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Phoenix is known for its sunshine, desert landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene—but it’s also a fantastic city for family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend plans or a visitor planning a trip, there’s no shortage of engaging, educational, and exciting activities that kids will remember for years to come.

When planning your itinerary, the key is finding attractions that strike the perfect balance between fun and enrichment. In Phoenix, families can explore a mix of outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, and cultural experiences tailored to spark curiosity in young minds.

One of the first stops for families is the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. This interactive destination is a must-visit for parents searching for ideas on what to do in Phoenix with kids. With thoughtfully designed exhibits that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and exploration, the museum offers something for children of all ages. From imaginative play areas to art projects and STEM-focused activities, it’s the type of place where learning feels like pure fun.

Beyond museums, Phoenix offers plenty of outdoor activities that cater to children’s sense of adventure. The Phoenix Zoo is a favorite among families, with over 3,000 animals and special programs that teach kids about wildlife conservation. For an even more immersive nature experience, the Desert Botanical Garden allows children to discover the beauty of the Sonoran Desert through guided walks, seasonal butterfly exhibits, and interactive nature trails.

If your kids enjoy being active, the city’s parks and hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the outdoors while burning off energy. Papago Park, with its easy hiking paths and iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation, is both family-friendly and scenic. Many families also enjoy Encanto Park, which features playgrounds, picnic spots, and even paddleboat rentals for a leisurely day out.

Cultural activities are another way to make family time in Phoenix meaningful. The Heard Museum introduces children to Native American history and art through engaging exhibits, storytelling events, and hands-on workshops. For music and performance lovers, the Arizona Science Center often hosts live demonstrations and special events that make learning exciting.

Phoenix also has a thriving food scene, and kids are part of the equation. Many local restaurants offer kid-friendly menus and outdoor seating where families can relax. Some even host themed nights or hands-on cooking classes designed for young chefs.

To make the most of your time in Phoenix, consider mixing indoor and outdoor activities. This way, you can enjoy the city’s beautiful weather while also having backup plans for hotter afternoons. Pair a morning hike with an afternoon museum visit, or spend the day alternating between play areas and quiet educational moments.

In the end, Phoenix offers a wide variety of experiences that make it easy to keep kids entertained and engaged. With so many options, from interactive museums to outdoor adventures, families can create lasting memories together in this dynamic desert city.

Todd Troxel’s career in basketball is a masterclass in combining relentless dedication with innovative coaching. Over more than two decades, he has influenced elite athletes, led teams to championships across continents, and earned a reputation as a coach who not only wins games but transforms players’ careers. His journey is a story of persistence, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every player he works with.

Early Years and Rise in Player Development

Troxel’s foundation was built in elite player training, working extensively with NBA talent before transitioning into women’s basketball. His sessions were intense, detail-oriented, and rooted in the belief that daily discipline creates long-term success. In his view, excellence was not a switch to be turned on during game day, but a habit formed through countless hours of precise, focused practice.

Among the high-profile athletes he trained were:

• Joel Przybilla – The #9 NBA Draft pick, known as a defensive specialist for the Milwaukee Bucks and Portland Trail Blazers. Troxel helped refine his footwork, post defense, and rim protection techniques, ensuring he could guard some of the league’s most dominant big men.

• OJ Mayo – The #3 NBA Draft pick, a dynamic scorer with stints on the Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and Milwaukee Bucks. Troxel focused on sharpening Mayo’s shooting mechanics, ball handling, and decision-making under pressure.

These early experiences honed Troxel’s understanding of top-tier athletic preparation—knowledge he would later adapt to elevate the women’s game. He learned that while the men’s and women’s games have different dynamics, the principles of preparation, conditioning, and mental toughness remain universal.

Championship Success Abroad

Troxel’s coaching career took on a global dimension when he joined UMMC Ekaterinburg in Russia as an assistant coach from 2013 to 2017. The club was a powerhouse in European women’s basketball, attracting some of the world’s best talent. There, Troxel played a key role in guiding the team to Euroleague championships in 2013 and 2016, along with multiple finals appearances and consistent top-three finishes. His responsibilities included skill development, scouting opponents, and implementing game-specific strategies that maximized the strengths of star players.

After Russia, Troxel took his expertise to China, joining the Shanghai Sharks organization. His tenure there was marked by notable achievements:

• Leading the junior team to two championships, instilling professional-level discipline in young athletes.

• Helping the senior squad qualify for the CBA playoffs, a significant milestone for the club.

His ability to succeed in such different basketball environments showcased his adaptability and commitment to excellence. Troxel embraced each culture, learning not only the language of the game but also the cultural nuances that helped him connect with players on a deeper level.

Partnership with Diana Taurasi

One of the most defining chapters in Troxel’s career was his partnership with Diana Taurasi, widely recognized as the greatest women’s basketball player in history. Their collaboration began in Russia, where Taurasi was a key player for UMMC Ekaterinburg.

What started as occasional training sessions quickly evolved into a daily, high-intensity routine. Troxel introduced a more physical, NBA-inspired training approach into her preparation—one that blended skill drills, strength work, and film study.

Beyond physical preparation, Troxel’s role extended to strategic input. He analyzed opponents, provided breakdowns of defensive tendencies, and suggested in-game adjustments that often proved decisive. This close working relationship was built on trust and mutual respect, with Troxel describing Taurasi as “like a sister.” That personal bond translated into professional success, with Taurasi consistently performing at the highest level under his guidance.

Coaching Philosophy

Troxel’s coaching principles are straightforward but powerful, rooted in his years of experience across levels and continents:

1. Never stop learning – Continuously study the game at all levels, from the NBA to international leagues, always looking for new ideas and techniques to integrate.

2. Never get outworked – Approach each session with full energy and precision, setting the standard for players to follow.

3. Tell the truth – Elite athletes value honesty over empty praise; constructive criticism is essential for growth.

By combining technical expertise with a deep respect for his players as people, Troxel has built relationships that last well beyond the final buzzer. His players often cite not only the improvement in their skills but also the life lessons they take away from working with him.

Personal Life and Cultural Perspective

Troxel’s years coaching abroad enriched his cultural perspective and ability to connect with players from all backgrounds. In Russia, he learned to navigate the unique pressures of coaching in a league with both local stars and international legends. In China, he adapted to a system where basketball development was closely tied to national programs.

Off the court, Troxel enjoys traveling, learning about different cultures, and spending time with his family. Now a father to a young daughter, he is committed to teaching her the same values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity that have defined his career. The lessons he imparts to his athletes are the same ones he hopes will guide her through life.

The Road Ahead

Troxel’s future is rooted in the same principle he teaches his athletes: get better every single day. Whether he’s developing college players, guiding professionals, or consulting for international programs, his mission remains the same—to inspire, mentor, and elevate everyone he coaches.

His career arc—from NBA workouts to Euroleague glory, from Chinese championships to NCAA competition—is proof that great coaching blends skill, strategy, and a genuine commitment to the people behind the jerseys. As the game continues to evolve, Troxel’s combination of global experience, technical precision, and personal connection will keep him at the forefront of player development for years to come.

For the athletes fortunate enough to work under his guidance, the benefits go far beyond the court. They gain not only better jump shots or defensive footwork but also a mindset built to succeed in life’s many arenas. That, perhaps, is Todd Troxel’s greatest championship.

The smell of fresh bread, the sight of a beautifully decorated cake – there's something magical about a bakery. In Georgia, this magic is a way of life. From the bustling streets of Atlanta to the charming squares of Savannah, the Peach State is home to a vibrant baking scene. But what are the secrets behind their success? We're taking a peek behind the counter to uncover the tips and tricks that make Georgia's bakeries a cut above the rest.

It turns out, you don't need a secret family recipe to bake like a pro. Much of what makes a professional bakery stand out is a commitment to the fundamentals. We spoke with several bakers, and they all agreed that precision is key. Unlike cooking, where you can often get away with a pinch of this and a dash of that, baking is a science. Using a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients, especially flour, can make a huge difference in the final product. This ensures you have the correct ratios of fat, flour, and sugar, which is critical for creating the perfect texture.

Another secret? Patience. Many of us are in a rush to get our creations into the oven, but professional bakers know that a little extra time can go a long way. Allowing your cookie dough to rest in the refrigerator overnight, for example, allows the flour to fully hydrate and the flavors to meld, resulting in a more flavorful and evenly baked cookie. This is a common practice in many of Georgia's most beloved bakeries.

The Southern Touch

Of course, it wouldn't be Southern baking without a nod to tradition. Many of Georgia's bakeries have been around for generations, passing down not just recipes, but a love for the craft. Take a stroll through any historic downtown, and you're likely to find a bakery that has been a community staple for decades. These businesses are more than just a place to buy a loaf of bread; they are a gathering place, a hub of the community, and a testament to the enduring power of a shared love for delicious food. To learn more about the history of southern desserts, check out this Ultimate Guide to Southern Desserts.

Beyond the Recipe

While precision and patience are crucial, the real secret to exceptional baking is passion. The bakers we spoke to all had one thing in common: a genuine love for what they do. It's this passion that drives them to wake up before the sun, to meticulously craft each and every pastry, and to constantly strive for perfection. It's what transforms a simple list of ingredients into a work of art.

So, the next time you bite into a warm, flaky croissant or a decadent slice of cake, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and dedication that went into it. The secrets of Georgia's bakeries aren't just about what's in the recipe; they're about the heart and soul that's poured into every creation. For a deeper dive into the science of baking, we recommend this article on Bakery Basics.

Whether you're an aspiring baker or just someone who appreciates a good sweet treat, we can all learn something from the masters. By embracing precision, patience, and a whole lot of passion, you can bring a little bit of that Georgia bakery magic into your own kitchen. And who knows, you might just discover your own secret to baking success.