The Upper Westsider, March 2021

YOUR HYPERLOCAL NEWS SOURCE

March 2021

Vol. 2 • No. 4

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WHAT’S NEW IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD? Check Inside for the Latest in Community News, Entertainment, Dining & More PHOTO BY JODI RICHARDS OF JK RICHARDS PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.JKRICHARDSPHOTO.COM

In This Issue City News.................................................... 4-19 Education................................................... 20-21 Sudoku............................................................ 22 Kids Corner..................................................... 23

Business.......................................................... 25 Home......................................................... 26-27 Real Estate...................................................... 29 Business Directory.................................... 30-31

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Getaway.......................................................... 32 Entertainment................................................ 34 Bites................................................................ 35

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UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 3

City News Sunrise Promenade to Welcome Three New Tenants This Year

By Emma Wolff SUNRISE PROMENADE, LOCATED ON SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LAKE PLEASANT PARKWAY AND HAPPY VALLEY ROAD, IS A POPULAR RETAIL PROJECT THAT INCLUDES A BLEND OF LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL STORES AND RESTAURANTS. The current tenants for this shopping plaza include popular brands like Wow Wow Lemonade Stand, Black Rock Coffee, Yoga Six, Aldi, and more.

Thompson Thrift Retail Group, the real estate company behind Sunrise Promenade, just announced that MacMedia, StretchLab and Athletico Physical Therapy will join these topnotch retailers later this year.

MACMEDIA MacMedia is an authorized Macintosh (Apple) vendor offering sales, consultant services and repairs to Mac desktops, Mac laptops and all other Apple products. MacMedia is committed to providing Apple users the highest level of customer service and solutions, according to the company.

STRETCHLAB StretchLab offers a unique and innovative approach to assisted stretching that has created a

widespread and devoted following across the country. StretchLab helps participants safely stretch and search for ways to reduce injury, regain mobility and reclaim their freedom, according to the company. There are currently four StretchLab locations in Arizona and three new studios, including the Lake Pleasant location, opening this year. This will be the first StretchLab in the West Valley.

ATHLETICO PHYSICAL THERAPY With over 20 locations in Arizona, this will be the first Athletico Physical

Therapy in Peoria. The location will feature highly trained physical therapists, athletic trainers, personal trainers and massage therapists. All of the services and treatments are aimed to help people of all ages recover from back and neck pain, muscle strains and sprains, joint issues and sport, and work or auto injuries, according to the company.

For more information about Sunrise Promenade, visit the Thompson Thrift Retail Group website at thompsonthrift. com/properties/sunrise-promenade.

Republic Services Proposes New WestWing Recycling and Transfer Facility REPUBLIC SERVICES, INC. IS PROPOSING A NEW SITE FOR A RECYCLING AND WASTE TRANSFER FACILITY TO SERVE THE NORTHWEST VALLEY. The proposed location is in an industrial area by the Loop 303 and comes after considerable community outreach and review, according to the company.

“Part of being a good neighbor means listening and responding whenever possible,” says Stephen Herring, municipal relationship manager for Republic Services. “We appreciate the thoughtful community input. This new location achieves our primary goals of keeping recycling costs and trash disposal rates low while also addressing residents’ concerns.”

The WestWing Recycling & Transfer Facility would be built near 123rd Avenue and Hatfield Road on land that is already zoned for industrial uses.

The 10-acre parcel is adjacent to the WestWing Power Station and was specifically chosen because of its direct access to the 303, which keeps truck traffic off residential streets, according to Republic Services. As part of the site’s construction, Republic Services proposes building a 4 • March 2021 • UPPER WESTSIDER

new road from the 303 to the industrial site in response to community concerns about increased traffic near neighborhoods and on local thoroughfares. The company estimates there will be six truck trips an hour to and from the facility.

County that does not have a transfer facility. Even so, the proposed WestWing station would be among the smallest of the Valley’s existing 32 transfer stations. Plans call for the proposed facility to be about the size of a retail drug store.

Republic Services shares that other benefits of the proposed facility and site include: • No offsite odor or noise impacts • No added traffic congestion at Happy Valley and the 303 • Blocked from view by freeway barriers • No impact on property values • Limited operational footprint • Preserves recycling programs and keeps residential bills low

This new transfer station proposal comes after Republic Services decided not to pursue building a transfer facility near 115th Ave and Happy Valley Road due to community tension and feedback. Even though the company touts benefits to the new proposed location, many community members still have concerns that range from increased traffic to noise to diminished home values.

Plans call for the WestWing facility to utilize state-of-theart technology, including misting systems for odor and dust control, netting for bird migration, nightly cleaning of the tipping floor and closing of bay doors, as well as required tarps for all inbound vehicles.

Republic Services shares that the rapidly growing Northwest Valley is currently the only region in Maricopa

As of press time, the Facebook group “Happy Valley Says NO to a Waste Transfer Station” had more than 4,300 members, a vast majority of who appeared to be against the new proposed location. Republic Services’ employees are also members of the same group and continue to offer communication and replies to concerns. City of Peoria officials are currently encouraging Republic Services to listen to residents’ concerns.

To learn more, visit westwingtransfer.com. myhyperlocalnews.com

City News The City of Peoria Announces Long-Awaited Regional Hospital Construction is expected to begin next month BEGINNING IN APRIL, CONSTRUCTION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON A NEW, STATE-OF-THE-ART HOSPITAL IN NORTH PEORIA. The facility will provide comprehensive emergency medical services and bring more than 150 jobs to the area.

patient beds, and intermediate care/ICU beds as determined by need. The imaging department will include radio fluoroscopy, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, bone densitometry, x-ray, and nuclear medicine.

“The city of Peoria is thrilled to welcome Peoria Regional Hospital as our first full-service hospital and the latest addition to our growing advanced healthcare industry,” says Mayor Cathy Carlat. “It’s vital that all residents have access to quality medical care close to home. And, with the new jobs this facility will bring, I am grateful for the widespread impact this hospital will have on our community.”

“For years this site sat dormant and now it’s being utilized to provide much-needed, specialized medical services and infrastructure updates to the rapidly growing north Peoria area,” says Mesquite District Councilmember Bridget Binsbacher.

Upon completion, the full-service hospital will occupy 82,000 square feet of space with separate entrances for walk-in and emergency medical transport, which will provide direct access to the emergency department. The hospital will have 32 beds, including a surgical suite with three operating rooms supported by an eight-bed pre-operative unit and an 11-bed post-anesthesia care unit, a heart catheterization procedure room, 28 medical/surgical

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First Service Medical purchased the land near the southwest corner of Lake Pleasant Parkway and Jomax Road in September 2020. In October, the remaining, abandoned steel structure was demolished. First Service Medical is the investment entity formed for acquisition of the property and its future development as a medical campus. The principals and development team are experienced in hospital and real estate development throughout the U.S. “Over the past two years, Peoria’s Economic Development Services Department worked to recruit

and form a development team that could fund, design, construct, and operate a regional hospital at the site,” says Peoria Economic Development Services Director Rick Buss. “We are excited to see this long-awaited hospital development come to fruition.”

The new hospital is expected to open in late 2022.

For more information about the property and development, contact the city at 623-773-7735.

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 5

City News

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According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), several studies have shown that marijuana use can impair a number of cognitive processes that are important for safe driving, such as reaction time and responses to road emergencies, motor coordination, road tracking, and completing complex tasks that require divided attention. In neighboring Colorado, since recreational marijuana was legalized seven years ago, traffic deaths involving positive marijuana toxicology have increased 151% while all Colorado traffic deaths have only increased 35%. Also sobering is that the AAA’s 2019 Traffic Safety Culture Index reveals that only 70% of respondents consider driving shortly after using marijuana to be very or extremely dangerous.

There is no breathalyzer in use to detect tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. However, that technology is on the horizon. Some law enforcement agencies outside of Arizona are experimenting with technology that detects THC following a swab of the cheek. For instance, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute recently provided 52 Indiana law enforcement agencies with a handheld analyzer that uses an oral fluid swab to detect the presence of six kinds of drugs, including cannabis.

Arizona’s law prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle when a person is impaired to the slightest degree, but the presence of marijuana in a person’s body alone does not make them guilty of DUI. There is no objective standard in Arizona that

defines impairment. Impairment is a subjective determination by the police officer based on the totality of circumstances leading up to and surrounding the stop like the driver’s observed behavior, the officer’s detection of marijuana odor, the driver’s responses to questions, and the driver’s performance on standard field sobriety tests.

If an officer has reasonable grounds to believe a driver was driving impaired, then Arizona law creates “implied consent” to a blood test. If the driver declines, their license will be confiscated and suspended. Arizona police agencies are also deploying drug enforcement vans with police officers who can electronically obtain blood draw search warrants through on-call judges and those same officers may be certified phlebotomists capable of drawing blood at the scene. THC in the blood and other evidence of impairment can lead to DUI conviction, significant fines and jail time.

If you have recently consumed marijuana, follow a simple rule: Don’t get behind the wheel. Remember, if you feel different, you drive different.

As a personal injury lawyer over the last thirty years, I’ve seen the results of making poor decisions and getting behind the wheel, time and again.

Those decisions can cause permanent injuries, or worse. It can affect countless lives, including your own.

Once the damage is done, it cannot be reversed.

Marc Lamber is a Martindale Hubbell AV Preeminent-rated trial attorney. A director at Fennemore Craig, Lamber has been featured in national and local media, including the Arizona Republic, USA Today, ABC News, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, the ABA Journal and many others. myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

Community Engagement Needed for Paloma Park’s Phase Two and Peoria’s Trails Master Plan

By Bridget Binsbacher, Peoria Councilmember, Mesquite District ONE OF THE MANY THINGS PEORIA IS KNOWN FOR IS ITS STUNNING SONORAN DESERT LANDSCAPE, WITH UNFETTERED ACCESS TO HIKING TRAILS, BIKING TRAILS, WALKING PATHS AND SOME OF THE MOST SCENIC VISTAS IN THE VALLEY. The Peoria City Council and city leadership have prioritized the preservation of open space, purposefully planning for a balance of the built and natural environments in the city. With 33 parks, 20 miles of trails and several mountain preserves, Peoria continues to strategically preserve its cultural and natural assets as well as enhance them with diverse and inclusive recreational amenities.

Peoria’s residents are a vital component of that planning process, providing important feedback and support during the planning and engagement periods.

Like we did with the first phase of the development of Paloma Community Park, the city is currently working on the details of phase two. Phase two will include the

to hear from you. Help us create innovative and sustainable outdoor spaces and recreational amenities.

Stay tuned as more information about Paloma Community Park and the Trails Master Plan become available.

final development of 35 more acres in the park as well as the connections to surrounding open spaces and trail systems. The community engagement period will begin this year where residents will be asked to share their ideas for recreational amenities, such as a skate park or basketball courts, and provide their ideas on so much more. For more information, visit peoriaaz.gov/ paloma.

Alongside Paloma’s expansion, the city is creating a Trails Master Plan update this year as well. The goal of this plan is to audit the city’s existing trails as well as how those connect to private and public trail systems outside of Peoria’s boundaries. With that information and the help of residents, we can identify and prioritize projects for the city. The critical piece of this plan is citizen engagement, which will be woven through the whole process through surveys, focus groups, public meetings, and proactive and ongoing communication.

Be sure to check out our current trails information at peoriaaz.gov/trails.

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In large bowl, stir together 1 cup sugar, the cornstarch, tapioca and salt; gently toss with berries. Let stand 15 minutes. Spoon into crust-lined pie plate.

Unroll 1 crust on work surface. Using small sharp knife, cut pi symbol in center of crust. Place crust over filling. Wrap excess top crust under bottom crust edge. Press edges together to seal; flute. Brush crust with milk; arrange numerals around edge of crust. Sprinkle crust with 2 teaspoons sugar.

Place pie on middle oven rack; place large cookie sheet on rack below pie plate in case of spillover. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F. Cover edge of crust with strips of foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake 40 to 45 minutes longer or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Let stand 2 hours before serving.

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City News

Sweet, Sweet News: BoSa Donuts Coming to Northwest Peoria Soon EVERY TIME YOU PASS A BOSA DONUTS LOCATION, YOU ARE BOUND TO SEE A LINE OF CARS AT THE DRIVE-THRU. According to the company, they have more than 25 locations across the Valley. Most of the locations are open seven days a week, 24 hours a day, so it’s perfect for donut cravings night or day. Because of the locallygrown chain’s popularity, they recently announced the opening of several new locations across the Valley this spring, including one in Northwest Peoria.

The Peoria BoSa Donuts is scheduled to open in April at 25225 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway. While donuts are obviously the main draw, BoSa will serve a variety of other items.

“In addition to donuts, you can also find a wide variety of baked goods, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, fresh fruit smoothies, hot and iced coffee, and Boba tea,” according to the company.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UPPER WEST SIDE PHX

The new BoSa Donuts location will be located at Sunrise Promenade. “We have been working diligently with the City of Peoria and surrounding community to create a first-class retail project that includes a

blend of local, regional and national retailers and restaurants,” says Chris Hake, senior VP, director southwest region for Thompson Thrift Retail Group, the real estate company behind Sunrise Promenade.

To find the latest BoSa Donuts news, follow them on Facebook @bosadonutsaz. You can also visit their website at bosadonutsaz.com.

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City News

Peoria Launches Transit Survey to Begin Master Planning; Survey Open Until March 12 THE CITY OF PEORIA IS A REGION ON THE MOVE. Projections of an additional 100,000 residents and 26,000 jobs over the next 20 years puts a spotlight on the need to expand the city’s transit services as the population grows. The city of Peoria is seeking feedback from residents and business owners as the Peoria Transit Master Plan (TMP) process begins.

“Just as the onset of the affordable automobile coincided with the onset of the suburbs, transportation has always played a part in defining our daily lives,” says Mayor Cathy Carlat.

“Now, driverless cars, electric vehicles

and a sharing economy all point to an exciting time of change that may again shift our daily habits and redefine how we interact in and out of our city.

I encourage you to take part in the creation of Peoria’s Transit Master Plan that will position us for a successful future in this changing environment.”

On Nov. 3, 2020, Peoria residents overwhelmingly approved the Plan Peoria 2040 General Plan, which calls for master planning efforts for various modes of travel to provide a safe, connected, integrated, and efficient transportation system. Currently, transit service in Peoria is limited

to south of Bell Road. The TMP will consider opportunities to improve access and mobility throughout a greater portion of the city, including opportunities for autonomous vehicles, local buses, circulators, paratransit, express commuter buses, higher capacity services such as commuter rail and bus rapid transit, and policies that make transit more accessible and easier to ride.

“The first step of this master planning process is evaluating what we currently have and then asking our residents what they like, don’t like, and what they envision for the future of Peoria public

transportation,” says Peoria Public Works Director Kevin Burke. “We want to have a very collaborative process where we hear what is most important to them and then build a plan that is responsive to their needs.”

The TMP Community Survey is short, comprising of less than 20 questions, and will be open until Friday, March 12.

Residents can provide their feedback and take the survey by visiting peoriaaz.gov/transit. After the survey closes, feedback will be collected, incorporated into the master plan document, and then presented to the Peoria City Council this spring.

Help Peoria Go Green: City’s Sustainable Survey is Open Until March 15 THE CITY OF PEORIA HAS PARTNERED WITH ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY’S SUSTAINABILITY LEADERSHIP MASTER’S PROGRAM AND THE ASU SUSTAINABLE CITIES NETWORK TO UPDATE THE CITY’S SUSTAINABILITY ACTION PLAN. To help in this effort, they are asking Peoria residents to participate in the Peoria Sustainable Survey, which will be open until March 15.

“The city of Peoria needs your input about what sustainability issues and topics are most important to you,” according to the city. “This survey is meant to gauge residents’ feedback and what you would like to see changed or kept the same in Peoria’s sustainability programming. Your responses will help shape the direction of the new sustainability plan and the future of our city.”

Responses are anonymous and voluntary; any identifying information and metadata will be removed from the final data provided to staff, with the exception of free response questions, according to the city.

At the end of the survey, participants can opt in to a raffle for a $100 Amazon gift card or a $50 Visa gift card.

“We want this plan to be driven by the community and are excited to hear what actions and goals our residents envision in our eight topic areas,” says Victoria Caster, Peoria’s sustainability and water conservation coordinator.

The survey can be found here: http://bit.ly/ PeoriaSustainableSurvey. myhyperlocalnews.com

MORE ABOUT THE CITY’S SUSTAINABLE PEORIA PLAN “Past sustainability efforts have provided a solid base for us to build upon, but we are always looking for ways to improve,” says Cape Powers, Peoria director of water services. “The updated plan will help us adapt to changing conditions, such as increasing concerns related to water availability, and more directly reflect the views of our residents. Our goal is to ensure that providing for our community’s needs today does not impact the ability to provide for the needs of future generations.”

The city’s last sustainability plan was created in 2012 to

establish clear goals and metrics that guided all departments in reviewing and adopting more sustainable practices and technologies. This year’s plan, named the Sustainable Peoria Plan, aims to not only expand upon the previous plan’s objectives but to set new, ambitious goals and engage Peoria residents throughout the development and implementation processes.

The new proposed plan will be reviewed by the Peoria City Council later this year. For more information or to sign up to receive sustainability news, visit peoriaaz. gov/sustainability.

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 9

City News DrivingMBA Opens a West Valley Location to Help Locals Stay Safe on the Road

By Amy Wolff FOR MOST TEENAGERS, GETTING A DRIVER’S LICENSE IS A RITE OF PASSAGE AND SOMETHING THEY DREAM ABOUT FOR YEARS. But as parents know, thinking about their child behind the wheel can be terrifying.

Research shows motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death among teenagers in the U.S. and most fatal collisions occur within six months of a driver obtaining a license. That is why proper driver training is essential to keeping teens safe on the road.

DrivingMBA, an industry leader in driver education, just opened a new West Valley facility. Located at Il Palazzo at Arrowhead Ranch, 5940 W. Union Hills Drive, Suite D210, the new office will provide the same state-of-the-art training programs the company’s Scottsdale location had been delivering for nearly 20 years.

e to Welcom

Richard and Maria Wojtczak were inspired to open DrivingMBA after learning about several disturbing car crashes in their community that killed four teenagers.

After spending a lifetime in the automotive industry and retiring from Ford Motor Company, plus having a pre-teen daughter, the Wojtczaks were acutely sensitive to the issue of safe driving and knew they had to do something. They began investigating driver training programs in the Valley and were shocked at the lack of adequate education and requirements to obtain an Arizona driver’s license.

tion program unlike any other program in the country.”

“The requirements for teenagers to get their license in the state of Arizona are minimal,” says Maria. “Most final evaluations do not include driving on a freeway and the required 30 hours behind the wheel is just not enough to prepare new drivers to be competent and safe on the roads. Thanks to our experience in the automotive industry, we were inspired to design and pioneer a modern, technology-driven, science-based driver educa-

“Our mission is to save lives. We believe in the power of education and providing our students training and tools based on research and science to help them become competent, responsible and safe drivers for the rest of their lives,” says Maria.

To date, more than 15,000 teens, adults and seniors have graduated from the DrivingMBA program in Scottsdale to

become safer, more responsible and confident drivers.

“For us, teen driver training is not just a business, it’s a passion. Teen crashes are the number one killer of teenagers in the United States, so we live and breathe our mission every day.”

DrivingMBA also offers programs for adult drivers, exceptional learners and fleet drivers. For more information visit, drivingmba.com or call 480-948-1648.

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DrivingMBA provides a holistic drivereducation program that combines three elements: in-class driving theory classes covering basic rules of the road and defensive driving education; state-of-the-art simulators, comparable to those used to train airline pilots and police; and extensive behind-the-wheel training. Students are taught techniques to overcome stressful situations as well as gain comfort and confidence behind the wheel.

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THE INDUSTRY LEADER IN DRIVER EDUCATION IS NOW COMING TO THE NORTHWEST VALLEY! DrivingMBA has been in Scottsdale for over 15 years. One thing we learned early on is that standard driver training isn’t enough.

At DrivingMBA, our mission is to save lives.

We believe in the power of education by providing our students training and tools based on research and science to help them become competent, responsible, and safe drivers. Our unique approach combines simulation with on-road lessons and on-line classes for a one-of-a-kind experience.

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Our program helps teen drivers develop: • Safe driving habits • Better decision-making skills in dangerous situations • A better understanding of personal and vehicle limitations

Il Palazzo at Arrowhead Ranch 5940 W. Union Hills Dr. Suite D210 Glendale, AZ 85308 myhyperlocalnews.com

City News The AZ Rockabilly Bash will Rock You March 26 – 28 Photo Courtesy of Craig Rusboldt THE 10TH ANNUAL AZ ROCKABILLY BASH IS GOING TO BE HELD AT PLEASANT HARBOR (8708 W. HARBOR BOULEVARD) ON MARCH 26-27 WITH AN AUTOMOTIVE SWAP MEET ON SUNDAY, MARCH 28.

This “Kustom Kulture Festival” is a celebration of hot rods, music, pin ups and the classic car culture. The three-day event includes vendors, foods, burn out contests and a full line up of bands. On stage will be The Delta Bombers, Deke Dickerson and the Whippersnappers, The Rocketz, The Sandbox Bullies, The Devillains, The FreakBillyz and Johnny Hootrock. While the bands play, attendees can enjoy food, shopping, dancing, and more.

The event also showcases a pin up pageant and awards for over 10 categories.

The event takes place from 3-9 p.m. on Friday; 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Saturday; and the automotive swap meet is from 6 a.m. to noon on Sunday. Tickets are available online or at the gate for $30; kids 12 and under are free. Car registration is open to pre-1972 classic cars, all year bikes, pull start only vintage mini bikes, and vintage trailers. If you are entering a vehicle, you can pre-register online at azrockabillybash.com or at the gate.

The automotive swap meet is Sunday, and for vendors, it is first come first serve. For more details on the swap meet, call 602-575-1950.

Editor’s note: Be sure to follow COVID-19 safety protocols when attending any public events, including face coverings, social distancing and hand sanitizing.

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UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 11

City News Share Your Voice by Serving on a Peoria City Board

By Emma Wolff CITY GOVERNMENT IS THE BACKBONE TO ANY THRIVING COMMUNITY AND HAVING DEDICATED CITIZENS SHARE THOUGHTS, CONCERNS AND FEEDBACK IS INVALUABLE. The city of Peoria is looking for residents of all ages to join the city boards and contribute their insight.

Community members can submit an application for any of the 18 Peoria Boards and Commissions, even if there aren’t openings currently. However, the Veteran’s Memorial Board and the Youth Advisory Board are actively seeking members to fill vacant positions.

“Peoria residents who wish to take an active role in their community are invited to serve on a Board or Commission,” according to the city.

“Boards and Commissions are public

bodies that advise the City Council on various matters. Serving as a board member is a great way to foster citizen involvement and add input to city government.”

The city of Peoria is responsible for parks and recreation services, police and fire departments, emergency medical services, municipal courts, transportation and public works. If you want to share your thoughts and add to the success of these departments, serving on a City Board or Commission is a great way to get involved.

The Veterans Memorial Board is seeking individuals with a passion for the Armed forces or past military experience to help honor and contribute to the veteran community.

The Youth Advisory board is an opportunity for students interested in government to get a hands-on experience working with the city.

When you take off, We take care!!!

APPLY FOR THE VETERAN’S MEMORIAL BOARD The Veteran’s Memorial Board is responsible for the development and promotion of activities related to the recognition of Armed Forces veterans and their contributions to the community. This board is also responsible for making recommendations about the creation and preservation of the city’s numerous war and service memorials.

The board typically meets on the first Thursday of the month at 5 p.m.

The term for this board seat is four years once acquired. To apply for this position, visit peoriaaz.gov/boards. You can also call or email the City Clerk’s office for an application at 623-7737340 or CityClerk2@peoriaaz.gov.

Applicants must be a registered voter in the state of Arizona. Peoria residency is also a requirement for most City Boards and Commissions.

APPLY FOR THE YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD TODAY The Youth Advisory Board provides 7-11 graders an opportunity to be involved with their city government.

This is a great experience for students who are involved with their student council or have an interest in government work. Members of this board serve on various subcommittees, ranging from fundraising and community service to social media and planning the annual Youth Government Day. Youth Advisory Board members serve two-year terms and those who have served on the board for at least six months are eligible to apply to be a Youth Council Liaison. The Youth Council Liaison will join the Mayor and the City Council at all meetings. Visit peoriaaz.gov/boards or contact the City Clerk’s office to receive an application.

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City News Enjoy the Outdoors, Support Local Vendors at Vistancia Community Farmers Market

By Jenna-Lee Neff and Michelle Talsma Everson WITH OUR GORGEOUS WEATHER, NOW IS THE PRIME TIME TO GET OUT TO A FARMERS MARKET TO SUPPORT LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES, FARMS AND CREATIVES. Locally, the Vistancia Community Farmers Market is up and running the third Sunday of every month. It takes place at The Village Of Vistancia HOA Community Center’s parking lot at 29701 N. Sunrise Point from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be markets on March 20, April 17, and May 21 before pausing for the summer months.

“This market is a family fun market and has new vendors on monthly basis,” says Christian Smith of Smiths Local Farmers Markets, which puts on the event. “Please come out and support your community market.”

Smith shares that the market features a wide variety of items such as: local produce, breads and pastries, cage free eggs, grass fed beef, local organic honey, salsas and sauces, speciality olive oils, cold pressed juices and tea, organic pet food and treats, health and wellness products, handmade jewelry, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, food trucks, live music, and more. He adds that the market is pet-friendly, too.

To learn more, follow @Smithslocalfarmersmarkets on Facebook.

NEARBY FARMERS MARKETS

Love farmers markets and want to visit as many as you can before it’s too hot? Here are two more nearby markets that we recommend: PINNACLE PEAK FARMER’S MARKET Pinnacle Peak Farmer’s Market is a weekly Saturday morning market on Pinnacle Peak and 43rd Avenue in Glendale, located in the parking lot of Hurricane Harbor Water Park.

Hours: Open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Address: 4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale Website: facebook.com/pinnaclepeakfarmersmarket ARROWHEAD FARMER’S MARKET The Arrowhead Farmer’s Market is a weekly Saturday morning market located on the north side of the Arrowhead Town Center mall parking lot in front of the old Sears building next to the AMC movie theater.

Hours: Open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Address: 7780 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale Website: getlocalarizonaevents.com/saturdaymarket

Farmers Market Tips & Tricks USE THESE TIPS TO GUARANTEE THE BEST SELECTION, EASY SHOPPING AND A COMFORTABLE DAY: 1. COME EARLY For best selection of produce, arrive first thing so that you have first choice on the variety of produce you’ll see at your farmers market.

2. BRING CHANGE AND SMALL BILLS Though more and more markets are set up to take credit cards, carrying cash is a must.

3. BRING A COOLER Some smart produce shoppers bring a cooler on wheels to keep produce fresh until it gets home.

4. DRESS FOR THE WEATHER Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring drinking water.

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PRACTICING SAFETY AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING IS A MUST. USE THESE TIPS TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19: 1. LIMIT YOUR GROUP Prevent overcrowding at the markets by limiting the amount of people you bring on your trip.

2. COVER YOUR MOUTH Bring your face mask and wear it secured properly over your nose and mouth in public areas.

3. LOOK, DON’T TOUCH Only touch produce items you plan to buy. The less people who touch an item, the less opportunities that exist for contamination.

4. STUFFY NOSE? STAY HOME If you or someone in your group isn’t feeling well, consider postponing your trip to the farmers market. Pay them a visit when you are well.

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 13

City News DID YOU KNOW?

EoS Fitness to Open New Location in the Upper Westside NATIONAL FITNESS BRAND EOS FITNESS JUST ANNOUNCED THEIR PLANS TO OPEN A NEW LOCATION IN NORTHWEST PEORIA IN 2022.

EoS Fitness opened its first location in Arizona in December 2015 and has continued to expand with new locations across the state.

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“Arizona has always held a special place in the heart of EoS Fitness, and it’s our absolute honor to be the gym of choice for so many members across the state as they go after their fitness goals,” says Rich Drengberg, CEO of EoS Fitness. “We’ve worked hard to bring our communities safe, accessible fitness options and our growth in Peoria and beyond is a testament to the dedication of our team and our commitment to the communities we serve.”

According to the company, EoS provides engaging ways its members can accomplish their fitness goals, including access to “The Yard,” a green turf functional training area, the MOVEōS Cinema, where movies are played on a big screen during workouts with a range of cardio equipment, and the company’s signature G-Fit group fitness and cycle classes.

The newest location planned for NW Peoria will be built from the ground up, featuring 38,000 square feet of state-ofthe-art fitness space and will be located off the corner of Deer Valley Road and Lake Pleasant Parkway.

The Enrollment Center for the new Peoria location is not yet open to the public. However, locals who are interested can sign up to be the first to hear about opening dates, exclusive deals and more at EoSfitness.com.

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City News Barrett-Jackson is Back March 20 - 27 With COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place BARRETT-JACKSON, DUBBED “THE WORLD’S GREATEST COLLECTOR CAR AUCTIONS,” WILL OFFER MORE THAN 1,100 GENUINE AUTOMOBILIA ITEMS WITH NO RESERVE DURING THE SCOTTSDALE AUCTION AT WESTWORLD OF SCOTTSDALE MARCH 20-27. The highly coveted collectibles offered during the Automobilia Auction – which will cross the block daily beginning Monday, March 22 – include over 60 original neon porcelain signs, over 35 beautifully restored gas pumps, and many items from the Larry Winkler and Laguna Euro collections.

Included in the 1,100-item offering at the Barrett-Jackson Automobilia Auction will be more than 400 pieces from the Larry Winkler Collection. Among the authentic collectibles in the collection are more than 20 original neon signs, 10 original kiddie rides and approximately 15 restored gas pumps, as well as hundreds of pieces from auto dealerships and soda-related collectibles.

Another Automobilia Auction highlight will be approximately 30 pieces from the Laguna Euro Collection. Many of the rare items feature European sportscar brands, including Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and Alfa Romeo. Among those crossing the block in Scottsdale is a near-impossible-to-find late 1960s Lamborghini Service Porcelain Sign that is in excellent condition.

“Automobilia has become a critical part of the collector car hobby over the last decade,” says Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. “When demand for authentic automotive art and décor skyrocketed in the early 1990s, we were the first to respond with a dedicated automobilia auction. Today, the quality of automobilia like pieces found in the

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Winkler and Laguna Euro collections are coveted by collectors worldwide.”

A meticulously restored 1965 Shelby GT350 from the personal collection of Barrett-Jackson Chairman and CEO Craig Jackson will headline a group of highly desirable 1960s-era Shelby cars to be sold at no reserve during the auction.

One of the world’s greatest examples of the first-year Shelby GT350, more than 2,000 man-hours were invested in the museum-quality restoration of this “triple crown-winning” historic and lowmileage former PR car.

Barrett-Jackson also announced that VIN 001 of a pair of new exciting highperformance cars, the 2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing and CT4-V Blackwing will be sold to benefit charity during the Scottsdale auction. One hundred percent of the hammer price from both first-production performance sedans will benefit Black Ambition, a PolicyLink nonprofit initiative launched by Pharrell Williams that provides a bridge to success for Black and Latinx entrepreneurs who are launching tech, design, healthcare and consumer products/services start-ups.

To date, Barrett-Jackson has helped raise more than $127 million for more than 130 local and national charitable organizations.

COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES Barrett-Jackson is committed to the health and safety of all its guests, sponsors, vendors, partners and media during its in-person events, according to the organization. The company is closely following local, state and federal health and safety protocols.

To help maintain physical distancing guidelines recommended for live

events, the auction arena during BarrettJackson’s 2021 Scottsdale Auction will be limited to bidders, consignors and their guests. Tickets to the event can be purchased by the general public online in advance only. Enhanced live online and phone bidding options will be available for registered bidders.

Other safety measures already in place for the Barrett-Jackson 2021 Scottsdale Auction include: • General admission tickets are available for purchase online, in advance only (no gate sales).

• Access to the auction arena will be restricted to bidders, consignors and their guests on auction days.

• Face coverings required for all guests ages 2 and above (indoors and hightrafficked outdoor areas).

• No-touch temperature checks for all attendees prior to entering.

• Clear bag policy for all guests.

• Directional signage and ground marking for physical distancing requirements.

• Enhanced on-site cleaning procedures.

• Readily available hand sanitizer.

• Advanced filtration and air treatment technologies at WestWorld.

“We take the health and safety of our guests extremely seriously,” says Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of BarrettJackson. “We were lauded for the efforts we took to help create a safe environment for our guests during our Fall Auction in Scottsdale last year, and we want to go even further than what was done during that event. We’re extremely pleased about the added safety Draganfly will bring to our Scottsdale Auction, and we’ll continue to implement new health solutions as they become available.”

For safety protocols and information about the 2021 Scottsdale Auction, visit barrett-jackson.com.

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 15

City News Help Peoria Parks and Recreation by Participating in the Birding BioBlitz

By Emma Wolff Photo by Miachelle D Photography MIGRATION SEASON IS APPROACHING FOR MANY ARIZONA BIRDS AND PEORIA PARKS AND RECREATION IS DOING ALL IT CAN TO HELP THESE FEATHERED FRIENDS. All month long, the city of Peoria is hosting a BioBlitz in order to record as many bird species as possible. A BioBlitz is an interactive way to track and learn more about the birds located in Peoria while engaging the community in a fun, safe outdoor activity.

“We need all the help we can get from local bird watchers. By taking your own photos, we will be able to catalogue all the birds in Peoria. Whether it is a common bird or rare, local or migratory, we will take all the pictures you have,” says Della Killeen, a City of Peoria Park Ranger. “Learning about the birds in Peoria will provide the city with valuable information about the surrounding ecosystem, food production, biodiversity, and give us a better understanding on which plants support these bird populations.”

The Parks and Recreation department is encouraging Peoria residents to enjoy the beautiful spring weather and try birding while participating in the BioBlitz. Here’s how to participate: If you see a bird while exploring a park, hiking or just hanging out in your backyard, snap a photo of it.

Once the photo is taken either upload it to the iNaturalist app or email it to della. killeen@peoriaaz.gov.

With the iNaturalist app, you can take a picture of a bird or a bird-friendly plant and the community will help identify the species. Any observation made in the Peoria boundaries during March will count in this event. The Sonoran Audubon Society will also help identify bird species as well as give tips on selecting bird friendly plants and installing water features to attract more birds.

To learn more about the BioBlitz go to peoriaaz.gov or follow Peoria Parks and Recreation on Facebook @peoriaazrec.

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STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: MARCH MADNESS ACROSS 1. Theories 5. T in Greek 8. Tarzan’s mom, e.g.

11. Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, e.g.

12. Ingredient in talcum powder 13. Spectator 15. 5,280 feet 16. Tiny river 17. Note taker 18. *Last NCAA basketball winner 20. Any day now 21. Antiquarian’s concern, pl.

22. Diana Ross and Michael Jackson movie, with The 23. Saw a nightmare 26. Caribbean rattles 30. Witch’s spell 31. Flocked-to destinations 34. Goo or slime 35. Plural of ostium 37. Leo mo.

38. Eurasian goat-like antelope 39. Showing signs of use 40. “Yo, ____!”

42. *Nothing but it 43. Wrap a baby 45. *____-elimination 47. Outrage 48. Fraternity K 50. One of the Bridges 52. *____ 1 schools only 55. ____less but pennywise 56. Decanter 57. In a frenzy 59. Threesome 60. Turkish monetary unit, plural 61. Dumpy establishment 62. Common conjunction 63. New York time 64. Male deer Down 1. Singular of #1 Across 2. Rikers Island weapon 3. Burkina Faso neighbor 4. Himalayan mountaineer 5. Tarnish 6. “____ ____ fair in love and war” 7. *School with most NCAA basketball titles

8. Choir member 9. Hammer part 10. Blunder 12. Sad, to mademoiselle 13. Radio studio sign 14. *Mid-major school that’s become major powerhouse 19. Kind of ray 22. Is no longer 23. Arabian sailing vessels 24. Restart from seed 25. Uncredited actor 26. The Wise Men 27. Acting as a prompter 28. Snow impression 29. Eric Heiden’s “shoe” 32. *Oklahoma State’s super freshman ____ Cunningham SOLUTION ON PAGE 35.

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33. Mixed breed puppy 36. *2021 NCAA Tournament location 38. What Edward Scissorhands does 40. Stout relative 41. Dream big 44. Ancient Celtic priest 46. Water nymphs 48. Fuzzy fruit, pl.

49. Deflect 50. Sanders’ campaign slogan “Feel the ____” 51. “National Velvet” author Bagnold 52. Expunge 53. Fail to mention 54. Scotia preceder 55. School-related org.

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City News Planning on Attending Spring Training Games? Here’s What You Should Know

SPRING TRAINING LOCATIONS “Attendance policies at each ballpark are available at their specific websites, but in general, fans should expect face mask requirements, physical distancing, and limited capacity at all parks,” according to VisitArizona.com. The state tourism website suggests that attendees visit CactusLeague.com for the most up to date information.

American Family Fields: 3805 N. 53rd Ave., Phoenix

Sloan Park: 2330 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Mesa

Camelback Ranch: 10710 W. Camelback Road, Glendale

Salt River Fields: 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale

Goodyear Ballpark: 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear

Hohokam Stadium: 1235 N. Center Street, Mesa

Peoria Sports Complex: 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria

18 • March 2021 • UPPER WESTSIDER

Surprise Stadium: 15930 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise

Tempe Diablo Stadium: 2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe

Scottsdale Stadium: 7408 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale

By Regina Burgess Photos Alina Nelson BATTER UP. MASK UP. Despite an offseason that suggested a delay to the start of spring training, Major League Baseball pitchers and catchers kicked off games on February 27.

Arizona is home to 10 stadiums where 15 Cactus League teams prepare for the regular season each year. Last month, MLB’s Players Association rejected a proposal by the league to postpone the start of spring ball because of COVID-19 concerns.

Major League Baseball did not announce a blanket policy because many of the decisions are determined by individual municipalities. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all of the Major League Baseball spring training stadiums will operate at significantly reduced capacities with a reduced number of fans at each game. Although, as of press time, few teams released specific details of attendance plans, most are expected to follow guidelines similar to the ones the City of Tempe announced recently.

Tempe Diablo Stadium, spring home of the Los Angeles Angels, will open at 25% capacity. This would allow 1,800 to 2,000 guests to attend the games.

On February 19, the City of Peoria also shared their plans for the Peoria Sports Complex, home to the San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners.

“While health and safety are clearly at the top of the list of the most important aspects of our lives, baseball is a close second,” says Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat.

“We are excited to welcome the Mariners and the Padres back to their spring training home and I am proud to see that we have developed a plan that allows fans to safely enjoy America’s favorite pastime at the Peoria Sports Complex.”

The Peoria Sports Complex will host 1,960 fans, 16% of the total stadium capacity. To ensure MLB safety protocols, a seating pod system will be employed in the stadium that encourages physical distancing to allow households and immediate family members to sit together.

Tickets will be sold in “pods” of one to four tickets for the seating bowl. Berm

seating will be sold in pods of two, four or six tickets. Locations for the pods will be clearly marked and physically distanced from other pods. Fans who would like to attend a game can expect the following changes at Peoria Sports Complex (and likely other sports venues, too): • Facial masks will be required for everyone two years old and older throughout the stadium except when actively eating and drinking in their designated seats.

• Practices and Autograph Alley will be closed to the public.

• Hand-sanitizing stations throughout the ballpark.

• No season and group tickets available.

• The stadium will be a cashless facility, using credit or debit payments only at the ticket office and concession stands.

• Parking will be complimentary and tailgating will be prohibited.

• Employees will complete COVID-19 symptom screenings prior to their shifts.

• Some games may be shortened from the typical nine innings to seven or five innings, upon mutual agreement of both managers.

In addition to these changes, the Peoria Sports Complex will offer an engaging virtual fan experience for all spring training fans. Other venues are expected to do the same.

As of press time, The San Francisco Giants said in a statement that it will sell between 750-1,000 tickets for each game played at Scottsdale Stadium, which has a capacity of 12,000 fans. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs say they have received the OK from the City of Mesa, Maricopa County and the state to operate at 25% capacity for all games to be held at Sloan Park.

Players and team personnel are required to adhere to new rules set by MLB, which released its health and safety protocols for the 2021 season. Players will be required to wear face coverings at all times, with the only exception for players on the field or during pregame warmups. Additionally, mandatory fiveday at-home quarantine before reporting to spring training was expected, and players and other on-field personnel will continue to be tested at least every other day throughout the spring.

Regina Burgess and Alina Nelson both work for Cronkite News. myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

Flying Legends of Victory Tour Bring Iconic World War II Aircrafts to Deer Valley Airport Photos Courtesy of Airbase Arizona DO YOU WANT A CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE A LIVING HISTORY FLIGHT IN A FULLY RESTORED B-17, C-47 OR STEARMAN? The Commemorative Air Force, Airbase Arizona is bringing three of the most iconic planes from World War II to visit Phoenix Deer Valley Airport, March 19-21.

The B-17 Flying Fortress Sentimental Journey is one of only five currently flying in the world out of over 12,000 manufactured for combat during WWII – and is the leading exhibition warbird in The Flying Legends of Victory Tour conducted by CAF Airbase Arizona, a nonprofit flying museum. The Boeing B-17 was most famous for operations in Europe but was used in every theater of war from 1941-1945. B-17 cruise speed was about 160 miles per hour; maximum altitude was 36,000 ft. At high bombing altitudes in this unheated aircraft, extreme temperatures subjected many crew members to frostbite.

Sentimental Journey was originally manufactured and delivered to the U.S. Army Air Forces for war service in 1944 – too late for European service but flew missions in the Pacific Theater.

After the war, she flew for training, testing, and air-sea rescue missions and was eventually sold for surplus and used as a fire bomber. In 1978 the aircraft was purchased by a Commemorative Air Force (CAF) member and donated to the newly formed Arizona unit of the worldfamous CAF. She was meticulously restored and is today maintained in tip-top condition and operated by all-volunteer crews from the membership of CAF Airbase Arizona.

The C-47, called Old Number 30, had a distinguished combat history in World War II. It dropped British paratroopers and glider troops into Sicily and Greece. The aircraft participated in Special Operations missions in Yugoslavia helping Partisans to defeat the German occupation force. This plane evacuated Allied personnel from near the battlefield to hospitals in the rear as well as moving wounded Partisans out of Yugoslavia. The C-47 is a modified version of the Douglas DC-3 passenger airliner and was used as a corporate plane after WWII. She was then purchased by the “Wings of Flight Foundation” before arriving at Arizona CAF Museum.

The US Navy N2S-3 Stearman bi-plane, also known as a Kaydet, served as a primary military trainer in the 1930s and 1940s. A total of 8,584 were built in the United States and is one of the most recognized trainers of all time. The majority of pilots learned to fly in a Kaydet and were required to solo in this aircraft before receiving pilot wings.

The exhibition of Sentimental Journey, Old Number 30 and the Stearman, as part of the Flying Legends of Victory Tour, is hosted/ sponsored by Cutter Aviation. CAF Airbase Arizona is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation and is one of over 80 worldwide units of the Commemorative Air Force.

Cutter Aviation is located at 732 W. Deer Valley Road in Phoenix. The B-17 and C-47 aircraft will be open to the public for ground tours Friday and Saturday from 2–6 p.m. To schedule a ride, book online at azcaf.org or call 480-462-2992. myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 19

Education Peoria Resident Finds Dream Job with the Help of a Local Nonprofit

By Autumn Jarrett

P

eoria resident Christopher Allen has been attending ACCEL’s Adult Service Program since May 2011.

ACCEL is a nonprofit organization serving children and adults who have developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder, cognitive disabilities and behavioral disorders.

Allen first came to ACCEL in 2011, working in the t-shirt department within the Adult Service Program. There, he learned new core skills that would last long beyond his time printing and organizing shirts.

Once his inner salesman skills began to shine, Allen continued to adapt as he worked in ACCEL’s different departments.

Following his time in the T-shirt department, Allen spent the next couple of years outdoors where he would pick up and recycle trash before he found his true calling at ACCEL’s coffee shop in February 2014. In addition to his work at the coffee shop, for the last several years, he also worked at St. Mary’s Food Bank,

AASK and Mark’s Model Mart.

“I just love to do things that make others happy,” says Allen. “During my time in the coffee shop, I used sales pitches to encourage the sales of our bakery items – it worked more often than not.”

Throughout his time with ACCEL, Allen gained the confidence and skills that would propel him to chase his ultimate dream career: a monster truck curator at the International Monster Truck Museum & Hall of Fame in Auburn, Indiana.

“At ACCEL, I learned the different behaviors and skills of the workplace including money handling, communication skills and the importance of being on time and following directions,” says Allen. “ACCEL made me the person that I am today – hardworking and unstoppable.”

His family will be moving to Indiana soon so Allen can assume his new role at the museum.

“I will be giving tours, explaining the history, keeping the trucks and display cases clean, giving speeches and writing for the museum’s newsletter,” says Allen.

Allen credits his confidence to ACCEL and the staff that continued to lift him up during his time in their programs.

“Without ACCEL, I wouldn’t be giving speeches, tours or have these other skills,” he says. “And I am forever grateful to them for that.”

“ACCEL isn’t a one-size-fits-all,” he continues. “They customize treatment for all including treatment for people on all ranges of the [autism] spectrum, including those who are high on the spectrum like myself.”

Allen has also promised the ACCEL team a virtual tour of the International Monster Truck Museum & Hall of Fame. For more information about ACCEL and their programs, visit accel.org.

The Road to Success Starts at Deer Valley!

Join us for Upcoming Kindergarten Virtual and Drive-Thru Events For details: www.DVUSD.org/kindergarten

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J

ames Cook, a Liberty High School junior and member of Air Force Junior ROTC at Cactus High School, has received a scholarship to attend an accredited aviation university participating in a private pilot license training program this summer.

Cadet Cook is one of 230 Air Force Junior ROTC cadets around the world to receive the scholarship from Headquarters Air Force Junior ROTC, Maxwell Air Force Base, in Montgomery, Alabama. More than 1,340 cadets applied for the 230 scholarships. There are more than 120,000 high school students enrolled in Air Force Junior ROTC at almost 875 high schools in the U.S and overseas. The scholarship covers transportation, room and board, academics and flight hours required to potentially earn a private pilot license. The scholarship is valued at approximately $22,500.

The Flight Academy Scholarship Program is an Air Force-level initiative in collaboration with the commercial aviation industry to address the national civilian and military pilot shortage. The Flight Academy allows aspiring young aviators to get their private pilot’s certification, at no cost, during an eight-week summer course at partner universities. This incurs no military commitment while providing a college transcript. Those who participate in the program do not incur a military commitment to the Air Force or other branch of service, nor does completing the program guarantee acceptance into one of the military’s commissioning programs. myhyperlocalnews.com

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Solution on page 35.

Hello 22 • March 2021 • UPPER WESTSIDER

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Kids’ Corner HELPING STUDENTS THRIVE DURING TRYING TIMES LEADERSHIP SOCIETY OF ARIZONA OFFERS A SUMMER PROGRAM FOR TODAY’S TWEENS AND TEENS

By Michelle Talsma Everson

S

eventh through twelfth grades are years of big changes where young students go from tweens learning to juggle multiple classes to seniors making decisions on what to do post-graduation. During these formative years, while learning core academic subjects is important, learning soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, time management, and more, is also vital. Whether your student has been learning online this past year or in the classroom, chances are that they could benefit from some one-onone guidance and tips on how to thrive during even the most challenging times. This is why the Leadership Society of Arizona (LSA) was created.

Dr. Jacob Kashiwagi is the chairman of LSA. He shares that the LSA’s leadership model is based on 28 years of business management research, which commenced at Arizona State University (ASU).

His father, Dr. Dean Kashiwagi, and he taught skills originally intended for businesses and organizations to students at ASU.

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“We taught honors courses at ASU that took the business model of running an organization more efficiently and helped students to use those skills in their own lives,” Dr. Kashiwagi says.

“These skills included deductive logic and leadership and the students loved it. Classes were always full and often students’ grades and lives improved.”

This leadership model (known as “The Best Value Approach” business model by Dr. Dean Kashiwagi) has been developed through 2,000+ global projects valued at over $6.6 billion. LSA has adjusted this model for teens, parents, and teachers. They have supported over 2,300 students in seven years, according to the organization.

While teaching this model at ASU, two then-students, Jake Gunnoe, PhD, and Alfredo O. Rivera, PhD, received funding to take these same principles and create a way for them to help high school students from all different backgrounds. Through this new team, LSA was born.

“In college, I felt unprepared for the real world. I was stressed and lacked direction,” says Gunnoe.

“I co-founded LSA to help students find stability, direction, and confidence before they get to college.”

LSA is comprised of researchers, educators, and consultants. Since 2013, they have been developing tools and processes to improve the delivery of educational services. They use an industry-proven professional development model to support students, parents, teachers, and professional organizations. This summer, local students have the chance to learn these tools through LSA’s one-of-a-kind online summer program.

“We have found that stability, happiness, and success come from understanding leadership and social skills,” according to the organization. “But you cannot force teenagers to learn these principles. Students must learn how to apply them in their own lives and at their own pace.”

In this program, which uses Dr. Kashiwagi’s NoInfluence Method mentoring program, students meet four days a week for three weeks for fun and interactive activities that relate to their interests. Students work one-on-one with a certified life coach to set goals, form successful habits, and plan for their futures.

“The online summer program is very individual based; the instructor to student ratio is as high as 1:3,” says Dr. Kashiwagi. “This allows for more interaction time. The program is activity-based and flexible, and it’s perfect for students who, because of this, can practice socializing.”

SOME OF THE ONLINE SUMMER PROGRAM’S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: • Objective: Have fun and teach students principles of success that lead them to live happier lives.

• Timeline: 3 weeks, 4 days per week, 1 hour classes • Platform: They use a highly interactive online platform called Remo. It allows students to work in smaller groups. This allows for more activities, networking, and discussion.

• Individual Coaching: Each student works one-onone with a life coach every week.

• Additional Resources: Access to a library of 20 hours of additional lessons and material.

“Every day, students will meet in a virtual class to complete activities and team building. Each week, courses will focus on a specific topic proven to make professionals more successful,” according to LSA. “During one-on-one coaching calls, coaches will get to know their students and help them with what they want (e.g. develop hobbies, create routines, strengthen relationships with family, and overcome personal challenges).”

This course is for students ages 12 on up (junior high through high school) and, to help families during the pandemic, is available at a significantly lower rate than in years prior. For families who need the help, Dr. Kashiwagi shares that scholarships and financial help is available.

In addition to the summer program, LSA also offers workshops, free classes, an active YouTube channel, and even a free parents course online. They do this all while maintaining a zero operating budget as a nonprofit.

Registration for the online summer program is now available. To learn more, visit leadaz.org/summer.

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 23

America Gets a Green New Deal

COVID relief law provides additional tax credits to homeowners to pay for solar

By Michael O’Donnell

J

oe Biden is now the president of the United States and the Democrats now have a majority in both houses of Congress. Giving Americans a Green New Deal was front and center in the platform that the president and Democratic congressional candidates ran on to get elected, and they and the president’s administration are wasting no time in delivering on that promise.

In terms of ambition, the president’s call to address climate change is nothing short of JFK’s “moonshot,” his declaration that America would put a man on the moon by the end of the 1960s.The call to end the use of fossil fuels in the next 15 to 25 years is on par with that goal and perhaps more urgent to humanity.

Immediately following the inauguration, the president recommitted the United States to the Paris Climate Accord, a treaty meant to limit global warming by holding countries mutually responsible for drastically reducing their share of greenhouse-gas emissions. America’s participation in this global effort very likely will add significant costs to oil, gas, and coal. In addition, the Keystone XL Pipeline, a conduit meant to transport oil from Canada, was canceled.These measures will probably increase the price Americans pay for gasoline at the pump and for electricity in their homes.

The government’s plan to transition American homeowners from heating and cooling their homes with fossil fuels to doing so with renewable energy incorporates both carrots and sticks. The new COVID-19 relief bill passed by Congress in early January has significantly increased the federal tax credit that offsets the cost of home solar systems. Without that act of Congress, the federal subsidy for an average size home in the Phoenix area would have been thousands of dollars less this year and zero next year.

The provisions of the law will increase the tax credit homeowners get for solar by thousands of dollars. Most homes in APS’ territory that convert from fossil fuels to solar may receive between $7,000 and $18,000, depending on the size of the home and energy usage. The systems can be designed to reduce APS customers’ annual bill to $0 or even a negative total. The larger the system, the larger the federal government’s subsidy. Hence, the larger the system, the lower the APS bill (or the higher the payment to the homeowner).

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The stick is, obviously, the ever increasing cost of fossil-fuel-generated electricity, which will make solar power for homes more and more compelling.

It is basically the same strategy the government used to reduce the number of American tobacco smokers.While the warning label got people’s attention, it was the increase in the price of a pack of cigarettes, from 80 cents to $8 a pack, that really drove people to quit.

A no-money-down, financed home solar system typically incurs a monthly payment that’s $50 to $100 per month less than the amount they’re currently paying the utility company for the same electricity.

Mr. and Mrs. Jenson signed up for solar in early February.“We were very happy to see that the cost of the solar system and the monthly payment in the proposal we received in February were significantly lower than in the proposal we received in December before the COVID relief bill,” they say. “With the U.S. government making renewable energy a big priority, we know our utility costs will increase faster in the near future than it has in the past.We’re excited to use the incentives to lock in and lower our electricity costs and have our family be part of the solution to climate change.”

You may be surprised at the current cost of a solar system. The cost of solar panels have come down 70 percent in the last 10 years while electricity prices have continue to climb. When you add in the additional incentives provided in the COVID-19 relief legislation, you will experience a lower annual cost and see a profit in many cases of between $50,000 and $100,000 in the next 25 years by switching to solar. And this does not include the profit you will realize when you sell your house for a higher price because of the $0 electric bill, as compared to the price you would get if you had to sell it with a bill costing thousands of dollars per year and increasing annually If you would like to receive a free solar design customized to your house and your family’s usage,just call 623-562-9004 or visit greendeal.sunsolarsolutions.com.

Michael O’Donnell is vice president of sales and a partner at SunSolar Solutions, which is a local Arizona contractor and one of the largest solar sales and installation companies with over 7,000 customers.

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Business

The Value of Networking at Your Local Chamber of Commerce Events

By Veronica Christiansen, Peoria Chamber of Commerce

T

he Peoria Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of weekly events that are open to anyone to attend, not just its members. Here are several of our free events that get you out in the community and allow you to connect with local business leaders.

1. RIBBON CUTTINGS Anyone can attend a ribbon cutting for free and it is a great way to network with a new business and meet other leaders in your area. Typically, at any ribbon cutting, you will meet the owners, directors, CEOs, or presidents of organizations that you might not typically meet after the grand opening. Peoria Chamber of Commerce ribbon cuttings also strive to have leaders in our community and chamber members in attendance to support a new member.

2. BUSINESS ALLIANCE COMMITTEE MEETINGS The Business Alliance helps local business owners access Peoria Chamber resources, develop customized content, programs, initiatives and events that help businesses grow and prosper. These meetings happen every Monday at 4 p.m. on Zoom and are open for anyone to attend.

3. MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE The Military Affairs Committee serves the city of Peoria and the West Valley by assisting veteranowned businesses, active duty, reserve, and national guard service members, future military service

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members, veterans and their families. This is achieved by focusing on advocacy, outreach, mentorship, building relationships, transition and hiring programs, and encouraging community involvement and development. This group meets every fourth Wednesday of the month.

4. WOMEN 4 WOMEN NETWORKING GROUP Looking to connect with other women in business?

This group is a strong network of women who want to make a change in their community, be a support for each other, and be a voice for women-owned businesses. They meet every first and third Friday of the month both in person and on Zoom. It is free for Peoria Chamber members to attend or a small fee for non-members to attend.

VICE MAYOR

MICHAEL FINN

Whether you are a business owner that is struggling to expand your networking circle, is looking to ways to get out in the community, or is seeking to make a change within the Peoria business community, these free events could be your first step to doing just that!

It’s also a great way to see if an official membership might be right for you.

How do you make the most of attending our events?

Register early, be open, and talk to those around you.

Every meeting starts with a round of introductions so you will introduce and meet new contacts. Whether you are looking to meet people in person or over Zoom, we have a mix of both types of events.

Visit peoriachamber.com/events to learn more.

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UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 25

Home Grilling Tips for Your Best Barbecued Meats and Vegetables Contributed by BBQ Island

W

ho doesn’t love a good barbecue? Here are six tips to help you grill your meats and veggies to perfection.

1. PREP FOOD BEFOREHAND AND PREHEAT YOUR GRILL. This is one of the biggest mistakes grillers make when organizing BBQs. Prepare your food and grill before your guests arrive. Don’t forget to preheat your griller for almost 10-15 minutes before adding your food. With all your burners on high, the temperature under the lid should reach 500 degrees Fahrenheit to loosen any food previously stuck onto the grill and later brush it off with ease.

2. SEASONING AND MARINATING IS THE KEY. Whether you are grilling veggies or meat, seasoning and marinating form the crux of the grilled foods. Big, thick

meats need almost double the seasoning as you think they would need. And marinating the meat keeps it moist and tender while it is still being grilled. The same goes for veggies as well.

3. DON’T SQUEEZE OR FLATTEN YOUR MEATS. We know that the sound of that sizzling flame when pressing your burger patties or chicken is tempting. But on squeezing, you’re squeezing the flavor and moisture out of it as it’s the juicy flavor of the fat that causes that flame to burst!

4. DON’T UNCOVER THE LID TO CHECK TEMPERATURE REPEATEDLY. Grilling on a backyard griller means going low and slow. Check at least after an hour or so to mop your meat with a sauce and check temperature via the thermometer. Food continues to cook in the heat even after removing from the flame off the grill. So remove it before it has reached its stage of complete done-

ness. This will help it cook in its own heat without being over-cooked. This also lets the juices redistribute themselves through the meat.

5. A SPARE SPRAY BOTTLE FOR FLARE-UPS. Flames from your backyard griller’s grate can charge your food unpleasantly. So keep a water-filled spray bottle handy with you to dampen those flareups without interfering with the heat.

6. GO EASY ON VEGGIES. BBQ nights are not just about meats, but veggies as well. Lightly coat your veggies with olive oil before grilling to avoid them drying out or sticking to the grate. You could also marinate your veggies in the same marinade as that of your meats for that added saucy and rustic flavor.

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Home

Spring Cleaning Tips and Tricks from Local Experts ith spring just around the corner, it is a great time open the windows, watch the flowers bloom and, of course, start your spring cleaning. Although this may seem like a daunting task, cleaning does not have to be such a chore.

don’t know what to grab. Tapia says to get a Magic Eraser, especially if you have little ones who like to draw on the wall. Another staple at Proficient Shield, LLC is a pumice scouring stone, which helps remove stubborn lime scale toilet rings and stains. These two items are affordable and will make cleaning a breeze.

Samuel Tapia, owner of Proficient Shield, LLC, says there are three simple steps to cleaning your house: don’t forget about little spaces, stay on top of it, and invest in a few staple cleaning products.

Lisa Marshman, with Johnson’s Home Cleaning, has been cleaning Valley homes for over 25 years. She happily shares some great tips about how to make spring cleaning more efficient.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT LITTLE SPACES When cleaning a house, people often focus on big spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms or the kitchen. While that’s great, there are a ton of little spaces that get neglected in the process. Some of these areas include celling fans and light fixtures. Living in Arizona, celling fans accumulate a lot of dust, but it goes unnoticed since the fans are almost always in motion. Make sure to give these a good dusting at least once a month. Light fixtures also get dusty and grimy. Give lightbulbs a quick cleaning to brighten up the room and make a huge difference.

CLEAN TOP TO BOTTOM “Start cleaning the highest areas in the home first and work your way down. This will help cover all spots and prioritize the areas that collect the most dust and dirt,” says Marshman.

By Emma Wolff

W

STAY ON TOP OF IT Tapia explains, “Do a deep clean once a year; spring is a perfect time for this.

From there, if you clean weekly, biweekly or monthly it will not be as big of an undertaking. When cleaning the first time, it may take longer but the simple upkeep will make your life so much easier.”

INVEST IN A FEW STAPLE CLEANING PRODUCTS The options in the cleaning aisle can be overwhelming, especially when you

ORGANIZE AND DECLUTTER Marshman tells her clients to start by removing all the odds and ends that accumulate in a house. Examples include mail that needs to be tossed, bills that needs to be paid, shoes that are left in odd places. “It is hard to start the deep cleaning process when there is so much stuff in the way,” she says.

“Use springtime as an opportunity to organize and declutter. Make sure to pack away winter clothes and thick blankets to make more room.

We definitely don’t need those in the summer.”

And, if spring cleaning seems like an overwhelming task to take on, don’t hesitate to call in the pros for help. To learn more, visit proficientshieldllc.com or johnsonscleaningservices.com.

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Real Estate

Products to Consider for a Tech-Enabled Home

H

pausal women to thermally incompatible couples, Outlast® technology is tested and proven to alleviate spikes in skin temperature that cause sleep disturbances.”

These sheets are meant to proactively manage heat from the body, according to the company.

Any home can become tech-enabled to some extent. You can add an Amazon Echo device or a smart plug that can be used from your phone. Or you can go all out and have your home completely wired to be a smart capable home completely automated by voice or wireless adaptor of some sort.

WATER SAVING DISHWASHER KitchenAid’s Architect Series II dishwasher with AquaSense ($1,749) saves some of the water from the previous cycle and uses it as a pre-rinse on your dishes.

Living in the desert it is crucial to always think about the future of our water supply. This is of the coolest dishwashers I have seen, and it isn’t a new model. Find it at KitchenAid.com.

By Frank May, Realtor

aving a tech-enabled home isn’t as much of a luxury as it is becoming a necessity in 2021. We can attribute a large part of this to the pandemic and how it transformed the living situation for most of us in the blink of an eye.

With this in mind, I wanted to share with you some of the most innovative tech items that you can add to your home right now.

COOL SHEETS Outlast sheets (from $150) are seriously cool. “Outlast® technology proactively manages heat and moisture to give a better, more comfortable night’s sleep,” according to Outlast.com. “From meno-

ANTIMICROBIAL TILES AND FLOORS This was a first for me! TOTO’s Hydrotect ceramic tiles are “the product of an agreement between the Casalgrande Padana research centre and TOTO, the industry leader in sanitary products. TOTO are pioneers of HYDROTECH® photocatalytic technology, which makes use of the antibacterial properties of titanium dioxide, a natural material that gives off

no harmful emissions and, in fact, significantly reduces the amount of harmful substances in the air in both indoor and outdoor spaces, thus making the atmosphere healthier and removing bad odors.”

Learn more at CasalgrandePadana.com.

Utilizing a similar photocatalytic titanium-dioxide coating that works like a plant, breaking down volatile organic compounds, viruses, molds, and bacteria, the Lauzon Pure Genius hardwood flooring can do the work of up to three trees in a 1,300 square foot room. Learn more at lauzonflooring.com.

THERMAL LEAK DETECTORS Thermal leak detectors help you detect leaks and fix the insulation in your home.

According to TinyHouseBigIdeas.com, the best thermal leak detection device is the BLACK + DECKER TLD100. They love it because it’s a no-frills leak detector that has the solid branding of BLACK + DECKER. With a price tag of around $50 (I found it for less on Amazon), this is a great tool to have around your home.

Checking for thermal leaks can make a huge impact on your electric bill and

prevent those pinhole leaks in your pipes from becoming a big deal by the time you finally see them reaching the surface of your wall.

I hope I have given you some fun ideas to up the tech in your home and not your average plug or wireless lightbulb that we are all familiar with today. If you do want to know more about those items, give me a call or shoot me an email and we can discuss how to enable your home in a tech-savvy way and take advantage of the savings you will incur when using them. I can be reached at 623-203-1800 or Frank@mayteam.com.

Frank May grew up in the Valley, graduating from Northwest Christian School and NAU. He is a real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty and has been helping both buyers and sellers for 18 years. Frank May is also a Dave Ramsey Endorsed Local Provider.

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SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES. MAKE A BIG IMPACT. myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 31

Getaway

Awaken a New Sense of Spirit at

CIVANA

WELLNESS WELLNESS RESORT RESORT & & SPA SPA

N

estled just outside of Scottsdale, CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa is a playground of wellbeing. A destination wellness resort – recently ranked #3 on Travel + Leisure’s 2020 World’s Best Awards list for “Top 15 Domestic Spas” – invites guests to reconnect and reinvigorate their senses in places of natural beauty, with personalized wellness experiences and empathetic hospitality.

Centered around a holistic approach to wellbeing, CIVANA’s healing spa treatments, yoga, meditation, fitness classes, and inventive culinary experiences focus on a positive change that brings greater happiness, both physically and mentally. These offerings include a curated menu of spa treatments to help restore the body back to a natural state of balance, along with 8-10 wellness classes per day that touch on all four domains of wellbeing: physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental.

EMBRACING NATURE’S PLAYGROUND: REIMAGINED WELLNESS PROGRAMMING CIVANA has reimagined its signature wellness offerings to take greater advantage of nature’s inherent capacity for self-healing; from morning mediation in the rose garden, to twice daily desert hikes (weather permitting), to outdoor sunset spin classes, to sound bowl and star gazing sessions on the yoga lawn (all socially distanced), and more.

32 • March 2021 • UPPER WESTSIDER

ENHANCED DINING AND NOURISHMENT EXPERIENCES Exciting, colorful, flavorful, and inventive are the words shaping CIVANA’s re-thought culinary offerings led by new Executive Chef Scott Winegard. Winegard, who spent years at buzzy plant-based restaurant group Matthew Kenney Cuisine, has taken over the CIVANA culinary experience with entirely new hyper-seasonal offerings at Seed, CIVANA’s cafe and specialty market open for breakfast and lunch, along with Terras, the resort’s signature dinner destination that offers a delightfully fresh and modern take on regionally inspired cuisine.

REINVENTED RESTORATIVE SPA TREATMENTS CIVANA’s healing spa provides the highest level of service for its guests, offering a curated menu of restorative treatments and services. The Spa is currently staggering 60- and 90-minute treatments and limiting occupancy to further ensure the safety and wellbeing of guests and team members. Guests continue to have access to the resort’s signature Aqua Therapy Circuit, a journey through waters of varying temperatures in the European-designed Knepp hot/cold wading pool and Tepidarium therapeutic soaking pool. Access to the Aqua Therapy Circuit will be available by appointment only and limited to a 30-minute session per guest. The Spa’s saltwater lap pool along with its relaxation lounge will continue to

be accessible to guests receiving treatments.

A curated menu of light bites and refreshments will be available for poolside delivery.

CHOPRA WHOLE HEALTH RETREAT LANDS AT CIVANA CIVANA guests will now have access to new classes and offerings inspired by the lifestyle teachings of Deepak Chopra and Team, including Ayurvedic Attunement – an experiential workshop focused on the six most important pillars of health and practical tools for leading a healthy and happy life.

Chopra had chosen CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa as its new home for all Chopra Whole Health retreats.

SPECIAL OFFERS A world away, yet close to home. A special offer for locals, Arizona residents can enjoy 20% off a CIVANA wellness staycation. Savor healthy cuisine and restore your body with the most innovative spa treatments in the world.Experience a daily schedule of complimentary wellness activities including twice daily hikes, yoga, meditation, fitness, outdoor adventures, and inspiring wellness talks – the choices are endless and tailored to your intentions.

CIVANA is located at 37220 Mule Train Road in Carefree. For more information on special offers, wellness experiences, outdoor adventure activities, culinary delights, and spa offerings visit civana.com/locallove.

myhyperlocalnews.com

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UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 33

Entertainment THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE DOWNRIGHT UGLY

The films of this year’s Sundance Film Festival soon to be on a screen near you?

BY A.D. BEAL

34 • March 2021 • UPPER WESTSIDER

Censor: Censor reminded me a lot of the Swedish film Evil Ed, and that’s not a bad thing. While it may lean a bit too hard into the ambiguous nature, the lead performance by Niamh Algar makes you buy into the unnerving feeling emanating from the world created by the story. Of the films I previewed at the festival, Censor is one of the most impressive in terms of its technique, especially with the production design and editing. The film almost perfectly recaptures the style and look of old 70s and 80s horror films that it tributes. It could have gone a bit further with how it handles the feelings of guilt and the line between fiction and reality, but those shortcomings don’t in any way ruin the film for me.

On The Count Of Three: This film could have easily gone sideways with such a tricky subject matter.

Fortunately, Jerrod Carmichael, one of the festival’s major actor-to-director debuts, handles it masterfully. He treats the subject of mental illness and depression with the care they deserve while also bolstering the script’s clever usage of dark comedy. Carmichael and his co-star Christopher Abbott show us believable performances and demonstrate what truly great chemistry can do for a film. On The Count of Three all comes together for a sincere and brutally honest story that works.

Mass: For nearly two hours, director Fran Kranz makes a conversation between two couples feel more intense than most action movies.

The lead actors of Mass (Jason Isaacs, Martha Plimpton, Ann Downd and Reed Birney) demand your attention throughout the film by conveying uncomfortable feelings and grief in ways that make you feel as if you are part of the group. Kranz continues to reel us in by showing off his behind the camera talents, bringing you in and giving you your own seat at the table.

This film keeps a steady pace, and the writing has some truly devastating dialogue. Mass is a wonderful example of a one-location set film using all of its limits to their fullest potential.

The Sparks Brothers: If you’re a fan of both Sparks and Edgar Wright, you’ll more than likely enjoy this latest collaboration, The Sparks Brothers.

Creating a story that is far more entertaining to watch than your usual talking heads documentary, the duo’s stories are likable, and their creative process keeps you entranced throughout the film. If there is one issue, it’s that the documentary doesn’t have much in terms of conflict. The Sparks Brothers is a mellow and overall good film for newcomers or longtime fans.

To find out the hot new movies coming to a streaming service near you in March, visit us online at myhyperlocalnews.com.

myhyperlocalnews.com

Bites Your Guide to Local Dining CANTINA GUEROS

ADDRESS: 25315 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria PHONE: 623-440-3680 CUISINE TYPE: Mexican Peoria’s newest full service Mexican concept for Westside Concepts. Enjoy the same fantastic service and food you’re used to from us in a new, exciting environment.

We take Abuela’s traditional recipes and give them a modern twist! We refuse to compromise on quality in our restaurant. That’s why we source our fresh ingredients locally. No matter what time of year, you can be sure you’re eating the best of the season.

www.CantinaGueros.com HAYMAKER

ADDRESS: 24762 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria PHONE: 623-566-1515 CUISINE TYPE: Breakfast and Burgers Our family has been serving up the best burgers and breakfast since 2013! We use only the best, freshest 100% Angus chuck and don’t forget about our house BBQ sauce, slow cooked ribs, Mama’s meatloaf and the most tender pulled pork around. For breakfast we have traditional favorites but also specialties like our Haymaker Benedict and Pulled Pork Skillet. Home recipes and quality are what we pride ourselves on.

www.HaymakerAZ.com

JOJO’S PIZZA & FAMILY RESTAURANT

ADDRESS: 23425 N. 39th Drive, Glendale PHONE: 623-516-7770 CUISINE TYPE: Pizza For over 15 years, JoJo’s Pizza and Family Restaurant has been committed to making delicious Italian food. Our pizza starts with homemade pizza dough, made fresh daily.

We then add our homemade pizza sauce, high-quality mozzarella cheese, and your choice of over 20 fresh cut toppings, resulting in a tasty New York style pizza.

www.JoJos-Pizza.com

CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 17

THE SOCIAL ON 83RD

ADDRESS: 8350 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria PHONE: 623-486-4343 CUISINE TYPE: American Great food. Great drinks. Great people. When you are looking for a fun, friendly night out on the town, you go to The Social. Whether it’s our amazing patio and backyard, the best cocktails in P83, or even our seasonal fresh menu, The Social is the place to see and be seen in Peoria!

www.TheSocialAZ.us THE LINKS NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL

ADDRESS: 18823 Country Club Pkwy., Peoria PHONE: 623-561-1681 CUISINE TYPE: American With change all around us, The Links is truly your neighborhood grill and we are offering takeout. We have changed our menu slightly due to product availability...

So, welcome to the Anti-Virus Menu! We are still serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Have a hankering for small plates? Our appetizers are the best in the business. Call or order online. We will have it ready when you get here! We are also available for catering.

www.TheLinksGrill.com

SALA THAI RESTAURANT

ADDRESS: 8278 W. Lake Pleasant Pkwy., #105, Peoria PHONE: 623-476-5877 CUISINE TYPE: Thai Sala Thai Restaurant brings Thailand to you. With our infusion of the sweet and savory, you’re sure to find a dish that you’ll love. We start with only the freshest ingredients to stir fry delicious melodies of tastes and colors that are sure to delight the senses. Now open seven days a week!

www.SalaThaiAZ.com

SUDOKU ANSWER from page 22

LAKESIDE BAR & GRILL

ADDRESS: 9980 W. Happy Valley Pkwy., Ste. #1101, Peoria PHONE: 623-566-1470 CUISINE TYPE: American & Southwest Lakeside Bar & Grill has been a NW Valley favorite for almost 12 years. Lakeside offers a carry out menu of 1/2lb. burgers, family-style meals, their famous fish fry, and more. Growlers of craft beer and margaritas, plus bottles of wine and beer are also available to go.

New online ordering makes it convenient to enjoy your favorites. Door Dash and Postmates delivery is available.

www.LakesideBarAndGrillAZ.com myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • March 2021 • 35

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