Paradise Valley View, December 2022

APS wants $460 million more per year.

should be asking questions.

By Erick O’Donnell

The simplest and most effective way to ensure you’re getting a good deal is to ask plenty of questions. That’s exactly what our customers do when talking with our sales representatives. It’s what we do when talking to our panel suppliers and prospective new hires. It’s what anyone should do before making an investment or purchase, especially in cases where the seller isn’t volunteering much information up front.

Since late October, when APS proposed a $460-million increase to its total yearly revenue, customers of Arizona’s largest power supplier have found themselves in just such a situation. APS has stated that the increase is necessary to maintain grid reliability and make investments in clean power. And it says it would produce only a modest cost increase for customers, increasing electric bills by 13.6 percent.

Yet, despite amounting to a file almost half a gigabyte in size, the official proposal document that APS submitted to the Arizona Corporation Commission neglects to address some questions that must be answered before we can feel the increase is warranted and fair. We would like to share those questions with you here.

First, how widely will that “average” increase vary among different types of household, especially when it comes to size? All things equal, a bigger home is less energy efficient than a smaller one. Therefore, owners of larger houses are likely to see cost increases out of proportion to how much their house’s size exceeds the average.

That’s bad news for homeowners in the northern reaches of APS’s service area, which have a high concentration of newer—hence, bigger—houses. According to data from the National Association of Realtors, three of Surprise’s four ZIP codes have a bigger median home size than the statewide median of 1,878. The median floor space of a home in ZIP code 85383, in Peoria’s far northwest region, is 2,537 square feet—35 percent more than the state median. (Bear in mind that a home’s interior space is a three-dimensional quantity and therefore increases alongside floor space—a two-dimensional quantity—at a greater exponential rate, so we’re likely understating the magnitude of the size variation.)

If APS has tried to calculate more detailed estimates for different households, they’re nowhere to be found in its gargantuan proposal—which, despite amounting to an eye-watering 2,648 pages, has no index or table of contents. (Thank goodness for the word-search tool on digital document viewers, at least.)

In that case, if the commission approves the increase, then ratepayers will just have to wait for their bills to come in December of next year (when the hike is proposed to take effect). If the past is any guide, then there could be some nasty surprises in store for ratepayers—surprises like the $50 increase to Phoenix APS customer Ron Geddling’s bill in 2017 after that year’s hike, which the company had predicted would boost monthly bills by just $6. What he wrote to the commission that year conveys the impact more effectively than any set of numbers, so we’ll just reproduce his message (which was originally quoted by The Arizona Republic) here:

“This is literally taking food directly out of my mouth,” Geddling wrote to the commissioners. “This is absolutely the worst robbery of my money I have ever seen […]. I will now be going hungry in order to make APS a little richer.”

Given the history of wide gaps between the official estimates of “average” bill increases and actual ratepayer charges, should we be confident that this latest estimate reflects what is actually coming to the typical homeowner in Surprise, Peoria, or Scottsdale? It’s not just customers’ individual experiences that give us pause. In 2017, a third-party audit commissioned by APS’s regulator found that the company, in citing the $6 figure as its estimate of the average bill increase, did not mention important changes to several surcharges. That finding and others are described in an article from Arizona’s NBC affiliate, 12 News: “Audit report: APS earned $77 million more than expected in 2018, 80% from customers”.

Here are a few more questions we would like to hear answered: Why, if APS is committed to clean energy, has the company repeatedly slashed the buyback rate for solar power (the means by which distributed solar is financed)? Why has it spent its money (ratepayers’ money) to elect commissioners favorable to its views on solar-energy policy? (That, by the way, is according to its own admissions and its own documents, which it released to the Corporation Commission in 2019; see “APS admits spending millions in 2014 election of energy regulators,” Arizona Capitol Times.)

There’s more than a year to go until the commission is due to vote on this proposal. Who knows? If, between now and then, some ratepayers show up to the agency’s meetings (or write emails) and share what’s on their mind, then maybe we’ll see a little further into this black box. Until then, all we can do is ask questions.

But that’s not all you can do. You can help offset some of these increases by adding solar to your home. Call SunSolar Solutions today at 623-562-9009 to have a design prepared for your home free of charge.

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411: The Latest Local News You Need to Know City News

PAGODA LANE OPENS POP-UP STORE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

ENJOY THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT MCCORMICKSTILLMAN RAILROAD PARK

Enjoy a wonderful winter wonderland at the iconic McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park through Dec. 30. The 30-acre park is the most unique park of its kind in the country and during the holidays is decked out in festive decor. Take a ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad through twinkling holiday light exhibits or ride the 1950-vintage Allan Herschell carousel. Holiday festivities take place from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. nightly, with a few exceptions. Tickets are $15 per person; free admission for children two years old and younger. The ticket fee reserves a 90-minute block, either 6 p.m. to7:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. For more information, visit therailroadpark.com.

ANNUAL SCOTTSDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT TOY DRIVE

Scottsdale Fire is accepting unwrapped toys and gift cards through Dec. 21 at SFD fire stations and headquarters.

“Our partner agencies must meet the need of families a little earlier this year, so we are opening our toy drive

before Thanksgiving,” says Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon. “These donations help make the holiday season a little brighter for many families. It is very much appreciated.”

Donations are distributed to partner organizations who serve families in need. Yearly, approximately 15,000 toys are collected through the toy drive, serving well over 1,000 families.

These agencies include:

• Vista Del Camino

• HonorHealth at Shea, Osborn, and Thompson Peak

• Family Promise

• Arizona Helping Hands

• Arizona Burn Foundation

• Harvest Compassion Center

Donors are asked to consider gifts for children ages 7 to 12 and 13 to18 years old, as these age groups are more challenging to find appropriate items. Gift cards are alternatives to selecting something specific. Drop off at any SFD station. Locate the station nearest you by visiting scottsdaleaz.gov/fire/fire-stations.

Pagoda Lane, a bespoke boutique specializing in inspired personalized gifts has opened a pop-up store in the Scottsdale Quarter through February 2023.

Owned by Paradise Valley residents Heather and Chip Hassan, customers can visit Pagoda Lane’s Scottsdale Quarter pop-up, or the flagship store located in Scottsdale Marketplace, to craft one-of-akind monogrammed gifts onsite. Monogramming can be done on everything from cashmere to tote bags, cosmetic cases, towels, and travel essentials. There are over 100 colorful threads and 60 monogram designs to select from.

While Pagoda Lane’s Scottsdale Quarter pop-up store is temporary, customers can visit Pagoda Lane inside Scottsdale Marketplace (6310 N. Scottsdale Rd.) or inside Avery Lane (15613 N. Greenway Hayden Loop). For more information, visit pagodalane.com.

Photo Courtesy of Pagoda Lane

Courtesy of LDV Winery

WINERY AND ANTICUS FINE ART GALLERY PRESENT

MONTHLY FINE WINE AND GALLERY ART PAIRING EXPERIENCE ON WED., DEC. 14 FROM 6 P.M. TO 8 P.M. A treat for all the senses, the event provides guests with the opportunity to enjoy, and learn more about, wine and art through a guided “pairing” experience.

This curated art and wine experience pairs four award-winning LDV wines with four fine art pieces featured at the gallery. A winemaker or representative from LDV Winery leads guests through their tasting as the Anticus Gallery owner or artist in residence gives a brief background about four fine art pieces. Guests will enjoy a unique interpretation of how the wines and the art are similar and why they pair well together.

During the event, attendees will also enjoy light bites with each pairing as they travel through the gallery. This event is designed to ignite conversation through the exploration of art and wine. Held on the second Wednesday of each month, these special events showcase the inspiration behind both art and the art of winemaking.

The cost is $65 per person, per event. The event is held at Anticus Fine Art, Books, Jewelry and Design, 3922 N. Scottsdale Rd. Guests can register by calling 480-664-4822. For more information, visit ldvwinery.com.

Holiday Hooves

Photos

City News Holiday Tidings at Scottsdale Fashion Square

A SEASON FILLED WITH GOOD TIDINGS AND CHEER IS KICKING OFF WITH NONE OTHER THAN SANTA CLAUS HIMSELF, WHEN THE JOLLY OLD ELF MAKES MADE HIS ANNUAL DEBUT AT SCOTTSDALE FASHION SQUARE’S PALM COURT. From a series of special Santa experiences and family-friendly events to reward opportunities and seasonal music serenades, there’s plenty to help put shoppers in a festive holiday spirit now through Christmas Eve.

Santa’s winter wonderland will once again bring the magic of the season to life, and those who pre-book a visit will receive a free personalized call from Santa powered by the Portable North Pole. Pre-booking saves time in line and helps families make the most of

their visit with Santa. Plan your visit and book your photo opp by visiting fashionsquare.com/santaphotos.

Knowing the excitement can be overwhelming for some boys and girls, Santa is also inviting children with sensory needs to create their own magical moments during a Sensory Santa event from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Sun., Dec. 4. During these specially scheduled visits, care will be taken to create a compassionate and supportive environment for children who benefit from a gentle touch.

Four-legged family members can get in on the festivities, too, with Scottsdale Fashion Square’s Santa Paws Pet Photo experience for pets from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 5. Pet parents can deck out their

furbabies in their holiday best and bring them out to share their holiday wish list with Santa before they “paws” to strike a pose. Registration is available online and highly recommended.

Families can wind down each week with Festive Fridays, interactive holiday crafting and photo experiences featuring some of the season’s most beloved special guests. The weekly events are free with a receipt showing proof of a Santa Claus photo package or $20 donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The special guest lineup includes: • Dec. 9 – Snowman Soiree with Kristoff and Olaf • Dec. 16 – Go Green with the Grinch

This holiday season, Macerich is chal-

lenging shoppers at its retail centers nationwide, including Scottsdale Fashion Square, to match its $50,000 pledge for a combined $100,000 contribution to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. See more details by visiting, fashionsquare.com/holiday.

Within the local community, shoppers can extend the spirit of giving by answering angel wishes. Scottsdale Fashion Square is once again teaming up with the Salvation Army to host the Angel Tree program, which runs through Dec. 22. Shoppers can pick up wish list tags and drop off new, unwrapped gifts Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the East wing near Sephora.

Additionally, shoppers will be treated to live musical performances by Sam Nelson & Stone in the Crystal Court from noon to 3 p.m. on Dec. 10, 17, and 19. Piano enthusiasts will also enjoy Music at the Mall when Phoenix Music Teachers’ Association hosts their annual concert from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 10, in the Nordstrom wing.

A full list of holiday events at Scottsdale Fashion Square is available at fashionsquare.com/holiday.

Black Tie Masquerade

Cooper’s Hawk Wine Club members partake in unique events.

CELEBRATE THE END OF 2022 AND WELCOME 2023 IN STYLE AT THE BLACK-TIE MASQUERADE. HELD AT COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT ON TUES., DEC.

27 FROM 7 P.M. TO 10 P.M., THE EVENING INCLUDES A MULTICOURSE, WINE-PAIRED DINNER, AND MERRIMENT.

Transform yourself for an evening of glamour, donning feathered eye masks and formal attire. For added interest, you’ll be seated with other guests during the dinner to spark conversation.

THE MENU FOR THE BLACK-TIE MASQUERADE

INCLUDES:

• Bubbly Rose Gold

•Truffle Fondue Cappellacci

-Sage-Truffle Brown Butter, Balsamic Glaze, Parmesan

-Wine Pairing | Cooper’s Hawk Lux Chardonnay

•Filet Medallions & Lobster Tail Gratin

-Parsnip Creamed Spinach, Sweet Onion Jus

-Wine Pairing | Cooper’s Hawk Lux Meritage

•White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

-Macadamia Nut Crust, Roasted White Chocolate, Chambord Glaze

-Wine Pairing | Cooper’s Hawk Lux Ice Wine

The event is open to Cooper’s Hawk Wine Club members who love to explore, share, and pair new wines with food and memorable moments. Wine membership starts at $19.99 a month for a bottle of sweet wine and can be tailored to white, red, and multi-bottles.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant is located at 7361 E. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. The cost for the Black-Tie Masquerade is $100 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity. To register, visit chwinery.com/wine-club/ special-events/black-tie-masquerade.

BODYTRAFFIC to present dance performance full of invention, attitude, and urban edge

Photo Courtesy of Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

BODYTRAFFIC MAKES ITS RETURN TO SCOTTSDALE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS ON DEC. 9.

This unique dance company will display how they captivate their creative expression to not only embody the essence of Los Angeles, but to inspire their audience as well.

“We are thrilled to have BODYTRAFFIC back with a program of mixed repertoire, including a brand-new work, ‘The One to Stay With’ choreographed by the on-the-rise duo Baye & Asa,” says Diandra Adamczyk, senior programming coordinator at the center.

This dance company was founded 15 years ago and has since attracted great attention and publicity.

BODYTRAFFIC was selected by the Obama Administration to be a part of DanceMotionUSA, which strives to engage international audiences through captivating performances. Members of the company served as cultural ambassadors in Israel, Jordan, South Korea, Algeria, and Indonesia, and now they are coming back to Scottsdale.

The company is ambitious to perform. Tina Berkett, artistic director and founder of BODYTRAFFIC, says the company has the “tremendous privilege” of feeling at home with Scottsdale audiences.

“We feel the city’s big love for dance every time we’re there: it’s like an underlying vibration,” Berkett says. “As Angelenos, we have a common love for good weather and enjoying life. We feel so welcomed and so celebrated in there; after all, we are a fiercely Western company and Scottsdale is ‘The West’s Most Western Town!’”

Berkett initially created the company due to inspiration from her college professor and mentor. BODYTRAFFIC includes exceptionally talented dancers and choreographers who have trained at some of the most prestige schools in the world, creating a company full of passion and creativity.

Prior to the regular performance, BODYTRAFFIC will also offer a student matinee on Dec. 9 at 11 a.m. at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. 2nd St. This interactive matinee combines hip-hop and ballet to get students moving and is best for grades third and above. Student matinee tickets are $5 each.

BODYTRAFFIC will then offer a regular performance on Dec. 9 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 to $60.

Visit scottsdaleperformingarts.org/events or call the box office at 480-499-TKTS (8587) for more information.

M Culinary Concepts Launches Hiring Initiative Ahead of Valley’s Biggest Events State’s Largest Catering Concept to Hire Hundreds of Hospitality Professionals for Winter/Spring Events Season, Including Super Bowl

LVII, WM Phoenix Open.

ARIZONA-BASED M CULINARY CONCEPTS, THE STATE’S LARGEST EVENT CATERING COMPANY, WILL HIRE HUNDREDS OF HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONALS AHEAD OF THE VALLEY’S BUSTLING EVENTS SEASON, INCLUDING SUPER BOWL LVII-RELATED EVENTS AND THE WM PHOENIX OPEN.

M Culinary Concepts will hire for front-of-house, backof-house, warehouse/facilities, transportation, and cafe support. Permanent full- and part-time opportunities are available, as well as seasonal positions.

“This is a great way to be at the center of what makes the Valley so special at this time of year,” says Director of Culinary Operations at M Culinary Concepts, Chef Jon Clancy. “You’ll gain valuable experience in your chosen hospitality profession and catapult your career to the next level. Advancement opportunities abound for the right candidate.”

Named one of BestCompaniesAZ’s Top Companies to Work for in Arizona, a distinction earned by M Culinary in 2021 and 2022, M Culinary Concepts offers competitive pay, flexible schedules, and a fast-paced, exciting environment perfect for learning the ins and outs of the hospitality industry. Full-time positions include 100% company-paid medical, dental, life and disability insurance, along with elective vision insurance and 401(k) match. No experience required.

M Culinary Concepts emerged in the Valley 25 years

ago. In that time, the business has become the goto caterer for some of the Valley’s marquee events including the WM Phoenix Open, Barrett-Jackson, Innings Fest, and charity galas, as well as a top choice for weddings and corporate events throughout the state.

Visit mculinary.com/careers for a complete list of open opportunities. Candidates can quickly schedule a 15-minute interview on the careers page or text “REBEL” to 89743 to apply.

Photo Courtesy of M Culinary Concepts

Karsten’s Hardware Celebrates its Re-Grand Opening

Photos Courtesy of Karsten’s Hardware

KARSTEN’S HARDWARE RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS GRAND RE-OPENING AT 10620 N 32ND ST. AND THEY’D LIKE TO INTRODUCE THEIR NEW STORE TO THEIR FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOOD. The new location is much larger and has given them the opportunity to carry even more products to serve the community’s needs.

Karsten’s Ace Hardware especially takes pride in their growing outdoor living department and developing garden center. From grills to smokers, and couches to umbrellas, they carry some fantastic products that will improve any home.

They’ve also taken a unique spin on nostalgic local hardware stores by carrying old-fashioned candy, soda, and toys, as well as mid-century, western, and classic home décor. The compelling front end of their store has grown tremendously, and their cashiers take great pride in caring for it. Looking through this section is like taking a walk through your childhood!

Despite all the new items, they are still growing! Karsten’s is expecting a unique shipment of Kaemingk seasonal decorations. More details are coming soon.

“With all the excitement of the new product and new building, we would like to thank everyone who has been so patient with our changes. Remodeling in retail can be a huge process. Without

this forgiving community and amazing employees that we have been graced with, it would have been a much more difficult journey!” says owner Dave Karsten

In addition to its expanded and improved store, Karsten’s is also working with the community to beautify the neighborhood. “We are excited to provide local artists with the paint and supplies they need to create the masterpieces we enjoy around town,” says Karsten.

A local artist utilized paint and supplies donated by Karsten’s Ace Hardware to create a breathtaking mural depicting the beauty of the Arizona desert. “The artist is unknown to us, but we do know that they used our product to produce this piece, and we are so excited about it,” continues Karsten.

For more information about Karsten’s Ace events, locations, and sales, follow them on Facebook @paradisehillshardware.

Karsten’s Hardware takes a unique spin on nostalgic hardware stores by carrying oldfashioned candy, soda, and toys.

A local artist utilized paint and supplies donated by Karsten’s Ace Hardware to create a breathtaking mural depicting the beauty of the Arizona desert.

Your child isn’t one-dimensional. That’s why they need a school that engages every aspect of their ever-growing self. Phoenix Friends School offers a whole-student education grounded in Quaker values and a path to academic excellence that includes spiritual depth. This unique combination provides students with the tools they need for life.

89-year-old Artist Inspires her Hospice Team

By Lin Sue Flood

Avinell MacDonald isn’t kidding when she says, “it’s never too late to try something new.” She was 60 years old when her husband asked if there was anything in life she wanted to do but hadn’t tried. MacDonald chose two things: play the piano and take up painting. Before she knew it, he’d bought her a piano and paint supplies.

She learned to play a few tunes before giving the piano to her granddaughter but has never put down the paintbrush in nearly three decades. “I didn’t think I had any talent,” the Hospice of the Valley patient confesses, “but my husband had faith in me, so I kept going. I bought some books and taught myself to mix colors and suddenly, I just took off.”

Her determination ignited something in hospice chaplain Ken Collins, who is quite possibly her biggest groupie. At 63, he decided to give painting a try.

“Avinell is one incredible artist and one incredible person!” Collins says. “The beauty of her paintings is only matched by the beauty of her inspiring life. She’s my biggest encourager and has unleashed in me a long-held passion.” The two enjoy sharing their latest projects and discussing color and technique. “I never dreamed what I was doing would get him so excited,” MacDonald laughs. “He’s got talent and if he pursues it, he’s gonna be a lot better than I am someday!”

The 89-year-old loves sharing the framed collection that fills her bedroom studio. Her hospice care team, which includes Collins, nurse Cheryl Adams, and social worker Susan Dabreo, enjoy watching the creative process unfold, as MacDonald transforms a blank canvas into a beautiful landscape, floral arrangement, or family portrait.

Right now, she’s painting a mountain scene from one of her favorite photographs. “I used the same colors of the photo, but it doesn’t suit me, so I’m going to change them,” she quips. “Don’t know what I’ll end up with, but when I finish, I hope I like it.”

“We always say that hospice care includes making the most of life, enhancing it with what you love,” Collins says. “With Avinell, that means nurturing her artistic side too.”

Her fan club can’t wait to see what she paints next.

“They all encourage me, especially when I mess up. They’re just so kind and generous and don’t make me feel old,” she jokes. “I’ll be 90 in a few months and look at me. I’m still at it!”

To learn about Hospice of the Valley programs and services, call 602-530-6900, or visit hov.org.

A peek at Avinell’s studio, filled with works she’s painted over the last 29 years

Avinell says her hospice care team are her biggest fans.

Avinell MacDonald and her protégé, chaplain Ken Collins.

Hit the Trail During Eight4Two Challenge

Photo Courtesy of Arizona State Parks and Trails

The Eight4Two Challenge from Arizona State Parks and Trails is back for its third year, giving

everyone an opportunity to win prizes for exploring more of Arizona’s amazing and diverse state trails and parks!

Hike, walk, or bike eight different trails

in at least four different state parks by Mon., Jan. 16, 2023, to win two free dayuse passes (good for up to four people) and a custom, limited-edition sticker. A full list of state parks can be found at azstateparks.com.

On Jan. 1, 2023, Arizona State Parks will offer First Day Hikes as part of a national program to start the year off with exercise and fresh air, and all Arizona residents will get free entrance to a state park on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Jan. 16).

Everyone participating in the Eight4Two Challenge can include these great events on their calendars or check out ongoing guided hikes at the parks at azstateparks.com/events.

Register online, then log entries and submit photos of your adventures! Photos may be used on social media and in Arizona State Parks advertising, and everyone who completes the goal will win the prizes. Tag #AZStateParks in photos on social media, using #842AZ.

To find more information, register, and log your entries, visit azstateparks. com/842-challenge.

Have you given up on cleaning your house, and would like to see it emerge from under the dirt again? We’re there for you. Looking for a daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or yearly service that you can trust? Our staff is prompt, courteous, and friendly. We understand what it takes to keep your home thoroughly clean.

Horizon Huskies Win

State Volleyball Championships

Paradise Valley Unified School District’s Horizon High School’s Volleyball Team has won another 5A Conference Championship.

The Horizon Huskies beat the Millennium High School Tigers at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in November in straight sets (25-15, 25-14, 25-15) during the 5A volleyball state championship, making the Huskies back-to-back winning champions.

Both teams had a regular season record of 16-1. The Huskies lost to Cactus Shadows in October, while the Tigers previously lost to their state championship adversary, Horizon.

This is the fourth state championship for the Huskies long-time head coach and coach of the year, Valorie McKenzie. She is in her 42nd season at Horizon and has garnered over 1,000 career wins.

Photo Courtesy of Paradise Valley Unified School District

Arizona Teachers Receive $1 Million Through Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers Draft Day Wishes for Teachers’

seven-year total at $5.7 million following 2022 Draft Day.

Photos Courtesy of Fiesta Bowl Charities

Continuing the Fiesta Bowl Organization’s annual tradition of honoring, supporting and celebrating educators throughout Arizona, Fiesta Bowl Charities granted 400 teachers with $2,500 each through the Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers Draft Day presented by Salt River Project (SRP).

The wishes were spread throughout the state this year with 72 cities and towns represented amongst the 400 teachers selected. Nearly 212,000 students across 321 schools and 95 districts will be positively impacted by their teachers’ wishes with this year’s group combining for more than 5,300 years of experience in the classroom.

Recipients included those teaching the arts to science, both gifted and special education, and languages and life skills amongst a diverse group of subjects. The 400 wishes granted will benefit teachers who will aim to enrich the lives of their students through technology improvements, addition of educational programs, fitness equipment, and more.

LOCAL RECIPIENTS INCLUDED:

• Lydia MacKay, a speech therapist at Sequoya Elementary in Scottsdale, will purchase iPads for their students.

• Mary MacKay, an English language arts teacher at Sunrise Middle School in Scottsdale, will purchase tables for their classroom.

• Christine Nobley, an English language arts teacher at Desert Shadows Middle School, will provide new books for their classroom.

“Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers is one of the most impactful

teacher support programs in Arizona donating $1 million dollars to benefit thousands of Arizona students. Adding to the excitement this year is the return of our in-person Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers Draft Day presented by SRP which further enhances the experience for our recipients,” says Fiesta Bowl Board Chair Randal Norton. “Teachers are truly selfless individuals who help shape the futures of our students here in Arizona and we are proud to play a part in supporting our teachers to do more in the classroom for the leaders of tomorrow.”

This year’s $1 million total donation brings the Wishes for Teachers’ sevenyear cumulative grant total to $5.7 million awarded to 1,600 teachers, impacting more than 700,000 students across Arizona.

Created in 2016, the Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers program grants classroom wishes to Arizona teachers. Public and charter school K-12 teachers across the state are invited to apply each fall with the recipients verified and selected by a random drawing during the Palo Verde Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers Draft Day presented by (SRP).

Education Voters Pass Prop 308 Allowing DACA Students to Receive In-State College Tuition

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) joins education leaders across the state in applauding Arizona voters for their support and passage of Proposition 308, providing in-state tuition to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) students.

“Throughout the years, MCCCD has fought to provide Arizona’s most affordable tuition for high-quality associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and workforce training to all in-state students regardless of their immigration status,” says MCCCD Chancellor, Dr. Steven R. Gonzales. “The passage of Proposition 308 will allow thousands of Arizona DACA students to pursue their dream of obtaining a higher education, and we look forward to serving them.”

Proposition 308 ensures that any Arizonan, regardless of their immigration sta-

tus, who has graduated from an Arizona high school and has lived in the state for two consecutive years, is granted in-state tuition at its colleges and universities.

Each year, thousands of undocumented students graduate from Arizona high schools. Unable to access in-state tuition rates, many forgo their education aspirations due to the financial barrier. The passage of Proposition 308 will strengthen MCCCD’s growing dual enrollment pipeline, which has been vital in the recovery of the system after the initial impact brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I believe that Proposition 308 is not only an investment and commitment to our DACA students but to the future of Arizona’s workforce development. Arizona has a serious current labor shortage, Proposition 308 will aid in jumpstarting our labor market

by providing much-needed skilled employees to the current job market,” says Gonzales.

Proposition 308 makes higher education more affordable and attainable for DACA students entering college for the first time or returning to college to learn new skills and re-enter the workforce. Developed with local industry partners and economic development leaders, Maricopa Community Colleges offers sixty individual Fast Track Certificates that prepare students for a new career in as little as a few weeks or six months. The highly-specific training certificates meet the needs of current and future Arizona businesses, whether it’s precision manufacturing, healthcare, or advancing IT professional skills.

Arizona now joins the growing list of states that grant in-state tuition to undocumented students.

Epic Family Fun pass

Kids’ Corner BATH BOMBS

Make a unique present for friends and family this holiday season.

By Sari Custer, Chief Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center

What’s more fun than bathtub bubbles? Bath bombs have been around since 1989 and have recently found a resurgence in popularity. With this activity, you can customize all your scents and colors for custom science gift-giving!

SUPPLIES

• Silicone molds (soap/candy molds, muffin tins, or plastic eggs also work well)

• Whisk

• Mixing spoons

• Wax paper

• Large bowl

• Small bowl

• Measuring spoons

• Measuring cups

• Gloves

• Eye protection

• ¾ cup baking soda

• ½ cup cornstarch

• ½ cup powdered citric acid (buy online, at a local craft store, or local grocer with canning supplies)

• ½ cup Epsom salt

• ½ tablespoon water

• 2½ tablespoon oil (coconut, olive, or other vegetable oil)

• Optional: portable fan

• Optional: 4 to 6 drops of food coloring (powdered food coloring works well)

• Optional: 2 teaspoons skinfriendly scented essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, rose, lemongrass, coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, peppermint … whatever you like! Available online or at your local craft store).

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Put on your safety gear, including gloves and eye protection. Powders can be irritating.

2. In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients (baking soda, Epsom salt, citric acid, and cornstarch) and mix until combined and clump-free.

3. In a small bowl, combine the wet ingredients (oil, water, scented oil, and food coloring). If you use scented oil, stick to about two

teaspoons. Roughly five drops of food coloring work well, but feel free to mix up different pigments and experiment with the color.

4. Very slowly add the liquid to the dry mixture — about one teaspoon at a time. Use the whisk to mix as you go. Slow down if you start to see the mixture fizz. The final mixture shouldn’t clump together and should have the texture of damp sand.

5. Spread the mixture into the silicone molds (or plastic eggs) and press firmly until it is fully and evenly packed in each section. Depending on size, this can make about 10 bath bombs.

6. Place the packed molds in front of the blowing fan or just set them out to dry. This can take up to a day.

7. When your molds are set, flip them over and very gently press the fizzies out onto a piece of wax paper. If they start to crumble as you do this, flip them back over and let them continue

to set in the molds for a while longer.

8. Test them! Once the bath bombs are set, try one out by tossing it into a tub of water. What do you observe?

9. To gift them, gently wrap your bath bombs in decorative bags. If the fizzy does crumble, have no fear! The mixture can be poured into a bath and produce the same great effects.

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

The key ingredients here are citric acid (a weak acid) and baking soda (or sodium bicarbonate, a weak base). When the two ingredients are dry in their powdered form, they don’t react. But when you put the bath bomb into the tub, water causes the two key ingredients to mix, resulting in an acid-base reaction. Is there any change if you put the bath bomb in cold water versus hot water? How does the size of your bath bomb affect its fizziness? How does the color of the bath bomb affect the water?

THE IMPORTANCE OF Estate Planning with a Professional The Law Office of Libby Banks helps locals plan for the future.

Attorney Libby Banks founded the Law Office of Libby Banks because her passion is helping clients of all ages plan for what happens to them if they are incapacitated or pass away. It’s an important, yet difficult, topic that can impact both her clients and their loved ones for years to come.

“About 10 years ago, I began working with an attorney who specialized in the big fights over the money and estate of those who passed away without a will or with an invalid or poorly written estate plan. I value family above everything else, and my heart broke during these horrible court battles,” she says. “I saw families falling apart – families who would never be the same again after the fight was over. I finally decided to begin doing the estate planning – the preventative medicine so to speak – to prevent the problems that can destroy a family.”

Banks says that estate planning is something that you can do at any age once you’re over 18, and in any financial situation. “You need to think of what your current financial and life situation is,” she says. “For example, if you have children, you not only need to plan for your financial situation, but for who will take care of your children, as well as who will be their guardians. If you have a family history of dementia or Alzheimer’s, your estate plan makes sure someone you trust will take care of your finances – and you –when you can no longer do it yourself.”

“Estate planning is all about selecting someone to make sure your estate is managed properly and for planning how you will distribute your assets as well. The goal is to create a plan that fits your situation, and keep it updated so it grows with you. The plan you make when you are single changes when you marry, when you have children, when your children are grown and as you age.”

“What are some downsides to not planning? There are many including unforeseen consequences,” she says. “A family where each parent has separate children, for instance, needs to put a written plan in place if they intend for their children from previous marriages to inherit. If they don’t, the likely result is that the children of the last spouse to die will inherit everything. A sound estate plan helps you to take care of your loved ones and makes sure that your wishes are respected.”

“Something to keep in mind, too, is that an estate plan names the right person to make decisions for you if you’re incapacitated. It’s not just about planning for when you pass away,” she adds.

One misconception about estate planning is it’s easy to go online and create what you need or go to a paralegal or document preparer to do the work. However, like all important and vital tasks, it’s best to leave something this crucial to a professional, according to Banks.

“If you don’t do the job right and you may not know you’ve made a mistake, and it may well be too late before you – or more likely, your family – finds out,” she explains.

“Without proper estate planning, your family may end up in court, or the distribution of your estate may not happen the way you intended. If you are alive and incapacitated and your plan doesn’t cover you properly, your family may be required to take you to court to declare you unable to handle your affairs and appoint a guardian and conservator. That is a public proceeding, involving at least two attorneys. If you are deceased, they may have to file a probate to transfer your property to your heirs. If you left your assets to minor children, the court will be involved in the expenditures until the children turn 18 – at which point the children will receive all the money left to them. Any of these things can cause major headaches and great expense for your loved ones.”

As an estate planning attorney, Banks knows what to recommend based on your situation, your beneficiaries, your assets, and your goals and dreams. You may not know all the ways you can benefit your heirs with a well drafted plan, or all the ways you can cause problems for them with a poorly drafted plan.

While some may worry about the cost of the planning process, Banks assures that it’s well worth the price.

“The cost for a guardian or conservatorship if you are incapacitated (or for your minor children) and the cost of a probate on your death usually far exceeds the price of an estate plan put in place while you are alive and well,” she explains. “More important even than the expense is saving your family the time and heartache of going through these court proceedings and potential disputes. Knowing your loved ones will thank you for making it easier on them – that’s priceless!”

With the right estate plan, you can:

• Rest assured that if an emergency happens your family or friends can step in to take care of your health and of your finances.

• Avoid probate and provide for the right person to distribute your estate according to your directions without court intervention.

• Minimize taxes, including capital gains taxes.

• Provide a guardian for your minor children.

• Designate that a trustee governs the money spent on your minor children (that person can be separate from the guardian).

• Protect your inheritance from your beneficiaries’ creditors and from their divorcing spouses.

The estate planning process is a lot easier than some may think. With the team at the Law Office of Libby Banks, you can get started through a free-of-charge consultation in person, over Zoom, or even by phone.

Estate planning prices vary based on the situation. During the free consultation, a fee is quoted for the

cost of the plan. Consultations are available with Banks or with her associate attorney, Travis Meyers.

While many of her clients come from the immediate area, Banks says that she can serve people from across the Valley.

In addition to her busy practice, Banks is actively involved in the local community. She is a supporter of the local nonprofit Don’t be a Chump! Check for a Lump!, whose mission is to “provide free breast health education, mammograms, testing, and direct assistance to breast cancer patients with wigs, support, and resources in Arizona,” according to the organization. She also serves on the board of Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels, a local nonprofit that works to bring dignity and comfort into the harsh world of childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

“Being active in helping nonprofits keeps me connected to the local community,” Banks says.

In addition to her business and volunteering, Libby works with her husband of 35 years, Andy, at her law office. He serves as the business’ administrator and marketing director. “Clients and locals will often see him behind the scenes at my community seminars,” Banks shares.

The long-time couple have been in the Valley for 20 years and have three grown children. Two of their children, John and Emma, work at the law office as the firm’s paralegals.

“Between volunteering for local nonprofits, networking with other local businesses, and serving clients, it’s all about helping fellow Arizonans to me,” Banks says.

To learn more, including how to receive a free consultation and estimate, call 602-375-6752, or visit libbybanks.com.

This content is sponsored by the Law Office of Libby Banks.

We Wish You a Merry Contract & A Happy New Home

By Joseph Callaway

Welcome to the most missed and misunderstood opportunity in all real estate. It’s Christmas! And it’s New Years. And who wants to keep the house ready for showings or go looking for that next dream home when there are yards to decorate and gifts to wrap?

Smart sellers and savvy buyers, that’s who!

From the seller’s viewpoint, you can go on the market in the spring, along with every other seller from the “desperate” to the “let’s see what happens crowd.” Or you can be listed when no one else is out there. Yes, there may be fewer buyers, but they are dead set on finding a home. For whatever the reason, these buyers are serious. All the lookie-loos are busy making pudding and drinking eggnog. The chances of getting sold almost double in December, January, and February.

Which brings us to buyers during the same three months. It’s called the money season or for the pricey group, “The Luxury Season.” Just think about it, this is when all the winter visitors arrive for the holidays with family, the golf tournament, the bowl games (including the Super Bowl this year), the auto auctions, the art shows, and the Airbnb group.

They bring their money and buy second homes. For the luxury crowd, it may be their fifth home because there is nowhere in the world you want to live longer than three or four months at a time and they do all their business with sellers smart enough to be in the market when no one else is.

There is still time. You can have a yard sign and a lockbox in as little as a day or two after you make the decision to sell. The question is, will it be you? If it is, “We wish you a merry contract and a happy new home.” Sing it Barbra!

Joseph Callaway is the owner of Those Callaways and Callaway Realty. His cell is 602-796-5751.

Neighbors

Hello Neighbor!

WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… a restauranteur.

THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KAROKE NIGHT IS… I never have.

THE PEOPLE WHO MOTIVATE ME ARE… my other tennis teammates.

THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… kids. They often say hilarious things they don’t realize they did.

HI, MY NAME IS… Shelley Chambers

I’VE LIVED IN PHOENIX SINCE 1980 AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE… there are so many warm days here available to play tennis! I’m originally from Minnesota but when we moved here our family lived near Shadow Mountain on Beryl so I could walk to school. Shea Middle School was not built until after I graduated with my twin sister Sherri. Our coach Steve Miller, who was also the math teacher at Shadow Mountain, surprised us one day and had them write on the school sign “Congratulations Sherri and Shelley Gronlund placed fourth in state tennis!”

A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… I play a league match in the morning (either ATA or WITL) or play fun tennis two to four times a week. Then, I’m preparing for teaching tennis at night. I love to cook, so my mind is always planning and preparing a meal.

MY FAMILY IS… grown.

ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS… my pets greeting me when I arrive home.

MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY IS… old “Saturday Night Live” skits, I could watch them for hours, or old Carol Burnett reruns.

THE PERFECT DAY IS… Christmas Eve after family has enjoyed a feast of food I made, and everyone had fun opening presents.

MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… Alzheimer’s research and PALS.

MY LIFE IS… constantly changing.

MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… a cabin in Minnesota and fishing.

THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED IS… “Don’t worry so much about keeping your house spotless,” my grandmother told me this.

One-Day Home Projects to Complete Before the New Year

By StatePoint

As the new year approaches, many people will begin considering their resolutions. Some will choose to focus on setting health and fitness goals, while others may identify DIY projects to improve and organize their homes. But why make DIY projects part of your New Year’s resolution when you could easily complete them before the year’s end? Check out five home projects that can be completed in one day before the new year arrives.

REFRESH THE WALL PAINT

If there’s one area in desperate need of a refresh, painting is a great place to start. With the right planning (and an early start), you can easily paint a room in a day. Purchase the materials you need, including primer, the paint color of your choice, brushes and rollers, and a high-quality painter’s tape like FrogTape Multi-Surface painter’s tape. Made with PaintBlock Technology, FrogTape ensures crisp and professional paint lines, so there will be no time wasted on touch-ups.

Once you have your supplies, tape the walls, apply primer and paint away. In just one day, a fresh coat of paint will have the room feeling brand new.

ENHANCE THE ENTRYWAY

Your entryway should give your guests a warm welcome. A few simple solutions for sprucing up this area are organizing shoes, hanging up coats, and adding a pop of color by laying a rug at the door. If you have the space, time, and budget, you could consider larger improvements such as adding a bench, shoe storage, or a coat rack. Complete the look by adding decorative pillows to the bench or adding frames to the wall.

REPLACE BATHROOM ACCESSORIES

One way to make a space look more

contemporary is to update the hardware and fixtures. This works particularly well in bathrooms where showerheads, faucets, towel bars, and cabinet handles can be swapped out for matching, on-trend matte black or gold finishes. Other small, easily replaced items include shower curtains, towels, bathmats, soap dispensers, and toothbrush holders. These swaps may seem minor to make, but they can make a big difference in the look and feel of the room.

ORGANIZE CABINETS, DRAWERS, AND SHELVES

Once the hardware has been replaced on cabinets and drawers, open them up and get things in order. Start by going through what you have and deciding what can be eliminated. Clearing out clutter is particularly important for open shelves that are visible in the room. Once you’ve decided on what to keep, replace items in an organized manner so they’re easy to find going forward. Sorting out these small spaces can help keep things running smoothly into the new year.

REARRANGE A BEDROOM

Sometimes you just need to look at what you already have with a fresh perspective. Rearranging the furniture in a room can make it feel brand new. It can be as easy as switching which side of the bed the nightstand is on or moving the dresser to another spot on the wall. Best of all, this approach doesn’t require spending money on new items or supplies – all you need is your creativity and imagination!

For more DIY inspiration, visit frogtape. com.

With so many DIY projects that can be done in just one day, there’s no need to wait until 2023 to give your home the refresh it deserves.

Learn From an Expert How to Scorpion-Proof Your Home This Winter

By Tony Gonzalez

With temperatures cooling off sooner than normal at night this year, there’s been a rise of Arizona Bark Scorpions found in homes across the Valley. These unwanted guests gather in large groups of 20 to 30 to nest in sheltering areas until the warmer seasons return. They can be found in and under bark, lumber piles, bigger landscaping rocks, wall voids, structural cracks, crevices, under concrete foundations, expansion joints, attic spaces and even inside the walls of your home. Scorpions can survive the coldest of temperatures and live for over five years.

These upcoming months are the perfect time to consider scorpion-proofing your home to eliminate encounters once the weather begins to warm up and scorpions become more active again. Here’re some tips to begin scorpionproofing your home this winter:

1. REMOVE ITEMS LEANING UP AGAINST YOUR HOME, INCLUDING VEGETATION

It’s time to tidy up the yard! Get rid of any unnecessary items that are leaning up against your walls including vegetation, as these can help scorpions gain access into your home.

Think of anything in your yard that could provide scorpions with warmth. Clear out any nonessentials that could serve as a potential nesting spot.

2. CONSIDER REPLACING GARAGE AND FRONT DOOR WEATHER STRIPPING

Doors are one of the easiest access points for scorpions to enter your home and maintaining its weather stripping can significantly reduce your home’s chance of scorpion nesting. Typically made of rubber or vinyl, weather stripping seals the barrier around doors as frames contract and expand during the seasonal changes.

3. PROTECT YOUR HOME

To give your home the most protection, make sure scorpions cannot find a way inside your home. You can seal cracks and other openings on walls and foundations.

Another option is to ensure that scorpions cannot climb into your home. Slick Barrier offers a clear coating to be placed onto the bottom outside of your home that physically stops scorpions from climbing. If scorpions are physically stopped from climbing, they cannot enter your home. The product is available to homeowners to be painted on a home’s foundation or a few inches off the ground, or in any area that requires exclusion (like vents, small gaps, chimneys, etc.). The coating dries into a hard, smooth, and slick surface like glass, which prevents many crawling insects (including scorpions) from being able to climb. For more information, please visit slickbarrier.com.

No one wants to deal with unwanted critters around their home. Inspect your home and make adjustments as the weather cools down. You’ve invested time and energy into your space so protect your investment by taking preventative measures to avoid scorpion nesting this winter.

New Year’s Resolutions? To Keep Them, Know Your “Why”

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

If you’re like me, December is a time to think about New Year’s resolutions. This year I want to keep my resolutions, instead of abandoning them all before January is over. How to do that? I asked my fitness trainer, Janet McConnell, whose book “Elements of Aging Well: Wisdom from My Journey So Far” is now available on Amazon. She says the way to stay motivated is to dig deep and find the “why” behind your goal.

Your resolution: exercise regularly. Your plan: get up at 6 a.m. and get to the gym every weekday. But when the alarm goes off, the air is chilly and the bed is warm, hitting the snooze button sounds better. How to get yourself moving? Remember your “why.”

Why are you exercising? To keep up with your grandchildren, to live a longer life, or to make yourself feel more attractive.

Digging deeper into that “why” will make the difference between getting up to exercise and staying in bed. Why do you want to keep up with your grandchildren? Perhaps to avoid being left on the park bench or at home when the family heads for a fun activity. The “why” for staying healthy and living a long life? Perhaps it’s to be here to support your children, to be fit to travel, to enjoy the fruits of your labors. Looking good? The deeper why might be to find your true love, start a family, and have a happily ever after.

Keeping the “why” of your goal in mind is crucial to succeeding when the going gets tough.

Have you been putting off doing your will or trust? If so, knowing why it’s important can get you moving forward. Here are a few good reasons to do an estate plan.

1. It gives you peace of mind! You know you need to put some kind of plan in place. When you have done so, it will be a big load off your mind.

2. It protects you if you are incapacitated. If you can’t handle your finances or make healthcare decisions, your plan assures that the people you select can step in to care for you.

3. It shows your family you love them. When you die, it will be a huge loss for your family. You show them that you love them by making sure you don’t leave a mess behind. It’s agonizing for your heirs to deal with your estate when there is no proper plan.

4. It helps maintain family harmony. If you’ve set out your wishes in a proper plan, the chances of family arguments or drama are greatly diminished. Knowing what your wishes are helps to eliminate fights.

A first step to getting a plan in place might be to book a free initial consultation with me. Call 602-3756752 or visit my website at libbybanks. com.

Our Estate Planning in Phoenix and Scottsdale is highly customized to meet your unique family situation, assets, values, and personal goals. Our complimentary first meeting allows you to get to know our Estate Planning team and talk about your unique situation and what plan will best fit your needs.

Remember, when you choose us you are not only hiring someone to prepare your Estate Plan, you are choosing a seasoned Estate Planning attorney to guide you through this often complex process and raise questions you might not have considered. You are choosing an experienced team to create a plan that serves your family in the way that you want and, after you are gone, a trusted advisor that your loved ones can depend on.

Come see us in our new, convenient office located just down the street at 5010 E. Shea Blvd, Suite 205 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 602.375.6752 | www.libbybanks.com | libby@libbybanks.com

Health

Tired of Being Tired? How to Combat Fatigue with

Naturopathic Medicine

By Dr. Jenna Dye, Naturopathic Physician

Fatigue is a common discussion in my practice. Patients report fatigue upon waking in the morning or they feel an afternoon slump around 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Many also crave sugar or find themselves needing caffeinated beverages to get them through the day. There are many factors that may contribute to fatigue, but it does not have to be a daily struggle. As a naturopathic physician, my job is to investigate the root cause of a patient’s underlying fatigue.

ADEQUATE SLEEP

This may seem like a no brainer; however, many patients do not get quality sleep. Sleep is often sacrificed in high stress situations, but it is crucial in our underlying health. I recommend good sleep hygiene routines. Eliminating screens 30-60 minutes before bed can help those who have trouble falling asleep. Chamomile tea, yoga and a simple quick meditation prior to sleep can also be very supportive.

THYROID SUPPORT

The thyroid gland can affect our energy levels and it is an important screen when there is fatigue present. It plays a role in metabolism, temperature regulation, and digestion. Many factors can affect the thyroid, including stress and nutrient deficiencies. I always recommend a full thyroid panel, which can be tested via blood. Supportive therapies can vary but include herbal supplementation, nutritional support, and medication if indicated.

ADRENAL HEALTH

The adrenal glands are small glands that produce cortisol. Cortisol is released in response to stress; the more stress we have, the more cortisol is needed. After long periods of chronic stress, the response to stress gets weaker and cortisol levels can drop. This is called adrenal fatigue. It is important to know what your levels are in order to support the adrenal glands correctly. This can be obtained by a simple blood test. Treatment varies depending on the severity of adrenal fatigue. Diet, lifestyle, and stress reduction are great starting points along with nutrient and herbal support.

NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES

Nutrient deficiencies can be a common cause of fatigue. Deficiencies can be determined by a blood test, which is important to ensure proper supplementation, if needed. Diet changes can also be a great way to improve nutrient absorption. Vitamin D, Vitamin B12 and iron are just a few common nutrients that can affect our energy levels.

DIGESTION

Our digestive system is the key player for nutrient absorption and elimination of waste products. If there is digestive disruption it will affect our overall wellbeing and lead to fatigue. It is important to find out the root cause of any digestive issues. Food sensitivities, imbalanced gut flora, and chronic constipation are just few things to investigate with fatigue.

CONSULT A NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN

When you are tired it can be hard to focus or even know where to start to improve your health. Fatigue does not need to be your “normal” and you can be supported. A naturopathic physician will work with you to find the root cause of your fatigue and, with proper support, improve your energy level.

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.

DECEMBER HAPPENINGS

FANTASY OF LIGHTS BOAT PARADE

“‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE…” BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

50TH ANNUAL FLAGG GEM & MINERAL SHOW

“A WINNIE THE POOH CHRISTMAS TAIL”

When: Through Dec. 23

Where: Valley Youth Theatre, 526 N. First St., Phoenix

What: A friend tells Christopher Robin a story of a Christmas Eve very long ago when Eeyore, the old gray donkey who lives by himself in the thistle corner of Hundred-Acre Wood, was miserable. It seems that he lost his tail and Winnie-the-Pooh and Piglet got all their friends and a search was organized. There is a great deal of fun and excitement, plus delightful songs, in the adventure that follows.

Info: vyt.com

CHILDSPLAY “RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER”

When: Through Dec. 24

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

What: This musical adaptation of the classic special features a host of favorite characters including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Sam the Snowman, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and Rudolph. Info: childsplayaz.org/rudolph

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL”

When: Through Dec. 24

Where: Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Dr., Peoria

What: Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future in this tale of greed, growth, and love,

and see Ebenezer Scrooge face a life-changing choice that could be his greatest savior or his gruesome demise. Delight in extraordinary visuals, gorgeous costumes, and eye-popping effects bringing to life the story of generosity’s triumph over greed in the best Christmas tale ever told.

Info: theaterworks.org

ZOOLIGHTS

When: Through Jan. 15

Where: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix What: You’ll find adventure everywhere at the Valley’s favorite holiday tradition, ZooLights! This season promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before, with all new animal lanterns and light displays, an enhanced Santa experience and a brandnew music and light show that will take you around the world!

Info: phoenixzoo.org/events/zoolights

QUALITY ARTS & CRAFTS MARKET

When: Dec. 3 & Dec. 17

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

CHILDSPLAY “RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER” PHOENIX FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

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

HOLLY DAZED: A FESTIVELY CONFUSED CABARET

When: Dec. 9 - 18

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

What: Lee has planned every detail of his classical piano holiday recital, and he is determined to put on a polished (if somewhat boring) show for his friends and family. What he didn’t plan on is a very lost Holly crashing his stage, but it turns out, everyone could use a little Holly Dazed spirit in their lives!

Info: herbergertheater.org

BALLET ARIZONA PRESENTS

“THE NUTCRACKER”

When: Dec. 9 – Dec. 24

Where: 2835 E. Washington St., Phoenix

What: Celebrate the joy and wonder of the season with Ib Andersen’s “The Nutcracker,: as Tchaikovsky’s cherished score is masterfully performed by The Phoenix Symphony. Follow Clara’s wintry adventures as she battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy. Whether this is your first Nutcracker or your 101st, this heartwarming tradition never fails to enchant and draw smiles from all!

Info: balletaz.org

FANTASY OF LIGHTS BOAT PARADE

When: Dec. 10

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

What: As the sun sets, the evening lights up at one of the Sonoran Desert’s most unique holiday events. Gather along the shore of Tempe Beach Park for Tempe’s Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by fireworks. Info: downtowntempe.com/events/ boat-parade

PHOENIX FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

When: Dec. 10 & 11

Where: Phoenix Center for the Arts, 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix

What: This community event is a Phoenix favorite for the holidays with a weekend of free arts and culture activities, vendors, demonstrations, performances, and more. Featuring over 150 art vendors, local music, and food trucks, it’s the perfect occasion to bring friends and family out to connect with the local arts community.

Info: phoenixfestivalofthearts.org

FUELFEST

When: Dec. 10

Where: Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park, 20000 S. Maricopa Rd., Chandler

What: Where passion meets art through cars and music, FuelFest blends the enthusiast’s passion for the automotive world with live musical performances, racing, and art, giving fans the music festival and car show experience all at once. The car show features top modified, exotic, performance built, and rare cars from all over the world. Fans and drivers can enjoy live drifting with ride alongs, 1/4 mi drag racing, demos by pro drivers, karting, gaming centers, and more!

Info: fuelfest.com

“‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE… ”BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

When: Dec. 16 - 24

Where: 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix

What: An exhilarating spin on the beloved Christmas tale, this festive show brings a flurry of love, Christmas cheer, thrilling acrobatics, and hugely lovable characters to the stage for a new holiday tradition for families to cherish.

Info: ticketmaster.com

SESAME STREET LIVE

When: Dec. 29 & 30

Where: Desert Diamond Arena, 9431 W. Northern Ave., Glendale

What: Join your favorite furry friends in your neighborhood at one of our three fun-filled Sesame Street Live! interactive show experiences that unfold on one of the world’s most famous streets.

Info: sesamestreetlive.com

50TH ANNUAL FLAGG GEM & MINERAL SHOW

When: Jan. 6, 7, & 8

Where: Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Southwest parking lot

What: A free, outdoor, family-friendly event featuring gold panning, a fossil dig, free mineral samples for children and teachers at MCC Geology Club’s booth, and other children’s activities as well as 100 dealers who will showcase and sell a variety of minerals, fossils, gems, beads, jewelry, and lapidary materials.

Info: flaggmineralfoundation.org.

CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 38 SUDOKU ANSWER from page 39

Entertainment Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates

By Tony Beal

ON

NETFLIX

more engaging experience and grabs your attention. It’s overall a more ambitious, yet still entertaining film.

to an abrupt ending to the film. But overall, this film is an important and informative look at a side of cinema’s history not commonly seen.

“Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery”

Benoit Blanc returns with a new group of suspects after a murder occurs on a private island.

Despite still being a solid thriller, “Glass Onion” doesn’t come close to the quality of the first film. Much of that has to do with the first half of the film, which is mostly used to establish the connection our suspects have, while Blanc is more of an observer. However, unlike the first film’s charmingly detestable Thrombey family, these friends of influencers are, for the most part, merely annoying. If it weren’t for the performers, they would end up as mere archetypes. They’re also the subjects of the social commentary, which because of the issues with our characters, is less engaging or funny. Blanc himself is more clownish this time and doesn’t take an interest in exploring why he’s at the island until later. The second half, where we get more into the mystery, is a much

“Is

That Black Enough For you?!?”

Film critic Elvis Mitchell examines the craft and power of African American films released from the landmark era of the 1970s.

Elivs Mitchell’s documentary has a style that goes back and forth between traditional documentary and personal essay, and those two formats can feel conflicting at times. However, the film still gives an informative look at early cinema’s struggle with proper representation and how the 1970s underground movement was the steppingstone for a greater push in modern blockbusters. The best parts of the films are interviews with actors of that era like Harry Belafonte and Margaret Avery, as you see their emotions and reflection on their work. One wishes for a look into the 1980s through modern day films to truly see the impact made, which also adds

“Stutz”

Jonah Hill has a candid conversation with his therapist Phil Stutz about mental health.

Hill’s first documentary is a simple, but resonant film. Getting into the psychology of Stutz’ worldview and how he became a psychologist is fascinating, along with Hill’s own insight. Essentially, it’s just two guys talking for a long while (save for a standout scene featuring Hill’s mother). It’s not a very critical or in-depth piece. The movie merely attempts to showcase the benefits of therapy and its impact on these two. And it works in that form.

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during the 90 minutes spent with the characters, which I suppose is the point. There’s no real sign of interest in the directing. Jennifer Lawrence does a good job, but Brian Tyree Henry offers the best performance here. I appreciate how it does have a neutral approach to the lead’s journey, no real melodrama, just a quiet walk with her and the people she knows. But in the end, it doesn’t leave any real impact. It’s more like a stage show (which makes sense given the director has stage history). The stage might have been a better medium for this film.

NEW RELEASES

December 2

• “Violent Night”

• “Women Talking” (Limited)

• “All the Beauty and the Bloodshed” (Limited)

December 9

• “The Whale” (Limited)

• “Empire Of Light” (Limited)

• Guillermo del Toro’s “Pinocchio” (Netflix)

• “Emancipation” (Apple TV+)

December 16

• “Avatar: The Way of Water”

• “Bardo, False Chronicles of a Handful of Truths” (Netflix)

• “Nanny” (Amazon Prime)

December 21

• “Puss In Boots: The Last Wish”

• “I Wanna Dance with Somebody”

“Causeway”

A soldier struggles to adjust to ordinary life after returning home.

“Causeway” doesn’t really have much new to offer in the “war PTSD” genre, and its short runtime and disconnected lead don’t help. It’s like the viewer is meandering around inside their head

December 23

• “Babylon”

December 25

• “A Man Called Otto” (Limited)

December 30

• “White Noise” (Netflix)

LITTLE ASIA CUISINE

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Bites Y our Guide to Local Dining

Woman’s ability to fly, e.g.

many

Cage’s character gets a glimpse of a different life (2 words)

Accustom

Bruce Willis’ ex

Use the blunt pencil tip

Autumn laborer

Lots and lots

Regale with a tale, e.g.

*Human from North Pole comes to NYC

*Bill Murray movie, inspired by Charles Dickens

Water-covered sandbank

Corncob

Orthopedic device

In the buff

Dryest, as in humor 48. Vacuum, pl.

Be theatrical

Katy Perry’s 2013 hit

Yorkshire river

Trivial lies

Drug smuggler

Pi times square of radius

Show of agreement, pl.

Game official, for short

Why You Still Have

Sciatica Pain

(And How To Get Rid Of It For Good)

-By Leading USA Sciatica Expert, Dr. Tom Padilla

Do everyday 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.

Getaway

ESCAPE TO SEDONA

Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock is a premier Sedona retreat that offers a full calendar of activities and amenities geared towards Sedona adventures, discovery and recovery.

Located less than a mile from Bell Rock, one of the most iconic rock formations and vortex sites, Hilton Sedona offers expansive suites, private balconies/patios and fireplaces in each guest room, and a collection of signature red rock view accommodations. Adventure awaits, from 18 holes of championship golf to off-road Pink Jeep adventures, and over 200 scenic hiking and biking trails. Guests are invited to enjoy chef-led culinary programs, curated mixology offerings, and a variety of energy-based therapies and workshops.

This season, Hilton Sedona transforms into a beloved winter wonderland. At the center of the action is an illuminated igloo village featuring igloo dining under Sedona’s award-winning sky, holiday décor, a wealth of culinary offerings, seasonal sips, and much more.

Located in the resort’s scenic outdoor garden at ShadowRock Tap + Table, igloo village is available now through the end of February. Perfect for individuals,

friends, families, and private groups, the village consists of five igloos that can accommodate groups of two to six guests in addition to two expansive holiday chalets that seat up to eight guests for private parties. Frosted with festive holiday décor, the igloos are available to resort guests and locals for nightly seating times between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.

In addition to the resort’s igloo village, guests can indulge in a full calendar of winter wonderland activities, featuring a variety of annual traditions for locals and visitors traveling to red rock country.

SEDONA’S WINTER WONDERLAND ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:

• Holly Jolly Happy Hour - offered daily from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at ShadowRock Tap + Table.

• Live Musical Performances - hosted in the outdoor garden at ShadowRock overlooking the igloo village, Tuesdays through Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• Star Gazing - hosted in the igloo village every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• Holiday Dining - resort guests and locals are invited to indulge in Chef Hector’s seasonal menu and delectable holiday offerings including a traditional Thanksgiving buffet, Christmas Day specials, and a four-course New Year’s Eve pairing.

• Seasonal Sips - festive cocktails include an apple crisp old fashioned, a beet martini, and a pecan pie Manhattan.

• Holiday Inspired Spa Offerings - from energy rituals that help restore balance and promote relaxation during the stressful holiday season, to eforea spa’s create your own body scrub class, guests are invited to participate in a variety of thematic wellness activities and therapies.

• Calls from Mrs. Claus - Mrs. Claus is just a phone call away, and she can’t wait to hear all about holiday wishes and Christmas traditions. Calls are available Dec. 20 to 23.

• Fit-mas Classes - More than 40 weekly fitness classes are available this season at the Sedona Athletic Club, including elf boot camp, trim-the-tree yoga, and more.

• Letters to Santa - activity available in the resort lobby.

Hilton Sedona also participates in Hilton’s award-winning guest loyalty program, Hilton Honors, which offers guests access to instant benefits and exclusive member discounts. Members can register at hiltonhonors.com/ powerup/gb or join Hilton Honors for free by enrolling online at hiltonhonors.com.

Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock is located at 90 Ridge Trail Dr. For questions or to book a reservation, please contact the hotel directly at 928-284-4040 or visit hiltonsedonaresort.com.

Photos Courtesy Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock