Admit it, fall brings many welcomed changes and seasonal delights. Although we’re still enduring the triple-digit heat, we can now 1) get a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Starbucks and 2) enjoy football in its three most popular forms; NFL, college and, of course, fantasy.

Since Arizona State University  kicked off their season at home a week ago with a 63-6 victory over Northern Arizona University, despite their new coach, Todd Graham, and the new quarterback(s). The Sun Devils will host Illinois Saturday and here’s their complete 2012 schedule.

The University of Arizona was also victorious in their 2012 season kick off against Toledo Saturday. The game, which was Rich Rodriguez’s coaching debut in the desert, ended in overtime Wildcats 24, Rockets 17. What’s next for the Wildcats? Oklahoma State will be hitting U of A Saturday and here’s their complete 2012 schedule.

If you missed both games, don’t worry, after making final roster cuts and naming the John Skelton their Week 1 starting quarterback, the Arizona Cardinals will host the Seattle Seahawks for their home opener Sunday. Tickets are still available here, and don’t forget to check out the rest of the Cardinals 2012 schedule.

If your fantasy football team’s roster looks just plain terrible we’re sorry, but we can’t help you. However, if you haven’t found a fantasy league (let alone a team) for this season it’s not too late to participate, NFL.com has the details here, but don’t get flagged for “Delay of Game,” get to it!

Calling all vintage shoppers, 90′s enthusiasts and lovers of independent music; Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, a Seattle-based rapper/producer/DJ/hype men/fashionisto act, are creating quite a buzz via youtube and social media outlets lately. Their latest move was releasing the single and video, Thrift Shop, off the duo’s forthcoming sophomore album, The Heist. The Heist will hit itunes Oct. 9 and The Heist World Tour will hit the Valley of the Sun Oct. 28 at Club Red in Tempe. Enjoy. *contains some explicit lyrics*

You might recognize her from TruTV’s The Smoking Gun Presents: The World’s Dumbest, as a regular panelist on Chelsea Lately or perhaps it was her unforgettable cameos in VH1′s I Love The 70s/80s/90s.

Regardless, she is Loni Love and she has been named one of the “Top 10 Comics to Watch” by Variety and Comedy Central, which is incredibly convenient for you, since she’ll be performing at Stand Up Scottsdale comedy club from August 23 through 25 as part of her 2012 international “Live, Love, Laugh” comedy tour.

Love’s career has proven that comedians can successfully transition from standup to TV and film. She has done it all and audiences keep coming back for her witty satire and political humor. Love will take the stage five time while in town, so don’t miss her. Click here for times or email [email protected] for reservations.

6820 East Fifth Ave. | Scottsdale | AZ | 480-447-7230

Seasons 52 has a summer deal that will have you thankful for the absurd temperatures this season guarantees.

For the month of August they have designed a new, personalized wine tasting experience to help guests explore their adventurous wine list and signature flatbreads for $15 per person.

For the wine tasting you will first select a flight of three pours from a hand-selected list chosen by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. After you’ve tasted your selections, you may then choose a full glass of your favorite selection to pair with your choice of flatbread.

This limited-time experience is available daily until 6 p.m., and will run through August 31st.

Let’s face it, if the Olympics were a drinking game and you took a shot every time you heard our national anthem, you would be in trouble. So we’ve come up with another way to honor all of the Olympians who have had the chance to stand at the top of the podium and sing along to the Star Spangled Banner. This week’s featured cocktail, the Chilean Pisco Star-Spangled Punch from The Kitchn, is dedicated to Team USA.

Ingredients

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup fresh-squeezed, strained lemon juice

1 750-ml bottle Chilean Pisco

1 quart cold water

1 star fruit, sliced into 1/4- inch thick slices

The peel of 3 lemons, each cut in a 1/2 inch wide spiral with a vegetable peeler

It’s that time of year again. No, not preseason football. Back-to-school shopping! While it can be a daunting task, why not take this opportunity to give back to agencies that help provide school supplies to kids and classrooms in need? Here are some local donation efforts underway:

Maricopa County Education Service Agency has teamed up with the Maricopa County Home and Garden Show to collect donations Friday through Sunday at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale (1 Cardinal Drive). MCESA will be on hand near Gate 2 collecting backpacks and school supplies. Donate a backpack and receive two free tickets to the Home Show. Donate any of the three following items and receive one free ticket to the Home Show: 4-pack of glue sticks; Pack of ballpoint pens; Box of no. 2 pencils (12/box); Box of colored pencils (12/box); Box of water-based markers (8/box); Box of crayons; 4-pack of dry erase markers; Single subject spiral-bound notebook; package of loose-leaf notebook paper; Pocket folders; or Scotch tape.

Radio Disney is going on tour with it’s annual Back-To-School drive benefitting Boys & Girls Clubs of America. They’ll be in Phoenix August 11 with AM 1580 at Macerich Malls’ Superstition Springs Center from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. Kids and families are invited to donate school supplies which will then be provided to local clubs in need.

While you’re shopping for your own school supplies or getting the kids immunized at Walgreens this season, don’t forget to donate school supplies now through August 18 in the Kids In Need Foundation collection box at the front of the store. Suggested items include crayons, glue sticks, markers, filler paper, pencils, pens, notebooks, folders and erasers.

Intentional or accidental? You decide. More here.

Here is a piece on the Olympics that does not involve talk of spoilers, medals or Michael Phelps (not that these topics aren’t worth talking about). This is a specially-tailored collection of unique Olympic coverage that highlights the unconventional, strange, humorous and downright unbelievable headlines related to London’s 2012 summer games (thus far). Here the are, in no particular order:

Family kept grandparents’ death secret from Chinese diver until she won gold medal

8 Olympic badminton players kicked out of games (for trying to lose on purpose)

Grindr to a halt: Gay dating website crashes due to overuse within minutes of Olympic athletes arriving in London

China swimmer Ye Shiwen smashes record … draws doping speculation

South Korean fencer refuses medal

Boris Johnson, London mayor, stranded hilariously on zip line entering Olympic park

Still need some more world-class cynicism and snark? Here’s the Hater’s Guide to the 2012 London Summer Olympics. If eye candy is more your thing, here’s the Sexiest Olympic Athletes.

The London 2012 Olympics are in full swing and we’ve heard enough fish and chips puns to last us until the 2016 Summer games in Rio de Janeiro.

That said, the Olympic fervor that has overcome news outlets, advertising and social media is a welcomed (albeit competitive and patriotic) change of pace. And food is no exception, if anything it is yet another catalyst for heritage and pride. On that note, here’s a redux of this week’s happenings in our favorite food blogs:

While we’re on the subject of the Olympics (and who isn’t, btw) we would like to take a moment and congratulate SanTan Brewing on their gold and bronze medals at the U.S. Beer Championships in Atlanta. According to Mouth By Southwest, more than 1,650 beers competed in 65 categories. Read about their victory here.

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Just when we thought the Musical Instrument Museum couldn’t get any better, they bring Elvis back to life. While a hologram concert performance might be one possibility, we’re simply referring to the museum’s exhibit that showcases The King of Rock and Roll’s time in Arizona.

In celebration of Elvis Week, August 10 through 16, the MIM has everything from The King’s jumpsuits while on tour here in the 1970s to his sheet music and guitar on display.

Another connection Elvis had to Arizona was the time he spent in Apache Junction while filming “Charro!” prior to its 1969 release. The film’s plot revolves around Elvis’s character, Jess Wade, who has been falsely accused of stealing a war cannon from Mexican revolutionaries.

According to azcentral.com, “Elvis’s bound copy of the movie’s screen play, originally called ‘Come Sundown, Come Hell,’” will also be on display for the duration of Elvis week.” The MIM will also feature screenings of “Charro!”

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Since we share your love for local real estate, we know you will be as excited as we were to hear that the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service has created a very unique version of a classic board game to commemorate its 30th anniversary.

Goodbye Monopoly, hello ARMLS-opoly!

A few of the key changes that make this board game clever: the names of the properties have been changed to reflect local cities (and prices accordingly), jail has been chanced to “Rules Class” and the utilities spaces are now realtor association groups.

The objective remains the same: the last player with the most properties and cash wins. »READ MORE

When someone mentions the dog days of summer, we think there is a good chance they might actually be referring to National Dog Day. Each year a variety of celebrations and events take place in honor our four-legged friends and family members and it’s never too early to start planning.

According to the National Dog Day website, August 26 was dubbed a holiday by pet lifestyle expert, Colleen Paige, and is a way to pay homage to our companions for their unconditional love and unquestioning loyalty. The website goes on to acknowledge that dogs play a huge role in our lives. In addition to making ideal best friends, they also work as service and therapy animals and serve alongside law enforcement and military members.

Here are just some of the events taking place in honor of our beloved canines as well as the rescue programs and shelters that work tirelessly on their behalf: »READ MORE

Former Arizona Cardinal, now Seattle Seahawk, Deuce Lutui lost 60 pounds after committing to a vegan diet. (LUI KIT WONG/staff photographer, The News Tribune)

This week we’re passing on a little love and inspiration from some of our famous vegan and vegetarian friends. We gaurantee you know who they are, but they weren’t always meatless. Here is a glimpse at each one of their stories:

Former 398-pound Arizona Cardinal, now 338-pound Seattle Seahawk, Deuce Lutui reportedly turned vegan after failing an NFL physical. According to Lutui’s agent, Ken Harris, “The commitment that he made to himself and his family revolved around not only being the best player, but being with them for many years to come …”

Mac Danzig is a Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competitor has also maintains a vegan diet, but that wasn’t always the case. “In 2004, I got to the point where I was sick of eating chicken … I was about a month out from a fight and I decided I was going to cut out all meat. I was working with a trainer who was vegan and he helped me make the switch. I won that fight and went on a 12-fight winning streak.”

Mashable is talking about it, The Huffington Post is talking about it and thanks to Twitter it seems as though another season of our beloved show, Arrested Development, is finally in the works.

While a possible season 4 was first announced in late 2011, we’ve heard these rumors before (remember, there was supposed to be a movie too at one point). But this time, thanks to the tweeting of @batemanjason, and show’s central protagonist, and @RealRonHoward, executive producer and narrator, we’re believing what we’re reading this time.

Last week Howard tweeted a shot of Bateman’s script for his character Michael Bluth, then earlier this week Bateman tweeted photos of his son George Michael Bluth (Michael Cerra). Here is the first and second shot that also give us a peek at the set. According to another tweet by Bateman, filming is set to begin mid August.

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In honor of the London 2012 Summer Olympics opening ceremony this evening, we couldn’t help but share this royally appropriate cocktail. Summer Gold, originally created by Basil Hayden, is the literal embodiment of Olympic spirit. This summer games-inspired cocktail, courtesy of Guys Gab, mixes classic British tea with America’s favorite spirit, Bourbon.

Ingredients
1 1/2 parts Basil Hayden’s Bourbon
1/2 parts Pimm’s® No.1
1/2 part Cold Black Tea
1/2 part Simple Syrup
Mint Leaves
Ribbon of Orange Peel

Preparation
1. In a metal tumbler, muddle mint into the simple syrup until mint becomes aromatic.
2. Add remaining ingredients and ice.
3. Stir together until tumbler gets cold.
4. Top off with more ice and garnish with fresh mint and an orange peel twist.

Credit: Reuters/Andrew Winning

What would the Olympics be without the torch relay or the opening ceremony? With all the hype behind tonight’s royal schedule of events we’re not willing to find out.

With “Isle of Wonder” as the event’s theme and reports that Queen Elizabeth and James Bond (Daniel Craig) will  be in attendance, we’re sure you will not want to miss the official kick start to the 2012 Summer Olympics in just a matter of hours. Here in Arizona that means tuning into NBC (12News) beginning at 7:30 p.m., which is really 3:30 p.m. in London.

Rumors (that we hope are true) include a good possibility that we’ll see a live performance by Sir Paul McCartney and that we should expects guest appearances by numerous barnyard animals. Additionally, we’re reading that the ceremony is being directed by Award winning filmmaker Danny Boyle and, according to AOL Sporting News, that the sound of the world’s largest harmonically tuned bell will mark the beginning of the show.

For the full events and results schedule, click here. To watch the games streaming live or for broadcast information, click here.

If you answered yes, The Cameron Team has just discovered the perfect desert mountain property opportunity for you. Located at 41247 N. 95th St. in Scottsdale, this luxury resort-style estate has just been reduced to $1,529,566.

According to Jeff Cameron in an update posted Thursday, ”smaller homes sold last year for $4 million dollars” which is impressive since this property boasts 10,690 square feet.

What’s the catch? Well, the estate is not entirely finished. The wet bar, wine cellar, pool,  six bathrooms and two half baths are among the unfinished amenities.

“(The) home is 85 to 90 percent complete,” Cameron added. “Needs some tile work, minor repairs, light and plumbing fixtures.” If that challenge doesn’t scare you, read on!

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Who doesn’t love college football? Not that we’re biased, but because we are located in the heart of Sun Devil country we bring you the latest and greatest from Arizona State University’s Sun Devil Athletics.

What’s a team without its fans? Here are some ways for fans to get involved well before the season begins (in 35 days, not that we’re counting):

Sun Devil photo booths are located at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Chandler Fashion Center and Tempe Marketplace. Take a photo and create your own Sun Devil billboard. Fan photos will be randomly selected now through kickoff.

Every Friday is now #FanFriday. Sun Devil fans posting photos via Twitter or Instagram are encouraged to use hash tags #FanFriday and #FearTheFork. Submissions with the best Sun Devil pride will be featured as the face of Sun Devil Athletics every Friday.

Sun Devil football tickets are on sale now and check out the 2012 schedule here.

If the University of Arizona is more your thing, no hard feelings. Here is the complete 2012 Wildcat football schedule. And, of course, #BearDown.

Have you Heard? There may only be one Sunday left in July, but it’s not too late to visit the Heard Museum free of charge. July 29 is the last opportunity to receive free admission for everyone as part if their Summer Sundays at the Heard promotion.

The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. A variety of hands-on and interactive activities are available for children from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Steele Auditorium. Storytelling is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. and ice cream will be served at 1 p.m.

Sunday attendees will also receive a 10 percent-off coupon for one children’s book at Books & More, the museum’s bookstore and souvenir shop. The Courtyard Café is also offering kids and family lunch options.

2301 North Central Ave. | Phoenix | 85004 | (602) 252-8848

Here it is, late July and the heat has nearly turned us off to food altogether. It’s certainly too hot to cook, too hot to grocery shop and yet too hot to go out. Although getting all your vitamins and nutrients from cocktails is a tempting suggestion, we’re here to with a hodgepodge (no, not the soup) of the most important news — some of which is guaranteed to make braving the heat oh so worth it. Here’s a redux of this week’s happenings in our favorite food blogs:

Most importantly, EaterAZ has the dish on Pollo Campero’s free empanada Friday (THIS Friday).  In celebration of the tasty morsel’s menu debut this week, the location at 7745 W. Thomas Rd. will be serving free empanadas all day. Call the Thomas Road location for more info at (623) 247-1646.

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He holds the title of Iron Chef America, he recently opened two restaurants in Scottsdale and now he is set to release his second cookbook.

Jose Garces has teamed up with Lake Isle Press for the October release of The Latin Road Home: Savoring the Foods of Ecuador, Spain, Cuba, Mexico, and Peru.

The cookbook has been described as “a travelogue and a memoir, offering a fascinating and personal look back at the food traditions that have shaped the life and cooking of Chef Garces, from his family’s ancestral home in Ecuador to his ongoing work as an award-winning chef and restaurateur across the US.”

The Latin Road Home chronologically tells the story of Garces’ food journey and each destination comes to life through more than 100 recipes, food and travel photos and his personal narration.

“This book is a deeply personal project for me: it allows me to trace the cultures and cuisines that have shaped me, both personally and professionally,” Garces said. “Throughout my career, I have built upon what I know and used it to explore new and different places, and this book traces that journey – and with it, my life to this point.”

Garces’ Scottsdale restaurants, Distrito and Old Town Whiskey, are located at The Saguaro Hotel. Pre-order The Latin Road Home here.

John McCain and Amy Poehler in a photo tweeted by @SenJohnMcCain Thursday.

It’s official: Sen. John McCain will put Arizona on the map, again. This time it will be in the form of a half hour comedy spot on prime-time television.

No, seriously, the senator has reportedly wrapped filming on the set of NBC’s “Parks and Recreation” for the upcoming season 5. Just in case we had any doubt about the former presidential candidate’s acting career, he confirmed via Twitter last week: “Had a great time shooting @ParksandRecNBC today w/ Amy Poehler – I think it’s an Emmy!”

McCain was joined by Sen. Barbara Boxer (California) and Sen. Olympia Snowe (Maine) as guest stars on the show.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the bipartisan episode – titled “Ms. Knope Goes to Washington” – is expected to debut on September 27, and will center around Amy Poehler’s Leslie Knope visiting D.C. to see her boyfriend Ben Wyatt, played by Adam Scott. More on season 5 here.

The Arizona Cardinals officially kick off training camp today in Flagstaff. Without any imminent threat of another lockout and with a touch of a quarterback controversy things are looking pretty good for the upcoming 2012-2013 season.

However, we can’t talk about the Cardinals without mentioning Glendale (or the Coyotes for that matter). Let’s hope the proposed tax hikes and the financial woes of Big Red’s Westgate neighbor to the North have limited impact on University of Phoenix Stadium attendees this season. Curious what the City of Glendale is paying compared to Phoenix and the Suns?

Speaking of money, Jan Brewer is the newest Cardinals fan. Well, she should be after the franchise donated $5,000 to her Super PAC aka JAN PAC. Read Jan Brewer scores with NFL contribution.

Enough with the politics, here are some more headlines and links to help get your tailgating started this season:

Coach Whisenhunt talks training camp with ABC15

Arizona Cardinals’ Complete 2012 Training Camp and Preseason Guide via bleacherreport.com.

Via Twitter: “The @AZCardinals and Cards Camp #CardsCamp will be featured on @nflnetwork’s Inside Training Camp Live this WED and SAT. Check local listings! @nfl.”

“Well, what do you eat then?” A common question directed toward vegetarians, vegans and anyone else who makes conscious dietary modifications that differ from the mainstream. Our celiac friends are no exception, and while gluten-free options have become much more popular and increasingly accessible, this week’s mock is dedicated to the meat free AND wheat free.

First things first, according to the Mayo Clinic, “celiac disease is a digestive condition triggered by consumption of the protein gluten, which is primarily found in bread, pasta, cookies, pizza crust and many other foods containing wheat, barley or rye. People with celiac disease who eat foods containing gluten experience an immune reaction in their small intestines, causing damage to the inner surface of the small intestine and an inability to absorb certain nutrients.”

Now that you’re subtracting wheat-based flours, spelt, oats, barley and rye from an already meat-free diet, the kicker is that most faux meat and soy meat products (including textured vegetable protein) are filled with gluten. But before you think the joy of eating is gone forever, check out some of these resources:

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It’s muggy. It smells like rain. It must be July. Because we miss those double-digit temperatures like the deserts miss the rain, we’re celebrating our favorite summer storm’s namesake, the Monsoon, courtesy of FoodNetwork.com this week.

Ingredients

4 ounces unsweetened ice tea

4 ounces tangerine vodka (recommended: Grey Goose)

4 ounces sugar cane juice

1/2 key lime, juiced

Several mint leaves

1/3 cup brown sugar, for rimming glass

Preparation