Features

  Spring’s pleasant breezes will soon give way to the scorching Arizona heat, but it’s not too late to enjoy the beautiful gold, pink and purple blooms of desert cactus.   Join other outdoor enthusiasts for Picnic in the Park at Desert Awareness Park Ampitheater Thursday, May 10 at 11 a.m. to give spring blooms one last send-off before they retreat for the season. The event promises fun for old and young alike.   Desert Awareness Park is located one block north of Cave Creek Road on Vermeersch Road, between Binkley’s and Cave Creek Building Supply. It features fabulous desert vistas, picnic and shade ramadas with charcoal grills, a children’s playground and nature, horse and hiking trails. Desert Heritage Education Center, located in the park, features a riparian pond area. There is no entrance fee.   Learn more about desert plants by exploring the park, open daily to the public during daylight hours.   www.azfcf.org... More

  Anthem’s popular Music in May concert series returns this year with four new bands that will play everything from country and rock ‘n’ roll, to rhythm and blues, and pop. The free two-hour concerts begin May 4 and take place at 7 p.m. each Friday evening in May at the Anthem Community Park Amphitheater, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway.   Michele DeMichele, special events director for the Anthem Community Council, explains why Music in May is so popular: “It’s an easy and fun way to start the weekend. Grab a blanket, bring a picnic and enjoy some great music with your friends and family under the beautiful Arizona night sky.”   This year’s performers and dates include: Friday, May 4: Chuck Hall Band Friday, May 11: Thaddeus Rose Band Friday, May 18: The Instant Classics Friday, May 25: That Kool Band  ... More