North Phoenix News, January 2023

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City News

411: The Latest Local News You Need to Know

Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” runs from Friday through Sunday from Jan. 13 through Jan. 22 at 1611 W. Whispering Wind Dr., Ste. 9.

MARICOPA COUNTY OFFERS VOUCHERS FOR PROPANE FIRE PIT PROGRAM

In Maricopa County, a combination of wood-burning and stagnant weather conditions can create poor air quality during the winter. Using a propane fire pit rather than wood-burning pits and fireplaces can reduce air pollution caused by smoke. In an effort to reduce smoke produced by outdoor wood burning fire pits, the Maricopa County Air Quality Department has created a Propane Fire Pit Program in partnership with the Arizona Propane Gas Association, the Propane Education & Research Council, and Home Depot. The county is offering a $75 voucher toward the purchase of a propane fire pit. The program is available to all Maricopa County residents. To learn more, visit cleanairmakemore.com/firepit.

The show follows 15-year-old Christopher. He is exceptional at mathematics, but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched, and he distrusts strangers. Now it is past midnight, and Christopher stands beside his neighbor’s dead dog, Wellington, who has been speared with a garden fork. Finding himself under suspicion, Christopher is determined to solve the mystery of who murdered Wellington, and he carefully records each fact of the crime. But his detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a thrilling journey that upturns his world.

Starlight Community Theater is a non-profit community theater dedicated to providing live theater to entertain and enrich our community. To learn more and purchase tickets to this show, visit starlightcommunitytheater.com.

Anthem alumni on Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Accompanied by Dr. Jeffrey Kennedy, the evening will feature MTA's Producing Artistic Director, Jackie Hammond, professional vocalists including Brian Sweis, Adam Vargas, Melissa Davis, and MTA alumni Grace Davis, Savannah Foy, Jadyn Momeyer, KyLeigh Montgomery, and Alexis Rosenbaum. Come ready to be moved, to laugh, and feel inspired!

Musical Theatre of Anthem is located at 42201 N. 41st Dr. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit musicaltheatreofanthemorg.

CATCH A PERFORMANCE OF “THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME” AT

THEATER

Starlight Community Theater’s production of “The

MUSICAL THEATRE OF ANTHEM PRESENTS: SONDHEIM CABARET

TEXAS HOLD’EM TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER

Head to the Tennessee Grill and Bar, 4220 W. Summit Walk, on Jan. 29 and a portion of your breakfast or lunch bill will go to the Anthem Rotary to be distributed to the local charities they support. The fundraising continues with a Texas Hold’em Tournament at the Tennessee Grill and Bar, starting at 3:30 p.m. the same day. Hosted by Aces Full Poker, there will be cash prizes to the top three players at the final table. There’s a $50 buy in with $10 add-on chip option rebuys through the first break. For more information, visit facebook.com/ anthemrotary.

STARLIGHT COMMUNITY

Enjoy an evening of Stephen Sondheim's music starring professional vocalists and Musical Theatre of

City News Ridgeline Running Club Returns

Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Unity Walk 2023

JOIN ANTHEM RESIDENTS AS THEY CELEBRATE THE LIFE AND WORK OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

The Annual Anthem MLK Day Celebration brings the community together to applaud the lessons Dr. King taught. One of the celebration highlights is the Unity Walk––a symbol of his inspiration that’s carried now and into the future. This is a celebration showing the power of individuals and the community to make a positive difference.

The Mon., Jan. 16, event starts at 9 a.m. and the Unity Walk begins after closing prayer at the Anthem Community Park Amphitheater, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy.

FEATURED HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Significance of the Community Walk

• Student MLK Essay Winner Award Presentations

• High School Essay Winner Speech

• The True Meaning of Community Service

• Keynote speaker (TBA)

• Closing Prayer

The Community Park Amphitheater has tiered seating with a clear view of the stage area. Attendees should consider bringing a blanket or their own chairs. Anybody participating in the Unity Walk is encouraged to wear proper footwear for the one-mile path on cement and other paved, manmade materials. For more information, visit onlineatanthem.com/events/martin_luther_king_jr_ celebration_and_unity_walk.php.

THE RIDGELINE RUNNING CLUB IS BACK IN JANUARY. Open to kids in grades kindergarten through sixth, Ridgeline’s running club is a way for kids to get active and learn healthy habits. The club practices for seven weeks on Wednesdays after school and on week eight, there’s an annual 1-mile race that kids and their families can participate in, with kids from each grade level earning a medal. The $25 registration includes a t-shirt. For more information, email btoussaint@ridgelineacademy.org. Registration is available at https://forms. gle/zNjaR5HYjbJMv96i8.

Phoenix Awarded Funding for Bike-toSchool and Pedestrian Safety Initiatives

continue providing safety awareness and education to all users of Phoenix streets."

The funding will be used to purchase bicycle helmets for students who participate in the city's annual bike-to-school events and LED stop sign paddles for crossing guards stationed at high-traffic locations citywide. These funds will also be used to enhance pedestrian and bicycle awareness through educational materials and a public safety campaign.

"The safety of the community is a top priority and is an integral part of the city's new Vision Zero Road Safety Action Plan," says Pedestrian Safety Coordinator Mailen Pankiewicz. "We're grateful and excited to receive this support from the Governor's Office of Highway Safety. It will help us

The resources funded by the grant will help to support strategies outlined in the comprehensive Vision Zero Road Safety Action Plan that was unanimously approved by Phoenix City Council in September 2022. That plan will guide the city to a goal of reducing the number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Phoenix to zero by 2050, including benchmarks of a 25 percent reduction by 2027 and a 65 percent reduction by 2035. The plan is available at phoenix.gov/roadsafety.

The Street Transportation Department also is in the process of developing an Active Transportation Plan, which will establish a framework to improve infrastructure for walking, biking, and using e-scooters and other micromobility devices in Phoenix. A live virtual public meeting was held on Dec. 5, to discuss the draft plan with the community.

Photo courtesy of the city of Phoenix

THE ARIZONA GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF HIGHWAY SAFETY RECENTLY AWARDED $25,000 TO THE PHOENIX STREET TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT TO SUPPORT ITS ON-GOING BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN SAFETY PROGRAMS.

City News Grieving Children and Families Find Healing at New Center

By Lin Sue Flood Photos courtesy of Hospice of the Valley

WHEN MELISSA ALVARADO’S OLDEST DAUGHTER, GLORIA, DIED IN MAY, SHE QUICKLY REALIZED HER FAMILY NEEDED PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT AND TO BE AROUND OTHERS WHO COULD FULLY GRASP THEIR PAIN.

At New Song Center for Grieving Children, they discovered support groups and meaningful activities to help them find healing. Melissa, her husband and their two younger kids were among 150 people at New Song’s recent bereavement event at Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix. “I like being here because these are the only other people who know how we feel,” she says. “And the support groups validate our emotions and feelings.”

New Song is Arizona’s first and largest child and family grief support program. All the services are provided at no cost. Since combining bereavement programs with Hospice of the Valley in 2009, New Song has served thousands of families, providing:

• Support groups for grieving children, teens, young adults, and adult caregivers.

• Support groups for grandparents, parents, and siblings who are grieving the death of a child.

• A family support group for Spanish-speaking families.

• Pediatric support and counseling for families caring for a child who is medically fragile or has a life-limiting illness.

• Day camps for siblings of children living with complex medical needs.

• Fun trips to family-friendly places like Butterfly Wonderland or the movies.

“Our mission is to provide comprehensive grief education and support to help families heal after a traumatic loss,” says Lisa Schmitt Betcher, executive director of the nonprofit program. “We recognize that children express grief quite differently than adults, more likely through behavior than words.”

Within age-specific grief support groups, New Song creates a safe space for youngsters to enjoy art, play, journaling, and other forms of expression. Adults attend their own support groups to learn how to help children process grief in a healthy way — and to learn how to help themselves cope with loss.

At the park gathering, the McMullins wore matching gray shirts with the name “William” printed in big, bold letters and three words below it: “brave, strong, superhero.” Lauren and Chris McMullin were referred to New Song after their 7-year-old died in April. The couple also have an 11-year-old, Owen, and a 4-year-old, Arthur.

Erica Schwartz, a New Song pediatric bereavement and family support counselor, sees the oldest boy one-on-one. “I feel incredibly lucky that I get to do that,” she says, standing near a table covered with “blugs” — a blanket and a hug.

“Owen looks forward to her visit every time,” Lauren says.

After bonding over special arts and crafts, all the families formed a large circle. One by one, they shared the names of their loved ones — Gloria, William, Isaiah, Landon … and many more. Then five white doves were released one at a time — symbolizing grief, courage, memories, love, and hope.

As all remaining doves were set free, New Song Clinical Director Jill Lovill reminded the families that everyone’s journey is unique. “As individuals, we grieve; as a community, we heal. May we each find our paths towards healing in the days ahead.”

BECOME A NEW SONG VOLUNTEER!

What a rewarding way to make a difference in the lives of families in the community. Join a dedicated team of trained volunteers who help lead grief support groups in central and north Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Avondale.

Volunteer training is in January at Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix.

Dates are:

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sat., Jan. 21

5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tues., Jan. 24

5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thurs., Jan. 26

Visit hov.org/volunteer/new-song to apply or call 480-951-8985 or email info@newsongcenter.org for more information.

Visit newsongcenter.org to learn more about the program.

Callie Carpenter (left), Julie Lazzara and Mark D’Aprile attended New Song Center’s bereavement event at the park in honor of 4-year-old Landon D’Aprile.

City News

The Maricopa County Home & Garden Show Returns to the Valley

Improve your green thumb, shop DIY projects, and celebrate 30 years of home shows in the Valley.

THE MARICOPA COUNTY HOME & GARDEN SHOW, THE LARGEST HOME SHOW IN THE SOUTHWEST, RETURNS TO THE ARIZONA STATE FAIRGROUNDS, 1826 W. MCDOWELL RD., PHOENIX, ON FRI., JAN. 13 THROUGH SUN., JAN. 15, FOR THEIR 30TH YEAR. Support Arizona businesses and enjoy sampling delicious food and beverages at Taste the Desert. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the outdoor garden atmosphere and walk away with culinary knowledge from local vendors.

“The new year brings opportunity for renewal and improvement. This show gives attendees an opportunity to feel educated about any item they take home,” says Katie Jones, Maricopa County Home Show manager. “We’re thrilled to celebrate our 30th anniversary of bringing the Home Show to the Valley and hope to provide endless inspiration for your home in 2023.”

Among the hundreds of home improvement, design and landscaping products, and services offered are the following unique show attractions and seminars that are included free with admission:

Taste the Desert: A hands-on culinary education and tasting with local food & beverage experts and aficionados! Daily seminars on wine pairing, coffee roasting and brewing, Kombucha, teas, mastering flavor profiles, and more!

Greenhouse: Wander through a stunning assortment of house plants, cacti, succulents, exotic plants, pottery, terrariums, trees, soil, supplies, and décor.

Handmade Headquarters: Sign up for free make-and-

take crafts, including customized candles, silk flower arrangements, peyote stich bracelets, and more.

DIY Terrariums: Create your own eye-catching terrarium to bring home. Select your plant and fillers, and make a beautiful, customized space for your new house plant.

DIY Bonsai: Receive an introduction to the art of bonsai: choose your juniper tree, learn potting, pruning, basic styling techniques, wiring, and aftercare. The class comes with a terra cotta bonsai pot, pruners, and your own little book of bonsai to take home.

House Plant 101: Leave with the knowledge to grow healthy house plants that will thrive all year long

Take a dive into water filtration and learn about how different systems work

Discover tips to creating delicious meals on your next camping trip

Learn how to install your own turf

Vacation Cabin: Stop by and tour a “move-in ready” high end vacation cabin, available for rent in Flagstaff. This beautiful, modern home has everything you need for a comfortable, relaxing getaway in the mountains.

Ask a Master Gardener: The University of Arizona Master Gardeners are highly trained experts in everything from vegetable gardens to trees to soil prep. Watch and learn as they discuss and demonstrate the basics of gardening, and how to maximize your space. Discover how to prep your garden for an early spring

harvest, what and when to plant to be a successful desert gardener, and how to get the most from your citrus trees.

Exotic plants: Explore a local plant shop’s offering of exotic plants, terrariums, succulents, and house plants. Whether you have a green thumb, or you can barely remember to water your plants, this knowledgeable team will help you find the perfect bit of greenery to thrive in your home and brighten up any corner or entryway.

For more information about the Maricopa County Home & Garden Show, call 602-485-1691 or visit mchomeshows.com.

Gather 4 Games: A Place to Play and Connect with People

By Shay Moser Photos courtesy of Gather 4 Games

WHEN GATHER 4 GAMES CAME TO UNION HILLS VILLAGE IN PHOENIX IN OCTOBER 2021, THE CITY GOT ITS FIRST DEDICATED FAMILY-FRIENDLY BOARD GAME LOUNGE.

“What the heck is a board game lounge?” you’re probably asking.

Gather 4 Games owners Felix and Aimee Arenas say the family-owned and operated board game lounge offers visitors a social setting to play one or more of 300 games from its growing in-store library. But instead of Frogger and Mario Kart arcade games, for instance, you choose from board games like Ticket to Ride, Splendor, Catan, and Root. There are also popular role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons, Traveller, and Pathfinder. A few card games include lMagic: The Gathering, Pokemon, and Yu-GiOh.

“Everyone is welcome at Gather 4 Games,” says Aimee. “People of all ages come to enjoy a game. Some live in the area, and others stop by during their visit to Phoenix.”

Gather 4 Games also has an on-site snack bar with candy, chips, cookies, a variety of heat-and-eat snacks, and Coke beverages. Plus, there are many board games for purchase or to rent to play from home.

“While we have a retail section for customers to purchase games and accessories, our main focus is on providing a space to play,” explains Felix.

GOALS OF GATHER 4 GAMES

Their love of family, friends, and board games motivated Felix and Aimee to explore a lounge that brought them all together.

“As our little family grew, so did the expense of having a nice evening out,” Felix explains. “We discovered it was a much better investment to purchase a board game that we could enjoy again and again rather than spending about the same amount for our family to see a movie once.”

The third reason, and the one Felix says was the deciding factor that inspired opening Gather 4 Games, was the COVID-19 shutdown.

“There was such an abrupt change in how we were able to interact socially and communicate with one another,” he explains. “The pandemic had a huge effect on us all. The news reports about long-term negative effects on social development and mental health because of the shutdown were alarming.”

Once things started to open back up, Felix and Aimee agreed it was a great time to establish a safe and friendly place for people to gather and reconnect.

“Board games, card games, and role-playing games offer players a chance to interact in person, but also help build skills needed for social interaction and personal confidence,” says Aimee. “Having a neutral place to gather also takes the pressure off making new friendships for customers still feeling the effects of the shutdown.”

How does the board game lounge work?

Gather 4 Games offers a table fee of $5 per seat for all-day play. Customers can play as many games as they can want during their visit.

People can bring in a group of friends to play with, come in with their family, or visit by themselves to find a group to join.

“It’s a great way to meet new friends and enjoy a game,” says Aimee.

Additionally, Gather 4 Games has active groups for Dungeons & Dragons on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at 5 p.m., and alternating weeks offer campaigns geared to ages 12 to 17 and adults.

NEW YEAR, NEW GAMES

“We’re excited to grow our community by offering a larger space to play so more groups can meet without feeling crowded,” says Aimee.

Gather 4 Games is nearly tripling its available table space, including two additional restrooms. The larger space will also make room for Warhammer, new board games, events, and workshops to help customers level up their gameplay, and an expanded retail area for customers interested in purchasing games, miniatures, paints, and game accessories.

While many businesses closed after the COVID-19 lockdown, Gather 4 Games is not going anywhere. “We’re excited about getting a permanent sign in the new year,” says Aimee.

You can play at 18631 N. 19th Ave. and learn more at gather4games.com.

Inspiring Teens Provide Support to Peers Dealing with Dating Violence, Abuse

By Amy Wolff Photos courtesy of BLOOM365

TEEN DATING VIOLENCE STATISTICS ARE STAGGERING. According to a 2018 Centers for Disease Control study one in 11 females, one in 15 males, and one in four LGBTQ+ high school students have experienced physical dating violence in the last year. And roughly one in nine females, one in 36 males, and one in three LGBTQ+ high school students have experienced sexual dating violence.

For Valley nonprofit group BLOOM365, stopping abuse at the root of the problem and preventing dating and domestic violence before it begins, with a special focus on 11 to 24-year-olds, is the ultimate mission.

One of the most unique things about BLOOM365 is its Peer Advocate program. It includes roughly 40 local high school and college students who are trained to recognize the signs of abuse, respond appropriately, and reframe conversations and actions to cultivate a culture of safety, empathy, respect, and consent.

Harshitha Ram, a sophomore at Pinnacle High School, became a peer advocate to be part of something bigger

and help create meaningful change in the lives of her fellow students.

“The work we do at BLOOM365 is something I am very passionate about, and I strongly believe in ending the cycle of abuse in my generation,” she says. “Through the peer advocacy program, I’ve learned how to create an impact within my school and community.

BLOOM365 educates young people on healthy versus unhealthy relationships and helps build skills to avoid controlling, abusive, and violent behaviors both now and later in life. The organization also provides trauma-informed emotional support, counseling, and safety services to enhance healing and well-being for young people who have been victimized.

“My work as a peer advocate is dear to my heart because it means that I can make a difference in the lives and experiences of every person around me,” says Clara McAdams, a junior at Barry Goldwater High School. “When a peer comes to me and discloses interpersonal violence or toxicity in their relationship, the first step I take is to listen. I give them an outlet to express their emotions, fears, and concerns. I

strive to alleviate the silence they have felt in their relationship.”

Peer advocates participate in an immersive and highly engaging training that educates young people ages 13 to 24 years old about the risk factors, red flags, and root causes of domestic, sexual, teen-dating violence, and bullying and how to prevent them. Through the program teens and young adults gain skills they can use to support peers who have experienced unhealthy, controlling, toxic, or abusive friendships or relationships. They also learn steps they can take to create a safe space for survivors to seek help and perpetrators to unlearn abusive behaviors.

“For me, my goal is to always be empathetic and try to understand other people’s perspectives and experiences,” says Nidhi Konanur, a sophomore at Mountain Ridge High School.

After completing the Peer Advocate Academy, participants can apply for a paid Lead Peer Advocate internship position to uproot abuse on their school campuses.

To learn more about the Peer Advocate program and BLOOM365, visit bloom365.org.

WELCOME

Located in north Phoenix, Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) serves a broad group of students in a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment.

Our students experience active and engaged learning, opportunities to enhance critical, creative and entrepreneurial thinking, and ways to positively impact today’s societal issues..

Whether you’re attending college for the first time, taking a class to transfer to a university, expanding your skill set, or wanting to explore a new interest, PVCC can help.

We provide an array of services to ensure your success, such as academic advising, career counseling, early college, financial aid (for those who are eligible), a learning support center, and Veteran resources.

What’s more, we are the only community college in Arizona recognized as one of the nation’s Top 150 Community Colleges by the Aspen Institute, the nation’s signature recognition for America’s community colleges.

Paradise awaits….contact us for a campus tour today!

Family Arizona State Parks and Trails Opens Registration for Spring Family Campout Program Learn to explore the great outdoors through camping adventures.

Photos courtesy of Arizona State Parks and Trails

Arizona Family Campout Program weekends are designed for families with kids that have little or no experience camping. Arizona State Parks and Trails staff introduce families to camping through hands-on activities. You will learn how to set up a tent, get an introduction to cooking outside, plus you will get to try some fun activities you can do while camping.

Registration is now open for this popular learning program that helps families of all ages enjoy a variety of outdoor activities during a weekend camping experience.

Register now for campout dates starting in March. Events sell out quickly, so early registration is encouraged. The Family Campout Program teaches

families the basics of tent camping, as well as various outdoor activities such as kayaking, archery, geocaching, astronomy, and more! Plus, Arizona State Parks and Trails provides the equipment, including tents! Each event also includes a service project to teach conservation and preservation at the park. This is an exciting experience for kids to discover the joy of time spent outside.

New this year is a weekend at Alamo Lake State Park, where families will learn camping, outdoor meal prep, and fishing at this popular destination. Families who are interesting in learning more about reeling in a big one will gain fishing knowledge and experience.

Family Campouts offer valuable lessons to any family interested in learning more about the outdoors for just $90 for a family of four. Children must be over 5 years

old. Families can register for one event per season. The activities vary depending on the park, participant ages, and weather conditions, but all guarantee a fantastic outdoor adventure.

• March 11 – 12: Alamo Lake State Park, Wenden

• March 18 – 19: Catalina State Park, Tucson

• April 1 – 2: Patagonia Lake State Park, Patagonia

• April 8 – 9: Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, Show Low

• April 22 – 23: Red Rock State Park, Sedona

• May 6 – 7: River Island State Park, Parker

• May 20 – 21: Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood

• June 3 – 4: Lyman Lake State Park, St. Johns

To learn more about the program, see reviews from previous families, and register for a spring date, visit azstateparks.com/family.

Learning to build a campfire during a weekend campout.

avoid the pitfalls of construction and have the best swimming pool possible.”

What’s the pool process?

Morris says whether people inquire about a new pool, maintenance, and repair, or adding features, there’s a process.

“We sit down and consult with the client to develop an overall plan; that could be a two-week plan, a two-month plan, or a two-year plan,” says Morris. “The idea is to build the things that give the most of what they need and desire but give them a plan for anything they can’t get right now; those are the hopes and dreams stuff we can add in the future. When we finish, we want to make sure we put the right package together for any budget. I tell every customer that their only limitations are their imagination and budget, and I have no limitations to my imagination.”

Breaking down pool prices

Morris recommends not skimping on the foundational pieces, such as the plumbing and quality of pumps and other materials. He says people can save on the pool design and add-ons.

“A lot of pool companies want to get in and get out, and they think that by giving the customer the lowest price they’re doing them a service, but they’re not,” says Morris. “That’s what I preach against every day. We’re not the lowest or most expensive, but when we’re done, we’re the fairest as far as the product the customer gets, and our quality is second to none.”

When it comes to financing, Morris advises there are several home improvement-specific lenders especially suited for projects — from $5,000 to $200,000. “The key is to find the right lender that most directly fits your budget, project type, and payment needs,” Morris encourages. “We have multiple lenders and great relationships to make that happen.”

New, update, addition, or resurface?

While Morris built the business refurbishing and upgrading aging backyard pools, We Fix Ugly Pools® specializes in custom and in-ground pools, lap pools, plunge pools, and zero-edge pools. Exotic waterfalls

and fountains, underground caves and grottos, outdoor kitchens and structures, and spas and hot tubs are also on the company’s list of additional features from which customers can choose.

“There are a lot of good reasons to update a backyard pool,” says Morris.

A pool represents a considerable investment, so upgrading it adds value. Restoring or remodeling it can also help save on energy bills, swapping out old and outdated equipment and technology for new.

“Energy-saving technologies are coming out every year that can help pool owners save money,” Morris explains. “Most people choose to remodel because the pool is old and in need of significant repairs. Other people opt to renovate their pools to fix smaller problems, install new features, and update the style.”

Concrete pools need resurfacing every 10 to 15 years because harsh weather, acid washing, and age cause chips and cracks to appear on the pool’s surface. Although many home improvement stores offer do-ityourself pool resurfacing kits, Morris says, they’re good for only pools with minimal damage or small patching.

“If a pool has extensive damage, it’s best to call a licensed, bonded, and insured expert,” explains Morris. “Don’t fall into a trap with an unlicensed or inexperienced company just because the price is appealing. You can do it once and pay once or pay twice.”

When asked about the best time of year to renovate or build, Morris explains. “Winter is the best time to install a new pool or renovate one in preparation for the swimming season ahead. The last thing you want to be doing on a hot summer day is thinking about the pool you could have had.”

To learn more about Brian Morris and his company, visit the We Fix Ugly Pools® website at wefixuglypools. com or call 602-253-4499. Send questions about an ugly pool to info@wefixuglypools.com.

This content is sponsored by We Fix Ugly Pools®.

Epic Family Fun pass

collector cars, the Arizona Concours d’Elegance is a celebration of automotive design, supporting the arts and local artists. Info: arizonaconcours.com

THE SIMON & GARFUNKEL STORY

When: Jan. 27 & 28

Where: The Orpheum Theater, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix What: The Simon & Garfunkel Story is an immersive concertstyle production that chronicles the amazing journey shared by the folk-rock duo, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. Portrayed by acclaimed performers, the show features state-of-the-art projections along with original film footage and a full live band performing all the hits including “Mrs. Robinson,” “Cecilia,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Homeward Bound,” and many more. Info: pccticketing.com

ARIZONA WINE FESTIVAL

What: The “best of the best” will be poured at the annual Arizona Wine Festival. The region’s top vineyards will again be sending their emissaries to Phoenix Heritage Square for the sampling pleasure of city folk who haven’t made it out to our state’s blossoming wine country lately. Live music will also be on tap featuring the Motown sounds of Sandra Bassett on Saturday. Info: experiencearizonawine.com

6TH ANNUAL DOGGIE STREEET FESTIVAL

When: Jan. 28

Where: Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix What: Enjoy this not-to-be missed companion animal adopt-a-thon and fun celebration of furry best friends. Check out fantastic pet products and services, yummy eats, vet tips, music, auction prizes, and much more. Bring your friendly dog. Info: doggiestreetfestival.org

STREET EATS FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL

When: Where:

Pima Rd., Scottsdale

What: Over 40 food trucks will sell all types of food, the event will include live music, lawn games, eating contests, a local vendor marketplace, a free kids’ zone, and more. Info: saltriverfields.com

ON DECK: FEBRUARY

ARIZONA BALLOON CLASSIC

When: Feb. 3 – Feb. 5

Where: Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear

What: Dozens of hot air balloons will liftoff at the Goodyear Ballpark, the spring training home of the Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds. The Arizona Balloon Classic, as the only continuous hot air balloon race and festival in the Phoenix metro area, offers wholesome family fun for one spectacular weekend, and you won’t want to miss it. Info: abcfest.com

CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 26 SUDOKU ANSWER from page 27

Entertainment Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates

By Tony Beal

ON

NETFLIX

Guillermo del Toro has a habit of bringing the darkness out of fairy tales but still has the beauty in the stories. In stop motion, he finds that balance in the story of “Pinocchio,” the boy that’s trying to be real and seeing his struggles, while the crimes of World War II are represented in a mature way that’s still appropriate for children. Death and found family are also themes. David Bradley, Ewan McGregor, and Gregory Mann breathe life into the characters, and the animation is some of the most impressive of any in recent years. Of course, younger viewers should have some caution, but there’s enough for anyone to fall in love with this incarnation.

about consumerism, death, authority, and more. Yet, none of it is like Noah Baumbach is analyzing it but rather berating you after reading a textbook. None of the characters speak or act like real humans, which results in a waste of the extraordinary cast. The film’s attempts at scale also falter with the ghastly colors and Danny Elfman’s overbearing score, and that’s before we get into one of the most outlandish and ridiculous third acts of any film in recent memory. The production design is quite good, however; you can tell a lot of care went into that.

ON APPLE TV+

NEW RELEASES

January 6

• “M3GAN”

• “The Pale Blue Eye” (Netflix)

January 13

• “House Party”

• “A Man Called Otto”

• “Plane”

• “The Devil Conspiracy”

• “Skinamarink” (Limited)

January 20

• “Missing”

• “Alice, Darling”

• “A Snowy Day in Oakland”

• “The Son”

• “When You Finish Saving the World”

January 27

• “Close” (Limited)

“Sr.”

A portrait of the filmmaker Robert Downey Sr., told by his son Robert Downey Jr.

“Sr.” is probably the most expensive and high-profile home movie ever made. But there’s a tender nature to it, a sincere homage of a father from a son. It’s a good way to expose the public to Sr.’s work, while also showing how that served the relationship between the two. It’s not too in-depth, and you can’t help but feel that there’s more to show. But it’s still heartfelt enough to make it worthwhile viewing.

“White Noise”

A college professor’s normal life with his family is upended after an event wreaks havoc in their town.

Sometimes, there’s a movie that’s made by someone who clearly thinks they’re the smartest person in the room. This movie is a continuous series of rambles

“Emancipation”

Based on the true story of a man’s journey to freedom during the Civil War.

Making an action film out of a holocaust like slavery is a tough pitch and idea to crack, and “Emancipation” does not get to that. It’s a case of wanting your cake and eating it too, clearly understanding and grasping the nature of its subject but wanting to create tense and “epic” action set pieces akin to something like “The Revenant.” This film feels rather exploitative of its subject rather than a tribute due to how heavy it features pain and trauma. Its usage of a black and white color palette mixed with small colors is admirable, but doesn’t really fit the film and is rather fake looking given the time it’s set in. And, while you can tell the cast are all working their best to make the film work, it is in service of a misguided piece.

• “One Fine Morning” (Limited)

• “You People” (Netflix)

• “Shotgun Wedding” (Amazon Prime)

Guillermo del Toro’s “Pinocchio”

A retelling of the classic tale in Italy during World War II.

THE OTHER Q BAR & GRILL

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PHONE: 623-580-0588

CUISINE TYPE: American

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MESQUITE FRESH STREET MEX

ADDRESS: 1730 W. Happy Valley Rd., Phoenix PHONE: 623-248-0187

CUISINE TYPE: Fresh Street Mex

Cool off this summer with the hottest street Mexican food in Phoenix! Try some award-winning street tacos, killer burritos, packed bowls, big quesadillas, frescas, and tasty cinnamon churro chips. All our meats are grilled fresh daily, over open flames from real mesquite wood, to give that true street flavor. Grab a breakfast burrito and get your day started right!

• Online ordering and carryout • Open 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Every Day

Bites

GEORGE’S FAMOUS GYROS & PASTA

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!

GeorgesPhx.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.

Y our Guide to Local Dining

PitaJungle.com