More new restaurants & Christmas time is here🎄

The holiday season is coming to its peak, be sure and take some time to slow down and enjoy the season, and the important people in your life.

The weather is going to be amazing next week, safe travels if you‘re headed to cooler climates.

In this edition:

The holiday lights map is getting better & better. Thank you to everyone who has reached out about the amazing houses in their neighborhoods. I have added another to the map!

Get all the details on these light displays, plus a google map of all locations at ArrowheadHolidayLightsMap.com

Be sure to share the map with your friends & family!! If you know of a display worthy of being on the map, please share the details.

There is one less driveway to get in & out of the Safeway at 67th Ave & the 101, and I think its a good thing. As part of the improvements to the Loop 101 & frontage roads, the driveway that was next to the Circle K was eliminated. It was too close to the corner and was a problem as people leaving the parking lot seemed to always want to cut across all the lanes and go south on 67th Avenue.

Last week we talked about the upcoming City of Phoenix city council meeting where they were to vote on the rezoning for the project called NorthPark. That meeting took place on December 17th, and the council voted to approve the changes. (link)

The Arizona Department of Transportation advises drivers to plan for the following closures as part of the Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway) widening project.

Arrownead’s food scene just got a tasty new addition with the arrival of Sirks, a family-friendly spot serving up vibrant Middle Eastern-inspired fare right here in the 85308 community. Sirks is in the space formerly occupied by Phila Deli, near EOS Fitness at 59th Ave & the 101.

Sirks is offering falafel and other authentic flavors that make every visit feel like a mini culinary getaway to the Mediterranean right in our backyard. They officially opened with a grand opening celebration and weekend specials that drew curious foodies from across the valley. (link &

map)

Another great dining option in Arrowhead is the arrival of Shawarmania, a Mediterranean-style restaurant and shawarma spot that is already getting strong reviews. Known for juicy shawarma wraps, hearty platter options, hand-cut fries, and fresh ingredients prepared without seed oils, Shawarmania brings a taste of Romanian-inspired street-style shawarma right to our neighborhood. (link & map)

Here is what Nick & JD are talking about in this week’s episode.

🏨 VAI Resort Update The massive resort near the stadium still doesn’t have an opening date. Developers say progress is being made, but after years of delays, they’re no longer committing to timelines. What that really means — and why patience may be the only option.

🏛️ Glendale City Council Stipend Debate Councilmember Lupe Conchas raises concerns about transparency around city council stipends and allowances. Nick and J.D. break down what councilmembers are paid, how the funds work, and whether this is really a big issue in a $1.4B city budget.

👟 Teen Entrepreneurs Painting Curbs Meet Grant and Trey, two local teens running a curb-number painting business to help emergency services find homes faster. A throwback, Mayberry-style story — and exactly the kind of hustle we love to see in Arrowhead.

🍕 New Restaurants & Food Updates • Pizzicata opens in the former Bottega space • Picklemans Gourmet Café now open at Arrowhead Mall • Honest takes on value, pizza pricing, and toasted sandwich philosophy

🎸 Bruce Donaldson Live Music Local photographer, musician, and “Most Interesting Man in Arrowhead” Bruce Donaldson performs at Tre Bicchieri on Dec. 17 and Christmas Eve — support a neighbor and a local business at the same time.

🎄 Holiday Vibes & Community Spirit From Christmas light maps to neighborhood energy, this episode captures what makes Arrowhead feel like home during the holidays.

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to stay up to date with everything happening around Glendale and Arrowhead. 🗓️ Hiking details & community events at EverythingArrowhead.com

Got more questions for city leaders? Drop them in the comments or email [email protected].

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The holidays are in full swing, and that means a full line up of fun & exciting holiday themed events are happening all across the Valley.

I’ve created a curated list of local & valleywide events you may be interested in this holiday season. See all the details here.

[Downtown Glendale] Glendale Glitters is happening nightly through December 31, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., giving visitors plenty of opportunities to experience the magic. Stroll through the charming streets of Downtown Glendale, explore unique shops, and indulge in festive treats while taking in the dazzling lights and joyful atmosphere.

In addition to the ongoing lights, Santa Claus will be at Santa’s Village every Friday and Saturday, beginning December 5 through December 20. Starting at 6 p.m. families can visit Santa at 5836 W Palmaire Ave, with photos available for $5. (link)

***My daughter & I went to Glendale Glitters this past Saturday, and it was crazy crowded. I also had forgotten that the event location has been adjusted due to the construction happening on City of Glendale facilities. It is still a good time, just be mindful of when you go and have the proper expectations.

Looking for something fun to do this weekend here in the NW Valley? Check out the Weekend Lineup.

[Glendale] Photos with Santa at Arrowhead Towne Center. Now through December 24th.

The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 7 and is located on the lower level near JCPenney. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase.

[Glendale] The Arrowhead Farmers Market is hosting their market at its new location every Saturday from 9am-1pm, at Dream City Church, 21000 N 75th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308

[Glendale] Join local musician Bruce Donaldson for a cozy winter night in Arizona desert. Worn-in guitars, heartfelt memories, and a mix of classic tunes, easy-listening favorites, and a sprinkle of seasonal spirit. Come for the music, stay for the food. wine, and friends. The perfect backdrop for date night, family, or a relaxing mid week escape. For reservations, contact Tre Bicchieri

Have an event you’d like listing here? Please send me the details!

Join us on our next hike on Sunday, January 4th, as we head up the trail in West Wing Mountain. It is a beautiful trail and area of the desert that many never see.

Get the details & all of our upcoming hikes at ArrowheadHikingClub.com

This group is for everyone of all skill levels, seasoned backpacker to beginner, we’d love to have you join us.

Last week’s trivia question was ‘What is the name of the highest mountain peak that towers above the White Mountains, at an elevation of 11,409 feet?’

The correct answer was: Mount Baldy

Mount Baldy, located in Arizona’s White Mountains, is one of the highest peaks in the state, rising to about 11,400 feet. Known to the White Mountain Apache Tribe as Dził Nchaa Siʼan, the mountain sits within the Fort Apache Indian Reservation and is considered sacred. With alpine meadows, dense spruce-fir forests, and summer temperatures far cooler than the desert below, Mount Baldy offers a rare high-elevation landscape in Arizona—though access is regulated and permits are required.

Lamb Chop is a 3 year old Miniature Poodle weighing just 9.2 pounds, and she is currently available for adoption. This sweet female pup is the perfect size for cozy laps, neighborhood walks, and plenty of companionship. Lamb Chop is staying with a foster family and is ready to find a loving forever home. If you have been thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, Lamb Chop would be an amazing Christmas gift.

Learn more about Lamb Chop and the other available pets at Paw Posse Animal Rescue.

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