Paradise Valley View, February 2023

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City News

411: The Latest Local News You Need to Know

HISTORIC OLD TOWN ESPN MAIN STREET TAILGATE

A five day Western-style tailgate party is taking place along Main Street between Scottsdale Road and Brown Avenue in Old Town adjacent to Scottsdale Civic Center from Wed., Feb. 8, through Sun. Feb. 12. In conjunction with ESPN, the event will serve as the backdrop for much of the network’s pre-game coverage of Super Bowl LVII.

The event will go on daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to noon, with multiple ESPN productions each day. Throughout the event, guests can enjoy games and live performances from local favorites including The Singing Cowboy Gary Sprague and his trusty steed Dusty. Attendees will also have multiple photo opportunities (including ESPN talent spotting!) and the chance to make a cameo on live TV.

STALLION STAMPEDE COMMUNITY ART PROJECT UNVEILED

larger installation encompassing multiple locations across Scottsdale. Each horse depicts the work of talented artists in the community and will be on display through March, then the herd will be auctioned one by one at the Stallion Stampede Gala on April 15. Proceeds will benefit the Rotary Club of Scottsdale’s scholarship fund, as well as charities selected by each stallion’s sponsor. To find the stallions, visit stallionstampede. com.

NEW OFFICER SWORN IN

University Police Department with six years of law enforcement experience, including being a field training officer, incident response team member, special operations unit, bicycle instructor, and crisis intervention team member.

POLICE WARN RESIDENTS OF “BEHIND THE BADGE” SURVEY

The Town of Paradise Valley Police Department is warning locals about a possible direct mail scam circulating in the area, claiming to be backed by the Paradise Valley Police Department. The Citizens Behind the Badge group is allegedly sending out surveys and donation requests to residents.

The Paradise Valley Police Department does not have an affiliation with the group and does not solicit donations. Citizens Behind the Badge is not registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit with the IRS, according to Charity Navigator.

FIRST PHASE OF SCOTTSDALE CIVIC CENTER OPEN

The first phase of improvements to Scottsdale Civic Center opened in late January. The entire project will be complete in late March and the city is planning a community celebration in April to showcase the newly renovated public space. Funding for much of the $33.5 million project was approved by Scottsdale voters in the 2019 Bond Election. Construction began in October 2021 and the area has been closed to the public during construction.

The western two-thirds of the project were the first to open in January including the West Paseo from Old Town Scottsdale, West Bowl, 360 Stage, Civic Lawn, and Marshall Gardens. Pedestrian access will be provided across Civic Center from Old Town and the Center for the Performing Arts to the northern City Hall parking lot.

The remainder of Civic Center is expected to be complete in late March 2023. This includes everything east of the Civic Lawn including the City Hall Lagoons, Water and Fog Plaza, Children’s Gardens, and the East Bowl.

A collection of eight artistically designed fiberglass stallions are on display at Scottsdale Fashion Square. The life-size stallions at Fashion Square are part of a

Adam Cook was sworn in by Chief Freeman Carney as Paradise Valley Police Department’s newest officer on Jan. 18, with his wife pinning on his badge.

Adam joins the department from the Arizona State

Artist Niki Woehler with her stallion creation, Ransom.

City News

Headlining Artists Set for Super Bowl Experience at Hance Park Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee brings free concert to locals and visitors.

Photos courtesy of Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee

THE ARIZONA SUPER BOWL HOST COMMITTEE ANNOUNCED TWO MUSICAL ACTS HEADLINING THE VERIZON STAGE AT THE FREE SUPER BOWL EXPERIENCE PRESENTED BY LOWE’S AT HANCE PARK, 67 W. CULVER ST., PHOENIX. ARIZONAGROWN ROCK BAND JIMMY EAT WORLD AND AWARD-WINNING COUNTRY MUSIC ARTIST LEE BRICE WILL PERFORM THE EVENINGS OF FEB. 9 AND 10.

“We are thrilled to bring free concerts featuring world-class talent to locals and visitors at the opening of Super Bowl festivities,” says Jay Parry, president & chief executive officer of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee. “Jimmy Eat World and Lee Brice bring showstopping performances and will create the ultimate party atmosphere in the heart of downtown Phoenix.”

Alternative rock band Jimmy Eat World enters 2023 celebrating three decades of success. The born and raised Arizonans shot to fame with their iconic/anthemic single “The Middle” and continue to be pioneers of the genre with

recent releases “Something Loud,” and “Place Your Debts.”

Lee Brice is an American country music artist. Brice attended Clemson University on a football scholarship, and after an arm injury, he focused on his country music career. He has taken nine radio singles to number one on the Billboard country charts, including “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” a duet with Carly Pearce that won Single of the Year at the American Country Music Awards in 2021.

The Super Bowl Experience presented by Lowe’s at Hance Park is a free outdoor festival for all ages open day to night. Viewing space for the concerts is based on availability on a first come, first served basis. Along with live entertainment and games, fans can enjoy local cuisine catering to every palette and local and domestic beer from Hensley Beverage Company.

The first-ever official Super Bowl Watch Party takes place Sunday at Hance Park. The game, broadcast on FOX, will be shown on the largest LED screens in Arizona. Gates open at 11 a.m. for the ultimate tailgate experience before the free watch party. A full list of Super Bowl events is available at azsuperbowl.com.

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2023

Worldwide Women’s Film Festival Showcases Films in Scottsdale

THE FIFTH ANNUAL 2023 WORLDWIDE WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL (WWFF) WILL BE HELD FEB. 17 TO 19 AT THE HARKINS SHEA 14 THEATRES, 7354 E. SHEA BLVD. Out of 132 films submitted, the festival will showcase 45 films.

All WWFF films feature a woman in at least one key creative role of writer, producer, director, cinematographer, editor, and composer, and include features shorts, documentaries, sci-fi, and web series.

WWFF strives for inclusiveness and diversity and balance of gender, race, film positions, and more. The WWFF supports women in film by educating,

supporting, and empowering women in the collaborative endeavor of filmmaking while shinning a light on women’s stories and other diverse experiences across all genders.

There will be an opening night party at Il Capo Pizzeria, 7366 E. Shea Blvd from 9:30 p.m. to close on Feb. 17, followed by a Red Carpet and Awards Ceremony the following evening from 9:30 p.m. to close.

For more information, along with details about the free workshops being offered, visit wwfilmfestival.org or email worldwidewomensfilmfestival@gmail. com.

Kristen Hansen BSN, RN Owner

City News

The 27th Annual Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival Returns

to Theaters & Online

AFTER TWO YEARS OF BEING HELD ENTIRELY ONLINE, THE GREATER PHOENIX JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL (GPJFF) ANNOUNCED A LIMITED RETURN TO IN-THEATER FILM SCREENINGS WITH ITS UPCOMING 27TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL TAKING PLACE

FEB. 19 THROUGH MARCH 5. The 2023 festival will feature both in-person and virtual screening components, each celebrating Jewish culture with an exciting lineup of films showcasing Jewish life, traditions, history, and heritage.

The longest-running film festival in the Valley, the Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival enters its 27th year by presenting 24 feature-length Jewish films hailing from over a dozen different countries! Viewers will have the opportunity to travel from the beaches of South Florida to the ateliers of Paris; from a high rise in Tel Aviv to the rolling hills and lush acres of Monticello; from the backrooms and boardrooms of Germany to multiple villages and towns of wartime Europe.

Three carefully selected films will screen in-person at Harkins Theater locations in Scottsdale and Tempe from Sun., Feb. 19 through Mon., Feb. 20. Virtual screenings will begin Thurs., Feb. 23 and continue through Sun., March 5. All virtual showings will be available throughout the entire virtual festival timespan and

will no longer be limited to a 72-hour screening window.

The return to limited in-theater screenings takes into consideration the desires of many festival attendees, says Tricia Beran, GPJFF co-executive director. “While many of our festival goers have made it clear they love the flexibility and ease of watching our festival films from home, we know that the in-person socializing and in-theater event energy are a key aspect of the festival.”

Over the last quarter of a century, the popularity of the film festival has grown alongside the Valley’s population. “The Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival has earned its place as a top cultural event for Jews and non-Jewish residents because our team of committed screening volunteers from across the greater Phoenix area spend hundreds of hours previewing films to find the most entertaining and eye-opening new films that delight and teach us about Jewish experiences,” says Sue Addato, GPJFF’s co-executive director.

Short films and bonus post-film content with filmmakers and experts on film subjects will accompany some screenings.

For more information on the festival or to purchase tickets, go to gpjff.org.

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City News

Famed Guitarist Esteban to Perform at the MIM

Photos Courtesy of Blushing Cactus Photography

HIT THE RIGHT NOTES WITH YOUR SWEETIE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY AT AN INTIMATE CONCERT BY LEGENDARY GUITARIST ESTEBAN. ESTEBAN WILL PERFORM TWICE AT 6:30 AND 9 P.M. ON FEB. 15 AT THE MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM (MIM), LOCATED AT 4725 E. MAYO BLVD., PHOENIX. Tickets are $46.50 to $56.50 and are available at mim.org/events.

At each show, guests will experience classical Spanish fusion with a contemporary rock influence as Esteban plays with renowned violinist and daughter Teresa Joy. Join Esteban and Teresa Joy as they breathe loving melodies and beats into beautiful Spanish classical music and newly composed songs fused with many old favorites.

“I invite you to join us for an up-close concert experience for like no other where you’ll feel every note and strum of my guitar,” says Esteban. “It’s a one-of-a-kind

Valentine’s Day memory you won’t soon forget.”

Renowned for his emotive performances and exemplary classical and flamenco guitar, the critically acclaimed Esteban has toured the country and topped Billboard charts with numerous albums, videos, and DVDs. Launching his career in Arizona, Esteban and Teresa Joy played at the Hyatt Regency Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, where they won “Best of Phoenix” for eight years.

In addition to his Phoenix concert, on Feb. 14, he is also performing in Sedona. The limited-seat Valentine’s Day Dinner Concert takes place at 7 p.m. (with doors opening at 5:15 p.m.) on Tues., Feb. 14 at Sound Bites Grill, located at 101 N. State Route 89A, F29, Sedona. Tickets for the Sedona concert range from $59 to $179 depending on the package and are available at soundbitesgrill.com or by calling Sound Bites at 928-282-2713. For more information on Esteban, his music and show schedule, follow him on Facebook at facebook.com/rockonesteban.

City News

Scottsdale’s Historic Arabian Horse Show Returns for the 68th Year Visit Westworld for the world’s largest Arabian horse show.

Photos courtesy of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show

THE RETURN OF THE 68TH ANNUAL SCOTTSDALE ARABIAN HORSE SHOW AT WESTWORLD OF SCOTTSDALE RUNS FROM FEB. 16 THROUGH FEB. 26 AND FEATURES THE WORLD’S BEST ARABIANS, EXCITING COMPETITIONS, A SHOPPING EXPO, AND MORE.

“Scottsdale is the mecca for Arabian horses and each year we’re thrilled to have unique, beautiful horses from around the world come here for this event,” says Taryl O’Shea, executive director of the AHAA. “The Arabian horse community helped shape what Scottsdale is today and has had

tremendous impact both economically, culturally, and socially over the past six-plus decades. We’re grateful for the opportunity to welcome back the horse community, newcomers, and enthusiasts this February.”

The 2023 show will feature more than 2,000 horses competing for more than $3 million in prize money. Event goers can look forward to a huge variety of classes where Arabians will show their versatility, beauty, and grace. The new ranch horse classes test the Arabians’ ability to perform ranch tasks, proving the uniqueness of this horse as good for pleasure riding, working, and agility.

The immersive experience will return

this year, giving attendees a hands-on experience to learn, touch and ride, hosted by HoofbeatZ USA, a Phoenixbased organization. The interactive experience, included in the event ticket, introduces newcomers to the world of horses and all the benefits they offer.

Along with the engaging performances, event attendees will have the opportunity to see exhibits featuring fine art, crafts, clothing, and jewelry in the Shopping Expo adjacent to the main arena. More than 300 artisans and entrepreneurs are expected to sell unique goods and offer a wide variety of products and services.

The Arabian Horse Association of

Arizona will also be celebrating the second annual National Arabian Horse Day on Feb. 19 with special events and activities at the show.

The 11-day show will start at 8 a.m. each day at WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd. General admission tickets cost $15, tickets for seniors are $10, while children aged 12 and under are free. Military Appreciation Day is Tues., Feb. 21, when military personnel and their families can attend for free. A family night will be held on Fri., Feb. 24, giving families free admission beginning at 6:30 p.m. A special general admission ticket good for all 11 days can be purchased for $75. For more information, visit scottsdaleshow.com.

WHERE CHARACTER COUNTS!

City News

MONOPOLY: Scottsdale Edition Debuts

Photos courtesy of Top Trumps USA

MR. MONOPOLY IS MAKING HIS WAY TO SCOTTSDALE! TOP TRUMPS USA, THE AMERICAN DIVISION OF WINNING MOVES INTERNATIONAL, CREATORS OF CLASSIC GAMES AND PUZZLES, DEBUTED MONOPOLY: SCOTTSDALE EDITION LAST MONTH, UNDER LICENSE FROM HASBRO, A GLOBAL BRANDED ENTERTAINMENT LEADER.

MONOPOLY: Scottsdale Edition replaces the perennial board game’s famous Atlantic City squares (from Boardwalk to Park Place) with representations of much-loved Scottsdale cultural sites, historic landmarks, and time-honored busi nesses, alongside a customized Community Chest and Chance playing cards to ensure each detail of the game pays homage to the “The West’s Most Western Town.”

THE FULL GAME INCLUDES:

• Sites that showcase Scottsdale’s natural beauty and geography (McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Tom’s Thumb Trailhead)

•Local nonprofits (Make-A-Wish Arizona, Scottsdale

• Cultural destinations (Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Scottsdale Stadium)

• Historical landmarks (Bob Parks’ Bronze

• Beloved local businesses and attractions (OdySea Aquarium, The Phoenician)

“We consider the Scottsdale edition of MONOPOLY to be one of our best city editions of the game yet,” says Katie Hubbard of Top Trumps USA. “Not only did we incorporate feedback from the public on what essential businesses and landmarks should be included, but we have created stunning ‘only-in-Scottsdale’ visuals to accompany the board.”

MONOPOLY: Scottsdale Edition is available in stores, including Barnes & Noble Scottsdale, Kactus Jock, Scottsdale Southwest, Southwestern Reflections, The Poisoned Pen, and online at retail partners, including Amazon and more.

To learn more about MONOPOLY city experience boards, visit toptrumps.us.

The “Original” Our Gang Pizza Brings Old School Back

Photo courtesy of Louisa Ward

THE “ORIGINAL” OUR GANG PIZZA QUIETLY OPENED JAN. 17 BUT IS QUICKLY GENERATING ATTENTION VIA COMMUNITY WORD OF MOUTH. Conceived by brothers Dino and Robert Brescia, the OG, as locals have fondly started to refer to this new spot, offers a pizza-focused menu and two salads––a dinner salad and caprese salad.

Create your own pizza or select a delectable option like the pizza margherita, grilled lemon pepper chicken pizza, Lani’s Spicy Hawaiian, or NY White Pizza. The former owners of Our Gang Café, which they operated for 25 years, are taking a chance with a bare-bones concept that focuses on what they do best––make pizza.

The Brescia’s approach is “A little bit old school,” as Dino explains.

The OG offers takeout only but does have a few seats outside where Dino and his brother enjoy chatting with customers over a slice. “We use the best products. The best cheese. The best flour. And we hand cut our veggies daily,” he explains.

To keep costs down, there’s no delivery. And don’t expect wine or beer, although they do have bottled sodas available. Only cash is accepted, but an ATM machine is onsite if you’re light on currency. This allows the brothers to provide quality food at a reasonable price.

Both brothers live only four blocks away from their fresh endeavor, and they like it that way. It allows them to be hands on and offers a direct connection to the community they call home.

Located at 10210 N 32nd St, A-1, Phoenix, the OG is open Tuesday

through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. There’s no website, but you can call 602-787-4992 for more information.

City News Spring Jazz Performances Coming to Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

Photos courtesy of Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

SCOTTSDALE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS HAS ALREADY WELCOMED SOME JAZZ GREATS TO ITS STAGE THIS SEASON, AND THERE’S STILL MORE TO COME THIS SPRING, INCLUDING A CELEBRATION OF PRESERVATION HALL’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY ON TUES, MARCH 7.

“We are elated to present a wide range of jazz this spring, in hopes that folks will find something they know and love but are also persuaded to explore something fresh and new,” says Abbey Messmer, programming director for Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. “Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Glenn Miller Orchestra are legacy groups grounding the series while multitalented innovator Christian McBride and his New Jawn band experiment with a cordless concept.”

Starting off the spring jazz performances, Christian McBride’s New Jawn invites audiences on Fri., Feb. 3, to enjoy a show full of jazz, R&B, pop-rock, hip-hop, neosoul, and classical. McBride is an eight-time Grammywinning bassist, composer, and bandleader, as well as educator and advocate as the artistic director of Jazz House KiDS and the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Summer Sessions.

On Fri., March 3, Grammy-nominated artists Pedrito Martinez and Alfredo Rodriguez will take listeners on a unique and exciting journey through a variety of moods and influences.

“Two of Cuba’s most exciting artists, classical piano prodigy Alfredo Rodriquez and percussionist Pedrito Martinez, return to Scottsdale for a third time since performing La Gran Fiesta in 2016, then Discover Cuba Series in 2018,” Messmer says. “In 2023, they’ll bring Cuban classics and original compositions to our stage.”

Preservation Hall Jazz Band makes a stop in Scottsdale on Tues., March 7, during its nationwide tour to celebrate the band’s 60th anniversary. Preservation Hall is a humble, much-loved room dedicated to keeping the past and future of jazz alive, giving audiences the ineffable experience of channeling their ancestors through the music and culture they’ve inherited from them.

“Touring is a part of our ritual,” says Ben Jaffe, creative director of Preservation Hall. “It’s our tradition. People come to Preservation Hall and have transformative experiences, and that’s part of our mission: to go out in the world and make that experience available to people.”

The Glenn Miller Orchestra — one of the most soughtafter big bands in the world — presents seven decades

of hits in its signature sound on Sun., March 12. Founded by the legendary Glenn Miller, the group has toured around the world, had several NBC sustaining broadcasts and is featured in the feature film “The Glenn Miller Story.”

The 2022–23 season ends with Joshua Redman 3×3 on Thurs., May 4. Joshua Redman is a Grammy-nominated American jazz saxophonist and composer, who has performed alongside musical icons such as The Dave Matthews Band, Yo Ma, The Rolling Stones, Stevie Wonder, and Quincey Jones. His latest project is a celebration of the power of three — the music of three iconic jazz composers interpreted in the classic trio format of saxophone, bass, and drums.

“Later this spring, we come back to iconic jazz with Joshua Redman’s 3x3 program, featuring Ellington, Monk, and Shorter,” Messmer says. “It’s a nice arc of options, and our theater is a great room to hear music, so we look forward to celebrating the many forms of jazz with all the music lovers out there.”

All concerts take place in the Virginia G. Piper Theater at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. 2nd St. Ticket prices vary by show. Visit scottsdaleperformingarts.org/events or call Scottsdale Arts Guest Services at 480-499-TKTS (8587) for more information.

Joshua Redman

Pedrito & Alfredo

Preservation Hall Jazz Band

The Glenn Miller Orchestra

ChooseyourJourneyofEXCELLENCE

City News

Children’s Museum of Phoenix and Delta Dental of Arizona Partner on Children’s Dental Health Month

Programming throughout February

Photo courtesy of Delta Dental

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PHOENIX AND DELTA DENTAL OF ARIZONA HAVE PARTNERED TO BRING ORAL HEALTH PROGRAMMING TO THE MUSEUM FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY – NATIONAL CHILDREN’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH. This marks the 15th consecutive year that the museum and Delta Dental of Arizona have joined forces to provide oral health education programs to museum visitors. The museum will host interactive activities, shows, and educational information all related to the mouth, teeth, and oral health all month long. Thanks to Delta Dental of Arizona, oral health programming and activities are free with paid museum admission. Children under the age of 1 are free, as are members of the Children’s Museum of Phoenix.

“Since its inception, this program has provided more than half a million children as well as their families and caregivers with proper oral hygiene education and dental supplies. Tooth decay is the number one chronic disease among children, but it is nearly 100% preventable. Through this program, together with the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, we are empowering children and adults alike with knowledge that can keep them healthy throughout their lives,” says Barb Kozuh, executive director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation.

Featured programs, each of which will be presented on select days throughout the month, include:

• The Great Arizona Puppet Theater: Back again this year, the theater will be performing several fun oral healththemed puppet shows, each tailored to a specific age range and development level.

• The Great Flossini Presents “The Totally Tooth-Ular Magic Show:” Audience members become a part of the show with highly interactive magic routines designed specifically to reinforce the importance of brushing, flossing, eating healthy foods, and visiting the dentist regularly.

• From First Tooth to Loose Tooth: Q&A sessions with dental students from A.T. Still University. This program invites parents to ask questions about anything from thumb-sucking to the best time to take your baby to the dentist.

In addition to these featured programs, daily hands-on activities range from art projects to teaching proper brushing and flossing techniques, crafts to create tooth-saver necklaces, educational opportunities in the KIDchen and The Children’s Garden to learn about the healthy foods you can eat that help your teeth stay healthy, plus cool programs about the teeth of various animals. Back by popular demand are “Smile Bags” containing toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss and fun facts about dental health. These free giveaways will be available daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to all visitors throughout the month, including for field trip visitors.

For a full schedule of activities and featured programming at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix throughout the month of February, please visit www. childrensmuseumofphoenix.org/events.

City News

Ask-A-Cardiologist Event

Get answers to your cardiovascular health questions at Desert Foothills Family YMCA on Feb. 15.

ABRAZO HEALTH IS MARKING

AMERICAN HEART MONTH BY PRESENTING AN ASK-A-CARDIOLOGIST EVENT AT DESERT FOOTHILLS FAMILY YMCA, 34250 N. 60TH ST., SCOTTSDALE. The public is invited to hear Abrazo physicians talk about heart disease risks, prevention, and treatment on Feb. 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

February is American Heart Month, and cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States. The fact that many Americans don’t consider themselves at risk for heart disease is why educating the community on the importance of heart health is so important.

Smoking, poor diet, high stress, obesity, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle are all things that can contribute to heart disease. Left unchecked, it can lead to a wide array of serious and life-threatening health complications, including heart failure, heart attack, stroke, and death.

Scheduled speakers for the free event include Abrazo Health cardiologists Dr. Christian Lopez and Dr. William Jaffe.

Abrazo Health is one of the largest health systems in Arizona, serving the greater Phoenix area with advanced programs in cardiovascular, neurosciences, orthopedics, spine and sports medicine, trauma and emergency services, surgical robotics, general surgery, and maternity care. The Abrazo system includes Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital, Abrazo Arrowhead Campus, Abrazo Central Campus, Abrazo Cave Creek Hospital, Abrazo Mesa Hospital, Abrazo Scottsdale Campus, Abrazo Surprise Hospital, and Abrazo West Campus – along with freestanding emergency centers, primary care and specialty physician practices and graduate medical education programs.

To register for the Ask-A-Cardiologist event at Desert Foothills Family YMCA, visit abrazohealth.com/events.

City News Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West Displays the Soul of the American West

Photo courtesy of Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

WESTERN SPIRIT: SCOTTSDALE’S MUSEUM OF THE WEST, ANNOUNCED TODAY THE UPCOMING OPENING OF “THE GATHER: A PORTRAIT OF THE AMERICAN WEST – SCOTT T. BAXTER,” A RIVETING NEW EXHIBITION FEATURING 148 PHOTOGRAPHS FROM 1998 TO 2023, CHRONICLING AMERICAN RANCHERS AND COWBOYS (MEN AND WOMEN) ACROSS THE AMERICAN WEST.

“The Gather: A Portrait of the American West – Scott T. Baxter” runs through July 30 at Western Spirit. The 148 featured photographs are displayed in various photographic techniques like silver gelatin, platinum/ palladium, and archival pigment prints.

“Scott Baxter has a way of capturing the heart and soul of so many modern-day ranchers of the modern American West through the lens of his camera,” says Assistant Director- Collections, Exhibitions, and Research, Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West Tricia Loscher. “All of the images displayed in “The Gather” celebrate a vibrant way of life and the many unique traditions that continue to this day in the West.”

Scott Baxter is the author of “100 Years 100 Ranchers,” a 10-year official Legacy Project book for the Arizona Centennial that documents 100 long-time families who have been ranching in Arizona since 1912 or earlier.

Since spring 2011, “100 Years 100 Ranchers” has been shown throughout Arizona from Terminal Four at Sky Harbor to Wickenburg’s Desert Caballeros Western Art Museum and the Tucson Museum of Art.

“I decided to take on these projects because I felt it was important to preserve with photographs the vanishing legacy of ranchers and working cowboys. I chose to work exclusively with monochromatic film because it too has a long, wonderful history,” shares Baxter. When discussing his process Baxter says, “I have always tried to do something worthwhile with my photography and I believe deeply in these photographic projects. The stories in “The Gather” are stories worthy of preserving. If you find something you are passionate about, the story will come, and I find it always comes out before the photograph is even made.”

Western Spirit features regularly changing and permanent exhibits of Western and Native American art and artifacts, entertaining events. and informative programs that bring the West’s heritage, culture, and community to life.

For more information on Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, go to scottsdalemuseumwest.org.

City News

Design for Dogs Event to Benefit Homeless Animals

LOCAL ARCHITECTS, INTERIOR DESIGNERS, AND HOME BUILDERS ARE IMAGINING WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE IN THE DOGHOUSE AS THEY CREATE UNIQUE SHELTERS FOR PUPS TO AUCTION DURING THE DESIGN FOR DOGS EVENT BENEFITTING THE ARIZONA ANIMAL WELFARE LEAGUE (AAWL) ON FEB. 24.

Sixteen professional design and build teams have been commissioned to design, build, and donate a swanky pet palace to the Design for Dogs event, where the homes will be auctioned

off and compete for “Best in Show.” The money raised at this event helps the Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) put a roof over more than 4,000 homeless pets’ heads every year, and will fund life-saving programs, including low-vaccine clinics, rural rescue efforts, and a community vet clinic. AAWL is the state’s oldest and largest no-kill shelter.

In addition to walking the Facings of America showroom filled with dog houses, ticket holders receive a ticket redeemable for two drinks provided by

local vendors. The night will also include music, adoptable dogs looking for some ear scratches, raffle prizes, and plenty of puppy kisses. The custom doghouses will be judged by a panel of notable names in the Valley including Feras Irikat, the director of design and marketing guru for Lunada Bay Tile.

Held at the Facings of America Showroom, 16421 N. 90th St., Scottsdale, the cost for general admission is $55 or $100 for two. To purchase tickets, visit eventbrite.com/e/designfor-dogs-2023-tickets-438753231727.

Community Piano Gift Hits High Note for People with Dementia

By Lin Sue Flood

Photos courtesy of Hospice of the Valley

When Steve Harnden brought home a beautiful ebony baby grand, he envisioned his wife learning to play an instrument she had always loved. Monica was thrilled. The piano even had a “player piano” feature so it could play tunes by itself.

Over the next year and a half, Monica took lessons and mastered a few songs. She enjoyed filling their Glendale home with music until she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. The optimistic former nurse joined an aggressive drug trial, fully aware that she would not benefit, but hoping it might save lives in the future. She fought for 26 months, living long enough to see her son get married.

In the last weeks of her life, Monica confessed to Steve that she never wanted him to get rid of the piano. But he felt strongly that it should continue to make music and bring joy to people. After talking it through, Steve suggested donating it to Hospice of the Valley. The nonprofit was caring for Monica through this vulnerable time and providing emotional support to him too.

“Our care team was outstanding,” he recalls. “Actually, they were angels. Hospice of the Valley was our source of strength during those last few weeks.”

Monica smiled and agreed there was no better place for her piano to go.

It took several years after Monica’s passing before Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus opened in Phoenix and could accept the generous donation, but Monica’s piano was finally moved into its new home. It now sits in a cozy corner of the dining area of the Assisted Living at The Campus.

Because music has a magical effect on people living with dementia, members of the Adult Day Club are treated to impromptu performances — whether it’s listening to holiday tunes and favorite songs on the player piano or enjoying live music, compliments of campus staff, or residents and visitors who can’t resist tickling the ivories.

Recently, Steve felt ready to visit Monica’s piano himself. He ran his hand over the small, gold-engraved seal bearing his wife’s name. Then he sat, with eyes closed, as a young Hospice of the Valley volunteer gave him a private concert, playing a gorgeous arrangement of Chopin’s “Nocturne in B-flat Minor.” As he applauded, a look of pure delight lit up his face.

As she grew weaker, the piano lid was lowered, and lovely framed family photos were arranged on top for her to enjoy. Steve would launch the player piano feature with his iPad and they would sit together as the music swirled around them.

“I know Monica is smiling to see her piano in its new home,” Steve says softly. “I don’t feel any sadness — just joy. This is where it belongs so it can continue to make a difference. It’s really good to see it here.”

Hospice of the Valley’s innovative Dementia Care and Education Campus serves people living with all types of dementia from early to advanced stages. To learn more, visit dementiacampus.org

The piano bears a gold plate with Monica’s name on it.

Members of the Dementia Campus Adult Day Club often gather around the piano to enjoy music therapy.

Steve Harnden enjoys a private concert by Hospice of the Valley volunteer Krishna.

Seeing his wife’s piano in its new home brought Steve pure joy.

Neighbors

Hello Neighbor!

through my bedroom windows, write in my journal, and get a little reading in. I then spend a few precious, if rushed, moments with my teenagers before they head off to school. Some mornings I’ll go for a walk on the canal or squeeze in a 6 a.m. yoga class before beginning my workday. I started my own PR firm, Elaina V. Public Relations, in 2020 and have been fortunate to have grown the business to work with several amazing clients – mainly in the real estate industry. My days are filled with client meetings, and lots of writing, emails, and phone calls. I love the flexibility of working from home or I may head to The Grid.Works co-work space, which is conveniently located in the same building as one of my clients, ABI Multifamily.

WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… the owner of a bookstore/café.

THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KAROKE NIGHT IS… my daughter recently got me into Greta Van Fleet (we have tickets to a show). Lately, I’ve been belting out their song “Heat Above” on repeat.

THE PEOPLE WHO MOTIVATE ME ARE… my kids. I strive to provide a peaceful, happy home, set a good example, and help launch them successfully into adulthood.

MY LIFE IS… peaceful and happy. I wake up every day and write down three things I’m grateful for, three things I’m excited about, and three things I want to manifest. Every day, I think about how grateful I am for my life.

THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS… an Aeron chair. I spend too many hours sitting at my desk, and this chair is a dream!

HI, MY NAME IS… Elaina Verhoff.

I’VE LIVED IN OUR HOME IN THE MARION ESTATES NEIGHBORHOOD FOR 16 YEARS AND I LOVE IT

BECAUSE… we are so fortunate to live in a stunning desert with incredible mountain views, beautiful cacti, and abundant wildlife, yet we are right in the middle of the city. This spot between Arcadia and Paradise Valley is home to so many great restaurants too. I love riding my bike to Chelsea’s Kitchen, Ingo’s, Postino, or LGO with friends. Now we just need to get Vincent’s to bring back the Saturday market!

A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… I’m an early bird, so I love waking up early to watch the sunrise

MY FAMILY IS… everything. I am so grateful to have my parents living five minutes away and my kids still living with me at home. My daughter is an honors student and athlete at Arcadia High School and my son is a freshman at ASU who runs his own holiday light hanging business. I’m very close with my parents who I try to help as much as I can, but they always end up helping me way more, as they always have!

ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS… yoga.

MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY… there was a day when I watched movies more than once. And while I’m no longer a fan of rewatching movies, I could probably quote just about any 80s movie line by line!

THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… I sent out a pitch to a writer today about turnkey standalone guest houses for backyards, except I said turkey. She wrote back and said “lol, I’m writing a separate piece on squirrel houses for ‘Architectural Digest’ right now, and I took your typo at face value for a little too long ...”

THE PERFECT DAY INCLUDES…coffee, journal, sunrise, beach, explore, yoga, massage, wine, laughter, love, sunset, sleep.

MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… I have three! The Arizona Housing Fund, which is providing an easy way for the private sector to address Arizona’s homelessness epidemic by funding more affordable housing with support services. The Saguaros, a group of 50 professionals who have a blast volunteering and raising millions for Arizona children’s charities. And Kids in Focus, a mentorship program for at-risk kids that builds confidence through photography.

MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… I’m working on that one now. I think a beach will be involved. I used to live in Laguna Beach, and miss the ocean air, sea, and sand.

THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED IS… change the way you look at things and the things you look at will change.

Dining Newly Opened Kitsune Brewing Co. is a Passion Project Turned Dream Job Home brewer trades corporate life for craft beer.

Photos courtesy of Kitsune Brewing Co.

Kitsune Brewing Co. opened late last year at 3321 E. Bell Rd., Ste. B-5, but the concept for the business had been brewing long before that. Encouraged by his wife and now business partner Rebecca, Tyler Smith gave up corporate life to follow his dream and develop unique craft beers that push the envelope — and that have local craft beer lovers clamoring for more.

“I’ve been home brewing for more than 15 years. A family friend introduced me to it and I fell in love with the process,” says Smith, whose resume includes corporate gigs with the likes of Nike and PetSmart. He notes that through various changes in his career, home brewing in his spare time remained a constant. “Right before I was about to take another job and move my family, my wife asked me if that would really make me happy or if I wanted to take my home brewing to the next level.”

The choice was obvious and with Rebecca’s support and help, they dove into making the dream of running their own brewery come true. But then COVID hit. Luckily, during that time, Tyler found a mentor and a friend in fellow brewer Marshall Norris of Simple Machine Brewing Company. Norris allowed Smith space is his brewery for two of the Smiths’ own fermentation tanks. After about a year and a half working out of Norris’ space, Tyler was ready to spread his wings and fly — opening Kitsune Brewing Co. with Rebecca on October of 2022.

Inspired by his love of Japanese culture, the brewery’s namesake refers to a Japanese spirit that serves as a protector. Many of the beers’ names and imagery also pay homage to Japanese culture. Currently Kitsune Brewing Co. features between 14 and 16 craft brews on tap that rotate frequently.

While Kitsune first became known for its IPAs, the brewery has since been making a name for itself in the world

of sour beers — as well as the Smiths’ unique ability to push the envelope to create something unique and even a little silly ... but that people will keep coming back for.

Kitsune’s Dirty Snowflake, for example, is actually a beer gray in appearance. “How far can we push it?” Tyler asks. “Are people willing to try a gray beer?” Turns out the answer is yes.

Kitsune Brewing Co. features a rotation of local food trucks that set up outside for guests, who are welcome enjoy their food inside the brewery.

Kitsune also boasts a “BYOF” (bring your own food) policy — guests of the brewery can bring in their own food or even have food delivered to the brewery while sipping some craft brews. In addition to the collaboration with local food trucks and vendors, Kitsune Brewing Co. features some collaboration brews with other local breweries such as Tombstone Brewing and Dark Sky Brewing Company.

Kitsune Brewing Co. also presents engaging activities such as trivia every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. (with themed trivia every other week) and bingo every Thursday. Happy hour is from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

As Kitsune’s popularity grows, the Smiths plan to can popular varieties and distribute them at local bottle shops. They also hope to open a ramen shop next door, which couldn’t be more fitting, as well as expand with additional brewing equipment

“We want to expand so we can get more tanks,” he says of their future growth. “Hopefully, we will be successful enough to need more space.”

With event season brewing in the Valley, Kitsune Brewing Co. features a special deal for WM Phoenix Open attendees. Guests that show their day-of ticket stub or wristband from either event will receive $1 off one pint of choice.

For more, visit kitsunebrewingco.com.

Dining Buck & Rider Opens North Scottsdale Location

Photos courtesy of Buck & Rider

Buck & Rider, known for its commitment to flying in fresh seafood seven days a week from around the world, proudly debuted its highly anticipated second location on the southeast corner of Scottsdale and Mayo at The Shops at Chauncey Ranch, located at 7015 E. Mayo Blvd. Doors officially opened to the public in mid-December, beginning with daily happy hour and dinner service to start and brunch and lunch menu offerings rolled out mid-January.

The 10,000-square-foot restaurant is inspired by the old seafood canaries on the west and east coasts and is nearly two times the size of the original location. Designed by Phoenix’s renowned restaurant architect, Cathy Hayes, diners are instantly transported to the coast while enjoying the addition of three private dining rooms for life’s greatest celebrations, a 10-seat sushi bar, two patios that bridge the indoor and outdoor connection – one for dining located in the front, and one located in the back featuring two fire pits, perfect for lounging with friends, family, and colleagues. The building’s architectural design is grand and timeless, holding up to 450 guests between the exterior patios and warm and intimate interior dining rooms. The wildly popular raw bar is also time-stamped and continuously updated to reflect the best fish and oyster selection flown in from around the world.

“We could not wait to bring the nostalgic Buck & Rider coastal dining experience to the backyard of all of our continued loyalists in North Scottsdale, who have been driving across town to see us at the Camelback location for years,” says Buck & Rider CEO Adam Strecker. “As we look to the next era of growth and strategically unveil every new Buck & Rider in the most thoughtful locations, each will showcase an individual identifying look and inspiration, while equally maintaining our

commitment to flying in the freshest seafood from around the world every single day, our impeccable service, hospitality and menu selections Buck & Rider has become known for.”

As a focal point in the restaurant, diners can watch their favorite Buck & Rider signature dishes being prepared in the completely open chef’s kitchen and look out for their favorite daily market catch and thoughtfully sourced seafood to be featured on the rotating split flat board.

Guests can also count on the iconic Buck & Rider happy hour, featuring a handcrafted signature cocktail list and premium well-drink program, plus a similar menu to the always popular Camelback location filled with coveted staples such as Baja shrimp ceviche, ahi tuna crispy rice, and smoked trout dip. Buck & Rider’s commitment to quality goes far beyond seafood. Steaks also come from the unique B&R Reserve beef program: USDA-certified, aged, and cut to Buck & Rider specifications.

“We share a deep commitment and passion to delivering value to our guests and community in all areas, from great price points and the best farmer and fishery partners to ingredients and environment,” says Buck & Rider COO Emily Collins. “We’re excited to introduce the values and integrity of the brand to a whole new audience of locals and visitors in such a vibrant and exciting neighborhood.”

As the brand continues to introduce strategic locations that speak to the evolution of the brand, the third Arizona location will debut at Epicenter at Agritopia in Gilbert in the fall of 2023. Follow along for additional menu, dining, and location updates on Instagram @ buckandrider_nscottsdale. Walk-ins are also welcome and encouraged or visit buckandrider.com to make a reservation.

Charity

Big Brothers Big Sisters Launches Statewide Campaign for Male Mentors

Photo courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ), along with chapters across the state of Arizona are highlighting the tremendous demand for male mentors across the state. Potential Big Brothers are urged to step up and support local youth through one-to-one mentoring.

“Having a great role model in your life is remarkably powerful,” says President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona Laura Capello. “As people are considering how to make positive changes in the new year, we

are encouraging them to make the big resolution to get involved, better themselves and the life of a child. Recruiting volunteers is one of our top priorities and this is a great time for people to get involved.”

BBBSAZ launched the Be Bold Be Big recruitment campaign, designed to be laser-focused on the current need of male mentors, or Big Brothers. While BBBSAZ encourages both female and male “Bigs” to sign up, the list for young boys waiting to be matched is considerable.

BBBSAZ shares the importance of mentoring and the tremendously positive impact it can have on the personal growth

and development of young people. It stresses the need for males to step up for local youth now more than ever. The Be Bold Be Big campaign includes network television, local radio, and digital media across the state of Arizona.

The core model of BBBSAZ is focused on building bridges in communities by connecting one adult with one child and supporting that match at every stage. The organization focuses on a child’s potential, and the role of positive adults in helping children achieve their best possible futures.

Learn more about BBBSAZ or how to get involved at bbbsaz.org/bebold.

Step Right Up for a Day of Fun at the Swift Carnival

The Swift Carnival is a day of free fun for 300 under-resourced elementary students, hosted by Swift Youth Foundation. Swift is a local nonprofit focused on providing mentorship and lifechanging experiences to economically disadvantaged youth.

The Sat., Feb. 25 event, held in the 32nd St and Greenway area, includes bouncy castles, dunks tanks, a petting zoo, and over 25 traditional carnival booths, all with the goal of introducing Swift’s mentorship programming to new and prospective participants.

Over 100 volunteers will help make the day possible by serving lunch, leading booths/activities, and/or serving

as a group leader and mentor. Group leaders will be responsible for leading small groups of participants through the carnival, while booth leaders will run a game or activity like potato sack races, limbo, pin the tail on the donkey, and more! If you or someone you know is interested in attending Swift Carnival, please visit swiftyouth.org/carnival2023. All ages are welcome but must be pre-registered.

Swift is also looking for additional sponsors for the carnival. Whether you are a local bakery that can donate dessert or a growing business looking to give back to the community, there is a sponsorship level for you! To learn more about sponsorships please email info@swiftyouth.org or visit swiftyouth.org/ carnival2023.

Swift Youth Foundation is an Arizona Qualified Charitable Organization that has been providing overnight camp experiences in the cool pines of Prescott for over 40 years. They host two sessions each summer for Valley youth who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend camp. Camp activities promote leadership development, teamwork, goal setting, and an appreciation for the outdoors. Swift’s volunteer mentor program, which includes Swift graduates, pairs teen mentors with campers to create a powerful alliance that changes the lives of both mentors and mentees. Their afterschool and Saturday programs facilitate the mentoring relationship throughout the year. If you want to make a difference in children’s lives through a tax credit donation, go to swiftyouth.org/ donate.

Photo courtesy of Swift Youth Foundation

Charity Child Abuse Prevention Nonprofit Saddles Up for

19th

Annual Childhelp Drive the Dream Gala

Country superstar Clint Black to headline fundraising event.

Photo courtesy of Childhelp

Childhelp, the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit dedicated to eliminating child abuse, hosts its 19th Annual Childhelp Drive the Dream Gala on Feb. 18 at The Phoenician, 6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale. The organization’s signature fundraising event draws celebrities, dignitaries, and donors from across America to support Childhelp’s lifesaving programs, which have served more than 12 million children through 63 years.

Grammy-award winner Clint Black is the headline entertainment for the gala, which will be emceed by television personalities Melissa Peterman and Rex Linn. Other acts include Western swing great Red Steagall, Nate Nathan & The MacDaddy-os, Rosevelt Rawls, and Steve Amerson. The gala will include dinner, dancing, and a live auction to benefit the Childhelp Children’s Center of Arizona, which has provided treatment, intervention, and investigation services to around 150,000 child survivors of abuse and neglect since opening in 1998.

Among those honored at the gala will be ‘the Queen of Country’ Reba McEntire, who will receive the Childhelp Woman of the World Award; Dream City Church Pastor Tommy Barnett, who will receive the Childhelp Man of the World Award; and the driving school Track Rekord will receive the Childhelp Nellie Jackson Award.

Sheila and Mike Ingram are chairing the event with cochairs Kim and Rod Cullum, and vice chairs Carol and

Jim Hebets. The theme for the event, “Giddy Up for Kids,” speaks to the use of equine-assisted therapy at Childhelp’s residential villages for abused and neglected children and the occasional pony visitors to the Childhelp Children’s Center of Arizona.

“We’ve always been a bit ‘country’ at Childhelp,” explains Childhelp co-founder and CEO Sara O’Meara about the night’s theme. “In the early days, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans were two of our biggest supporters, and our villages in California and Virginia are situated in idyllic country spaces, with horses, donkeys, and other animals becoming a part of the children’s lives.”

“And we’re in Arizona!” adds Childhelp Co-Founder and President Yvonne Fedderson, “It doesn’t get much more ‘western’ than right here. So, giddy up and give!”

Childhelp reaches tens of thousands of Arizona children and families each year through the Childhelp Children’s Center of Arizona; its prevention education program, Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe; its international child abuse helpline, the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD; childhelphotline.org); and other Childhelp programs and services, which serve children and families nationwide.

For more information about the event and for sponsorship opportunities, contact Katrina DeBaker at kdebaker@childhelp.org or call 480-922-8212.

By Shay Moser

At last, the morning temperatures are in the mid40s, and afternoons are in the 70s. But inside any of the four Valley locations of The Foundry Hot Yoga & Fitness Studios, the room is 105 degrees and 45% humidity for students coming to the 26&2 Hot Yoga class, also known as Bikram yoga, a set series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises.

“Giving yourself a burst of pressure, called hormetic stress, can help boost your body’s functioning and help you build a tolerance to bigger tensions,” says Niki Fillmore, teacher and chief operations officer of The Foundry. “Heat also allows the muscles to be warmer, which makes it easier to stretch while also increasing blood flow to areas of the body that are deficient in oxygen and nutrients.”

Every boutique fitness studio these days has an origin story, and The Foundry is no exception. Owners and siblings Nicole and Todd Deacon, born and raised in Scottsdale, started practicing yoga in 1995 at the Old Town Scottsdale location, the first hot yoga studio in Arizona. Their teacher, Cintra Brown, studied with Bikram for about a decade before moving from Los Angeles to Scottsdale. Deacon completed her Bikram Yoga Teacher Training in 2005 and continued volunteering and serving as faculty for over 15 trainings. In 2006, Nicole purchased the Paradise Valley location at Tatum and Thunderbird, known as Bikram Yoga Paradise Valley, until they rebranded as The Foundry in February 2017.

The Deacons have remained firmly rooted in the 26&2 hot yoga methodology over the 16 years of owning studios, touting how they’ve seen thousands of people transform their lives for the better. “Parents are learning to be more patient with their kids, athletes are healing injuries without surgery, individuals are freeing themselves from medications, and countless others are feeling more empowered in their jobs and relationships.”

THE RIGHT HOT YOGA CLASS FOR YOU

The Foundry strives to make hot yoga and fitness accessible to as many people as possible. “While I haven’t been a new student in a while, I still remember the first time I went and took my first class,” Fillmore says. “Being nervous to try something new is common, but the reward and the possibilities on the other side of trying a class are better health, increased energy, reduced pain and inflammation, and the list goes on and on. So, it’s worth it!”

For students who want to ease into the 90-minute hot yoga class or are recovering from an injury, The Foundry offers a Basic Yoga class sequence. It’s warm instead of hot, 60 minutes instead of 90, and features gentler poses that focus on opening the hips and strengthening the core.

They also offer Hot Flow Yoga, which is a Vinyasa-based practice. In this class, students learn arm balances and headstands while flowing to vibey music. This class is excellent for learning new poses while getting stronger and more flexible.

“Hot yoga at any level is physical, but it’s also energizing,” says Fillmore. “Students start standing taller out of confidence after just one class.”

But it’s not just hot yoga. The Foundry offers a variety of Hot Fitness classes that have become very popular among its members. Hot HIIT, Hot Pilates, and Hot Barre are available throughout the day at their studios. The fitness classes have louder music, and more energy, and hand weights and resistance bands create more strength and toning.

“We offer many ways to breathe, connect, and transform,” Fillmore says. Beyond their hot yoga and fitness classes, The Foundry offers workshops, meditations, teacher training, retreats, and group challenges throughout the year. “And you’re surrounded by a positive, like-minded community the whole time.”

SO, WHAT DOES THE FOUNDRY MEAN?

The Foundry is named after a metal foundry, which melts metal, and casts and creates pieces of artwork.

“The idea behind our name is that The Foundry is a place where people come to transform,” explains Fillmore. “Like the metal that is melted down and cast to create art in a metal foundry, people are coming into our studios, into The Foundry Hot Yoga & Fitness Studios, to melt down, recreate, reshape, and come out a new person. You are both the artist and the art. You decide who you are and what you want to be. The Foundry is where you create that change, that transformation.”

With their original Paradise Valley studio at Tatum and Thunderbird open since 2006, The Foundry has established quite a following. And now they have five studios in Arizona, including a brand-new studio in the heart of Arcadia at Indian School and 48th Street. They also have studios in TempeMesa, Avondale, and downtown Flagstaff. This year, they started franchising, and the first franchise opened in February in Thousand Oaks, California. Fillmore says The Foundry hopes to open more franchises with “intentional growth.”

Find locations, class schedules, and more online. New students get four classes for $40.

And be ready to sweat like it’s summer in Arizona.

Visit thefoundryyoga.com.

This content is sponsored by The Foundry.

The Foundry is a place where people come to transform, like the metal that is melted down and cast to create art in a metal foundry.

Kids’ Corner It’s Girl Scout Cookie Season!

How to support the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world.

Each year, Girl Scouts in Arizona participate in the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world: The Girl Scout Cookie Program. And this year it is not only bigger and better than ever, but longer as well. For the Girl Scouts–Arizona CactusPine Council (GSACPC), the local cookie season takes place for seven full weeks from Jan. 16 to March 5.

“As in years past, all Girl Scout Cookie proceeds stay local to help girls fund impactful projects to benefit the community; embark on amazing girl-led troop adventures; provide programs in STEM, the outdoors, life skills and entrepreneurship; maintain and improve four camp properties; and provide financial assistance that keeps Girl Scouting available and affordable for all girls,” says Mary Mitchell, co-CEO of GSACPC.

“We extended our cookie season by one week to support girls interested in selling our new, limitededition Raspberry Rally cookie, as Feb. 27 is the earliest date the flavor will be available for shipping from our baker. Now our community has more time to support girls and stock up on their favorite cookie

only be sold online from Feb. 27 to March 5, while supplies last.

NEW FINANCIAL LITERACY BADGES

Girl Scouts’ newly updated Financial Literacy badges offer entrepreneurial playbooks for every age level. From the Cookie Goal Setter badge earned as a Daisy to the Entrepreneur Accelerator for girls in high school, the Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches girls financial literacy, planning, budgeting, teamwork, innovative thinking, and confident decision making.

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE NIGHT, DEVIN BOOKER BUS AND PATCH REVEAL WITH THE PHOENIX SUNS

BRING HOME THE COOKIES 5K RUN/WALK –FEB. 25

Join GSACPC and State Forty Eight Foundation, for the second Bring Home the Cookies 5K Run/Walk on Feb. 25 at Westgate in Glendale. The family-friendly event, open to Girl Scout families, competitive runners, walkers, and the community at large, will start and finish at Westgate and feature music, food, and cookie booths. All registered participants will receive a Girl Scout goodie bag with a State Forty Eight branded 5K shirt, a package of Girl Scout Cookies, a medal, and more!

To register for the 5K, visit girlscoutsaz.org/5k and for more information on the local Girl Scout Cookie Season, visit girlscoutsaz.org.

flavors,” says Christina Spicer, co-CEO of GSACPC. In addition to the extended sale dates, here is a snapshot of everything as it relates to the 2023 cookie season across Central and Northern Arizona:

NEW RASPBERRY RALLY

Raspberry Rally – will join the nationwide lineup for the 2023 Girl Scout Cookie Program. A thin, crispy cookie infused with raspberry flavor and dipped in a delicious chocolaty coating, this must-have new cookie is first in the Girl Scout Cookie lineup to be exclusively offered for online direct shipment only while supplies last, enhancing girls’ e-commerce sales and entrepreneurial skills. Please note this cookie will

On Jan. 22, hundreds of Girl Scouts descended upon Footprint Center to collectively cheer on the Phoenix Suns in their showdown against the Memphis Grizzlies. Beyond that, as the game ended, dozens of Girl Scouts took over the plaza outside Footprint Center to sell cookies as well as REVEAL their new Girl Scout Devin Booker Bus. Even better? The local Girl Scouts also created a custom patch to commemorate the partnership, which they unveiled at the event.

“The minibus, made possible by a Devin Booker Starting Five $100,000 grant, will be used to transport girls to and from educational and character-building activities and experiences. Due to vandalism and theft of its prior vehicle, GSACPC had no way to transport girls to programs and events. The lack of transportation often meant that girls would not have an opportunity to participate in activities,” says Mitchell.

COLOR CHANGING FLOWERS

Sari on Science combines science and flowers in a fun Valentine’s Day experiment.

Whenyou give a flower a drink of water, where does the water go? My daughter and I recently investigated this very question, and thought it would be a fun way to combine science while making some custom colored flowers for Valentine’s Day.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

• 1 dozen white flowers (carnations work really well)

• Water

• Vase

• 4 glasses or larger cups

• Knife/box cutter

• Food coloring (multiple colors)

DIRECTIONS:

1. With an adult’s help, trim your flowers to a workable length, and ensure they are trimmed at an angle. Keep all your flowers in plain water until you are ready for the next step.

2. Together with your adult, use the knife to split three of the flowers straight down the center. Return to water for now.

3. Fill four glasses with water and up to 20 drops of food coloring. Each glass should have a different color of water.

4. Line up the cups next to each other and, using your split-stem flowers, place flowers straddling the cups so one side of stem is in one color, one side is in another.

5. Place one non-split flower in each cup of colored water, too. Leave the rest of your flowers in the plain water as a control.

6. Leave all flowers to sit for two to five days and make observations along the way! This is a good chance to make some predictions: what will happen to the flowers in colored water? Will the colors mix? Which colors will you see in the flowers first?

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

What did you notice about the flowers? Did any of your predictions come true? Take a look at the leaves, too—what do you notice? There’s some very cool science happening here. Flowers “drink” water almost like you would drink water through a straw. The flowers take up water through thin tubes called xylem in a process called capillary action.  As water evaporates from the leaves and petals of the flower (known as transpiration) and creates a low pressure system, more water is drawn up through the tubes because water molecules like to stick

together (this is called cohesion). The dye in the water travels up the tubes, too, but doesn’t evaporate, so it remains in the leaves and petals. Splitting the stems allows us to see how the tubes are dispersed in the flower stem, and where they end. Try splitting your flower stem into thirds or swapping colors of dye after a few days. What happens then? Happy experimenting!

Sari Custer is a lifelong 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.

Real Estate

Is the Crash Already Over?

inflation was slowing down, and interest rates started to go down.

Fast Forward to Dec. 29, 2022:

Michael Orr of the Cromford Report had this to say about the Cromford Market Index (CMI) chart:

“This table is quite shocking - the market balance is now swinging quickly towards sellers, yet this does not seem to be reflected in market commentary in the general media. This shows the advantage of measuring the housing market every day, rather than once a month. One month ago, the situation looked bleak for sellers.”

By Scott Gaertner, Associate Broker

The Market Cycle graphic above illustrates where I think we are in the real estate market. If I’m right, you’ll probably look at this article with skepticism at first, but you’ll soon start to have hope.

To illustrate why: On the graphic, November and December represent despair. The Cromford Market Index (CMI) is our best leading indicator that provides a short-term forecast for the balance of the resale homes market. Readers may remember that a CMI score of 100 is a balanced market. Above 100 favors sellers, and below 100 favors buyers. I am writing this in mid-January, and just 60 days ago, on Nov. 14, Cromford officially declared the Valley to be in a buyer’s market. Most of the Valley had been favoring buyers for some time, but on that day, the overall index dropped below 90 for the first time in 10 years––and was trending lower. Despair for sellers seemed a fair representation.

Both the monthly median price and the average price per foot fell sharply in November. These price drops were partly because it was clear that the buyers had the upper hand. But based on the data, the drops were likely bigger than they should have been. People often overreact to their natural tendency to expect the worst, which the last time was a crash. But this wasn’t a market crash; it was just a correction.

Pricing data is a lagging indicator, and prices stayed low in December, but leading indicators were starting to look better by mid-month. There were signs that

Here is the CMI chart today

SUPER SEASON

January is off to a great start as the first two weeks saw some meaningful declines in inflation and interest rates hovering at four-month lows! And the timing for this shift is perfect because the Super Selling Season begins very soon.

Every year the highest-selling season of the year starts after the final whistle of the Super Bowl. This year that comes as demand is increasing and supply is down. That is a textbook formula for appreciation. And this isn’t just any Super Selling Season.

After years of reduced travel due to COVID, this year is seeing a resurgence in visitors. And moreover, this year Phoenix is hosting The Super Bowl, WM Phoenix Open, Barrett Jackson Auction, and the Arabian Horse Show––all right here in town!

Not every city is in a seller’s market, but they are all in the green and trending that way rapidly.

The reason for the shift in the Valley is not just that supply has been falling rapidly, we are now seeing stronger demand. This may easily go unnoticed by those not paying close attention, but the numbers do not lie. Unlike pricing, the CMI is a leading indicator. The Fed could screw us up by raising rates, but if this trend continues, we have seen the bottom of the market, and the correction is complete.

Scott Gaertner is an Associate Broker with Keller Williams Arizona Realty who for the past 35+ years has helped more people find their lifestyle niche in the Scottsdale North area than anyone else. He also contributes his thoughts on the real estate market and lifestyle interests in the area and is the creator of ConnectingScottsdaleNorth.com. For additional info, visit scottgaertnergroup.com or call 480-634-5000.

Home Refresh Your Home with These Design Trends

By StatePoint

With travel returning to normal, there’s a renewed interest in seeing the world but you don’t have to go far to bring the beautiful details of faraway destinations into your home.

With this in mind, FrogTape brand painter’s tape and celebrity interior designer Taniya Nayak have identified the top design trends for 2023, all with an eye to how travel can inspire home décor.

Redrock Renewal: Breathe fresh air and renewed energy into your space with “Redrock Renewal,” which incorporates both nature and spirit through earthy tones paired with bold influences of turquoise, clay, and olive. Embrace a clean, light slate layered with simple textures to create a room that is calm, joyful, serene, and spiritual. This trend can make a big impact in any space through small details like textured pillows, cozy blankets, and clay vases.

Bohemian Bazaar: The “Bohemian Bazaar” style is about creating an environment that emboldens everyone in it to live a vibrant, authentic life. To achieve this look, add a pop of color where it’s least expected, like mixing chairs in different shades of fabric around the table or adding bright, bold hues to an otherwise small, dark hallway. Inspired by the people, culture, and food of destinations like Morocco, India, and Africa, this trend merges the details of handcrafted goods with soulful experiences by encouraging the mixing of patterns and colors.

Nordic Nature: “Nordic Nature” encourages a pure, clean, and fresh space by bringing elements of the outdoors into your home. The palette is reflective of a Scandinavian aesthetic, consisting of concrete, wood, and crisp white walls to create a space with natural, modern, and organic appeal. Look for unique opportunities to make nature-inspired but daring statements that balance the rustic feel with an uncluttered and contemporary vibe.

Apply a subtle concrete layer to your walls for added interest, movement, and texture. Before you begin, tape the edges with Nayak’s preferred painter’s tape, FrogTape, to keep lines sharp and neat.

Midtown Modern: It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and excitement of a fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle, but the “Midtown Modern” movement is about turning your place into a space to pause and savor every moment of each day. Implement saturated hues like black or navy to create an urban, contemporary vibe. Elevate the look with plush fabrics like velvet, wool, and satin. Complete the room by adding a special sparkle, with statement pieces that have bright, brass or metal finishes.

“If your hardware is losing its luster, remove it and spray paint it with a new finish for a fresh new look,” recommends Nayak.

Let the sights and experiences of the world not only inspire your adventures, but also your home.

Who This Event Is For:

Legal

Estate Planning is a Gift of Love to Your Family

By Libby Banks, The Law Office of Libby Banks, PLLC, Estate Planning

With the arrival of Valentine’s Day, our thoughts turn to love, and looking for ways to show our family and others dear to us how much we care with roses, chocolates, jewelry, or an item they’ve always wanted.

One way to show you care is to get a will or trust in place. This is a gift that will be there when you are no longer around. It can help ease the stress and grief by making the management of your estate smoother and avoiding uncertainty, or family fights.

Many of my clients come to put a plan in place after a stressful and difficult time handling the estate of a parent, sibling, or other loved one who didn’t plan ahead. Anyone who has gone through the process of a probate court proceeding or wrapping up a messy estate knows just how important an estate plan will be to the family when the time comes.

Without a cohesive and thoughtful estate plan, your family will not have any guidance on your wishes. They will spend much more time trying to wrap up your estate if you don’t have a plan. If you’ve left a real mess, your family may have to expend a large sum of money and time and effort to clean it up. Worse, your family may end up fighting.

A good plan can also avoid disputes among the

beneficiaries. Time after time when I handled family estate fights, clients said they would never speak to their siblings or stepchildren or stepparent again. Others lamented that the messy estate issues were breaking the family apart. I value family highly and these cases broke my heart. I went into estate planning to help clients avoid these fights.

For those who love you, it’s a gift to be sure it’s easy to help you when you need it. A proper estate plan means that if you are incapacitated, your agent can manage your financial affairs. A healthcare power of attorney appoints the people you trust to make medical decisions if you cannot.

It’s not your typical Valentine’s Day present, but a proper estate plan shows your love. I’ve had many clients talk about what a gift their parents left them –not the money they inherited, but the plan that made it easier for them to administer the estate, with the certainty they were following their parents’ wishes.

Give your loved ones a meaningful gift by getting your estate plan in place. We give you the gift of a complimentary initial consultation or review of your existing plan. Call us at 602-375-6752 or visit my website at www. libbybanks.com.

Remember,

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EmpowerRF is a new solution for life changing therapies designed for women. EmpowerRF treats a broad range of conditions including:

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EmpowerRF can also be utilized for enhanced cosmetic appearance

Health

Thyroid Health and Naturopathic Medicine

By Dr. Jenna Dye, Naturopathic Physician

The thyroid is a small butterfly shaped gland in the front of your neck. The thyroid produces thyroid hormones that support many important functions in the body. This can include metabolism support, temperature control, digestive health, and support for the hair, skin, and nails. Thyroid hormones also play a role in the cardiovascular system and mood balance.

THERE ARE TWO MAJOR TYPES OF THYROID DYSFUNCTION.

Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which the body does not make enough thyroid hormone. In some cases, this condition can be caused by an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The immune system produces antibodies that target the thyroid gland to be attacked, which can cause a decrease in thyroid hormone and, in some cases, can cause the thyroid gland to enlarge. Patients with hypothyroidism often have symptoms of fatigue or brain fog, cold hands and feet, constipation, dry skin or hair loss, and weight gain.

Hyperthyroidism: In this situation, the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. There can also be an autoimmune component that involves antibody production called Grave’s disease. The thyroid gland is attacked by the immune system causing an overproduction of thyroid hormones and often an enlargement of the thyroid gland. The most common symptoms are elevated heart rate or blood pressure, diarrhea, anxiety, excessive sweating, and abnormal weight loss. Over time, if this condition is unmanaged, it can cause stress on the cardiovascular system, bone loss, and eye disease.

Proper diagnosis and evaluation of thyroid disorders are important. TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is the most common hormone evaluated for thyroid function. It is released by the brain and tells the thyroid to produce thyroid hormone. Although it can be a good indication of how the thyroid

is functioning, there is often more to the picture. T4 (thyroxine) is the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It must be converted to T3 (triiodothyronine), which is the active thyroid hormone utilized by the tissues. If thyroid dysfunction is suspected, a full thyroid panel should be checked. This includes the TSH, the Free T3 and the Free T4. Thyroid antibodies should be checked if autoimmune disease is suspected.

There are many factors that influence how well the thyroid functions. In naturopathic medicine, we look at nutrient deficiencies such as selenium, B12, zinc and vitamin D. We focus on diet by eliminating foods that are inflammatory. We support the body’s response to stress by supporting the adrenal glands and reducing stress in our everyday life. We also focus on the digestive system by healing the gut lining, balancing the gut flora, and supporting regular bowel movements. Thyroid hormone replacement may be indicated in some situations and there are many options based on a patient’s individual needs.

Naturopathic medicine can be a great support for thyroid health. A detailed health history, physical exam, and proper laboratory evaluation can ensure a targeted approach for your specific health care needs.

Dr. Jenna Dye is a licensed naturopathic physician. Her role is to support the body’s foundation to restore and maintain optimal health. Together with her patients, this is achieved by identifying and removing barriers that may be impacting health while creating a healing environment. For more information visit drjennadye.com.

Health

8 Essentials for a Healthy

By Family Features

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and globally.

To help Americans measure their cardiovascular health and make meaningful lifestyle changes, the American Heart Association introduced Life’s Essential 8, a checklist that explains eight habits and health measures that affect heart and brain health and overall well-being.

The checklist incorporates knowledge gained from more than 2,400 scientific papers on cardiovascular health published since it was originally introduced as Life’s Simple 7. It has been expanded to apply to anyone age 2 and older, and now includes sleep as the eighth cardiovascular health component.

“We felt it was the right time to conduct a comprehensive review of the latest research to refine the existing metrics and consider any new metrics that add value to assessing cardiovascular health for all people,” says Donald M. Lloyd-Jones, M.D., Sc.M., EAHA, president of the American Heart Association.

Start making positive changes to improve your heart health with these eight essentials:

EAT BETTER

A heart-healthy diet encompasses a high intake of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes; whole grains and fat-free and low-fat dairy; lean protein; and low intake of sodium, red and processed meats and sweetened foods and drinks. Eat whole foods and rely on healthy non-tropical oils for cooking.

GET ACTIVE

For most adults, the target level of moderate physical activity is 150 minutes or more per week or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity physical activity. Kids ages 6 and older need one hour or more of play and activities per day.

QUIT TOBACCO AND NICOTINE

Nicotine makes your heart rate and blood pressure skyrocket while carbon monoxide and tobacco rob your body of

Heart

oxygen. There are about 4,000 chemical components found in cigarettes; most of them harmful. Reducing your health risk means eliminating exposure to any form of nicotine, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices, as well as limiting your exposure to secondhand smoke.

GET ADEQUATE SLEEP

Getting a good night’s sleep is vital to cardiovascular health. Measured by average hours of sleep per night, the optimal level is seven to nine hours daily for adults. Ideal daily sleep ranges for children are 10 to 16 hours per 24 hours for ages 5 and younger; nine to 12 hours for ages 6-12; and eight to 10 hours for ages 13 to 18.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT

Although the measure of body mass index (BMI) is not a perfect metric, it is easily calculated and widely available; therefore, BMI remains a reasonable gauge to assess weight categories that may lead to health problems. A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is associated with the highest levels of cardiovascular health.

MANAGE CHOLESTEROL LEVELS

Non-HDL (“bad”) cholesterol, rather than total cholesterol, is a reasonable predictor of cardiovascular risk. Non-HDL cholesterol can be measured without fasting, which means it can be assessed at any time of day and reliably calculated.

MANAGE BLOOD GLUCOSE

When there is not enough insulin or the body does not use insulin efficiently, blood glucose levels accumulate in the bloodstream. Hemoglobin A1c readings measure your long-term blood glucose control. A normal A1c is below 5.7%; between 5.7%-6.4% indicates prediabetes.

UNDERSTAND BLOOD PRESSURE READINGS

An optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg while hypertension is defined as a 130 to 139 mm Hg systolic pressure (the top number in a reading) or 80 to 89 mm Hg diastolic pressure (bottom number).

For more ideas to achieve optimal cardiovascular health, or to assess your health and lifestyle risks, visit heart.org/ lifes8.

Why You Still Have Sciatica Pain (And How To Get Rid Of It For Good)

-By Leading USA Sciatica Expert, Dr. Tom Padilla

Doeveryday activities like nding comfortable sleeping positions and walking feel impossible because of sciatica pain? You may nd it hard to focus on enjoying those around you because you’re distracted by your pain. You may have already tried “everything,” but the di culty is knowing which things will help and which won’t.

Some sciatica is caused by muscular weakness and restriction, while others can be caused by sti joints. Ultimately, certain exercises may help some sciatica, but make other types worse. To best help you, I’ve compiled a list of tips that will help anyone with sciatica regardless of the type to reduce daily pain.

Most people with sciatica just want to know if there’s a solution that actually lasts. Solutions that used to work, don’t work any longer. Eventually you nd yourself in a rabbit hole, searching high and low for solutions that hopefully help you avoid surgery.

You’ve likely already tried many di erent things. Usually the list includes massage, stretching, chiropractic, and di erent exercises.

One of my patients, Marian, had tried everything above on top of back surgery, unspecialized physical therapy, pain management, spinal injections, spinal electrostimulation, acupuncture, and dietary analysis.

Marian told me, “When you go through this, you learn how many things you can no longer do if you can’t stand or walk.”

You don’t have to choose between surgery and giving up the activities that you love.

Sciatica is so common because many of the solutions out there just take one area into consideration. e muscles, the joints, nerves, strength, weakness, etcetera. e simple truth is that sciatica is a complex condition with many contributing factors. e core issue, which has been proven time and again in the best research, is that the body has developed compensation patterns in order to protect itself. ese patterns are hardwired into the brain and will continue to persist unless they are xed.

is pattern is what CAUSES the tight muscles and the sti joints. ese tight muscles and sti joints eventually pinch the nerve, causing sciatica. erefore, correcting the pattern is the way to target the true root cause. No matter how long you’ve su ered, you can still get your life back. No surgery. No pills.

6 Reasons Why Your Sciatica May Be Lasting Longer an It Should:

1. You tried looking up exercises to do on your own for your sciatica. But with many “causes,” it’s di cult to gure out which exercises are right for you. is is why some exercises can seem to make it better, but some make it much worse.

2. You tried a few relaxing massages and it felt good for a few days but then it came back.

3. You tried chiropractic care and it eased a bit, but the nagging sensation is still there.

4. You tried waiting for it to go away on its own. at didn’t work…

5. You went to the doctor’s o ce, and they gave you pain meds or nerve medication to numb the pain. ey told you to come back in 6 weeks if it didn’t work.

6. You went to a physical therapist who put you on the same exercises everyone else with sciatica gets…then they left you with an assistant who only half watched your technique.

Why What You’ve Tried Hasn’t Worked

If any of these things have happened to you,

unfortunately it’s common. e issue with a lot of these methods is that they focus on addressing the symptoms, not the root cause of your sciatica.

What To Avoid

Here are 3 things that can make your sciatica pain worse.

Stretching: If you’ve been stretching to x your sciatica and it hasn’t worked yet, it likely won’t. More often than not, sciatica has come up because of tight muscles. Stretching is for short muscles. Tight muscles are tight because they’re compensating for a weak muscle nearby. Stretching will relieve them for a little bit, but it will come back unless the weakness is resolved.

Crossing Your Legs: Avoid crossing your legs at all costs. is can cause stretching in the back of your hip which compresses the sciatic nerve. It also causes twisting in your hips and pelvis which can put stress on the nerves in your back.

Resting: Certain activities right now might make your sciatica worse, but that doesn’t mean you should restrict all of your movements. If certain things are painful, like walking, lifting, sitting, it’s important to nd the root cause so you can start moving properly and stay active.

How to Fix Sciatica for the Long Term

So many of the “solutions” we try only provide temporary relief because they’re not targeting the root cause. And without getting to the source of the problem, sciatica pain will continue to return because the cause was never addressed. Marian learned this the hard way, and unfortunately a lot of people do. After addressing the root cause, Marian says, “I’m back to walking 3-4 miles a day; I can lift and hold my grandbabies; I can go to parties without having to sit in a corner; I can go shopping again.” e only thing she’d change? Finding a specialist to help her address the root cause sooner. “I could have avoided a lot of doctors’ appointments and needless and expensive treatments, not to mention losing a couple of years to my other attempts.”

Tips and Exercises to Crush Sciatica Pain for Good

Get a special sciatica report full of more tips to ease your pain fast so you can get back to picking up your kids or just standing and walking. Get your sciatica report by calling or texting 480-482-0651 and asking for a copy, or emailing info@thedoctorsofpt. com and saying “Send me a sciatica report.”

Or, if you’d like to meet with a specialist one on one for a personalized diagnosis and roadmap to healing, ask about scheduling a free discovery visits. e doctors believe in teaching you about your body and nding an approach that works best for you. rough getting to know your history, they’ll help you identify the approach that will target the root cause of your sciatica.

FEBRUARY HAPPENINGS

ARIZONA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

When: Feb. 4 – April 2

Where: 12601 E. U.S. Highway 60, Gold Canyon

What: Don’t miss raucous revelry at the annual Arizona Renaissance Festival!

A medieval amusement park, a 50-acre circus, a 16-stage theater, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament, and a feast -- all rolled into one non-stop, daylong family adventure.

Info: arizona.renfestinfo.com

WM PHOENIX OPEN

When: Feb. 6 -12

Where: TPC Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale

What: Known as both the “Greenest Show on Grass” for its sustainability efforts — it’s the world’s largest zero-waste event — and as The People’s Open, for short, the tournament annually brings golf’s biggest names to TPC Scottsdale for the PGA Tour’s best-attended event. The tournament consistently ranks among the best golf tournaments and, in past years, has drawn upwards of 600,000 fans.

Info: wmphoenixopen.com

BALLET ARIZONA: GISELLE

When: Feb. 9 - 12

Where: 5601 N. 16th St., Phoenix

What: This ghost-filled, haunting masterpiece is one of the most beloved and romantic ballets of all time. Giselle tells the tragic yet passionate tale of a lovely young woman who dies of a broken heart. The ballet is famous for the Wilis, maiden spirits who take revenge on the young nobleman that betrayed Giselle. Achingly beautiful, Giselle is an enrapturing work of art that draws audiences in with themes of enduring love, tragedy, and romance.

Info: themadison.org

“THE FROG PRINCE”

When: Feb. 16 - 26

Where: Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St.

What: Marion may still be a maid, but she is her own hero. When she learns of a nefarious scheme, Marion escapes to Sherwood Forest where she meets the one and only Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. However, their reputation doesn’t quite meet reality and Marion must help lead them against the Sheriff of Nottingham and Prince John – saving England and into a legend!

Info: mesaartscenter.com

“THE GLASS MENAGERIE”

When: Feb. 16 – March 5

Where: Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix

What: Amanda lives in an illusion of recapturing her faded Southern Belle glory. Her daughter Laura lives in a fantasy world of delicate glass figurines, and her son Tom dreams poetically of a world beyond the back stoop. When Tom brings home a gentleman caller to meet his sister, their lives are upturned. “The Glass Menagerie” weaves these lives into a heart-stopping dance of hopes pursued and dreams betrayed.

Info: atc.org

QUALITY ARTS & CRAFTS MARKET

When: Feb. 18

Where: 13623 N. 32nd St., Phoenix, southeast corner of Thunderbird and 32nd Street.

What: We’re back for a sixth season! Enjoy top quality, handmade items by the Neighborhood Artisans Network from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. You’ll find textile crafts, artwork, jewelry, laser engraving, home décor, gourd art, woodworking, jams, paper art, and more! Shop locally and support your neighborhood artists. This is a hand selected group of artists and crafters working collaboratively to promote and sell their work. There is no entrance fee. The market is steps away from the Original Breakfast House in The Rock parking lot. Info: facebook.com/nephoenix

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP HOOP DANCE CONTEST

When: Feb. 18 - 19

Where: Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix

What: Top American Indian and Canadian First Nations hoop dancers will compete at the Heard Museum for the prestigious World Champion title and cash prizes. At this two-day competition, men and women compete on an equal field.

Info: heard.org

ARIZONA STRONG BEER FESTIVAL

When: Feb. 18

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

What: Explore new brews and delight in your favorite breweries, while enjoying a fun-filled day with friends and family at the iconic Strong Beer Festival presented by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild. Info: saltriverfields.com/strong-beerfest-feb-18

INDIE FILM FEST 2023

When: Feb. 21 - 25

Where: Downtown Phoenix

What: This visual three-day extravaganza in downtown Phoenix includes dramatic and documentary

features, short films, and multimedia installations. There are also host filmmaker table readings, panel discussions, and live music events all over downtown Phoenix.

Info: indiefilmfest.com

“PAW PATROL” LIVE

When: Feb. 24 - 26

Where: Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix

What: Nickelodeon’s hit show “PAW Patrol” is on a roll with live tour! The whole family will enjoy a PAWsome show complete with heroic characters, fun songs and dances, interactive elements, and captivating storylines!

Info: seatgeek.com/paw-patrol-livetickets

STEMS & GEMS

When: Feb. 24 - 26

Where: Fountain Hills Fountain, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills

What: Now in its 49th year, this threeday juried art fair features nearly 500 artists and artisans from across the United States and around the globe and attracts 200,000+ visitors. Food booths, beer garden, and seating areas abound throughout the venue, with great breakfast, lunch, and rest stops situated at locations in the middle and at both ends of the festival area.

Info: allevents.in/fountain hills/stemsand-gems-is-at-fountain-festival-of-finearts-spring/200023430325144

JURASSIC QUEST

When: Feb. 24 – 26

Where: Bell Bank Park, 6321 S. Ellsworth Rd., Mesa

What: The classic indoor adventure is back! Jurassic Quest and sky-scraping dinosaurs bring supersized family fun. Get up close to life-size, realistic dinos, and even see them move and roar! Whether the dinos had skin that was

CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 38

scaly, feathers or fur, Jurassic Quest has spared no expense to bring the dinosaurs to life.

Info: bellbankpark.com

MARICOPA COUNTY HOME SHOW

When: Feb. 24 – 25

Where: State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Way, Glendale

What: The Home & Garden Show features 850 vendor booths, local experts, and inspiration all in one place for one weekend only.

Info: maricopacountyhomeshows.com

INNINGS FESTIVAL

When: Feb. 25 – 26

Where: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe

What: Innings Festival is a two-day event that will feature rock, pop, and country performances, culinary demos, as well as curated food vendors, fun family activations, and appearances by professional baseball players. This year’s festival features Green Day, Eddie Vedder, Randy Johnson, and more.

Info: inningsfestival.com

BEER, BOURBON, BARBEQUE AND BANDS FESTIVAL

When: March 3 & 4

Where: Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West, 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler

What: Pedal Haus Brewery and SanTan Brewing Company host the Beer, Bourbon, Barbeque and Bands Festival. Featuring an impressive lineup of bands, award-winning beers and bourbon, and a lineup of world-class barbeque including Pork on a Fork, West Alley BBQ, Honey Bear’s BBQ, Joe’s Real BBQ, and more.

Info: eventbrite.com/e/beer-bourbonbbq-festival-tickets-500870074877

SUDOKU ANSWER from page 39

Entertainment

Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates

By Tony Beal

IN THEATERS

this film isn’t awful, you won’t walk out feeling much about it.

ON PEACOCK

“Sick”

Two girls quarantining during COVID find themselves stalked by a killer.

“M3GAN”

A human-like doll made to relate to its creator’s niece has deadly consequences for anyone involved.

What’s shown in the trailers for “M3GAN” is exactly what you get and it’s done well. It’s cheesy in the right ways that makes for great entertainment, carried primarily by Amie Donald/ Jenna Davis’ creepy and funny work as the title character. Combined with solid work from Allison Williams and Violet McGraw, it fits within a story. The kills are over-the-top in their own way, and keep you engaged. Plot wise, it’s nothing new and may feel thin but it is still serviceable in the end. It’s also more humorous than scary but it still delivers in its fun value, and it’s better than it could have been in different hands.

“Plane”

Much like its title, “Plane” is simple and to the point and delivers a very satisfying action film. Through a mixture of plane sequences, gunfights, and more, you’ll never get bored of the action in the film as it changes things up enough throughout. At the same time, it’s surprisingly patient, allowing for the characters to breathe and take in their situation rather than move from one bit to the other. They are still likable enough too, even if not the most in-depth, and a lot of that is thanks to the performances from Gerard Butler and Mike Colter. The intensity is strengthened by the brutality of the picture, though the script does make some odd choices regarding casualties. As a result, some of its characterizations could be considered outdated. But as a throwback to old school action thrillers, it’s a success.

Two pool cleaners stage a party at Lebron James’ house to make some quick cash.

It’s always tough to remake a film considered a classic, but “House Party” feels so dull and done just for the sake of it. In a strange way, the film feels like a rough cut with its bizarre editing choices of scenes lasting too long or too little, as well as sudden introductions of characters and plot points. At points it is bizarrely funny, but you can’t help but expect more from a script by Stephen Glover & Jamal Olori of FX’s “Atlanta,” both in terms of humor and characters (none of whom you root for like the original). Same for the directing, which has little inspiration despite being directed by Calmatic of “Old Town Road” fame. Even the cameos seem to have little thought put into them, clearly shot in one or two takes and to give the film some extra oomph in marketing (the sole exception, Kid Cudi being an exaggerated version of himself). A comedy without laughs is a disastrous result, and while

“Sick” is a movie that’s incredibly satisfied with itself despite having nothing to offer. Its setting during COVID is barely touched upon save for a notable ending moment, otherwise it has nothing to say about human selfishness or any other potential topics that could parallel with the genre, it’s merely there to be relevant. The screenplay offers one-dimensional characters, more accurately archetypes, and a villain without personality or intimidation, which is the worst thing you can do for a slasher film. The director, John Hyams, tries to heighten it with the near hourlong chase, but there’s only so much that you can care about when it’s in service of these characters and plot. Boring, obnoxious, and not even scary, “Sick” is the first true stinker of the year.

NEW RELEASES

February 3

“Knock At the Cabin”

“80 For Brady”

February 10

“Magic Mike’s Last Dance”

“Titanic” 25th Anniversary Re-Release

“Sharper” (Limited)

“Somebody I Used to Know” (Amazon Prime)

February 17

“Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania”

“Return To Seoul” (Limited)

February 24

“Cocaine Bear”

“Jesus Revolution”

An airline pilot must work with a dangerous killer to save his passengers from a hostage situation.

“House Party”

Sat-Sun:10am - 3pm

DOWN

1. D.E.A. agent

2. On a deck, perhaps

3. Pad

4. Gem State

5. Depended on

6. From a distance

7. *Reusable one

8. Hacienda brick

9. Cleopatra’s necklace

10. Moonfish

11. Boundary line

12. Looker or ogler

15. Capable of movement

20. One of the Muses

22. Shoshonean

24. Railyard worker

25. Gabbana’s partner

26. Relating to bees

27. Edward Teach’s facial feature

29. *Prepared food department

31. Contributes

32. Get ready to drive (2 words)

33. Type of wheat

34. *Ricotta and eggs section

36. Semiaquatic tetrapod, for short

38. Sips from a flask?

42. Bar by estoppel

45. Novelist Honor� de ____

49. Blackbird dessert

51. Paragons

54. Galactic path

56. Pomp 57. Be unsuccessful 58. Dramatic part 59. Sportscaster Andrews 60. JFK or ORD postings 61. Japanese alcoholic beverage 62. Tiny amount

Getaway

GET WILDE!

ESCAPE TO SEDONA FOR VALENTINE’S AND GALENTINE’S DAY

Valentine’s Day is meant for celebrating love, but did you know there is another February holiday growing in popularity? Galentine’s Day is becoming a nationwide celebration of friendships.

We can’t think of a more perfect excuse to get out of town and visit the beautiful Red Rocks in Sedona. Whether you’re looking to rekindle that spark with your partner or looking to escape with best friends, we found The Wilde Resort and Spa is the perfect place for a match made in heaven.

THE WILDE RESORT

Valentine’s Day weekend also happens to fall on one of the busiest weekends of the year for Valley residents. If you would rather not fight the crowds and compete with 70,000-plus people traveling in for the big game, get out of Phoenix and head to Sedona!

Just an hour-and-a-half drive north on the I-17 will get you to Sedona, where you

can experience amazing red rock views, outdoor adventures and stay at a wellnessfocused resort. The Wilde has onsite yoga classes, crystals for meditation, a walking labyrinth, pet-friendly accommodations, firepits for roasting s’mores, and even a lecture on vortexes, something travelers from around the world visit Sedona specifically to experience.

The Wilde Resort is currently offering Valentine’s Day packages including transportation to and from the resort, a Red Rock Master Suite, roses, candles, prosecco, chocolate strawberries, couples massage, spa facial, bubble bath, romcom movie showing, scenic balloon flight, wine tour and tasting, dinner at Rene, and breakfast at Racal.

In addition, Sedona hosts a variety of Valentine’s weekend events including a saxophone concert, dance parties, and couples paint night.

THE WILDE HAVEN SPA

After you leave the hustle and bustle of Phoenix, find time to reconnect with your partner or relax with your friends. The Wilde Haven Spa offers Sedona-inspired treatments that incorporate local scents and sounds. Check their onsite calendar at check-in for special guest participation events like the full moon crystal alchemy sound bowls.

Their Valentine’s Day couples specialty

treatment, Decadent Duo, is available the entire month of February and features a couples massage with the spa’s artisancrafted chocolate shea butter, dimly lit room, fresh scattered rose petals, aromatherapy, and serene sounds to heighten the senses.

For friends looking to add a spa service to their weekend, the Wilde’s onsite spa has many options – 26 different hand-crafted treatments to be exact, for a customized experience. The Wild Haven Spa also features hand-crafted items like jewelry, essential oils, healing crystals, artwork, and even sells the plush robes and southwestinspired pillows found in The Wilde’s rooms – all made by local artisans.

RASCAL RESTAURANT

After spa services or adventures out in Sedona, dinner and drinks are certainly going to be on your mind. The Wilde resort teamed up with award-winning

Chef Mercer Mohr to create the onsite restaurant, Rascal, which is self-described as an American diner with an exciting menu of new dishes and old favorites.

Rascal has indoor and outdoor dining options and a wide range of wine and craft cocktails. After dinner, grab a drink and head upstairs to see the surrounding scenery Sedona is famous for on the rooftop.

No matter what you do, or where you go this Valentine’ Day and Galentine’s Day, make sure to set aside time to celebrate as lovers and friends. For information on The Wilde Resort and Spa, visit thewilderesort.com.

Photos courtesy of The Wilde Resort

WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE OUR TEAM

Our business is proudly owned and operated by

means we know the importance of listening, following directions and staying on task to get the job done right the first time. With Elite Turf, you’ll get:

• Our 15 years of experience and expertise in every job

• Free estimates no matter what service we’re providing

• Every job has a seasoned project coordinator that is assigned to your project to ensure a quality install from start to finish

• We also specialize in pavers, rock, plants, irrigation, landscape lighting, colored concrete curbing and much more

We also offer a 15-year warranty for extra protection and peace of mind. You deserve a fantasticlooking yard, so we’ll gladly give it to you quickly, safely and effectively with an artificial turf installation. For more information on why we’re different from the rest, reach out to our team at your convenience.