Questions? Feedback? Email me at [email protected] • Follow me on RATING (out of 5 McFly’s) Super Bowl party Style: 2023 toyota HigHlander HyBrid platinum 2023 toyota HigHlander HyBrid platinum A s you may be aware, Phoenix hosted the Super Bowl and Phoenix Open the same weekend a few weeks ago. Some may say, for a week, we were the center of the sport and entertainment universe. In true McFly fashion, the Mrs. and I had to go our and partake in the festivities. We acted like ballers and the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum played the part quite well. Like Hollywood, let’s start with looks. The Platinum trim rocked it and the 20 inch black alloy wheels were the icing on the cake to make the Highlander NOT look like a soccer mom whip but more stylish and cool. Toyota has made small changes to make the Highlander a head turner. The 35/34 MPG is awesome. The cabin is spacious and has a nice little touch of style. The technology is solid and the 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine delivers a nice amount of pep but you won’t be winning any quarter mile sprints. Priced at $53,760, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum is worth it but I’d love to see that price in the mid-40’s to really hit critical mass. Pick-Up: Handling: Comfort: Passenger Comfort: Safety & Security: Sound System: Access to Controls: Bells & Whistles: Overall: Looks: 34 March 9th–March 15th, 2023 phoenixnewtimes.com phoenix new Times St. Patrick'S Day GuiDe St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Cruise Lake Pleasant Cruises 8708 W Harbor Blvd. Peoria LakePleasantCruises.com Enjoy a sunset cruise on beautiful Lake Pleasant, while dining on a delicious, traditional St. Patrick’s Day catered dinner. Relax with 70’s, 80s, and 90s music, as well as, drinks from their full-service bar. All ages are welcome. Reservations are required. Adult tickets start at $85, children’s tickets start at $55. Arizona Renaissance Festival 12601 EAST US HWY 60, Gold Canyon Arizona.RenFestInfo.com Escape to the 50-acre 16th Century village where Mermaids, Monarchs and Magical Moments await thee. With over 200 shops of handmade items; blown glass, leather goods and jewelry, 16 stages of nonstop entertainment; performances of music, dance, comedy, falconry, acrobatics and 3 jousting tournaments daily – there is something for everyone! Watch artisans work as they create a masterpiece right before your eyes. It’s a treasure trove! Eat, drink and be merry as you make your way through the faire. Feast like Royalty at the Exclusive Pleasure Feast! Join them as they celebrate 35 years of cheers! Colt Grill BBQ and Spirits 202 S Montezuma, Phoenix Coltgrill.com Colt Grill is throwing a St Patty’s Day shindig! Featuring prime grade house cured Corned Beef dinners! Live DJ playing Irish favorites along with games, raffles and giveaways, and more, all on the historic Whiskey Row! Bases and Brews Music Fest 7819 E Paradise Ln, Surprise Basesandbrewsfest.com The inaugural City of Surprise Bases and Brews Music Fest is scheduled for March 24 to 26, 2023 inspired by Major League Baseball Spring Training, at Mark Coronado Park in Surprise. Bases and Brews Music Fest is a family- friendly event featuring national and regional entertainment, a carnival midway, spectacular food, and curated vendors. During the day, the stage will feature live music from local award-winning artists and community groups, followed by a nationally renowned headliner each night. Throughout the festival grounds, guests can experience a carnival midway with over 50 rides and games, as well as interactive activities for all ages. There will also be an opportunity to indulge in your favorite festival foods, beer and spirits. Stay tuned for announcements on headlining musical performances. Tickets are on sale at BasesandBrewsFest. com. Ticket prices for kids ages 5 through 12 will start at $20, general admission adult tickets will start at $30. Festival entry for children four and under is free. Ostrich Festival 745 E Germann Rd, Chandler Ostrichfestival.com Get the Paddy started at the Ostrich Festival this St. Patrick’s Day weekend! The festival is open March 16-19th. It’s known as one of the premier festivals in the southwest and a long-standing community tradition. The Ostrich Festival is a family-friendly festival featuring national and local award- winning entertainment, thrilling stage shows, over 50 carnival midway rides and games, classic festival food and interactive activities for all ages. Paint & Sip Class The Painters Lounge 100 W Portland St Suite 108, Phoenix thepaintersLounge.com Don’t miss your chance to relax, create and sip this St. Patrick’s Day at the Painters Lounge. Painters Lounge is offering Paint & Sip Classes Friday March 17th. Classes start at $39. Visit thepainterslounge. com for more information.