North Phoenix News, March 2023

Going Solar? Choose the Independent, Locally-Owned Company With Eight Years in Business

By Erick O’Donnell

This month, we at SunSolar Solutions are celebrating the eighth anniversary of our company’s founding in 2015. Since then, we’ve helped over 9,000 Arizona homeowners go solar. The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but it’s been full of excitement. To mark this occasion, I sat down with Val Berechet, a co-founder and CEO. We looked back on eight years of challenges overcome and lessons learned.

As a milestone, what does this anniversary mean to you?

It shows stability; it shows that we’re here to stay. We’ve made it through the earlier stumbling blocks of building a business and sustaining a business, so that gives us confidence. And I think it gives the community confidence that, eight years later, we’re still here going strong. And we’re actually in growth mode. We’re looking to expand. We’ve been doing very well in Arizona. We’ve established a name for ourselves and established a certain credibility in the industry. Now, we’re able to take that to new markets.

As an entrepreneur in a very new industry, you must have come across some unforeseen obstacles. Can you tell me about those? Have you learned any valuable lessons from overcoming them?

There’s been no lack of obstacles. The industry is known for this—they call it “the solar coaster” because it just seems there’s constant ups and downs in this business. At the end of the day, we’re doing construction. There are a lot of construction companies, but solar is also tied into the utility side of things. So you’ve got a whole other layer of bureaucracy; not only do you have to deal with the cities—the permitting, the plans, and the building code, which is always changing—but you’re also dealing with the utility side. If it’s not one of them making

changes, it’s the other. It seems as though it’s never really calm.

We started out as a sales company partnered with an installer, and things weren’t as volatile back then. But then, as solar became more popular, the utility companies looked to make changes, introducing more restrictions and making it harder for homeowners to go solar. Sometimes people want to wait, but we’ve seen that the opposite approach is wisest; the longer you wait, the more things change in favor of the utility companies.

We started off eight years ago, but 2020 is when we brought everything in-house. That certainly brought a lot of challenges, some of which we had seen coming but many of which we hadn’t. That was the year the pandemic struck, which made staffing and sales difficult. That subsided, and then we had to deal with tariffs on imported solar panels from China. We had never used nor do we use products made in China today, but the uncertainty around tariffs and taxes affected the entire industry, causing prices to skyrocket.

Then that subsided, but then other supplychain problems arose, partly because of Covid’s effect on the workforce. Small parts, such as an electrical subpanel or a certain kind of circuit breaker, became hard to come by. This caused a lot of delays in projects, which understandably frustrated many of our customers, so we were really stuck between a rock and a hard place. That really caused a lot of stress for everybody.

That has started to subside, but the latest thing is inflation. That’s now causing an increase in prices, which makes sales more difficult.

There has been challenge after challenge after challenge, but—going back to the original question about the eight years—I think what it has shown is that we have

persevered through it all. At the office, we sometimes joke about all the challenges, saying: “You know, when things go back to normal, we’re going to be bored!”

SunSolar Solutions stands out for its independence. It’s privately owned and fully integrated, handling every step in the sales-and-installation process. Did you and your partners deliberately decide to stay independent?

Yes, that was certainly a deliberate decision we came to over time. We started off as a sales company with an installation partner. That was good for a while, but as both businesses progressed, we began to have a different vision from what our partner had in mind. We wanted to really control the customer experience, whereas our partner’s priority was growth. A focus on growth tends to come with downsides. If the sales outgrow the operation, it’s great at first—you have all this stuff going on—but then you have this problem snowball on the operations side that just keeps getting bigger and bigger. So we wanted to focus more on organic growth, with a slower approach to make sure that everything stays balanced. That was definitely one of the reasons why we wanted to go our own way instead of continuing to partner with another company: that way we could make sure that our priorities would not get watered down.

A major part of SunSolar’s success comes from its outstanding online reviews. How have you managed to get consistently positive feedback from customers?

It really goes to our culture. Often we’ll stop and ask ourselves: “Hey, what do we stand for? What is our mission here at SunSolar?” And the answer has consistently been to create an excellent experience for the customer. A common pain point in this industry is a failure to communicate with customers. That concept seems simple, but

putting it into practice isn’t. So we make sure to touch base with our customers every single week. Even if we’re waiting on the city to approve a permit, we still call to say: “Hi, we’re just calling to touch base with you, Mr. or Mrs. Homeowner. We’re still waiting on the city. If you have any questions, definitely reach out to us.”

We have also deliberately decided against complete automation. A popular trend in many industries is to automate all customer contact. Of course, we use technology to be as efficient as possible, but we combine that with human interaction. We always ask our customers how they want to be updated— via email, text, or phone call. A lot of people love text messages, so we’ll contact them that way to update them about all the little developments. But for the big milestones in the project timeline, we’ll give them a phone call. That really helps with the process of keeping them informed, and that is one of the top things we see in our reviews. We see a lot of positive reviews, and almost everybody mentions how excellent the communication was; they always knew what was going on with the project.

In addition, we assign an individual—a “project specialist”—to each customer. That means you only have one point of contact throughout your whole project. They’re calling you, and you’re calling them with any questions. So when somebody calls in, we don’t need to look up your account. These projects take weeks, if not a few months sometimes, so you’re really getting to know that person on a personal level, which makes it more personal. It’s not just transactional. You’re not just the next item on the conveyor belt.

As always, the experienced professionals at SUNSOLAR Solutions are ready to help you take control of your family’s energy future. Call us today at 623-562-9009 to have a design prepared for your home free of charge.

CONNECT WITH

NORTH PHOENIX NEWS

Get In Touch: 2550 W. Union Hills Drive, Ste. 350-9433

Phoenix, AZ 85027

888-313-7916

facebook.com/NorthPhoenixNews

Advertising and Submissions: Contact the marketing department by phone at 888-313-7916 or email us at advertising@egpublishing.com.

Press release submissions and event listings are always welcomed at news@egpublishing.com.

Staff:

EG Publishing is a local, family-owned company.

Natasha & Brian Beal / Publishers

Sondra Barr / Editor

Shannon Carrillo / Production & Design

Erica Odello / Ad Design

Notes:

This publication is offered free of charge in an effort to keep our neighbors informed, as well as to support the local business owners who make up our community. Without their support, this publication would not exist. Please support their business, and let them know you saw them in this newspaper. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us. myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

411: The Latest Local News You Need to Know

ANTHEM RESIDENTS - ROCK THE LOCAL VOTE

to know how to crochet to be able to help, as there are many different jobs. This is a great opportunity to earn community service hours. Links to sign up for monthly events can be found on the website calendar at youthfortroops.org.

FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE SHOPS AT NORTERRA

Please take time to vote in the Anthem Parkside Community Association (APCA) and Anthem Community Council (ACC) Board of Directors elections. You can easily vote via the eVoting portal. This is the online election system that is used to tabulate votes. All voting for Parkside candidates will need to be submitted through the eVoting platform. Voting ends on March 10 at midnight.

If you did not receive a ballot notification card, please contact the APCA office at 623-742-4563 or email staff@anthemparkside.org.

PLASTIC MATS FOR HOMELESS VETERANS EVENT

Join Youth for Troops to make plastic mats for homeless veterans at Anthem Civic Building, 3701 W. Anthem Way, on Tues., March 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. All ages are welcome to help sort bags, cut bags, make plarn balls, and crochet plastic mats. You do not have

Start your engines, The Shops at Norterra is crankin’ out the classics with Nancy Perry Productions. On March 3 and April 7 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., attend a free auto show and enjoy happy hour deals and live music. All makes and models are welcome and will be directed to park together. First come, first served. Free entry.

PROMUSICA WANTS YOUR SAGUARO CACTUS PHOTOS

In celebration of its 20th Anniversary season, ProMusica Arizona has commissioned and will perform the world premiere of “Saguaro Song,” an original work for chorale and orchestra. The six-movement piece was written by acclaimed Arizona composer, Craig Bohmler, well-known for Arizona Opera’s Riders of the Purple Sage, and award-winning lyricist, Marion Adler. The iconic Saguaro cactus is used as a metaphor for the seasons of life in “Saguaro Song,” which will be performed during ProMusica Arizona’s concerts on April 1 and 2.

ProMusica Arizona is inviting photographers and artists to submit high resolution photos of Saguaros or photos of artworks featuring Saguaros to be included

in a slideshow that will accompany the performances. To serve as inspiration, photographers and artists can read the texts of “Saguaro Song” by going to ProMusica Arizona’s homepage at pmaz.org. ProMusica Arizona is looking for photos and artworks that depict the various movements of the piece, and proper credit will be given to photographers and artists whose works are chosen to be in the slideshow.

Send Saguaro photos or photos of Saguaro artworks to info@pmaz.org by March 10. To learn more about ProMusica Arizona’s 20th Anniversary Celebration, go to pmaz.org.

PopStroke To Open in March

Golf and casual dining concept merges a dynamic, technologically advanced competitive golf environment.

Photos courtesy of PopStroke

POPSTROKE, A GOLF AND CASUAL DINING CONCEPT MERGING A DYNAMIC, TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED COMPETITIVE GOLF ENVIRONMENT WITH FOOD AND BEVERAGE, IS OPENING THIS MONTH AT WESTGATE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT, 9480 W. HANNA DR.

The innovative concept features two 18hole putting courses designed by Tiger Woods’ TGR Design. The amenities include a full-service open-air restaurant, rooftop bar, game area, playground, private event space, and ice cream parlor.

Founded by former Wall Street Executive

Greg Bartoli, in just four short years

PopStroke has become the leading putting entertainment experience in golf. With five locations in Florida, one in Houston, Texas, the Glendale location, and one under construction in Scottsdale, the company has an aggressive growth strategy.

PopStroke aims to introduce a wider audience to the game in a more dynamic, affordable, and less intimidating way. The goal is to foster indelible experiences for guests of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds by bringing friends and families together to enjoy the game of golf.

To learn more, visit popstroke.com.

City News

The 33rd Annual Copperstate 1000 Returns to Arizona

The finest vintage automobiles will grace 1,000 miles of the state’s scenic highways during the four-day event. Photos courtesy of Copperstate 1000

THE 33RD ANNUAL BELL LEXUS NORTH SCOTTSDALE COPPERSTATE 1000, PRESENTED BY THE MEN’S ARTS COUNCIL, RETURNS TO ARIZONA IN APRIL 2023 It is one of North America's most celebrated vintage car road rallies, showcasing some of the finest working examples of vintage, sports, racing, classic, and grand touring automobiles manufactured before the 1974 model year.

“Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply looking for family entertainment, you won't want to miss this event. There is absolutely nothing like it,” says Men’s Arts Council President Joel Coen. “The cars that participate in this event come from around the world and many have a multi-million-dollar price tag.”

Every year, a new route traverses 1,000 miles of beautiful desert terrain, river verdant valley, and alpine landscape across Arizona and beyond. Approximately

90 vintage automobiles participate, with drivers and co-drivers from the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. The connections created at these rallies often blossom into lifetime friendships, and many attendees come back year after year.

The Copperstate 1000 has always boasted very notable cars including a 1952 Cunningham C2 Lemans race car, a 1953 Studebaker Commander, a 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Boano, a 1960 Aston Martin DB4, a 1964 Alfa Romeo TZ1 Zagato, a 1965 Shelby Cobra, and a 1978 Porsche 911 Carrera RS.

“We have been running this event since 1990 in support of the Phoenix Art Museum, and it has always been a great success,” says Copperstate 1000 Chairman Doug Hodges. “We have devoted fanatics who have supported us for years, and we also see new enthusiasts participating in the event every year, so we are extremely interested to see the crowd that turns up this year.”

Bell Lexus North Scottsdale has been the title sponsor of the Copperstate 1000 for over 20 years and plays an intricate role in the rally’s success. The luxury car dealer lends the special event five brand new vehicles if a rally car is not able to finish.

The public and fans of all ages can view the cars participating in the Copperstate 1000 before they depart for their journey at the Copperstate send-off event. It takes place at Tempe Diablo Stadium on Sun., April 16 beginning at 7:30 a.m. where the vehicles are lined up around the outfield and announced as they begin to depart at 10 a.m. There will also be a local car show in the West lot of the stadium starting at 7:30 a.m. Local car enthusiasts are encouraged to bring their cars for display in the West lot. Coffee and donuts will also be available for purchase in the West parking lot.

The 33rd Annual Copperstate 1000 runs from Sun., April 16 through Wed., April 19.. For more information, visit mensartscouncil.com/copperstate-1000/.

City News Phoenix Film Festival is Back on the Big Screen

THE 23RD ANNUAL PHOENIX FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS MARCH 23 THROUGH APRIL 2 AT HARKINS SCOTTSDALE 101 THEATRE, 7000 E. MAYO BLVD.

The Phoenix Film Festival started in 2000 by three local filmmakers to get their films some exposure in their hometown. Twenty-three years and thousands of movies later, the Phoenix Film Foundation has grown from a small exhibition to a multi-day celebration of film with over 200 films, filmmaking seminars, free panel discussions, parties, and student workshops.

This year promises to be the best yet, says Executive Director Jason Carney. He’s been with the Phoenix Film Festival for 18 years, starting out as a volunteer. “I had no idea what a film festival was,” says Carney, who after volunteering for five years left his healthcare management job to work for the film festival for free for six months before a full-time position became available.

“Every year we shake things up and this year is no different, says Carney. New this year is a selection of films from Iranian women directors. “We’re also bringing back our high school student education programs, which are three different days of the festival with film classes where students learn how to write a script, produce a film, and work with professional directors.”

“We’re running three to seven screens for 11 days with 270 screenings throughout those days,” says Carney.

Sixty to 70% of screenings have a filmmaker in attendance and oftentimes there’s a Q&A with the filmmaker afterward, which is a unique element.

Over 900 films from around the world are submitted to the festival for review. The ones that make the cut are viewed by a committee at least twice before being accepted.

Four significant documentaries are being shown this year. These include “Still,” a movie about actor Michael J. Fox, one about singer Little Richard, one on basketball player Stephen Curry, and one Carney is particularly excited about, “Judy Blume Forever,” that chronicles the life of Judy Blume.

The Phoenix Film Festival is a program under the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization Phoenix Film

Foundation. Their mission is to support and develop the artistic appreciation, educational opportunities, and growth of independent film within Arizona. The Foundation’s primary functions through its programs are to promote the exhibition of independent films and conduct educational programs that teach the art of filmmaking.

Tickets and additional details are available at phoenixfilmfestival.com.

“Phoenix Lights” Shine Again

CELEBRATE THE 26TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HISTORIC AND STILL UNEXPLAINED 1997 ARIZONA MASS UFO EVENT AT THE ANNUAL COMMUNITY SCREENING OF THE AWARD-WINNING “PHOENIX LIGHTS” DOCUMENTARY ON MARCH 19 FROM 1 P.M. TO 5 P.M. AT SCOTTSDALE HARKINS SHEA 14 CINEMA, 7354 E. SHEA BLVD.

Included with the screening are special guest speakers, Alice Cooper and Kurt Russell, who will offer virtual first-hand witness reports, a question-and-answer session hosted by Dr. Rebecca Hardcastle Wright, and book signings by Travis Walton and Dr. Lynne Kitei.

A Paradise Valley resident who was a key witness to the historic unexplained sightings that occurred in Arizona on March 13, 1997, Kitei is a physician and health educator who put aside her medical career to write a book and produce a movie on the event.

Reserved seats at www.harkins.com/movies/the-phoenix-lights/2023-03-19 or call 480-948-6555. For details and a movie trailer, visit thephoenixlights.net.

Annual screening of the award-winning documentary film includes guest speakers Alice Cooper and Kurt Russell.

City News Rodeo Scottsdale Kicks into High Gear

Annual March event held at WestWorld of Scottsdale Equidome.

Photos courtesy of Rodeo Scottsdale

RODEO SCOTTSDALE, ALSO KNOWN AS THE PARADA DEL SOL RODEO, IS OFFICIALLY SANCTIONED BY THE PROFESSIONAL RODEO COWBOYS ASSOCIATION (PRCA) AND IS ONE OF THE OLDEST RODEOS IN THE COUNTRY. The family-friendly event is packed with excitement, featuring bull riding, wrestling, calf roping, barrel racing, and more.

The 70th Annual Rodeo Scottsdale is March 9 through 12 at the WestWorld of Scottsdale Equidome, 16601 N. Pima Rd. On Thursday nights, enjoy an exclusive bull riding-only performance including professionals as well as up-and-coming future world champions. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday performances are dedicated to the eight events of professional rodeo. Each performance is, on average, two to three hours long.

Witness the champion athletes in the saddle bronc, bareback bronc, tie down roping, barrel racing, steer wrestling, breakaway roping, team roping, and, of course, bull riding every day! Get in some laughs and additional entertainment with the PRCA Specialty Acts and PRCA Rodeo Clown throughout the rodeo performance. Each rodeo performance begins with the National Anthem, with the American Flag graciously represented by the Bridwell Family Drill Team.

Rodeo is a sport that stands out from

others in today’s world. So many sports today exist solely for entertainment purposes. Rodeo, however, is derived from an actual lifestyle, with skills one uses in their everyday ranching responsibilities.

Rodeo dates to early ranching days, hundreds of years ago! As horses and cattle were being introduced to the western region of America in the 1800s, the cowboy era was born.

Breaking horses and catching cattle typically required the cowboys to have impressive horseback riding and roping skills. The ability to rope livestock quickly and accurately was necessary for livestock to receive medical care, to be branded, to be sold, and occasionally to avert danger.

Neighboring ranches would often have friendly contests against each other to see whose cowboys could complete the task at hand, the fastest and the most accurately. This is where the sport of rodeo’s roots trace back to!

Today, professional rodeo showcases the abilities of both animal athletes, and cowboys and cowgirls. With seven classic competitions — now eight, including the recently-added breakaway roping, the sport of rodeo consists of two categories: roughstock and timed events.

Rodeo Scottsdale’s ticket sales are 100% digital and contact free. Get tickets and information at rodeoscottsdale.com.

Charity Walk 4 Water Norterra Fundraiser Provides Clean Drinking Water for Students and Families in Need

Water 4 Kids International, a division of Hope 4 Kids International, a nonprofit working to provide clean water to children and families who are suffering through extreme poverty and disease, will host their signature Walk 4 Water Fundraiser on Sun., March 5, in partnership with Hope Church and Elevate Coffee Co.

Proceeds raised by Walk 4 Water Norterra will fund a safe water borehole in the remote village of Bilton Forest, Uganda. The well will be drilled next to Bilton Forest High School, where schooling is interrupted each day by the student’s two-mile trek to retrieve drinking water from a marsh.

A complimentary lunch will be provided by Butcher Block Catering, including live music and a gift basket raffle at Elevate Coffee Co., 2530 W Happy Valley Rd, Suite 1273, prior to the walk at 11:30 a.m. Walk 4 Water Norterra will begin at 1 p.m., where participants will walk a two-mile trail––the same distance Bilton Forest High School students must walk for water every day.

Walk 4 Water participants can walk this course as individuals or as a team and are encouraged to post their progress on social media and share the

impact with friends and family using the hashtag #W4WNORTERRA.

“Together we can empower the students and families, along with neighboring villages, to transform their lives through the life-saving gift of clean, safe water,” says Angie Simon, Hope 4 Kids International VP of International Development.

Clean water is one of the best ways to prevent diseases in remote villages in which a minor ailment could be fatal.

In addition to drilling deep water wells, Hope 4 Kids International also provides these communities with hygiene and sanitation education, as well as operation and maintenance training. When properly installed, these wells can last between 30 to 50 years with little to no maintenance.

Walk 4 Water fundraising supports the nonprofit’s international efforts to provide clean drinking water and deliver long-term solutions.

Walk 4 Water Norterra’s fundraising goal is $12,500. Registration is $25 for adults and $15 for youth under 13. To register for or donate to Walk for Water Norterra, visit w4ki.org/w4wnorterra.

Charity Phoenix Police Foundation Announces 3rd Annual Honor Walk/Run Event

The Phoenix Police Foundation is hosting the Third Annual Honor Walk/Run Event to recognize 41 Phoenix police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The event will take place the week of March 19.

Each fallen officer has a memorial marker in the location where they sacrificed their lives for the safety of the community. The Foundation provides a map disclosing the locations of the mile markers and encourages participants to stop by as many memorials as possible on their route.

The event has both walking and running options for a one-mile route and 5K route. Participants are encouraged to map a route that will take them by a memorial marker. While there, honor the fallen by taking a photo and sharing it in the race site's photo section and the Phoenix Police Foundation’s social media pages between March 19 to 25.

“This is event not only honors those who laid down their lives to serve our community, but also provides comfort to their families and reminds the

community what our officers risk every day when they go to work,” says Timothy Thomas, president of the Phoenix Police Foundation. “Our last two honor races have been extremely successful, and we hope to have even more people involved in this year’s event.”

Money raised from this year’s event will be used to construct an honor wall for each of the fallen officers in the lobby of the newly planned Phoenix Police Headquarters. Any remaining funds will help subsidize the unmet capital needs of the Phoenix Police Department, providing monetary assistance during crisis situations and helping fund future honor events.

Registration for the 2023 Honor Walk/ Run is $40. The last day to register is March 11. In addition to the money raised through registration fees, corporate sponsorships are integral to the event’s success. This year’s Honor Run/Walk presenting sponsor is Circle K Grand Canyon Division.

For more information about this event and the Phoenix Police Foundation, visit phoenixhonorrun.org.

Peace Of Mind & Relentless Representation

Zachary J. Thornley is a successful trial attorney in Phoenix Arizona. He spent years working for a large corporate defense firm. His experience was invaluable; however, he personally believes representation is more effective in a more personal environment where individual attention is on the client and not on the firm’s bottom dollar. Mr. Thornley is relentless when it comes to protecting your rights. He remains committed to each of his clients until there is a successful resolution.

Legal Practice Areas

Charity Wreaths Across America’s Mobile Education Exhibit will visit Anthem to Honor Veterans and Supporters

Photos courtesy of Youth for Troops

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA (WAA) IS THE ORGANIZATION MOST RECOGNIZED FOR PLACING OVER 2.7 MILLION VETERANS’ WREATHS AT OVER 3,700 LOCATIONS NATIONALLY AND ABROAD ON NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY.

However, the work to recognize our nation’s veterans, military families, and active duty servicemembers is a yearlong effort. WAA is proud to announce that as part of its yearlong mission to remember the fallen, honor those that serve and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom, its Mobile Education Exhibit (MEE) will make a stop in Anthem on March 27 to share this mission with the community. The stop will take place at Anthem Veterans Memorial, 41703 N Gavilan Peak Pkwy., from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

“The Mobile Education Exhibit provides the unique opportunity for communities to come together and share the stories of those who served and sacrificed. Through our partnership with the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, the exhibit also serves as an official ‘Welcome Home’ location for

our

nation’s Vietnam Veterans,” says Executive Director

Karen Worcester

The MEE achieves this goal by bringing the local community, veterans, active-duty military, and their families together through interactive exhibits, short films, and shared stories. The exhibit serves as a mobile museum, educating visitors about the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes, as well as serving as an official ‘welcome home’ station for our nation’s Vietnam Veterans.

When the MEE pulls into the area, all veterans, active-duty military, their families, and the local community members are invited and encouraged to visit, take a tour, and speak with WAA representatives and volunteers. They can also share more about the national nonprofit, and the work its volunteers do to support our heroes and their communities year-round.

You can sponsor a veteran’s wreath anytime to support the local WAA program at Anthem for $17 at wreathsacrossamerica.org/az0178. Each sponsorship goes toward a live, balsam wreath that will be placed on the headstone of an American hero to honor all veterans laid to rest on Sat,, Dec, 16, 2023, as part of National Wreaths Across America Day.

Bellinis and Brunch to Support Phoenix Cancer Support Network

Join the Phoenix Cancer Support Network (PCSN) on Sat., April 1 for Bellinis and Brunch, to help raise critical funding to continue to help patients and their families on their cancer journey. PCSN strives to provide any service that a client may need to make their cancer journey easier. Some of these services include transportation to medical appointments, meal support, housecleaning, lawn service, legal advice, in-home caring giving, childcare, bill paying assistance, and guidance from oncology physicians. Sponsors for the event include Chateau Luxe, ABF, and Arizona Center for Cancer Care.

PCSN was founded by Jenny Martin, MBA. Martin lost her sister Annie to

a rare pediatric cancer at the young age of 24. Since then, Martin has dedicated her career to the oncology space in an administrative capacity and currently serves as vice president of business development and marketing for Arizona Center for Cancer Care. She has learned both professionally and personally that everyday obstacles become overwhelming burdens for cancer patients. PCSN strives to alleviate as much of that burden as possible so cancer patients can focus on completing through their treatment.

The event starts at 10 a.m. at Chateau Luxe, 1175 E. Lone Cactus Dr. Tickets start at $120. For more information, visit pcsnetwork.org/events/bellinis-andbrunch-april-1st-2023.

Charity Coopstock 2023

Alice Cooper’s 25th annual rock & roll fundraising bash and golf classic are back.

Photos courtesy of Coopstock

Paradise Valley resident and legendary rocker Alice Cooper is holding his annual rock & roll fundraiser on April 2, followed by his annual Rock & Roll Golf Classic on April 3.

Joining Cooper at Cooperstock 2023 is fan favorite Tommy Thayer of KISS, Ed Roland of Collective Soul, Robin Zander of Cheap Trick, Dave Jenkins of Pablo Cruise, Chuck Garric of the Alice Cooper Band, and SIXWIRE, as well as teen performers for a groovy night under the stars with live/silent auctions and more––all to

benefit Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Centers in Mesa and Phoenix.

Held at the Las Sendas Golf Club, 7555 E. Eagle Crest Dr., Mesa, the event runs from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Ticket options include VIP (valet parking, table seat, dinner/drinks, etc.); Groovy Coopstock Chair (collectible Coopstock chair, premium seating); and Festival (lawn access, hamburgers, and hotdogs for sale––bring a lawn chair or blanket).

The following day is Cooper’s 25th Annual Rock & Roll Golf Classic, sponsored by Arrowhead BMW. Starting at 8 a.m., the event directly benefits Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Centers and brings together some of the biggest names in entertainment, sports, and community leaders, at Las Sendas Golf Club.

A faith-based organization, Solid Rock’s primary mission is to make an everlasting difference in the lives of teens by helping them meet their spiritual, economical, physical, and social needs in the community by offering a safe, engaging environment during non-school hours. The organization runs two teen centers, one located in

Phoenix at 13625 N. 32nd St., and one in Mesa at 122 N. Country Club Dr.

Maintaining “a teen’s worst enemy is too much time on their hands,” Solid Rock provides the music, arts, vocational programs, and fellowship that challenge teens to discover their passion through music, dance, video and sound production, self-expression, and creativity.

For more information on both fundraisers, visit alicecoopersolidrock.com/event/coopstock-alicecoopers-rock-roll-bash.

Education

ElevateEdAZ Expands to Deer Valley Unified School District

ElevateEdAZ is expanding into the Deer Valley Unified School District (DVUSD). ElevateEdAZ is focused on preparing students in the Greater Phoenix region for college and career by aligning education to workforce learning pathways to serve the needs of Arizona's leading industries. These efforts are aligned to help Valley business owners meet the growing workforce demand as more high-wage, high-demand employers expand in and relocate to Arizona.

"At Barry Goldwater High School one of our long-standing mantras has been to ‘Prepare students for life when they are 30 years old’,” says Anita Stulc, principal at Barry Goldwater High School. “We want to make an impact on the community, and we know we need to think beyond where students might work the year they graduate or what college they might attend. Community partners can open doors for students, and we are grateful to embark on this partnership with ElevateEdAZ. We cannot do it alone and community partners will help us take education at Goldwater to the next level."

Expanding ElevateEdAZ to DVUSD brings the number of participating schools up to 11 throughout the Greater Phoenix region. It will impact over 22,000 students and teachers through access to workbased learning engagements, job shadows, internships, externships, mock interviews, and more.

“We are excited about the ElevateEdAZ partnership with DVUSD to better prepare students for college and careers,” says Todd Sanders, president and CEO, Greater Phoenix Chamber. “This expansion will provide a greater reach in providing students opportunities to high-wage, high-demand pathways and opportunities to strengthen their skill sets for future careers.”

ElevateEdAZ is working with schools and school districts to increase the number of students completing high-wage, highdemand career pathways through stronger pathway articulation and career awareness activities. As well as increase attainment of industry-recognized credentials and early post-secondary credit by removing barriers to dual enrollment and incentivizing students and teachers for improved outcomes. They also want to provide more students with work-based learning experiences to apply academics through internships and job shadows and empower educators to reimagine classroom learning through educator externships where teachers learn skill sets industry leaders are seeking in job candidates and can access pathways and support systems to integrate these skills into their curriculum.

Adding DVUSD to the lineup supports those goals and will allow more students to access opportunities provided by ElevateEdAZ. To learn more, visit elevateedaz.com.

Precision Medicine Program Opens Stand-Alone Certification Applications

Midwestern University’s College of Graduate Studies is now offering a stand-alone PostGraduate Certificate Program in Precision Medicine for currently practicing clinicians and professionals in the biological sciences.

The Precision Medicine Program was originally established as a dual-degree/dual-track program for students in all healthcare professions, offering either a Master of Science in Precision Medicine or a Post-Graduate Certificate in Precision Medicine. The new stand-alone option opens the field of study to practicing clinicians with graduate-level healthcare degrees or working professionals with graduatelevel biological or biomedical sciences degrees, enabling them to augment their skills and knowledge to include current and practical knowledge of fundamental areas of genetics, genomics, biomarkers, and bioinformatics. Like the dual-degree/dual-track program, the stand-alone Post-Graduate Certificate Program is available in a flexible online format,

which is well-suited to the busy schedules of working professionals. Alumni from Midwestern’s healthcare professional programs are especially invited to apply.

Precision medicine is an emerging approach for personalizing disease treatment and prevention strategies that considers individual variability in genes, environment, and lifestyle for each person. Precision medicine uses this detailed information, paired with a patient’s health history, to create customized care and treatment plans. This approach is already in use in treating diseases such as cancer, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and rare childhood disorders.

Applications are due by April 15. Classes start May 30.

For more information, visit midwestern.edu/ academics/degrees-and-programs/post-graduatecertificate-in-precision-medicine

Day for Veterans

Education Fundamental Program Components Set The Orme School Apart

Photos courtesy of The Orme School

Go West. Go Orme.

College-Preparatory Boarding School Serving Grades 8-12

About an hour north of Phoenix lies one of the most unique and historic high schools in the nation, The Orme School. Sitting on a 26,000acre cattle ranch, Orme is home to over 100 students who come from as close as Arizona from as far away as the other side of the world for this exceptionally unique educational experience. Within the expansive ranch land that The Orme School is situated on, students are an important part of the ecosystem of native wildlife, unique weather systems, seasonal washes, and all four seasons. They can experience vivid sunsets, see the moon rise over the hills, and find the Pleiades or Orion constellations almost nightly. These everyday experiences reinforce their excellent Sustainability Program and create an appreciation and understanding of the natural world Orme students will carry for the rest of their lives.

They understand that when choosing a high school, families have a myriad of options. Sustainability is just one of the key programs that students can take part in at Orme. Horsemanship, athletics, arts, and outdoor adventure help round out the fundamental program components that set Orme apart from other schools. They believe that these experiences help reinforce the collegepreparatory lessons being presented in the classrooms by offering students real-world scenarios aimed at developing a deeper understanding of the curriculum. While

their supportive Academic Resource Center assists students who might need extra help or accommodations. Orme’s small, caring environment allows them to individualize each student’s education in a way that allows them to reach their own full potential. Orme graduates have gone on to be successful in Ivy League schools, state universities, and other top institutions around the world.

They are actively accepting applications for students entering grades eighth through 11th in the fall of 2023 and can give swift admissions decisions once an application is complete.

They also understand that boarding school is an investment for any family considering this option. Their goal is to seek out students who are individuals who will strengthen their community and excel within a unique environment. They are happy to discuss the options available, which might help reach more families who traditionally find boarding school fiscally unattainable. There are numerous Tax Credit options for Arizona residents that can significantly reduce, if not fully cover, the tuition fee to attend.

They welcome families to learn more at their website, ormeschool.org, take a virtual tour, or arrange for a time to drive north on I17 and see the campus first-hand. Contact them at admissions@ ormeschool.org or call 928-632-7601 to schedule an appointment and tour.

Go West! Go

There are 15 AP courses, seven STEM classes, and eight humanities classes.

A four to one student ratio ensures individual attention is paid to each student.

Orme!

There is a 35,000sq. foot. Garden & Orchard for the Farm-2-Table Sustainability Program.

There are 40 horses onsite for equestrian coursework.

Education

A Difference for All Kids: The Gifted Academy at Las Brisas

Every morning, students from each Deer Valley Unified School District neighborhood head to one of 41 schools that offer a range of gifted education services. But students from one of the district’s schools get something slightly different — the entire continuum of gifted services beginning in preschool.

The Gifted Academy at Las Brisas offers the district’s only gifted preschool program. Also, regardless of gifted identification, gifted-trained Las Brisas educators teach all students gifted instructional strategies daily, from pre-K through sixth grade. The gifted instructional strategies focus on choice and exploration and are highly differentiated based on readiness, content, and learning outcome.

“Many parents with a gifted preschooler find it awkward and challenging to find a program that will meet their child’s academic needs, particularly when they already know how to read because so much of early childhood is preparing to read,” says Las Brisas Elementary School Principal Mara Kurasch. “As a mom of gifted kids, I always think about what my children needed when they were young.”

“Gifted instructional strategies benefit most learners,” Kurasch continues. “Las Brisas brings those instructional practices into classrooms for all students to benefit.”

Kurasch’s experience was the catalyst behind the Gifted

Academy at Las Brisas. “As an educator, it opened my eyes to some shifts that needed to occur,” she says.

BRIGHT BEGINNINGS AND BEYOND

The Gifted Academy at Las Brisas starts with the Bright Beginnings program, servicing gifted-identified students from preschool through second grade. So, it gives the youngest students a solid and enriching beginning for their learning journey.

Students are re-assessed at the end of second grade to see what gifted programming they qualify for in third grade and above. Gifted programs in third grade and above may include Gifted Cluster Grouping, SAGE Content Placement, Spark Enrichment, Gifted Cohort, Walk-Up to Math, or Renaissance Highly Gifted and Global Studies placement. Math acceleration, pull-out enrichment, and gifted homeroom placement are also offered.

“We know gifted students have a vast array of different needs, and often they need a specialized program with a structure that also gives them opportunities to learn independently and nurtures their social skills,” Kurasch says.

Qualifying third through sixth-grade students attend the district’s Renaissance Highly Gifted and Global Studies Program at Las Brisas and continue to Hillcrest Middle

School, which is expanding for seventh and eighth grades. This self-contained program offers an immersive project and problem-based environment focusing on global studies and languages.

“We use clustering, cohorts, and self-contained programming for highly gifted students because we know the value of community,” Kurasch says. “It’s important that all students, even those in our highly gifted academy, are with their general education peers for specials, lunch, and recess because social interaction is crucial.”

All students can access STEAM, PE, music, and art through their special-areas rotation.

“We are child-centered. We are flexible. We understand. We know that kids need something different. And we welcome families to come and check us out,” says Kurasch. “We hope parents sign up for gifted tours to see if Las Brisas is where their child can flourish. Many students here love coming to school. Everybody is kind, and there is a strong sense of community. Las Brisas is a hidden gem, and it has a warm, welcoming environment where we do things a little bit differently because we know that our students need something different.”

On Wed., April 5, Las Brisas will host a Gifted Preview Night from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. To learn more and register online, visit dvusd.org/lasbrisas.

Cover Story

Arizona Sunrays Opens New North Phoenix Location Center offers year-round fun & fitness for the whole family.

By Shay Moser

Parents looking for something fun, active, and educational for their young ones from 6 months to teens need to look no further than the Arizona Sunrays, whose third location is coming soon to the Carefree Highway area.

There’s much more than gymnastics and dance at the north Phoenix locations. They also offer NinjaZone classes for all ages and skill levels, competitive team gymnastics, Sunrays Academy for high-level gymnasts on the fast track in competitive gymnastics, and camp during scheduled school breaks throughout the year. They also offer classes for children with special needs and have a licensed preschool program for ages 3 to 5.

WHERE THE CENTER FIRST STUCK ITS LANDING

Husband-and-wife founders Julie and Dan Witenstein created Arizona Sunrays over 32 years ago near 32nd Street and Thunderbird Road, offering gymnastics and dance.

“We outgrew that building and needed to get creative,” says Sunrays co-owner and general manager Kenzie Gassaway. “How can we reach more families? How can we provide more classes? Then we got to build the dream, which was building our current location from the ground up.”

The “dream” location is at 15801 N. 32nd St. in Phoenix, barely a mile from the center’s original site. Programs include gymnastics, dance, NinjaZone, competitive

team gymnastics, Sunrays Learning Center (a licensed preschool), Sunrays Academy private school, and Camp Sunrays.

Arizona Sunrays briefly branched out into the community, partnering with the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale to offer classes in the city’s community centers. The center also offered classes at churches that opened their doors.

“We grew a lot in the Arcadia area until we needed a freestanding center to offer even more classes,” Gassaway explains. “That’s how the second location in Arcadia came to be.” The Arcadia location at 3923 E. Indian School Road in Phoenix offers gymnastics, NinjaZone, and Camp Sunrays.

Soon, a new third location at 2633 W. Carefree Highway in north Phoenix will open, offering gymnastics, NinjaZone, and Camp Sunrays. Plus, Kids’ Night Out will be provided on Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. “We’ll watch the kids, feed them dinner, and do lots of fun activities so parents can have a date night.

“We’re excited to bring Arizona Sunrays’ healthy, engaging activities to this growing area and become a new gathering place for families,” continues Gassaway.

SUNRAYS PROGRAMS AT THE CAREFREE HIGHWAY LOCATION

The newest Sunrays location will offer a full range of gymnastics classes for ages 6 months to teens, with classes set up according to ability and offered year-round. NinjaZone combines obstacle course training, gymnastics, martial arts, and freestyle movement that packs a lot of fun for children ages 16 months to 11 years to build students’ character, discipline, and athletic development.

While Arizona Sunrays staff believes kids will fall in love with their programs at an early age, parents may wonder whether it’s something their little one will enjoy. That’s why Sunrays offers free baby and toddler gymnastics classes for kids under 18 months.

“Often, people think of Arizona Sunrays and think of highlevel gymnastics,” says Gassaway. “And, of course, we love that because we support high-level gymnastics, but we have a lot more itty-bitty ones who are just beginning to explore movement. We foster the little ones through those who want to take it to the next level. That’s what our slogan, the ‘joy of movement,’ is all about. We want students of all levels to explore and be empowered through all our programs.”

The Unique Abilities program offers gymnastics, dance, and NinjaZone for children with special needs. Parents can choose from one-on-one instruction, a small group with two to five kids, or a traditional class with an aide for their student.

At Camp Sunrays, campers can participate in various gymnastics circuits, dance, NinjaZone, special guest demonstrations, trampoline, group activities, water games, and more. It’s from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for ages 4 to 10 years (must be potty trained).

Arizona Sunrays also offers birthday parties and field trips for schools, parent groups, or organizations. “If you host one of these events with us, children will climb, roll, jump, and balance through a memorable experience,” Gassaway explains.

While the gymnastics and dance center has 85 employees, Gassaway says they work to keep a connected, family atmosphere. “We talk about the Sunrays family all the time and feeling close to one another and being there for each other — whether that be a staff member or a community member.”

Learn more about Arizona Sunrays locations, programs, education, events, and staff at arizonasunrays.com.

Please scan the QR code to join an interest list and receive updates on the Sunrays Carefree Highway location, coming soon.

This content is sponsored by Arizona Sunrays.

Deer Valley Spring Preview Nights!

March 1 & 2, 2023

Kindergarten Preview Nights at all K-6 & K-8 DVUSD Schools!

Free, Full-Day Program

Special Classes offered every day including: Art, Physical Education and Music

Variety of Specialized Programs, including: STEM - Science, Technology Engineering, and Math, Academy of Arts, various Gifted Program Models, Spanish and Mandarin Language Immersion Programs

92% of DVUSD K-6/K-8 Schools are A or B - Rated Schools

TEST YOUR PH KNOWLEDGE WITH CABBAGE CHEMISTRY RAINBOWS

What’sbetter than cabbage and rainbows in March?

Well, boiled cabbage may be an acquired taste (and smell!) this time of year, but you can try your luck and some science magic to enjoy this red cabbage activity. It won’t yield a pot of gold, but you’ll get to create a rainbow of kitchen chemistry and fun!

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

• 1 head red cabbage

• Safety glasses

• 6 cups boiling water

• Blender

• Strainer

• Large bowl or pitcher

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

• Large sealable container to store cabbage juice (clean 2 liter bottle, milk carton, etc.)

• 5 clear drinking glasses

• Lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

• White vinegar

• Baking soda

• Laundry detergent

• Spoons or sticks for mixing

• Optional: Milk, antacid tablets, ammonia, soda/soft drinks, other fruit juice, sports drinks, etc.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Put on safety glasses and with an adult’s help, bring six cups of water to a boil.

2. While water is heating, rip up a few leaves of the cabbage and place in blender.

3. Add 2 cups of boiling water into blender and turn on. Blend until the leaves are a fine pulp. Add more water if needed.

4. Pour your cabbage juice through a strainer into the bowl/pitcher. Discard the cabbage pulp (it’s safe to add to your compost pile!).

5. Repeat until you’ve used all of your water. One head of cabbage can make more than a gallon of juice, so it’s up to you if you want to use all of it.

6. Allow the cabbage juice to cool. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator if not using immediately.

7. Fill all five glasses at least ½ full with cabbage juice. Make observations: what does it look like?

8. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to one of the cups of cabbage juice and observe.

9. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to a separate cup of cabbage juice and observe.

10. Continue this for each of the materials you want to test (vinegar, laundry detergent, milk, etc.), adding only that material to the cabbage juice. Leave one glass of cabbage juice with nothing in it as your control.

WHAT DID YOU OBSERVE?

What color was your cabbage juice to begin with? Red cabbage contains a pigment called anthocyanin, which causes it to

appear purple in color. This chemical changes color depending on the pH of its environment, so we call it a pH indicator. This means when we add something acidic, like lemon juice, to the neutral purple, it will change color to a lighter and brighter pink or red. When we add something more basic or alkaline, like baking soda or ammonia, it will turn blue, green, or even yellow! Try testing some other materials in your kitchen, like milk or soft drinks and make predictions about what color you think they will turn. What did you observe? When you’re done testing, try organizing your colors into most acidic to most basic and snap a rainbow picture.

Sari Custer is a life-long science junkie, and the Chief of Science and Curiosity at Arizona Science Center. In addition to serving as the public spokeswoman for the Science Center, Sari is also host of the video series, Sari on Science, which fosters excitement about science for viewers of all ages

DID YOU KNOW: A popular tea made from the purple Butterfly Pea flower also has these same color changing properties since it contains anthocyanin pigments. What other foods do you think might have the same properties?

Neighbors

Hello Neighbor!

Colorado. I am a Colorado native, so it’s been wonderful being closer to my family than when I lived in New York City or traveled the country performing.

A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… my family and rehearsal. I don’t even call it work, because I love what I do so much! I work in the entertainment community as an actress, singer, dancer, choreographer, and director. I’m also the original voice of Princess Petunia in the animated series, “Veggie Tales” (20052015.) I was a rotating cast member in the OffBroadway company “Golf, The Musical” and have performed regionally throughout the U.S. When I’m not onstage, I’m still in rehearsal somewhere in the Valley, likely at The Phoenix Theatre Company, or as a choreographer/director or fulfilling my most loved role as a mom.

MY FAMILY IS… the best! My husband, John, and I have a beautiful (inside and out) 14-year-old daughter, Marlee. I also adore my two cats who kept me sane during the pandemic.

ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT… are hugs! I always knew I was a hugger, but when the pandemic hit, it solidified that hugs are everything to me!

THE ONE THING THAT MOTIVATES ME… is helping others. We are all human, different, and special in our own ways. We are allowed to like different things, have different opinions, and have different strengths. We should celebrate that in ourselves and in others. I thrive on helping people feel confident in themselves just the way they are.

THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… my husband! He has a very quiet, dry, and mellow sense of humor, but when he gets going… it's the best!

THE PERFECT DAY… begins with sleeping in, fall weather, and a new adventure of some sort.

MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… I don’t have a favorite. There are so many! The Phoenix Theatre Company, Helen’s Hope Chest, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Raising Special Kids, and Everybody Matters, Inc. are a few of my favorites.

MY LIFE IS… unpredictable and always an adventure but I wouldn’t want it any other way!

HI MY NAME IS… Cydney Trent

I’VE LIVED IN ARIZONA AND IN ANTHEM FOR 17 YEARS. I LOVE IT BECAUSE… it’s home! My husband, John, and I have created a life for ourselves here. John owns and runs Trent Design, Inc., a graphic design company. Trent Design turned 17 this past year and I could not be more proud of him. I have been lucky enough to continue thriving in my career in the arts. Our daughter, Marlee was born here in 2008, and is the light in my life. We also love to hop in the car and in just a few hours be in California, Las Vegas, or

MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING… is “The Princess Bride.” I mean… it’s got a little bit of everything, it makes me smile every time, and it’s so fun to throw out quotes from this movie in everyday life.

WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… a performer. Always a performer. It started out specifically as a dancer at age 5 or 6, but once I was introduced to musical theatre the rest is history.

THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS… honestly, I don’t usually sing at karaoke night. Believe it or not, it makes me nervous. I love supporting others instead.

THE BEST GIFT I EVER RECEIVED WAS… a video. Weird, right? I had a big birthday during the pandemic and was in quarantine with the rest of the world. One of my besties, Chanel, took the time to organize friends and colleagues from all over the country and put together the most amazing “Moulin Rouge” themed birthday video for me. It was an amazing surprise that will warm my heart for the rest of my life!

MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… a new adventure! Someplace I’ve never been that’s beautiful, interesting, relaxing, and fun all at the same time, and it would be planned and organized by someone else.

THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED… that’s an easy one––DO WHAT YOU LOVE!

Real Estate Optimism in the Local Housing Market Buyers

are jumping back into the search for their next home.

By Shelley Sakala

From Norterra to Anthem, home buying and selling is picking up.

After a major slump in 2022’s third and fourth quarters, optimism in the local housing market is growing among buyers and sellers. The area has seen a 38% increase in home searches since last quarter, along with a 3% jump in mortgage applications. These numbers are expected to keep trending upward. This is encouraging, as this is just the start of our peak real estate season which kicks off in early spring.

Listings throughout the zip codes of 85085 and 85086 have started to get more showings and even multiple offers at certain price points. The current surge in buyer and seller interest is reflective of overall recovery efforts after months of economic strain due to the global pandemic and signals an active upcoming home buying season. As more potential buyers enter the market looking for their dream homes, local real estate agents are reporting an influx of listings as those already living in the area look to capitalize on better-than-expected demand.

Several factors have contributed to this trend, including improved consumer confidence around buying a home, meaning they are over the sticker shock of the spike in interest rates. Also, increased employment opportunities from companies such as the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company are driving migration into the Phoenix area. The construction and operation of the TSMC plant will create thousands of jobs including positions for engineers, technicians, and other skilled workers. But that isn’t all, the plant is attracting other technology companies to the area, which could create the growth of a hightech ecosystem and increased economic activity.

At the same time, the average sales price is up 6% compared to the end of 2022 in our North Phoenix area––also driven by a combination of supply constraints due to limited listings and higher demand associated with an influx of buyers looking to take advantage of extremely favorable conditions. Additionally, interest rates are down nearly 1% from the highest peak we saw in 2022. Buyers that had been waiting are now jumping back into the market for their next home.

Overall, it appears that our North Phoenix community’s unique combination of affordability, convenient location, and desirable landscape are still bringing people to the area. New workers and businesses will bring more demand for local service industries like restaurants and shopping. With this newfound enthusiasm in our area, buyers and sellers can expect another strong showing in area activity this year.

Shelley Sakala is a local realtor and owner of The Sakala Group Real Estate.

Good Deeds Guide

Excitement and Activity Build Toward Arizona Gives Day on April 4

Arizona Gives Day is coming April 4, but the activity and excitement has already begun. Approximately 1,000 nonprofits have registered to be part of the annual day of giving, which has generated more than $36 million for Arizona nonprofits over the past decade and raised more than $6 million in 2022.

And Arizona Gives Day is more than just one day — donors can start showing their support for Arizona nonprofits when the early giving window opens on March 14.

Contributions to Arizona Gives Day are tax-deductible and, in some cases, can count toward the Arizona Qualified Charitable, Qualified Foster Care, or Public School Tax Credits. And with Arizona’s economy remaining strong, this year’s Arizona Gives Day could be the most impactful one yet.

The Arizona Gives program is run by the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits + Arizona Grantmakers Forum. The event was started in 2013 to connect people with causes they believe in and build a lasting, stronger spirit of philanthropy.

“We are already seeing a tremendous amount of interest in this year’s Arizona Gives Day and we’re excited about the weeks to come leading up to April 4,” said Kristen Wilson, CEO of the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits + Arizona Grantmakers Forum.

Arizona Gives Day 2022 raised more than $6 million for nonprofit organizations across the state during the 24-hour online fundraising event in April. More than 32,000 donations were made to 918 of the 1006 participating nonprofits to bring the grand total raised since the event began in 2013 to $36,406,062. The

average amount of money raised per organization was $6,546 with the average online donation was $239.

Here are some notable nonprofit charities to consider donating to. To donate to the cause of your choice, visit their website listed.

Your Guide To Informed Giving in the Valley

Aid to Adoption of Special Kids (AASK)

For nearly 35 years, Aid to Adoption of Special Kids (AASK) has served kids and teens in Arizona’s foster care system by matching them with supportive, caring adults through foster care, adoption, and mentoring. aask-az.org/donate

Arizona Burn Foundation

Arizona Burn Foundation has been serving the Grand Canyon state and its residents since 1967, providing education, emotional support, financial assistance, and leadership development programs to help those who’ve encountered the devastating effects of burn injuries. azburn.org

Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children

Their mission is to provide social, emotional and financial support directly to families managing the health and well-being of a loved one with pediatric cancer. azcancerfoundation.org

Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels

Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that brings dignity and comfort into the harsh world of childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. amandahope.org/tax-credit

BLOOM365

BLOOM365 is on a mission to prevent domestic violence, teen dating abuse, and sexual assault at the root causes and in an entire generation. Their name is their purpose: Bring Love On Others More, 365 Days a Year. bloom365.org/donate

Camp Patrick

Camp Patrick provides a unique experience not just for the kids with Spina Bifida, but also for the families that are sending their kids off to camp. Camp Patrick creates a strong support system for these families and for all the campers that attend. camppatrick.com

Cave Creek Unified School District (CCUSD)

CCUSD is a caring community of people focused on what is best for its students. Receive a tax credit for up to $400 when filing your Arizona State Income Tax return and support your local schools with this dollarfor-dollar tax credit. ccusd93.org/taxcredit

Desert Voices

Desert Voices’ mission is to teach each child, who are deaf or hard of hearing, the oral language skills needed to talk and understand when spoken to. Their goal is to prepare the children and their family to mainstream into their school of choice with hearing children their age. desert-voices.org

The Center for the Rights of Abused Children

The Center for the Rights of Abused Children fights for better futures for America’s abused children with a pro bono Children’s Law Clinic, common-sense reforms, and public interest litigation. Join their lifesaving work to end violence against children today.

thecenterforchildren.org

Hope & A Future

Hope & A Future supports Arizona’s 15,000 foster children through relationship-based programs, including summer camps, life-skills training, mentoring, tutoring and

educational scholarships. They make a difference one foster child at a time. azhope.com

Hope Women’s Center

Hope Women’s Center serves women and teen girls facing difficult life situations, including addiction, domestic and sexual abuse, unplanned pregnancy, unemployment, homelessness, and more. Our team is able to provide assistance, encouragement, and support. hopewomenscenter.org/ az-tax-credit

ICAN

Founded in 1991, ICAN serves as a year-round, out-of-school time program with the aim to transform the educational, social, and emotional wellbeing of youth in underserved areas and is offered at no cost to families. icanaz.org/donate

Midwest Food Bank Arizona

As a faith-based organization, it is the mission of Midwest Food Bank to share the love of Christ by alleviating hunger and malnutrition locally and throughout the world and providing disaster relief. This is all done without discrimination.

midwestfoodbank.org/Arizona

OCJ Kids

OCJ Kids provides services and resources to Arizona’s foster children. Through essentials such as hygiene supplies, diapers, clothing, and food, we surround these children with a sense of community, creating moments and memories to begin the healing process. ocjkids.org

Ridgeline Academy

Ridgeline Academy provides families with a community school culture

and small class sizes. Ridgeline fosters an enriched core knowledge curriculum and high academic expectations in a respect-based learning environment supported by character-based education.

ridgelineacademy.org

Ronald McDonald House Charities

For over 36 years, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona has provided a “home-away-from-home” for families traveling to the Valley for medical care for their children. rmhccnaz.org

St. Joseph the Worker

St. Joseph the Worker helps economically disadvantaged individuals become self-sufficient with the tools and support needed to secure quality employment. They do this by removing individual barriers to employment through employment services and a transitional housing program. sjwjobs.org/donate/tax-creditdonation

STARS

For 50 years, STARS has been providing a variety of services to its participants – all adults with cognitive and developmental disabilities – with the mission of helping them build the skills they need to live independent lives. starsaz.org

Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation

More than a camp, the Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation’s mission is to improve the lives of children with special needs through the wonder of camp, the beauty of nature, and the power of the human-animal connection. whisperinghoperanch.org

MARCH HAPPENINGS

ARIZONA COCKTAIL WEEKEND

When: March 10 - 13

Where: Multiple locations

What: Arizona Cocktail Weekend hosts three signature evenings of events, while the best brands in the industry showcase their top spirits via everything from branddriven happy hours and parties to educational seminars filled with craft cocktails, friends, and unforgettable memories around Phoenix.

Info: arizonacocktailweekend.com

ARIZONA TACO & MARGARITA FESTIVAL

When: March 11

Where: State Farm Stadium, 9591

W. Sportsman’s Park, Glendale

What: Taco trucks and margarita vendors converge on The Great Lawn at State Farm Stadium for a day of food and fun. Info: arizonatacofest.com

TRILOGY ARTISANS LEAGUE

ANNUAL SPRING ART WALK

When: March 11 & 12

Where: Trilogy at Vistancia, 30500 N. 131st Avenue Peoria AZ

What: Starting with only 20-plus artists 15 years ago, this Art Walk has grown to over 40 homes, showing all forms of art as well as a group exhibiting at the Mita Club. Maps and directories will be available at both the Mita and Kiva

clubhouses during the event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: theartisansleague.com

CHANDLER CHAMBER OSTRICH FESTIVAL

When: March 16 - 19

Where: Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler

What: The Ostrich Festival features live ostriches, national and local entertainment, thrilling stage shows, over 50 exhilarating midway rides and games, classic festival food, interactive activities for all ages, meet and greets with your favorite mascots, ostrich-themed educational activities, exciting attractions, upscale arts and

crafts and much more. This year’s performers include Train and more. Info: ostrichfestival.com

CAREFREE FINE ART & WINE FESTIVAL

When: March 17 - 19

Where: Downtown Carefree, Easy Street, Carefree

What: More than 165 juried artists from throughout the United States and abroad will participate displaying impressive small, medium, and life-sized bronze sculptures, sparkling hand-blown glass vessels, rope baskets, wood, clay, and mixed media sculptures, one of a kind handcrafted jewelry, exceptional photography, and

TRILOGY ARTISANS LEAGUE ANNUAL SPRING ART WALK

much more. The festival also accommodates the return of Arizona’s largest wine-tasting event, providing a unique opportunity to sample an extensive collection of domestic and imported wines. Info: thunderbirdartists.com

DESTINATION ARIZONA CARIBFEST

When: March 19

Where: Heritage Square, 113 N. 6th St., Phoenix

What: The Annual Destination Arizona CaribFest feature a variety of performances with educational pieces that are enjoyable for your family, with a variety of cultural groups, including a steel pan group, performers, Indian Dancers, the Fushicho Daiko Dojo group, and DJs.

Info: dacarnival.com

18TH ANNUAL ARIZONA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

When: March 25 & 26

Where: Tempe Town Lake–North Shore, 550 E. Tempe Town Lake, Tempe

What: Join the Arizona Dragon Boat Association for two days of exciting dragon boat competition with teams from all over the United States and beyond. Dragon Boat Racing is a unique water sports activity that is sure to provide everyone an exciting experience.

Info: azdba.org/festival-2023

SHEA HOMES GOOD LIFE FESTIVAL

When: March 25 & 26

Where: Schnepf Farms, 24990 S. Rittenhouse Rd., Queen Creek

What: R Entertainment delivers

legendary rock musicians Kenny Loggins and Kansas headlining two exciting days of living the good life at Schnepf Farms at the 12th Annual Shea Homes Good Life Festival presented by Subaru. In addition to world-class rock n’ roll, the event features fabulous food and wine, craft beer and bourbon sampling, plus boutique shopping.

Info: thegoodlifefest.com

ARIZONA BIKE WEEK

When: March 29 – April 2

Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale

What: Start revving your engines – one of the country’s largest bike rallies, Arizona Bike Week rolls into town. With an expected attendance of 75,000 people, enjoy a four-night music festival in the RockYard, plus daily happy hour parties, after hours parties, stunt shows, RV and campsite camping, charity rides, contests, bike shows, factory demo rides, and all the best bands from the local music scene performing day and night in the PowerYard.

Info: azbikeweek.com

ON DECK: APRIL

BUNNY BALLOON BLAST

When: April 7 & 8

Where: Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale

What: Familes are invited to experience hot air ballons, free candy for the kids, a free kids zone with tons of inflatables and rides, and tethered balloon rides.

Info: saltriverfields.com/ bunnyballoonblast/

Saturday, April 1 | 7:00 p.m.

All Saints Lutheran Church 15649 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85022

Sunday, April 2 | 3:30 p.m.

American Lutheran Church 17200 N Del Webb Blvd, Sun City, AZ 85373

For tickets and information visit: https://pmaz.org or call 623-326-5172

Children 15 and under are FREE with paid adult.

CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 30

SUDOKU ANSWER from page 31

Entertainment

Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates

By Tony Beal

IN THEATERS

throughout the film, and you’ll never want it to end. While keeping the film in the same world and hardships of the stories before, it feels like the right step, showing the light at the end of the tunnel.

editing and visuals, Cronenberg delivers 2023’s first truly incredible film.

our couple, ordinary people put into an extraordinary situation. In the end, you’re left with as much a feeling of worry as hope. It’s a truly remarkable film.

ON NETFLIX

“You People”

A comedy that’s also a modern day look between interracial relationships and the differences that come from families.

It’s hard to watch a bad comedy, but it’s tougher when that comedy also wants to be socially relevant. “You People” never finds that balance between humorous and serious, and instead comes off as a childish presentation. At times, it even irresponsibly plays into stereotypes. Even if you try to look at it more as pure entertainment value, it wastes an incredibly talented cast and has some of the worst and most distracting editing from a comedy in a while. It’s a film that aims high, and collapses on every level.

NEW RELEASES

“Magic Mike’s Last Dance”

The ex-dancer known as Magic Mike teams up with a British socialite to put on a stage show.

Steven Soderbergh and Channing Tatum once again managed to make a lovely and charming film in a series that’s often (and unfairly) seen as just two hours of eye candy. “Last Dance” is about Tatum and Salma Hayek Pinault’s characters, directionless in their middle ages, trying to do something with passion that they can share with everyone else. Soderbergh showcases this through his visuals (under the pseudonym Peter Andrews) that are warm and cold depending on the mood of the scene, and you feel that with the characters. Meanwhile, while the film has gone far from the grounded nature of the first film, the more heightened, musical feel works and meshes well with the dramatic tone. It’s hard to not watch this film without having a smile on your face

“Infinity Pool”

An author attends a European resort whose unique rules lead to horrific debauchery.

An early contender for the funniest movie of the year, Infinity Pool reminds me a lot of “Funny Games” in how you can’t help but laugh at the horror when the characters don’t take it seriously. Clear in its satire of the wealthy, director Brandon Cronenberg still manages to not let that completely take over the tone the film is going for, balancing that humor with an uncomfortable nature even in the same scenes. Complemented by the decision to give the exotic resort a dreary look, we witness a cast of entitled individuals stretch the limits of what their privilege and money can get them. You’ll love to hate all of them thanks to the actors, particularly Alexander Skarsgård and Mia Goth. Topped off with the nightmarish

“Knock at the Cabin”

A family find themselves held captive by a group claiming they must sacrifice someone to prevent the apocalypse.

M. Night Shyamalan’s best work has always found a way to make the most unnerving stories that still manage to make you empathize with characters not commonly depicted in genre films. “Knock at the Cabin” continues that, with every actor delivering some career-best work here, notably Dave Bautista’s soft-spoken leading invader and Rupert Grint’s tortured and nervous companion. All the while, Shyamalan flips the typical apocalypse story on its head, interrogating society’s treatment of certain individuals, like our main couple played by Jonathan Groff and Ben Aldridge, while also asking them to save the world too. You can’t help but feel the sorrow as much as fear for everyone here, even our invaders who are, like

March 3

“Creed III”

March 10

“65”

“Scream VI”

“Champions”

“Luther: The Fallen Sun” (Netflix)

March 17

“Shazam! Fury of the Gods”

“Inside”

“The Magician’s Elephant” (Netflix)

March 24

“John Wick: Chapter 4”

March 31

“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves”

“A Good Person”

“A Thousand and One”

“Murder Mystery 2” (Netflix)

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.

QBarAndGrill.net

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.

PitaJungle.com

CAPS SPORTS GRILL

ADDRESS: 1721 W. Rose Garden Ln., Phoenix

PHONE: 623-434-1950

CUISINE TYPE: American Pub Fare

CAPS Sports Grill has been voted a neighborhood favorite on Nextdoor every year since 2017 and here’s why: We have every major sports subscription package available and we are your March Madness headquarters. Daily food specials include: Taco Tuesday (3 beef or chicken for $9.99), Wing Wednesday, Country Fried Steak on Thursday ($12.99, from 5 p.m. until we run out), Friday Beer of the Day, and Saturday Happy Hour all day.

CapsGrill.com

Bites Y our Guide to Local Dining

Popular Arabic name

40. Lemon, in Paris

42. Latissimus dorsi, for short

43. Angola’s southern neighbor

45. Dairy farm glands

47. Relax, or ____ out 48. Brooke or John Jacob, of New York

50. USPS delivery

52. *Cards against what?

55. Medicinal plant with purple berries 56. Bug-eyed 57. Tiny bottle 59. a.k.a. jumping bone 60. Plucked string instrument

61. Makes a mistake

62. *”____ Day,” desirable square in The Game of Life 63. Bard’s before

DOWN

1. Govt. property org.

2. Fabled fliers

3. Mine passage

4. India’s Chennai, pre-1996

5. Flooring choice, pl.

6. Hose woes

7. 100 centavos in Mexico

8. Rum cake

9. Particle in A-bomb

10. What’s-old-is-new-again prefix

12. Somewhat late

13. Be at the helm

14. *Not chutes

19. #39 Across, pl.

22. Is no longer

23. *Trade, build, settle this island

24. Oenophile’s concern

25. Curtain fabric

26. *Connect how many?

27. Theater passage

28. Asparagus unit

29. Written works

32. Hipbones

33. Butterfly catcher

36. *Like pursuit of no vital importance

38. “____ ____ a high note”

40. A Camel, for short

41. Result of equipment failure

44. The beauty of the ball?

46. Morgan Freeman in “Driving Miss Daisy,” e.g.

48. Sign of bad news

49. Inflict a blow

50. Supernatural life force 51. Drunkard, slangily 52. Exhibiting good health 53. Swing seat, sometimes

DIABETES CARE

I can help with your Diabetes care

Care for Diabetes is challenging. Upon diagnosis, we’re handed information and sent on our way. Like being placed in the middle of the ocean in a rowboat ... with one oar. We’re not well-equipped to care for our Diabetes.

Hi, I’m John Doyle. As a Health and Wellness Coach specializing in Diabetes care, I help my clients realize their values, strengths and motivations, so they can achieve their Diabetes care goals. Health and Wellness is not just “cutting carbs and sugars.” It’s exploring the complete person - the complete you - in order to create lasting change. You can do it.

Contact me for a 15-minute introductory call. REMEMBER, EVERY STEP IS A POSITIVE STEP CONTACT: 503-602-6957 JOHNDOYLE07@MSN.COM

Getaway

Don’t think cruising is for you? These just might change your mind.

By Laurie Marschall, Lakama Luxury Travel

Does the thought of spending your vacation on a floating resort 17 decks high and three football fields long with 3,500-plus new “friends” make you shudder? Maybe this very thought has steered you away from any type of cruising altogether?

Nothing against big ships — many love them. But, if you prefer to be around fewer people, a small ship option could be your perfect vacation, even if you think cruising isn’t for you. When matched to the right style, they are wonderful experiences — exceptional, actually.

There are many advantages to small ships! Going beyond predictable ports, small ships offer exceptional service, personalized attention, casual environments, amazing cuisine, opportunities to meet likeminded guests, and a great value. Best of all, there are no crowds and no lines, not to mention the luxury of space — there’s plenty of elbowroom!

Love casual luxury? All-inclusive service? Amazing nature and wildlife or immersion into history and culture? How about rounds of golf with fellow enthusiasts? Classic cruising with fewer people? There is a style for all — ranging from as few as eight guests to just over 1,000 — some you may know; others may be new.

(No offense to the bigger ships) I describe these small ship experiences as R.E.A.L cruising.

River cruising combines history, cultural treasures, and culinary immersions with stress free travel (and no sea sickness!). Along with iconic cities, you experience the heart of a country, quaint towns, and authentic experiences you’d not find on your own. Or take a break from life’s frenzy with slow, off the beaten path, back country travel on a relaxing luxury canal barge––an all-inclusive floating boutique hotel experience with eight to 20 guests.

to places that others cannot. Smaller vessels, typically under 200 guests, often purpose built for that region, have you exploring polar, sub-tropical, and tropical destinations on all seven continents. Itineraries are never the same. What you see and do each day is largely dictated by Mother Nature’s mood at any specific time.

L:

Cruises in this category are classic — set itineraries, a variety of cabins, dining venues, entertainment, etc., like the bigger ships but with far fewer guests (100 to 1,200), more personalized service plus access to ports only available to smaller vessels. Choices range from premium to luxury and ultraluxury experiences.

The smallest of these ships have 100 to 300 guests and are known as yacht style. They offer exceptional, intimate experiences with access to even more unique ports of call. These ships often include “toys” — water sport platforms, kayaks, jet skis, maybe even helicopters and submarines. Their intimate size makes them popular for charters — family reunions, weddings, business retreats, etc.

The possibility of bringing home amazing stories is waiting for you. Even for the noncruiser. Work with a travel advisor experienced in small ship cruising to help you find the one that best fits you and your style.

E: EXPEDITION CRUISING

Expedition cruises are where WOW happens, where curious explorers venture

A: ADVENTURE STYLE CRUISING

These atypical cruises attract guests who seek something different and active. Almost like summer camp for adults! One style has you choosing itineraries with few or no ports of call – it’s all about being one with nature (Alaska, Hawaii, Baja, Central America). A second style has you sailing on a four- or five-masted Clipper ship in the Mediterranean and Caribbean… nope, this is not a cruise. It’s sailing, and there’s nothing like it! For something truly unique, a third style is part cruise, part cargo ship, that sails between the islands of French Polynesia and the Marquesas. Total comfort onboard, total cultural immersion on shore.

Lakama Luxury

Travel specializes in river and small ship cruising, small group land tours, and safaris. Laurie Marschall makes your travel planning easy by taking on the research and planning so you can simply enjoy time on an Elbowroom Inspired vacation. Call 602-540-7338 or email Laurie@lakamatravel.com to get started.

Sponsored by Lakama Travel.

R: RIVER (AND CANAL) CRUISING

LUXURY AND YACHT STYLE CRUISING

Photo Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Photo Courtesy of David Merron/Quark Expeditions

Photo Courtesy of Star Clippers

Photo Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas