Scottsdale North News, March 2023

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

PUTTING WORLD SCOTTSDALE OPEN

Putting World Scottsdale is open at the Scottsdale Promenade, 16455 N. Scottsdale Rd. Featuring an 18-hole championship putting course complete with performance analysis technology and state-of-the-art training studios, the fresh concept combines semiprivate entertainment and game improvement focused 100% on putting.

Putting World Scottsdale brings together their proprietary motion capture technology, instruction, putter fitting, dynamic competition, and entertainment into one space. Customize your gamer in Wins Build Shop or take in a tournament from the best view in the house, the Karsten Club. Once you have your gamer custom fit and dialed in from a PGA or LPGA performance coach, members and guests of all levels can compete in the exclusive world putting tour for cash and prizes. At the end of your round, grab a bite from Bar Nineteen, which has a classic golf course inspired menu and kickback with a handcrafted cocktail. To learn more, visit puttingworld.com.

SHAMROCK

transformed into a bright green geyser at noon and 4 p.m. Irish Fountain Fest will feature a kid’s zone, traditional Irish folk dancing performances, a Celtic rock band, food trucks, the Crescent Crown Beer Garden, and much more. This event is open to families of all ages and is free to attend. Festivities are from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd. For more information, visit experiencefountainhills.org/ events/2023/irish-fest.

FREE TAX ASSISTANCE

Volunteer Tax Assistance (VITA) professionals will be assisting Scottsdale citizens who make less than $60,000 per year with free tax preparation at Vista del Camino Community Center, 7700 E. Roosevelt St., on Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. No appointments necessary. Bring: Photo ID, Social Security card for self, spouse, and dependents, all income information, last year’s return, and anything else to complete the return. The program runs through April 13. For more information, visit mastersofcoin.org/vita-faqs.

volunteered with the program to press block for use in building a design studio this spring, which gave them a hands-on look at the possibilities bricks of this type can have in their future projects.

This program combines volunteerism, community development, economic vitality, and environmental initiatives to develop awareness around the use of sustainable materials to build quality, energy-efficient structures. For more information, visit scottsdaleaz. gov/human-services/brick-by-brick.

Food, fun, and music will be a part of this familyfriendly event, and the world-famous fountain will be

Did you know Scottsdale Human Services is working to transform our community, brick by brick? Participants in the city’s Brick by Brick Program produce compressed earth blocks, which are adobe-like bricks, for use in Scottsdale capital projects and other areas throughout the community.

More than 25 architecture students from Arizona State University and the University of Washington recently

Pescada, a fine dining seafood restaurant with culinary influences from Western Europe and the Mediterranean, opened last month on Market Street at DC Ranch. The vision of Chef Sheila Bryson, who also operates Vic & Ola’s, as well as nearby Soul Café, Pescada features both a pre-fixe menu, in addition to an a la carte menu. A beautiful restaurant with a picturesque patio, the menu features an intriguing selection that includes three types of caviar, oysters, and starters including a lobster white asparagus salad and octopus carpaccio. Entrees include Chilean seabass, turbot, cioppino, and Iberico pork pluma. Pescada, 20707 N. Pima Rd., Suite 140, is open for dinner only. For more information, visit pescadascottsdale.com.

AND ROLL TO THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS FOR IRISH FOUNTAIN FEST

Put on your green and join the Town of Fountain Hills as they shamrock the hills with Irish Fountain Fest on Sat., March 11.

BRICK BY BRICK PROGRAM

PESCADA OPENS ON MARKET STREET AT DC RANCH

City News The Finer Arts Gallery Hosts March 17 “Art Affaire”

ONE OF THE NORTH VALLEY’S LARGEST ART GALLERIES, THE FINER ARTS GALLERY, WILL HIGHLIGHT THE WORKS OF TWO SCOTTSDALE ARTISTS THIS MONTH DURING A SPECIAL “ART AFFAIRE” ARTIST RECEPTION FROM 5 P.M. TO 7 P.M. ON FRI., MARCH 17. International fiber mixed media artist Kristin Kleyer Mangum and glass artist Kathy Nelson are two of 50 artists represented by the unique art gallery, located in Cave Creek’s historic Treehouse building, 6137 E. Cave Creek Rd., next to Big Earl’s.

Kristin Kleyer Mangum travels internationally on what she calls the “ultimate treasure hunt” for the finest pure fiber. She seeks out local fiber shops and farms for pure wools, cottons, and other precious finds, selecting colors that are inspired by the country’s landscape, architecture, and culture. Stitch by stitch, coil by coil, with hand and needle, she weaves her international pure wools around cotton to create earthy, organic sculptural forms. She produces her elegant, tactile work both while traveling and back in her studio. In addition, she hand builds ceramic, wood, and metal structures to incorporate into her fiber mixed media sculptures.

“I have a design in mind, but I also listen to the natural materials, giving them a voice,” Mangum says. “It’s a beautiful symphony of push and pull, leading to a finished result that speaks to you and tells its story.”

Nelson also creates stunning three-dimensional art, only her chosen media is fused glass. Recently retired from the health care field, she spent 25 years using the left side of her brain before she was able to fully tap into her creativity. While traveling to Europe, she was fascinated by the stained glass she encountered in cathedrals and other historic buildings. She began taking stained glass workshops and progressed to fused glass. Her featured work

includes vibrant fused glass wall sculptures, whimsical tabletop pieces, and functional ware.

“The ancient art of working glass has always been an area of interest to me,” Nelson says. “The durability of Egyptian glass represents the lasting quality of glass pieces. How can something so fragile exist for millennia? The play of light in glass intrigues me, and I try to capture that with the work I create.”

Visitors to The Finer Arts Gallery will find diverse paintings, drawings, sculpture, mixed media, photography, glass, wood, fiber, ceramics, jewelry, and other original work. The March featured artists also include fine art photographer Robert Elenbaas and pastel painter Beverly Carlson-Bradshaw. For details, call 480488-2923 or visit thefinerartsgallery.com.

North Small Business Spotlight

Health Cellutions

MVP Medical Care

Ginny's Kitchen

Liberty Station

Foothills Caring Corps

Cherry On Top

Why Hello, Modern Home

Hecho A Mano

Brown's Ranch

The Meat Market

Brix Wines

English Tea Room

Arizona Silk Flower

JJ's Deli

And Many More!

Have A Business we should Spotlight?

Check us out @ ConnectingScottsdaleNorth.com or like us on Facebook and Tell us who you want us to Spotlight in the coming months!

Bronze Irid by Kathy Nelson.

Italy Natural Strength by Kristin Kleyer Mangum.

Italy Feelings Of Tuscany Kristin Kleyer Mangum.

Kristin Kleyer Mangum with fiber

City News Rodeo Scottsdale Kicks into High Gear

Annual March event held at WestWorld of Scottsdale Equidome.

Photos courtesy of Rodeo Scottsdale

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

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

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

Rodeo is a sport that stands out from

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

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

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

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

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

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

City News Scottsdale Dumpster Dive Scavenger Hunt

Photo courtesy of the City of Scottsdale

ART IS EVERYWHERE IN OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE, INCLUDING ON TRASH BINS. Find, snap, and upload a selfie with three artist-decorated bins to win prizes.

Three new trash bins were designed by local artist Jon Arvizu and painted in collaboration with the community for Canal Convergence in November 2022. The artist-painted bins were put into service in February 2023 in Old Town Scottsdale.

To participate in the contest, find all three trash bins, which are all in Old Town Scottsdale in the

area bounded by Camelback Road, 75th Street, Osborn Road, and Goldwater Boulevard. Snap a selfie with each bin and upload it to the website listed below to win prizes, then tag your photos on social media #ScottsdaleDumpsterDive for an extra entry into the prize drawing.

All participants that find a bin and upload photos with all three will receive a water bottle sticker of these unique and functional works of art. Participants will also be entered in weekly drawings for gift certificates to restaurants and businesses in Old Town Scottsdale

To submit your selfies, visit scottsdaleaz.gov/ solid-waste/scottsdale-dumpster-dive.

The 33rd Annual Copperstate 1000 Returns to Arizona

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

City News

Art, Food, and Wine Event Supports Dementia Care in Our Community

By Lin Sue Flood Photos courtesy of Hospice of the Valley

ENJOY A BEAUTIFUL EVENING OUT

WHILE SUPPORTING A WONDERFUL CAUSE AT HOSPICE OF THE VALLEY’S SIGNATURE FUNDRAISER: AAHA! ART. FOOD. WINE. In 45 years, no one in need of care has been turned away by the notfor-profit agency, and that is largely due to community generosity.

“We are grateful to local businesses and individuals whose donations make this event so unique and special,” says Debbie Shumway, executive director of Hospice of the Valley. “This year, we are focusing on families who are caring for a loved one with dementia, raising funds for programs that we provide at no charge in the community, and at our new Dementia Care and Education Campus.”

You can still get tickets for the March 11 gala at the JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn and bid on fine art, unique wines, dining experiences, dreamy getaways, and exciting trips, including a luxury excursion to Spain. The benefit event is from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and features spectacular silent and live auctions, raffle prizes (including diamond earrings and a Ralph Lauren suede crossbody bag), an elegant dinner, and lively dancing to The Hamptons.

HERE’S A PEEK AT THIS YEAR’S FABULOUS LIVE AUCTION ITEMS:

2. Food and wine lovers will savor an evening with one of the Valley’s most well-known and beloved chefs. Mark Tarbell is cooking up something special for an intimate group of friends, pairing exquisite cuisine with exceptional wines.

3. A private jet transports you to exclusive Triple Creek Ranch, high in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, for a three-night stay. The tranquil escape includes horseback riding, mountain bike riding, fly-fishing, archery, sapphire panning, guided yoga and much more.

afternoon,

1. Explore the charm of Madrid and Seville in a six-night stay that includes luxury boutique hotels, gourmet meals, tours and day trips, shopping, cooking classes, and flamenco dancing at a tapas and dinner show.

4. Hop on a Bell 429 helicopter and land outside your sky-view cabin at Castle Hot Springs, Arizona’s famous luxury and wellness retreat. Unplug from the world, relax in the hot spring’s magical powers, and try fun activities like a farm tour, garden workshop, horseback riding, wine tastings, and mixology classes.

For more information, visit hov.org/ events/aaha-art-food-wine or contact Heather Brogan at hbrogan@hov.org or (602) 636-5314.

5. Art lovers will adore a brilliant-white enamelwork horse sculpture by Arizona artist Carl Dahl. The piece, “Justified,” stands proud and regal.

6. Artist Elaine G. Coffee’s “The Mysteries of Art” is a sophisticated glimpse into everyday life that captures people enjoying a leisurely

immersed in the masterpieces at The Met.

7. Delight in nature’s beauty with artist Scott Christensen’s stunning painting, “Seasonal Golds in Jackson.” The colorful landscape beckons the nature lover in all of us.

City News Get Groovin’ at the Arizona Jazz Festival

By Shay Moser

IT’S “THE PLACE TO FIND YOUR FUN,” ACCORDING TO HIGH STREET’S WEBSITE. While the outdoor entertainment district in north Phoenix offers specialty salons, fashion boutiques, trendy bars, and gourmet restaurants for visitors’ enjoyment, it often transforms its grounds to host concerts and car shows. This spring, it will host a festival.

High Street will welcome the Arizona Jazz Fest for the second year this month. Expected to attract 7,500 music aficionados, the festival will set the stage for more than 20 national acts on Fri., March 24, through Sun., March 26. The three-day event will showcase renowned R&B and jazz talent from all over the world.

“We have some of the best musicians in the world on stage in one weekend, and everybody comes for the love of music,” says the Arizona Jazz Festival organizer Brad Laughlin.

Laughlin says the Arizona Jazz festival has come to the Valley for over 30 years, though it’s moved around.

A LOOK AT THE LINEUP

The star-studded lineup includes 17-time Grammy-nominated Anthony Hamilton, who is taking the stage as the headliner Fri., March 24. The American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer rose to fame with his platinum-selling second studio album “Comin' from Where I'm From” (2003), which featured the title track single “Comin' from Where I'm From” and the follow-up “Charlene.” His album “Love Is the New Black” (2021) includes one of his new releases featuring Rick Ross titled “Real Love,” which is making big waves. Also scheduled to perform on Friday at the festival are Eric Darius, Rebecca Jade, LeVelle, and Vincent Ingala.

Headlining Saturday is Morris Day and the Time, a group assembled by Prince and fronted by Day since 1981. Following Day’s

performance on Saturday are Jonathan Butler, Wendy Moten, Michael Lington, Julian Vaughn, Marcus Anderson, Adam Hawley, Lao Tizer, Chieli Minucci, Elliott Yamin, Eric Marienthal, Karen Briggs, and Jeff Bradshaw.

Closing out the festival on Sun., March 26, headlining will be Stephanie Mills, who first came to fame as the young girl that played Dorothy in the hit Broadway play “The Wiz.” She later had five R&B hits, one million-selling single, and five gold albums.

Musiq Soulchild, whose off-stage name is Taalib Johnson, is another R&B artist closing the event on Sunday. He had six major-label albums, four of which went either gold or platinum in the U.S. and earned 11 Grammy nominations over a decade. Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Sheila E., Brian Simpson, Kim Waters, Maysa, and Euge Groove will follow.

FOOD, TICKETS, AND FUN

The festival will have various food and beverage options for attendees all weekend.

Beer and wine will be available for purchase, along with multiple food choices.

Official tickets for the Arizona Jazz Festival event on High Street are sold exclusively on azjazzfest.com. Laughlin doesn’t recommend purchasing tickets from third-party resellers like StubHub, Vivid Seats, Seat Geek, Ticketfly, or Craigslist. “We are unable to guarantee or verify the validity of tickets purchased from a third party,” he says.

The festival entry gates are scheduled to open at 3 p.m. on Fri., March 24, and at 11 a.m. on Sat. and Sun., March 25 and 26. Showtime is at 4 p.m. on Friday and noon on Saturday and Sunday. All shows will conclude at 10 p.m.

High Street is located north of Loop 101 at the 56th Street exit in North Phoenix, just east of Desert Ridge Marketplace. To learn more about the Arizona Jazz Festival and reserve seats, visit azjazzfest.com, call 602244-8444, or email info@azjazzfest.com.

Ravenscroft Hall offers an unparalleled musical experience with superb acoustics featuring the renowned Meyer Constellation sound system. Fans will enjoy an optimal listening experience and perfect viewing from any seat in this performance space. Some shows will also feature projected visuals that accompany the music, creating a multi-sensory experience for attendees.

2-Time Grammy Award Winner

City News Collaboration Leads to Landmark Land Conservation

Photo courtesy of the Desert Foothills Land Trust

ARIZONA HAS TAKEN A NOTABLE STEP FORWARD TOWARDS PRESERVING ITS NATURAL BEAUTY FOR GENERATIONS TO COME THROUGH THE POWER OF COLLABORATION. The town of Cave Creek, Maricopa County, and the Desert Foothills Land Trust (DFLT) are proud to announce the conservation of nearly 30 acres of critical land near the trailhead of the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area, a special part of the state’s pristine landscape.

For several years, the town of Cave Creek, Maricopa County, and DFLT have been working together to identify and protect lands that surround or are adjacent to the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. The recent listing of a critical property for sale presented an opportunity to protect the land forever. Thanks to a patient but steadfast partnership, the land has now been protected. The Land Trust negotiated the purchase, and the town and county provided the funds for it. The town and county now own the land, and DFLT holds a conservation easement, ensuring its protection in perpetuity.

“The protection of this property was one of our highest priorities,” says Vicki Preston, president and CEO of Desert Foothills Land Trust. “The development of several homes and driveways adjacent to the trailhead would have had a detrimental impact on the conservation success of the area.” She added that “this was a very difficult deal, with many moving parts, none of which could have been accomplished alone. Having the expertise of so many was invaluable, and the true want for this to happen by all of us is what pushed it over the finish line.” Preston has a strong personal

connection to this project, sharing that “this was a huge win for all of us, and I’m personally proud of this deal.”

“The county is thrilled to have acquired this parcel of land near Spur Cross Ranch, which enlarges the footprint of the Conservation Area,” says District 2 Supervisor Thomas Galvin. “I appreciate all the hard work that the Desert Foothills Land Trust and R.J. Cardin’s team at Parks put into this effort to ensure that the land will be protected for future generations.” Meanwhile, District 3 Supervisor Bill Gates expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating that “had it not been for our great partnerships with the town of Cave Creek and Desert Foothills Land Trust, Inc., this transaction may not have been possible.”

Luke Kautzman, development services director for the town of Cave Creek, states, “Preservation was, is, and will be into the future, the cornerstone of Cave Creek’s image.” With the protection of this 30-acre property, there are now over 9,701 acres of dedicated open space in the Town of Cave Creek, enhancing the success of conservation efforts even further…the Land Trust connects people to nature through land acquisition and long-term stewardship, as well as events and activities that allow the community to use and enjoy the lands that have been protected. Future generations will benefit from this incredible legacy of conserved land.”

To learn more, visit dflt.org.

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“Why Hello!” modern home offers a wide range of carefully curated luxury home accessories and decor sourced from small-town main streets across the country. “Why Hello!” is more than just another shop. It is an experience meant to be savoured and enjoyed.

City News Fresh Museum Concept Lands in the Valley

Photos courtesy of the Museum of Illusions

THE MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS IS SET TO OPEN MARCH 11 AND DELIGHT VALLEY RESIDENTS WITH EXPERIENTIAL ILLUSIONS AND EXHIBITS. The Museum of Illusions Scottsdale will be permanently situated alongside OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland in the Arizona Boardwalk, the area’s premier entertainment destination. The Scottsdale location will be the latest installment of the Museum of Illusions’ global presence, with more than 35 locations worldwide.

“We are thrilled to be bringing the Museum of Illusions to Scottsdale, which is an ideal city for such an engaging and new museum concept,” says Stacy Stec, marketing manager for LOL Entertainment, parent company of Museum of Illusions Scottsdale. “This city has a buzzing scene and provides the perfect landscape for the expansion of the museum’s U.S. presence. We are confident that people of all ages will love seeing and experiencing the museum’s unique illusions, exhibits, and immersive rooms.”

The Museum of Illusions offers visual and educational displays designed to tease the senses and bring out the playful side in guests of all ages. With more than 60 exhibits featuring holograms, stereograms, and optical illusions, visitors will learn about vision, perception, and the human brain, as well as experience firsthand the science of how the eyes can trick the mind. Exhibits range from classics to the never-before seen. Guests will walk on walls in the Rotated Room, defy gravity in the Tilted Room, and appear to grow and shrink in the Ames Room.

“While our museum certainly is visually engaging and has those photo-worthy moments, it is about so much more,” says Stec. “We’ve carefully and thoughtfully designed this museum to provide an educational experience that will leave guests feeling inspired long after they leave. We can’t wait to challenge minds and provide a hands-on, immersive experience for all ages.”

For more information on the Museum of Illusions, visit moiscottsdale.com.

Parkinson’s Wellness Day at The J

THE VALLEY OF THE SUN JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER (“THE J”) WILL HOST A FUN AND INFORMATIVE SPECIAL EVENT FOR THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE. The “Parkinson’s Wellness Day” event will be held on Thur., March 30, from 9:15 a.m. to noon. This free event is open to the public. Physical therapist, Shannon Jameson, and speech-language pathologist, Therese Uthke, will describe the importance of their respective professions, highlight clinical updates from recent studies, and provide useful tips and strategies on how to move and speak with intent. All attendees are asked to wear comfortable clothing to move in. Exercise is optional

and will be adapted for the chair if needed. There will be a refreshment break.

Advanced registration is required at vosjcc.org/ pdwellness. For more information about this

Parkinson’s Wellness Day event, contact Jonell Mertens at jonellm@vosjcc.org. Everyone is welcome at The J - all backgrounds, faiths, and abilities. The J is located at 12701 N. Scottsdale Rd. For more information about The J, call (480) 483-7121 or visit vosjcc.org

City News

Miners’ Dinner Fundraiser at the Cave Creek Museum Public invited for historic demonstrations, dinner, and entertainment.

Photos courtesy of the Cave Creek Museum

CAVE CREEK MUSEUM WILL HOST THE ANNUAL MINERS’ DINNER ON MARCH 21 FROM 4:30 P.M. TO 8 P.M.

The event, a major fundraiser for the museum, honors the museum’s past and exciting future. Along with dinner catered by Cave Creek’s iconic The Horny Toad, the museum will offer a silent auction, raffle, and local entertainment. The cost is $75 per person and reservations must be made in advance by March 18. Raffle tickets, which are $25, also may be purchased online or at the event.

Demonstrations of the amazing Golden Reef Stamp Mill and blacksmithing start at 5:15 p.m. In addition, guests will preview custom

hats by Watson’s Hat Shop and see western fashions presented by Summit Chico’s. Dinner is served at 6 p.m. Cowboy balladeer Mike Ewing will perform.

In addition, the museum will raffle a Tucson getaway that includes an overnight stay for two at the Hilton El Conquistador Resort, tickets to the University of Arizona Biosphere

2, four tickets to the University of Arizona Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, and four tickets to Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

Dinner and raffle tickets can be purchased online at cavecreekmuseum.org. Seating is limited to 150 persons, so please reserve early. No culture passes will be accepted for this event. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Dr.

City News

Scottsdale Family ArtsFest at SkySong Debuts in March

New community event celebrates visual, performing arts created by Scottsdale K-12 students.

SCOTTSDALE FAMILY ARTSFEST AT SKYSONG WILL BE HELD AT SKYSONG, THE ASU SCOTTSDALE INNOVATION CENTER IN SOUTH SCOTTSDALE. The event is a partnership between Arizona State University, the Scottsdale Unified School District, the city of Scottsdale, Scottsdale Arts, and the SkySong development team.

Scottsdale Family ArtsFest at SkySong is a free, two-day festival of creativity that includes performances, interactive demonstrations, creative interventions, and culinary delights from local food trucks throughout the SkySong campus.

Over the course of the event, attendees will experience performances and art exhibitions delivered by Scottsdale Unified School District students, family friendly arts activities presented by Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation, and interactive demonstrations from city of Scottsdale departments.

The event starts on Fri., March 24 and runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. that day, and will resume Sat., March 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be several different areas to explore, including:

Center Stage will feature performances by

SUSD bands, choirs, and orchestras. This area will also include hands-on, artist-led activities from Scottsdale Arts including puppetry, painting, and souvenir tote bags.

Art exhibitions from elementary, middle, and high school students will be throughout SkySong’s campus. A highlight includes bowls created by SUSD students that will be available for sale to support families facing food insecurity in Scottsdale.

The Café Stage presents smaller ensemble performances, interactive experiences presented by city of Scottsdale departments, and light refreshments.

Seed funding for the event was provided by a grant from the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust to Arizona State University. Sponsorships for the Scottsdale Family ArtsFest at SkySong are available as well. For more information, visit skysong.com/artsfest.

Exclusively Little Expo and Tents by the Tracks McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park offers families two fun events.

Photo courtesy of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

LOOKING FOR LOCAL RESOURCES FOR YOUR YOUNG CHILDREN AND LOTS OF FAMILY FUN? Don’t miss the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park’s Exclusively Little Expo on Sat., March 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., where a wide range of exhibitors will provide information about family friendly programs, services, and products. Get

great information for your family and catch a ride on Scottsdale’s railroad, all at the same time.

If you have little ones or are new to the Valley, the Exclusively Little Expo is the spot to gather valuable insight heading into the summertime. There will be lots of activities exclusively for kids and train rides.

Train rides on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad and Charros Carousel are $3. Children two and under ride free with a paying adult.

Meanwhile, Tents by the Tracks is April 1 and 2 from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m. Pitch your tents by the tracks and experience a night of fun and adventure while camping at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale. All you’ll need are your tents and sleeping bags to enjoy an evening of family

fun underneath the stars. They will have a variety of activities suitable for all ages, including a full catered dinner, a movie, breakfast, and unlimited train and carousel rides. Hartley’s General Store will be open for ice cream and other treats.

For more information, visit therailroadpark.com/events. FRESH

City News Phoenix Film Festival is Back on the Big Screen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tickets and additional details are available at phoenixfilmfestival.com.

4/17 Respect: Aretha Franklin Tribute 4/29 Takin’ It To

A Doobie Brothers Tribute

Folk Legacy Trio

Chris Botti

3/31 Tito Puente Jr.

3/27 Rosanne Cash

3/19 Zukerman Trio

3/5 Michael Feinstein & Jean Yves Thibaudet

Education Save the Date for Rock the District

Rock the District is the Cave Creek Unified School District’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

The event features a rousing concert performed by talented students in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

In addition to a fun night of fundraising, Rock the District participants can reserve a spot in the VIP section, which provides a place to relax with beverages and snacks while enjoying the show.

There will also be a dessert food truck. An online silent auction, as well as a live auction event, includes vouchers for stays at the Arizona Biltmore, Hotel del Coronado, Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, Great Wolf Lodge Scottsdale, as well as Fender guitars, Bearizona tickets, Science Museum tickets, and more.

This family friendly event is April 15 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Harold’s Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Rd. For more information, visit rockthedistrict.net.

Cactus Shadows Band

Scores Distinction

Congratulations to the Cactus Shadows Band students for their outstanding showing at the Regional Band tryouts! These band students auditioned with a solo and scales and earned a spot among the best performers in the region.

Ben Anderson — Tuba, Carmen Burton-Euphonium, Zeke Knibbe — Bari Saxophone, Dan Duffy — Mallet Percussion, Izzy Haber — Tenor Saxophone, Maya Ochoa — Clarinet, Ericka Espina-Alto Saxophone, Lillian Heck — Trumpet, and Isabella Duncan — Flute. Not Pictured: Carter Nelson and Ashton Sarrett.

Education Scottsdale Prep Students are National Merit Finalists

By Jason Moore, Great Hearts Content Producer

Three seniors from Scottsdale Prep, a Great Hearts Academy, have been selected as National Merit Finalists. Grace Horner, Raywon Kim, and Travis Santa have each been recognized as one of the 15,000 highest scoring entrants of the PSAT, qualifying them for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program as finalists of over 1.5 million entrants.

Grace Horner will attend the NAU Honors College and will receive the Lumberjack Scholarship, which covers full tuition for four years. Horner will study forestry and may potentially minor in art. She took many practice PSAT exams to prepare and attended in-person prep classes at Scottsdale Education Center.

Raywon Kim plans to study political science and is waiting to hear back from colleges on his acceptance. Kim suggests putting yourself in the testing environment prior to test day by taking practice exams at the time of day in which you will be taking the official PSAT or SAT. He also utilized Khan Academy for SAT prep. Kim says, “The time on test day will go by quicker than you expect, so make sure that you are on a good pace and not spending too much time on any one passage.”

Travis Santa plans to study business and may attend the University of Mississippi or Arizona State University but is waiting to hear back from other colleges. Santa adds, “Juniors should prepare for their PSAT, because being named a National Merit Semifinalist/Finalist can result in many scholarship opportunities.”

“Grace, Raywon, and Travis are three of nine National Merit Finalists in the Great Hearts Network this year,” says Great Hearts Director of College Counseling, Roslyn Fletcher. “Other finalists were named at Cicero Prep, Chandler Prep, North Phoenix Prep, and Glendale Prep. Scoring in the top 1% in the state of Arizona is a very realistic goal for many juniors across the Great Hearts network. We expose our high school students to the PSAT early by administering the official PSAT to all 10th grade students across the network. This exposure along with encouraging students to utilize free, personalized test prep through Khan Academy generally result in 6 to 12 Semifinalists/Finalists each year. National Merit Finalists typically have the opportunity to pursue merit scholarships that cover full tuition and sometimes even more at many institutions across the country.”

National Merit SemifinalistsRaywon Kim, Travis Santa, and Grace Horner.

Education Fundamental Program Components Set The Orme School Apart

Photos courtesy of The Orme School

Go West. Go Orme.

College-Preparatory Boarding School

8-12

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go West! Go Orme!

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

is a

There are 40 horses onsite for equestrian coursework.

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

There

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

TEST YOUR PH KNOWLEDGE WITH CABBAGE CHEMISTRY RAINBOWS

What’sbetter than cabbage and rainbows in March?

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

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

• 1 head red cabbage

• Safety glasses

• 6 cups boiling water

• Blender

• Strainer

• Large bowl or pitcher

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

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

• 5 clear drinking glasses

• Lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

• White vinegar

• Baking soda

• Laundry detergent

• Spoons or sticks for mixing

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT DID YOU OBSERVE?

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

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

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

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

Cover Story

By Shay Moser

What if we focused more on the conditions for creating health rather than treating disease with prescription medications and medical procedures? This simple change in perspective is the foundation of functional medicine and fitness: addressing the root causes of chronic ailments. It’s also the wellness philosophy that Health Cellutions in north Scottsdale embraces.

Dr. Brian Thompson founded the one-of-a-kind health and performance studio in 2020 to offer non-invasive programs to provide result-oriented “cellutions” to encourage regeneration and recovery of the whole body. The studio combines biological knowledge with cutting-edge technology to create an environment where the body’s natural healing ability takes over. Through various services, Health Cellutions works to address and eliminate the underlying causes of pain instead of only managing symptoms.

“With functional medicine and fitness, our diagnosis doesn’t stop at the symptom or illness level,” says Dr. Thompson, the studio’s director. “We continue to peel away the layers to identify the source of that symptom or illness, almost always at the cellular level.

“If we address the root cause,” continues Dr. Thompson, “whether it be metabolically with hormones or the thyroid or a pinched nerve through the spine of the muscle or a previous injury, the symptoms disappear.”

HOW HEALTH CELLUTIONS CAME TO BE

Functional Medicine and Fitness’ Means Focusing on Natural Healing at Health Cellutions

An advocate of natural healing throughout his profession, Dr. Thompson began his career in dental surgery before founding Global Strategies Inc. to offer strategic consultations and professional business coaching to healthcare practitioners throughout North America. After losing close family members unexpectedly to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, he wanted to focus more on natural healing to help others live their best life possible, and Health Cellutions was the answer.

Dr. Thompson applied Health Cellutions’ natural healing practices firsthand when his son was in an accident, severely fracturing his spine and feet. His son was told he could never walk or put pressure on his feet

Dr. Thompson treating NBA star Nick Young “Swaggy” of LA Lakers fame.

again. “The doctor said he’d need spinal fusion and rod implantation surgery,” he explains.

Instead of surgery, Dr. Thompson used Health Cellutions protocols on his son. After undergoing regenerative pain and performance therapy, Dr. Thompson’s son regained the full function of his back and feet. He could walk his mother down the aisle at his sister’s wedding six months after the accident.

“We believe that our bodies are designed to heal themselves,” Dr. Thompson says. “If we give our bodies the energy, exercise, nutrients, and oxygen, and increase the blood flow into compromised areas, like my son’s feet and spine, we get healing. Our bodies are designed to heal themselves, not to be medicated, radiated, and cut into.”

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE AND FITNESS SERVICES

Health Cellutions’ unique integration of cellular health, fitness, and data-driven performance technology addresses pain, performance deficiencies, weight issues, hormone imbalance, bladder incontinence, and cognitive health.

“We’re a hybrid of ancient wisdom that includes acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, and ultra-modern technology,” Dr. Thompson says.

Dr. Nicole Turcotte of Get Well Scottsdale joined Health Cellutions this month to offer naturopathic, hormonal, and nutritional health services. Acupuncture, massage, and IV therapy are also available at the studio.

“Everything we do is customized,” says Dr. Thompson. “That’s why we have the various specialists on board, such as exercise physiologists and acupuncturists. That’s why we have all these modalities, so we can customize the care to specific needs to overcome challenges.”

A few modern modalities at Health Cellutions include PEMF Pulse therapy and low-level electromagnetic pulses to soothe damaged joints, reduce inflammation, and speed up the body’s natural healing process. Oxygen training, cryotherapy, and infrared sauna technology heal chronic physical ailments while providing therapeutic advantages.

In addition, Health Cellutions provides modern strength and fitness benefits

with the Vasper system, Adaptive Resistance™ exercise machine, and Skier’s Edge. Each training system has distinctive features and advantages and ensures users actively increase their strength, speed, and stamina steadily and in a much shorter time than the gym.

Health Cellutions was invited to Gronk Beach, presented by The Beast Unleashed, at the Super Bowl 2023 at Talking Stick Resort to highlight and offer demos of these existing fitness modalities and introduce new fitness systems. “They invited us because we’re the only facility in the state with all the equipment to treat the whole body naturally,” Dr. Thompson explains.

One new fitness modality, the EMFACE® system, demoed by four-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski and other celebrities at the event, stimulates, tones, and tightens facial muscles. Another demonstrated method targets the abs, so users get roughly 20,000 supermax contractions in a 30-minute session.

Personalized metabolic testing and nutritional assessments are also available to guide healthcare routines and meal plans tailored to individual needs.

Health Cellutions offers a complimentary session to new clients. After discussing challenges and goals with Dr. Thompson, the first visit includes a studio tour and custom plan.

“We typically start with the energy modalities and oxygen during the first session to reduce inflammation and increase the natural detoxification pathways throughout your body,” says Dr. Thompson. “This gives the client more function; if we have proper hydration and add oxygen therapy into the mix, the whole circulatory system, respiratory system, and every cell in the body begins to function optimally, the body can heal itself.”

“We’re here to help you function better on a cellular, physical, emotional, and mental level,” Dr. Thompson says. “We don’t have side effects from what we do here. We have side benefits.”

To learn more and begin naturally healing, visit healthcellutions.com or call 480-553-9171.

This content sponsored by Health Cellutions.

Four-time Super Bowl Champion Rob Gronkowski with Dr. Thompson after trying out the EMFACE® system.

Cryotherapy is used for pain, inflammation, and calorie burning.

Health Cellutions offers high-tech personalized fitness and regeneration in a unique, relaxed, and semi-private setting with a trainer by your side at all times. It’s all about the client experience and results.

#1 Most Modifiable Risk Factor for Preventing Dementia

The Early Treatment of Hearing Loss and Tinnitus with Modern Treatment Plans

March

Limited Seating; RSVP Required • Lunch served after presentation

Who This Event Is For:

1. If you are over the age of 50

2. If you have experienced Tinnitus, or ringing/buzzing/chirping in the ears

3. If your doctor has ever told you that you were diabetic

4. If you have high blood pressure

5. If you sometimes have difficulty hearing

6. If you are retired without a driving purpose

7. If you forget more than you used to, or are having more ‘Senior Moments’

8. If any of the above apply to you, a loved one, or neighbor we look forward to seeing you and them at this Dementia Education Event

Learn From Guest Lecturer

Harvard Medical & M.I.T. Trained Neuroscientist and Certified Dementia Practitioner

Dr. Keith Darrow, PhD, CCC-A

M.I.T. and Harvard Medical Trained Neuroscientist and Clinical Audiologist

Amazon #1 New Release & Best-Selling Author Spokesman, Excellence In Audiology

Expert in Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology Professor at Worcester State University

Nationally Recognized Speaker, Trainer, and Researcher Research Associate at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary His publications and research cited over 1000 times

Health

Hearing and Brain Center Opens in North Scottsdale

Exercise. Eat healthfully. Don’t smoke. Manage health issues such as diabetes. Most people know these habits are important for a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of dementia. Yet, many are unaware of the number one preventive health measure to prevent dementia.

“Treating hearing loss is eight times more important than reducing obesity and diabetes and four times as important as physical exercise to reduce the risk of dementia,” says Dr. Keith Darrow, the only Harvard Medical and M.I.T.-trained neuroscientist focused on private practice audiology.

Dr. Darrow is best known for his work as a neuroscientist and audiologist, but today his mission is educating people. He does this as an author and the director and founder of the Hearing and Brain Centers of America and the Excellence in Audiology network of offices throughout the U.S.

Peripheral neuropathy is the pain, discomfort, and numbness caused by nerve damage of the peripheral nervous system

Diane expressed that standing in the kitchen cooking was very painful "How can you imagine the next 30 years when you don't even want to get out of bed to do simple things?"

She was experiencing the burning, numbness, tingling, and sharp pains that those suffering from nerve pain often describe "The way that I would describe it, it's equivalent to an electric shock "

Diane hadn't slept more than 4 hours at a time in five years and was cancelling family events because she was fearful she would end up in too much pain by the end of the day.

HIGHEST-RATED HEARING LOSS AND TINNITUS TREATMENT

As part of the Hearing and Brain Centers of America national expansion to treat more of the 42 million Americans in need of hearing loss and tinnitus treatment, a North Scottsdale location celebrates its grand opening on March 7. Located at 8900 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Ste. C-2, in the northeast corner of Pinnacle Peak and Pima next to Lamp Pizzeria.

Patients at the Hearing and Brain Center of Arizona in Scottsdale benefit from Dr. Darrow’s comprehensive programs for preventing decline through the medical treatment of hearing loss and tinnitus.

Patients see a team of experienced doctors and specialists who provide personalized hearing care plans based on their needs, lifestyle, and budget. The center offers several cutting-edge treatment options, which patients learn about at their initial complimentary treatment consultation. Plus, all

treatments offer a lifetime satisfaction guarantee.

“We offer a completely new and simple approach at the Hearing and Brain Centers. The medical treatment of hearing loss and tinnitus is not a hearing aid. Instead, we’ve identified the

most important aspects of treatment that improve hearing in all situations, reduce the ringing in your ears, and help you prevent cognitive decline and dementia.”

For more information, visit hearinganddementia.com.

D i a n e h a d b e e n e x p e r i e n c i n g t h e p a i n f u l s i d e e f f e c t s o f n e u r o p a t h y , " m y f e e t w e r e e x t r e m e l y p a i n f u l a n d I w a s t o l d t h e r e w a s n o t h i n g e l s e t h e y c o u l d d o " S h e t r i e d i n j e c t i o n s , m e d i c a t i o n s , e x e r c i s e a n d n o t h i n g w o r k e d . T h e n s h e m e t D r . K o u r t n e y Z a m o r a , a d o c t o r o f a c u p u n c t u r e a t Zamora Acupuncture in north Scottsdale, Arizona.

Fortunately, Diane started Dr. Zamora's pain relief program and has had lasting relief.

D i a n e e n t h u s i a s t i c a l l y d e s c r i b e s l i f e a f t e r r e c e i v i n g D r . Z a m o r a ’ s t r e a t m e n t s . “ I c a n n o w s l e e p w i t h o u t p a i n a n d w a l k w i t h o u t p a i n ! N o w w h e n I g o t o b e d a t n i g h t I d o n ’ t h a v e t h o s e s h o o t i n g p a i n s . I d o n ’ t h a v e t h a t b u r n i n g s e n s a t i o n I ' m a b l e t o g e t a g o o d n i g h t s r e s t . "

Dr Kourtney Zamora, D Ac founder of Zamora Acupuncture in Scottsdale is using the time-tested science of acupuncture combined with modern technology for lasting pain relief.

If you’ve missed out on social or f amily gatherings, it's time you start living and feeling your best!! Dr. Zamora has expertise in treating cases that have not responded to other treatments; specifically, cases of nerve pain.

Dr Zamora is once again accepting new patients. Call to schedule a complimentary consultation. During this visit will be determined if you would benefit from Dr. Zamora's treatments

"I CAN ENJOY MY LIFE AGAIN!"

Real Estate

Shop Small While You Are Here!

By Scott Gaertner, Associate Broker

The Saturday after Thanksgiving is National Small Business Saturday because that is the heart of one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. The purpose of this annual occasion is to raise awareness and encourage everyone to shop small and patronize businesses that are locally owned. But many of you are not here in November, and we want to remind you to shop small while you are here in Scottsdale North!

After all, according to statistics, for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $43 stays in the local economy. While you are here in your second hometown, there are many reasons to keep your business in the local community.

10 REASONS TO BUY LOCAL IN SCOTTSDALE NORTH

Information provided by Local First Arizona

There are many reasons to spend your money with Arizona’s local businesses. These are the top reasons why it matters to buy local for products, services, shopping, dining, and more.

1. Keep money in the local economy

Studies have shown that up to four times more money stays in the local economy when those dollars are spent with local businesses than with national chains.

2. Keep money in your wallet

There is a myth out there that local businesses are more expensive than national chains and online mega retailers. This simply isn’t true, as products and services from local businesses are oftentimes less expensive than the alternative.

3. Foster Community Pride in a Unique Sense of Place

Local businesses contribute to a unique

sense of place that fosters community pride, and when people are proud of their hometown, they tend to care more, to volunteer more, to vote more, and give more.

4. Support the Community Through Local Businesses

The Institute for Local Self-Reliance has found that local businesses tend to give back to their community more through charitable giving than national chain stores. Local businesses regularly give a higher percentage of their revenue back to the community than big box stores. So, when you buy local, you’re helping local businesses to have more resources to give back to your community.

5. Create Jobs in Your Community

When you support local businesses, you’re creating demand for high quality and diverse jobs across the state. Local businesses in turn hire fellow local businesses in the community for products and services that they need to fulfill your orders and contracts. This “multiplier effect” creates and supports jobs throughout the state.

6. Advance Environmental Sustainability

Local businesses are rooted in the communities they serve, so they tend to be more conscious about their own impacts on the environment much like the local economy. Additionally, shopping with local businesses that source their products locally can lead to a smaller footprint on the environment.

7. Diversify the Economy

Communities with a large amount of diverse local businesses will offer more competition than communities with only a few large national chains. This kind of competition will keep prices low and force businesses to think in the best interest of consumers.

8. Support Healthy Communities

A study published in the Cambridge Journal of Regions, Economy and Society found that people who live in communities where small, locally owned businesses are the norm are healthier than those who live in places where large corporations predominate.

9. Enjoy Premier Customer Service

When you shop with local businesses, you’re dealing with experienced staff and salespeople who are experts in their field who will help you find the right product or service that you need. Local businesses depend on customer loyalty and will do all that they can to retain you as a customer who will continue to frequent their business.

10. Create Prosperity for All

When local businesses are thriving, everyone wins. The economy is more diversified to prevent against economic downturns, there are more jobs to employ individuals across the state, and there is more opportunity for economic growth.

SUPPORTING SCOTTSDALE NORTH

SCOTTSDALE NORTH GIFT CARDS

If you’re looking for an easy way to do some good or want to know how you can help the community you love, send a Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card.

To purchase a Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card, visit connectingscottsdalenorth.com and click on “Buy a Gift Card.”

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.

It is our belief that Scottsdale North thrives on the foundation of a strong, competitive small business community. Follow #shopscottsdalenorth or check in at ConnectingScottsdaleNorth.com and on Facebook at Connecting Scottsdale North this month, as we will be posting many new video spotlights of local businesses. The spotlights are here to help you to meet the people and understand better how you can help them, and they can help you.

Hello Neighbor! Neighbors

Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. My whole family loves it; and we all laugh together whenever we watch it. Adam Sandler is one of my favorite actors. He is so talented and funny. I just love all his movies.

WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… a veterinarian because of my love of animals.

THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS… “Mr. Brightside” by the Killers.

THE ONE PERSON WHO MOTIVATES ME IS… my dad. He always gives me the best advice and is the hardest working person I know. And he always reminds me I can do anything I set my mind to. He is the best dad!

HELLO, MY NAME IS… Molly Schwanz. I’M A NATIVE OF SCOTTSDALE AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE… of all the wonderful things Scottsdale has to offer—amazing food, shopping, nature, culture, sports, concerts, etc. Scottsdale offers a variety of things to do in one spot.

A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… working out in the morning. I love going to The Workshop Pilates or Rumble Boxing. Then I head to school or work, run errands when I can, and come home and make myself dinner. On the weekends, I love spending time at the barn and going to dinner with friends.

MY FAMILY IS… the most important thing in my life. I could not imagine my life without them. They mean everything to me and who I look up to everyday.

ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS… is my horses. They have taught me so much about life and love. I would not be the person I am today without them.

MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY IS… “Just Go with It” with

THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… learning how to play pickleball with my family. I was not the best at it, but we sure had fun laughing at each other.

THE PERFECT DAY IS… going up to the barn in the morning to spend time with my horses, then grabbing lunch with my family. Then ending the day with dinner or a movie night with friends.

MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… Kindles for Kids. This charity is run through Phoenix Children’s Hospital and was started by my sister and I back in 2011. Every year we donate 40 Kindles to children going through cancer treatment at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

MY LIFE IS… a blessing each day.

THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS… my horse Chuck, who I was surprised with when I was 12 years old. Chuck and I had so much fun together and we went on to win several National Youth Championships together.

MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… riding horses on the beach somewhere tropical or traveling around Europe.

THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED… is from my dad—“Never ever quit!”

Legal

Charitable Giving with Your Estate Plan

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

If you wish to leave some of your estate to charitable institutions, then a gift from your retirement accounts can have tremendous advantages. There are many ways to benefit your favorite charity both now and at your death. If these charitable gifts are done properly, you can receive tax advantages now, and save your heirs taxes later.

1. MAKING

YOUR CHARITY THE

BENEFICIARY OF YOUR TRADITIONAL 401(K) OR IRA

Your contributions to your traditional 401(k) or IRA are pre-tax money. You, or an individual inheriting the IRA from you, will pay taxes when they withdraw the funds. If you have a beneficiary on your retirement accounts who is 10 years younger than you, they will have to withdraw all those funds within 10 years of your passing. If giving to charities is part of your plan, then making the charity the beneficiary may be the better plan, tax-wise. Naming a charity as a beneficiary means they will pay no taxes on the distribution of that traditional retirement account. Note: be careful when you have both individual beneficiaries and charities on the same IRA, as there can be unintended tax consequences when you do so. Consult with an attorney or CPA to avoid any issues.

2. THE DONOR-ADVISED FUND

Donor-advised funds offer a simple way

for you to benefit a variety of charities during your life and beyond. A donoradvised fund can be established with, for instance, a community foundation. In our state, the Arizona Community Foundation is one choice for a donor-advised fund. The donor can give cash or securities to the fund. He or she receives an income tax charitable deduction for the year of the donation. The donor designates the charities that they want to receive the benefit of their donation – or they can designate the types of charities rather than specific charities. A donor advised fund can be used for a gift from your estate after your death as well.

3. CHARITABLE REMAINDER TRUST

A charitable remainder trust allows the donor to give assets to an irrevocable trust that then provides income for one or more individual beneficiaries (even you and a spouse), and at the end of a specific period, or on the death of the beneficiaries, the remainder of the assets are given to charity. This type of trust can be another method to gift highly appreciated assets. The trust will permit the donor to claim an immediate charitable deduction for the value of the assets that will ultimately pass to the charity. The donation also avoids the capital gains taxes on any appreciated assets.

If you are interested in charitable planning for your estate, our office can help. Call the Law Office of Libby Banks (libbybanks. com) for an appointment to discuss the options at 602-375-6752.

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

Good Deeds Guide

Excitement and Activity Build Toward Arizona Gives Day on April 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Guide To Informed Giving in the Valley

Aid to Adoption of Special Kids (AASK)

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

Arizona Burn Foundation

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

Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children

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

Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels

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

BLOOM365

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

Camp Patrick

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

Cave Creek Unified School District (CCUSD)

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

Desert Voices

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

The Center for the Rights of Abused Children

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

thecenterforchildren.org

Hope & A Future

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

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

Hope Women’s Center

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

ICAN

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

Midwest Food Bank Arizona

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

midwestfoodbank.org/Arizona

OCJ Kids

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

Ridgeline Academy

Ridgeline Academy provides families with a community school culture

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

ridgelineacademy.org

Ronald McDonald House Charities

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

St. Joseph the Worker

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

STARS

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

Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation

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

MARCH HAPPENINGS

ARIZONA COCKTAIL WEEKEND

When: March 10 - 13

Where: Multiple locations

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

Info: arizonacocktailweekend.com

ARIZONA TACO & MARGARITA FESTIVAL

When: March 11

Where: State Farm Stadium, 9591 W. Sportsman’s Park, Glendale

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

Info: arizonatacofest.com

ARIZONA ALOHA FESTIVAL

When: March 11 & 12

Where: Tempe Beach Park, 54 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe

What: Experience the spirit of aloha and celebrate the cultures of the South Pacific islands at the Arizona Aloha Festival. Enjoy two days of free, live entertainment — including music and dance across several stages. Lectures and storytelling about Hawaii and Polynesia will take place at Hale Mana’o (the ‘House of Knowledge);

the Island Marketplace is filled with vendors offering traditional crafts, fresh flower leis, baskets, hats, carved bone necklaces, tapa cloth and more; island crafts for kids can be found at in Keiki Activities area; and ukulele lessons at Aunty Aloha’s Ukulele Corner are also available for all ages. Info: azalohafest.org

CHANDLER CHAMBER OSTRICH FESTIVAL

When: March 16 - 19

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

What: The Ostrich Festival features live ostriches, national and local entertainment, thrilling stage shows, over 50 exhilarating midway rides and

games, classic festival food, interactive activities for all ages, meet and greets with your favorite mascots, ostrichthemed educational activities, exciting attractions, upscale arts and crafts and much more. This year’s performers include Train and more.

Info: ostrichfestival.com

CAREFREE FINE ART & WINE FESTIVAL

When: March 17 - 19

Where: Downtown Carefree, Easy Street, Carefree

What: More than 165 juried artists from throughout the United States and abroad will participate displaying impressive small, medium, and lifesized bronze sculptures, sparkling

hand-blown glass vessels, rope baskets, wood, clay, and mixed media sculptures, one of a kind handcrafted jewelry, exceptional photography, and much more. The festival also accommodates the return of Arizona’s largest wine-tasting event, providing a unique opportunity to sample an extensive collection of domestic and imported wines.

Info: thunderbirdartists.com

DESTINATION ARIZONA CARIBFEST

When: March 19

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

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

Info: dacarnival.com

18TH ANNUAL ARIZONA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

When: March 25 & 26

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

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

Info: azdba.org/festival-2023

SHEA HOMES GOOD LIFE FESTIVAL

When: March 25 & 26

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

CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 34

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

Info: thegoodlifefest.com

ARIZONA BIKE WEEK

When: March 29 – April 2

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

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

Info: azbikeweek.com

ON DECK: APRIL

BUNNY BALLOON BLAST

When: April 7 & 8

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

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

Info: saltriverfields.com/ bunnyballoonblast/

SUDOKU ANSWER from page 35

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30 RESCUE GROUPS!

ALL PETS SPAYED, NEUTERED & IMMUNIZED FOOD TRUCK

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SUN. MARCH 19, 2023

10 AM - 2 PM

PET SUPPLIES PLUS 31319 N. SCOTTSDALE RD

Entertainment Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates

By Tony Beal

IN THEATERS

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

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

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

ON NETFLIX

“You People”

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

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

NEW RELEASES

“Magic Mike’s Last Dance”

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

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

“Infinity Pool”

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

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

“Knock

at the Cabin”

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

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

March 3

“Creed III”

March 10

“65”

“Scream VI”

“Champions”

“Luther: The Fallen Sun” (Netflix)

March 17

“Shazam! Fury of the Gods”

“Inside”

“The Magician’s Elephant” (Netflix)

March 24

“John Wick: Chapter 4”

March 31

“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves”

“A Good Person”

“A Thousand and One”

“Murder Mystery 2” (Netflix)

DOWN

1. Govt. property org.

2. Fabled fliers

3. Mine passage

4. India’s Chennai, pre-1996

5. Flooring choice, pl.

6. Hose woes

7. 100 centavos in Mexico

8. Rum cake

9. Particle in A-bomb

10. What’s-old-is-new-again prefix

12. Somewhat late

13. Be at the helm

14. *Not chutes

19. #39 Across, pl.

22. Is no longer

23. *Trade, build, settle this island

24. Oenophile’s concern

25. Curtain fabric

26. *Connect how many?

27. Theater passage

28. Asparagus unit

29. Written works

32. Hipbones

33. Butterfly catcher

36. *Like pursuit of no vital importance

38. “____ ____ a high note”

40. A Camel, for short

41. Result of equipment failure

44. The beauty of the ball?

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

48. Sign of bad news

49. Inflict a blow

50. Supernatural life force

51. Drunkard, slangily

52. Exhibiting good health 53. Swing seat, sometimes

Knitter’s supply 55. Tree fluid

58. Dropped drug, acr.

Getaway

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

By Laurie Marschall, Lakama Luxury Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

E: EXPEDITION CRUISING

Expedition cruises are where WOW happens, where curious explorers venture

A: ADVENTURE STYLE CRUISING

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

Lakama Luxury

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

Sponsored by Lakama Travel.

R: RIVER (AND CANAL) CRUISING

L: LUXURY AND YACHT STYLE CRUISING

Photo Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Photo Courtesy of David Merron/Quark Expeditions

Photo Courtesy of Star Clippers

Photo Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas