Author: scottsdalevibes

As summer approaches, I’m thrilled to share with you why June Days in our beloved city is a season like no other. With the temperatures rising and the allure of the off-season beckoning, Scottsdale becomes a playground of possibilities. But let me tell you, Scottsdale June Days takes it to a whole new level. This extraordinary event offers a sensational lineup of activities, events, and tastings that you won’t want to miss. So, join me as we delve into the origins of June Days and discover how this incredible initiative came to life, bringing a touch of magic to our city.

The Birth of June Days

Fueling Community Spirit, June Days emerged as a response to the needs of Downtown Scottsdale and as a way to showcase the vibrant pulse of Old Town. This initiative brings our community together, highlighting the hidden charms of the summer season and celebrating the unique aspects that make Scottsdale truly special.

The Power of Small Businesses: Lifeblood of Our Community

Small businesses are the heart and soul of our community, driving economic growth, fostering job opportunities, and embracing the spirit of entrepreneurship. June Days amplifies the impact of tourism on our city by driving foot traffic and offering special deals that captivate both residents and visitors alike. Supporting these small businesses contributes to the prosperity and success of our entire community.

The Essence of June Days

June Days is more than just a month-long celebration; it’s a year-round passion that extends beyond the event itself. The dedicated organizers build relationships within the community, fostering excitement and anticipation. The events are tailored to cater to all tastes and ages, celebrating the diversity that makes Scottsdale thrive. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, an art lover, or a music aficionado, June Days has something extraordinary in store for you.

A key objective of June Days is to showcase the marvels of Old Town Scottsdale and connect residents and visitors with local artisans and businesses. By driving foot traffic and showcasing special deals, we have the opportunity to discover hidden treasures and unravel the stories of small business triumph. It’s a chance to immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of Scottsdale’s entrepreneurial spirit.

The June Days Extravaganza

Let’s take a sneak peek into some of the exciting events happening during June Days. Families can enjoy a free showing of Roald Dahl’s, James and the Giant Peach at the Scottsdale Center for Performing Arts. The artwork showcased during family event nights is sure to captivate your children’s imagination. Puzzle Rides offers unique scavenger hunt adventures for the whole family, while the McCormick Stillman Railroad Park Glow Up Party promises an unforgettable neon-themed foam party. Movie enthusiasts can indulge in a free screening of Top Gun Maverick under the stars. And don’t forget to explore the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market for a taste of the vibrant local produce.

This celebration not only showcases the best of our city but also serves as a powerful platform for supporting our local small businesses. By joining me and engaging with the incredible lineup of events and activities, you’ll not only discover the hidden gems of Scottsdale but also contribute to the growth and prosperity of our community. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a curious visitor, June Days offers a summer experience like no other. So, let’s make memories, support our small businesses, and revel in the magic of Scottsdale’s June Days!

This week, we have an exciting episode featuring Joe Ann Garner, the representative of Scottsdale’s Sister Cities, and Mackenzie Shane, the current St. Patrick’s Day Parade Colleen. Join us as we delve into the incredible Sister Cities program, the upcoming student golf exchange with Killarney, Ireland, and the vibrant world of the St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Unveiling Scottsdale’s Sister Cities

As an Arizonan, I recently discovered the fascinating concept of Sister Cities, and I’m thrilled to learn that Scottsdale is a part of this international organization. Sister Cities International was founded by President Eisenhower with the goal of promoting peace and communication between cities from different countries. Scottsdale currently has eight Sister Cities, including the recent addition of Killarney, Ireland.

Killarney, Ireland: A Remarkable Sister City

Nestled in County Kerry, Killarney is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant Irish culture. Scottsdale’s Sister Cities program facilitates meaningful connections and fosters friendship and cultural understanding between Scottsdale and Killarney. When Scottsdale residents visit Killarney, they have the opportunity to meet local dignitaries, explore the beauty of the city, and experience Irish hospitality firsthand.

The Student Golf Exchange Program

One exciting collaboration between the Killarney Committee and the Scottsdale St. Patrick’s Day Parade is the student golf exchange program. This initiative allows young golf enthusiasts from Scottsdale and Killarney to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience. Scottsdale students will travel to Killarney this summer to participate in the golf exchange program, while Irish students will visit Scottsdale for a memorable golfing experience and to explore our vibrant city.

Embracing the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Colleen Role

Mackenzie Shane, this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade Colleen, shared her journey and the responsibilities that come with the title. As a Colleen, Mackenzie represents the parade for a year. She actively engages with the community, participates in fundraisers, and fosters cultural exchange at the Irish Cultural Center in downtown Phoenix.

Supporting the Program

Fundraising plays a crucial role in supporting the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and ensuring the success of the Colleen program. Mackenzie highlighted an upcoming golf scramble at Silverado on May 12th, which aims to raise funds for future participants. This event promises a day of fun, laughter, and the opportunity to contribute to the rich experiences the Colleen program offers.

Scottsdale’s Sister Cities program and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade embody the spirit of inclusivity, heritage, and cultural exchange. Through our conversation with Mackenzie Shane we discovered the significance of the Colleen title and the incredible experiences it brings. The addition of Killarney as a Sister City opens doors for international friendships and fosters global connections.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a lover of Irish culture, or simply someone who appreciates the importance of international friendships, there’s something for everyone in these endeavors. Don’t miss the upcoming golf scramble, attend the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Irish culture. Let’s celebrate the rich heritage and community spirit that make Scottsdale truly exceptional.

As the host of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, I have the pleasure of bringing you new and exciting episodes every week, showcasing the incredible people, places, and events in Scottsdale. Today, I am delighted to be sitting down with Peter Newlan, the Chief Experience Officer of Birdcall, a fantastic all-natural chicken restaurant located right here in Scottsdale on Scottsdale and Shea.

I must say, I absolutely love Peter’s title. Chief Experience Officer. It’s so unique and inspiring. It makes me wish I had a title like that in my own life. But let’s talk about Birdcall. It’s not just about their delicious and healthy food, although that is a major plus. What truly sets them apart is their deep connection to the community.

Everything about Birdcall, from the artwork to the spices they use and the bread they serve, is locally sourced from the valley. This speaks volumes about their commitment to supporting local businesses and showcasing the essence of the community through their restaurant.

I want to express my gratitude to Peter for taking the time to chat with us.

Peter’s journey in hospitality began unexpectedly. While biking home from school one day, he stumbled upon a small burger restaurant called Park Burger. As he sat inside, surrounded by people enjoying themselves, he felt an indescribable sense of connection and community. That experience sparked something within him, a realization that hospitality is more than just serving food—it’s about creating a special atmosphere where people can find solace, happiness, and a sense of belonging.

Peter’s passion for hospitality led him to join forces with his partner, Jean-Philippe Failyau, a classically trained chef. Together, they founded Birdcall with a shared belief that attention to detail can truly make a difference in the dining experience. They recognized that enhancing hospitality involves bringing together people with different skills and focusing on various aspects of the restaurant.

Peter emphasizes that restaurants have the power to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether someone walks through the door on their best day or their worst day, it’s the restaurant’s responsibility to make their experience a little bit better. Restaurants can become the heartbeat of a community, and that’s exactly what Birdcall aims to be.

Expanding outside of Colorado and choosing Scottsdale as their first location in Arizona speaks volumes about their belief in the Scottsdale community. They see it as an opportunity to learn from other exceptional restaurants in the area and build connections with like-minded individuals in the industry.

One thing that truly impressed me about Birdcall is their genuine dedication to being a part of the community. They are not just a satellite restaurant; they are deeply ingrained in the fabric of Scottsdale. From the local artists who create murals on their walls to the posters featuring concerts held in the area, every detail reflects their commitment to Scottsdale and its unique culture.

Peter explains that being a part of the community is not just a marketing strategy for Birdcall—it’s at the core of who they are as a company. They believe that a restaurant exists to serve the community it has the privilege to be a part of. The power of hospitality lies in the human connection and the ability to make a difference in someone’s day, no matter how small.

In line with this philosophy, Birdcall actively gives back to the community. Inspired by brands like Patagonia and their commitment to the environment, Birdcall has implemented a program where a portion of their sales goes toward school fundraisers and initiatives to fight food insecurity. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Birdcall served 250,000 meals to rural communities in need. It’s heartwarming to see how Birdcall stepped up during such a challenging time and provided nourishment to those who needed it most.

But Birdcall’s impact doesn’t stop there. Peter shares that they also prioritize sustainability in their operations. From using eco-friendly packaging to sourcing ingredients from local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture, Birdcall is committed to minimizing their environmental footprint.

I am truly inspired by Birdcall’s dedication to not only creating an exceptional dining experience but also being a force for good in the community. It’s clear that Peter and his team are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact.

As we wrap up our conversation, I can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for Birdcall and the values they embody. Their commitment to supporting local businesses, fostering community connections, and giving back is truly commendable. I encourage all our listeners to visit Birdcall and experience not only their delicious food but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere they have created.

Thank you, Peter, for sharing your story and for reminding us all of the power of hospitality and community. It has been an absolute pleasure having you on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, and I look forward to seeing Birdcall continue to thrive and make a difference in Scottsdale and beyond.

And to all our listeners, thank you for tuning in. Remember, it’s not just about the food we eat, but also the experiences and connections we create along the way. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes coming your way, where we continue to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottsdale. Until next time, this is Alicia Haygood, keep spreading those positive vibes!

Hey everyone, I am thrilled to share that we have reached an incredible milestone, we celebrate our 100th episode this week! Scottsdale Vibes has become a go-to for all things Scottsdale and has grown to the top 10% of all podcasts globally and the 15% most downloaded podcasts on Spotify! This is all thanks to our ability to showcase all the great people, places, and events in Scottsdale, along with our commitment to bringing new and exciting content each week. But most importantly, it is due to our amazing listeners! I am so grateful for the support that has made this possible. Is is a dream come true!

How We Are Celebrating

To celebrate this milestone, I have invited some of my past guests to share their favorite Scottsdale vibes. Additionally, two of our amazing sponsors, Jeremy Mueller from State Farm Insurance and Dr. Rob DeVito from Arizona Center for Laser Dentistry will be featured in this episode. Both sponsors have been with us since before the beginning and are excited about the future of Scottsdale! Especially the Cavassion development and the new Optima 101 on Scottsdale Road.

All About the Vibes

Scottsdale, Arizona is often associated with luxurious desert living, perfect weather for most of the year, and a unique vibe. This vibe is what inspired the title of our podcast “Scottsdale Vibes,” which explores the different impressions people have of the city. We invite guests to share their favorite Scottsdale vibe, providing listeners with an in-depth look at the city’s diverse community and culture.

We have featured a variety of people over the past couple of years including Tammy Fellows, publisher of the High-End Magazine, City Lifestyle. She loves the city’s active community and how it keeps people moving, making it an essential part of Scottsdale’s vibe.

Mark Stanton, President of the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, loves the fact that there is always something new going on in Scottsdale. From the Arabian horse show to the Phoenix Open and Barrett Jackson there is always an event happening.

Mayor Ortega also talks about the Scottsdale Smiles and how it shows that the city is happy and back to its vibrant self.

Arizona Homeland Director Tim Roamer, who was born and bred in Scottsdale, talks about his favorite Scottsdale vibe, which encompasses everything from golf courses to a great restaurant scene. He also talks about his passion for the Kierland area and how it has evolved over the years.

Scottsdale Summed Up

In conclusion, Scottsdale’s vibe is a combination of an active community that focuses on health and wellness, constant pulse of events and activities, and a unique sense of pride and ownership of the city. It is a city that has something for everyone, from golf courses to a great restaurant scene, and is home to successful and influential people who are making an impact on the city, state, and even the country.

The Scottsdale Vibes Podcast has played a significant role in showcasing this vibrant city to the world, and its future looks bright with more exciting content to come. If you know someone who should be featured on the show, have them check out our sponsorship page to learn more!