Air France Introduces Phoenix-Paris Nonstop Flights
Photo courtesy of city of Phoenix

Air France has announced the launch of a nonstop service from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, starting May 23. This inaugural route, the first direct flight between Phoenix and France, will operate three times weekly using the Boeing 787-900 Dreamliner.

Flights are scheduled to leave Paris at 10:10 a.m. and arrive in Phoenix at 12:10 p.m., with return flights departing Phoenix at 2:10 p.m. and arriving in Paris at 9:15 a.m. the next day. The service is expected to significantly enhance travel and business links between the two cities.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego highlighted the route as a major milestone for the city, anticipating new opportunities for exploration and business. The Dreamliner aircraft will feature a three-class configuration with a total capacity of 279 seats. The new service is projected to contribute a $30 million annual economic impact to the Phoenix community.

Community Gathering Rescheduled
The long-awaited Sheaborhood Community Party has been officially rescheduled to April 6. This engaging community event will be hosted at Mercury Mine Basin Park, situated at 3325 E. Mountain View Rd., in Phoenix, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Residents should be on the lookout for the Save the Date notice, which will soon be delivered to their mailboxes. The event is an opportunity for the community to gather, enjoy the park’s scenic surroundings, and participate in a variety of entertaining activities. Community members are encouraged to mark their calendars to join in the fun and festivities.

New Aldi Store Opens
A new Aldi grocery store opened in the area to much local fanfare. Located at 4555 E. Cactus Rd., in Phoenix, the store opened its doors on February 1 following a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Aldi is known for its unique shopping model designed to keep prices low. Shoppers are reminded to bring their own bags and a quarter for a shopping cart, which is refundable upon return. This approach, along with a no-coupons policy, is part of Aldi’s strategy to offer competitive pricing.

The store offers an array of products, with over 90% being Aldi exclusive brands. While this might mean limited brand-name availability, according to company representatives this strategy means more value for your money, particularly in fast-growing categories like fresh produce, gluten-free, and organic items. Aldi’s SimplyNature line, offering organic or non-GMO products, has expanded from 30 to 200 items since its launch.

For more information, visit aldi.us.

Meet Paradise Valley’s Featured Artist Larry Brecker Over Coffee
Photo courtesy of Larry Brecker

The Town of Paradise Valley’s Arts Board is excited to present a unique opportunity to meet and mingle with renowned fine art photographer Larry Brecker. These exclusive Coffee with the Artist sessions are set for February 7 and April 19, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the Town Hall and Community Room, located at 6401 E. Lincoln Dr.

Brecker, alongside his wife Carol, an accomplished ikebana artist, will be the center of these events. The couple will showcase their artistic talents and share insights into their work. Brecker has been designated as the featured artist for Paradise Valley Town Hall for the 2023-24 period. His exhibition, which includes 35 stunning pieces of photography focused on Arizona’s native flora and influenced by the art of ikebana, is open for public viewing during the town hall’s regular hours.

The Breckers will also be signing copies of their new book, “Desert Inspired,” a beautiful fusion of Larry’s photography and his wife’s floral artistry. The book is a visual treat for art and nature enthusiasts alike. For more information, visit paradisevalleyaz.gov.