Scottsdale North News, November 2022

The Election is Practically a Referendum on Arizona’s Energy Future

By Erick O’Donnell

We don’t usually like to dwell in great detail in this column on partisan fights, given their obvious tendency to divide and upset folks. But some political contests are just so singularly momentous, so closely tied to the success of solar power in our state, that we would be remiss if we were to let them pass by without comment.

The election in November is one of those contests. The Sierra Club, one of the nation’s oldest organizations dedicated to resource preservation, was correct when it declared, in a recent headline on its website, that “[i]n Arizona, the future of renewable energy is on the ballot.” We would like to share our thoughts with you on why that is.

While they have a lower profile than the race for governor, the contests for two open seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission could lead to more immediate and direct consequences for the state’s energy transition. That’s because this independent body regulates the state’s power utilities, determining exactly how much these giant entities can charge households to install solar, how much to pay them for their surplus product, and how much energy they must eventually derive from solar and other renewable sources. Put simply, in the fight to make distributed solar power financially viable—and, hence, at all possible—the policies set by this body are decisive.

And while the commission should, ideally, do so impartially and with an exclusive focus on what’s best for ratepayers, that’s not how things have turned out in the past. The commission has impeded the growth of solar power in Arizona through policies clearly influenced by adverse interests, including APS, the state’s largest energy company.

But don’t take our word for it. In 2019, former commissioner Kris Mayes told the Phoenix New Times: “APS has spent the last eight years essentially undermining our democracy.” The company has done so by running smear campaigns against pro-solar commissioners, as revealed by documents the company itself released, and pouring millions of dollars into misleading

political campaigns to unseat those commissioners.

And these tactics have yielded tangible victories in the fight against progress. The commission has allowed the power companies to pay homeowners a lower rate for their surplus solar energy than what the companies charge for their dirty, fossil-fuel-derived energy. Earlier this year, the commission voted three-to-two to scrap a serious statewide standard for renewable-energy production.

Incumbent commissioner Sandra Kennedy (a target of one of the abovementioned smear campaigns) and newcomer Lauren Kuby grasp the importance of solar power. Kuby is a sustainability scientist at ASU with a view of the big picture, stressing the connections between fossil fuels and the drought currently bearing down on our state. Kennedy has proven her willingness to fight for sane energy policies in the face of fierce resistance from regressive special interests.

Success for solar energy in Arizona would mean thousands of new jobs, energy security, and progress in the fight to head off the worst consequences of carbon-fueled climate change. But it won’t just happen on its own. Good public policy makes a difference. In fact, a 2012 study by researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that relatively strong prosolar policies explain about 70% of the variation between states in installed solar capacity.

The upcoming election is practically a referendum on good energy policy. And the question is: do we Arizonans want to fully harness our most abundant natural resource, or do we want to continue letting fossil interests dictate how we power our homes and businesses?

Of course, these are just our own opinions. We know that how you mark your election ballot is between you and your own conscience, and we wouldn’t presume to interfere. But if you’re ready to cast your financial vote for solar power, then we’re happy to help out. So, call SunSolar Solutions today at 623-562-9009 to have a design prepared for your home, free of charge.

Scottsdale 411: The Latest Local News You Need to Know

AMERICAN LEGION POST 34 TO SERVE FREE STEAK DINNERS TO VETERANS

Photo Courtesy of American Legion Post 34

SCOTTSDALE VETERANS DAY COMMEMORATION

FEATURES ROSE MATTIE, COMBAT VETERAN AND BLACKHAWK PILOT

Scottsdale’s Veterans Day Commemoration will take place at 3 p.m. Fri., Nov. 11, at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Rd. It is free and open to the public.

This year’s keynote speaker, Rose Mattie, was deployed to Iraq from 2003 to 2005, then again from 2009 to 2010, with several roles in between. In 2011, the army selected Mattie to be part of an elite female program where she was deployed with the Green Berets to an Afghan village supporting the Navy SEALs.

attendees. Stickers encouraging others to ask veterans about their stories will be available.

The program also will feature the Scottsdale Police and Fire Honor Guards, bugler Gil Gifford and members of Scottsdale Mayor’s Youth Council. For more information about this event, call the park at 480-312-2312.

SCOTTSDALE SALUTES: NEW PROGRAM HONORS

LOCAL VETERANS

On Veterans Day, Fri., Nov. 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. American Legion Post 34 will offer free steak dinner meals to veterans at the post. Non-veteran guests can enjoy a dinner for $15.

According to American Legion Post 34 Commander Brian Fernandez, the meals are provided as a tribute for those who served in the name of freedom and liberty. Entertainment will be provided.

American Legion Post 34 is located at 6272 E. Cave Creek Road in Cave Creek. The American Legion, formed in 1919, supports and advocates on behalf of veterans, active military, and their families. The 501(c) (19) also supports the initiatives and programs of the American Legion while fostering patriotism and responsible citizenship. For more information, call 602400-3330.

After completing that assignment, she was accepted into pilot training. She received her wings in 2013 and flew helicopters for the Arizona National Guard until 2018. During that time, she earned a business degree and became the first recorded servicewoman to attend the military’s Aviation Life Support and Equipment course while seven months pregnant with her second child. Today, Mattie and her family live in Chandler, where she spends her days as a full-time mom.

Scottsdale’s annual Veterans Day commemoration is emceed by Mayor David D. Ortega and includes remarks from Joan Fudala, Air Force veteran and com munity historian.

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Arizona Band kicks off the program at 3 p.m. with a half-hour of patriotic music.

Scottsdale is proud to be a Vietnam Commemorative Partner. Vietnam veterans and family members are invited to not only attend this year’s event, but also use it as an opportunity to share their stories with

Banners featuring 30 local veterans/servicemembers will fly from street light poles in Old Town during two weeks in November. See the banners along Drinkwater Boulevard Nov. 3 to 21. This recognition program was initiated by the Scottsdale Veterans Advisory Commission, seven residents appointed by the city council to advise on veterans’ issues and to raise awareness of and honor veterans in the community.

MOST CITY OFFICES CLOSED FOR VETERANS DAY

Most city offices will be closed Veterans Day, Thurs., Nov. 11. However, garbage and recycling collection will not be affected. Residents may place containers in the typical spot by 5 a.m. the morning of collection or the night before.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY IN SCOTTSDALE

Scottsdale’s Adopt-A-Family Program serves low-income families in our community during the Thanksgiving and holiday season. With the help of sponsors and donors, this program brings holiday cheer to over 200 families annually. Income-eligible families are matched with sponsors who provide a meal for Thanksgiving and gifts for children during the December holidays. The Adopt-AFamily program relies entirely on donations, and they are now looking for sponsors and accepting donations. Get involved by either sponsoring a local family or donating. Learn more about the program at scottsdaleaz.gov/ news/adopt-a-family-in-scottsdale-this-holiday-season.

Adopt-A-Family

Pickle and Social Set to Open in Scottsdale

Photos Courtesy of Pickle and Social

PICKLE AND SOCIAL IS EXPANDING TO SCOTTSDALE INSIDE THE SYDNEY, A 22-ACRE MIXED-USED DEVELOPMENT OF RETAIL SHOPS, OFFICE SPACE, AND HOTELS PLANNED FOR THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF 90TH STREET AND LOOP 101, ACCORDING TO THE SITE DEVELOPERS.

Pickle and Social Scottsdale will feature four outdoor and eight indoor premier pickleball courts as well as a 7,500 square-foot full-service restaurant and bar with chef-inspired meals and curated beverages. There will also be dedicated private event spaces and a rooftop bar. An exciting signature offering for the new Pickle and Social brand will be a 2,500 square-foot Fairway Fieldhouse, where guests will enjoy access to four Full Swing simulators, a private bar, and an outdoor putting green. The Field House will also feature a 3,000 squarefoot green space with an ACL Cornhole Yard, yard games, and a 30-foot outdoor live music stage.

“We couldn’t be more excited to expand Pickle and Social to one of the most dynamic markets in America,” says Neal Freeman, founder and CEO of Competitive Social Ventures (CSV), the company behind the concept. “The location and its surrounding businesses are a homerun for us. This

venue will have a lot to offer whether you play pickleball or not. With indoor courts, indoor simulators, a full-service restaurant, and bar, guests can play yearround.”

“We had the opportunity to partner with multiple pickleball facilities, but we chose Pickle and Social because they hit it out of the park in every measure. They are truly a class above the rest. Pickle and Social will be joining dozens of other restaurants and entertainment venues such as The Rustic and Goodsurf at The Sydney,” says Dan Lupian, managing principal and founder for Palmer Development, the company developing The Sydney.

To learn more, visit pickleandsocial.com.

Celebrating our 21st Season!

December Phoenix Concerts

MAINLY BEETHOVEN

Sunday, December 4th, 3:00 pm

Prof. Inna Faliks, Piano, Head of Piano Dept, UCLA

Liba Schacht-Violin, Lyric Opera of Chicago John Sharp- Principal cello, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra

General Admission -$28, Students with ID - $15

Steele Indian School Park Memorial Hall, 300 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix, 85012

THE FOUR SEASONS BY VIVALDI & PIAZZOLLA

Sunday, December 11th, 3:00 p.m.

Shlomo Mintz, Solo violin

Premium seating - $45, General Admission -$35 Students with ID - $25 Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 N. 16th St Phoenix, 85016, Box Of�ice: 602-892-5921

More information and

www.redrocksmusicfestival.com

www.redrocksmusicfestival.com

Ticket

Ticket

Phone 602-402-4551

Phone 602-402-4551

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Holiday Festivities Abound at Scottsdale Quarter

Photos Courtesy of Scottsdale Quarter

Nov. 12 – Flying Squirrels Featuring three former members of Valley favorite the Azz Izz Band, The Flying Squirrels is an upbeat trio boasting vocals, steel drum, guitar, and drums/percussion, creating a unique blend of instrumentation that permeates each tune, regardless of style.

holiday event in the Valley,” says Richard Hunt, general manager at Scottsdale Quarter. “The Santa Social has become a tradition for families who flock to the center to officially kick off the season of giving with a day of fun, while taking advantage of the great shopping and dining options at Scottsdale Quarter.”

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THE SANTA SOCIAL Families will create lasting memories at The Santa Social, a highly-anticipated holiday kick-off event on Sat., Nov. 26, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. in The Quad. The popular event, now in its 10th year, features festive, family-friendly activities, including photos with the jolly man in red, live entertainment, a tree lighting ceremony, and a movie under the stars.

Attendees enjoy live holiday entertainment, interactive games, activities, and more. Back this year is the interactive Santa experience: in addition to Santa posing for pictures, there will be two selfie stations and log cabins selling fantastic holiday-inspired items.

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“We’re excited to celebrate the season with The Santa Social, our annual holiday kick-off event, which has gained the reputation as the most festive

The celebration will culminate with the ceremonial lighting of the center’s 35-foot Christmas tree at 6 p.m. This symbolic occasion will be followed by the showing of an all-time holiday favorite, “Home Alone.” Families are invited to lay out blankets, grab a snack from one of Scottsdale Quarter’s delicious eateries, and settle in for the movie at 6 p.m.

Scottsdale Quarter will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. so visitors can take advantage of great Black Friday extended weekend offers at the center’s retailers.

The Santa Social is free and open to the public; costs apply to Santa photos.

NEW TENANTS

Scottsdale Quarter continues to expand its elite lineup of retailers. New retailers include LoveShackFancy, Rowan, and Veronica Beard, with more to come.

Whether catching a movie at Landmark Theatres, holiday shopping, dining at the property’s one-of-a kind eateries, or enjoying an evening stroll under the gentle palms, Scottsdale Quarter is sure to foster warm, holiday spirit for the whole family.

Scottsdale Quarter is open seven days a week. For hours and more information, visit scottsdalequarter.com.

Father and Son Rock Black Mountain Guitar Co.

FATHER AND SON ED AND KYLE HEISLER OPENED BLACK MOUNTAIN GUITAR CO. IN THE SUMMER OF 2021 AND HAVE BEEN SOARING IN GUITAR SALES AND SERVICE EVER SINCE.

“My dad was a customer of the former owner Paul Truchetta, who passed away in 2021,” says Kyle. “We took over the location and added new brands and instruction lessons, repair services, and more as we grew.”

In the 1980s, Eddie (the father) taught guitar lessons for various music stores and expanded his love of guitars and music to both of his sons, who both began learning how to play and build guitars at a young age.

About 2014, Kyle worked at Guitar Center as a repair technician and attended Roverto-Venn to study the manufacturing of guitars and to learn how to reverse engineer guitars. The business sells and services electric, acoustic and bass guitars, ukuleles, amps, harmonicas, and more.

“We have been very successful and love working in the community,” says Kyle. To find your musical needs and speak to these local community leaders, visit blackmountainguitar.com or stop in at 6220 E. Cave Creek Road, Suite A, Cave Creek. The duo also can be reached at 480-488-5441 or info@blackmountainguitar.com.

Photo Courtesy of Rock Black Mountain Guitar Co.

(Left to right) Kyle and Ed Heisler

City

Hidden in the Hills Artist Studio Tour Features 174 Artists

Photos Courtesy of Hidden in the Hills

ARIZONA’S LARGEST AND LONGEST-RUNNING ARTIST STUDIO TOUR, HIDDEN IN THE HILLS, RETURNS TO THE VALLEY FOR A 26TH YEAR. The popular event takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday: Nov. 18 to 20 and Nov. 25 to 27. This year’s free, self-guided tour features 174 artists at 47 studios throughout Cave Creek, Carefree, and North Scottsdale.

Showcasing both nationally recognized and emerging artists, Hidden in the Hills attracts thousands of patrons who appreciate fine art and seek a variety of mediums, styles, and price ranges. With the event taking place the weekends before and after Thanksgiving, the art tour also attracts holiday shoppers who want to find an original, unique gift.

Ceramic artist Myron Whitaker’s stunning vessel, “Large Ferric with Agate” graces the cover of this year’s popular four-color, glossy artist directory. The

contemporary, raku-fired piece features rich textures and earthy colors. The inspiration for the piece––a striking Brazilian agate––sits atop the vessel’s handle.

FROM 18-WHEELERS TO CONTEMPORARY CERAMICS

Myron Whitaker likes to joke that he is “as country as country gets,” something that no one could guess by viewing his large body of contemporary ceramic works. Growing up in Kannapolis, North Carolina, he never imagined pursuing a career as an artist. In fact, he spent more than 16 years manufacturing 18-wheelers. One day, he ran into his high school art teacher who encouraged him to take a ceramics class she was teaching at a local community college. The class fueled his passion to learn more, and within a few years, he left his job to work full-time as a ceramic artist.

“When I first started doing ceramics, it was pure fun. And then I fell in love with it,” Whitaker says. “I’m really

living my dream. When I sit down on the wheel to throw clay, I know that’s where I’m supposed to be.”

Today, some 14 years later, Whitaker is best known for his large scale, raku fired vessels.

“Raku is one of the most exciting and rewarding parts of the ceramic process. The anticipation of instantaneously seeing red hot clay pieces evolve into the final glazed and black smoke artwork is the most gratifying part of the journey,” he says.

Ferric refers to the firing process. “It’s an acid that I pour over the vessel before firing it,” he said. “In this case, I used more than 40 pounds of clay to create the vessel, and I decided to use ferric instead of a glaze in order to bring out the earthy colors and give it a primitive look.”

Whitaker will exhibit his work at mixed media artist Carlos Page’s Studio No. 32 in Cave Creek. For maps and details, visit hiddeninthehills.org.

Feel the “Spirit of the Season” at Upscale Singers Concerts

WATCHING SINGERS ENJOY PERFORMING IS FUN FOR THE AUDIENCE, TOO. That’s the mindset behind every Upscale Singers concert.

For the third year, Scottsdale’s premier adult choir will conduct its Christmas shows in a relaxed holiday party setting at Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Dr.

The idea of “Spirit of the Season” is for audience members to feel as if they are attending an intimate gathering of friends who love to sing. This year the audience has a choice of two different times to feel that joy: Sat., Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 11 at 5 p.m. Tickets ($20 for adults, $10 for youths ages 18 and un der) are available at upscalesingers.com or at the door.

“I am really excited about this year’s concert. The music’s great, and the choir sounds wonderful!” Director Margaret Watson says. “All the singers have been talking about how much they love the music selections, and I love them, too.”

The selections range from holiday classics including “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “Angels’ Carol,” and Handel’s chorus “For Unto Us a Child Is Born” from the Messiah to current-day favorites––“Breath of Heaven,” “Mary Did You Know?” and “Glow”. There also will be opportunities for the audience to sing along.

“The music is gorgeous and really touches the heart. I know I feel that way at every rehearsal,” says Watson.

Upscale Singers concerts combine experience with expertise. The singers perform without holding music books – they memorize the selections and interact with the audience. That’s why the concerts are so lively.

“I feel so honored to be directing this group,” Watson says. “They are so talented and give everything they have to the performances. They share their love of music with the audience, and that is a very special gift. Many of us have been singing together for almost 20 years, and there is really a bond that has developed.”

Upscale Singers was formed in 2005 to provide great entertainment for the community and benefit young vocalists. The 30-member group is a nonprofit organization, and every concert also includes the Upscale Kids.

Upscale Singers’ biggest youth program is the Cheryl Siebs Memorial Vocal Scholarships. The first-place finishers in the senior and junior divisions sing at the concerts, and the prize money for each one goes to the vocal music teacher of the winner’s choice.

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R e n a i s s a n c e m u s i c o f t h e s e a s o n , p e r f o r m e d i n f u l l E l i z a b e t h a n c o s t u m e .

Photo Courtesy of Upscale Singers

Canal Convergence: Celebrating 10 Years of Water + Art + Light

Photos Courtesy of Scottsdale Public

performances, creative workshops, educational tours, augmented reality experiences, food, and drink, and more.

Large-scale public artworks created by artists from around the world and locally will illuminate the Scottsdale Waterfront each evening along the Scottsdale Waterfront, in and above the Arizona Canal and along the pedestrian pathways, and bridges, between Scottsdale Road and Goldwater Boulevard.

Every year, Canal Convergence selects a featured theme to be highlighted alongside the perennial focus on Water + Art + Light, interactivity, and sustainability. This year’s featured theme is “Celebrating 10 Years of Water + Art + Light.”

This year’s event is a celebration of the 10th anniversary of Canal Convergence and will include live music, dance

Since Canal Convergence officially began in 2012, it has embodied an ever-evolving conversation about sitespecific public art, light art, community engagement, and more, all within the context of an outdoor, nighttimefocused event. For Canal Convergence 2022, each artist was directed to present an artwork that celebrates Water + Art + Light, interactivity, and sustainability, but also draws from any of the past featured themes like “Reconnect,” “The Story of Water,” and “Art and Technology.”

In addition to commemorating the anniversary through the artwork themes, this year’s event also looks to celebrate the vibrant global artist community that has made Canal Convergence so memorable over the years. Scottsdale Public Art selected artists who have exhibited work at Canal Convergence throughout the 10-year span alongside artists who are new to the event. With this col

lection of past and present artists, the event highlights not only the evolution as an event but also the artists’ growth.

With these aspects in mind, the return of some favorite artists from the past, including B!G ART (three separate artworks!), Hector Esrawe and Ignacio Cadena, HYBYCOZO, Immerge Interactive, Walter Productions, and Jeff Zischke. Joining them are these new artists: Alex P., Angela Fraleigh, Josh Miller, Pneuhaus, and Bike Powered Events.

In addition to the physical artworks selected this year, Canal Convergence will also commission three original augmented reality artworks from Arizona artists, as well as AR experiences that correspond to the physical artworks via the Hoverlay App. Make sure to download the Hoverlay app so you can participate in the captivating AR artwork and experiences.

For more information, visit canalconvergence.com/canalconvergence-2022.

City News

Cave Creek Museum and Kiwanis Family Fun Day offers Thanksgiving on the Dude Ranch

Photo Courtesy of the Cave Creek Museum

KIWANIS FAMILY FUN DAY AND THE CAVE CREEK MUSEUM HOST “THANKSGIVING ON THE DUDE RANCH” ON SUN., NOV. 13 FROM 2 P.M. TO 4 P.M.

“What happened when families spent Thanksgiving at an Arizona dude ranch?” asks Evelyn Johnson, the museum’s executive director. “Probably a lot of eating, playing of games and learning cool tricks from the cowboys. You can try to do all of these things when you come

visit the museum and act like a ‘dude.’ Learn the art of horseshoes and the correct way to hang them for good luck.”

Guests should register prior at cavecreek museum.org. The event is free thanks to the support of Kiwanis Club of Carefree.

The 52-year-old museum’s mission is to preserve the artifacts of the prehistory, his tory, culture, and legacy of the Cave Creek Mining District and the Cave Creek/ Carefree foothills area through education, research, and interpretive exhibits. The Cave Creek Museum is located at 6140 E. Skyline Dr., Cave Creek.

City News

THE FOOTHILLS FOOD BANK & RESOURCE CENTER SEEKS DONORS TO ADOPT-A-FAMILY AND BRIGHTEN THE HOLIDAYS FOR CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND SENIORS IN THE NORTH PHOENIX FOOTHILLS COMMUNITIES AS PART OF THE FOOD BANK’S 20TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY GIFT PROGRAM.

Last year we served over 1185 people in our community through the Adopt-AFamily program.

Food Bank & Resource Center

Donors

“We are all aware of the rising food and gas prices, but our neighbors are especially feeling the financial strain,” says Foothills Food Bank Executive Director Leigh Zydonik. “The food bank has experienced a 51% increase in visits over the same period in 2021.”

The Foothills Food Bank is accepting donations of Walmart or Visa $50 gift cards to help families through these challenging times. And along with your generous donation of gift cards they ask donors to consider donating new board games, adult brainteaser books,

and new throws or small lap blankets to keep seniors warm this winter.

Donors can register to adopt a family through Nov. 30 at foothillsfoodbank. com.

All gift cards and gifts must be dropped off at the Holland Center between Sun., Dec. 4 through Thurs., Dec. 8. The Holland Community Center is located at 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. An email reminder to all registered donors with the drop off hours will be sent.

The food bank will host holiday events for all adopted families where your gifts will be given out in both Black Canyon City and north Scottsdale/Cave Creek locations in early December.

Founded in 1988, the Foothills Foodbank & Resource Center provides food for neighbors experiencing food insecurity as well as resources for other support services.

The Cave Creek food bank is located at 6038 E. Hidden Valley Dr., Cave Creek and can be reached at 480-488-1145.

Photo Courtesy of Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center

Dining Hello..Indian Kitchen Opens in North Scottsdale

sauce; vegetable pakora, onion, spinach, potato, and chili; and royala vepudu, shallow fried shrimp mixed with special Indian spices. Entrees include: a variety of masala dishes; navratna korma, garden fresh vegetables and nuts cooked in a rich cashew sauce, served with rice; and lamb vindaloo, lamb chops marinated in yogurt and flavorful Indian masalas, served with rice. They also serve an impressive assortment of biryani and traditional Indian desserts like gulab jamum and rasmala, sweetened paneer balls soaked in thickened milk and scented with cardamom and saffron.

Hello..Indian Kitchen is located at 14884 N. Pima Rd., Suite 110 and is open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. To learn more, visit helloindiaaz.com.

Dining YC’s Mongolian Grill Opens New Scottsdale Location

Owned

Asian-Inspired

Photos Courtesy of YC’s Mongolian

Local build-your-own stir-fry concept YC’s Mongolian Grill opened a new Valley location in Scottsdale last month. Located at 14850 N. 87th St., near Raintree Drive and Loop 101, the new location marks the third for the locally owned and operated fastcasual restaurant.

YC’s Mongolian Grill Scottsdale features the restaurant’s signature small, large, and unlimited bowls with flavorful, world-inspired sauces including Calcutta curry, spicy Thai, curry-uaki and spicy black pepper. Guests are encouraged to pack their bowls full of fresh veggies, rice, noodles, and sauces to customize their bowl experience. Each bowl is then stirfried to perfection by a YC’s chef on the restaurant’s signature flat-top grill.

In 2020, the build-your-own concept’s original Scottsdale location, along with the Tempe and Chandler stores, faced hardships in the face of COVID and shut

down in October. As the economy and concept recovered from COVID, YC’s loyalists asked owner Geoff Stanisic when he would open his next location. As conditions for the YC’s build-yourown format became more manageable, the new Scottsdale location was born.

Stir Fry

Fun

Stanisic looks forward to seeing the success and excitement that this new location will bring.

“After a tough few years of working through adversity during the pandemic and beyond, we are ready to open the doors to an all-new YC’s experience and reconnect with our Scottsdale customers,” Stanisic says. “We take pride in the food we serve and love being able to provide our customers with the best ingredients and a bowl full of authentic flavor.”

YC’s Mongolian Grill has been a locally owned and operated Valley staple for more than 30 years, opening its first location in Tempe in 1991. In that time, YC’s has become a cult favorite of longtime Valley residents and an unexpected delight for visitors.

YC’s Mongolian Grill Scottsdale’s store hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit ycs-mongoliangrill.com.

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Charity

Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council Receives Multi-Million

Donation from MacKenzie Scott

Gift will help significantly advance the organization’s mission to provide life-changing experiences, mentorship, and programming

GirlScouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC) announced a $2.8 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This local gift is part of an $84.5 million donation awarded to Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) and 29 local councils selected by Scott, making this unprecedented investment the largest donation from a single individual in the national organization’s history. Locally, this gift will expand access to Girl Scout programming across central and northern Arizona, including the Navajo Nation. Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona received a separate gift to support its local jurisdiction.

“We are extremely grateful to MacKenzie Scott for her generous investment in

girls. Her gift intentionally acknowledges the needs of girls and women whose causes are traditionally underrepresented due to disparities in giving,” says Mary Mitchell, co-CEO of GSACPC. “With the challenges facing girls today, investing in their futures is critical. Her support will expand our local programming to help girls in our community reach their maximum potential.”

“It is an honor to be stewards of this incredible gift as it solidifies how strongly our community recognizes Girl Scouts as the premiere organization serving girls,” says Christina Spicer, co-CEO of GSACPC. “Every day, we help girls discover their untapped potential and watch them become the leaders our community needs, so when philanthropists like MacKenzie Scott invest in a girl-led future, it changes the world.”

THE GRANT IMPACT

This gift to Girl Scouts-Arizona CactusPine Council will empower leadership opportunities for girls through the advancement of the organization’s mission, expand its impact and advance the organization’s recovery from the effects of COVID-19. The support allows GSACPC to:

Expand access to Girl Scout programming across central and northern Arizona that reflect a girl’s cultural needs and lived experiences. This includes innovation around older girls, a Mobile Building Space to travel across the jurisdiction, and an investment in current delivery models that will help attract and retain girls.

Create more equitable membership opportunities in communities that have been under-engaged. This includes Diversity Equity Inclusion and Racial Justice initiatives, reimagining the troop experience model to break down accessibility barriers and partnering with families and communities to holistically support the wellbeing and development of all girls.

Sustain membership retention and growth by investing in volunteer systems, new models for member support staff, and enhancing council-led support around the cookie program.

Photos Courtesy of Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council

Creek Unified Education Foundation Awards Grants

internationallLearning, music and the arts, and health and

“This year is going to be the best Grant the District event yet,” says Cave Creek Unified Education Foundation President Heidi Brashear. “We are tripling the normal grants awarded from previous years. I can’t wait to see the recipients’ faces when we hand them a big check! By delivering $69,000 in grants, our hardworking teachers will have the ability to purchase much needed supplies that will further enhance their classrooms as well as their student’s education!”

(CCUSD). The foundation is led by a partnership of parents and community members. Donors make possible the foundation’s mission to support programs for learning. To learn more, visit ccuef.org.

the Cave Creek Unified Education Foundation launched as a 501(c)3 with the mission

support programs for learning in all CCUSD schools and to establish a partnership between the educational community and local businesses. The foundation has awarded more than $225,000 in grants over the last 10 years. The grants are applied to purchasing materials that fall into one of the four pillars that CCUEF supports including resources,

CCUSD Superintendent, Dr. Cort Monroe says, “With CCUEF’s key annual events including Run the District, Rock the District, and now Golf the District, they have been able to raise significant funds for the Grant the District Program which assists our classrooms. Partnering with such a strong community organization is one of the ways that we are able to maintain our A+ school ratings and Number One School District ranking in the Northeast Valley. One team!”

The Cave Creek Unified Education Foundation is a registered Arizona non-profit foundation that supports the mission of the Cave Creek Unified School District

Photo Courtesy of Cave Creek Unified School District

Dr. Cort Monroe and Mrs. Kristine Paul from the 21-22 school year Grant the District.

Sari on SCIENCE

BACKYARD BUGS!

As the sun starts to set earlier this fall, here’s an activity to do on a cool evening with the whole family.

Have you ever wondered why bugs follow the light? Or are you curious about just how many different bugs live right in your backyard? Many insects navigate using natural light sources, such as the sun or the moon. Bug out in your own backyard and witness just how much biodiversity you have right at home! In this activity, you will use a sheet that simulates the moon to guide bugs right where you want them so that you can see them all up close and personal!

Here’s What You Need:

• 1 large white bed sheet or piece of butcher paper

• 2 flashlights

• 1 roll of duct tape

• Optional: 1 magnifying glass

Directions:

• Find a large, open spot on a wall or tree.

• Tape the sheet or butcher paper to a wall or tree so that it is hanging down vertically.

• Set up flashlights so that they are pointing towards the sheet of paper.

• Turn on flashlights and leave them on for a couple of hours. This step is best done right before or when the sun goes down.

• Come back and look at the different bugs on your sheet of paper using the magnifying glass or just your eyes.

Ask Yourself: How many bugs did you find? How many different types of bugs did you find? How many bugs did you see after 30 minutes? How many after 60 minutes? Were the bugs you found large or big? What if you did this project

at another time, perhaps early in the morning versus in the evening? Would there be different bugs? Do you think the time of year makes a difference? Would there be different bugs in a different season? Do you notice a difference if you change the location in the backyard? How do you think the location that you picked impacted the variety and number of bugs that you found? How might you change this experiment in the future to answer some of these questions?

Sari Custer is a lifelong science junkie, Chief Curiosity Officer at Arizona Science Center, and mom to daughter Carson (7). Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @ SariOnScience.

Neighbors

Hello

HI, MY NAME IS…Julie Krouse.

I’VE LIVED IN SCOTTSDALE FOR TWO AND A HALF YEARS AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE…of the amazing people I’ve met since moving here.

A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES…going to the barn to spend time with my horse, work, and dinner with friends.

MY FAMILY IS…everything to me (well, most of my family)!

ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS…my close family members, my horse named Mikey (it’s Michael, when we disagree), my friends, and wine.

MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY IS… “Remember the Titans.” It never ceases to inspire me.

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

THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS…oh geez, good question. I don’t think you want to find out.

THE ONE PERSON WHO MOTIVATES ME IS… I’d say inspires me and I’m not sure I can pick just one. My daughter, I am a better person for having known her and she is truly an amazing human being. Simply being with her motivates me to be the best version of myself. My trainer, he believes in me and pushes me to achieve my goals. Because of him, I believe the growth he sees for

Mikey and me is possible. My friends, for so many reasons. Martin Luther King, Eleanor Roosevelt, Harriet Tubman...anyone who has dared to stand for what they believe in, or make the world a better place, despite the odds.

THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS…an episode of “Friends.”

THE PERFECT DAY IS…anything outdoors that involves friends, my close family, and/or my horse.

MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS…the Arizona Humane Society. This organization is incredible.

MY LIFE IS…pretty darn good. I have been blessed with a really wonderful network and start every day with my horse before work.

THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS…my daughter.

MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… anything tropical.

THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED…oh boy, I’ve had so many people invest in my growth over the years it’s hard to say. At this moment, the piece of advice that comes to mind is, “Don’t worry about what others think of you, you will never be able to make everyone happy and if you try, you will lose yourself in the process.”

Story

Keep Local Dollars Local

Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card Encourages Residents to Shop Locally

By Sondra Barr

Over 30 years ago, prominent Realtor Scott Gaertner discovered his passion, helping folks to discover the best part of the Valley––Scottsdale North. Since that discovery, he has worked directly for developers selling some of the area’s best lifestyle communities: Desert Mountain, Terravita, and Winfield. But the bulk of Gaertner’s time has been spent working as a broker who helps people find their slice of Scottsdale North happiness by pairing them with the perfect home to live out the lifestyle they envision.

Over many years spent selling homes in this area, Gaertner’s recognized that many of the people moving to the area, as well as longtime residents, aren’t aware of the wonderful small local businesses providing essential and specialty services. “Up here, most businesses are hidden and it’s hard to see the shopping centers just from driving down the road. You can drive Scottsdale Road and you won’t even know you passed by three shopping centers if you don’t know the area,” says Gaertner. “What’s worse is that many of these businesses, they don’t have the marketing budget to get their names out there.”

“It’s been especially hard during the pandemic. Many people have been moving to the area but they’re not getting out as much to explore their new surroundings,” explains Gaertner. Chatting with business owners of the local spots he’s been frequenting for years, Gaertner’s also heard firsthand how many of them are struggling from the lingering effects of the pandemic, including the loss of foot traffic and the migration of customers to online shopping options.

Always an innovator, Gaertner decided to do something about the situation. Along with his listing manager, fellow

Realtor Kate Duffy, they found a fun and easy way to keep local spending local––the Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card.

THE CONNECTING SCOTTSDALE NORTH GIFT CARD

Powered by Yiftee!, a point-of-sale company that works with thousands of organizations around the country to promote the shop local movement, the Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card is an eGift card that can be used wherever you might use a gift card, but instead of national brands, it works in participating local shops and restaurants in our community.

Simple to purchase and use, the Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card can be used at any of the participating shops in the neighborhood. You can write a personal message and send the card to family, friends, and colleagues via email, text, or physical copy. Recipients can spend it at any of the participating merchants in Scottsdale North. The Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card can live on your phone, or you can print it out, making it the perfect gift or stocking stuffer.

The Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card can be purchased online for any amount, with a one-time, nominal $2.99 transaction fee. To boost visibility of the program, Gaertner is paying the one-time fee for the first 100 cards purchased.

“Now, you can give back to your community, while you enjoy the holidays,” says Gaertner, who hopes that residents will increasingly use the card to keep local dollars local. “The digital gift card can also be sent as anniversary, graduation, and birthday gifts to family, friends, and clients through a simple text or email. Realtors can also use them as closing gifts, to get them acquainted with all the local businesses.”

“They also make great teacher gifts. Businesses can even send them in bulk as employee rewards,” adds Duffy, who’s been working with local business owners to get them signed up with the program.

“There is no cost to businesses participating in the program,” says Duffy. “The only cost incurred is the standard Mastercard credit card fee they normally pay.”

Once signed up for the program, businesses can add specials for customers using the card like buy one, get one free or discounted pricing on items. “Businesses can also add a button on their website for customers to buy the gift card from there,” adds Duffy.

“It’s a digital gift card, you can easily pull it up on your phone. It’ll send reminders if you haven’t used the gift card. The best part: you don’t have to download an app to use it,” she says.

Among the growing list of Scottsdale North businesses to accept the Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card:

• The Meat Market, a local butcher that offers Arizona pasture raised beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and eggs.

• Uncle Louie, a New York style Italian restaurant.

• Summit Diner, which serves up healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

• Health Cellutions, an advanced fitness and recovery studio with a focus on pain management.

• Cherry on Top, a family-owned yogurt shop that sells custom blended sweet treats.

• Why Hello! Modern Home, a luxury home accessories and décor store.

• Ginny’s Kitchen, a restaurant serving up comfort food.

• MVP Medical Care, a local network of medical professionals.

WHY SHOP LOCAL

“Participating in this program means supporting the heart of what makes our community unique,” says Gaertner. “The purchase of the Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card creates a pool of cash that local businesses in Scottsdale North can rely on. Studies have shown that local independent retailers recirculate 47% of their revenue back into the community, while only 14% of national chains’ revenue stays in the community. More dramatically, restaurants recirculate 73% of their revenue back into the community, versus only 30% for national chains.”

“By supporting local businesses, more money continues circulating through the local community—this is achieved through a combination of profits paid to local business owners, wages paid to local workers, goods and services procured locally for internal use or resale, and charitable giving within the community. If you’re looking for a way to do some good or want to know how you can help the community you love, send a Connecting Scottsdale North Gift Card,” says Duffy.

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

This content is sponsored by Scott Gaertner Group Real Estate.

Real Estate

Excellent News Your Scottsdale North Property Taxes Dropped!

By Scott Gaertner, Associate Broker

Those of you who paid your 2021 property taxes this year should have noticed a decrease when you paid your first half this past month. Even though it was only an 8% cut, I don’t think many counties in the coun try are seeing their taxes move in a downward direction.

It looks like the Maricopa County supervisors have decided to give us a break. It does make some sense since inflation is at its highest level in 40 years and Arizona’s economy is literally the hardest hit in the country. And they aren’t just robbing Peter to pay Paul in this case. As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the federal government gave $435 million to the state to help pay for it.

However, the reduction only affects the county’s share of the total property tax. This does not include local taxes, school levies, or bonds that have been authorized and assessed by a local government. And I thought you might find it interesting to know that even these added expenses in Scottsdale North are much more affordable than many other areas.

SCOTTSDALE NORTH, A BETTER VALUE

To give you a feel for how much these extra premiums can add up to, let’s look at a home that recently sold in Scottsdale North and compare it to a home in Phoenix with a similar value. I chose the example homes because they are quite similar. Both properties are in a lifestyle community, both escrows were closed in the second week of July, and both properties’ county valuations were within $50 of one another. I didn’t do a big study on this, but my examples are representative of each area. This exercise will likely create more questions for you than it will answer, but I think it will be enlightening.

The chart above shows that the Scottsdale home sold for $180,000 more than the Phoenix home, but its valuation was only $30,000 more. That seems a bit odd. But the interesting part is that despite both values being significantly higher in Scottsdale, the taxes are almost half as much!

Just one more piece of evidence that Scottsdale is a bit more expensive but a better value. You always get what you pay for.

The difference in taxes is shocking, and the difference between what the assessor says the property is worth and what it is actually worth probably makes you at least curious. I might write about that one day, but for now, here are some ideas. In many states, the assessed value is the same as the purchase price of the home. Every time the house sells, the value is changed, and each year after that, it goes up by a certain percentage. This makes a lot of sense because that is a good way to figure out how much something is worth on the market, but can you imagine if Arizona did that? Holy Moly! I’ve been in real estate for a long time, and I’ve been waiting for politicians to try to get all this extra value, but they haven’t done it yet. And since taxes were just cut, it doesn’t look like it will happen any time soon.

There are still some things I don’t understand, and I am working on learning more about them. In my example, the value of the two homes I used to illustrate this point rose by roughly $30,000 between 2020 and 2021. While property taxes in Phoenix fell by $21, those in Scottsdale fell by $377. How fair is that? Could be that’s something we’ll revisit as well.

It seems strange that two houses in the same county, only 11 miles apart, can be taxed so differently. But the most important thing to remember is that you live in a place with low taxes. If this article goes viral, everyone who is considering moving here will know that your taxes have gone down. I don’t think that happens in the states from which people move here. So, send this to all your out-ofstate friends who are thinking about moving. This will help it spread. Tell them that Scottsdale is getting better and that they should come check it out. When they agree with you, tell them you know a great real estate agent who can show them what’s so great about Scottsdale North.

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.

THE MORAL OF THE STORY

Annual Christmas Home Bazaar Returns

Lady of Joy Catholic Church will hold its 15th annual Christmas Bazaar on Fri., Dec. 2 and Sat., Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The church is located at 36811 N. Pima Rd., Carefree.

More than 70 vendors will be onsite at the community event offering jewelry, photography, pottery, toys, candles, women’s and children’s apparel, yard art, holiday decor, wind chimes, fused glass, Apache crafts, paintings, imported Italian food, woodworking, cutting boards, and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring

non-perishable food items or to make a monetary contribution in support of the Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center.

In addition, guests can visit the popular Sweets & Treats bakery for delicious baked goods, the Joyful Grounds Café for holiday breakfast delights, and the K of C Savory Grille for lunch options. The Wine Bar Bistro will be also available to guests both days from noon to 4 p.m. Admission is free and there is plenty of parking.

For more information, visit oloj. org. For vendor information, email olojchristmasbazaar@gmail.com.

Photo Courtesy of Fran Booth

Home Four Things to Consider When Renting Out Your Home Short-Term

By Levi Claridge, Member, The Cavanagh Law Firm

Online home-sharing, such as Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway, has become increasingly popular for both hosts and guests.

According to a recent study by Roofstock, a real estate investment marketplace, about 10.6 million people in the United States earn money from more than 17 million rental properties. And according to Statista, there will be 64.7 million home-sharing users in 2022 and more than 68 million in 2023.

While it can be very appealing for the property owner to secure extra income, especially during Super Bowl LVII being held in Phoenix in February, there are risks associated with renting out your home to strangers. Knowing these risks and liabilities before jumping in can save you a lot of headaches and future expenses.

BELOW IS A LIST OF FOUR THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE RENTING OUT YOUR HOME:

Follow City, County, and State Regulations. When considering home sharing, it’s important to understand your city, county, and state laws. For example, in Phoenix, renters are required to be registered with the city of Phoenix, and all residential rental units––including vacation and shortterm rentals––must be registered with Maricopa County. It’s also important to consider your contracts with leases, condo boards, mortgage lenders, HOAs, etc. There may be limitations you need to be aware of.

Be Aware of Tax Implications. As a renter, you’ll have to pay taxes on your earnings, but you can also deduct some expenses related to your rental. It’s also important to understand the various taxes applicable when renting your home. Phoenix assesses a sales tax on property rentals and a transient lodging tax for

guest stays less than 30 days. Consulting a tax expert is always a good idea.

Check Your Insurance. Before renting out your house, you must ensure you have appropriate insurance coverage. Most homeowners assume they have protection under their homeowners’ policy, but this may not be the case. Websites like Airbnb offer some property protection for hosts against property damage by a guest but do not include liability insurance. You may need to invest in an umbrella insurance policy that will cover loss due to injury, loss of belongings, or damage to your home. If you rent your home with Airbnb, HomeAway, VRBO, or the like, you will need Landlord Protection Insurance or Vacation Rental Insurance.

Know What You are Getting Into. Renting your home short-term can be a big responsibility. In addition to the abovementioned risks, a renter should also con sider additional expenses that will incur, such as stocking the home with all the

necessities like towels, kitchen essentials, toilet paper, etc. It’s also likely you will see higher-than-normal utility bills. Addition ally, Airbnb, for example, charges hosts 3% per reservation. And, of course, don’t have anything in the home that you’d be heartbroken of if it was damaged.

If you’re thinking of renting your home out as a side hustle, don’t forget to do your research. There’s much more to it than just deciding and listing it on websites like Airbnb. Consult with an attorney on the legal implications and do your homework when it comes to the demand in your area, pricing, laws, taxes, and insurance. Happy renting!

curated

What to Look for in a Probiotic

By Justin Marsh, CEO of Arthur Andrew Medical

have been gaining popular ity in recent years, but the benefits of these live microorganisms have been around for centuries. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Ser vices and the National Institutes of Health, nearly 70 million people in the U.S. suffer from digestive diseases—making the need to understand how probiotics can improve gut health more important than ever.

Probiotics

Probiotics are friendly bacteria that reside in the digestive tract and stimulate the increased production of white blood cells and beneficial proteins, helping to maintain the proper balance of healthy intestinal bacteria. Research from The Journal of Environmental Science and Health states that probiotic supplementation promotes healthy digestive function by binding to toxins in the intestines and decreasing their accessibility to the body.

A probiotic with powerful antioxidant and immune-stimulating properties should be taken regularly to boost the body’s immune defenses. However, choosing the right one will help maintain optimal gut health.

Below are four things you should consider before purchasing a probiotic.

THE PROBIOTIC STRAIN

The individual bacteria strain determines the health benefits you can expect from a probiotic. Standard off-the-shelf probiot ics are freeze-dried bacteria often killed in stomach acid during digestion, leaving you without many benefits. However, probiot ics that use a spore formula are much more resilient to destruction during digestion. Spore probiotics are encased in protec tive spores that later sprout and germinate inside the body, giving long-lasting benefits.

For example, if you see the strain B. anima lis on the label, this strain helps in aiding digestion and fighting food-borne bacte ria, while strain B. breve helps your body absorb nutrients by fermenting sugars. Researching the specific health benefits of probiotic strains is important when choos ing what probiotic is best for you.

THE INGREDIENTS

Most people focus on the active ingredients of supplements and often overlook

the “other ingredients,” such as sugar, artificial flavors, colors, and other hardto-pronounce ingredients. Knowing how the active ingredients will influence health is imperative, but it’s also important to understand how the supplement’s other substances may affect you.

Look for supplements that contain natural additives, flavors (e.g., cane sugar), and colors (e.g., beet juice). Avoid supplements containing sucrose, maltodextrin, gelatin, silicon dioxide, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, and artificial colors/flavorings.

STORAGE RECOMMENDATIONS

When stored properly, you’ll get the maximum health benefits from a probiotic. Some probiotics can only survive a few years on the shelf and must be refrigerated to prevent spoiling. But probiotics formu lated with high-quality spore form and live bacteria strains can survive indefinitely. We recommend using a spore-based probi otic that does not require refrigeration and will last longer, but whichever product you choose, be sure you are following the label instructions provided.

REPUTATION AND CREDIBILITY OF THE BRAND

Purchase probiotics from a reputable brand with products backed by science, statistics, and industry standards. Before choosing a product, find out what clinical studies helped determine the ingredients for the formula–supplements should have statistics that clearly support the health benefit claims.

You should also verify that the supplement company has certifications for Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). The FDA establishes strict requirements to certify safe, accurately labeled products. Choosing a brand of supplements that provides scientific research to verify the safety and efficacy of their products is very important.

Daily probiotics will benefit your overall health by supporting digestion and the immune system. Educating yourself on the types of probiotics available and which is best for your health is key. We recommend purchasing products from a reputable healthcare professional or vendor who stands by their products and uses highquality ingredients that are well-researched and have a proven safety record.

Food Sensitivities: A Naturopathic Approach

By Dr. Jenna Dye, Naturopathic Physician

Food

of the most common causes of inflammation in the body.

inflammation can lead to chron ic illnesses. In naturopathic medicine, we focus on diet in detail to find potential foods that may be impacting your health.

those foods are identified we can eliminate them and begin to nourish the body with foods that decrease inflamma tion, while healing the digestive tract.

There are two main types of immune reactions to foods. An IgE reaction is an immediate reaction that can occur within minutes of consuming a particular food.

reaction is often severe and easier to pinpoint which food was the culprit. A common example is a Peanut IgE reac tion. After consumption there can be symptoms of hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Consuming these foods can be dangerous and must be avoided.

The other type of immune reaction is an IgG reaction. This is more of a sensitivity rather than a true allergy. This is a delayed reaction that can occur within hours or up to days after consuming a particular food. These reactions are often less severe and harder to identify. Reactions can include generalized fatigue, brain fog, muscle or joint pain, constipation, gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, eczema, and other skin conditions.

There are different ways to identify food sensitivities. The gold standard is the basic elimination diet. We eliminate the most

common highly allergenic foods for a period. Once symptoms have resolved we can then slowly reintroduce them and see how the body reacts. Common allergenic foods are dairy, wheat, eggs, corn, and soy.

Another way to test for sensitivities is an IgG blood test. This is a sensitivity test that allows us to identify up to 100-200 differ ent types of foods that may be negatively reacting in the body. These results can help us decide which specific foods to eliminate based on the level of reactivity.

Whichever way we identify food sensitivi ties, we eliminate those foods while heal ing the gut with additional naturopathic support. It can take up to six to eight weeks for symptoms to resolve. Imagine it is like a pair of shoes that causes a blister, you need to remove the shoe for a while, let the blister heal and then try the shoe on again. If the blister does not return then you can wear the shoes, if it does then it needs more time to heal.

A naturopathic physician can offer a more comprehensive and individualized ap proach to help you identify, eliminate, and heal any obstacles that may be impacting your health. Food is one of the simplest places to begin the healing process.

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

MONEY

Hearing and Dementia

By Shay Moser

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 dia betes and four times as important as physi cal 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.

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 Paradise Valley location recently opened.

Patients at the Hearing and Brain Center of America in Paradise Valley 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. And soon, Scottsdale residents will have a center nearby where they can get same-day treatments, too.

“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.”

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU GET YOUR HEARING CHECKED?

Dr. Darrow says the easy rule of thumb to remember is “ears and rears,” suggesting that when you turn 50 is when we should all have our first hearing test.

It’s difficult to notice the initial signs of hearing loss without a hearing evaluation, says Dr. Darrow. But it’s more likely to affect life as we grow older because noise damage starts to add up.

A LISTENING EAR FOR LOCAL DOCTORS

Many primary care physicians are starting to understand the connections between

hearing loss and dementia, according to Dr. Darrow. So, they’re incorporating a question about hearing loss in medical evaluations.

Doctors who have patients that may have hearing loss or are between 60 and 70 years old, can refer them to the Hearing and Brain Centers of America for cognitive screening.

Learn more about the importance of medically treating hearing loss at the free, one-hour community symposium in Paradise Valley on Thurs., Nov. 3. Visit hearinganddementia.com or call 602641-4179. You can learn more about Dr. Darrow at drkeithdarrow.com.

PICKLEBALL

The serve is the only shot required to start every point. The most critical component is that the serve must be in the court. A helpful way to think about it is to try to hit the serve in the middle of the court directly down the service line.

The next thought about the serve is depth and placement. Once we start hitting the ball consistently in the court, we now need to think about keeping the returning player back. We do this by hitting the serve deep in the court. This means we would like the ball to land about 2 to 3 feet from the baseline.

The serve, just like real estate, needs to be about location location location. Ideally, you really want to be pushing your serve to your opponent’s non-dominant stroke. For most players this is their backhand. A heavy, deep serve to your opponent’s backhand, is difficult to return and is the best way to start a winning point!

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Equal Housing Lender

NMLS #402468

A Personal Look at the Estate Planning Journey

By Travis Meyers, Associate Attorney, The Law Office of Libby Banks, PLLC

The past year was amazing for my family. Two notable highlights are starting a new job with The Law Office of Libby Banks and my wife and I welcoming our first child in July. As I reflect on the need to update my trust to plan for our new baby, I look back at my original experience creating an estate plan with Libby and why I joined her firm as an associate attorney.

When I first thought about estate planning for myself and my wife, I realized I did not know much more than what I learned in law school. I knew it was important to plan for my loved ones if I passed away, but I didn’t know exactly what that would look like.

Serendipitously, one day I found The Law Office of Libby Banks printed on the front cover of our local newspaper. I knew Libby and her family from church and mutual friends in our neighborhood. I knew Libby had an excellent reputa tion as an estate planning attorney and scheduled a free initial consultation.

During our initial meeting, my wife and I discussed our concerns with Libby. We were a young couple and believed we did not have the assets to justify creating a trust. I thought trusts were only for the rich, and that a will would be enough to accomplish our goals.

After listening to our goals and concerns, Libby asked us a few questions.

“Have you considered creating a plan for when you are incapacitated?” No, I had not considered the need for someone to handle our finances and/or healthcare decisions if we could not handle them ourselves.

“Is it important that your loved ones avoid probate if you pass away?” Even though I studied this area in law school, I never considered that probate could happen in our case with a will plan.

Based on our goals, Libby recommended creating a trust plan, explaining that it would be the most efficient way for us to avoid probate, and plan for both incapacity and death, while creating a flexible plan that can change as our life changes.

We chose the trust plan. Libby and her team drafted our plan, guided us through the different parts of our trust and advised us on when to think about making changes. The entire process was smooth, and we were given the gift of peace of mind.

Due to this experience, when asked to interview and ultimately join the firm, I jumped at the chance. Their service to our community and commitment to giving peace of mind to their clients fits naturally with my personal values and mission as a lawyer.

I am proud to work with this compassionate team of people and look forward to helping you create your own peace of mind. Call us at 602-375-6752.

and Scottsdale is highly customized to meet your unique

assets, values, and personal goals. Our complimentary first meeting allows

to get to know Libby, our Estate Planning attorney and talk about your unique situation and

best fit

needs.

Remember, when you choose Libby 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 professional 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

NOVEMBER HAPPENINGS

ATEEZ

When: Nov. 10

Where: Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale

What: Billboard charting global K-Pop group ATEEZ “The Fellowship: Break the Wall” world tour lands at Gila River Arena. The eight-member group’s exponential growth and reach continue to wow audiences with their choreography and catchy beats.

Info: gilariverarena.com

ELTON JOHN

When: Nov. 11

Where: Chase Center, 401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix

What: Elton John is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and composer whose remarkable career has spanned more than five decades. From owning the pop charts in the early ‘70s to selling over 300 million

records worldwide, Sir Elton is one of the best-selling artists in the world.

Info: chasecenter.com

DINO’S GIT DOWN 2022

When: Nov. 11 & 12

Where: State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Dr., Glendale

What: See custom Chevys and GMC trucks and cars on display. The event features a cruising lane, designated tailgate area, and a featured zone for the top 100 trucks, plus a vendor expo.

Info: dinosgitdown.com

PINNERS EXPO AND CONFERENCE

When: Nov. 11 & 12

Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16500 N. 94th St., Scottsdale

What: Enjoy a weekend of creative fun and shopping

at this women’s event that includes exhibitor shopping, make-and-takes, Pinners presenters, and classes on how to make things like a farmhouse star cake stands, macrame coasters, garlands, and more.

Info: az.pinnersconference.com

AZ BARRELS, BOTTLES & BREWS

When: Nov. 12

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

What: Celebrate craft beer, spirits, and wine from around Arizona with over 25 local breweries, distilleries, and wineries from the Copper state!

Info: saltriverfields.com/azbarrelsbottlesandbrews

PHOENIX PIZZA FESTIVAL

When: Nov. 12 & 13

Where: Margaret T. Hance Park,1202 N. 3rd. St., Phoenix

ELTON JOHN

What: Twenty-plus pizza makers sell all types of pizza slices and full pies at this fun festival. The event also features live music, lawn games, desserts, local market vendors, kids’ activities, and more. The event will offer a selection of wine, beer, cocktails, and nonalcoholic beverages.

Info: phoenix.pizza

DISNEY’S DCAPELLA

When: Nov. 17

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

What: DCappella is Disney Music Group’s premier a cappella singing sensation. Known for their reimagined classics from the Disney songbook, the group originally came together because of a nationwide search for the best vocal performing talent in a cappella and stage. Presented in partnership with Emporium Presents.

Info: mesaartscenter.com

CARRIE UNDERWOOD

When: Nov. 19

Where: Chase Center, 401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix

What: Carrie Underwood is a true multi-format, multi-media superstar, spanning achievements in music, television, film, and as a New York Times bestselling author and successful entrepreneur. She has sold more than 66 million records worldwide.

Info: chasecenter.com

ARIZONA INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

When: Nov. 24 - 27

Where: Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. 3rd St., Phoenix

What: The Arizona International Auto Show features hundreds of new cars, trucks, crossovers, SUVs, electric vehicles, exotics, and more. Celebrating Arizona’s car culture, this is the place to check out the latest new-model vehicles in a non-selling environment. From the latest all-electric vehicles to large trucks, attendees are invited to sit behind wheels, inspect engines, experience new technologies and even take a test drive.

Info: autoshowphoenix.com

MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS

When: Nov. 27

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

What: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Da vis has been America’s favorite holiday tradition for over 35 years!   Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has creat ed a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics in the distinctive Mannheim sound. The program celebrates the group’s recent anniversary of 35 years since the first Christmas album and includes dazzling multime dia effects performed in an intimate setting.

Info: mesaartscenter.com

Entertainment

Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates

By Tony Beal REVIEWS

and starring Billy Eichner. If you’re not a fan of his loud, in-your-face style of humor, you’re going to absolutely hate it. Even though the cast is sincerely trying, it feels like the film doesn’t really explore what makes the LGBT+ community diverse, save for some punchlines, despite the starting joke about how love life is different from traditional love stories seen in some of Nicholas Stoller’s previous films like “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” and “Neighbors.” It’s a film that wants to be more important than interesting, and it’s a shame when we’re in a time with few comedies like this being made.

focus on how distrustful and harsh the people of Haddonfield have become after the last two films. Jamie Lee Curtis’ last performance in her iconic role is a great development from before, giving a soft-spoken but still haunted change, and newcomer Rohan Campbell is great as our lead Corey Cunningham, convincing you of his rapid change as a character. Unfortunately, Andi Matichak is underused here, which is a shame after how much we’ve been with Allyson before. And, some of the film’s bizarre and abrupt editing choices will undermine what the film is going for. But, it’s still a solid and lean slasher, and one with an admirable change of pace that the series was needing, reminding you of how these films can be more than just killing sprees.

are about “trauma” but provides little thought about that. And, while it does keep an emphasis on the scares, they are laughable. The actors are trying their best, but they don’t walk away looking well, and there’s one notable argument scene that is hampered by its directing. The only element the film has that gives a sense of mood is the score, which feels like it’s meant for a different and better film. It’s hard to get mad because it’s great to see a horror debut from a filmmaker made at a studio level, but you still must put that money to good use.

UPCOMING RELEASES

November 4

• “Something In the Dirt” (Limited)

“Don’t Worry Darling”

A 1950s housewife begins to suspect something is hiding beneath her perfect life.

Movies like “Don’t Worry Darling” sometimes seem like they’re designed to be a Twitter thread. There’s a cast of hot people (most of whom are usually good at acting), and a visually appealing location and style, set within a topical thriller that is filled with moments designed to be screen capped or clipped. At its core, the film is a hollow retread of much more complex stories before it, particularly in its themes of sexism. The actors don’t seem to think much of the material. Chris Pine and Olivia Wilde walk away as the only entertaining performances because of how they ham it up. But, while the former is getting more ambitious as a director, there’s still not much beyond it. This is a movie of empty calories disguised as brain food.

“Bros”

Two men with commitment issues attempt a relationship.

“Bros” is a very annoying movie that very much loves itself, which perhaps makes sense since this is a movie co-written

“Halloween Ends”

Years after Michael Myers’ last massacre, Laurie Strode must face him once more after murders begin again in his fashion.

Your mileage on “Halloween Ends” will depend on how you feel about older, cheesier horror films and if you want to watch someone’s descent into madness. Though the sudden change in character dynamics and heightened vibe will turn off viewers, it fits given the film’s

“Smile”

A woman is stalked by a mysterious force that digs deep into her past trauma.

At some point, there’s a point where a film’s surreal nature becomes just a cover for the film’s inconsistent rules. “Smile” is another horror film where the scares

• “Salvatore: Shoemaker of Dreams” (Limited)

• “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” (Roku)

• “My Policeman” (Amazon Prime)

• “Enola Holmes 2” (Netflix)

November 11

• “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”

• “The Fabelmans” (Limited)

• “The Son” (Limited)

• “Spellbound” (Apple TV+)

November 16

• “The Wonder” (Netflix)

November 18

• “She Said”

• “The Menu”

• “Bones & All” (Limited)

• “The Inspection” (Limited)

• “Slumberland” (Netflix)

• “Spirited” (Apple TV+)

• “The People We Hate at The Wedding” (Amazon Prime)

November 23

• “Strange World”

• “Devotion”

• “Nanny”

• “All the Beauty and Bloodshed” (Limited)

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Known as one of Northern Arizona’s top resorts, Amara Resort and Spa is perfectly nestled along the banks of Oak Creek to provide the ideal getaway for those looking to explore the famed red rock canyons and fabled vortexes.

Consistently named one of the “Best Hotels” by Conde Nast Traveler and U.S. News & World Report, Amara recently underwent a multimillion-dollar, property-wide renovation. The refreshed, “tree-lodge” aesthetic takes inspiration from the surrounding environment and centers around a central biophilic concept of bringing the outdoors in by encompassing the five elements of nature––earth, wood, metal, fire, and water––offering new and returning guests alike the chance to experience the renowned desert destination in an entirely new way.

After spending a day traversing along one of the town’s numerous popular hikes or window-shopping in Uptown Sedona, visitors can indulge in one of the award-winning Amara Spa’s Sedona-inspired massages, facials, or body treatments, specially curated to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit.

Visitors can also bask in the clear blue skies and the cooler mountain air while gazing out past the resort’s expan sive, open-air courtyard and heated infinity-edge pool or by grabbing dinner on the patio of the signature onsite

restaurant, SaltRock Southwest Kitchen, which recently debuted a fully revitalized fall menu in tandem with the announcement of its new Executive Chef David Duncan.

Duncan, a native Arizonan, has integrated seasonal flavors and autumnal elements into these classic Southwest dishes while creating a menu that still matches the vi brancy of the surrounding atmosphere and iconic red rock views. While many signature favorites remain, this is the largest menu refresh to take place since SaltRock opened seven years ago.

Guests will enjoy standout dishes such as the Lobster Al Pastor Tacos with blue corn tortilla, pineapple, and jalapeño crema; Summer Squash Relleno with roasted po blano pepper, grilled button-onion, golden raisins, pepitas, Oaxaca cheese and forbidden black rice; and SaltRock’s current best seller, the Tiger Shrimp Tamal with garlic lime butter, charred corn polenta, crispy kale, and chimi churri oil. In the Trout Vera Cruz, featuring enchanted black rice, tomato consommé, brown butter, Veracruz relish, green olives, tomato and onion, the rainbow trout is caught just 10 miles up the road from the restaurant.

“Each dish truly pops on the plate due to the vivid colors and the stunning presentation,” Duncan says. “My team and I have worked diligently to create a menu that is a personification of Arizona in culinary form. It incorporates a lot of flavors that I love, including black garlic, poblano peppers and chiles, while promoting local purveyors wher

ever possible. Being born and raised in the state gives me a unique perspective and appreciation for the desert and I want that homegrown love to translate into each dish.”

The new menu complements the recently revamped cocktail program, created by SaltRock’s Assistant Director of Food and Beverage Ardi Dulaku. With libations that bring the beloved dining destination back to its roots with Mexican and Sedona-inspired flavors, visitors can pair their dishes with drinks such as the Vortex Therapy with turmeric infused Tito’s Vodka, passionfruit, inner-peace flower elixir, agave, lemon, and pink peppercorn; the Bo tanical Bee with Suncliffe Gin, ginger-thyme infused local honey and lemon; and the Oaxacan Negroni with cacao infused mezcal, Campari, vermouth, mole bitters, and earl gray cube.

“Throughout the brainstorming process, our team strived to ensure that the updated menu would complement Sal tRock’s extensive beverage program,” Duncan says. “When you dine with us, you can feel confident that there will also be a variety of cocktails to choose from that cohe sively pair with your dish and further elevate your overall culinary experience.”

To learn more about Amara Resort and Spa or to book a stay, visit amararesort.com or call 928-282-4828. For more information about SaltRock Southwest Kitchen or to make a reservation, visit amararesort.com/eat-drink or call 928-340-8803.

Photos Courtesy of Amara Resort and Spa