be a thing of the past, replaced now with steakhouses and more casual venues.  Not so at Royal Palms – T. Cook’s has refused to change what made it successful. This past December, the restaurant was named the Best Hotel Restaurant in Phoenix by Zagat’s. This gorgeous-in-all-seasons staple features enchanting Southwestern-style décor and uses the freshest ingredients in its far-from-ordinary gourmet Mediterranean cuisine.

Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain continues to garner attention as a hub for good food and drink.  Guests and locals can shake off the end-of-weekend blues with its ongoing “Mixology 101” classes at jade bar.  Featuring the barman prowess of Jason Asher, Sanctuary is educating locals and travelers on classic cocktails and unique libations.  The program is designed as a fun and affordable activity for resort guests and area residents, creating a forum to explore the mysteries of high-concept cocktails.

Prado Restaurant at InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa recently announced that Peter DeRuvo has been named as its new Chef de Cuisine. As the head chef of the resort’s signature AAA Four Diamond restaurant, DeRuvo will continue Prado’s commitment to working with local farmers and purveyors to bring the freshest and best of ingredients straight from the farm to the table, while prepared with the authenticity, elegant simplicity and international flair for which DeRuvo is so well-known

Back to Top
For more information on any of these events or updates, please contact the
Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau Media Department.

Media Contacts:
Douglas MacKenzie
Director of Communications
(602) 452-6250
dmackenzie@visitphoenix.com		 Trish Hendrickson
Communications Coordinator
(602) 452-6249
thendrickson@visitphoenix.com

###

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Press Releases | No Comments »

What’s New in Greater Phoenix? January 2011

Friday, January 7th, 2011 — posted by Maralyn D. Hill

HIGHTLIGHTS For January

The SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500™ will kick off Phoenix International Raceway’s 2011 event season
The return of Heard Museum’s 21st Annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest
Experience Corks & Cactus, where guests are able to sample, sip and savor their way through the splendor of the Desert Botanical Garden

RESORT NEWS
The Westin Phoenix Downtown is set to open in March 2011. It will be the second Westin to open in Phoenix. Located just one block of the Phoenix Convention Center in the 26-story Freeport McMoRan building, the hotel will occupy nine floors with 242 rooms and offer all the amenities and services known by the Westin brand. Guests can look forward to a tranquil urban retreat with stunning city views.

This March the Wigwam Golf Resort will transform in to one the Valley’s MLB spring training headquarters. Located just minutes from five of the Phoenix area’s MLB spring training stadiums, baseball fans from across the country will make the Wigwam their home base for pure spring training fun. Surrounding stadiums host Cactus League teams including the LA Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, Kansas City Royals and the Cincinnati Reds.  For the 2011 season, “Play Baseball at the Wigwam” will be offered for the month of March. Each weekend, guests can take a swing at Home Run Derby, enjoy a Sunset Poolside Movie and live entertainment and dancing into the night.  Daily activities for all ages will include team t-shirt decorating, relay challenges, pool games and a teen gaming room. Starting at $259, the resort is offering a “Spring Training Steal Third” package that includes a third night free, with the purchase of two. The resort intends to unveil the completion of a $7 million rejuvenation project. Spring training fans will be able to enjoy the resort’s new main pool with separate kids and adult zones, including two new waterslides and water play features; an outdoor plaza for entertainment, al fresco dining and bar/lounge; and all new restaurants focused on fresh locally-grown produce and products featuring menus and concepts developed by celebrity chef Chris Bianco.

There’s nothing like Valentine’s Day to strike fear in the heart of the American male. Guys, relief is on the way: The Hermosa Inn, a jewel of a desert hideaway, is offering one-stop shopping that is certain to please: A Valentine’s Day Package that includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe or Grande Casita (room types that have a bathtub), a romantic “Sweetheart Menu”dinner (alcohol not included) for two at LON’s, the acclaimed restaurant at The Hermosa, a bubble bath with rose petals (drawn while you’re at dinner), a bottle of champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries, breakfast for two the next morning, and a spa gift basket for her. The “Sweetheart Menu”, a special pre-set menu for Valentine’s, will be offered Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings in addition to the regular menu. Only the Sweetheart Menu will be available on Monday, Feb. 14. The package is available for February 11 through February 14, 2011.

Wine-down this winter at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale with a series of “Taste Talavera” evenings, featuring artfully crafted cuisine accompanied by specialty pairings.  Enjoy local Arizona wine and cuisine with a Native American twist with January’s featured vineyard, or opt for bold California selections and grapes grown with a strong commitment to the environment in both February and March. Each “Taste” evening feature a four-course tasting menu coupled with pairings from a guest purveyor, who will roam from table to table throughout the night.

Hotel Valley Ho has won the Good Earthkeeping Award for the large property category at the Arizona Hotel & Lodging Association’s 2010 Stars of the Industry Awards. The Good Earthkeeping Award recognizes one small and one large lodging property that have each developed a culture toward integrating environmental management practices that improve everyday operations and the bottom line, while maintaining quality service and meeting guest expectations. Hotel Valley Ho has a number of green initiatives. In-room linens are cleaned with non-harmful hydrogen peroxide instead of bleach; no herbicides or pesticides are used for landscaping; cooking oil is recycled; all shower heads, toilets, and faucets are low-flow; local ingredients are used whenever possible; and an average of five tons of material is recycled each month. Additionally, over 20,000 tons of waste was saved from landfills when Westroc restored the hotel instead of tearing it down, prior to its 2005 re-opening.

Play Ball Spring Training at Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa. Greater Phoenix is a homerun with baseball fans who come to cheer for their favorite Cactus League teams. Not surprisingly, Kimpton’s FireSky has got game, boasting a central location just 10 minutes from the home stadiums of the San Francisco Giants, Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks (along with easy freeway access to the fields of the 12 other ball clubs). Not to mention, the resort is walkable from Old Town’s restaurant-and-bar-packed scene – perfect for guests whose evenings have extra innings.

Summer meeting packages at The Boulders Resort allows guests to experience Arizona’s finest desert hideaway at reduced rates. The Boulders Resort announces a new value-added package for the summer season. Meeting guests can take advantage of the special offer between June 15 through September 4, 2011. The Boulders Summer Meeting Package includes: Three nights: room, tax, and resort fee; Three continental breakfasts in meeting room; Three Lunch events in meeting room; One Group Dinner (including Iced Tea or Water); Choice of one comp activity per attendee (limited options); 15% off all audio visual equipment; Complimentary meeting space. The all-inclusive package is available for groups from 10-350.
ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
Experience the sounds of gamelan from Bali at Musical Instrument Museum’s (MIM) gamelan workshop! This event will occur every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month through 5/19/11. Led by curatorial assistant Colin Pearson, these workshops will include an introduction to Balinese culture and music, and experience playing a set of authentic Balinese instruments. Musicians and non-musicians ages 12 and up will enjoy this unique musical experience.

Heard Museum’s 21st Annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest is one of the Indian Country’s most unique sports – the dazzling performances of the men and women who compete for the chance to call himself or herself the World Champion Hoop Dancer. This event combines artistry, sheer athleticism and cultural traditions to create an exciting, colorful and suspenseful competition. For many years, the intertribal hoop dance has expanded to incorporate new and creative designs and extremely intricate footwork. Each dancer presents a unique variation of the intertribal hoop dance, weaving in aspects of his or her distinct tradition and culture. Individual routines are presented using as few as four to as many as 50 hoops, which are manipulated to create a variety of designs including animals, butterflies and globes. This event takes place Saturday and Sunday, February 5-6, 2011.

Three years after BODY WORLDS brought record crowds to the Arizona Science Center, a new blockbuster exhibition,Gunther von Hagens’ BODY WORLDS & The Brain, will open to the public January 21 in the Sybil B. Harrington Galleries. For the first time in Phoenix, this new presentation of BODY WORLDS contains a special feature that unravels the mystery of the mind and secret world of the brain.“BODY WORLDS & The Brain provides Arizona Science Center with a unique opportunity to enhance our educational programs and enrich people’s understanding of their bodies,” said Chevy Humphrey, President & CEO. “Visitors will encounter both the resilience and fragility of the human body, discovering how a body works when it is healthy and how it breaks down when it is not. Through its aesthetic and accessible displays, BODY WORLDSinvites contemplation, study and reflection of the power and vulnerability of the human body by everyone.”

Experience Corks & Cactus, where guests are able to sample, sip and savor their way through the splendor of the Desert Botanical Garden. Corks & Cactus blends boutique wines, gourmet appetizers and desert beauty into a delightful weekend event. Talented musical entertainment will accent the event as guests stroll the Garden paths. Visit with representatives from a variety of wineries and purchase a bottle or case. All wine purchased at the event directly benefits the Garden. This event takes place on February 26.

Prohibition Era Chicago, bath tub gin and 1920’s Jazz come roaring back with a vengeance when the legendary Broadway musical CHICAGO at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. The show plays through February 12, 2011. The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre presents a wide variety of the finest professional entertainment for all ages in an atmosphere of casual elegance.
SPA

VH Spa at Hotel Valley Ho offers “New Year, New Body, New You” Event. Guests of this special one-day event will enjoy two hours of treatments, a fitness class, a New You workshop, and a variety of delicious food and drink. .Everyone starts the New Year with good intentions, but by the end of January the focus starts to get lost. On Sunday, January 23, VH Spa guests can refresh their goals at the “New Year, New Body, New You” event. Spa goers will choose their own special emphasis – beauty, bodywork, fitness, or stress reduction. They will attend a “New You” workshop and a specialized fitness class, and choose two 30-minute mini-treatments. Refreshments catered by Hotel Valley Ho can be enjoyed throughout the day. Also included is access to the spa and hotel facilities, a complimentary fingernail polish change, and a gift certificate for a 60-minute service on a future day.

You’ll be teased, twisted and tangled as top hair salons compete for the Supreme Salon title! Join W Scottsdale and celebrity host Ben Mollin from the Bravo TV show “Sheer Genius” to cheer on local salons that will reveal some of the craziest and uniquehair creations. Hair Wars will take place poolside at WET on January 20.
SPORTS/GOLF
Greater Phoenix is home to Cactus League Baseball Spring Training. There are 15 MLB teams that train here in the valley: The Anaheim Angels, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies and Texas Rangers conduct their annual spring-training programs in the metro area. In 2011, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick will welcome its first season with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies. Go to one of the many stadiums around the valley to enjoy the great weather in March with a comfortable spot in the grass to help root for your team. Take advantage to get up close to your favorite players and autographs after the game. So, visit and help your team get ready for the season. Games are scheduled every day in March. Tickets start as little as $5 a game. See you at the ballpark!

The SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500™ will kick off Phoenix International Raceway’s 2011 event season, featuring races in NASCAR’s three top series the weekend of February 25-27. Race fans can expect great entertainment and value. The SUBWAY Fresh Fit 500™ event weekend will also feature the Bashas’ Supermarkets 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Saturday, Feb. 26 and the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race.

The 56th Annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show takes place February 17-27, 2011 at Westworld. The show has grown to nearly 2000 horses bringing top owners, trainers and breeders from around the world for a chance to compete and win. This is one of the largest and most prestigious Arabian horse show in the world.

The 2011 RoadRunner Regional Rodeo takes place over the weekend February 18-20 hosted by Arizona Gay Rodeo Association. It’s going to be a great rodeo with fun, games and thrills for all. Enjoy Cowboy cooks outs, dancing, live entertainment as well as Cowboy karaoke finals.

Want to get new perspective of the Sonoran Desert? Rainbow Ryders, Inc.® has been making dreams come true for more than 29 years with memorable balloon rides over the landscapes of the scenic Southwest. Offering seasonal sunrise and sunset flights, Rainbow Ryders takes guests up and away to enjoy sweeping 360-degree views as the balloon rises and calmly floats across the sky. A unique outing perfect for your proposal or your post-nuptials getaway, this one-of-a-kind excursion includes a post-flight continental breakfast and champagne toast.

For more information on any of these events or updates, please contact the
Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau Media Department.

Media Contacts:
Douglas MacKenzie
Director of Communications
(602) 452-6250
dmackenzie@visitphoenix.com		 Trish Hendrickson
Communications Coordinator
(602) 452-6249
thendrickson@visitphoenix.com

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Press Releases | No Comments »

  Older Posts->