Food + Beverage

Chocolate Goodness

Show Some Love with these Gluten-Free Chocolate Lava Cakes Article and Photography by Rebecca Taig There is something decadent about molten chocolate lava cakes—that dark chocolate cake on the outside with warm, gooey chocolate ganache inside. Restaurateur Jean-Georges Vongerichten created the first chocolate lava cakes. Even today, decades after the introduction of the delightful little cakes, they almost seem magical when we cut into the warm cake and watch that chocolatey goodness ooze...

Food + Beverage

A Family Affair

Family Catering Business Fat Freddy's Focuses on Putting Best Food Forward Article by Gretchen Pahia | Photography by Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography LLC Not everyone has the inclination, know-how, or time to cook a big feast for a party or event. That’s where caters come in. There are plenty of catering options in the Valley, but not all can tout being family-owned and operated. Freddy and Eric Renstrom are the proud team behind Fat Freddy’s Catering. The father-and-son duo...

Food + Beverage

Love Language of Food

Local Chefs Add a Pinch of Love to These North Peoria and Arrowhead Eateries Article by Gretchen Pahia | Photography by Nichole Eckman Speaking the love language of food is one that many people understand, and when it comes to dining at locally owned restaurants, there are many delicious options. Here in North Peoria and Arrowhead, several local chefs put in a real-life labor of love to ensure we all enjoy our dining experiences. Here are some of our suggestions for must-check-out hot spots. ...

Health + Wellness

FACE FOUNDRIÉ

Kickstart Your Beauty Routine for 2024 Article by Susan Lanier-Graham | Photography by FACE FOUNDRIÉ FACE FOUNDRIÉ ( FaceFoundrie.com ) recently unveiled a new menu to kickstart your beauty routine for the new year. The facial bar has added cutting-edge facials, enhancements to services, and a new product line designed to help you feel your best while achieving skincare goals. FACE FOUNDRIÉ was built on the foundation that a modernized skin regimen should be attainable, affordable, and...

Food + Beverage

Your Financial Health

Start the New Year with a Financial Checkup Article by Susan Lanier-Graham Marty Guzman of Independent Wealth Management & Insurance Services ( IndependentWealthMgt.com ) encourages you to focus on financial health in the new year.  How can we ensure we are financially healthy? We see a physician and get a yearly checkup to ensure we are in top physical shape. Getting a financial checkup annually or after any major life event is equally important. That evaluation can encompass many...

Life + Culture

One Step Coyotes

Adults with Intellectual Disabilities Get the Chance to Play Hockey in Peoria Article by Gretchen Pahia | Photography by One Step Coyotes As we kick off a new year, Peoria residents may be seeking ways to support different groups in the Valley. One group that could use your support in the new year is One Step Coyotes, an adaptive hockey team that is part of One Step Behind ( OSBI.org ), a non-profit organization providing innovative programs for adults with intellectual disabilities.   ...

Home + Design

Inaugural North Peoria Home Show

Join Us for a Day of Inspiration and Innovation! Article by Susan Lanier-Graham Welcome to the inaugural North Peoria Home Show hosted by North Peoria Lifestyle, Croft & Co. Lending ( Facebook.com/AZLocalMLO ), Vitalant ( Vitalat.org ), and Cantina Gueros ( CantinaGueros.com ). It's January. A new year. It's time for a new start or revamping the old. There's no better place to get started than with your own home. Whether you're looking to build, remodel, update a room, turn your outdoor...

Auto + Marine

2024 Mercedes GLS 580 4MATIC

A stylish SUV that takes your adventures to new heights Article by Susan Lanier-Graham The new 2024 Mercedes GLS 580 4MATIC offers an unforgettable driving experience with effortless style and ingenious new features.  Sleek Exterior The new radiator grille sits boldly in a high-gloss black surround, offering a sleek front. At the back, the LED taillights showcase an illuminated signet.  MANUFAKTUR Alpine Grey is a sleek new color available only in the 2024 GLS.  Masterful Interior ...

Life + Culture

Sneak Peek at VAI Resort

Arizona's Largest Resort to Open in Glendale in Late 2024 Article by Susan Lanier-Graham | Photography by VAI Resort A new resort, the largest in Arizona, is opening in Glendale in late 2024. VAI Resort ( VAIResort.com ) recently unveiled stunning design photos. Led by visionary Scott Hillig, President of Design and Development for VAI Resort, the property's philosophy revolves around creating a unique and experiential environment that showcases the seamless integration of entertainment...

Food + Beverage

Gluten-Free Soft Ginger Molasses Cookies

Delicious holiday cookies for everyone Article and Photography by Rebecca Taig DRY INGREDIENTS 2 cups + 2 TBLS gluten-free flour 2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1 TBLS ground ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp ground cloves WET INGREDIENTS 10 TBLS unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated white sugar 1/3 cup, unsulphured molasses 1 large egg, room temperature 2 tsp vanilla extract FOR ROLLING 1/4 cup granulated white sugar ...