If you haven't heard of Ahwatukee, it's ok. We get that a lot. Ahwatukee is the suburb just south of Downtown Phoenix, Arizona. We have a population of about 77,061 people. If you live here, you know just how awesome Ahwatukee is and all the ups and downs of living in one of the most unpronounceable towns in Arizona. Here are 10 things you know to be true if you're from Ahwatukee...
1. You cried when Barnes & Noble closed
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It's still too soon. *crying silently* Barnes & Noble was the best hang out in town and it just vanished. Without even saying goodbye. You will be greatly missed, dear friend.
2. The freeway fiasco drives you nuts
Ahwatukee fought valiantly to keep Pecos Road from becoming a freeway, but alas, construction has started and there's not much we can do now. We must hold our heads up and be brave as homes are demolished, churches are relocated, and pollution increases.
3. The AMC remodel is the best thing to happen to that plaza
Yes! While Barnes & Noble got thrown out, AMC made up for it by revamping themselves into the coolest movie theater around! The seats recline and it's like sitting in your own living room (if you live with about 30 other family members).
4. The Ice Den (aka Polar Ice) is the real summer hang out
Arizona is hot. Really hot. One of the only escapes is going somewhere cool. What's cooler than an ice skating rink? You've lived in 'Tukee a long time if you still remember when it was called Polar Ice.
5. The South Mountain lights are a sign of home
Maybe it's just me, but when I see those red lights on the poles of South Mountain, I know I'm home. They may not be there just for decoration, but I've always found them to be quite beautiful.
6. The Tukee Bowl is more intense than the Super Bowl
Desert Vista High School vs Mountain Point High School. This game gets heated, and it's the best game of the year by far.
7. Pecos pool all summer long
Another way to stay cool is swimming. While many people have pools in their backyard, nothing beats a public pool with water slides!
8. There is frozen yogurt around every corner
This is definitely a plus. There are at least six different frozen yogurt places around town.
9. Getting a second Chipotle rocked our world
There was a Chipotle. Now there are two. Double the burritos. Double the fun.
10. Telling people where Ahwatukee is
This is truly a struggle. "It's below South Mountain if you know where that is... It's kinda west of Chandler..." Ugh.
All in all, Ahwatukee is, in my opinion, the best place around. It's so much fun to be here and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else!
