Member Spotlight: Main Gate Square

Posted on May 15, 2012 by Deanna

A True Urban Historic Treasure in Tucson

The Marshall Foundation, founded in 1930, is one of the only private foundations in the U.S. that operates solely through real estate. It has preserved the area west of the University of Arizona as an historic, pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly retail and dining district known as Main Gate Square. Under the guardianship of General Manager Jane McCollum for the past nine years, the foundation assets have been improved and expanded to include more retail, restaurant and office space in addition to an urban oasis garden. “One of my favorite improvements,” says McCollum, “is the addition of over 100 native plants from Dragoon, Arizona around the district.”

The foundation’s charter mandates that it give 5% of its fair market value away annually. During McCollum’s tenure the growth and success of Main Gate Square has doubled its annual giving from $500,000 to $1M. In 2011 about $750,000 was given to the University of Arizona to fund student scholarships and the College of Education’s Worlds of Words program. The other $250,000 was granted to non-profits in Pima County, mainly for educational programing.

The district has been ideal for commercial enterprises since the turn of last century due to its location at the main gate of the University of Arizona and being at the end of the trolley line. The area is an historic and modern treasure in Tucson offering shopping, dining and events. The modern district centered at Geronimo Plaza, in the 1920s was the Zuni Lodge, a motel made up of casitas and a lodge, now a local Mediterranean restaurant. The Marshall Foundation also acquired the Geronimo Hotel which houses a chiropractor, Irish Pub as well as offices. This acquisition allowed for an urban park to be added adjacent to the Geronimo Plaza.

These days McCollum thoughtfully recruits and approves new tenants to inhabit the historic and modern buildings for a healthy mix of familiar brands and unique, local businesses. She asserts that it is the local merchants that attract people to the area. As a traveler, she seeks out the local flavor in cities around the country and wants to maintain a unique district that attracts tourists, locals and students here in Tucson.

In 2008, Main Gate Square won a Sonoran Institute Building for the Best award. “Building For the Best Awards salute innovative and responsible architects, builders, owners and developers who are making our community a better place to live,” said Luther Propst, executive director of the Sonoran Institute.

McCollum has increased events in the area to keep folks coming during the construction of the Modern Streetcar which will run west on University Blvd from Park to 4th Avenues. This Friday, May 18 enjoy Domingo DeGrazia perform Flamenco music during Friday Night LIVE!, a free summer jazz concert series. Visitors can enjoy live music from any of the Geronimo Plaza restaurant patios. The jazz series is every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month through August and features local musicians.

McCollum is leading the district merchants in celebrating the construction and the coming of the Streetcar in 2013 by booking events and collaborating with Local First, 4th Avenue Merchants Association and Downtown Tucson Partnership. As the second largest land owner in the area after the University, the Marshall Foundation has, in McCollum’s words, “A lot of skin in the game,” when it comes to construction and the changes to come for the West University area. The Foundation is committed to supporting its tenants throughout and looks forward to a new modern era.

Main Gate Square is the eastern most boundary of the Small Wonders Map to come out later this year and is home to several LFA member businesses. With the current construction of the Modern Streetcar through the district, the balance of public and private multi-modal forms of transportation will be restored to the area. The area has stayed true to its roots while working for a continued vital urban center.

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Fuerza Local Building Momentum

Posted on May 15, 2012 by Erica

Have you heard the news about Fuerza Local, Local First Arizona’s effort to reach out to the Spanish-speaking community?  The group was launched in March of this year, and has been gaining momentum ever since!

“Obviously the Latino business community is an enormous factor in the health of the local economy in the state of Arizona,” said Local First Arizona director Kimber Lanning in a recent Arizona Republic article.  By encouraging the Latino community to support local businesses around Arizona, Local First Arizona is multiplying its impact in ensuring the strength of small, independent businesses across the state.

Now with over 50 business members, Fuerza Local is working to reach out to more businesses through networking events and mixers.  You can read the coverage of the most recent mixer below:

New group aids Latino businesses 

Business guru and supporter Kimber Lanning is expanding the reach of the non-profit that advocates a “buy local” philosophy to help Arizona-based Hispanic businesses promote their products and increase their outreach.

The new Fuerza Local has been established to help businesses build a network that can promote their products.

So far, more than 50 Latino-owned and -operated businesses have joined Fuerza Local, she said.

Lanning expected more to join at Wednesday night’s mixer in west Phoenix. She described it as an opportunity for business owners to learn more about Fuerza Local’s abilty to help them grow their businesses…

Read the rest of the article at the Arizona Republic.

Get updates from Fuerza Local on their Facebook page.

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This Week’s Shift Recommendation: Home A/C

Posted on May 10, 2012 by Erica

Every week, we make a suggestion for how you can easily shift the way you shop and support local businesses! Here is this week’s SHIFT recommendation:


Being proactive with your home’s air conditioning unit is much better than returning to find an over-heated home! Call your local air conditioning business to have your A/C unit checked out.

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Certified Local Fall Festival is on the Move!

Posted on May 9, 2012 by Erica

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Kimber Lanning
kimber@localfirstaz.com
602.956.0909, ext 5

Eighth Annual Certified Local Fall Festival Is On The Move!
New Downtown Phoenix location allows more space to showcase local business

Phoenix, Arizona (May 9, 2012) – After seven amazing years at the Duck & Decanter’s Camelback location, Local First Arizona’s annual festival of all things local will move to Downtown Phoenix’s Portland Place, a mini-park located on Portland Street between Third and Central Avenues. This beautiful green space will allow the Certified Local Fall Festival to better accommodate the many local businesses who want to be a part of the Festival as well as allow more room for attendees to stroll, shop, eat and be entertained in a unique urban setting. The Festival will be held on Saturday, November 10 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

This transition is a big move for Local First Arizona and is indicative of the rapid growth of the organization. “The Mettler’s, who own the Duck and Decanter, are like family to us – they have been with us through thick and thin and they are helping us with this transition because we have just outgrown the space at our old location. They are outstanding event organizers and we are so lucky to still have them with us,” explained Kimber Lanning, Director of Local First. “We fully expect to have the same vibe, but this will allow us to include more food, more retail, more local beers and wines – it will just be the next step for us to grow an already successful event.”

Voted “Best Free Festival” in 2011’s New Times Best Of Phoenix awards, this family friendly festival has a street fair atmosphere and has drawn upwards of 6,000 attendees in past years. The event is open to the public and will offer a variety of local businesses, restaurants, live music and children’s activities. Previous vendors include a variety of businesses that are unique to Arizona like Bookmans, Practical Art, Zia Records, Frances Boutique, Smeeks Candy Shop, Kidstop Toys, Pink House Boutique, Strawberry Hedgehog, Desert Song Yoga, Noble Beast Pet Boutique, Hubbard Family Swim School, Postino, Spinato’s Pizza, The Parlor, St. Francis, Urban Cookies, America’s Taco Shop, Changing Hands Bookstore, and Green New American Vegetarian. This year’s event will add a food truck court, an expanded beer and wine garden and more fun arts, crafts and games for kids. Live music will be provided by Arizona musicians and the first 500 attendees will receive gift bags. A raffle and silent auction will raise funds for Local First and will include stay-cation packages from around the state, free dinners and tickets to Valley-wide events.he event historically has been a great place to get a jump start on holiday shopping, while attendees can enjoy some of the Valley’s best restaurants, breweries and wineries. Bring the whole family, there’s something for everyone!

Event Details

What: 8th Annual Certified Local Fall Festival presented by Local First Arizona

When: Saturday, November 10, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Portland Place, on Portland Street between Third and Central Avenues, Downtown Phoenix. Just west of the light rail stop at Roosevelt & Central.

Cost: Free to attend. Admittance to Beer & Wine Garden is $10 which includes samples of a wide variety of Arizona beers & wines. Food will be available for $1 or less.

About Local First Arizona
Founded in 2003 by Director Kimber Lanning, Local First Arizona (LFA) is the largest dues-paying alliance of independent businesses in the country, working to strengthen communities and local economies through supporting, maintaining, and celebrating locally owned businesses throughout the state of Arizona. LFA educates citizens, stakeholders, business leaders, and legislators about the significant environmental, economic, and cultural benefits of strong local economies. Visit www.localfirstaz.com for more information and a directory of locally owned businesses.

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Member Spotlight: Green Seal Cleaning with Ace

Posted on May 9, 2012 by Erica

Today’s Local First Arizona member spotlight is on ACE Building Maintenance Company:

Since everyone in the office is either sick or suffering from major allergies, we’ve become major germ-a-phobes. Our new best friends: disinfecting wipes and the person who cleans and maintains our office building. We love coming in after cleaning day when the office has been sterilized, primed, and polished; and the scent of clean emits everywhere even from the tech department cave.

We know from experience that finding a trustworthy and dependable building maintenance service is like finding the perfect hairstylist – a gem in the rough. That’s why we’re excited to share the details of Local First AZ member, Ace Building Maintenance. Since 1979, Ace has been providing a suite of janitorial and maintenance services throughout the Valley and has built its foundation on excellent service, integrity, and quality. Ace is also Green Seal Certified, which means your office or building can be serviced with the best in green cleaning initiatives, chemicals, and equipment. Take your green efforts to the next step with Ace and keep it local – give them a call with your service requests today for that good, clean feeling inside and out.

ACE Building Maintenance Company
7020 N. 55th Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85301 
623.937.3727

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Independents Week 2012: Advertising & Media Specials

Posted on May 8, 2012 by Erica

Every year, Independents Week gives us all a chance to make waves with the public in spreading the message of supporting local businesses. Our Advertising and Media Partners have put together some significant advertising discounts to make it even more affordable to get your business into the mix! Many eyes and ears will be paying attention especially during the week of July 1 through July 7, this is pretty much a Buy Local week-long holiday. As a Local First Arizona member, you get access to these significant media discounts.

Additionally, if you take advantage of any of these media specials for Independents Week, you will be entered to win a unique staycation package!  Simply email erica@localfirstaz.com and tell us which Indie Week offer you chose to use.

This list will grow as we continue to receive specials from our Media Partners.  Check back often!

Check out the offers below, click on the thumbnail image to see full size

Zocalo Tucson Magazine

**Deadline is Friday, May 25**

KJZZ 91.5 FM

**Act now before inventory runs out!**

Phoenix New Times

**Deadline is Friday, June 22 at 4pm**

Phoenix Relocation Guide

**Deadline is Sunday, June 10**


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16 Summer Kids Camps in Phoenix and Tucson

Posted on May 4, 2012 by Erica

The school year is quickly drawing to a close, and have you thought about what to do to keep your kids away from the television over the summer? An option is to enroll them in one of the many summer kids camps that will be going on throughout the state. These camps will keep your kid engaged and active, and will even teach them some new lessons!

Special thanks to Bear Essential News For Kids for putting together a comprehensive list of summer camps throughout Phoenix and Tucson! In this post, we want to highlight the Local First Arizona members that will be hosting various camps for your eager kids:

PHOENIX AREA:

Audubon Arizona: Camp Audubon Adventures
3131 S. Central Ave., Phoenix
Contact: Emily Morris – 602-468-6470 x125 – emorris@audubon.org
Treat your young adventurer to a summer of exciting explorations in the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area. Audubon Arizona’s summer camp program offers opportunities to experience and learn about nature in fun and interactive ways. Cost: $120, extended day $50 (1 week). Audubon Arizona is pleased to offer a limited numbers of scholarships.
Dates:
June 13-17: Junior Naturalists (entering 7-9 grade)
June 20-24: Junior Naturalists (entering 4-6 grade)
June 27-July 1: Bird Blitz (entering 4-6 grade)
July 11-15: Pollinator Power (entering 4-6 grade)
July 18-22: CSI Audubon (entering 4-6 grade)
8 a.m.-1 p.m. * 1-5 p.m. extended day

AZ on the Rocks Summer Camp
16447 N. 91st Street Suite105
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Contact: Stephanie@azontherocks.com
Campers will spend their day climbing, doing gymnastics, yoga, fitness training, martial arts and playing other related games and activities. Our high energy, well qualified counselors will help your child build new friendships, discover new interests and improve self-esteem, all in an inviting environment. No experience is required. Ages: 6-12 years. Lunch is provided. Half Day $275/week or Full Day $325/week. More info here.
Dates: Monday June 4-Friday August 3; Half Day 9:00a-1:00p or Full Day 9:00a-3:00p

Bookmans Entertainment Exchange
Check out Bookman’s calendar for special events throughout the summer!  For kids and teens of all ages.

Harkins Theatres Summer Movie Fun
May 28–Aug. 3
Contact: 1-800-601-4SMF (763), smf@harkins.com
The ultimate summer moviegoing program for kids. See 10 movies for $7. Children’s concession combo only $4.50. Don’t miss the fun!

Hubbard Family Sports Camps
Registration open, 6 Valley locations
Hubbard Sports Camp, established in 1998, is a co-ed multi-sport summer camp offering one week sessions to campers 4 ½ to 13 years old. Campers enjoy playing soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball, archery, swimming and many other indoor and outdoor games and activities. Hubbard Sports Camp provides snacks to all campers and lunch to all full day campers on Mondays and Fridays. Campers build character, self-esteem, and confidence through daily activities geared towards learning and fun in a caring environment. More info here.

Phoenix Center for the Arts
1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix
Contact: Joseph Benesh, 602-254-3100, j.benesh@phoenixcenterforthearts.org
Our Summer Extravaganza will be full days of music, dance, theatre and art (painting, drawing, photography and clay), all taught by professional artists. Each three-week session will culminate in a performance and gallery show. Cost: $450. Ages: 6–14.
Dates: June 4–22; June 25-July 13; July 16–Aug. 3

Phoenix Zoo—Camp Zoo
455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
Contact: 602-914-4333
Enjoy up-close animal encounters, hands-on activities, games, in-depth investigations, organized free-time, water play amusement and much more at the Phoenix Zoo’s Camp Zoo! Adventure awaits around every corner and on every trail of the 125-acre zoological park, with more than 1,000 animals to greet your child. Reservations required, please call. Grades: K–8. Cost: Full day $275 non-members, $250 members. Half day $170 non-members, $155 members.
Dates: June 4–July 27

Valley Youth Theatre Summer Camps
525 North First Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Valley Youth Theater offers camps for age groups 5-6 and 7-16!
ALL STAR SUMMER PLAYHOUSE (Ages 5-6)
Session 1: June 4 – June 28, 9am-12:00 or 9am-3:00pm
Session 2: July 9- August 2, 9am-12:00 or 9am-3:00pm
In this camp, our young campers learn theatre basics through lively games and activities. Each week they will participate in classes in acting, music, and dance as well as work together to produce a musical theatre showcase to be performed for friends and family. Tuition: $300.00 for 9am-12:00 or $575.00 for 9am-3:00. Students must bring a snack or sack lunch daily.
MUSICAL THEATRE SUMMER WORKSHOP (Ages 7-16)
Session 1: June 4 – June 29, 9am-3:00pm
Session 2: July 9 – August 3, 9am-3:00pm
In this camp, students participate in daily classes in the three disciplines of musical theatre: acting, dance, and music as well as participate in a production to be showcased at the end of the session. This camp is focused on giving students a well-rounded performing arts education in addition to experience in the audition process, rehearsal technique, ensemble building, and performance. Tuition: $630.00. Students must bring a sack lunch and snack daily.

Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA Camps
The YMCA is offering camps of varying styles this summer! 
Valley of the Sun YMCA Day Camp
Contact: 602-404-9622 
Day Camp means fun all summer long for kids 3–17 –– peace of mind for parents! From theme weeks like Summer Olympics to crafts, water fun, sports, and more––all under the watchful eyes of our fully-trained staff. More info here.
CAMP Sky-Y
Contact: 1-800-660-1385
Located in Prescott National Park, this summer overnight camp is a big adventure filled with fun for kids 7–16: archery, paintball, crafts, canoeing, games, swimming, rock climbing and more. Make new friends for a lifetime of memories. More info here. 
YMCA Chauncey Ranch
Contact: 1-928-632-7704
Campers from 7–16 can spend the summer at a real working ranch. From Lil’ Ranchers to Trail Masters, age-appropriate ranch activities build self-confidence. Campfires, horses, outdoor activities, and crafts––create a summer experience your kids won’t soon forget More info here.

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TUCSON AREA

Bookmans Entertainment Exchange
 Check out Bookman’s calendar for special events throughout the summer!  For kids and teens of all ages.

Harkins Theatres Summer Movie Fun
May 28–Aug. 3
Contact: 1-800-601-4SMF (763), smf@harkins.com
The ultimate summer moviegoing program for kids. See 10 movies for $7. Children’s concession combo only $4.50. Don’t miss the fun!

Humane Society of Southern Arizona Dog Days in the Desert Summer Camp
3465 E. Kleindale, Tucson
Contact: Inge Koopman-Leyva, 520-321-3704 x142, ikoopmanleyva@hssaz.org
These fun and instructive week long program utilizes classroom activities, individual and group projects, arts & crafts, guest speakers and hands-on projects to teach children about animal care and humane responsibilities toward animals. A large part of the daily curriculum will include the foster care of Humane Society shelter animals, puppies, kittens, rabbits, guinea pigs and other small critters. Cost: $225 for the public, $200 for Hand-In-Paw Kids Club Members. More info here. 
Dates & Programs:
AGES 6–8 (Freshmen)
-Featured Pet Productions • June 4–7                    
-Pups, Pooches & Pedigrees • July 9–12
AGES 9–11 (Juniors)
-Red Rovers Dog Training • June 11–14                 
-Junior Vet • July 16–19
AGES 12–14 (Seniors)
-Canine Coaching • June 18–21                                   
-Lights, Camera, Animals • July 23–26

International School of Tucson
1701 East Seneca Street (5 blocks from UMC)
Contact: 406-0552, info@InternationalSchoolofTucson.org
Spend the summer with creative, curious and motivated students! IST’s 2012 Summer Programme provides opportunities for academically talented students. Our language-based (Chinese, ESL, French, German, Russian, Spanish) and enrichment programmes (chess, creative writing, mathematics, science, yoga-programmes added weekly) will engage, motivate and stimulate your child. Cost: $165 full-time, $120 half-time. Discounts at four and eight weeks. Ages: 3–12. More info here.
Dates: Mon., June 4–Fri., July 27

The Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures
4455 E. Camp Lowell Dr., Tucson
Contact: Lisa Hastreiter-Lamb 520-881-0606, lisahl@theminitimemachine.org
Distinctive features: Captivating themes in a magical setting set our camps apart.  Description: Imagine, explore, and create! This summer the Mini Time Machine will jet kids to the future, take them into the jungle, bring them under the big top, or in the spotlight of a music concert. Games, special guests and making miniature works of art are just some of the magical activities that we’ll pack in your mini-adventure camp! $80–$175. Ages: 5–17. More info here.
Dates: June 4–July 27

Sonoran Glass Art Academy Summer Sessions
633 W. 18th Street, Tucson, AZ 85701-2553
Contact: (520) 884-7814
Sonoran Glass Art Academy is offering two youth camps! 
Fusing & Flaming Fun Summer Camp
During this two day summer camp experience, campers will spend time in two of our glass studios: our Warm Shop and our Flame Shop. On day one, students will learn basic glass fusing techniques, making 2 projects: a fused glass bowl or plate and a fused mirror. On day two, students will hop into our Flame Shop and learn how to make simple glass beads using a propane and oxygen run torch. 8 sessions available from June 6 – August 23. More info here (bottom of page).
Mosaic Masterpiece Summer Camp
During this two day summer camp experience, campers will spend time learning the joys of mosaics. On day one, students will choose between one of two projects: a mirror project (12×12 base with a 6×6 mirror) or a 12×12 stepping stone for your garden or yard.  On day two, students will continue working on their mosaic designs, then learn to grout their project and finally, polish it to make it sparkle! 8 sessions available from June 6 – August 23. More info here (bottom of page).

Tucson Clay Co-op
3326 N. Dodge Blvd., Tucson
Contact: Maxine Krasnow, 520-792-6263, tucsonclaycoop@yahoo.com
Interactive Summer Clay Camp at the Tucson Clay Co-op includes wheel throwing, hand building and theatre for children 6-12 years old. Each fun-filled 2 week session ends with a party and play performance. Cost: $98/2 weeks. Ages: 6–12. More info here. 
Dates:
Session 1: June 19–21, June 26–28
Session 2: July 3–5, July 10–12
Session 3: July 17–19, 24–26

Tucson Waldorf School Summer Programs
3349 E. Presidio Rd., Tucson, AZ 85716
Contact: (520) 529-1032
We are excited to offer an array of programs to keep children from Nursery to Grade 8 unplugged and engaged this summer. The programs provide creative opportunities in a safe and nurturing environment that are consistent with all of the elements parents love about Waldorf Education. Please join us this summer for a multi-faceted arts experience! More info here. 
Dates & Programs:
Early Childhood Lily Pond Program (ages 2 1/2 – 6), June 4–August 3
Mixed Media Arts (grades 2-8), May 29-June 1
Theatre Arts (grades 2-8), June 4-June 29 
Medieval Arts (grades 2-8), July 2-July 27
Creative Arts Program (grades 4-8), July 2-July 27
Community Arts (grades 2-8), July 30-August 3

Tucson Children’s Museum Kinder Camps
200 South 6th Avenue Tucson, AZ 85701
Contact: 520-792-9985, camps@childrensmuseumtucson.org
Fun-filled learning throughout the summer with Kinder Camps! Each session is $125 for non-museum members and $95 for members unless otherwise stated. For children ages 4-6 or 6-8. More info here.
Dates & Programs:
June 4-8: Edible Science
June 11-15: Out of this World
June 18-22: Zonapalooza
June 25-29: Digging Dinosaurs
July 2-6: Let’s Get Moving
July 9-13: Creepy Crawly Creatures
July 16-20: Ocean Adventures
July 23-27: The Art of Nature
July 30-August 3: Sensational Me

BICAS Youth Summer Bike Camp

Camp is designed for youth aged 8-13 years old.
Session 1: June 11-15
Session 2: July 23-27

Camp is 8 am to 12:30 daily and cost $150/week. Scholarships are available.

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This Week’s Shift Recommendation: Cinco de Mayo

Posted on May 3, 2012 by Erica

Every week, we make a suggestion for how you can easily shift the way you shop and support local businesses! Here is this week’s SHIFT recommendation:


Cinco de Mayo is this Saturday! Pay a visit to locally-owned Mexican restaurant to celebrate.

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Sprucing Up the Nest

Posted on May 2, 2012 by Erica

Today’s Local First Arizona member spotlight is on the Earth and Images:

We were never into home aesthetics and it totally reflects in our living room, which is a larger interpretation of our first apartment in college – cozy couch, vintage Indian print sheets as curtains, books everywhere, and thrift store knick knacks. We originally thought it as vintage chic with a boho twist but, quite frankly, it’s an eyesore. Earth and Images is just the help we need, offering expert advice from owner, Isabel Dellinger, and a variety of large scale, focal pieces that spice up the home. Earth and Images is a wonderful resource for old world or of-the-day home finds. Chock full of rare and sophisticated home goods, ranging from luxury home furnishings, architectural details, and lighting, to hand-selected, one-of-a-kind pieces, you’ll definitely find the perfect piece to make your home sparkle with elegance and class. If spring fever has you sprucing the nest or you’ve become inspired by a recent home interior pin on Pinterest, be sure to swing by this Scottsdale-based home boutique, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and have the experts turn your dated living space into a luxurious showstopper.

Earth and Images
15125 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 106
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
480.596.0498

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Treat Your Mom to a Unique Local Business!

Posted on May 1, 2012 by Erica

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 13. Have you made plans with your mom yet? Or have you run out of ideas? Fear not, because you can show her how much you care for her by treating her to a unique local business! By going to a local restaurant for brunch or buying a bouquet from a local flower shop, you’ll not only get better service and products, but also give your mom that special charm that comes along with patronizing a small, independent business. Check out the specials these businesses are featuring to celebrate moms around Arizona:

Brunch at the Heard Museum will be delicious!

Mother’s Day Brunch at the Heard Museum
Sunday, May 13, 2012, 10:30am-3pm
2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85004
Make this Mother’s Day special – dine at the Courtyard Café at the Heard Museum! You can even let mom pick out her own gift at the Heard Museum Shop! Enjoy a special prix-fixe brunch menu, music and performances. $30 for adults, $25 for Heard Museum members, $15 for children 12 and under. Price does not include gratuity. Price does not include museum admission. Call for reservations: 602.251.0204. More info here.

The Moms in My Life at Petite Maison
Sunday, May 13, 10am-3pm
7216 East Shoeman Lane, Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
Chef James Porter shares each of his favorite recipes from his mom, grandmother and mother-in-law as main courses. Taste his mom’s banana-nut bread, his grandmother’s potato au gratin and his mother-in-law’s salmon torte. $49 per person, $19 for children. Call for reservations: 480.991.6887. View the full menu here.

Mother’s Day Lakeside Luncheon and Cruise
Sunday, May 13
Saguaro Lake area
Join Sonoran Excursions in celebrating our mothers with this lakeside luncheon and cruise! We’ll explore Saguaro Lake after visiting a local gallery. Included in your tour will be a professional photography session. Tour cost is $145 per person, which includes deluxe motorcoach transportation with music and snacks, photo session, gallery reception, viewing of one of the world’s tallest fountains, lakeside lunch, and boat tour. More info here.

Mother’s Day Brunch and Dinner
May 11-12, 11am-10pm; Sunday, May 13, 10am-9pm
Phoenix City Grille: 5816 North 16th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phoenix City Grille celebrates Mother’s Day (May 13th) all weekend long this year. Our delicious specials will be available Friday, Saturday and Sunday after 4 p.m. each day. Specials include Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Scallop and Sea of Cortez Shrimp & Pan Seared Alaskan Halibut. Call for reservations: 602-266-3001. More details here.

Sample of photography by Jana Socha

An Art Show for Mothers and Women
Friday, May 11, 4:30pm-6:30pm (happy “photo” hour with Jana); Saturday, May 12, 10am-2pm (meet the artist day)
Crizmac Art & Cultural Marketplace: 1642 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85712
Treat your mom to a fabulous art show celebrating women and mothers, and mother nature! Join photographer Jana Socha to honor your mom with a happy “photo” hour and meet the artist day for Mother’s Day Weekend. FEATURING Mystic Light’s NEWEST 2012 WALL ART, Matted Prints & Photo Cards. Plus ‘GIFT with Purchase’ for ALL Moms of Every Type! Email Jana@JanaSocha.com for more information.

House of Tricks Mother’s Day Brunch
Sunday, May 13
114 East 7th Street, Tempe, AZ 85281
Join us for a memorable Mother’s Day celebration on our beautiful patio or in one of our cozy indoor dining rooms. We’ve created a special menu for the occasion, with three courses. $48 per person, $15 for children. More info here.

Pillow Talk / A Special Mother’s Day Screening!
Sunday, May 13th at 12:00 p.m.
The Loft Cinema: 3233 East Speedway Boulevard  Tucson, AZ 85716
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Rock Hudson and Doris Day in the sparkling 1959 romantic comedy PILLOW TALK! All mothers in attendance will receive a fresh-cut flower (while supplies last), and be entered into our free raffle for a fabulous ROCK HUDSON/DORIS DAY PRIZE PACKAGE, featuring music, movies, a collectible Pillow Talk Rock and Doris Barbie Doll set and more! PLUS: Tasty “Momosas” will be available at the snack bar. More info here.

Thank You, Mom, From Urban Cookies
Reserve Your Cupcakes Today!
Urban Cookies: 4711 N. 7th St., Phoenix, AZ 85014
For Mother’s Day Week, Urban Cookies is going local!  They’ll be using Beneficial Beans coffee beans from the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC) in their Caramel Macchiato cupcakes, and edible wild flowers from Maya’s Farm on their Grapefruit cupcakes.  Urban Cookies will also be open on Mother’s Day from 11am-5pm. Reserve your cupcakes today!

Mother’s Day Celebration in Historic Downtown Glendale
Saturday, May 12
Moms can browse the unique shops and eateries of downtown Glendale, building their own bouquet as they go. Mothers, and those who love them, are encouraged to start their day at the Glendale Visitor Center, to pick up a map, and while supplies last, gift bags and free flowers just for moms. Several area merchants will also offer free flowers so that after a day of browsing and shopping, moms will have flowers for a beautiful bouquet to take home. In addition, The Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau is collecting new and gently read books to benefit Velma Teague Library in Downtown Glendale. More info here.

Moms Are the Sweetest at GoodyTwos Toffee Company!
Now through Saturday, May 12 
6990 E. Shea Blvd. suite #116 & #117 Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Receive 10% off your total purchase when you mention “sweetmom” for in store and on phone purchases!  More info here.

Don’t forget to check out our complete list of Local First Arizona members that serve brunch around the state!

Planning on picking up a gift for your mom to show your appreciation for her? Here are some ideas:

How will you be spending your Mother’s Day?  Let us know in the comments section!

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