Deer Valley Times, June/July 2021

YOUR HYPERLOCAL NEWS SOURCE

June/July 2021

Vol. 9 • No. 3

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THE FUTURE

IS BRIGHT Sunsolar Solutions continues to grow and make a positive impact on the Valley

PHOTO BY KIMBERLY CARRILLO

In This Issue City News............................................................. 4-7

Kids’ Corner.............................................................11

Getaway................................................................. 19

Business................................................................... 8

Crossword...............................................................15

Must Watch............................................................ 20

Health....................................................................... 9

Business Directory............................................16-17

Bites....................................................................... 21

Education............................................................... 10

Real Estate............................................................. 18

Happenings...................................................... 22-23

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2 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

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DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 3

City News

Construction Set to Begin on a New Fry’s Marketplace and Fuel Center in Norterra NORTERRA AREA RESIDENTS WILL HAVE MORE GROCERY SHOPPING AND FUEL OPTIONS SOON AS CONSTRUCTION IS SET TO BEGIN THIS SUMMER ON A NEW FRY’S MARKETPLACE AND FRY’S FUEL CENTER. The new grocery store and fuel center will be located at the nearly 12-acre site at the southwest corner of Jomax Road and Norterra Parkway. Fry’s spokesperson Pam Giannonatti shares that construction is set to begin in June and that the grocery store and fuel center will be an estimated 109,000 square feet. She could not confirm when the project would be complete.

Per Maricopa County records, the grocery store chain closed the deal on the $3.1 million parcel of land this past spring.

Red Development is developing the site and their spokesperson confirms that it will also include, “four pads with drive-through capability for restaurants and other businesses.”

Spokespeople for both Fry’s and Red Development did not have any more details on the project at this time but promised to share updates with locals as more information becomes available.

Community Centers Re-Open with COVID-19 Safety Measures THE PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL RECENTLY APPROVED A PLAN FOR THE TIERED REOPENING OF COMMUNITY CENTERS, TO RESUME THE PROCESS FOR SPECIAL PARK PERMITS AND SPECIAL ACTIVITY REQUESTS FOR PRIVATE EVENTS OF MORE THAN 50 PEOPLE HELD ON PARK PROPERTY, AND TO RESUME RENTALS OF SELECT POOLS BY HIGH SCHOOL SWIM AND DIVE TEAMS. TIERED REOPENING OF COMMUNITY CENTERS FOR SUMMER YOUTH CAMPS The city’s community and recreation centers have been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020, and the following nearby facilities will reopen effective June 7 for annual summer youth camps and limited indoor recreation classes by registration only. Drop-in use of these facilities will not be available.

• Deer Valley Community Center, 2001 W. Wahalla Lane • Goelet A.C. Beuf Community Center, 3435 W. Pinnacle Peak Road 4 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

Those facilities will be operated with the following COVID-19 protocols and safety amenities in place.

• Open at 50 percent capacity.

• A mask or face covering will be required per the city’s mandate.

• A COVID-19 screening survey will be required upon arrival at a facility.

• Temperature checks will be administered upon arrival at a facility.

• Public facing reception areas will provide contactless customer service (plexiglass barriers have been installed at all service desks).

• Positioning of facility furniture and installation of signage to encourage physical distancing.

• Hand sanitizer stations and touchless light switches have been installed at all facilities.

• Fresh air intake volume has been increased at all facilities.

• Janitorial staff will clean high-touch surfaces and restrooms daily.

In-person summer youth camps for ages 6 to 12 will be offered at those locations starting the week of June 7.

Summer youth camps will be operated at 50 percent capacity and participants will be required to wear a mask or face covering. Additionally, as part of COVID-19 protocol, lunch will be held outdoors. Misting or cooling towers will be used in the outdoor eating areas, and an indoor contingency plan will be used on days when there is inclement weather, or the forecast includes a heat advisory. Camp participants will be provided a pre-packaged lunch or can bring their own lunch daily.

a special activity request to hold a private event in a city park with more than 50 people, such as a birthday party or family gathering. That includes resuming the process to apply for a beer permit, or for use of an inflatable bounce house or amplified sound on park property.

City staff continues to work with public health professionals to monitor the Arizona Department of Health Services Community Transmission indicators.

RENTALS OF CITY POOLS BY HIGH SCHOOL SWIM AND DIVE TEAMS Select city pools will be available for rental use by high school swim and dive teams for the 2021 fall season.

All teams will be required to follow city and Arizona Interscholastic Association COVID-19 safety guidelines.

PERMIT PROCESS FOR PRIVATE EVENTS HELD ON CITY PARK PROPERTY Effective now, the process will resume for community members to apply for

Requests for a special event on park property that is open to the public still must be submitted for review by the City Manager’s Special Event Committee. Examples of these events include festivals, food truck events, craft fairs, etc.

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City News

Deadline Extended for Arizona Travel ID THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY JUST ANNOUNCED THAT IT WAS EXTENDING THE REAL ID FULL ENFORCEMENT DATE FROM OCT. 1, 2021, TO MAY 3, 2023. The Arizona Travel ID is the REAL IDcompliant credential issued by the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division.

The Arizona Travel ID is a driver license or ID card, as well as a federally-compliant credential, that can be used for gaining clearance at federal TSA airport checkpoints and other restricted federally secured facilities.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR ARIZONANS? Beginning May 3, 2023, the federal REAL ID Act will require anyone passing through TSA checkpoints at airports for domestic flights to use a credential, such as the Arizona Travel ID or a passport, that requires more documentation than a standard driver license.

ARE TRAVEL IDS STILL AVAILABLE? Yes. To get your Travel ID, set up an appointment at AZMVDNow.gov. Travel ID applicants must show proof of their identity, proof of Arizona residency and provide their Social Security Number. For a full list of credentials and documents that meet these requirements, visit azdot.gov/TravelID.

HOW IS THE TRAVEL ID DIFFERENT? Arizona is one of 37 states offering residents a choice in their driver license credential: the federally-compliant Travel ID or the non-Travel ID Arizona driver license, which is not federally-compliant and will not allow an

individual to pass through TSA after May 3, 2023. Arizona law requires that MVD provide customers with this choice.

For more information about Travel ID, visit azdot.gov/ TravelID.

City Council Creates New Office of Accountability and Transparency THE PHOENIX CITY COUNCIL RECENTLY APPROVED AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING THE NEW OFFICE OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY (OAT). The OAT will have the ability to conduct independent investigations into the conduct of the city’s police department.

The council first approved the establishment of OAT in February 2020. The recent vote approves the governing language outlining the duties of the office. Council members previously approved funding for the new office.

The role of OAT includes monitoring or investigating members of the Phoenix Police Department. The new office may also provide recommendations for training, policy, and disciplinary actions.

According to the approved language, the role of the OAT is to ensure complaints against officers are handled fairly and objectively, including a thorough and fair investigation.

“The testimonies we heard from families impacted by police violence is exactly myhyperlocalnews.com

why we need this office,” says Vice Mayor Carlos Garcia. “I am grateful for the community members who have long advocated for this change at the city. I am also thankful to the Mayor and Councilwomen Ansari, Guardado and Pastor for voting for this. The work continues and I hope you will continue to engage our office and the city in the implementation of this office.”

The next step in establishing the OAT will be to hire a director. OAT staff cannot have been in law enforcement previously or be the family member of law enforcement. There will be community involvement in the hiring process.

Once hired, the OAT director and staff members will monitor or investigate use of force, in-custody deaths, and other community complaints, and then make recommendations on whether the investigation was sufficient, along with any suggested discipline or needed policy changes.

Regular reports from the office will be available publicly as part of the city’s transparency efforts designed to educate and inform the community.

DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 5

City News

Maricopa County Fire Ban Now In Effect; Campfires Banned at Lake Pleasant Regional Park THE MARICOPA COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT RECENTLY INITIATED ITS ANNUAL FIRE BAN. “This season, the department is aligning its annual fire ban with the burn activity regulations enforced by the county’s Air Quality Department. Under these regulations, the use of outdoor recreational fires is prohibited until September 30 within the boundaries of Area A, which includes all of our regional parks,” says R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department director.

With 86% of the state experiencing extreme drought conditions, the vegetation in the parks is extremely dry and ideal for wildfire ignition.

As temperatures continue to rise, fuel levels such as dried grasses, brush, and fallen leaves will continue to increase.

The implementation of a fire ban is initiated to limit the possibility of starting a brush fire, which could cause serious damage to park resources and park visitor safety.

It is also important to note that during this time of year, the National Weather Service often issues red flag warnings across central Arizona to alert land management agencies that conditions are ideal for wildfire ignition.

Should this occur before the fire ban goes into effect, park supervisors have been authorized to issue temporary fire bans to ensure public safety and protect the park’s resources.

When temporary fire bans are issued, the information will be posted on the website, and park visitors will be notified as they enter the park. The parks will also stop selling firewood during this time.

The fire ban includes the use of campfires, fire pits, and charcoal grills; however, it is still acceptable to use gas/ propane grills in designated areas such as the semideveloped and developed camping sites. Campfires along the shoreline at Lake Pleasant Regional Park are prohibited. Those who violate the fire ban may be fined.

Smoking in the parks is still permissible, however it is discouraged due to the extremely dry conditions. If you must smoke, please be responsible and ensure that all cigarettes are properly extinguished and placed in trash receptacles.

While September 30 has been identified as the fire ban lift date, there is a possibility the fire ban could be extended. Park staff will monitor precipitation levels and vegetation conditions in the parks throughout the summer to determine if an extension is necessary.

Contact the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department at 602-506-2930 or visit maricopacountyparks.net/ for additional information.

Local Golfers Rejoice: PopStroke to Build Two New Valley Locations POPSTROKE ENTERTAINMENT, COOWNED BY TIGER WOODS AND GREG BARTOLI, RECENTLY ANNOUNCED TWO NEW VALLEY PROPERTY AGREEMENTS. Agreements have been signed with seven properties across three states, including the Pavilions at Talking Stick in Scottsdale and Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale.

“These are dynamic, high-growth markets supported by excellent ownership groups,” says Greg Bartoli.

“We are very excited to expand our unique golf entertainment experience across the United States, particularly in markets supported by surging population growth and great climates.”

“Over the next 12 to 18 months, you will see PopStroke locations opening up across the South and Southwest,” Bartoli adds. “The feedback from our guests has been extraordinary, with great reviews about the golf experience, our technology, and our elevated food and drink offerings. We look forward to introducing the PopStroke brand to these exciting new markets.”

6 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

Tiger Woods and TGR Design, his award-winning design team, will build two unique 18-hole putting courses for each property. These are synthetic turfs, incorporating fairways, bunkers, and rough as seen on traditional golf courses.

PopStroke’s customized mobile app allows customers to order drinks and food to be delivered directly to them anywhere on the course, showcase their

scores on a digital scoreboard, and save with the PopBucks loyalty rewards program. To learn more, visit popstroke. com.

“I am very excited about our expansion plans,” says Tiger Woods. “Putting is a universal part of golf that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It has been rewarding to see the broad and diverse group of guests enjoying their experience at PopStroke, and I look forward to seeing players make those long putts in locations throughout the South and Southwest. Each new location will have a different course design and layout giving players unique putting challenges as they travel across the country.”

Founded in 2018, PopStroke is a technology-infused golf-entertainment concept featuring Tiger Woods and his TGR Design team’s 36-hole putting facility, coupled with an outdoor dining area with a full menu, expansive variety of craft beer, wine, signature cocktails, ice cream, outdoor games, and a playground. myhyperlocalnews.com

City News Code:Red Heat Relief Effort In Need of Community Support This Summer PHOENIX RESCUE MISSION IS LAUNCHING ITS 9TH ANNUAL CODE:RED SUMMER HEAT RELIEF CAMPAIGN TO ENSURE THE VALLEY’S HOMELESS POPULATION AND AT-RISK INDIVIDUALS DO NOT FALL VICTIM TO THE HOT SUMMER MONTHS AHEAD. Through August 31, the large-scale heat relief initiative and water drive is raising the level of need for this year’s campaign, due to the continuing risks of COVID-19.

In addition to water and other heat relief items, the Mission is asking the public to help support the campaign with monetary donations and non-perishable food drives. Monetary donations, which will be essential to meet the increased need during the difficult months ahead, will be matched up to $150,000 – made possible by a grant from several friends of the Phoenix Rescue Mission.

continued to climb while the pandemic limits access to many resources and services.”

Several municipalities have joined the effort and will work with the Mission’s Street Outreach staff as they comb Valley streets in a small fleet of Hope Coach vehicles providing water, toiletries, and case management services to those in need. The Mission’s outreach teams will be following the CDC’s COVID-19 safety protocols while providing personalized care that removes the barriers that keep people stuck in a cycle of homelessness.

The Mission also launched a system for individuals and companies to easily set up digital fundraising drives to make socially distanced collections even simpler.

“Anyone can help us save lives this summer, no matter if you’re an individual who wants to make a small donation online, a small business owner who’d like to start a food or water drive, or if you just want to drop off a case of water,” Brissa says. “It’s important to note that we’re not just handing out water and making people feel better. We’re building relationships with those in need and helping to remove the barriers to get them off the streets for good.”

“As we approach the 10th anniversary of Code:Red, the need for public support could never be higher,” Phoenix Rescue Mission CEO Ken Brissa says.

“In addition to battling triple-digit temperatures, the number of homeless men and women in our community has

More information about the Code:Red initiative can be found at phoenixrescuemission.org/codered. For more information on what to donate or to start a Code:Red drive, contact Catie Hammann at gikhelp@phxmission.org or 602-346-3347.

THE INDUSTRY LEADER IN DRIVER EDUCATION IS NOW OPEN IN THE NORTHWEST VALLEY! DrivingMBA has been in Scottsdale for over 15 years. One thing we learned early on is that standard driver training isn’t enough.

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Il Palazzo at Arrowhead Ranch 5940 W. Union Hills Dr. Suite D210 Glendale, AZ 85308 DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 7

Business Greater Phoenix Tops Nation in Small Business Wage Gains; Arizona Comes In Third

By Eric Jay Toll

P

hoenix topped the nation with a 5.67 percent hourly wage hike, based on one-month annualized wage growth data, in small businesses compared to a year ago, according to the monthly Small Business Employment Watch from Paychex IHS Markit.

The average metro area small business is currently paying wages of $28.26 per hour. The U.S. average is $29.09, increasing only 2.84 percent. Arizona ranked third in wage growth, with a 4 percent increase over last year to $27.11.

Missouri’s 4.84 percent growth was tops in the nation, and Georgia was second with 4.4 percent. Wages rose more in the Northeast, up 3.7 percent, followed by 2.94 percent in the West. The South lagged behind the other regions reporting a 2.09 percent wage gain for small business workers.

Arizona and Phoenix, third among

states and cities respectively, both placed third in the nation for small business job growth, according to Paychex. For Arizona, April 2021 saw small business job growth of 4.9 percent over April 2020. Greater Phoenix clocked similar growth with a 4.6 percent increase during that time.

fewer jobs lost than most metro areas. In months with job increases, Phoenix was among the leaders.

The monthly Small Business Employment Watch from Paychex IHS Markit calculates job and wage

gains based on the data generated by businesses using Paychex for payroll and human resource services. Over the past year, Phoenix has shown substantial numbers in both jobs and wage gains, holding a steady ranking among the top tier of metro areas measured by Paychex.

Nationally, job gains in April marked the first month in the last 12 in which all regions of the country showed positive growth rates. The West led the regional list with 4.26 percent in job gains. The Midwest was the lowest with a 3.31 percent job gain. According to Paychex, the national average for job gains is 3.92 percent.

Phoenix’s performance has been relatively strong across the last year.

After April and May 2020, when jobs plummeted because of the pandemic lockdown, Phoenix was among the top five metro areas for job performance.

Over the past year, Greater Phoenix saw

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Health New Legislation Dramatically Expands Telehealth Across Arizona

G

overnor Doug Ducey recently signed legislation to dramatically expand telemedicine in Arizona and provide greater opportunities for accessible medical services.

patients, ensures doctors receive equal compensation from insurance companies for telemedicine services, and allows out-of-state health care professionals to provide telemedicine in Arizona.

“Ensuring Arizonans have access to safe and reliable medical services is a top priority,” says Governor Ducey.

“Telehealth expands access to medical services for low-income families and those living in rural areas, protects vulnerable populations, and allows snowbirds visiting our state to receive telemedicine from their home state. Patients and medical professionals know what’s best for their needs, and we’re working to make sure they have access to those services. I’m grateful to Representative Regina Cobb for sponsoring House Bill 2454, and to the legislators and medical professionals who supported it.”

Under the bill, medical examinations in the worker’s compensation space can also be conducted via telehealth if all parties consent. It also prohibits healthcare boards from enforcing any rule that requires a patient to visit in-person before being prescribed most medications.

House Bill 2454 puts Arizona at the national forefront of telemedicine. It expands access to telemedicine for

“HB 2454 is a win for physicians and patients alike,” says Arizona Medical Association President Dr. Miriam Anand.

“Every patient deserves access to the appropriate care needed to treat their medical conditions. HB 2454 will break down unnecessary barriers to telehealth and help facilitate the delivery of highquality care to patients across Arizona.”

HB 2454 will make telemedicine services provided to Arizonans through the

Governor’s Executive Order last March permanent. This order required health care insurance companies to expand telemedicine coverage for all services that would normally be covered for an inperson visit, and was instituted to ensure that Arizonans who may be sick or under quarantine could access care from their homes and avoid potentially risky trips to a health care provider.

“On behalf of Phoenix Children’s and our patient families, I would like to thank the Governor and Representative Cobb for their leadership on this important piece of legislation to expand telehealth for Arizona’s children,” says Phoenix Children’s Medical Group Physician-inChief and Chief Operating Officer Dr. Jared Muenzer. “Telehealth is a proven tool for connecting children with their clinical teams, improving access to medical and behavioral health care, driving quality outcomes, and giving our Phoenix Children’s patients the hope and healing they need, right in their own homes.”

“Telehealth has proven to be an invaluable aspect of delivering behavioral and integrated health service to individuals and families that would not have received those services otherwise during the pandemic,” says Touchstone Health Services CEO Eddy D. Broadway. “We are so excited and pleased that telehealth is now a permanent aspect of the service delivery system and will definitely benefit members that we serve — a real game changer.”

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DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 9

Education

The Traditional Academy at Bellair Accelerates Learning, Even During Challenging Pandemic Year

W

hile many schools across the state and country remain concerned about kids falling behind during the pandemic, one Deer Valley school is doing so well that its students have moved up to the next grade level.

This traditional school located near the Glendale/Phoenix border at 51st Avenue and Union Hills has a unique curriculum that allows teachers to accelerate instruction. Students, who were ready, started one year ahead of their current grade level in January.

“Even with all of the challenges of opening a new school during a pandemic, The Traditional Academy of Bellair students are thriving,” says Principal Vivian Hunt.

Kindergarten, first, second, and third grade teachers were able to accelerate the entire class to the next grade level curriculum in math by fourth quarter.

Many of the fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students have accelerated beyond their grade level as well.

“The growth has been phenomenal, and our students are so proud of themselves,” says Hunt.

First grade teacher Jane Oura credits students and their families with the high academic achievement this year.

“My students are motivated and active participants in their learning and have the full and active support of their families,” says Oura.

DVUSD Provides Curbside Meals Through June

T

his summer, Deer Valley Unified School District (DVUSD) will provide free curbside meals to local children through July 1.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PROGRAM INCLUDE: • Meal pick up is Tuesday and Thursday only. On Tuesdays, children can pick up breakfast and lunch for two days. On Thursday, children can pick up breakfast and lunch for three days.

• Children do not need to be present when picking up the meals.

• DVUSD staff ask that families stay in their car and meals will be placed in vehicle trunk, cargo space or empty passenger seat.

• Curbside meals may require additional heating.

10 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

• The district may change and/or add locations or hours depending on demand.

DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS INCLUDE: • Arrowhead Elementary, 7490 W. Union Hills, 9-11:30 a.m.

• Barry Goldwater High School, 2820 W. Rose Garden Lane, 9-11:30 a.m.

• Constitution Elementary, 18440 N. 15th Avenue, 9-11:30 a.m.

MEALS WILL ALSO BE DISTRIBUTED AT TWO DVUSD BUS STOPS: • 24th Avenue and Lone Cactus, 9-9:30 a.m.

• 27th Avenue and Adobe Drive, 9:4510:15 a.m.

Monitor dvusd.org/food for hour or location changes.

Parents agree that students at this school are eager to learn and get ahead. One mom says her children definitely needed the challenge and acceleration that The Traditional Academy at Bellair offers.

Speaking about future opportunities, Principal Hunt says that students who are excelling by learning above their grade level will have many doors open for them.

“My children come home happy to report when they have excelled in a certain area, improved and grown in another, challenged some of their peers in friendly competitions, and have been recognized for their accomplishments. They have a new level of pride in their school work,” says parent Troi Armendariz.

“Down the road, this will give them a head start to the high schools and colleges of their choice. Their hard work now will pay off in dividends as they move through life with confidence and a mindset of success,” says Hunt.

In addition to strong parent involvement, the daily classroom routine at The Traditional Academy of Bellair includes small group and individualized instruction in targeted skill areas that need more support.

“The best part of teaching here is the warm, inviting, and supportive environment. Plus, a rigorous curriculum helps develop critical thinking skills necessary for success now and in the future,” says Oura.

“We feel so fortunate that our children were able to be part of The Traditional Academy this past year,” says Armendariz.

Despite a year full of surprises, this new school has been able to create a culture where students are motivated to learn.

“The biggest surprise has really been watching how quickly new students have been able to acclimate to the new curriculum and grow by leaps and bounds in their new environment,” says Hunt.

Get Ready for Kindergarten and Beyond

by Joining the DVUSD Big Kid Book Club

I

f you’re a parent or caregiver for a child between the ages of 3 and 5, the Deer Valley Unified School District (DVUSD) invites your child to join the Big Kid Book Club.

“Let us help your child cultivate a love for reading and get ready for kindergarten,” according to DVUSD. HOW DOES IT WORK? DVUSD will periodically send your child a free book in the mail along with helpful advice for parents of 3-5 year olds. You do not need to live within the Deer Valley Unified School District to participate. All children between the ages of 3 and 5, who are not yet attending kindergarten, are eligible to join the Big Kid Book Club.

To enroll, visit dvusd.org/bookclub.

MORE READING RESOURCES

One local resource for busy families is the Read On Arizona website at readonarizona.org. On the website, you can use the “Find a Book” tool to find books that meet your child’s interest and reading level; use a reading log to track time spent reading; and find other helpful educational resources.

Another resource for families includes Read Across America’s Kids Summer Reading List website at readacrossamerica.org/kids-summerreading-list. Here, families can find an array of reading resources, book recommendations, and parenting tips. Some ideas include joining the Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge, where you receive digital rewards, or the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program, where young readers can earn a free book. myhyperlocalnews.com

Kids’ Corner

Indoor Museums for Cool Summer Fun

Five hot spots for educational activities for the whole family

By Jill Frier Photos Courtesy of Featured Museums

W

ith the summer heat in full effect , it’s a great time to find fun and educational activities for kids to do indoors during summer break. Here are some excellent museums in the Valley that are cool, fun, and educational for kids and their grownups.

the globe. The museum also provides visitors a hands-on experience of playing different instruments, a number of children’s programs, concerts, and other musical adventures for visitors of all ages.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PHOENIX childrensmuseumofphoenix.org

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM mim.org

The largest bass in the world, the Octobass, has a home in north Phoenix. Visitors can find the Octobass, and many more instrumental oddities, in the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM). The MIM is an unexpected and breathtaking surprise for first time visitors. This two-story, state-of-the-art facility is a showcase of instruments and music from every genre and almost every country in the world. The MIM displays more than 6,500 instruments, so visitors can see and hear music and instruments from around

ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER azscience.org The Arizona Science Center is, in a word, amazing! The fun, larger than life, interactive displays throughout the building provide hours of entertainment for kids and adults, with hands-on science experiments ranging from biology to physics and astronomy to engineering. This venue is a fantastic way to get kids excited about science in their everyday lives and a fun way to spend time with your family in downtown Phoenix.

ODYSEA AQUARIUM odyseaaquarium.com

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix, which officially re-opened for indoor play on May 29, provides a fantastic world of creative fun, playtime, and imagination for kids everywhere.

Recognized as one of the top three children’s museums in the nation, the Children’s Museum is a perfect place to learn, create and play for kids from birth to about 10 years old. Kids can climb, run, touch, feel and pretend throughout the building, located in the remodeled and historic Monroe School Building in downtown Phoenix. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix also offers a variety of children’s educational programs, ranging from math and science to music and art.

The state-of-the-art OdySea Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the southwest.

OdySea Aquarium “offers an entertaining, interactive, and educational experience for guests of all ages by combining theme-park-style amusement with highly engaging presentations of aquatic life,” according to the aquarium. Six thousand animals call OdySea Aquarium home, including 300 species, and over 70 exhibits in 200,000 square feet of indoor space.

HEARD MUSEUM heard.org

The Heard Museum in downtown Phoenix is a fascinating, world-class exhibition of Native American art and culture.

Recognized internationally for the quality and size of its collections, exhibits, and programs, all Phoenicians should at some point take time to visit this historic and cultural Southwestern icon. The Heard has a variety of educational exhibits specifically designed give children a hands-on understanding of various Native American tribes and cultures. Fun activities for kids include crafts, artwork, and interactive stations for learning. Also be sure to check out the latest events and happenings at the Heard Museum, including art exhibitions and discussions, discounted and free entry days, and one-of-a-kind Pow-Wows and festivals throughout the year.

These are just a few of the awesome museums available in the Valley. See ladybugsblog.com for more fun, adventurous, and educational activities for you and your kids all year round!

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BOOK ONLINE NOW! DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 11

Cover Story

THE FUTURE IS

Bright

Sunsolar Solutions continues to grow and make a positive impact on the Valley

By Michelle Talsma Everson

D

uring the COVID-19 pandemic, when many locally-owned companies had to downsize, Sunsolar Solutions was growing. In fact, the North Valley business, which first opened in 2015, has grown from 28 employees to over 100 in the last six months.

“We are proud to have brought 100 new green jobs to the Valley,” says Val Berechet, president of Sunsolar Solutions. “We are right here, in your backyard. We are a homegrown company that has been doing business in the Valley—and growing—for six years.”

In addition to Berechet, Sunsolar Solutions is also led by Michael O’Donnell and Troy Dinbokowitz, vice presidents of sales and co-owners.

Solar energy works by capturing the sun’s energy and turning it into electricity through solar panels— and with an average of 300 days of sunshine a year— the Valley of the Sun is the perfect place for those considering supplementing some of their energy usage with solar power. O’Donnell shares that the company has helped over 7,000 Arizona households

12 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

go solar—taking the power of the sun and turning it into usable electricity to power their homes.

“Out of those 7,000 customers, over one third of that business was from referrals,” O’Donnell shares.

“We’ve had the largest amount of solar panel sales in Arizona for years.”

“Our innovative solar solutions and technology works to power your entire home with clean, renewable energy – all from just the sun,” according to the company. “With each solar panel, you’ll be combatting greenhouse gas emissions and reducing your fossil fuel dependency while saving up to 95 percent on your electricity bill… By investing in a solar system today, you’ll be cultivating a brighter tomorrow.”

SOME BENEFITS OF GOING SOLAR WITH SUNSOLAR SOLUTIONS INCLUDE: • Flexible financial solutions – locals can lease, finance or purchase solar panels.

• No upfront costs.

• Customers can save up to 95% off of their electric bill.

• Protection against inflation and energy cost increases from the electric company.

• Increasing the property value.

• Earning a great return on your investment.

• Going green.

• Providing clean, reliable energy.

By helping thousands of local households switch to solar energy, Berechet shares how Sunsolar Solutions is making an impressive green impact on the environment, including: • Reducing 6.8 million tons of CO2 emissions; • This reduction is the equivalent of 16.2 million trees planted; • And saving 170.4 million gallons of water!

“Doing business right and providing quality customer experience—plus referrals and good online reviews— has paid dividends in how much we’ve grown,” Berechet explains. “It’s led to more customers and, thanks to their business, more employees.”

Because of their impressive growth, Sunsolar Solutions is home to a new 19,000 square foot installation center and a 3,000 square foot administration space.

So what makes Sunsolar Solutions stand out among other solar companies that locals could work with?

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PHOTO COURTESY SUNSOLAR SOLUTIONS

O’Donnell shares that it has to do with how their company provides quality service and honest pricing and results for customers.

“Eighty percent of solar companies don’t actually install the solar panels that they sell you,” he explains.

PHOTO BY KIMBERLY CARRILLO

“We do it all—sales and installation. We also always provide the total cost to customers so they know what to expect. And, if we can, we provide multiple design options for them to choose from, so they can pick which one works best for their budget. Of course, our goal is always to get their electric bill down to zero.”

Berechet adds that Sunsolar Solutions’ ultimate goal, even if they don’t make a sale, is to educate customers and those interested in solar. They always provide their sales reps with ongoing education and the tools they need to make an honest sale and provide all of the facts when meeting potential solar panel owners.

“Compared to other companies, I was impressed by Sunsolar’s sales and design process as they already had an initial design ready when I met with the consultant, and they adjusted on the fly with design and pricing while he was answering my questions,” says Frank, a recent Sunsolar customer.

PHOTO COURTESY SUNSOLAR SOLUTIONS

“I was impressed with how fast everything went.

From the call updates to the installation, it has all went pretty quick,” says Keila, a customer who just had solar panels installed. “I was advised we should be up and running by mid-May and I have had the system working since the beginning of May. I am happy to see the progress and, most of all, our bills.”

GO SOLAR URGENT!

GO SOLAR BEFORE YOU ARE LOCKED OUT! Sunsolar Solutions, Inc. ROC 331679

myhyperlocalnews.com

For those who are interested in investing in solar power, Sunsolar Solutions’ team shares that now is the time.

“I recommend that locals take action this summer and look into solar now,” O’Donnell says. “On October 1, APS is increasing the cost for new solar customers by reducing the amount they pay homeowners for energy they send back to the grid, but those who have solar before then are grandfathered in.”

Both O’Donnell and Berechet point out that there are a lot of tax perks currently available for making the switch to solar as well. “With the Green New Deal, the new administration is serious about climate change,” O’Donnell shares. “Now is the time to go solar and benefit from the tax perks and other benefits of using solar energy.”

The team at Sunsolar Solutions is excited for their continued growth and grateful for how far they’ve come.

“We’re doing well because we’re doing good for the community and the environment,” Berechet says.

“We are excited for today and what the future holds.”

To learn more and inquire about a free consultation, visit sunsolarsolutions.com or call 623-562-9009.

623-562-9009

9059 W Lake Pleasant Pkwy H800, Peoria AZ 85382 www.SunsolarSolutions.com Don’t Miss Out! Go Solar Today!

• • • •

$0 Down, No upfront cost Save up to 90% off your electric bill Protect against inflation & energy costs increases from your Utility Company Provide clean, reliable energy for your family powered by the sun

DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 13

Solution on page 21.

Happy Father’s Day! Sunday, June 20

14 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

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STATEPOINT CROSSWORD - THEME: SCREEN-FREE PLAYTIME ACROSS 1. Ivory, in the bathroom 5. Letter of the ____ 8. Kiln for drying hops 12. Marine eagle 13. Muffin Man’s Drury 14. Zest 15. Landlord’s collection 16. Chieftain in Arabia 17. Frequently precedes “nonsense” 18. *Tabletop fun (2 words) 20. Passage in a coal mine 21. Clear the whiteboard 22. Sean’s mom Yoko 23. Alpine structure 26. Slabbered 30. Clothing border 31. Incense burning container 34. Gauche or Droite, in Paris 35. In a frenzy 37. Unagi 38. Fancy necktie 39. Eye protection, sing.

40. Not dangerous to health 42. Dwight the President 43. Worked the dough 45. *Screen-free message 47. Hairpiece, slangily 48. Libra symbol 50. Buenos ____ 52. *Dirty hobby?

56. African prairie 57. Like family lore 58. Don’t let it hit you on your way out 59. *Ten-pin establishment 60. Challenge 61. Purse to match a gown 62. Lake of Scottish lore 63. *Between ‘game’ and ‘match’ 64. Deliver a tirade

DOWN 1. Belgrade native 2. Dessert sandwich 3. Pavlova, e.g.

4. Tube-nosed seabird 5. Tibetan priests 6. Japanese cartoon 7. Used to be 8. *Explore the great ____ 9. ____ spumante 10. Editor’s mark 11. Craggy peak 13. Official emissary 14. Bird-deposited fertilizer 19. Same as schlock 22. Famous Bobby, on ice 23. *Sidewalk art medium 24. Macho man 25. *Tell jokes, e.g.

26. Sub station 27. Permissible 28. Extract a memory, e.g.

29. Try to prevent 32. It’s not a want 33. ____ Bernie Sanders, abbr.

36. *Guessing game 38. Administer an oil 40. “Don’t make me ___!”

41. With pleasure 44. Full of bunnies?

46. Full of gentleness 48. Ranee’s wrap 49. *Macrame or wood carving, e.g.

50. Expunge 51. Bodily disorders 52. Hermes and Apollo 53. ‘I’ in Greek alphabet 54. Person, place or thing 55. John Wayne’s “True ____” 56. Delivery vehicle

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DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 15

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Real Estate

Meet Your New Home Buyer: The Millennial

By Shelley Sakala

I

f you’re Gen-X or a Baby Boomer, chances are you have children or grandchildren who are millennials. You watched as they experienced life in ways that seemed strange. Youth sports led to participation trophies and 8th place ribbons. They couldn’t name the teams in the NFC West, but knew every wizard at Hogwarts. They thought nothing of camping outside the Apple Store a week before the next iPhone release, and were computer savvy before they could ride a bike.

Here’s where it gets interesting: Millennials are now the largest home buying group in the United States. If you’re selling your home, you had better know what makes a millennial tick.

DEVICES While seemingly everyone has a smartphone, millennials are more likely to use them as their primary source of content. If your Realtor doesn’t provide an easy way to view your home on a mobile phone, you risk missing out on an entire segment of potential buyers.

SOCIAL MEDIA Millennials follow brands on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. A savvy Realtor has an established social media brand across several platforms, with a lot of followers. More followers equals more potential buyers. While nobody is clamoring for iffy dance videos from their Realtor, there are ways to use these platforms to reach potential home buyers.

Fish where the fish are.

INSTANT ACCESS Sitting down at the end of the day to check and reply to e-mails is a thing of the past. Communication is now an instantaneous process through texts or messenger apps. If your Realtor isn’t offering this level of accessibility to the clients, then your Realtor is not fully committed to serving the millennial customer.

HOME LOANS With the combination of rising home prices and the pervasive financial obligations of student loans, the majority of millennials plan to put less than 20% down on their next home purchase. A Realtor who works closely with a trusted mortgage broker can be a resource, helping guide millennial home buyers into the best home loan scenario.

KNOWING THE BUYER After more than a year of working from home and sheltering-in-place, millennials are ditching their tiny apartments and looking for homes of their own. A welldesigned home office looks awfully appealing to someone who spent all of last year working from the kitchen table.

An experienced Realtor understands this, and knows how to spotlight thoughtful work spaces and dedicated home offices as selling points.

Nearly half of all home buyers are millennials. Are you and your Realtor ready to reach them?

Shelley Sakala is a local Realtor with The Sakala Group.

Tamra & Doug Wyman

623.551.6688 • www.wyman-services.com

18 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

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Getaway

SUMMER OF

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An Iconic Hideaway in Old Town Scottsdale WORLD-CLASS DINING, WELLNESS AND RESTORATION MEET AT SANCTUARY ON CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN RESORT & SPA

W

hen the kids are away the grown-ups can play (thank you, sleepaway camp). For those looking for a bit of summer magic of their own, there is an otherworldly quality about Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa.

SPLASH-FREE ZONE: Sanctuary’s weekend rules come to the rescue of a much-needed mini-break, reserving the resort’s iconic infinity-edge pool for those ages 16 and over. Relax on a lounger or reserve a poolside cabana, which comes loaded with creature comforts like a fan, TV, mini fridge, and snacks.

ADULT MIXERS: Summer will be the season to wine, dine and shine, and Sanctuary has a series of dinner events running through August. Featuring the genius of Executive Chef Beau MacMillan’s team, including Chef de Cuisine Samantha Sanz and Bar Chef Christiaan Röllich, Master of Taste events will connect guests with leading Napa Valley winemakers from the likes of Far Niente and Plumpjack Winery.

And a Late Lunch and Learn series will include live music and chef demonstrations around themes like “Fire in the French Quarter” and “Whiskey Made Me Do It.”

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE (THEIR) HOME: In addition to Sanctuary’s prized casitas and suites, eight private villas – each one an architectural and design triumph, ranging up to 5,500 square feet – can be booked at Sanctuary for a brief retreat with friends or a longer work-from-anywhere summer escape. Amenities like private movement studio and spa therapy spaces, tennis court, home theaters, game room and pool make it easy to nest in The Villas as Sanctuary.

SEEING STARS: Things should be looking up this summer, in part thanks to two celestial events worth planning around. On July 12 Venus and Mars will appear to touch in the sky after sunset, complemented by a crescent moon. And the Perseid meteor shower on August 12-13 coincides with an especially dark sky.

Pair these events with a warm soak under a star shower in one of Sanctuary’s Spa Suites, which feature al fresco oversized soaking tubs and canopied daybeds.

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WELLNESS SANCTUARY: Get a summer glow with the Signature Coconut Sumatra Body Ritual at Sanctuary Spa, where silky smooth pure organic coconut oil is combined with the stimulating and cleansing properties of sea salt for a full body exfoliation that invigorates the senses and creates a healthy, youthful glow. An application of decadent coconut-vanilla lotion seals the skin thereafter. Spa buffs will also appreciate the resort’s Reiki experience—a perfect antidote to the last year— which promotes healing with an ancient Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation.

PACKAGED PERKS: Locals can save a pretty penny thanks to Sanctuary’s Arizona Residents offer, with 20 percent off the resort’s best available rate. Another rich offer is the Sanctuary Escape package, including daily breakfast and a $240 spa credit per adult, per night.

Sanctuary Resort and Spa is located at 5700 East McDonald Drive in Paradise Valley.

A full suite of travel deals can be explored by visiting sanctuaryaz.com.

DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 19

Entertainment

Must-Watch Streaming Movies & Shows DISNEY+

threat that may just destroy the world.

Do they have a chance? Only if they can learn to get along and work as a team. On Disney+ June 25.

IN THEATERS

NETFLIX Awake For most, if not all of us, a global event causing all technology to be rendered unusable is all the nightmare we could handle. Now imagine that event also causes you, and everyone else in the world, to be unable to sleep. That’s the situation that our unlikely heroes, a mother and her children, are dropped into. Soon, our insomniac mother discovers that her daughter could hold the key to allowing the world to sleep once again. On Netflix June 9.

Loki The Loki from 2012 has escaped from the Avengers after the events of Endgame. But now he faces a new problem: he is not in the proper time and that has the potential for disaster within the multiverse. A mysterious and otherworldly organization called the TVA recruits him to properly put things back together. Of course, you can never fully trust the motives of the trickster god. On Disney+ June 9.

The Mysterious Benedict Society The main characters are four orphans, all with nothing in common, except that each has a been gifted with a superpower-esque skill that is unlike anything seen before. Add one rich man, who owns a boarding school, and wants to bring them all together for unknown reasons. Soon, they discover that his motives are pure and he wants to use their powers to stop a 20 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

America: The Motion Picture You know the story of the Revolutionary War: George Washington chain sawed his way through the British army with his inebriated friend Sam Adams. Or something akin to that. Now the story comes to life in animation form from the guys behind The Lego Movie, with an all-star cast including Channing Tatum as George Washington. You’ve never seen anything like this and, to be honest, we may regret seeing it this time. Only time will tell. On Netflix June 30.

F9: The Fast Saga Are you ready? The family we’ve followed for 20 years are back and are about to face their most personal challenge yet. Dom’s brother joins forces with their enemy, Cipher, and together pose a challenge to the entire world. Some old friends are back to fight alongside Dom and the family.

With the stakes never higher for both the family and a film franchise, we see a return of veteran director Justin Lin. Can he keep this two decade franchise on the road of success? In theaters June 25.

Zola Have you ever seen a movie inspired by a Twitter thread? Based on the wild thread by Aziah “Zola” Wells, what starts as a road trip through Florida to make as much money as possible dancing from strip club to strip club soon turns into an odyssey of betrayal and death. Critically acclaimed, with a breakout performance from Taylour Paige, this is one film not to miss. In theaters June 30.

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GEORGE’S FAMOUS GYROS & PASTA

THE OTHER Q BAR & GRILL

ADDRESS: 20818 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix PHONE: 623-580-0588 CUISINE TYPE: American We have been a family-owned business in Phoenix for over 30 years and are proud to serve the best and freshest fish fry. We also feature fresh scallops, walleye, catfish, huge burgers, and wings with many sauces to choose from.

www.QBarAndGrill.org

DA VALLEY GRILL

ADDRESS: 2040 W. Deer Valley Rd., Ste. A, Phoenix PHONE: 623-587-4706 CUISINE TYPE: Asian Fusion We strive to spread the aloha spirit by sharing with our customers the experience, pleasures, and rich ethnic flavors of Hawaiian Asian food.

We serve sushi, ramen, poke bowls and more delicious entrees. Open Mon.-Fri. from 10 a.m.8 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Delivery available through Uber Eats, Grubhub, Doordash and Postmates.

www.DaValleyGrillAZ.com

CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 15

SUDOKU ANSWER from page 14

ADDRESS: 23425 N. 39th Dr., Glendale PHONE: 623-516-7770 CUISINE TYPE: Pizza For over 15 years, JoJo’s Pizza and Family Restaurant has been committed to making delicious Italian food. Our pizza starts with homemade pizza dough, made fresh daily. We then add our homemade pizza sauce, highquality mozzarella cheese, and your choice of over 20 fresh cut toppings, resulting in a tasty New York style pizza.

www.JoJos-Pizza.com PITA JUNGLE

ADDRESS: 2530 W. Happy Valley Rd., Phoenix PHONE: 623-587-5572 CUISINE TYPE: Mediterranean Stop by Pita Jungle in The Shops at Norterra for healthy Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Greek and Lebanese cuisine. We offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Join us for Happy Hour 3-6 p.m. daily. You can now order online at www.pitajungle.com/online-ordering.

www.PitaJungle.com

Your Guide to Local Dining

www.GeorgesPhx.com

JOJO’S PIZZA & FAMILY RESTAURANT

Bites

ADDRESS: 20206 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix PHONE: 623-581-3772 CUISINE TYPE: Mediterranean Phoenix New Times’ ‘Best of’ winner. The best place to get gyros, pasta, and burgers in Phoenix. No, make that Arizona! Real Greeks bringing the taste of Chicago to Arizona. Now open for take out and delivery but, most importantly, dine-in is back. We are doing what we can to keep everyone safe and healthy. See you soon!

YOLK CAFE

ADDRESS: 20811 N. Cave Creek Rd., Suite 101, Phoenix PHONE: 602-610-9655 CUISINE TYPE: Breakfast, Lunch and Bar We’re proud to present Yolk Cafe, now open in Phoenix! We serve breakfast, lunch, coffee, and a spirits bar. Bring your furry friends- we have a dog friendly patio!

• Open everyday 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

• Online ordering and carry out with curbside pick up • Yelp wait list available for an easy weekend brunch schedule.

www.YolkCafe.com IHOP

ADDRESS: 2103 W. Happy Valley Rd., Phoenix PHONE: 623-587-4491 CUISINE TYPE: American IHOPPY Hour*: The Longest, Happiest Hour is here! Every day from 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. choose from a wide variety of popular menu items including entrees for $5 and Snacks & Sides for $3.

Kids Eat Free!*: Every day from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. kids 12 and under can enjoy one free meal with the purchase of each adult entrée. *Dine-in only. These two locations only.

www.IHOP.com myhyperlocalnews.com

DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 21

Happenings

BUBBLE BASH SUMMER SERIES

When: Every Wednesday in June, 6-7:30 p.m.

Where: The Splash Pad at Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard What: Your favorite signature event is back this June! Soak up the sun and suds with interactive bubble stations, foam zone fun and live entertainment. Enjoy Bubble Discovery Stations by BubbleManiacs, run through the Splash Pad Foam Zone, and enjoy music by FUNERGY. Visit shopdesertridge.com for more info.

THEATERWORKS OPENS A BRAND NEW IMMERSIVE THEATER EXPERIENCE: CURIOUSER & CURIOUSER TOO

When: June 3 – July 25 Where: Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Drive, Peoria What: A madness has been cast over Wonderland, and the Queen of Hearts is the maddest of all. She is planning to unleash the fearsome Jabberwocky! The fate of Wonderland rests with you. Find the Suited Stones before Wonderland reaches its

end or we all lose our heads. Travel through 6,500 square feet from room to room, gathering clues to defeat the Queen. Something is following you, trying to get in.

You must decide – are they insane or are they deceiving you – in the dark world of Alice in Wonderland. Multiple performances take place Thursday through Sunday. Advance ticket purchases are required. Recommended for ages 16 and older. Information and tickets at curiousertheater.org or 623815-7930.

FLASHLIGHT NIGHTS AT THE GARDEN

When: June 5 – September 4, 6 – 9 p.m.

Where: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix What: Flashlight Nights are nighttime self-guided adventures through Desert Botanical Garden. Nocturnal explorers can bring their own flashlights to shine along the trails to capture the night-blooming plants and animals that appear in the desert after dark. Each evening of Flashlight Nights includes socially-distanced activities for all ages.

Please bring your own flashlight from home. Visit dbg.org for more information.

SWEET SUMMERTIME! COME CHECK OUT THE BEAUTIFUL FLOWER AT HWC! MEDICAL SALES ONLY Daily: 8 am - 12 pm

ADULT USE & MEDICAL SALES Daily: HIGH NOON - 10 pm

SENIORS, VETS, & STUDENTS ENJOY

20% OFF Some restrictions apply.

1720 E Deer Valley Dr • Phoenix, AZ 85024 www.HerbalWellnessCenter.com

22 • June/July 2021 • DEER VALLEY TIMES

myhyperlocalnews.com

CRUISE THE ZOO

When: June 7-August 10, occurs Monday-Wednesdays, 7-11 a.m.

Where: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix What: The Phoenix Zoo is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to drive your car through the Phoenix Zoo. Cruise the Zoo allows guests to view a variety of its inhabitants – including flamingos, giraffes, elephants and more – while maintaining safe social distancing measures. This event also includes a guided, educational audio tour, and food and beverage options are available for purchase onsite. Purchase tickets beforehand online at phoenixzoo.org/cruisethezoo.

FIRST 30 DAYS

FREE

KONA WAVE RIDER ROCK FEST

When: June 11-13, times vary Where: Dillon’s Bayou at Pleasant Harbor, 40202 N. 87th Avenue, Peoria What: A weekend long rock festival that features a variety of rock and tribute bands.

Concert times vary. Bands include: Public Enemy #1, Shine on Floyd, I Don’t Know (an Ozzy Osbourne tribute band), and more. Find the event on Facebook for more information.

$

0 ENROLLMENT

+ 1 MONTH FREE CHILDCARE

ENCORE DRIVE-IN NIGHTS: FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE

When: June 12, 8 p.m.

Where: West Wind Glendale Drive In, 5650 N. 55th Ave., Glendale What: For the first time ever, you can watch Florida Georgia Line in an epic concert film on the big screen at your local drive-in. Drive-in tickets are priced by vehicle, one ticket is good for up to six people. For less than $20 each, you can drive-in and rock out in the comfort of your own space. It’s an affordable and fun way to enjoy this never-before-seen concert event in your local hometown cinema. Tickets available at westwinddi.com.

Expires 6/30/21. Childcare Offer can be subsituted with 1 Free Stretch-Fit Session.

PEORIA’S ALL-AMERICAN FESTIVAL

When: July 4, 5 p.m.

Where: Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Avenue What: After a successful virtual All-American Festival at Home last year during the COVID-19 pandemic, this year the city of Peoria is moving forward with an outdoor festival at the Peoria Sports Complex, located at 16101 N. 83rd Avenue.

To ensure all festival attendees enjoy a safe and healthy event, this year’s All-American Festival will be a free, ticketed event with the most current COVID-19 mitigation protocols in place at the time, which may include social distancing, mask wearing and hand washing recommendations, among others. There will also be several food trucks, waterslides and three bands performing, most notably, Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers, and a spectacular fireworks finale show. For more information about this year’s All-American Festival, visit peoriaaz.gov/events.

SUBARU PRESENTS SCOTTSDALE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT WESTWORLD

When: July 4, 5-10 p.m.

Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road What: Subaru Presents Scottsdale 4th of July Celebration at WestWorld returns for an 8th spectacular year, Sun., July 4, from 5-10 p.m., delivering fresh, family entertainment with the largest fireworks show in Scottsdale’s history—in fact, twice the size of last year’s exciting display! The patriotic celebration of family fun, including live entertainment, happens in the cool, air-conditioned comfort of the North Hall at WestWorld, giving rise to the slogan “Be Red, White and Cool.” To purchase tickets, and for more information, visit Scottsdale4th.com. myhyperlocalnews.com

80+ GROUP FITNESS CLASSES PER WEEK

STATE OF THE ART EQUIPMENT

INTERACTIVE CHILDCARE YOUR KIDS WILL LOVE

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE, LOVE YOUR RESULTS Complimentary Towel Service

Variety of Strength Equipment

Full Service Locker Rooms

Rogue Functional Training Equipment

Complimentary Fitness Consultation

Cycle Studio

Cardio Equipment with Entertainment Systems

Group X Studio

Outdoor Functional Training Area

Yoga Studio

M-Café

10,000 lbs of Free Weights

Peak Performance Zone

Free Wifi

Indoor Basketball Court Sauna & Steam Rooms Virtual Fitness

19 VALLEY LOCATIONS

YOUR NEAREST CLUBS ARE CAREFREE

HAPPY VALLEY

2655 W CAREFREE HIGHWAY

2501 W HAPPY VALLEY RD, STE 30

DEER VALLEY TIMES • June/July 2021 • 23

We Are Your 85085/85027

Real Estate Specialists

“

I cannot tell you how crazy it has been trying to buy a house in this market. But thanks to Shelley Sakala and Nick

Simonich with the Sakala Group, and Josh Heape with Canopy Mortgage, they made this process easy and painless in

Your North Phoenix Real Estate Specialists

this crazy market. Nick working his magic to submit that winning offer, Josh securing great financing for us below 3% and making sure we are 100% satisfied, and Shelley for selling our place for an amount that exceeded our expectations.

During this whole process, Nick, Shelley, and Josh made us feel like VIPs. If you are thinking about buying and/or

”

selling, or need on-point financing without all the nonsense; Josh, Shelley, and Nick should be your first and only call.

ADDRESS

STATUS

LIST PRICE

BED/ BATH

SF

PRICE/SF

PRIVATE POOL

85085

602-421-2324

Shelley @TheSakalaGroup.com TheSakalaGroup.com 20033 N. 19th Avenue  Suite 121 Phoenix, AZ 85027

sell more homes than

2351 W JAKE HVN

CLOSED

$395,000

3 / 2.5

1,882

$210

NO

28607 N NOBEL RD

CLOSED

$410,000

3/2

1,667

$246

NO

1759 W DESPERADO WAY

CLOSED

$525,000

3 / 2.5

2,414

$217

NO

2129 W EAGLE FEATHER RD

CLOSED

$571,000

4 / 2.5

3,774

$151

NO

31620 N 19TH AVE

CLOSED

$630,000

4 / 3.5

3,402

$185

NO

27115 N GIDIYUP TRL

CLOSED

$636,500

5/3

3,904

$163

NO

33907 N 23RD DR

CLOSED

$700,000

5 / 3.5

4,464

$157

YES

1021 W BRILES RD

CLOSED

$800,000

4/3.5

3,706

$216

NO

85027

We live here and

other agents in this area.

Call us today to get your home sold!

The Sakala Group Real Estate Team

homesbythesakalagroup

2929 W YORKSHIRE DR 1113

CLOSED

$162,000

1/1

658

$246

NO

502 W TONOPAH DR 6

CLOSED

$190,000

2/2

863

$220

NO

20050 N 14TH AVE

CLOSED

$280,000

3/2

1,308

$214

NO

3419 W LOS GATOS DR

CLOSED

$315,000

3/2

1,586

$199

NO

19210 N 15TH AVE

CLOSED

$340,000

3/2

1,483

$229

NO

20813 N 17TH AVE

CLOSED

$400,000

3/2

1,540

$260

YES

2928 W KERRY LN

CLOSED

$529,000

4/2

2,301

$230

NO

3202 W WALTER WAY

CLOSED

$565,000

4 / 2.5

2,971

$190

YES

See Shelley’s North Valley Housing Article on page 18