#1100.com

The evening temperatures during springtime in Phoenix are near perfect and Valley residents are taking full advantage. Biltmore Fashion Park has captured the essence of community and originality by hosting their “Movies in the Park” event every Friday night this spring. Each night, the Biltmore will play a classic movie on an oversized screen at 7:30pm (upcoming showings can be found on their website). Bring a blanket or your favorite lawn chair and scope out a prime spot to stretch out and enjoy the show. In addition to the flick, a number of restaurants in the surrounding area will offer discounted to-go menu items—an ideal grab-and-go situation for all to enjoy. Make it a date night and put unique spin on your typical movie watching routine!

Mill Avenue never ceases to amaze me; it constantly changes and evolves in reflection of Tempe’s culture, clientele and experiences. It’s no surprise that I stumbled across the colorful little treat, Slickables! Owners Sam Chang and Tina Chau opted out of corporate America and said yes to a delectable new spin on a longtime favorite, the ice cream sandwich. Standing by their slogan “sandwiches that are lickable,” Slickables supplies a variety of homemade cookies that make up the “crust” and your choice of premium ice creams for the rich center. What’s even better is the price, tops off at a mere two bucks! Whether you’re a starving student or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, Slickables is an inexpensive treat for the spring heat.

One Big Picnic

One of the most talked about events and a longstanding traditions this time of year is the Scottsdale Culinary Festival. If you’ve ever attended, you know why—and if you haven’t, let me enlighten you. The Great Arizona Picnic will host its 34th annual culinary festival at the Scottsdale Civic Center. Over 50 vendors are set to attend this year on April 21-22 and it’s sure to be delicious. Tents stocked with bite-size rations will make your decision easy and allow you to taste everything! Also, live music performances can be seen from three separate stages, and the VIP area will feature foodie celebrities. Last, but certainly not least, are drinks: guests can enjoy a number of beverage selections including a beer tasting festival. Indulge, why don’t you?

When the weather feels as perfect as it does, especially when it is so radiant day after day—and thanks to nature’s simple sounds and vibrant blooms—I’m reminded of how delightful it is to be outside this time of year. For some reason, I need all the right seasonal signs to motivate me to break out of my winter habits and transition into spring.

As an avid cyclist, I am excited to get outside and view the emerging season and experience the sites I’ve missed in past months. Whether I’m out riding, taking in a baseball game, or people watching at one of my local haunts, I never experience a shortage of things to see and do during spring.

This month our contributors captured some of the most exciting activities in town, and I am sure they will give you ideas to add to your calendar.

Visit the iPad version, too! Each issue, the 1100 team takes content from every story, optimizes it for the iPad, and adds interactive functionality to enhance the article. This is a must-download app!

No matter where you are during the month of February, it’s hard to escape the love, mystery, and often times, hype of romance in the air. As Valentine’s Day draws near, there always seem to be this feeling of pressure, an expedition rather to make precise plans on the 14th day. My advice: forget the rush. Whether you were struck by cupid’s arrow or not, choose your own day to celebrate.

Wherever you are—on your day—dress up, dress down, try that quaint restaurant off the beaten path, and absolutely enjoy those tasty heart-shaped pastries calling your name through the glass window. Besides, the gift is in the memory, no matter whom you’re with.

This month our contributors highlighted some of the most coveted happenings around town, and I am sure they will add something sweet to your traditions.

Visit the iPad version, too! Each issue, the 1100 team takes content from every story, optimizes it for the iPad, and adds interactive functionality to enhance the article. This is a must-download app!