https://www.phoenixmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/e062232c-161a-4be5-bf24-57c34a252a86-1280x720.jpg

In February, the Valley welcomed a slew of intriguing expansions (from out of town and from closer to home) and bid farewell to a few exciting new spots and old favorites.   Backyard Taco Family-run taco shop with six locations in the East Valley has opened an outpost in Laveen. 7730 S. 59th Ave., Laveen, backyardtaco.com   Bagelfeld’s This wildly popular bagel bakery has set up a second location in Tempe. Be sure to order...

https://www.phoenixmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/manch-1-1280x720.jpg

I have had the privilege of caring for many hundreds of patients who have had their lives changed with a liver transplant, and the people I have met and cared for over the years who reside in some of the medically underserved rural communities in our very large state create lasting memories for me. I do keep in touch with many and still see patients whom I have known for decades.