From all-star sports to high-end events, locals like to keep amused with these favorites in...
Arts & Entertainment 

Best Annual Valley Event Best Automobile Auction
Barrett-Jackson-2011 Winner
One of “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions” is held right here in the Valley. Barrett-Jackson is a big-time attraction for car collectors, automobile fans and the rest of the party-lovin’ community. Auctions, VIP events, seminars and other special events draw huge crowds during auction periods. www.barrett-jackson.com.

Best Annual Charity Event
Compassion with Fashion, Arizona Humane Society-2011 Winner
The Arizona Humane Society presents its 14th annual Compassion with Fashion luncheon and fundraiser March 17, pleasing the community with its one-of-a-kind raffle, fashion show and pet adoption event. Compassion with Fashion helps provide care for thousands of homeless animals around the Valley. www.azhumane.org/cwf/2012.

Best Annual Fashion Event
Scottsdale Fashion Week-2011 Winner
Fashionistas from around the Valley dive into the glamour and beauty of the annual Scottsdale Fashion Week, which showcases emerging and well-known designers and hot trends. This inside look at the fashion scene attracts thousands of interested (and well-dressed) fans each year. www.scottsdalefashionweek.com.

Best Annual Gala-2011 Winner
Suns & Stars Gala, Phoenix Suns Charities-2011 Winner
This prestigious fundraising event, which hugely benefits Phoenix Suns Charities, gives Valley residents the chance to mingle with Phoenix Suns stars and alumni, while enjoying entertainment and a divine dinner. www.nba.com/suns/charities/gala.html.

Favorite Special Event
DJ Mr. P-Body-2011 Winner
This highly respected music professional will bring his 15 years of experience to your event and have everyone dancing and singing the night away. Specializing in fashion shows, galas and receptions of all kinds, Mr. P-Body is a Valley favorite, offering the best playlist to liven up just about any gathering. www.myspace.com/misterpbody.

Best Local Band/Musician
The Walkens
These musical veterans have come together to create one very talented band, The Walkens. With the experience of performing overseas, this local band is often booked for public and private affairs and interests listeners with its vast variety of sounds and genres. www.thewalkens.com.

Best Concert Venue
US Airways Center-2011 Winner
Since it opened in 1992, US Airways Center, located in Downtown Phoenix, has hosted big-name sporting and entertainment events while also providing many amenities and restaurants for guests. The Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury and Arizona Rattlers call the center home. www.usairwayscenter.com.

Best Haunted House
Dark Scares Haunted Attraction-2011 Winner
With more than 10,000 square feet of terror, Dark Scares is one of Arizona’s premier haunted houses. With the constant addition of new props, effects and scary themes to its indoor, air-conditioned facility, guests leave comfortable yet spooked and certainly in the Halloween spirit. www.darkscares.com. Best Local Band/Musician The Walkens These musical veterans have come together to create one very talented band, The Walkens. With the experience of performing overseas, this local band is often booked for public and private affairs and interests listeners with its vast variety of sounds and genres. www.darkscares.com.

Best Museum Musical
Instrument Museum-2011 Winner
An extensive collection of instruments and music from around the world is sure to catch the eyes and ears of anyone who explores the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix. This museum features streamed music, limited-time exhibitions, instrument collections from other countries, as well as special events and programs. www.themim.org.

Best Sporting Event
Waste Management Phoenix Open-2011 Winner
The Waste Management Phoenix Open attracts golfers and fans of all ages to the TPC Scottsdale each winter. Apart from all the fun on the fairways, the well-attended sporting events raises millions of dollars for charity and impresses with its eco-friendly practices. www.wmphoenixopen.com.

Best Arizona Cheerleaders or Dance Team
ASU Cheerleaders-2011 Winner
Providing endless entertainment and spirit during Arizona State University sporting events and programs, the ASU cheerleaders sure know how to make Sparky proud. The team delivers high-energy performances and motivation for the school and community alike. www.thesundevils.com.

Best pro Arizona Sports Team
Phoenix Mercury-2011 Winner
In 2011, the impressive women of the Phoenix Mercury advanced to the Western Conference Finals and continued to strengthen its ever- popular and thriving team. Tickets are available for the 2012 season, which tips off in May. www.phoenixmercury.com.

Most Elite Men’s Group
Phoenix Thunderbirds-2011 Winner
Since 1937, The Thunderbirds have ruled the Valley and played a huge role in creating the Waste Management Phoenix Open with the help of Bob Goldwater, an early Thunderbird inductee who was a golf lover. This exclusive group of men, who have all been nominated by members, has a deep passion for sports and helping the community. www.wmphoenix open.com/thunderbirds.

Best Wedding Venue
The Farm at South Mountain-2011 Winner
Tying the knot in this special desert oasis is a unique experience for everyone in attendance. The elegant groves of trees, expansive land and breathtaking venues result in the perfect combination of luxury and romance for any wedding. For the utmost convenience in planning the Big Day, The Farm offers many special event and catering packages. www.thefarmatsouthmountain.com. Best Special Event Venue The Boulders Resort Combining luxury with the beauty of the surrounding desert, The Boulders Resort in Cave Creek is a sought-after destination for tourists as well as locals planning weddings and other important events. On-site gardens and breathtaking rock formations result in can’t-beat backdrops for photo ops. www.thefarmatsouthmountain.com.