Last month, just prior to our Las Vegas adventure, most of the group enjoyed a few days in the Phoeniz, Ariz., area. It was their first time there and my first visit since Spring Training 2005.

I was more excited for the Vegas part of the trip, but I quickly remembered how great the Phoenix area is. We stayed at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort. In the middle of the complex was a huge water park, including a lazy river (which had my name written all over it). There was a spa on site and golf offered at the Lookout Mountain Golf Course. There was also a nightly bonfire on the premises. There were some great dining options on site. Breakfast at the Hole-in-the-Wall was the perfect start to the day. Some of us chose the buffet while others ordered menu items, but all went away happy. We made multiple visits to Rico’s, where we enjoyed shrimp corn dogs. They had plenty of beer options, which worked well for the hot nights.

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The more adventurous in the group hiked up Camelback Mountain. They came back tired but with great stories and beautiful pictures of the scenery. Of course, Arizona in March means Spring Training. We went to see our hometown Chicago White Sox play the Oakland A’s at Phoenix Municipal Stadium, which was remodeled in 2005 to become one of the best facilities in Arizona. Spring Training baseball is always special. You see young players, and every team has hope for a great season.

At the game, we enjoyed Subzero ice cream. They combine fresh cream mixes with cryogenics to produce delicious ice cream, completely made to order. You control the flavors, the flavor strength, texture and even basic temperature. Babbo Italian is another great restaurant we tried. The kitchen is in full view of the dining area, providing a unique experience. I can’t list all of the great food, but some of our favorites were pistachio mozzarella, roasted asparagus and the garlic cheese crostini.

We were only in Arizona for a couple days, but we packed in a lot of fun. It’s funny to me, because I only went there because that is where everyone else was starting before the Las Vegas leg. Now, I am already thinking about a return trip next year with more time in Arizona!

— John Wroblewski, distribution specialist