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Sweetgreen Makes Its Arizona Debut with Two New Locations
Image courtesy of Sweetgreen
SWEETGREEN, THE MISSION-DRIVEN RESTAURANT BRAND SERVING HEALTHY FOOD AT SCALE, IS MAKING ITS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED DEBUT IN ARIZONA WITH TWO NEW LOCATIONS OPENING THIS FALL. The first restaurant will open at Scottsdale Quarter Sept. 23, followed by a second location at Camelback and 32nd St. later this fall.
Sweetgreen, known for its chef-crafted salads, warm bowls, and protein plates, is excited to bring its fresh, seasonal menu to the Valley of the Sun. This expansion marks the brand’s first foray into Arizona, a milestone in its continued nationwide growth.
“We’re thrilled to introduce Sweetgreen to Arizona and become part of the vibrant communities in Scottsdale and Phoenix,” said Co-Founder and CEO Jonathan Neman. “Our mission is to
connect people to real food, and we’re excited to bring that experience to a state that values wellness, sustainability, and community.”
Each Sweetgreen location is designed with transparency and sustainability in mind — from open kitchens where meals are prepared fresh daily, to source boards that highlight local partners and purvey-
ors. Guests can expect longtime favorites like the Harvest Bowl and Crispy Rice Bowl, as well as protein-packed plates including Miso Glazed Salmon and Hot Honey Chicken.
As part of its commitment to community impact, Sweetgreen partners with local organizations to give back to the neighborhoods it serves. For every meal
purchased on Scottsdale Quarter’s opening day, Sweetgreen will donate a meal to St. Mary's Food Bank to nourish people in Greater Phoenix experiencing food insecurity. Additional grand opening activation details will be released soon.
The 2,515-square-foot space will accommodate up to 30 seated diners inside and 36 seated diners on the restaurant's patio. Guests can order instore or online at order.sweetgreen.com, or through the Sweetgreen app. The app also offers access to Sweetpass, the brand’s loyalty program, which includes personalized challenges, daily discounts, and exclusive merch drops.
Located at 15323 N. Scottsdale Road, Sweetgreen Scottsdale Quarter will be open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. To learn more about Sweetgreen, its menu, and its loyalty program, visit Sweetgreen. com. Follow @Sweetgreen on Instagram, Facebook, X,TikTok, and YouTube.
Desert Ridge Marketplace hosts Glow & Flow Wellness event
Image courtesy of Desert Ridge Marketplace
IN CELEBRATION OF NATIONAL SELF-CARE AWARENESS MONTH THIS SEPTEMBER, DESERT RIDGE MARKETPLACE INVITES THE COMMUNITY TO JOIN THE GLOW & FLOW WELLNESS EVENT ON SUNDAY, SEPT. 28, FROM 10:30 A.M. TO 1:30 P.M. AT THE AMC LAWN. This FREE, family-friendly event promises a morning filled with fitness, wellness, and relaxation activities for everyone to enjoy.
Attendees can take part in free yoga classes with Radi8 Yoga, try the on-site sauna and cold plunge, and explore wellness offerings such as IV drips, juice and coffee bars, and more! The event will also feature local
wellness vendors, giveaways, refreshing mimosas at the mobile Sip and Stroll bar, and additional activities designed to encourage self-care and healthy living.
Glow & Flow welcomes participants of all ages, offering diverse ways to engage — whether through movement, mindfulness, or simply enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. Desert Ridge is delivering the perfect opportunity to glow, flow, and embrace essential September self-care!
Desert Ridge Marketplace is located at 21001 N. Tatum Blvd. For more information, visit shopdesertridge.com/event/glow-flow-wellnessevent/.
City News
Fall Concerts on Sale Now!
Photo courtesy of MIM
TICKETS FOR THE MIM MUSIC THEATER’S FALL 2025 CONCERT SERIES ARE ON SALE NOW!
This season’s highlights include performances by 16-time Grammy winner Jerry Douglas and his bluegrass band; world-renowned a cappella group the King’s Singers; and celebrated singer-songwriter Martin Sexton, who will perform his reimagining of the iconic Beatles album Abbey Road. Beach Boys cofounder Al Jardine will return to the theater to perform a tribute to the late Brian Wilson, backed by Wilson’s former touring group, the Pet Sounds Band.
Several notable musicians will make their
debut performances at the MIM Music Theater this season, including Brazilian bandolim master Hamilton de Holanda, Scottish folk quintet Breabach, and Canadian jazz singer Caity Gyorgy. The ’70s soft rock band Orleans will perform acoustic versions of hit songs from its extensive catalog in its first concert at the theater. Returning favorites include singersongwriter Paula Cole, folk singer Judy Collins, Western swing quartet Riders in the Sky, and jazz pianist Emmet Cohen.
View the full lineup and buy tickets today! Additional artists will be added throughout the season.
Visit mim.org for more details and to purchase tickets.
Kids' Corner
Family Legendary Hospitality Brand Partners with World’s Largest
Indoor Pickleball and Padel Facility Based in Scottsdale
Image courtesy of Caliber
Caliber (NASDAQ: CWD), a real estate investor, developer and manager, today announced that its joint venture development,
PURE Pickleball & Padel™ (“PURE”), has signed a 10-year exclusive agreement with Wolfgang Puck Catering, a premium catering, corporate dining and hospitality company. Wolfgang Puck Catering will serve as the exclusive food and beverage services provider for PURE’s first-floor restaurant and bar, grab-and-go marketplace, pro arena concessions, second-floor special events space, teaching kitchen, VIP lounge, and rooftop patio and bar. Unique to this project, PURE and Wolfgang Puck Catering will co-market corporate and social events that blend sports and entertainment, world-class pickleball and padel events as well as exhibitions featuring culinary activities that inspire creativity and collaboration including hands-on cooking, custom menus and educational interaction with world-class chefs.
PURE Pickleball & Padel™ is developing an 11+ acre site in the Riverwalk Development Project located in the Talking Stick Entertainment District, a 100-acre site adjacent to Scottsdale. PURE will be a world-class pickleball and padel facility and pro arena and seeks to claim the title of the largest indoor pickleball and padel facility in the world. The 196,726-square-foot stateof-the-art facility will boast a 1,200seat pro arena, 40 indoor pickleball courts, eight indoor padel courts, sports performance and recovery fitness center by HonorHealth™, restaurant and bar by Wolfgang Puck
Catering, pro shop, locker rooms and spa, special event spaces, rooftop patio and bar, meeting spaces, childcare and other amenities.
Pamela Brunson, President of Wolfgang Puck Catering, said, “Racquet sports have long been popular, but it’s been exciting to see the rise of pickleball and padel and the positive impact they’re having both in the U.S. and around the world. This new partnership brings the best of two leading brands together and will deliver a world-class experience to guests.”
Chris Loeffler, CEO of Caliber, said, “We are excited to partner with Wolfgang Puck Catering, a renowned brand in the food service industry that fits our vision for PURE Pickleball & Padel™ as a premier destination for the sport’s enthusiasts and first-class social and culinary experiences.”
Kevin J. Berk, Co-Founder & CEO of PURE, said, “PURE engaged Wolfgang Puck Catering in a strategic opportunity to develop a show-site for culinary excellence at what will be the most iconic pickleball and padel facility in the world.”
For developing PURE, Caliber created the Pickleball at Riverwalk Fund, a single asset offering designed to invest in real estate, land sublease and business operations. This offering is active and allows for direct investment from accredited investors as well as qualified opportunity zone funds (QOFs) seeking to allocate capital to a potentially attractive qualified opportunity zone business (QOZB). Caliber has designed the offering for broad participation, seeking Pickleball & Padel en-
thusiasts who are looking for exposure to the two fastest-growing sports in the United States and the world.
For more information on the project, visitcaliberco.com/assets/pickleballpadel-in-arizona/.
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Raising the Standard of Dementia Care in Arizona
By Lin Sue Flood
Arizona is setting a bold new standard to better support families impacted by dementia. A groundbreaking state mandate requires all memory care facilities to provide up to 12 hours of specialized dementia training to their staff, plus four hours of continuing education each year. This extensive training combines online video modules with hands-on, in-person skills sessions.
Hospice of the Valley’s experienced Dementia Team is leading the way as one of the agencies the Arizona Department of Health Services has approved to deliver this comprehensive training. The nonprofit organization is unique in offering it as a free community service.
“This is truly great news for dementia care in Arizona,” said Dr. Gill Hamilton, medical director of Hospice of the Valley’s Supportive Care for Dementia program. “By sharing best practices and crucial skills with caregivers, we’re raising the standard of care for people living with all types and stages of this disease. This ensures they feel safe, valued and well cared for.”
Hospice of the Valley created 10 videos with realistic scenarios that mirror daily challenges caregivers face. Social worker Rebekah Wilson, a seasoned dementia care consultant with Aging Care Coach and Hospice of the Valley, plays a caregiver who models compassionate responses to common situations.
“Care is always about people, not tasks,” Wilson said. “These videos illustrate skilled approaches to providing comfort in mind, body and spirit — and also address the stress and burnout that caregivers often experience in the workplace.”
In addition to videos, the comprehensive curriculum includes written materials and assessments that cover topics such as communication and behavior challenges, safety awareness, and how to adapt emergency protocols for cognitively impaired residents.
“We designed these modules to be practical, engaging and deeply respectful of the people we serve,” said Calli Carlson, occupational therapist at Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus. “It’s about empowering caregivers with the confidence and tools they need to provide exceptional care.”
More than 1,500 caregivers across Arizona have already enrolled in Hospice of the Valley’s dementia training. Their feedback? The content is “interactive, engaging and refreshing — an innovative way to support professionals who want to provide high-quality care.”
Want to learn more? Visit dementiacampus.org/ classes-support/memory-care-training or call (602) 767-8300. Find training opportunities, support groups and resources for family and professional caregivers at dementiacampus.org.
Lin Sue Flood is Community Engagement Director for Hospice of the Valley.
Photos courtesy of Hospice of the Valley
Kathy Melamed and Rebekah Wilson roleplay realistic scenarios in dementia training videos.
Arizona memory care facilities must provide specialized training to staff.
Community Nominations for the Scottsdale Salutes program are open
THE CITY OF SCOTTSDALE IS ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR ITS ANNUAL SCOTTSDALE SALUTES PROGRAM, WHICH HONORS VETERANS, ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY, AND MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVES WITH TIES TO THE COMMUNITY.
Banners featuring selected honorees will be displayed on light poles in Old Town for two weeks in November, with a special reception recognizing them during Veterans Day events.
Nominees must live in Scottsdale, have lived here previously, or have a strong local connection, such as working in the city for at least five years. Nominations are open through Friday, Sept. 26, at ScottsdaleAZ.gov by searching “Scottsdale Salutes.” In addition to seeing their banners displayed in Old Town, Scottsdale Salutes honorees will be guests of honor at a special reception held in November and invited to walk in the annual Parada del Sol Historic Parade.
“Scottsdale Salutes allows us to say, ‘thank you’ in a meaningful way to the veterans and military members who are part of our community,” said Justin Layman, chair of the Scottsdale Veterans Advisory Commission. “Each honoree reminds us that our freedoms are secured by courage and sacrifice — we are honored to share their stories with the community.”
Scottsdale’s veteran and military awareness and recognition programs
have earned accolades.
Scottsdale Salutes is among a handful of programs initiated under the guidance of the city’s Veterans Advisory Commission, seven residents appointed by the City Council to advise on veteran programs, policies and practices and serve as a community connection point for veterans and the military community.
Another program is Veterans AZ, a video and podcast series that shares news, resources and personal stories of service. Produced by the city, the program is offered to other local governments and plays on municipal channels around the state.
The city has been widely recognized for its veterans’ programs. Scottsdale earned the U.S. Department of Defense’s “Top Performer” designation from the U.S. Vietnam War Commemoration for its annual Vietnam veterans recognition event and other efforts.
In May, Scottsdale Communications and Public Affairs Director Kelly Corsette was honored with the Copper Star Award by Unified Arizona Veterans and the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame Society. Corsette is the staff liaison to the Veterans Advisory Commission; he earned the Copper Star for his leadership in Scottsdale’s veterans initiatives including Veterans AZ, Scottsdale Salutes and Vietnam Veterans Day.
Visit scottsdaleaz.gov for more details.
Start Your Day Right: A Simple 3-Step Morning Routine to Help Alleviate Pain
Waking up feeling refreshed and ready for the day is a goal many people share, especially those dealing with ongoing pain. For many, the daily fight against discomfort can cloud the enjoyment of life. However, adopting an easy morning routine may help ease pain and pave the way for a brighter start to your day.
In Scottsdale, we had the opportunity to speak with Kourtney Zamora, an expert in the field of natural health, who shared her insights on natural pain relief methods. She holds a bachelor’s degree in health promotion and a doctorate in acupuncture, offering hope to those seeking relief from pain through traditional acupuncture techniques.
Dr. Zamora has a passion in helping others on their journey to better health, she emphasizes that the key elements for alleviating pain are movement, hydration, and heat. To help reduce discomfort and boost your overall health, here’s a simple three-step morning routine:
STEP 1: Gentle Movement and Stretching
Begin your day with easy stretches to loosen up your body and ease any aches. While you’re still in bed, stretch your arms overhead and point your toes to engage your entire body. You can also try gently twisting your body by dropping your knees to one side while looking in the opposite direction. These movements wake up your muscles and help your joints move better, making it easier to start your day. A gentle walk outdoors is a great option to get some movement in as well, even a short walk!
STEP 2: Stay Hydrated
Beginning your day with proper hydration can help alleviate pain and increase your energy levels. As soon as you wake up, drink a glass of water to replace the fluids you lost overnight. To make your hydration even better, you can add fresh lemon juice or a tiny bit of salt to your water. This helps your nerves and muscles work properly. Even ready-made electrolyte drinks can be beneficial. When living in a
desert climate, staying hydrated is crucial. Consider fueling your muscles from within by incorporating hydration-rich foods, such as fruits, into your diet!
STEP 3: Use Heat to Relax
Applying warmth can be very soothing for sore muscles. Here are some easy ways to incorporate heat into your morning routine:
• Use a heating pad before your morning walk to help relax your muscles.
• Warm your clothes in the dryer before getting dressed.
• Take a warm shower to help you feel relaxed and improve blood flow.
These simple methods can help you kick off the day on a positive note. The key is to create a wellness routine that you can easily incorporate into your daily life for optimal results. You may be surprised by the positive changes you notice after just a few weeks of consistent morning wellness rituals.
If you are experiencing chronic pain, please call 480-300-5767 to schedule an appointment at Zamora Acupuncture where you can discuss your health goals. For more information, visit www.azacu.com for support. Dr. Zamora, D.Ac. provides personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Working with her offers a comprehensive approach that focuses on relieving pain and improving your overall wellbeing, helping you live a more comfortable and active life.
*This information is for educational purposes only. The information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Hello Neighbor!
MY NAME: Kim Greenwald, BSN, MSN, MEd, CNOR
HOME ZIP CODE: 85383
BUSINESS NAME AND LOCATION: Phoenix Children’s Hospital–Arrowhead Campus, located at 19007 N. 67th Ave. in Glendale.
WHAT I DO: I am very proud to serve as the peri operative manager at Phoenix Children’s Hospital-Arrowhead Campus, which encompasses the medical care provided to a patient before, during, and after a surgical procedure. I also oversee the radiology post anesthesia care unit, which is a critical care unit where patients recover from anesthesia after MRI procedures.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
HIGHLIGHTS: Many people have winding roads that lead them to their ultimate dream profession. For me, all roads lead back to my mother, who was one of the first female nurse practitioners in the nation in my hometown of Cleveland as well as the Dean of Nursing at Cleveland
State University. With a role model like that, I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps as a child and never faltered. At 15, I began training as a candy striper, and by 18 began formal studies to enter the profession. In addition to my mother, the team of instructors and nurses at Ursuline College where I pursued my degree served as major role models in my life as well, showing the importance of servant leadership in all that we do as nurses. There, I also knew my passion within the field was surgical nursing. I’ve worked in several roles in my many years in the job, including for geriatrics before making the move to pediatrics.
WHEN AND WHY, I STARTED
EMPLOYMENT HERE: In 2011, I was working in surgery taking care of the geriatric population at Boswell Hospital when a friend challenged me to pivot to pediatrics. I truly love both working with the older population as well as with children, so the move would allow me to fulfill a dream. The day I took this job was one of the best days of my life, followed by everyday since working at Phoenix Children’s, especially now that we have our Arrowhead campus in the heart of the west valley.
WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT DOING BUSINESS HERE: Every day when I come to work; it is not work. Being part of this amazing team is a blessing and a joy that is hard to put into words. Working here, I understand miracles, overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles, hope, family, teamwork, faith and
resiliency on a whole different level. The work we do here allows me to live out the ideals of servant leadership each day, focusing on putting families first, being a coach and cheerleader, celebrating victories, and coaching through shadows with a fantastic, highly skilled team. The collaboration between departments is also special and that comes from our Associate Chief Nursing Officer Dianne Bennett, and Susan Johnson, director of perioperative services.
WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT AND WHY:
When Phoenix Children’s Hospital–Arrowhead Campus opened its doors in August 2024, it debuted with 24 inpatient beds, a 24/7 emergency department with 30 treatment rooms, six operating rooms, two minor procedure rooms, an onsite laboratory and a full suite of imaging services, answering a pressing need for high-quality pediatric services in the West Valley. In March 2025, the hospital opened an additional 24 beds, giving families even more access to important care in the West Valley community. By doubling our total beds to 48, we can now accommodate twice as many kids, especially those that need additional diagnostics, observation, and care. Our hospital is growing swiftly to meet the needs of our community. We have a just culture of caring where all voices are heard and respected, and, we always put the families first. We also have amazing partnerships with the top physicians, nurses, and specialists in their fields and a close relationship with our Thomas and Avondale campuses as well.
FAVORITE COMMUNITY CAUSE
AND WHY: In addition to the Phoenix Children’s Foundation, which supports Phoenix Children’s mission to advance hope, healing and the best health care for children and their families, I am personally invested in both autism causes as well as programs that support gifted children. I have a grandson living with autism, so I am dedicated to supporting initiatives across the West Valley that provide access and remove barriers to care. Similarly, I have another grandson who is a gifted student, and just as with autism, families must stand up and be vocal to ensure that their kids have access, suitable programs, tools, and interventions as needed.
MY FAMILY: It all starts with my husband of 50 years, Michael, who has supported every step in my nursing career, always telling me that “if your heart is there, go for it.” We have two adult children — Kevin, who is a physical education teacher at Ridgeline Academy, and Kristi, who manages a local physical therapy center and recently completed her residency in orthopedic medicine. She is currently awaiting the results of her national orthopedic boards. Kevin is a dad to two of our grandkids in Keith and Kamaya, and Kristi is a mom to our third grandchild, Kellen. I also have a sister Cindy and her husband Joe who live close by. My mom is still active in all of our lives and continues to influence the family with her engagement, love and compassion.
Kim Greenwald (Submitted photo)
Education eCybermission Clean Water Crew
Photos courtesy of PVSchools
PVSchools are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Sonoran Sky Elementary’s sixth-grade CGC “Clean Water Crew”! This remarkable team, comprised of Lily Gerstman, Juliana Hajbandeh, Ava McHugh, and Ayah Weitz, recently placed among the top 5 sixth-grade teams nationwide in the eCybermission science competition.
Under the guidance of Mrs. Bailey Mittelstadt, the “Clean Water Crew” participated in this nationwide competition by researching and testing water samples from Scottsdale and Phoenix to assess the cleanliness and safety of local water sources. This challenge encouraged participants
to apply the scientific method or engineering design process to solve pressing community issues.
Going up against 2,174 other teams, the Thunderbirds secured victories at both state and regional levels, and advanced to the national competition where their hard work and dedication earned them a top 5 spot among all of the sixth-grade teams in the country. Their commitment to scientific problem-solving is truly commendable. Furthermore, the team won the prestigious People’s Choice Award, surpassing 24 other teams, grades 6-9, from across the country — winning the popular vote!
A special congratulations to our Sonoran Sky Thunderbirds for making us incredibly proud!
Cover Story
Billie & Lulu’s: THE PLUS-SIZE BOUTIQUE FILLING A LONG-OVERDUE GAP
Photos courtesy of Billie & Lulu’s
When Billie & Lulu’s opened its doors last fall, no one could have predicted just how quickly it would become a destination. Tucked inside a vintage-filled plaza at Cactus and Cave Creek Roads in Phoenix, the plus-size secondhand boutique has not only captured the attention of shoppers across the Valley, but it has also drawn visitors from as far away as Tucson, Flagstaff, and Prescott.
The store is the creation of best friends Natasha Beal and Heidi Koffman. For Heidi, who is plussize herself, the motivation came from years of frustration at the lack of options in her size. Natasha, though not plus-size, saw that same gap through her friend’s experiences and knew their community
deserved better. Together, they set out to create the kind of boutique that had been missing: a welcoming space dedicated entirely to women sizes 14+ and XL–6X.
“We never understood why there were so few places for women who wear larger sizes to shop,” Heidi explained. “I know firsthand how frustrating it is to walk into a store and realize nothing goes past a 2X or maybe a 3X. But the need doesn’t stop there — it goes to 6X and beyond. We wanted to create a store where women of all sizes could finally have real options — and feel like they truly belong.”
“We never set out to open a store, but when the shop space became available, it just felt right,” Natasha added. “Sometimes the pieces just fall into place, and you realize it was meant to be all along.”
A FAMILY AFFAIR
The name Billie & Lulu’s is a tribute to the owners’ beloved pets: Natasha’s cat Billie and Heidi’s dog Talulah, “Lulu.” Lulu sadly passed away earlier this year, but her memory lives on through the boutique’s name.
“This shop has always been about love,” Heidi said. “Love for our customers, love for the community, and love for the people and pets that mean the most to us.”
That spirit of family carries into the way the store is run. Natasha’s husband, Brian, helps behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly, and even Natasha’s son Gavin pitches in by delivering laundry and running errands.
“We joke that it takes a village,” Natasha laughed. “But really, it does. We all pitch in wherever we’re needed because we believe in this shop and what it represents.”
Lulu
Heidi and Natasha
Billie
MORE THAN JUST A STORE
The moment you step inside Billie & Lulu’s, you notice it’s different. The racks are filled with everything from modern pieces by Torrid and Lane Bryant to funky, straight-out-of-the-70s vintage finds. The store has something for every mood, every style, every occasion.
But for Natasha, the magic isn’t just in the clothes — it’s in the moment of discovery.
“I love helping people find their style,” she explained. “Sometimes it takes someone else believing in you before you can see it in yourself. We’ll encourage women to try on something they’d never even think to pull off the rack. When they step out of the fitting room, see themselves in the mirror, and just light up that’s the best part.”
Beyond their curated racks, the boutique also rents “closet space” to more than 20 vendors, each bringing their own unique style and flair. These vendors sell clothing, jewelry, handbags, and accessories — so the shop is constantly evolving.
“It’s like shopping 20 different closets at once,” Heidi explained. “Every vendor brings their own style, so the racks never look the same twice. It feels like a brand-new store every week.”
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
The boutique’s location couldn’t be more perfect. Nestled in the Shops on Cave Creek Road plaza among antique, thrift, and vintage shops, Billie & Lulu’s benefits from what Natasha calls “store hopping energy.”
“People come to the plaza to check out one store, and end up wandering through the rest,” she said. “It helps all of us. That sense of collaboration instead of competition is exactly why we love being here.”
Starting this fall, Billie & Lulu’s will also host regular vendor markets, giving local makers and small business owners a chance to showcase their products right outside the boutique.
“These markets are another way for us to bring people together,” Heidi said. “We want our shop to feel like a safe, fun space where women can connect and celebrate who they are.”
CUSTOMERS WHO BECOME FAMILY
Ask Natasha and Heidi about their favorite part of owning Billie & Lulu’s, and they won’t hesitate: it’s the people.
“We’ve had women drive in from across the state just to shop here,” Heidi said. “When they tell us they couldn’t find anything like this where they live, it reminds us why we opened. It’s hard running a brick-and-mortar business, but every time we meet a customer like that, we know we’re doing the right thing.”
Natasha agreed: “That’s what keeps us going—the people who tell us this store makes them feel like this space was created for them. For too long, women in bigger sizes have been told that fashion isn’t for them. We want to change that — we want every woman who walks in to feel comfortable and confident.”
GRATITUDE ABOVE ALL
Running a small business hasn’t been without challenges. There have been long days, late nights, and plenty of uncertainty. But through it all, Natasha and Heidi remain grounded in gratitude.
“We know how lucky we are,” Natasha said. “Lucky to have found this space, lucky to have each other, and lucky to be surrounded by people who believe in what we’re doing.”
The boutique’s secondhand focus also reinforces that gratitude — it’s not just good for wallets, but for the planet.
“Secondhand shopping is smart shopping,” Natasha said. “It’s affordable, it’s environmentally responsible, and it allows you to build a one-of-a-kind wardrobe.”
As Billie & Lulu’s heads into its second year, the owners hope to keep growing — not just in sales, but in community impact. “At the end of the day, this store isn’t just about clothes,” Heidi said. “It’s about giving women a place where they can see themselves reflected. That’s what makes it worth it.”
LOOKING AHEAD
That sense of gratitude will be front and center on Friday, October 11, when Billie & Lulu’s celebrates its one-year anniversary with special sales, swag bags, free bra fittings, and more.
The milestone comes just days after National Plus-Size Appreciation Day on October 6, a fitting reminder of why the store exists in the first place. “It’ll be a celebration of everyone who has walked through our doors,” Heidi said. “We wouldn’t be here without our community.”
CLOSING NOTE
In a world where so much shopping has moved online, Billie & Lulu’s is proof that brick-and-mortar stores still matter — especially when they’re built with heart.
For Natasha and Heidi, Billie & Lulu’s isn’t just a boutique. It’s a family-run dream, a gathering place, and a reminder that local businesses thrive when neighbors support neighbors.
Billie & Lulu’s is located at 11649 N. Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, and is open Thursday–Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find them online at billieandlulus.com or on Instagram and Facebook @billieandlulus.
and
“We’ve had women dr ive in from acr oss the state just to shop her e. When they tell us they couldn’t find anything like this where they live, it reminds us why we opened. It’s hard running a brick-and-mortar business, but every time we meet a customer like that, we know we’re doing the right thing.”
Sizes XL-6X
Heidi and Natasha on The Morning Show with Melissa Farley
Marshall Shore.
Legal
Planning for Your Incapacity
By Libby Banks, The Law Office of Libby Banks, PLLC
We think of estate planning as being about who will get your assets on your death. But it’s also about who will manage your assets and take care of you and your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. With proper planning, you decide that. Without proper planning a court will make the choice for you.
A person is incapacitated when they are unable to make decisions for themself. Incapacity can result from an accident, or arise from health issues, dementia or plain old age. If you are alive but can’t take care of your financial matters, you need the right legal documents in place to be sure someone else can.
The Revocable Living Trust is the best way to plan for incapacity. When you set up a Revocable Living Trust, you transfer assets from your name to the name of your trust. While you are alive and well, you control your trust and assets as the trustee. You name a successor trustee to take over upon incapacity and on your death. That person steps into your shoes to take care of your financial affairs quickly. With the Trust, your business stays private. If you recover your capacity to manage your finances you resume your role as trustee of your trust. If you have no plan, your family may need to go to court, and all of your finances may become public record.
The Revocable Living Trust is a better
way to address incapacity than a durable power of attorney — although both are necessary to a proper plan.
The Revocable Living Trust:
• Is readily accepted by financial institutions.
• Holds a successor trustee to a high fiduciary standard.
• Allows your successor trustee to quickly and efficiently begin managing your assets to care for you and your finances.
With a Revocable Living Trust in place, you can have peace of mind that you will be taken care of and your finances will not fall into disarray if you are incapacitated.
Another consideration is who will make health care decisions if you are unable to make them because of incapacity. You need three additional documents to assure you will be taken care of by those you want to be the decision makers. Those documents, called advance medical directives, include a Healthcare Power of Attorney (sometimes also called a Health Care Proxy), a Living Will, and a HIPAA Authorization. These important documents work together to allow your chosen person to direct your health care if you become incapacitated.
Be sure you keep your plan up-to-date. Review your estate plan periodically and make sure it still meets your needs. We are happy to help you get an estate plan in place or review your existing plan. Just call the office at 602-375-6752 to schedule your free initial consultation.
Health
In 30 minutes I Had a Plan for My Shoulder Pain that Didn’t Require Surgery or Pills
By Shoulder Pain Expert, Dr. Matthew Hernandez Ethos Integrative Medicine
“Iwas losing sleep. I couldn’t get comfortable at night and would wake up constantly. That was the most frustrating part. Everything I was told to do was not helping… the pain was only getting worse.”
Tim, 46, came to us after exhausting every option outside of surgery. A competitive volleyball player, energetic entrepreneur, and father to two boys, Tim took pride in his active lifestyle and was determined to find a solution for his shoulder pain.
Ice packs and heat compresses were no longer helpful, and relying on pain-pills was not an option he wanted to take. He committed to physical therapy for several weeks with little impact, tried dry needling and cortisone injections without success, and was ultimately told by multiple doctors to stop all activity that aggravated his arm. Tim had done everything his insurance allowed but was still stuck at square one.
WHAT THE OTHER DOCTORS MISSED…
Tim had fallen into what we call “The Gap”— where insurance-based care cycles with no end in sight, surgery isn’t an option, and waiting for the pain to get worse seems like the only choice. Most providers only look for what they know how to treat. But our comprehensive ‘Deep Dive’ approach and expertise allowed us to bridge that gap for Tim.
Using a detailed pain profile, 32-point shoulder inspection, MSK ultrasound scan, and diagnostic injection, we were able to confirm Tim’s SC Joint injury and quickly develop a targeted treatment plan to heal the damaged tissue.
A COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTION, NO SURGERY OR PILLS
In just 4 weeks, the pain improved significantly, allowing Tim to regain his range of motion, sleep soundly at night, and return to the sport he loves:
“My body is performing better than before, and I have resumed playing volleyball — something I didn’t think I would ever be able to do again! If
you’re tired of the ‘just hope for the best’ from many in the medical field, and want a complete set of options, Ethos Integrative Medicine is the place to go.”
YOUR NEXT STEP: THE DEEP DIVE FOR A PAIN-FREE SHOULDER
You’re one step away from a pain-free shoulder, too! Imagine being able to comfortably sleep in your side again, play catch with your kid, or put on a t-shirt without pain…
Call 480-573-6171 to schedule your Deep Dive with our specialists at Ethos Integrative Medicine and scan the QR code to access our free report,
“Shoulder
SOS: The Expert Guide to Decoding Your Pain.”
EXPERIENCE THE FREEDOM OF A PAIN-FREE SHOULDER:
CLUES ACROSS
1. Fairly large
6. Barrels per day (abbr.)
9. Cover the entirety of
13. Leafy appetizer
14. Showy ornament
15. Norse personification of old age
16. Athletes
17. Closes tightly
18. Attack via hurling items
19. Where the reserves stand
21. Sword
22. Begat
23. Damage another’s reputation
24. Northeast
25. Turf
28. For each
29. Hours (Spanish)
31. Western state
33. One who offers help
36. Flanks
38. A woolen cap of Scottish origin
39. Free from drink or drugs
41. Tunnels
44. Mature
45. More dried-up
46. News organization
48. Steal something
49. Forms one’s public persona(abbr.)
51. Female fish eggs
52. Small petrel of southern seas
54. Edible starches
56. Historical
60. In a place to sleep
61. Horse grooms
62. Off-Broadway theater award
63. Chinese dynasty
64. Resembling a wing
65. Small projection on a bird’s wing
66. Of the Isle of Man
67. Derived unit of force (abbr.)
68. Plate for Eucharist
CLUES DOWN
1. Vipers
2. Ancient city in Syria
3. Slog
4. Emits coherent radiation
5. “Pollock” actor Harris
6. Bleated
7. Monetary units of Afghanistan
8. Tooth doctor
9. One who takes apart
10. Commoner
11. Beat poet Ginsberg
12. Cave deposit material
14. Home energy backup
17. Begets
20. Face part
what those summer storms
do: blown-off shingles, surprise skylights (not the good kind), and leaks that show up just in time for dinner.
21. Frocks
23. Hill or rocky peak
25. Giving the impression of dishonesty
26. About ear
27. Male parents
29. Popular grilled food
30. Vaccine developer
32. Not conforming
34. Polite address for women
35. 1970 U.S. environmental law
37. Astronomical period of 18 years
40. One who fights the government
42. Center for Excellence in Education
43. Watches discreetly
47. An electrically charged atom
49. Hymn
50. Arabic given name
52. Popular pie nut
53. City in Zambia
55. Species of cherry
56. John __, British writer
57. Be next to
58. Make angry
59. Give birth to a lamb or kid
61. Unhappy
SOLUTION ON PAGE 17
Don’t wait for the rain to find out your roof failed! CALL STAPLETON ROOFING TODAY.
Because the only thing dripping this summer should be the salsa, not your ceiling.
“If You’ve Been Told There’s Nothing You Can Do About Hand Arthritis... Read This.”
By Dr. Tom Padilla, Doctor of Physical Therapy and
author of “Solving the Root Cause of Pain” Frustrated With Hand Pain That’s Holding You Back? You’re Not Alone.
If you’ve been told that hand arthritis is something you “just have to live with,” and your only real options are pills, creams, or compression gloves — you’re not alone.
But a new non-drug treatment is now helping people regain strength, mobility, and relief — without relying on fixes that don’t work or giving up the activities they love.
Many people who come to our clinic have already tried all the usual solutions. But the pain lingers. Tasks like opening jars, steering a car, or writing a list feel frustrating — not because they’re hard, but because they should be easy.
Why Pills, Creams, and Gloves Only Scratch the Surface.
Most treatments only manage symptoms. At best, you get short-term relief. At worst, you’re stuck cycling through products and pills that don’t solve the problem.
But for many, a breakthrough therapy is offering real results — even when nothing else has worked.
What I Learned After Being Told I Had Arthritis in My Hands.
Years ago, I was diagnosed with arthritis and told the same thing: “You’ll just have to live with it. Here is some Celebrex.” My grip was weak, my hands ached, and my ability to do my job was slipping.
Later, I found the real issue was mold toxicity — not joint degeneration. But I’ll never forget the frustration of being dismissed, handed pills, and left to figure it out on my own.
That’s why I built a clinic that looks deeper and helps people find answers — and for those with hand arthritis, we now offer something that may be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
This New Technology is Giving People Their Grip (and Their Lives) Back.
We’ve introduced a non-invasive regenerative therapy that works by stimulating
circulation, reducing inflammation, and activating natural tissue repair — without drugs, creams, or surgery.
Shockwave therapy, a tool long used in Europe and elite sports medicine, combined with the right treatment plan and strategy is helping people return to work, hobbies, and daily tasks without that familiar ache.
“Life changing!. I have struggled with arthritis in my fingers for a number of years, no treatments helped. After 5 treatments, I now have full range of motion in my index finger and it functions normally with no pain. It truly is amazing!” — Mike Covert, Scottsdale
“I haven’t been able to move my thumb like this in - I don’t know how long! I cannot believe how well this has worked” — Laine Byrum, Scottsdale
Who It’s Helping — And How Fast People Are Seeing Results.
This treatment isn’t for everyone. But it’s helped many people who:
•Have had arthritis in their hands or fingers for over 3 months
•Still have movement, but pain or stiffness limits daily life
•Want to avoid the pills, creams, gloves, and injections cycle
•Are proactive, solution-seeking, and tired of being told to “just live with it”
Some patients start to notice improvements in as little as 2–3 sessions. Others see steady, compounding relief over several weeks.
What matters is that it’s real, measurable progress — not another bandaid.
Request Your Free Info Packet Today
If you’re curious whether this could help you — or someone you care about — we’ve created a free information packet that explains:
•What causes most hand arthritis to worsen — and what can be done to help
•How this therapy works & who it’s for
•What to expect step-by-step if you qualify
•Real case studies from your neighbors who have regained motion, grip, and relief
OPEN YOUR CAMERA & SCAN TO GET YOUR COPY
To Request Your Free Hand Arthritis Info Packet:
Email: info@thedoctorsofpt.com with subject: “Hand Relief Info”
Or visit: www.thedoctorsofpt.com/handarthritis
Prefer to talk now? Call 480-482-0651
“If You’re Tired of ‘Just Deal With It’ — And You’re Looking For Real Relief — This is For You
You’ve already tried the creams, the pills, and the gadgets.
You’ve done what the experts told you — and you’re still looking for answers.
If you’re ready for a different outcome — on your terms — this is the next step.
Every Week You Wait is a Week Lost…
If you’re tired of struggling to grip, write, or open a jar without pain — don’t keep putting it off. Call 480-482-0651 now and ask if this breakthrough treatment is right for you.
SUDOKU BY METRO CREATIVE SERVICES
HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. SOLUTION ON PAGE
BEFORE: Could not close hand AFTER Full Fist!
SEPTEMBER HAPPENINGS
THE WEST’S MOST WESTERN RODEO
When: September 5-7
Where: Westworld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
What: The West’s Most Western Rodeo is a PRCA-sanctioned rodeo event, located in The West’s Most Western Town, and is 3 days long. 2024 marked the very first year for this rodeo! The dates for the 2nd annual The West’s Most Western Rodeo will be September 5-7 and will be located at the Westworld of Scottsdale Equidome Arena. The Rodeo performances are at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Gates open 2 hours prior to each performance. It is HIGHLY recommended to get to the arena at least one hour early so parking
and seating can be situated without missing any of this great rodeo action! Rodeo Scottsdale’s ticket sales have gone 100% digital and contact-free! Beware of online ticket scammers!
RodeoScottsdale.com and Bamm
Tickets are the ONLY authorized ticket providers. Info: rodeoscottsdale.com/
ARIZONA STATE FAIR
When: September 19-October 26
Where: Arizona State Fair, 1826 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix
What: For 141 years, the Arizona State Fair has been a gathering place for our diverse residents from the far corners of the state, to honor the past, celebrate the now and explore the
future. Come add some excitement into your day and immerse yourself in a wonderland of amusement right in your own backyard. The State Fair is open September 19-October 26 (open Thursday-Sunday only). Try rides like the thrilling Heidi Coaster or the speedy Overdrive, the classic Banana Split, Pickle Split or Flaming Hot Cheeto pretzels, pizza, corn dogs and so much more!
Info: azstatefair.com/
CABS & CUTS DINNER AT J&G STEAKHOUSE
When: September 25
Where: J&G Steakhouse at The Phoenician, 6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale
What: Raise a glass and savor the night — join us at J&G Steakhouse for our lively Cabs & Cuts pairing dinner! Experience the refined elegance of J&G Steakhouse, where premium cuts and seasonal ingredients come together in a carefully curated tasting menu. Each course is thoughtfully paired with selections from Jackson Family Wines, a renowned familyowned winery based in Santa Rosa, California. With over 40 acclaimed brands — including the iconic KendallJackson label — Jackson Family Wines crafts exceptional vintages sourced from premier vineyards worldwide. This unforgettable evening promises a perfect harmony of exquisite flavors and distinguished wines, creating a
truly memorable dining experience. Price: $273, inclusive of tax and gratuity. Reserve your spot for an
Info:
THE FALL MARICOPA COUNTY HOME & GARDEN SHOW
When: September 26-28
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
What: Don’t Miss the 25th Annual Maricopa County Home & Garden Show — September 26–28 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Join us as the Fall Maricopa County Home & Garden Show returns for its 25th year! For three days only, explore over 1,000 booths showcasing the latest in home improvement, renovation, décor, and landscaping. This year’s mustsee feature? The Kitchen Showcase, where local contractors are designing and building jaw dropping kitchens and competing for “Best in Show”. See cutting-edge designs, cascading marble, backsplash, lighting design,
high-end appliances, and meet expert kitchen remodelers ready to turn your dream kitchen into a reality. Info: maricopacountyhomeshows. com/attend/
THE FORMAT: COLISEUM CONCERT SERIES AT ARIZONA STATE FAIR
When: September 27
Where: Arizona State Fair & Coliseum, 1826 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix
What: The Format returns to the stage for the first time in years with a very special hometown show at the Arizona State Fair. Don’t miss Nate Ruess and Sam Means live at the historic Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Saturday, September 27.This festival-style experience includes a full-band headlining set by The Format, plus a curated outdoor sidestage featuring performances by rising Phoenix artists including Sydney Sprague, Astrologer, JPW, Dad Weed, and more to be announced. Outdoor sets take place before
and after The Format’s Coliseum performance, creating a full day of music and celebration. Tickets start at $25 and include admission to the Arizona State Fair Info: azstatefair.com/event/theformat/
UB40: THE RELENTLESS TOUR
When: September 30, 2025
Where: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler What: The legendary reggae-pop band UB40 has been bringing feel-good vibes and timeless hits for over four decades. With global chart-toppers like “Red Red Wine,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “Kingston Town,” their signature blend of reggae, ska, and pop continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Known for their smooth grooves and infectious rhythms, UB40 delivers an unforgettable live experience. Don’t miss your chance to sing along to the classics and feel the rhythm of UB40 live!
Info: chandlercenter.org/events/ub40
Entertainment Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates
By Tony Beal
IN THEATERS
Strange Harvest
A mockumentary about the resurgence of a serial killer that has connections to the occult.
Genuinely one of the most infuriating films of the year. Strange Harvest’s boisterous and shallow story has you constantly questioning what the mood of the film really is. Complicated with loud music at inopportune times and so feeling of a proper story arc. The actors performances felt extremely unnatural and heavily staged. Exactly the opposite of want from a mockumentary. The writer seemed to think the audience were a bunch of toddlers, by over explaining simple concepts, such as how the crimes depicted had been relatively ignored by not only authorities, but society itself. There is the occasional purposeful creepy imagery created by the poor quality of the cameras, but that about as far as the artistic eye of our director seems to be able to go. Overall, the film is too dramatic and simply not real enough. Delivering a one, two punch that is devastating for this movie.
Weapons
A series of inter-connected stories about the horrors a small-town
endures following the disappearance of 17 children.
Warner Bros. picked a winner with this one. From the get-go, the sense of uneasy dread is so heavy you can’t help but clench your teeth. All the characters are constantly making the worst decisions yet doing so in a way where you can’t really get mad at them. Instead, a feeling of sympathy begins to take over. An easy slip into panic and blame towards the easy targets tops off an already overfilled cup of emotional turmoil. At some points I found myself ignoring the obvious threats because they felt as if they just hit too close to home. It’s the proper type of horror that has something real being told in a hidden subtext but is still focused on still being scary first. I can appreciate some good sudden bouts of gore when used at the right point.
The Naked Gun
Frank Drebin Jr displays all the skills and antics of his father as he investigates a murder tied to a local billionaire.
The newest addition to the Naked Gun family of movies is exactly what the spirit of the Zucker-Abrahams films where while still finding its own voice. Every individual in the film is on the same level of silly without coming off as derivative. Until Kevin Durand is brought out. Somehow Durand manages to act like he’s in a different
movie. From the opening scene to the end credits, the jokes quite literally don’t stop. Extreme puns and guffaw jokes, to subtle background gags, it’s nonstop hilarious. This is a crew that is incredibly engaged with what they are making and want the audience to have the best experience. It’s terrific. Welcome back big screen comedies.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
On an alternate Earth, the Fantastic Four must fight forces from beyond their universe to save their family and the world.
Disappointing might be the best way to describe the feeling of coming out of the latest reboot of the first family. The was constantly on the verge of being great yet always falling just short. The unique world, an incredible cast, interesting themes of fate and celebrity; F4 has all the makings of a terrific film and squanders it. The largest component for this failure stems from how rushed the story feels. Jumping from one place to the next without fleshing out topics properly. Subject like how the world feels about the Four when their perfect image is broken. Or the internal conflict Reed Richards feels about his own mind. Even lead characters like Ben Grimm, AKA The Thing, feel like they’ve been sidelined in terms of their personal life. In Ben’s case, his relationship with Natasha Lyonne’s character clearly had a storyline that was cut from the
final product. Even though this new world’s overall esthetic is visually a masterpiece, it doesn’t feel particularly thought out in how it changes from the mainline MCU. Beyond the look, not much is different in the world itself. I don’t want to say it’s a bad movie, because it most certainly is not. I just felt as if it had so much more to give.
COMING SOON
September 5
The Conjuring: Last Rites
Highest 2 Lowest (Apple TV+)
September 12
The Long Walk
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale Spinal Tap II: The End Continues
Demon Slayer — Kimetsu no Yaiba —
The Movie: Infinity Castle
Toy Story: 30th Anniversary
The History Of Sound (Limited)
Rabbit Trap (Limited)
September 19
Him
A Big Bold Beautiful Journey
The Senior Waltzing With Brando
September 26
One Battle After Another Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie
The Strangers: Chapter 2
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