This summer, umbrella drink cocktails for a great price are easy to come by at Polynesian-inspired Drift Lounge. Drift recently announced their new summer happy hour specials, which last from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Drift has always been a Scottsdale favorite for its laid-back, tropical and Tiki-inspired decor mixed with a modern, sophisticated edge. The hotspot now features a complimentary Polynesian appetizer buffet with drink purchases, including bites like coconut shrimp that change daily.

Another good reason to stop in during the after-work hours is for the two-for-one deals on draft beer, well drinks, wine and even some specialty drinks such as Zombies, Blue Hawaiians and Scorpions. However, some of Drift’s specialty plates and cocktails like the Papua Punch and the Thai Chili Garlic Shrimp Bowl are just too good to pass up, even at full price! www.driftlounge.com

Getting a manicure or pedicure can be an indulgent and relaxing way to wind-down, but this beautifying favorite is about to become even more so with the opening of Scottsdale-based Organicures, an all-natural and vegan safe nail spa. This Sunday, June 1, Organicures will open its eco-friendly doors to the public, offering “soakless” manicures and pedicures, which include cleansing, softening, trimming, exfoliating, masking, massaging, moisturizing, “digit waxing” and polishing. Egyyptian cotton and 100 percent organic towels and will then be used to dry your hands and feet. Talk about pampering!

Convenience is also a priority at Organicures, as they have a no tipping policy, all major credit cards are accepted and you can even make your appointments online.

Don’t forget to schedule your first visit sometime this week, because all appointments made in May for June receive 50 percent off any Mani/Pedi combo! www.organicuresnailspa.com

Sweet tooth? Looks like you’re not the only one, as Sprinkles Cupcakes was welcomed with open arms (and mouths) early this month. The sweet shop opened on Camelback Road, across from Fashion Square–perfect for indulging in a post-shopping snack! Perfect for gifts, party favors, weddings, or just an everyday treat, Sprinkles Cupcakes is a Beverly-Hills based company (if you have every visited the area, you have probably witnessed a line out the door) with more flavors than you could imagine. Cinnamon Sugar, Ginger Lemon, Mocha, Peanut Butter Chocolate, Pumpkin and Vanilla Milk Chocolate are just a few of the twenty-some tasty versions! Be sure to hit up these cupcake connoisseurs before the summer holidays roll around; the 4th of July and Father’s Day gift boxes are sure to go fast! Visit www.sprinklescupcakes.com for more information.

Hybrid cars, bamboo flooring, solar panels; lately, everyone is looking for the best way to make their lives a little greener. Why not apply the same approach to your skin? Spas and shops around the Phoenix and Scottsdale area are chalk-full of earth-friendly goods and services that are sure to detoxify and clean out your skin! Fruits & Passion, an all-organic, natural skin and body boutique in Kierland Commons boasts an assortment of good-for-the-earth lines including fragrances, lip glosses, skin and body care and products for all the men, babies and dogs in your life. All products are perabin-free, organic and best of all, completely colorful and yummy-smelling! us.fruits-passion.com

If it’s a relaxing spa service you’re in the mood for, many spas offer organic facials and body treatments. One such location is Scottsdale’s Mozaic Skin & Body Studio. The selection of all-natural indulgences at Mozaic includes organic eye and lip treatments, facials, cellulite treatments and much more! For information, visit www.mozaikskin.com.

On Saturday, May 3, the Phoenix League of Arizona Opera presented their 9th Annual Opera Ball, La Traviata. The black-tie gala, hosted at the Arizona Biltmore, is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Arizona Opera.

Elegantly fashioned in a Parisian-inspired style complete with luxurious linens and exotic flower displays, the décor wowed guests (all fittingly dressed to the nines, of course). During the four-course meal, the entertainment gave attendees a taste of the upcoming Arizona Opera season, opening in October with Verdi’s “Rigoletto.” This sneak preview featured a cadenced, goose bump-producing solo from “Rigoletto” performed by Lisette Oropesa, which literally sparked a standing ovation.

So, get in line for tickets to the 2008-2009 Arizona Opera season. And of course, don’t miss next year’s Opera Ball—it’s sure to bring down the house. Again.

If you’re a fan of a good facial, massage, mani/pedi, yoga class, or pretty much anything that makes your body feel great, then sign up immediately for some of the Summer Spaaah Series events. Spas all around the Phoenix area will participate in these amazing deals and events throughout the summer. When purchasing a ticket, you will be guaranteed a mini salon or spa treatment, all-day access to other services, refreshments and goodie bags. Some of the spas participating include the Spa Avania at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort at Gainey Ranch, The Spa at the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Dolce Salon & Spa at the Borgata. The kick-off event will take place on May 25, finishing up on August 31, but don’t waste time getting tickets - they are already selling out! www.2008.summerspaaz.com for more information.

Batter-up with Mom this Sunday and head on over to Chase Field to watch the Diamondback’s face the Chicago Cubs on the big screen. Not only will you get to enjoy a great game in a state-of-the-art baseball stadium on what’s sure to be a beautiful Phoenix day, but be sure to bring the whole family because for this special event, a complimentary portrait will be included. Arrive at 10:30 a.m. and a picnic lunch will be provided by City Bakery. Tote along a blanket to sit on and enjoy! www.diamondbacks.mlb.com for more information.