Sway Events honors 2014 SWAGGER Award winners
Super SWAGGER Award Winners
Having lived in The Valley for most of her life, Katy June appreciates that Phoenix is a city that is always evolving and reinventing itself. She is especially proud of the ‘localist’ energy that many Phoenicians believe in and adhere to.
When asked what volunteerism means to her, June said, it means “making your community the place you want to live! It’s giving back to make your space, your people and your world more enjoyable. I have made lifelong friends by engaging in volunteer activities because they are supported by groups of likeminded people working toward a common goal.”
Valley native Kenny Barrett is Phoenix’s celebrated champion of urban agriculture and farming, local food, sustainable living, healthy eating and edible landscaping. Co-founder of Roosevelt Growhouse, Barrett currently works with HandsOn Greater Phoenix and plans their annual volunteer service events, including Make a Difference Day and Serve-a-Thon. He is an activist, artist and community organizer that has already made a huge difference in Phoenix.
“I hope we continue creating and adding to our sustainability plan and develop a workforce development program for young aspiring urban farmers so they can find sustainable ways to grow the abundance of food we’ll need in the future,” he said.
Designer and pioneer Ruben Gonzales is a metro Phoenix native who grew up as a b-boy in Tolleson and has since made a significant impact on The Valley’s urban art scene and cultural transformation.
“It’s been amazing watching this city become the fifth largest in the country and seeing the resurgence of local shops and restaurants in Downtown and other Valley urban areas,” he said. “To be a part of that movement has been priceless.”
His company, 11th Monk3y, spotlights his original yet affordable apparel. He also builds bicycles, metal furnishings, artwork and anything else he can imagine. He hopes to host an LGBTQ printing class one day.
The Difference Maker
Good deeds, a charitable approach, and a big heart score this award: Stacy Louis
Temptful Taste
When it comes to awesome appetizers, this starter will keep you coming back for more: “Crack Bread” at Harley’s Italian Bistro
Gift Gods
If you need inspiration for picking out the perfect present, this boutique won’t disappoint your shopping mission: Zinnia’s @ Melrose
Mobile Office
Go to work and get your job done in style. This place isn’t your typical office space: Lux
Master Mixologist
The local bartender who is mixing and shaking Phoenix up, one fabulous cocktail at a time: Gina Florio, Kobalt Park Central
Sugar Rush
Sweet tooth fanatics chose this spot to satisfy their cravings and to seek total sugar high: Urban Cookies
Braggable Brunch
When hunger calls, take your appetite and crew to the place voted as the best brunch in Phoenix: The Vig
Party of Two
This recommendation for romance makes the perfect Phoenix date spot: Cibo
Pet’s Paradise
Walk your furry friends here and unleash some serious pet pampering: Wag N’ Wash
Killer Cocktails
This bar boasts cocktail concoctions that are favored for the ideal Phoenix cheers: SideBar
Debut Menu
This new dining concept gets SWAY’s recommendation for the best new menu in town: Pizza People Pub
Freshest Festival
Fun is flourishing at Phoenix festivals. Save the date for the funkiest and freshest: Rainbows Festival
Steals & Deals
We’ve got your best buys in town when pinching your pennies: $5 Burger Mondays at Maizie’s
Photos courtesy of Sway Events and Fernando Hernandez