Prescott Area August 9, 2023

Hope Fest 2023

Hope Fest returns to Prescott’s downtown square on August 18th!  This year’s HOPE FEST AZ theme is “Love First!”

What is Hope Fest?

A community outreach event on August 19th at Prescott’s beautiful Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza.  The downtown square will once again come alive as thousands will enjoy music, guest speakers, a multitude of connections and community services, as part of the HOPE Serves Family Resource Fair, the FREE amusements in the Family Fun Zone, and a bright-n-shiny Car & Motorcycle Show!

Mission of Hope Fest

The mission of Hope Fest is to Serve Veterans, Active Military, First Responders, their Families, and the Vulnerable of Yavapai County.

Through the HOPE Serves Family Resource Fair – guests will find numerous family services, connections and solutions. For the 11th Year, local businesses, organizations, churches, and groups will impact lives by meeting the needs of our neighbors in the areas of :

  • Education
  • Housing
  • Recovery
  • Domestic Violence
  • Suicide Prevention
  • Mental
  • Social & Health Care
  • Veteran Family Services
  • First Responder Family Services
  • Youth Advocacy
  • Adoption
  • Foster & Elder Care
  • Employment Services

Donations Accepted

Once again we will be collecting donations of canned food and new cold weather gear, such as coats, socks, sleeping bags…bring your’s so ALL our neighbors will be Warm for Winter.

Evening Entertainment

HOPE FEST Arizona is excited to announce that BUILDING 429, a GRAMMY® nominated Christian Rock band from Fayetteville, North Carolina, will perform at the 10 Annual HOPE FEST AZ in Prescott, Arizona on Saturday, August 19 at 8PM.

Arizona Events July 25, 2023

Educational Speaker Coming to Prescott

About the Signature Series

A new series of speakers are coming to the Prescott area. The Signature Series has quarterly speakers planned for the Prescott area. According to their website, the Signature Series is a platform “where business leaders and industry experts come together to share their knowledge, insights, and perspectives on the most pressing topics impacting businesses today.”

At the Signature Series, we believe that businesses are the foundation of community prosperity and growth. We are committed to supporting you and providing you with the information and tools you need to succeed in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.

Upcoming Event: Rural Health Care

  • Date: August 3, 2023
  • Time: Doors open at 10 am, Speaker’s Presentation from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
  • Place: Embry Riddle: The Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium | 3700 Willow Creek Rd, Prescott, AZ 86301

As leaders of businesses and your families, “If you don’t have your health, you don’t have anything” as the saying goes— is not just on you, but is difficult to attain based on the system.

Today’s health care system is more challenging than ever. The obstacles faced by health care providers and their patients in rural areas are vastly different than those in urban areas. Diverse economic factors, lack of spousal employment, attainable housing, stable medical work force, cultural and social differences, lack of recognition by legislators, and the sheer distance and isolation of living in remote areas—all conspire to create health care disparities and impede rural Americans in their struggle to have accessible and timely health care. To recognize and understand these challenges is the first step in finding solutions for them.

This very thought provoking presentation and discussion with Dr. Galper will provide you with a deeper understanding of the health care obstacles in rural communities; ideas that can improve community options; how all members of the community can help; what innovative solutions could be created; and how you as a business leader can help build a healthy community in Northern Arizona.

About Dr. Carol Galper, EdD

Carol Q. Galper, EdD is a retired Associate Professor of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson. Dr. Galper served as Assistant Dean for Curricular Affairs and founded, developed, and oversaw the Rural Health Professions Program (RHPP), designed to foster interest in rural medical practice in Arizona among selected medical students. Initiated in 1997, the program has helped produce rural physicians throughout Arizona. Carol also was the chair of the Arizona Medical Student Loan program for nearly 10 years until it was “sunsetted” due to lack of state funds and has served as chair of the Rural Medical Educators group of the National Rural Health Association. Carol also oversaw the Commitment to Underserved People (CUP) program at UA, providing service-learning opportunities to medical students who provide supervised care and education to various communities in need. She also served on the team to develop and implement a rural family medicine residency program in Hilo, Hawaii. She was the Principal Investigator at UA for the Arizona AIDS Education and Training Center, a federally funded program to facilitate education for health professionals related to HIV and associated infectious diseases.

Dr. Galper received her BA, MEd and EdD degrees from the University of Arizona, and lived in Prescott for 3 years.  Carol continues to serve through volunteer work with the College of Medicine’s Admissions Committee, as a grant review member for the Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA) for the development of new rural residency programs and continues to serve as a Board member of Northland Cares in Prescott.

More Information Regarding The Signature Series

Recipes July 12, 2023

Creative Ways to Cook with Zucchini

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with fresh and healthy produce, and zucchini is one of the most versatile vegetables. Whether you’ve got a backyard garden overflowing with zucchinis or picked some up from the grocery store, we’ve got some creative ideas for incorporating this nutritious veggie into your meals. From savory dinners to sweet treats, read on for our favorite things to make with zucchini.

Better Homes and Gardens has a great recipe section on its website. Check out this recipe for Zucchini-Sausage Casserole.

Zucchini-Sausage Casserole

Ingredients

Nonstick cooking spray
12 ounce uncooked turkey sausage
4 medium zucchini (2 pounds total)
1 10.75 ounce can reduced-fat and reduced-sodium condensed cream of chicken soup
1 8 ounce carton light sour cream
4 cup herb-seasoned stuffing mix
½ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoon butter, melted

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray; set aside. In a 12-inch skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until brown. Drain off fat. Return sausage to skillet.

Meanwhile, halve zucchini lengthwise; cut crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces. Add zucchini to sausage in skillet. Cover and cook over medium heat for 2 minutes; remove from heat. In a small bowl, combine soup and sour cream; stir into sausage mixture. In a large bowl, combine stuffing mix and broth to moisten.

Spoon half of the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread sausage mixture over stuffing in the dish. Spoon the remaining stuffing mixture evenly over the sausage mixture. Drizzle with butter. Bake, covered for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for 20 minutes or until heated through and the top is golden.

5 Easy Recipes to Make with Zucchini

1) Zucchini Fritters – Zucchini fritters make for a satisfying and easy-to-make snack or side dish. You only need grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, eggs, and your favorite spices to create this delicious treat. Fry the bite-sized fritters in oil until golden brown and serve with a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. Zucchini fritters are a fun and crispy alternative to traditional potato pancakes. You can add chopped herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.

2) Zucchini Lasagna – For a filling and flavorful main course, try a veggie-packed zucchini lasagna. Layer thin slices of zucchini with ricotta cheese, tomato sauce, and your favorite herbs for an Italian-inspired dish that will wow the whole family.

3) Baked Zucchini Chips – Swap out greasy potato chips for healthier baked zucchini chips! All you need is zucchini, olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and an oven. Bake the chips at 375 degrees for approximately 20 minutes and enjoy a crunchy snack without all the added grease.

4) Stuffed Zucchini Boats – Zucchini boats are a fun and creative way to use your surplus of zucchini. Cut them in half lengthwise, scoop out the flesh, and then stuff them with a tasty filling like ground beef, rice, and cheese. Bake them in the oven until the cheese melts and is bubbly for a satisfying and comforting meal.

5) Zucchini Bread– Zucchini bread is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a healthy sweet treat. This moist and flavorful bread has a beautiful texture that will have you returning for more. Mix grated zucchini with flour, sugar, baking soda, and other seasonings to make it. Pour the batter into a bread pan and bake for 60 minutes or until fully cooked. Slice and enjoy as a healthy snack or dessert.

Better Homes and Gardens has a few Zucchini Bread recipes on its website.

These five zucchini recipes are just a few of the many delicious ways to use this versatile vegetable. With a bit of creativity and these helpful tips, you can create tasty dishes that satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy!

Better Homes and Gardens BloomTree Realty in downtown Prescott is the area expert on real estate. Call the office at 928-443-8800 for information on real estate in the Prescott, Arizona, area.

HOMES FOR SALE IN PRESCOTT, ARIZONA

Charity/Community ParticipationNon-Profits June 29, 2023

Non-Profit Spotlight: 100 Men Who Care

Who We Are: We Are You

100 Men Who Care, although not a nonprofit themselves, launched in 2019 to raise funds and awareness for local charities and nonprofits. To date, 100 Men Who Care has raised over $150,000 to help those in need.

Proceeds raised at each quarterly event are awarded to a charity voted on at that event. They promise to gift/donate $100 per participant to the winning group, whether present at the event or not!

How it Works

  • Structure: 100 men donate $100 each to a cause: $10,000 raised.
  • Frequency: Quarterly events, mid-week, 1 hour in length.
  • Beneficiary: Local organizations, 501C-3.
  • Presentations: Three groups present for 10 minutes each.
  • Vote: Paper ballot taken; highest votes received is awarded money raised for the evening.

Get Involved

If you would like to learn more about their events, including details about how your nonprofit may participate, RSVP for their next event or contact them here.

Recent Event

On May 18, 2023, 100 Men Who Care held a fundraiser for Brad Newman. For the past 46 years, Brad has been the Yavapai Exceptional Industries (YEI) director. In addition to helping people with disabilities and giving them opportunities to be productive members of the community, Brad is a talented performer, a real-life Prescott Troubadour.

In 2002, Brad suffered a severe stroke. He is fighting back and recovering in Phoenix. Prescott misses Brad. The community banned together to “Bring Back Brad.” 100 Men Who Care’s fundraiser gathered over $63,000 to help with Brad’s expenses so that he could rehabilitate in Prescott. Read the full Daily Courier story about Brad and his efforts to bring him back to Prescott.


BHGRE BloomTree Realty’s Charity/Community Participation

BHGRE BloomTree Realty has a couple simple goals; deliver the best service possible to our clients and be a supporter of important causes in the community in which we live. In short, we strive to be better and give back to our communities.

  • $710 raised for the 2021 Courthouse Lighting through our sale of raffle tickets for the Prescott Chamber
  • Joined Yavapai Broadcasting as a sponsor to the Radio-thon that raised $18,000 FOR PHOENIX CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL – Click here for the radio commercial.
  • Advertising Sponsor in the 2021 Verde Valley Visitors Guide
  • 1/25 Advertising sponsor of the Cottonwood Chamber Directory
  • 1/21 Sponsor of the Prescott Chamber State of the City Address with the Mayor
  • 1/10 Advertising sponsor of the Historic Walking Tour map of Downtown Prescott
  • 1/1 YMCA donation of $1500 to support youth development and the sponsor the Whiskey Row Marathon on 5/1

 

“We have roots in the community and community in
our roots at BloomTree Realty!”
Arizona EventsPrescott Area June 7, 2023

Delicious 4th of July Food Ideas to Make Your Party a Hit!

The 4th of July is a time for family, friends, and fireworks. And what better way to celebrate this festive holiday than hosting a cookout with some delicious and easy-to-make dishes? Whether hosting a large gathering or having a small get-together with some close friends, here are some great food ideas for your 4th of July party that will wow your guests and leave them wanting more!

Grilled Burgers, Hot Dogs, and Chicken Breasts

Burgers and hot dogs are classics for 4th of July cookouts. But remember the simplicity and tastiness of grilled chicken! They’re easy to make, everyone loves them, and they’re perfect for outdoor gatherings. You can make the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge until it’s time to grill. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and condiments to create a delicious burger or chicken sandwich.

>> How to Grill Chicken to Juicy Perfection This Summer

Potato Salad

A 4th of July cookout is complete when potato salad is on the menu. This classic dish is a favorite among many and can be prepped beforehand. Check out this recipe for the Better Homes and Gardens Potato Salad recipe. Simply delicious!

>> Classic Potato Salad Recipe

Watermelon Salad

Watermelon is a summer fruit that most everyone loves. And when watermelon is combined with feta cheese, mint leaves, and balsamic vinegar, it creates a refreshing and delicious salad. Cut the watermelon into small cubes, crumble the feta cheese, chop some mint leaves, and toss everything together with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Your guests will thank you for this sweet and tangy dish.

>>  Watermelon and Strawberry Lemonade

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is another classic perfect for a 4th of July cookout. Grilling corn gives it a smoky flavor that makes it even more delicious. Better Homes and Gardens has a simple recipe for Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herbs that will be sure to impress your guests.

>> Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herbs Recipe

Patriotic Desserts

No party is complete without desserts, and what better time than the 4th of July to make some patriotic sweets? You can create red, white, and blue cupcakes, a flag cake, or patriotic fruit skewers with strawberries, blueberries, and marshmallows. Get creative with your desserts and have some fun!

>> Check out these recipes for patriotic desserts: 43 Fourth of July Desserts that Will Make Your Holiday Sparkle

Prescott 4th of July Events

prescott 4th of july

 

If you are in the Prescott, Arizona, area during the 4th of July, you are in for a treat. Prescott loves celebrating the 4th of July!

World’s Oldest Rodeo
JUNE 28 – JULY 4, 2023
Since 1888, Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc. has presented the annual World’s Oldest Rodeo® at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds. For 2023, the rodeo is Wednesday, June 28th through Tuesday, July 4th. Join us to see your favorite events, including steer wrestling, bareback riding, tie-down roping, women’s breakaway roping, saddle bronc riding, team roping, women’s barrel racing, bull riding, and other great entertainment!

>> worldsoldestrodeo.com

4th of July Rodeo Parade
JULY 1, 2023 | AT 9:00AM
The Prescott Frontier Days® – World’s Oldest Rodeo® proudly presents the 136th Annual Rodeo Parade held in downtown Prescott over the 4th of July weekend! This year’s rodeo theme is “Dances With Bulls”, celebrating the skill of the rodeo bullfighter (sometimes mistaken for rodeo clowns)!

The Rodeo Parade is a time-honored tradition celebrating our rich western history in Prescott, Arizona! We hope you will join us and help celebrate this fantastic tradition!

>> worldsoldestrodeo.com/rodeo-parade/


BloomTree Realty

While in downtown Prescott, stop by our BloomTree Real Estate office at 102 W Gurley Street #102 – we would love to tell you more about everything Prescott offers!  (928) 443-8800

>>  Homes for Sale in Prescott

Arizona EventsNon-ProfitsPrescott Area May 25, 2023

Non-Profit Spotlight: Agape House of Prescott

Homeless Services in Prescott

Families who find themselves in economic despair, and living in crisis, find hope at The Agape House of Prescott. Agape House is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides long-term transitional housing for families without a residence. They work to rebuild and transform families’ lives and prepare them for an independent and self-sustained future.

The face of the homeless is not who you may think. They are families living on friends’ couches, living in the forest, in parking lots, and trying to manage a family while living in a car. They may be students, waiters/waitresses, or workers at Thrift Stores, Grocery Stores, and Construction sites.

As a Christ-based nonprofit, Agape House helps families rebuild and transform their lives through love, support, training, prayer, and the security of having a home. Agape House is not a shelter but a place to call home—an interim place to raise their family, rebuild relationships, and prepare for independence.

About Their Program

Agape House journeys with the families every step of the way during the rebuilding and transforming process. The Pathway to Independence gives families a place to call home. The support system is a four-phase program of stability, personal wellness, life skills training, and sustainability. Their full-time mentors lead a team of 60+ volunteers that continually support the families by mentoring, coaching, and building relationships so that the families can thrive and succeed.

Agapeville

As Prescott’s only family-inclusive interim housing community, Agape House needed a permanent facility where families could find safety, stability, transitional housing, and support as they work to rebuild their lives. Agape House was able to make that need a reality. Recently, the Agape House purchased a nine-unit apartment complex near downtown Prescott. The apartments not only provide a secure place to call home, but they also offer a community of support. Families help families, mentors have a central location to meet with the families, and kids have a place to play and be kids. For many of the children, this is the first home that they have ever had.

Celebrating 10 Years!

Agape House of Prescott is Celebrating ten years of rebuilding the lives of families in Prescott. In the past ten years, Agape House has worked hard to provide more than 40 families (146 individuals) 32,513 nights to call home. At their “Boots & Blessings” ten year celebration Gala on July 20th, they aim to raise $200,000 to increase the number of families they can help at Agape House. Get tickets for their Gala here!

Arizona Events May 1, 2023

Educational Speakers Coming to Prescott

A new series of speakers are coming to the Prescott area. The Signature Series has quarterly speakers planned for the Prescott area. According to their website, the Signature Series is a platform “where business leaders and industry experts come together to share their knowledge, insights, and perspectives on the most pressing topics impacting businesses today.”

At the Signature Series, we believe that businesses are the foundation of community prosperity and growth. We are committed to supporting you and providing you with the information and tools you need to succeed in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.

More Information Regarding The Signature Series


> Register Here


Fall 2023 Event

RURAL HEALTH CARE

Speaker, Dr. Carol Galper, EdD

AUGUST 3, 2023
Doors open at 10 am, Speaker’s Presentation from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm

Embry Riddle: The Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium
3700 Willow Creek Rd, Prescott, AZ 86301

Speaker, Dr. Carol Galper, EdD

REGISTER HERE


 

Charity/Community Participation April 25, 2023

Local Community Fundraiser Spotlight: Back Brad

BHGRE BloomTree Realty has a couple of simple goals; deliver the best service possible to our clients and be a supporter of important causes in the community in which we live. In short, we strive to be better and give back to our communities.


Back Brad: A Fundraiser to Support Local Leader Brad Newman

100 Men Who Care, in collaboration with Prescott Area Women Who Care, is hosting a community fundraiser to help the financial needs of Yavapai Exceptional Industry’s Executive Director Emeritus Brad Newman, who suffered a stroke last year.

Brad Newman has been a leader in YEI for over 40 years and has created countless job opportunities for those with disabilities throughout Arizona. His passion for helping others and dedication to his job have inspired many within the community.

“Those who know Brad, love Brad. He has been a big part of this community for more than 40 years. He was first to step up when someone needed a hand, and now it’s our time to step in and give him one,” stated Ron Fain of Fain Signature Group, who leads the 100 Men Who Care organization.

“This event is an incredible opportunity to support an amazing man who has lived a life of selfless service while enjoying fellowship, some food and drinks with friends who all have a connection to Brad,” stated 100 Men Who Cares board member Patrick Kuykendall. “Everyone is welcome, and we hope you’ll join us in supporting Brad Newman as he continues fighting through his recovery!”  

The event will take place on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 5:00 pm behind COLT Grill in Prescott Valley on the Town Center turf park, with live music by Road One South. It will be an evening of music, food, and fundraising, with all proceeds going towards Brad’s recovery and future care. Brad’s family and community members will speak and provide stories about his recovery and his tireless service to the community. The goal is to raise $50,000+ and Bring Brad Back home to Prescott, where he can continue his care. 

Tickets are $100 per person and includes food donated by Rosa’s of Prescott Valley, and live music by Road One South. There will be a cash bar. Attendees will also have an opportunity to bid on handmade picnic tables and planters by the workers at YEI and other items donated by generous contributors during the live auction. All monies raised will go towards providing a home for Brad where he can get care and also help with his medical and insurance costs.

The event is supported by 100 Men Who Care, Prescott Area Women Who Care, Rosa’s Pizzeria in Prescott Valley, The Fain Family Foundation, and Helken & Horn Advertising Agency.

Please RSVP at https://www.100menwhocareyc.com/events.

Homeownership April 12, 2023

10 Ways to Keep Your House Safe While You’re Away

It is a fact Prescott, Arizona, is an excellent destination for a vacation. People visit Prescott from all parts of the country (and the world) to visit our beautiful town. Buy, what if you are a Prescott resident and opting out of a staycation this year and vacationing elsewhere? While you are away, there are simple strategies that you must take to ensure your home is safe while you are gone.

Before you leave town, there are a few safety tips to keep your home and possessions safe while you’re gone.
Often in the prep time for a vacation, people neglect to take simple steps to protect themselves from becoming victims of theft or vandalism.

You’ve probably covered your bases, but just in case, here are ten necessary precautions you can take when leaving for a vacation:

  1. Have someone collect your mail and newspaper daily. If you cannot have someone pick up your deliveries, have the Post Office hold your mail and put your newspaper subscription on a vacation hold.
  2. Do not draw attention to something different at your home; leave shades and blinds in regular positions.
  3. Purchase inexpensive timers from the hardware store and put at least two lights and a radio on automatic timers.
  4. Have someone leave trash at your curb on garbage collection day. Even though arranging for someone to set out your trash may be challenging, this detail catches the thief’s attention.
  5. Have someone park a car in your driveway occasionally. If you leave your car outside, arrange to have it moved sometimes.
  6. Leave a key with a trusted neighbor in case of an emergency. Inform the neighbor about where you are going and your expected return date.  Leave them a way to contact you in case of an emergency.
  7. Lock all windows and doors before you go. Remember to double-check the basement and garage doors.
  8. On extended trips, have someone maintain your landscaping (grass mowed, leaves raked, etc.)
  9. Consider turning off your home’s water main to prevent possible damage from a burst pipe.  If this isn’t an option, turn off your wash machine valve because this is the number one culprit to explode when no one is home.
  10. Be careful how much you check in on social media while on vacation. If your privacy settings are incorrect, you might reveal your vacant home to strangers!

We sincerely hope you stay safe and have a great vacation. It is worth repeating Prescott is a fantastic place for your vacation. It may be time to purchase a vacation home or a vacation rental. It may be time to call Prescott your home. Give BloomTree Realty a call, we would love to show you what is available. Contact us at (928) 443-8800.

Recipes March 30, 2023

Refreshing Beverages to Pump Up Your Festivities!

We are officially in Spring! Bring on the blooming flowers and warmer weather! With Spring comes baby showers, house warmings, family get-togethers, and more. If you want that extra special touch to make your event pop, consider adding a refreshing spring/summer beverage! Here are a few flavorful options:

Lemonade Stand

Consider setting up a lemonade stand for your guests to enjoy! A classic summer drink, lemonade is cool and refreshing. Get creative, and add other fruity flavors, such as strawberry or watermelon.

Ice Tea Bar

Like the lemonade stand, an iced tea bar is a great option for your event. Offer pre-mixed pitchers of various flavors, or opt for a build-your-own station! Allow each guest to customize their drink.

Mimosa Station

Champagne, sparkling wine, chilled citrus juice, and you are set. Have several pitchers full of juice combinations and encourage them to mix and match until they find their favorite flavor combination. Offer a few bottles of ginger ale or sparkling water for a non-alcoholic option.

Frozen Drinks

If you want to make an impression, frozen drinks are the way to go! Keep it classic with a daiquiri or pina colada station, or get creative and offer unique frozen drinks like mango margaritas or strawberry bellinis. Whatever options you choose, your guests will love these refreshing summer cocktails!

Wine Bar

Create an elegant wine bar for a sophisticated touch. Have a few chilled wines ready to go, and consider offering a selection of cheeses or charcuterie boards to accompany the drinks.

Signature Cocktails

Personalize your event with mocktails or cocktails. Below we have included a few customizable mocktail options to spark some inspiration: 


Mai Tai Mocktail Party Punch Recipe by Liz on Call

Ingredients: 

  • 1 liter orange juice
  • 1 liter pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/2 cup almond syrup
  • 1/2 cup grenadine
  • 1 liter sparkling/seltzer water
  • ice
  • oranges, limes, cherries for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a pitcher mix together orange juice, pineapple juice, lime juice and almond syrup.
  2. You can keep this punch base in the fridge until party time.
  3. Once ready to serve you can serve in individual glasses by adding ice to a cup, filling the cup 1/2 full of juice, adding a splash of grenadine and then topping it off with seltzer water and garnishing with fruit.
  4. To serve in a big punch bowl, mix grenadine and seltzer water to juice and stir together, then add ice and fruit.

Lemon Drop Mocktail by Food Banjo

Ingredients: 

  • 1.25 oz lemon juice
  • ¾ oz simple syrup
  • 2.5 oz club soda, chilled
  • ice
  • sugar

Instructions:

  • Place a small pile of sugar on a plate. Take a martini glass and either with a lemon half or water, wet the rim. Dip the rim of the glass in the sugar, getting a nice coating around the rim.
  • Into a cocktail shaker, add ice cubes, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Shake together for 15 seconds.
  • Strain the mixture into the martini glass. Top with club soda.
  • Garnish with lemon peel or anything else you’d like! Enjoy.

Fizzy Basil Lemonade Mocktail by Kitchn

  • For each drink, gently muddle about 2 tablespoons of torn fresh basil leaves in the bottom of a tall glass. Add ice and fill the glass about halfway with lemonade (homemade or store-bought). Top the glass off with a pour of seltzer, and stir together. To serve, garnish with fresh slices of lemon and a sprig of fresh basil.

We hope these ideas inspire you to create a festive drinking menu for your upcoming event!