The Upper Westsider

YOUR HYPERLOCAL NEWS SOURCE

*********ECRWSSEDDM**** POSTAL CUSTOMER

PRST STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID PHOENIX, AZ PERMIT NO.2194

UPPER WESTSIDER August 2022

Vol. 3 • No. 6

FREE

READ STORY ON PAGE 20

WYMAN PLUMBING & MECHANICAL A family-owned, community-oriented business ready to serve Scottsdale

PHOTO BY TAWN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

In This Issue City News.................................................... 4-17 Dining.............................................................. 19 Education........................................................ 22 Kids Corner................................................ 23-24

Health......................................................... 25-27 Neighbors....................................................... 28 Real Estate...................................................... 29 Happenings............................................... 30-31

myhyperlocalnews.com

Entertainment ............................................... 32 Puzzles....................................................... 34-35 Business Directory.................................... 36-37 Getaway.......................................................... 38

ACC Votes

August 31 Is Final Deadline for APS Customers

By Erick O’Donnell As we pointed out in our last column, it’s a lot easier for members of a community to solve a problem when they have caring public servants on their side. And we’ll give credit where it’s due: officials in this state give plenty of verbal support to the idea of leaving unreliable, dirty, increasingly expensive fossil fuels behind and, in their place, powering Arizona with its own most abundant natural resource—the sun’s energy.

But actions speak louder than words, and earlier this month, the state’s utility regulators had a chance to show, loud and clear, just how committed they are to fostering the growth of Arizona’s grassroots transition to clean power. Unfortunately, the Arizona Corporation Commission voted to approve APS’s application to reduce the “buyback amount,” which is the per-unit price it pays solar-system owners for the surplus electricity they feed back to the grid. (The reduction—a 10% drop in the price that APS pays a homeowner for each kilowatt-hour put back into the grid— will become effective for new system purchasers who apply for a grid connection after August 31.)

Just so we’re clear about the stakes involved here, this is a change that could push rooftop solar further away from being financially viable for Arizona families. For that reason, the new buyback rate, like any other key public policy, should meet two basic criteria: logical justification and fairness. It fails to pass either test.

Beginning in September, APS will pay solar customers less for their electricity at the same time it’s charging customers a newly hiked rate. The commission approved a rate increase in May that allows APS to charge 30 cents per kilowatt-hour ($0.30 per kWh) during peak power usage, a price that will dwarf what new solar customers will get by a ratio of more than 3½. It defies common sense to suggest that the ever-widening gap between the power company’s returns and those of its customers reflects the economic or technical needs of our energy system.

“It is very difficult to imagine an argument that would explain how a commodity could be worth $.30 on one side of the meter and only worth $.084 on the other side of the meter,” wrote Michael O’Donnell, a partner at Peoria-based SunSolar Solutions, in a letter to the commission. “Nor is it reasonable that the same commodity would be going up 26 percent on

one side and down 10 percent on the other.”

O’Donnell added: “This is especially egregious when you consider that APS has been granted a monopoly, while the consumer who invests in a renewable power plant is subject to a monopsony.” (A monopsony is the sole purchaser of a commodity in a given market.)

This latest decision comes on the heels of a series of similar reductions over the past five years, which have strained the financial viability of rooftop solar. Before the commission eliminated net metering in 2017 (under which solar households sold their electricity for the same price at which they purchased it), solar customers needed to produce 100 percent of their annual consumption to end up with a monthly bill under $20.

Subsequent rate reductions then increased that ratio to where it stands today, at approximately 140 percent, necessitating bigger systems and greater investment costs. If this latest reduction is approved, that ratio will further swell to 150 percent. (And money isn’t even the only constraint— roof space, unlike the sun’s energy itself, is not free or unlimited.)

That burden cannot increase indefinitely without, at some point, turning a solar system into a net financial liability for a family rather than an asset.

Val Berechet, owner of SunSolar Solutions, made that point directly to the commission during a public hearing earlier this month.

“I think there is going to be a tipping point, where it’s not going to make sense any longer,” Berechet told the commissioners. “And I really think we’re getting to that point.”

The change makes even less sense considering solar power’s dramatically lower cost in terms of natural resources. As former commissioner Bob Burns has pointed out, each solar system saves millions of gallons of water that would otherwise be consumed by a power plant—in the middle of a drought-stricken desert state. Furthermore, millions of people across the world right now are experiencing a heat wave that is unprecedented in its severity and geographical extent, a fact that should underscore the urgency of switching to non-polluting energy sources—fast.

It’s getting increasingly urgent for the whole world to switch, and the same pattern applies for every household as well. If you’re ready to secure energy independence and security (for both your family and for your country), then call SunSolar Solutions today at 623-562-9009 to have a design prepared for your home free of charge.

APS DEADLINE 08/31/22

HOMEOWNERS MUST ACT NOW! 2 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

myhyperlocalnews.com

CONNECT WITH

UPPER WESTSIDER Get In Touch: 2550 W. Union Hills Drive, Ste. 350-9433 Phoenix, AZ 85027 888-313-7916 facebook.com/TheUpperWestsider Advertising and Submissions: Contact the marketing department by phone at 888-313-7916 or email us at advertising@egpublishing.com.

Press release submissions and event listings are always welcomed at news@egpublishing.com.

Staff: EG Publishing is a local, family-owned company.

Natasha & Brian Beal / Publishers Sondra Barr / Editor Shannon Carrillo / Production & Design Erica Odello / Ad Design Notes: This publication is offered free of charge in an effort to keep our neighbors informed, as well as to support the local business owners who make up our community. Without their support, this publication would not exist.

Please support their business, and let them know you saw them in this newspaper.

Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us.

In a challenging market we offer

years of experience

in negotiating the selling and purchasing of your home.

Call me today.

I will help you discover your best options!

BUY A HOME Tell me your home search criteria and I’ll get to work immediately. Together, we’ll find your next dream home.

“

myhyperlocalnews.com This newspaper is recyclable, biodegradable and contains recycled materials.

Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be printed or reproduced without the publication’s permission. EG Publishing assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material.

LINDA BOOKER

CRS, GRI, CDPE, CLHMS

32 Years Real Estate Experience

myhyperlocalnews.com

SELL YOUR HOME If you’re interested in selling your home, I will use my extensive experience in real estate to find the best buyer.

MARKET ANALYSIS What to know what you home is worth? I can provide you with comparable sale information for your neighborhood.

My wife and I have had Linda as our agent on five home transactions now. (Purchased 3 and sold 2) I couldn’t imagine finding an agent that could make the home buying or selling process easier from start to finish. Linda’s assistant Tina is also awesome to work with. Great team to work with!!!”

-Keith C

Glendale, AZ 85308

”

www.LindaBooker.com | 602-350-0727 @lindabookerrealtyonegroup linda@lindabooker.com T $% 5 UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 3

City News

Peoria 411: The Latest Local News You Need to Know PEORIA IMPLEMENTS STAGE 1 OF DROUGHT MANAGEMENT PLAN

• Flag football – Games on Friday nights, beginning Fri., Oct. 14.

• Machine pitch baseball, soccer, t-ball, and volleyball – Games on Saturdays starting Sat., Oct. 15.

PEORIA COMMUNITY CENTER RECEIVES ACCESSIBLE FITNESS EQUIPMENT

To register or for more information, visit peoriaaz.gov/ youthsports.

PEORIA FIREFIGHTER CHARITIES HOSTS DRIVETHRU BACKPACK EVENT

The Peoria Community Center has received five new pieces of accessible exercise equipment including two Sci-Fit Recumbent Steppers, a Sci-Fit Pro 2 (Recumbent Cycle / Upper Body Ergometer), a Concept 2 Rowing Ergometer and a Life Fitness Elliptical. The recumbent steppers and cycle are step-through designs. This makes it easier for anyone, regardless of ability, to step in and take a seat. These machines also feature removable seats and ramped platforms. The fitness equipment includes technology that allows wheelchair users to connect to their various assistive devices. The community center also retained a rower and elliptical for residents who are able and looking for a more intense cardio workout.

In recognition of ongoing regional and statewide discussions related to the Colorado River shortage, the city of Peoria has declared Stage 1 Water Watch of the Drought Management Plan to raise awareness and encourage voluntary reduction measures. Within Stage 1, the city will be reducing municipal water use at city facilities and operations by at least 5%. Thanks to Peoria’s diverse water portfolio and continued investment in water conservation programs, there is no immediate impact to the city’s ability to deliver water and, currently, there are no mandatory water restrictions. To learn more about Peoria’s water supply, conservation efforts, and rebate programs, visit peoriaaz.gov/government/departments/waterservices/water-supply/drought-preparation.

REGISTER FOR FALL SPORTS THROUGH AUG. 24

Early Registration for fall sports runs through Aug. 24, or until the league reaches maximum capacity. The early registration fee is $80 for residents and $110 for non-residents. The fall sports include: 4 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

Back to school time is quickly approaching. Join the Peoria Firefighters Charities as they help students prepare for the school year with the second annual drive-thru backpack event on Sat., Aug. 6. The event will take place at the Peoria Sports Complex located at 16101 N. 83rd Ave. The backpack drive begins at 8 a.m. and will continue until supplies last. The backpacks and supplies are available for students in kindergarten through 12th grade and students must be present to receive a backpack. For more information, visit pffc.org.

BECOME A PEORIA JUNIOR RANGER Become a Junior Ranger with the city of Peoria! Children are encouraged to explore Peoria parks and trails, while completing all the activities in the Junior Ranger Activity Book. The book is available for download at peoriaaz.gov/ recreation or at the Rio Vista Recreation Center and Sunrise Mountain Library.

Once the book is complete, bring it to the Ranger’s Station at Paloma Community Park on the first Saturday of the month or Rio Vista Recreation Center on the third Saturday of the month. myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

Learn About Peoria Bus Routes DID YOU KNOW THAT SEVERAL FIXED BUS ROUTES SERVICE PEORIA? Peoria’s Transit Division oversees all public transit services, including the bus service, Dial-a-Ride, and Americans with Disabilities service, travel reduction and clean air programs, and the POGO Destinations local bus route.

The following information is for bus services:

• Did you know there are five bus routes serving Peoria that provide connections to locations throughout the Valley? Route 83 (83rd Ave.), Route 138 (Thunderbird Rd.), Route 106 (Peoria Ave.), Route 67 (67th Ave.), and Route 170 (Bell Rd.).

• Bus fares are cheaper than a gallon of gas. A full-day pass is $4 and one ride is $2. Discounts of 50% are available to seniors ages 65 and older, youth ages 6-18, and persons with a disability or who have a Medicare card. Children 5 years old and younger ride free.

• All buses provide accessibility through

a lift or ramp and wheelchair tie-down and priority seating for persons with disabilities.

• Take your bike with you. All buses have bicycle racks.

For more information, visit peoriaaz.gov/ government/departments/public-worksand-utilities/transportation.

Arrowhead Towne Center Welcomes First-to-Market Large-Format Entertainment Concept Photo Courtesy of Round1 Bowling & Amusement Arrowhead Towne Center announced a major large-format entertainment company has selected its property for a new location.

Round1 Bowling & Amusement will open at Arrowhead Towne Center, complete with their innovative Sports Challenge “SpoCha” included. Spo-Cha is a concept where customers can experience a variety of sports and entertainment-like activities for a single fixed price for a single day.

This is Round1 Bowling & Amusement’s second location in Arizona, first to the Greater Metro Phoenix market, and the first with dual Spo-Cha concept in the state. It’s slated to open in the spring of 2024. myhyperlocalnews.com

Round1 Bowling & Amusement is a multientertainment facility offering bowling, arcade games, billiards, karaoke, ping pong, darts, and other entertainment-like activities in an indoor facility complex.

The concept was started in Japan in 1980 by Masahiko Sugino and has 100 locations there.

In 2010, the company opened its first U.S. location in California and now has over 50 locations across the U.S. opened or planning to open.

In addition to Round1 Bowling and Amusement, Arrowhead Towne Center is home to Apple, Macy’s, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Dick’s Sporting Goods, H&M, Sephora, Coach, Urban Outfitters, LEGO and many more, including a food court. For more information, visit arrowheadtownecenter.com.

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 5

City News

Floating Obstacle Course Now Open at Centennial Pool NEW THIS YEAR TO CENTENNIAL POOL, LOCATED AT 8081 W. ACOMA DRIVE, IS AN OBSTACLE COURSE. The floating obstacle course is open on weekends during open swim times from noon to 4 p.m. Open swim is $2 for children ages 2-17 and $4 for adults. The obstacle course is open to anyone ages 4 and up with a signed waiver.

For more information, visit peoriaaz.gov/ aquatics.

UNLIMITED DRINKING WATER as low as $17/month!

DID YOU KNOW?

70% of American Households regularly consume bottled water for their drinking water needs.

Most municipalities add chemicals such as fluoride, chlorine and chloramines to treated water to help protect your teeth and to keep the water free of harmful bacteria on its way to your tap.

Call Today 480-933-2387 • Ecowateraz.com 112 W Julie Dr Tempe, AZ 85283

Call by AUGUST 31 and receive 15% OFF of a Reverse Osmosis System 6 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

myhyperlocalnews.com

City News Heat Relief is Available in Peoria PEORIA IS PARTNERING WITH THE MARICOPA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS (MAG) TO KICK OFF THE HEAT RELIEF REGIONAL NETWORK.

Sunrise Mountain Library (21109 N. 98th Ave.) Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Friday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Peoria cooling center and hydration station locations are open Monday through Saturday until Sept. 30. These stations are self-service and inside the following city buildings.

Rio Vista Recreation Center (8866 W. Thunderbird Rd.) Monday – Friday: 5 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

COOLING CENTERS Peoria Community Center (8335 W. Jefferson St.) Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Peoria Main Library (8463 W. Monroe St.) Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Friday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

HYDRATION STATIONS Peoria City Hall (8401 W. Monroe St.) Monday – Thursday: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday – Sunday: Closed Peoria Development and Community Services Building (9875 N. 85th Ave.) Monday – Thursday: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday – Sunday: Closed Find heat tips, information, and cooling resources at heataz.com

J O H N S O N ’S C L E A N I N G THE TOTAL CLEANING SPECIALIST! RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Have you given up on cleaning your house, and would like to see it emerge from under the dirt again?

We’re there for you. Looking for a daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or yearly service that you can trust?

Our staff is prompt, courteous, and friendly. We understand what it takes to keep your home thoroughly clean.

$15 O F F

YOUR FIRST CLEANING WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD! NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY

myhyperlocalnews.com

LOOK NO FURTHER THAN JOHNSON’S CLEANING  THE ONLY SERVICE YOU WILL NEED TO STAY DIRTFREE AND SATISFIED!

AND, YES, WE DO WINDOWS!

6025691077 • WWW.JOHNSONSCLEANINGSERVICES.COM UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 7

City News

Peoria Police Launch New Interactive Incident Map

IN EFFORTS TO PROVIDE MORE MEANINGFUL AND TRANSPARENT INFORMATION TO THE COMMUNITY, THE PEORIA POLICE DEPARTMENT LAUNCHED AN INTERACTIVE POLICE INCIDENT MAP WITH THE HELP OF CITY INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY STAFF. The Police Incident Map represents a majority of reported police incidents over the past 180 days. In addition to seeing police

8 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

incidents, the map provides the community the ability to filter information so residents can view their particular neighborhood or area of interest. Another feature is the ability for a citizen to submit a tip, should they have information regarding a particular crime.

The incident map is available to the public and can be found at peoriaaz.gov/government/departments/police/onlineservices-and-information/police-incident-map.

myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

Peoria Resident JoLou Trujillo-Ottino Joins Delta Dental of Arizona’s Leadership Team DELTA DENTAL OF ARIZONA, CELEBRATING ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY THROUGHOUT 2022, IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE PEORIA RESIDENT JOLOU TRUJILLO-OTTINO HAS JOINED THE DENTAL INSURER’S LEADERSHIP TEAM AS ITS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT. In her role, Trujillo-Ottino will identify and implement strategic business development opportunities as well as provide directional oversight of the sales and group services teams. Trujillo-Ottino is relocated to the Phoenix area––settling in Peoria––from Albuquerque, where she served as a key member of Delta Dental of New Mexico’s leadership team since 2016. Most recently, she served as vice president of business development managing sales and account management, group administration,

marketing and communications, government relations, and corporate and community giving. Prior to joining Delta Dental of New Mexico, Trujillo-Ottino owned and operated her own business, a promotional advertising company, for more than 20 years.

A dedicated servant leader, TrujilloOttino has served on several community and civic boards, including the American Heart Association of New Mexico, Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance, Special Olympics of New Mexico, and State of New Mexico Commission on Higher Education. In 2019, Trujillo-Ottino was named a New Mexico Woman of Influence and in 2015 a Laureate in the New Mexico Business Hall of Fame for both her business acumen and commitment to giving back.

“JoLou’s experience with Delta Dental of New Mexico, along with her proven track record of expanding business coverage in an increasingly changing landscape while overseeing strategic and financial planning, advanced market analysis, customer acquisition and service are tremendous assets,” says Michael Jones, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Arizona. “These assets, coupled with her dedication to serving the community, make her uniquely qualified for this position and we are delighted to welcome her to the team.”

She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration and Latin American studies from the University of New Mexico and has completed a series of programs within the Harvard Business School Executive Education curriculum, including Healthcare Economics,

JoLou Trujillo-Ottino

Financial Accounting, Economics for Managers, Business Analytics and Building and Sustaining Competitive Advantage.

NEW MEMBER ENROLLMENT SPECIALS Specialized equipment and fitness training for individuals in wheelchairs, those with limited motion, and those who are differently abled so they can achieve their health and wellness goals.

NOW OPEN SIGN UP TODAY On the Surprise Campus of the Nonprofit Benevilla 16752 N Greasewood St., Surprise, AZ, 85378 For more information visit: BenefitnessGym.org

• CAREGIVER “RETREAT” & RESOURCES ONSITE • “ROCK STEADY” BOXING CLASSES • PERSONALIZED ASSESSMENTS & GOALS • SPECIALIZED ONE-ON-ONE TRAINING • ADAPTIVE GROUP FITNESS CLASSES Located on the Benevilla Main Campus 16752 N. Greasewood St., Surprise, AZ, 85378

CALL (623) 584-0065 FOR EARLY REGISTRATION Benefitness 4.indd 1

myhyperlocalnews.com

7/8/2022 9:27:56 AM

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 9

City News

Water Rescue

SRP Water Employees Rescue Horse from Canal Photos Courtesy of SRP AS A WATER MASTER FOR SALT RIVER PROJECT, KRISTEN KEIM IS USED TO WORKING WITH CUSTOMERS TO RESOLVE IRRIGATION WATER ORDER ISSUES AND MAINTAIN RELIABLE DELIVERIES. Last month, Keim’s job took an unusual turn. On a hot July Saturday, Keim was removing moss from an area of the Arizona Canal on the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community when she noticed a horse standing waist-deep in the water.

“The horse was near one of our equipment entrance ramps and did not appear to be in distress and was even blowing bubbles with its nose,” says Keim. “It was a very warm morning, and I didn’t think twice about it being in the water as we often see the wild horses in the area enter the canal to cool off.”

Keim left the area to inspect another section of the canal, and when she returned around noon to clear more moss, she noticed the horse was in the exact same location, facing the same direction – although this time it was further out of the water than before.

“I hadn’t realized earlier that morning that it was kneeling on all four knees. I grew concerned that it may be injured, stuck in some mud or that it couldn’t get its footing as the moss can be slippery,” Keim said. “Once I realized that he could be injured and knowing the history of the beloved Salt River wild horse population, I was determined to get him out of the water.”

With temperatures approaching 110 degrees, Keim

then contacted SRP’s Association Dispatch Center to advise them of the situation and cautiously approached the horse to see what assistance she could provide. After determining the horse was not alarmed by her presence, Keim managed to get the animal to turn around, but not up the ramp and out of the water.

After calling her colleague and fellow water master Chris Crosland to help, it was then Keim turned to a tried-and-true wild west approach.

“I retrieved a rope from my truck and tied a large loop in the end. I was able to lasso him and pull him a few feet towards the ramp,” Keim says. “I teamed up with Chris, using the rope and the pole to carefully pull the horse and help shuffle his legs up the ramp. It took some time, but he finally gathered his footing and made his way safely up the ramp. Eventually, he crossed the canal road, into the shade and began eating some brush. I watched him disappear into the trees.”

“I had to do everything in my power to make sure that he was okay. It was a great reminder to always be aware of your surroundings, you never know what could happen!”

Throughout the year, SRP crews are on the canal system performing a number of jobs to ensure the reliable and safe delivery of water to the Valley.

While they continue to do essential work on the canals, please provide them with safe social distancing. If you have any questions about SRP water delivery, please call SRP Water Customer Service at 602-236-3333.

CANAL SAFETY TIPS

If you use the canal banks, please follow these safety tips: • Do not enter the canal water under any circumstance.

• Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, and tubing in canals is prohibited.

• Keep a close watch on children, and make sure to teach them about canal safety.

• Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the canal banks (authorization from SRP is required).

• Stay away from automated equipment at water delivery gates.

• Call 911 for help if a person, pet, or object falls into the canal water.

10 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

Peoria Saves Local Dollars on Route 83 Service

Providing Exceptional Legal Representation For Over 20 Years

Regional transportation funds will begin paying for Route 83 service this year

• Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney • Divorce | Custody • Grandparents’ Rights and Third-Party Custody • Child Support and Spousal Maintenance • Mediation

www.stacierobblaw.com 15331 W. Bell Road, Suite 212 Surprise, AZ 86374 AS OF JULY, THE ROUTE 83 BUS SERVICE IN PEORIA WILL BE PAID FOR BY THE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FUNDS (PTF) ALLOCATED THROUGH THE REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN AND VALLEY METRO. Since 2017, the Peoria has been using city funds to pay for the service.

“Peoria saw the need to provide critical transportation to our residents by activating the 83rd Avenue line which connects to Bell, Thunderbird, and Peoria Avenues, where it was needed the most,” says Mayor Cathy Carlat. “Peoria took the lead to add this amenity in 2017, and I am pleased to see regional dollars now take over this service.”

The PTF was created as part of the Proposition 400 legislation, which was approved by Maricopa County voters in 2004 and extended the half cent sales tax for transportation by 20 years. The city of Peoria identified a need for transportation service on 83rd Avenue from Camelback Road to Bell Road.

To accelerate this regional connector bus service, the city of Peoria stepped forward in 2017 with funds from the city’s Transportation Sales Tax to ensure this service could be provided. Launched in October 2017, Route 83 was part of a 15-mile extension of Valley Metro service along 83rd Avenue, connecting Peoria myhyperlocalnews.com

(602) 334-4788

residents to work, dining, and shopping in Peoria, Glendale, and Phoenix. The northernmost stop of this fixed bus route is at Arrowhead Towne Center and the southernmost stop is located at 83rd Avenue and Van Buren Street. The route also connects with east-west routes at Thunderbird Road and Peoria Avenue and east-west connections at Arrowhead Towne Center with routes on Union Hills and Bell Road.

With the help of regional partners and Peoria Councilmember Jon Edwards, who sits on the Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority Board, the city was recently able to arrange to have the cost for this bus service paid for with regional funds. The projected cost for this route for fiscal year 2023 for service in Peoria is $992,000.

“Transportation is a vital part of a thriving community, and the city of Peoria has invested a lot to connect residents to the rest of the Valley,” says Councilmember Edwards. “Now that we’ve been able to secure different funding for the Route 83 regional bus service, we have freed up local dollars for future transit needs in Peoria.”

For more information about Route 83 or other transit options in Peoria, visit peoriaaz.gov/transit.

Distinctive living

in Anthem Country Club

T

his well maintained 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 2,892 square foot home in Anthem Country Club features north/south exposure with unobstructed views of untouched desert and breathtaking sunsets. This wonderful home provides casual, spacious indoor and outdoor living at its best! It features a sparkling PebbleTec pool with water feature, three outdoor living areas, a casita and many upgrades including a remodeled island kitchen, gorgeous granite counters and custom alder cabinets. A large master suite includes plantation shutters, plank hardwood floors and a remodeled master bath. The bright family room features a gas fireplace plus dining room and formal living room. Large bonus room currently used as an office is ready to enjoy!

C

onveniently located within walking distance of Anthem parks and shopping as well as a short drive to all of the new industry being built in North Phoenix. Anthem Country Club amenities include two member-exclusive clubhouses, fitness centers, tennis courts, swimming pools, golf courses and dining facilities plus access to all that Anthem Parkside has to offer!

Your Opportunity is now!

Offered at $859,000 Schedule your viewing today!

5 $% T

John Ciallella REALTOR® West USA Realty

Mobile: 480-220-3275 Email: JohnC@westusa.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 11

For over 25 years I have had the honor to build amazing custom stereo systems for anyone who needed it. From race cars to trucks, boats to RVs and more. I have loved every minute of it. When your hobby becomes your business it will never be work and will always be a great time!

City News New Sephora is Located Inside Kohl’s Peoria

SEPHORA DEBUTED A NEW STORE INSIDE KOHL’S PEORIA ON JULY 20. The new Sephora location replaces Kohl’s previous beauty selection and is located just inside the front center of the store. Featuring around 8,500 products from 125 prestige beauty brands including skincare, haircare, and fragrance, the location offers what shoppers have come to expect from Sephora.

“You’re seeing the exact same experience that you would enjoy in any other Sephora environment,” said Jean-Andre Rougeot, Sephora CEO of Americas in an interview with CNBC. “I would say the quality of the

store you’re seeing, the upscaleness, selectivity, is better than some of our own Sephora stores.”

“Beauty is a big industry, so there’s room for lots of players” Michelle Gass, CEO of Kohl’s told CNBC in an interview. “That being said, Sephora is the best. I mean, look at the shop: 2,500 square feet, no detail has been spared ... this is bringing premium beauty to the millions of Americans who haven’t had the access, the convenience.”

Sephora at Kohl’s is located at 10072 W. Happy Valley Rd.

By appointment only

805-651-0015

www.sterlingpoolcare.com

15% Discount to new customers on service or repair

Office: 623-687-5018 Licensed CPO & Insured

SterlingPoolCareandRepair 12 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

See the Light: Illuminated Artwork to be Showcased in West Valley Arts Council Exhibition Through September 12 Photos Courtesy of West Valley Arts Council AT MOST ART EXHIBITS LIGHT IS SHINED ON THE ART. At Illuminate, the light is integral to the work itself.

“Illumination refers not only to the way light is used to create the work, it also addresses what we hope people will feel from seeing it,” observes award-winning sculptor Kevin Caron, whose glowing large-format, 3D-printed sculptures will be featured in the show along with artwork from Phoenix artist Larry Ortega and Mesa artist Ceri Jones.

Sponsored by the West Valley Arts Council, the exhibition runs through Sept. 12 at WVAC’s Arts HQ Gallery at 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza in Surprise.

“People really ‘get’ these lighted sculptures,” says Caron, a Phoenix-based artist known for the 3D-printed and metal sculptures that he creates for public and private places. A pioneer in the field, Caron has been printing large-scale 3D-printed sculptures on his 8-foot-tall Gigante 3D printer for eight years and fabricating metal sculpture for 20. His simply complex sculptures can be seen in public and private places across the United States as well as overseas.

“I’ve created some very special pieces for this exhibit, though,” says Caron, who is lighting his translucent sculptures from the inside. Included will be 3-foot-tall SuperSize, a yellow sculpture that reaches for the sky, as well as Wormwood Light and Wormwood Dark, which handle light differently despite being made of the same purple filament.

Other artists include Ortega, a classically trained painter practicing as a self-taught sculptor. His work is created using media that absorbs and animates light and color in the dark; and Jones, who lights her

ethereal metal works from the inside to cast shadow and beauty outside.

“The Illuminate exhibition will shed light both literally and metaphorically on new and unexpected ways to look at art,” says Michael Denson, who conceived the show. Denson is now interim executive director of the West Valley Arts Council, which serves to connect communities to art and culture opportunities that encourage beauty, unity, and positive human connection.

For more about the exhibition, visit westvalleyarts.org, or call 623-584-2626.

Kevin Caron in his studio.

SuperSize, a 3-foot-tall sculpture featured in the exhibit

myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 13

CHILL OUT WHEN IT GETS HOT!

City News

Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee Launches Volunteer Program

Over 5,000 Volunteers Needed to be Part of TEAM AZ for Events Surrounding Super Bowl LVII FREE Estimates Valleywide

623-322-0933 coolzoneair.com

FREE

Up to

0% FOR 72 MO.*

SERVICE CALL

on qualifying Carrier systems

With any same day repair.

Certain restrictions apply.

*On approved credit. Terms and conditions apply.

Additional discount available.

THE ARIZONA SUPER BOWL HOST COMMITTEE LAUNCHED ITS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM, TEAM AZ, PRESENTED BY AVNET AND PETSMART. The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee is seeking 5,000 high-energy individuals to help welcome and assist residents and visitors as they take part in events around the Valley for Super Bowl LVII. “Having hosted the Super Bowl three times previously, Arizonans are well versed in how to welcome visitors and fans and help them enjoy their time here,” says Jay Parry, president and chief executive officer of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee. “Creating a positive experience for guests is a top priority, and TEAM AZ will be at the forefront of making that happen. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for locals to be in on the action of Super Bowl festivities.”

Volunteers will help the Host Committee, a private, non-profit organization, and the state of Arizona by serving as

ambassadors at key areas including airports, hotels, official Host Committee, and other events prior to and after the game. Opportunities for TEAM AZ begin as early as this month with the kickoff of Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee community events.

Interested participants must be at least 18 years old at the time of submission and go through a formal application process, including a background check. The Host Committee will hold a kickoff event and mandatory role-specific training leading up to festivities.

TEAM AZ volunteers must commit to three shifts ranging from four to six hours each. In addition to being a part of numerous events, volunteers will receive custom-designed apparel that can be worn while volunteering, including a jacket, polo shirt, and hat.

Fans can visit azsuperbowl.com/volunteer to apply to be part of TEAM AZ.

MR. SHINE VOTED BEST CAR WASH! Outside & Inside cleaning in 12 minutes or less!

50% OFF Ultimate Shine + Express Interior Cleaning Package (Only $15! Reg. $30)

Download the Mr. Shine App in the App Store or Google Play for a FREE Ultimate Shine Wash and exclusive offerings!

Locally family owned and operated

25500 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy, Peoria 623-755-2215 | MrShineAZ.com Follow Us! @MrShineAZ 14 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

Smooth Tunes

Theater Works’ August Acoustics Series Offers Folk and Bluegrass Lineup JOIN THEATER WORKS IN AUGUST FOR THE FREE FOLK AND BLUEGRASS MINISERIES, AUGUST ACOUSTICS. Performances are held on Tuesday nights at the Peoria Center for Performing Arts, located at 10580 N. 83rd Dr. Enjoy small and intimate performances of acoustic tunes played by a talented lineup of local folk and bluegrass artists from Arizona to California on Aug. 16, 23, 30. Grab a beer or glass of wine and some light snacks from the PCPA concessions and settle in for an entertaining evening of musical storytelling. In addition to concessions, a specialty dessert vendor offering homemade treats will be available for purchase at each event.

AUG. 16 Liz & Pete She’s Liz, he’s Pete, they are Liz & Pete. Liz Cerepanya and Peter Dalton Ronstadt join musical forces to explore material old and new. Liz’s heartfelt voice with Pete’s haunting harmonies and rich guitar arrangements captivate the mind and tug at the heart.

Liz & Pete

myhyperlocalnews.com

AUG. 23 RISO For the last decade, Matt and Rebekah Rolland, the acoustic duo RISO, have been on the road with their nationally acclaimed Americana band, Run Boy Run, participated as artists-in-residence for the National Parks Centennial, and collaborated on seven studio albums. RISO is rooted in the acoustic soundscapes of their respective childhoods and elevated by sharp and complementary musical instincts.

AUG. 30 Angel City Bluegrass Boys The Angel City Bluegrass Boys are a young group of Angelenos steeped in the stylings of traditional bluegrass. Combining tight harmonies with solid instrumental base, The Angel City Bluegrass Boys are as compelling as they are lonesome.

Space is limited, so reserve your free seats in advance at theaterworks.org.

RISO

Angel City Bluegrass Boys

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 15

City News

Caesars Sportsbook at Chase Field Now Open with Guy Fieri’s DTPHX Kitchen + Bar

Freestanding entertainment destination boasts more than 20 betting stations and Guy Fieri’s first-ever full-service restaurant in Arizona CAESARS SPORTSBOOK AT CHASE FIELD IS OFFICIALLY OPEN. The two-story, 22,300-square-foot entertainment destination is located adjacent to Chase Field in Downtown Phoenix and is now the largest freestanding sportsbook in Arizona and the largest retail sportsbook to open in partnership with a major sports stadium nationwide.

This new sportsbook and full-service restaurant combo is unlike any opened to date. The venue features a total of nine betting windows and 13 self-service betting kiosks as well as wall-to-wall flatscreen televisions, patio space, along with table and lounge-style seating on both floors with a total capacity of more than 425.

Private space is also available to rent.

Barking Bodega, Desert Diamond Casino, and the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa, Guy Fieri’s DTPHX Kitchen + Bar offers scratch-made food, signature and classic cocktails, and an extensive beer and wine menu.

The menu also features a combination of new recipes and Fieri’s personal favorites from his other restaurants, including the world-famous Trash Can Nachos ($20) and award-winning Bacon Mac ‘n’ Cheeseburger ($18).

“I’ve worked with the Caesars team for nearly a decade opening restaurants all over the country together. They are the best of the best,” says Fieri. “The idea of bringing this next-level restaurant concept to Arizona, a place

where I have showcased more than 30 restaurants through Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives over the years, was a no-brainer for me.”

Caesars Sportsbook is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., on Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m., on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m., and on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Guy Fieri’s DTPHX Kitchen + Bar is open Sunday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. for food service and until 1 a.m. both nights for beverage service. The venue will also be open during D-backs off days and have expanded hours during football season.

An opening event was held on June 21 featuring remarks from Caesars and D-backs representatives, a first bite sampling of menu items and ceremonial first bets, as well as a donation of $20,000 by Caesars to the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation.

“We’re extremely proud to bring Caesars Sportsbook and Guy Fieri’s Kitchen + Bar to Chase Field and Downtown Phoenix,” says Eric Hession, co-president of Caesars Digital. “This destination provides sports bettors and non-sports bettors, locals and visitors alike, with an experience they can’t find anywhere else.”

“We are proud to partner with Caesars Entertainment and Guy Fieri, to bring a year-round first-class sportsbook, restaurant, and event space to downtown Phoenix. Everything about this dynamic venue, from the food to the design to the service, has been meticulously planned for an unmatched guest experience, says D-backs President and CEO Derrick Hall.

Bloc9 Architecture served as architect on the project in partnership with Borisoff Design Studio while The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company served as general contractor to create a venue that conveys the Caesars Sportsbook brand in a modern way through a lively and contemporary space fit for a Caesar.

The opening of Guy Fieri’s DTPHX Kitchen + Bar at Caesars Sportsbook marks the celebrity chef’s firstever full-service restaurant in Arizona. Designed in partnership with Fieri and led locally by Executive Chef Kayla Laasko, who brings experience from The 16 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

(L-R): Arizona Diamondbacks President and CEO Derrick Hall, Caesars Sportsbook Senior Vice President of Operations David Grolman, Caesars Sportsbook Brand Ambassador Kenny Mayne, Co-President of Caesars Sports & Online Gaming Eric Hession, and Caesars Sportsbook Head of Sports Ken Fuchs addressing the crowd during the June 21 grand opening event.

myhyperlocalnews.com

City News

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport Opens New Concourse at Terminal Photo Courtesy of City of Phoenix PHOENIX SKY HARBOR’S INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RECENTLY UNVEILED ITS EIGHTH CONCOURSE TO MUCH FANFARE. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, members of the Phoenix City Council, other local leaders, and Southwest Airlines corporate, arrived to the new concourse on the airline’s Arizona One flagship aircraft where they cut a ribbon to debut the concourse. The concourse, which opened to departing flights and passengers at the end of June, will be used by Southwest and will offer eight additional gates for the airline.

“Phoenix Sky Harbor delivers a $38 billion annual economic impact, and the new concourse is filled with innovations and experiences that travelers will enjoy and remember,” says Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

The new, state-of-the-art eight-gate concourse is solely occupied by Southwest Airlines. The 275,000 square foot space features a variety of customer amenities, including access to charging stations in every seat, an animal relief area, family restroom, nursing room, and hearing loop connectivity, which will allow those with hearing devices to connect to the PA system.

Additionally, the concourse will feature new local shops and restaurants, as well as a common-use airport lounge. Local favorites Pedal Haus Brewery and Berry Divine – Acai Bowls will be in the new concourse as well as regional concepts like Bobby’s Burgers and Eegee’s as well as national chain Chick-Fil-A. Sip Coffee & Beer will also provide travelers with several local products from concepts such as Native Ground Coffee, Mother Road Brewing and Half Moon Empanadas.

The retail shops will introduce not only national

myhyperlocalnews.com

brands at the Uptown Phoenix shop and InMotion Entertainment, but also through a partnership, access to local products from Changing Hands Bookstores, Made Art Boutique and Melrose Pharmacy. AD Partnership will also be opening the Chase Sapphire Lounge by the Club. It will feature 3,500 square feet of space and provide travelers a specially curated menu with a focus on local items.

The shops, restaurants, and lounge will be opening in the coming months, and in the meantime, customers will find food and beverage and retail kiosks.

The new concourse also showcases the arts. In fact, Phoenix Sky Harbor is no stranger to art, with one of the largest Airport Museum Programs in the country, as well as extensive art elements throughout the airport.

This new concourse features the 12th terrazzo floor that artists have designed for the Airport’s PHX Sky Train system and terminal enhancements over the past 10 years. The immersive, art project consists of a 30’ x 300’ terrazzo floor and 28 2’ x 3’ airplane window shaped, terrazzo wall pieces called “Phoenix Lights, Phoenix Rising” designed by artist Susan Logoreci. The floor depicts aerial views of the Phoenix landscape. The new installation provides travelers the opportunity to pause and enjoy something special before or after their flights.

Honest, Caring, & Compassionate Services Services Offered Offered • All On 4 • Dental Implants • Wisdom Teeth Removal • IV Sedation/ General Anesthesia • Multiple Insurances Accepted • Cash Discounts

Peoria Oral & Implant Surgery PLLC

10210 W Happy Valley Pkwy, Ste 150 623-230-2297 | www.peoriaoralsurgery.com info@peoriaoralsurgery.com

Free Consult & Xray For patients without insurance

The new concourse, which is applying for LEED Silver Certification, also has several sustainable elements. This includes 14,000 square feet of electrochromic glazing throughout the concourse. This intelligent technology provides various levels of tinting depending upon the level of sunlight at any given point during the day and not only helps to keep travelers comfortable, but to improve energy efficiency as well.

To learn more, visit skyharbor.com.

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 17

Create Your Dream Home! with this beautiful piece of the Sonoran Desert located in Desert Hills!

35XXX N 17TH AVE 85086 OFFERED AT $275,000 Picturesque lot in Desert Hills 1.25+ acre parcel with desert vegetation 2-party shared well APS Electricity on site Conveniently close to Carefree Highway and I-17 Plans for a 3k sq ft home with guest house also available

Your

85085/85086

Real Estate Specialists

Call us today to get your home sold!

602-421-2324 Shelley @TheSakalaGroup.com • TheSakalaGroup.com 20033 N. 19th Avenue  Suite 121  Phoenix, AZ 85027

18 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

The Sakala Group Real Estate Team

homesbythesakalagroup

myhyperlocalnews.com

Dining

Scorpion Bay Marina offers food and fun

By Gretchen Pahia SCORPION BAY MARINA IS ONE OF THE VALLEY’S PREMIERE OUTDOOR PLAYGROUNDS. Located next to Lake Pleasant, the marina is also a tasty spot to grab a bite.

No doubt, the lake will be calling your name this August and so will the delicious menu at Scorpion Bay Grill. Settled in along the marina and with amazing waterside lake views, this restaurant boasts delicious eats.

Starters on the menu include a quesadilla with grilled chicken, cheddar, pico de gallo, black beans, and salsa; jumbo wings that come with house-made wing sauce or barbecue sauce; and a pretzel platter, which includes a giant salted pretzel, parmesan pretzel, garlic pretzel braid, beer cheese, and house-made mustard.

Looking for something a bit more substantial than a starter? Don’t worry, the regular menu has you covered. Favorites include the marina club sandwich on wheatberry toast, sliced turkey, bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. You can also nab a plate of Joe’s fish n chips, which include beer battered cod, fries, tartar sauce, and pineapple-sriracha coleslaw.

Flatbread pizza options include pepperoni, margarita, barbecue chicken, and a flatbread-of-the-day. Patrons can also order off the grill with a protein of their choosing. Soft drinks and cocktails can available too, all served up with 360-degree mountain views.

Each evening, there’s a special pre-fix dinner menu that changes depending on the available fresh ingredients of the chef’s choosing. Call ahead for a look at what’s available each night. For more information, visit scorpionbayaz.com.

If you’re hitting the lake during the day, be sure to take time to check out the inflatable climbing structures at Paqua Park. The park is open weekends only until Sept. 25. Life jackets are required for all swimmers, and visitors are asked to arrive 15 to 20 minutes ahead of their reserved session to prepare for the fun. Kids must be at least 7 years old to play at Paqua Park and be at least 45” tall to get on the floating structure. Single 45-minute sessions cost $25 per person. Purchase tickets online at paquapark.com.

myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 19

Cover Story

WYMAN PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

PHOTO BY TAWN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

WYMAN PLUMBING & MECHANICAL:

A FAMILY-OWNED, COMMUNITY-ORIENTED BUSINESS READY TO SERVE THE NORTHWEST VALLEY. 20 •• May August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER 18 2022 • THE SCOTTSDALE STANDARD

Michelle Talsma TalsmaEverson Everson

By Michelle

G

rowingup, up,Tamra TamraWyman Wymanworked workedforfor her rowing her parents’ parents’ small business—and she lovedshe it. When small business—and she loved it.

When began shefibegan officialof job outside ofbusiness, her her rst offiher cial first job outside her family’s family’s business, was working at store. a plumbing supply it was working at aitplumbing supply “Little did I store. “Little didaIplumber know I’dand marry and own know I’d marry ownaaplumber plumbing company,” a plumbing says laugh.

In 2016, she says withcompany,” a laugh. Inshe 2016, shewith andaher husband she and her husband Wyman opened Wyman Doug Wyman openedDoug Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical Plumbing &since Mechanical (WPM) and sincesmall thenfamily their (WPM) and then their locally-owned, locally-owned, small family business has quality continued business has continued to grow—providing to grow—providing quality service and plumbing service and plumbing and repair expertise to homesand and repair expertise homes businesses acrosstothe Valleyand andbusinesses Scottsdale.across the Valley, including the northwest Peoria communities of Vistancia, Trilogy, Blackstone, Westwing.

“I worked for my parents’ onlineand retail business and missed running a business,” Tamra shares. “Then, with “I worked fora my parents’ online andthat Doug being plumber for over 20retail years,business we realized missed running a business,” Tamra shares.

“Then,At we had the opportunity to start our own business. with Doug being a& plumber for over 20 years, Wyman Plumbing Mechanical, I manage thewe office realized that we had the to start our Doug and business logistics, andopportunity because of his expertise, own At Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical, is thebusiness. service manager.

When we opened our business,I manage office logistics, and we had tothe think bigand andbusiness give it 100%.

We hit thebecause ground of his expertise, thedence, servicebecause manager. running hard andDoug with is confi for When us, there’s we other opened our we had to think big and give no way to business, do it.” it 100%. We hit the ground running hard and with confidence, becauseGO-TO for us, there’s no other way to do SCOTTSDALE’S PLUMBING AND it.”

APPLIANCE REPAIR EXPERTS Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical’s plumbers and THE NORTHWEST VALLEY’S GO-TOand appliance repair team proudly serve residential PLUMBING AND APPLIANCE REPAIR commercial clients.

They are a state-licensed, bonded, and EXPERTS insured plumbing service and appliance repair company.

Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical’s plumbers and appliance teamto proudly servetechnicians, residential we andall “From our repair office team the service commercial clients.

They areand a state-licensed, bonded, live in the same community have the ambition to and insured plumbing service appliance repair serve our fellow neighbors withand excellence,” according company. to WPM. “As a local tight-knit team, our plumbers and “From ourrepairmen office team to the honest, servicereliable technicians, wethat all appliance provide services live inhead-and-shoulders the same community andthe have the ambition to stand above rest.” serve our fellow neighbors with excellence,” according to WPM. “As athat local tight-knit team, that our plumbers and Tamra shares some of the things sets Wyman appliance & repairmen provide reliable services Plumbing Mechanical aparthonest, is their high-quality that standservice head-and-shoulders thepotential rest.” customer and being able above to quote customers over the phone.

Tamra shares that some of the things that sets Wyman Plumbing Mechanical apart is theirIhigh-quality “When we& moved here from Colorado, noticed that customer serviceand and being able to quote many plumbing appliance repair shopspotential wouldn’t do customers the phone. quotes overover the phone and charged customers to come out,” she says. “But for customers’ convenience, we can “Whenthe wemajority moved of here from I noticed that quote jobs overColorado, the phone.” many plumbing and appliance repair shops wouldn’t do quotes thethat phone and charged customers to come She alsoover notes customer service is a top priority, and out,”encourages she says. “But for customers’ wethen can she her staff to, “Leave aconvenience, job site cleaner quotefound the majority of jobs over the phone.” they it.”

She also notes that customer service is aPlumbing top priority, Tamra and Doug both share that Wyman techand sheare encourages her staff to, a job site “We cleaner nicians detailed, courteous and“Leave knowledgeable. are then theywith found equipped all it.” the tools needed to get your task done efficiently, quickly and neatly,” according to WPM. “Our Tamra and Doug bothshow share Wyman Plumbing experienced team will upthat in service vehicles that are technicians arewith detailed, courteous and in knowledgeable. fully equipped the latest technology plumbing or “We are equipped with thedent toolsyou needed to get appliance repair…We areallconfi will not findyour bettaskqualifi doneed, efficiently, quickly and neatly,” ter down-to-earth plumbers in all according of Arizona.” myhyperlocalnews.com

to WPM. “Our experienced team will show up in service vehicles that are fully equipped with the latest technology in plumbing or appliance repair…We are confident you will not find better qualified, down-toearth plumbers in all of Arizona.”

says. “So, knowing there’s the demand, we now have appliance installation experts on staff who take these calls. It’s often best to have us do them anyway, because they hook up to your plumbing system, and we have expertise in both appliance repair and plumbing.”

“All of our service technicians wear booties and, of course, clean up after themselves,” Tamra says. “It’s all about leaving local customers with that wow factor.”

She adds that the company replies quickly to customers’ needs, including plumbing emergencies.

This service includes commercial appliances for everything from laundromats to restaurants. Another popular service is gas conversion for appliances.

Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical’s available services include: the installation and repair of water heaters, water softeners, reverse osmosis, garbage disposals, gas lines, and faucet, toilet, and pressure reducing valves (PRV). Other services include fixing drain issues, drain cleans, toilet problems, water main repairs, broken pipes, septic/sewer lines, leak detection, re-pipes, plumbing camera inspection, rooter services, and more commercial or residential plumbing offerings.

JUST ADDED: APPLIANCE REPAIR SERVICES New to their line-up is their appliance repair services department. Tamra explains that offering these services came as a natural extension of their already-established plumbing and repair services. “We’d get calls asking us to install washers, dryers, dishwashers, you name it,” she

a local, family-run business, Doug emphasizes that supporting local businesses strengthens the community and economy.

“We urge residents to stay local with the small business owners and the licensed contractors who spent the time acquiring experience and expanding knowledge in their trade,” he says. “The state of Arizona requires licensed contractors to meet experience and examination requirements. Each licensed contractor is also required by the state of Arizona to maintain a bond and insurance coverage to protect homeowners from unnecessary liability.”

COMMUNITY MATTERS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORTING LOCAL In addition to offering quality service at fair prices to their neighbors, Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical is also Looking to the future, Tamra, and Doug share that they invested in the community. plan to work hard on continued success and growth.

“We very much love giving back to our customers and “We will continue to grow new divisions based on those who have supported us,” Tamra shares. “Some of customer demand, like we did with the appliance repair our customers’ causes that we have donated to include North Valley Christian Academy, a variety of teams and services,” Tamra says. “Now that we repair appliances too in addition to plumbing and mechanical, we clubs at local high schools, and area nonprofits. One are truly your one-stop shop. We’d like to thank the of our plumbing technicians is very passionate about community for their support, and we will continue to IMCA Hobby Stock Racing and we recently sponsored grow and give back as we do. There’s nothing more his team, Cheetah Racing.” important than supporting our local community and Added to running a business together, Doug and Tamra being able to make it a better place.” are busy parents with four children, ranging in ages To learn more about Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical, from 5 to 19. Their eldest, Eric, works for the family visit wyman-services.com or call 623-551-6688. business as a plumbing technician. As the owner of

AUGUST APPLIANCE REPAIR DEALS This month, in celebration of launching their appliance repair department, WPM is offering an Annual Reverse Osmosis Filter Change Package for $150. This includes changing of standard R.O. system filters, re-pressurizing of R.O. tank, R.O. membrane test, overall R.O. system check, standard tank water heater flush, a water pressure check on the house, toilet leak detection tests, and water softener check with water hardness test.

And, for those looking to install a new water heater, WPM is offering a Navien Tankless Water Heater with Installation for $4,295 (normally $4,795). This includes all parts, materials, and labor for standard installation and removal/disposal of old unit. Features include: a built-in recirculation pump for hot water on demand, endless hot water with ComfortFlow technology, eco-friendly pre-mixed burners reducing emissions, incredible efficiency with secondary heat exchanger, and tremendous durability with stainless steel construction. myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 21

Sensory Kits and Birthday Party Favors Also Available!

Now Offering Sensory Birthday Parties!

Kids birthday parties don’t have to be chaotic.

Are you looking for a unique birthday party entertainment idea that will keep your kiddo busy and entertained the whole party?

Select the location of your choice and we will set up our sensory picnic table with two custom sensory bins that are yours to keep!

Perfect for kids with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder.

Book Online simplestepslearning.com

10%OFF

if you mention Upper Westsider when booking or ordering

BIRTHDAYS Packages (Plus $50 Deposit)

BASE PARTY: 12 Kids • $200 Mon-Thurs • $250 Fri-Sun Up to 20 kids: $15 per kid • Up to 30 kids: $20 per kid VIP PREMIUM PARTY: Before Store Opens $600

Education

Phoenix Children’s, SRP Partner to Implement Innovative Approach to Reduce Child Drownings

I

n an effort to improve water safety messaging and reduce child drownings in Arizona, SRP is supporting Phoenix Children’s by partnering to support the health system’s drowning prevention curriculum to pediatricians’ practices statewide.

With funding from SRP, Phoenix Children’s is furthering their longstanding work to reduce drownings through a first-of-its-kind drowning prevention program that will provide pediatricians throughout Arizona with the tools and training they need to educate families about water safety during regularly scheduled well-child visits for children who are at highest risk of drowning.

“The partnership with SRP means more pediatricians will have access to evidence-based drowning prevention curriculum and resources,” says Tiffaney Isaacson, senior injury prevention specialist at Phoenix Children’s Center for Family Health & Safety. “This is a critical aspect of preventive care for families with young children, especially in Arizona. Our programming helps clinicians engage families in concise, meaningful conversations about risk factors and strategies based on the child’s age and developmental stage.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the number one cause of death in children from ages 1 to 4. In Arizona, the rate of drowning is nearly twice the national average.

“As the largest provider of water to the Valley, SRP understands the importance of water safety. Most drownings take place in swimming pools and can occur silently and swiftly, which is why we work closely

with cities and agencies around the Valley to help our community partners educate families about the importance of water safety,” says Regina Lane Haycock, SRP’s water safety community engagement strategist.

Phoenix Children’s designed the curriculum to dovetail with clinician and caregiver discussions on typical developmental milestones for young children. When a parent visits a trusted medical provider, they will also be armed with information on how to keep their little one safe around the pool or any body of water.

“For example, parents of a 2-year-old will learn about their child’s thinking, physical and social skills, such as their interest in climbing and scrambling and their tendency to break rules,” says Isaacson. “These conversations will help parents understand their toddler’s risk factors at a much more personal level and bring the importance of water safety to life in a powerful way. Our goal is simple: to save children’s lives.”

Program development and recruitment have taken place through Phoenix Children’s Care Network, one of the nation’s largest clinically integrated networks.

PCCN pediatricians who opt into this program receive training during two instructional sessions and can earn Maintenance of Certification Part IV credits from the American Board of Pediatrics. They also have ongoing access to the health system’s injury prevention team as questions and needs arise. Phoenix Children’s provides supplemental materials, including provider newsletters, exam room posters and caregiver handouts in English and Spanish, and sunscreen packets for patient families, to underscore the water safety messaging.

PACKAGES INCLUDE: 2 Build a Figs* • Build a Car and Race It Foil Packs/Poly Bags for End of Party 10% OFF In-store on Day of Party *Additional minifigs may be purchased at regular price

7440 W Cactus Rd, Suite A-6 Peoria, AZ 85381 https://linktr.ee/bampeoriaarizon (623) 440-3269

Book any date for this year by the end of August and get 20% OFF! 22 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

myhyperlocalnews.com

Kids’ Corner

PUSD Students Accomplish Big Things

PUSD STUDENTS EARN PRIVATE PILOT’S LICENSE Photo Courtesy of PUSD

Congratulations to Cactus High School Air Force Junior ROTC cadets Brayton AFJROTC cadets Brayton Pelke (left) and Nathan Kajornkittipoom (right).

Pelke and Nathan Kajornkittipoom on graduating AFJROTC Flight Academy.

The duo, both Peoria Unified School District students, earned their private pilot’s license from Delta State University in Mississippi.

CENTENNIAL GRADUATE INVITES RENOWNED ARTIST TO PAINT MURAL AT SCHOOL Photo Courtesy of PUSD

“You Are Loved” mural.

Cori Borgstadt, a life-long Girl Scout and Centennial High School graduate, as part of her final project for her Girl Scout Gold Award, invited renowned artist Alex Cook to paint one of his popular “You Are Loved” murals at Centennial in Peoria.

Cook has created over 180 murals throughout the United States and Internationally, including over 70 “You Are Loved” murals. He says the idea is to touch the heart and put a smile on someone’s face.

Cori Borgstadt

You Want

Comprehensive Healthcare.

We Are Your Healthcare Team.

The Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic offers comprehensive, affordable care for the entire family, including Family Medicine, Women’s Health, Pediatrics, Foot and Ankle Services, and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine.

Our caring faculty physicians and other healthcare providers utilize the latest technology to provide compassionate healthcare for patients of all ages.

Call for an appointment: 623-537-6000 Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic Your Family’s Home for Healthcare myhyperlocalnews.com

19389 North 59th Avenue Glendale Arizona 85308 www.mwuclinics.com UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 23

Kids’ Corner

SCHOOL SAFETY FIVE QUESTIONS ALL PARENTS SHOULD ASK SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

By Nadine Bubeck

A

s parents, it’s inevitably on our minds, sending our kids back to school after ending the 2022 school year drowning in horrific headlines. Surely, we can’t help but ponder a Uvdale-like situation happening in our community, leaving us unsettled, worrisome, and nauseated.

The experts at Pro Defense Advisors out of Scottsdale says 83% of attacks last five minutes or less; 44% end in one minute. In addition, the average police response time in the United States is seven to 10 minutes. Let that sink in.

So, what can parents do to proactively play a role in ensuring the safety of local schools? Well, Pro Defense Advisors suggests asking your district and administrators five safety questions. Such inquiries will better educate parents on protocol, as well as encourage schools to achieve maximum safety measures.

HERE ARE THE QUESTIONS TO GET THE CONVERSATION STARTED.

QUESTION 1: Does your campus have a dedicated School Resource Officer (SRO) program?

Why Ask: A dedicated SRO should be officed and assigned to your school for the 40-hour workweek and not split between other locations. The officer should have a fully marked patrol vehicle, usually parked in the front of the building. The role of the SRO is to be a dedicated security agent constantly patrolling campus. They also

have several duties other than security, such as teaching safety classes, increasing community engagement, and responding to regular services calls.

communication in a critical incident as well as the parent/guardian response to the scene, accountability of students, etc.

QUESTION 2: Has the school district conducted a full Threat Vunerability Assessment (TVA)?

Why Ask: These assessments can be completed by the Homeland Defense Bureau of a local police department or private security consultants, such as Pro Defense Advisors. The on-site analysis provides a detailed report on campus threats and offer solutions to better secure the campus.

QUESTION 5: Does the school have a standard EOP for any type of emergency (attacker, flood, fire, etc.)?

Why Ask: This plan should outline policy and procedures for the FEMA protocols. The Incident Command System (ICS) should be in place and the school staff should be properly trained. School staff will likely be the first and last line of defense for any critical incident at your school.

QUESTION 3: What is the school’s Lockdown Plan and Drill Schedule?

Why Ask: A Lockdown Plan and performing regular drills, like fire drills, are incredibly important, as it gives teachers and students practice should a real-life situation occur. Food for thought: fire drills are usually conducted once per month, and the last child that perished in a school fire was 1958. Statistics have shown that no child has been killed behind a locked classroom door during an active shooting situation. What is your school’s drill and protocol?

If you seek additional resources for education on active shooting situations, there are numerous avenues available, including the RUN-HIDE-FIGHT video supported by the FBI (available on YouTube), as well as ALICE – Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate.

QUESTION 4: Does your school have a Parent/ Guardian Reunification Plan?

Why Ask: A Parent/Guardian Reunification Plan should be clearly communicated with parents/guardians prior to school beginning for the semester. This plan outlines

Epic Ki ds our stories, our adventures EST. 2009

24 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

As a reminder, always encourage your children: if you see something, say something. Reiterate that school is a place where students should feel safe in expressing concern to an adult, and all reports should be taken seriously. Create an open-door policy with your kids and welcome communication. As parents, report all things questionable. For more information, visit prodefenseadvisors.com.

Nadine Bubeck is a Scottsdale based boy mom and journalist: nadinebubeck.com. Follow her on Instagram @ mamaandmyboys.

Since 2009, Epic Kids has been proudly highlighting the achievements of local kids!

Follow us on Facebook for -Family Fun & Events -Epic Giveaways -Camp Guides And more!

Facebook.com/EpicKidsAZ EpicKidsAZ.com myhyperlocalnews.com

Health

Your Teeth Can Kill You! Periodontal disease is linked to 57 different bodily diseases!

By Dr. Marina Ambridge, DDS, FAGD “So, what if my gums bleed sometimes? At least I have all my teeth.”

If that’s your excuse to not go to the dentist, you may want to rethink that.

Oral hygiene is commonly not prioritized as much as it should be, but fortunately times are changing. There is increased awareness about gum (periodontal) disease and the importance of catching it early on.

With increased awareness, there has been increased research, bringing some other more critical issues to light: periodontal disease can harm more than just your gums. It can have some serious effects on your overall health, opening the door to fatal diseases.

THE QUESTION HERE IS: HOW? Periodontal disease is essentially the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bones that surround and support the teeth. The culprits here are yeast, viruses, and a host of other bacteria.

Let’s focus on the word inflammation for now.

Medicine is now starting to redefine vascular disease

as an inflammatory disease, so anything that causes inflammation can cause vascular diseases.

With gum disease, the bacteria (or bugs within your teeth known as the traveling oral microbiome) are continuously supplied to the rest of your body from your teeth and gum area. Your immune system has to fight the bacteria day and night. This greatly stresses your health and creates chronic inflammation in your system, which forms the basis for Alzheimer’s, vascular diseases, diabetes, and other inflammatory diseases like periodontal disease.

This is what we call inflammation syndrome. There is sufficient evidence that indicates gum disease can reduce elasticity of your blood vessels and cause atherosclerosis, a condition that develops when plaque builds up inside your arteries. In fact, men under 50 with periodontal disease have a 72% increased risk for heart disease.

But how do gum bacteria affect your heart? Pathogens that have now moved into your system can create gaps within the blood vessels. If you already have a buildup within your arteries, bam, something disastrous might cook up. This is how clots and heart issues take birth.

The truth is that periodontal disease is linked to 57

different bodily diseases. But instead of jumping to conclusions, what’s important is for you to understand that what goes on in your mouth can have a direct effect on the rest of your body. The harmful bacteria on your teeth can affect your liver, kidney, heart, and other major organ systems.

Periodontal disease does not go away by itself. In fact, it only becomes worse with time. Besides the level of personal and professional dental care, progression of periodontal disease depends on your genetics or acquired environmental factors including diet, smoking, sleep quality and others.

SO, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? If you are experiencing any symptoms such as bleeding or swollen gums, bring this to your dentist’s knowledge along with any other bodily issues you might be facing.

Your role is to understand the seriousness of the situation, consult your dentist and leave the rest to the experts, who can personalize the treatments based on clinical data, determine maintenance protocols, and help you keep your overall health in top shape.

Dr. Marina Ambridge, DDS, FAGD, is a premier, award winning dentist in Peoria. Learn more by visiting, awarddentistpeoria.com or calling 623-323-4238.

623-323-4238

OUR PATIENTS LOVE US!

HAD MY FIRST APPOINTMENT. WHICH HAPPEN TO BE A MORE COMPLEX CASE. LOVE THE DR. SHE IS GENTLE,EXPLAINS WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE, OPTIONS AND WHAT SHE RECOMMENDS AND WHY. YOU CAN MAKE INFORMED DECISION. STAFF IS POLITE, FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL. SO GLAD TO HAVE FOUND A PLACE TO HAVE MY DENTAL CARE DONE

myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 25

Health

125 a month

$

Study Shows Americans Aren’t Planning for Future Healthcare Needs

for covered OTC products and groceries

By StatePoint Photo Courtesy of PeopleImages iStock / Getty Images Plus

Got Medicaid? Got Medicare? Get more benefits with UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete.® If you have Medicaid and Medicare, you could get more help to cover your care and costs. UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete includes a prepaid card to buy covered over-the-counter (OTC) products and groceries, plus many other extra benefits you may be missing today.

With $125 a month on a prepaid card:

Dual Complete is a health plan for people who: • Have both Medicaid and Medicare • Could use more help to cover more care and costs • Want more benefits for a $0 plan premium

• Buy over-the-counter products, including pain relievers, vitamins, bandages, allergy relief and more • Buy healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, dairy, cereal, pasta and more • Shop at participating stores or order online with free home delivery options

New

for 202 2

uhccp.com/AZdual Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid Program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Benefits and features vary by plan/area. Limitations and exclusions apply. Depending on your level of Medicaid eligibility, costs may vary. OTC and Healthy Food benefits have expiration timeframes. Call the plan or refer to your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for more information. © 2022 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Y0066_211109_031115_M SPRJ71709_H0321-002-000

SPRJ71706_SPRJ71709_AZ_3Q2022_NP_4.92x10.6.indd 1

Recent research suggests that many aging Americans aren’t aware of the full range of options available to them. As we age, our healthcare needs intensify, and experts say that the U.S. healthcare system will need to embrace home healthcare options to meet the demand of an aging population.

The new national survey, titled “Aging in Place: Assessing Senior’s Understanding of Home Healthcare Options,” conducted

by Bredin on behalf of Cross Country Workforce Solutions Group, shows that while most people aged 50-79 years old would prefer at-home care as they age, 91% of respondents have not proactively researched the care they may need as they grow older. Further, 34% have not thought about their care needs, and awareness of existing managed-at-home care programs was low among the survey respondents.

“By living at home, seniors can maintain their independence and be close to their loved ones and community, and by and large, that is what they want to do.

At-home care can both meet the needs of those requiring long-term care, while alleviating some of the mounting challenges faced by hospitals and healthcare systems,” says Pamela Jung, president of Cross Country Workforce Solutions Group, a division of Cross Country Healthcare, the nation’s leading provider of in-home clinical and non-clinical care for aging seniors.

There’s more for you. Call today.

1-844-389-0591, TTY 711

26 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

I

f you haven’t spent time considering what your healthcare needs will be in the years or even decades from now, you’re not alone.

6/2/22 8:42 AM

As you explore your options, consider the following tips: • Leave no stone unturned: From transportation to medical appointments to help with household tasks, consider what your potential needs might be and research programs in your community to address them. While there are assistance programs available to help seniors age with dignity, the Cross Country Workforce Solutions Group survey found that the majority of older Americans are unaware of an

important one: Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a national program of comprehensive care for adults age 55 and over who would prefer to remain living at home rather than in a nursing facility. In some communities, PACE is known as Living Independently for the Elderly (LIFE). These programs can make living at home a safer and more affordable option than institutionalized care.

“This program has provided me with the best caregiver. She is a great person with a great heart, and she goes above and beyond during my home care services,” says Luther Bell, PACE participant. “I feel like I have improved a lot in many ways because my caregiver meal preps for me, provides quality care, and our daily interactions bring positivity to my life.”

• Start a dialogue: Talk to your family and friends about your wishes and where you would like to receive care. Also, continue to have regular conversations with your doctors about your health.

• Consider your budget: While the average senior collects just $18,000 annually in social security, 57% of survey respondents have not considered the budget they will need for aged care services and support. Take time to learn how much various aspects of care will cost, factoring in standard living expenses.

For additional survey results and information about home healthcare, visit crosscountryhealthcare.com/aging-in-place.

“At a time when the burden on hospitals and health systems has at times compromised their ability to deliver quality care, living at home with support can provide optimized care and independence to seniors,” says Jung. myhyperlocalnews.com

Health

Join Sun Health Foundation for the 3rd Annual

5K

Monsoons and Valley Fever: What You Need to Know

M

onsoons can provide a muchneeded break from the monotony of summer’s 110-degree-plus days, but the season also brings some health concerns.

Monsoon storms drop air quality by locking in pollution. High ozone levels can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and make breathing harder for the elderly and the very young. Symptoms caused by high ozone levels include sore throat, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. When ozone levels are high, you should limit your time outdoors.

Dust storms are also common during monsoon season, which can worsen asthma and other chronic pulmonary conditions. This dust can carry coccidioides immiti. That’s the soil-dwelling fungus that can cause Valley fever, which you can inhale without even knowing.

“I see a lot of Valley fever in my practice,” says David Drachler, MD, a pulmonary disease specialist at HonorHealth Medical Group. “The pattern that I’ve noticed over the years is that when we have a wet spring, a dry summer and then a windy fall, it’s in the fall that we see the cases of Valley fever on the rise.”

He added that Valley fever infections can occur at any time during the year, but it’s most prevalent in fall after monsoon season.

VALLEY FEVER SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT Valley fever is more commonly found in arid regions, notably the southwestern United States, Mexico, and South America. Symptoms vary from person to person, which can make it difficult to diagnose.

You may experience: • Fever, chills, fatigue, cough, and headache • Rashes, chest pain, joint aches, shortness of breath, and nausea • Symptoms that typically last for up to four weeks Symptoms can mimic other common respiratory illnesses, like colds, the flu or even COVID-19. myhyperlocalnews.com

HEALTH

Valley fever commonly resolves on its own, but more severe infections require antifungal treatments by a doctor.

“Most cases of Valley fever go unrecognized and untreated, and there’s nothing wrong with that,” says Dr. Drachler. “About 60% of patients who are infected come and see a doctor, and of them, probably half of the cases I see don’t require treatment. In most people with healthy immune systems, treatment with antifungal medications isn’t necessary.”

However, if your symptoms are severe, see your doctor to make sure your body doesn’t need help fighting the infection.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT VALLEY FEVER “Once you’re infected with Valley fever, it remains in your system for life,” says Dr. Drachler. “Most people develop immunity to recurrent disease or progressive disease, but people with compromised immune systems can experience progressive disease or reactivation.”

On your mark, get set, go register!

Join Sun Health Foundation to walk or run for the women we love – our mothers, sisters, friends, partners, daughters, granddaughters, and cousins.

Proceeds benefit women’s health programs and services at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West through the Generosity for Generations Campaign.

Sunday, September 25, 2022 | 8 a.m. | Surprise Stadium

Scan to register at SunHealthFoundation.org/5K or contact Janine McGhee at Janine.McGhee@SunHealth.org, (623) 471-8503

TAKE THESE PRECAUTIONS TO MINIMIZE YOUR EXPOSURE TO THE FUNGUS: If you see a dust storm or receive a dust storm warning, head inside.

CLEAN COLONIC

COLON HYDROTHERAPY

If you’re in a car when a dust storm strikes, roll up the windows and keep the vents closed to avoid directly breathing the dust.

COLON HYDROTHERAPY: Also known as a Colonic

Install HEPA filters to improve the quality of the air you breathe inside.

New Client Special

If you’re experiencing symptoms that you suspect may be Valley fever, make an appointment with your doctor.

2 Colon Hydrotherapy Sessions for $150.00 Carolyn Berry Owner

For best results it is suggested two sessions, two days in a row.

4 Locations GLENDALE 18589 N 59th Ave #116

TEMPE 2034 East Southern Ave Suite B

SCOTTSDALE/PHOENIX 4744 E Thunderbird Rd Suite 4,

FOUNTAIN HILLS 16178 E. Avenue of the Fountains #100

TXT, CALL or Book Online www.cleancolonic.com | 480.269.5575 | info@cleancolonic.com UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 27

Neighbors

Hello Neighbor! night of the week but somehow, we made it work. I believe if you want to make a difference in your community you need to be an active participant.

MY FAMILY IS… my wife Amanda, son Bobby (14), daughter Bentlee (11), son Beau (9), and our dog Louie. My family is the most important thing to me, and we love to play outdoors and travel together.

HI, MY NAME IS... Brad Shafer I’VE LIVED IN PEORIA FOR 21 YEARS (WITH THE EXCEPTION FOR ABOUT FIVE YEARS WHEN I LIVED NEAR LUKE AFB), AND I LOVE IT BECAUSE... there are so many places to play.

A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… getting up early to swim laps or go to the gym. Then I either head downtown to the office or back to my home office to get a full day’s work done. During lunch and after work I catch up on city emails or other phone calls that I need to make and then I generally have various meetings in the evenings. Although I pack my schedule pretty tight, I make it a priority to get to as many sports practices and school events as possible and I never miss a game for any of my kids. I’m always bouncing around from one meeting to another, so organization is key for me. I like to get things completed and off my plate because I know there is always something else coming my way.

I’ve served on many boards and at one point I had a different board meeting every 28 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT IS… water. I was born to be near the ocean or a lake and I love to swim. Give me some water and a boat and I’m a happy man.

WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… a quarterback for the Denver Broncos. I watched John Elway growing up and one year my parents took me to Denver to see a game in person when I was about 14. I ended up getting a signed football from the entire team and I still have that football today.

THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS… nothing at all, and trust me, you’d thank me for my silence. I can’t carry a tune to save my life.

THE ONE PERSON WHO MOTIVATES ME IS… Pops, my grandfather. He was the hardest worker I know, and taught me the importance of hard work, getting a good education, how to keep my eye on the ball, and how many feet are in a mile (there’s 5,280 by the way).

THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS…LIFE! I love to joke around with people and laugh. Ask anybody and they know I’ve always got

something funny up my sleeve. In fact, my nickname during my military basic training was “Smiles” because no matter how bad things got, I always had a smile on my face. My mother is such a positive person and taught me to live life to the fullest and not to take life too seriously.

THE PERFECT DAY… would be spending the day up at Lake Pleasant with my family.

MY FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT IS… that’s a tough one. I have been involved on some level in many different organizations, but I would have to say any organization that has a focus on our veterans or first responders would be at the top of my list.

MY LIFE IS… BUSY! I like to stay busy, and I usually always have a few balls up in the air at any given time. Even when I’m at home, I don’t like to be idle. That probably comes from growing up in a house where my dad was always working on a project or having me help him with something.

THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS… probably this last Father’s Day, my wife and kids transformed our old shed into a boating storage area. She framed in one of the walls with a giant peg board with hooks and places to hang life jackets and ropes. Then topped it off with a wall of surfboard and wakeboard racks, rubber flooring, and bins for all the essentials. I love that my wife is handy with tools (and Pinterest) and that the kids each put their own personal touches throughout. It was so thoughtful and being former military, I like things nice and tidy so it’s the perfect gift for me.

MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE… with my family on the beach somewhere.

My family has recently discovered that we love to visit Costa Rica because of all the outdoor activities and beautiful beaches. In fact, when everything was closed down for COVID, we took the first open international flight to Costa Rica. We figured if we had to work from home and go to school from home, then home could be anywhere as long as we were together.

After work and school, we would spend our days at the beach and take weekend trips to the jungle. Over the course of two years, we’ve gone back several times and spent a combined total of three and a half months there.

THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED... would have to be to “Remember who you are and what you stand for.” My wife’s parents always said this to her before she left the house as a reminder to make good choices and always stand for what’s right. It’s become a household favorite and we often find ourselves saying to our children. It’s a great reminder for everyone.

myhyperlocalnews.com

Real Estate

602-299-0466

www.MendaBathUS.com

Holding Steady

The Real Estate Market Remains Stable

By Frank May, Real Estate Agent

I

IT PAYS TO REFINISH, IT COSTS TO REPLACE

think we’ve finally reached a point that the temperatures are hotter than the real estate market!

And that’s a combination of temps getting higher and the real estate market slowing down.

It has been two months since the last issue of The Upper Westsider and things did keep changing over those 60 days. In my last article, the inventory had gone up from 5,200 active homes to over 8,500 in about a month. In these past two months the numbers kept rising like the summer temps. We are currently right at 16,500 active homes on MLS. The good news is that for the past few days we have held steady right around 16,500. This is the shortest of time frames but good to see as we have been going up so fast every day. A few days at the same number stands out as a good thing.

One piece of positive/negative news is the Fed is currently looking at only a .75% increase in rates versus the 1% that was expected. It seems kind of like being excited that gas is only $4.50/gallon because it was just over $5. But, not too long ago, it was $2.

Are they playing psychological games with us? Maybe, but I’ll still choose to be happy with .75% versus the 1%. The bottom line is rates will go up and that will hurt the buying power of home buyers. If a buyer was purchasing a home for $750,000 and putting 10% down, a change of .75% interest rate would increase their payment by $331/month. To keep that same payment for the $750,000 you would have to lower your price range to $694,000. A drop in $56,000 of your purchasing power in a matter of minutes.

This is one reason buyers are wanting to get a home under contract right now. They have seen their pre-approved loan amount drop over the past months because of interest rate increases and they don’t want it to keep happening.

Also, the homes under contract have been decreasing over the past few months and that decrease has slowed over the past few weeks. That is a good sign for our market.

I’ll end this month’s article the same as last month’s myhyperlocalnews.com

Bathtub Refinishing from the Global Industry Leader Over 1 Million Refinished Bathrooms BEFORE

because it is the number one question I’m still getting from everyone––should I sell now? It still depends on your goal. It is very different for different people, and I’d love to talk to you about it. You can always give me a call on my personal cell at 623-203-1800.

AFTER

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

I will say if you are thinking of selling in the next six months to a year, it is probably better to do it now as opposed to waiting. As a seller, you have made the majority of your equity over the past few years, so any increase from here will be slow.

As strange as it seems, there was a time when I first started as a real estate agent that homes would increase 3 to 4% a year and that was normal! Crazy, right? In these past few years, you’ve had months where your home value increased 10%-plus in a month! And you have had multiple months like that.

And don’t worry if you think you are asking dumb questions, I can almost guarantee that multiple homeowners have had the same question. Do I need to paint the Pepto-Bismol color room? Replace flooring that doesn’t match other flooring? Remove fixed items that I want to take with me when I sell…and so many more! So, give me a call and let’s talk.

Frank May grew up in the Valley, graduating from Northwest Christian School and Northern Arizona University. He is a real estate agent with RE/ MAX Fine Properties and has been helping both buyers and sellers for over 20 years. He has been a Dave Ramsey Endorsed Local Provider (ELP) since 2003. Learn more at MayTeam.com.

• • • • •

Full Service Movers Home & Office Load, Unload & General Labor Packing Services & Supplies Junk Removal Services

Call Today for A FREE Estimate! ar

ss

e tr

S

u eG e Fr

ee

t an

Mention this ad for a special discounT Call Today to Book:

480.263.3044 or Book Online:

collegehunkshaulingjunk.com/west-valley MEMBER

LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED - LOCALLY OWNED FRANCHISE UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 29

AUGUST HAPPENINGS HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE

CHRIS ROCK EGO DEATH WORLD TOUR 2022

INCUBUS WITH SUBLIME W/ROME CRASH TEST DUMMIES

LOS CHICOS DEL 512: THE SELENA EXPERIENCE PRIVATE LIVES

When: Through Aug. 27 Where: Don Bluth Front Row Theatre, 8989 E. Via Linda, #118, Scottsdale What: Private Lives is a sophisticated, entertaining play written by Noel Coward and directed by animator and theatre owner Don Bluth. Elyot and Amanda, once married and now honeymooning in France with new spouses at the same hotel, meet by chance, reignite the old spark and impulsively run off together. After days of being reunited, they again find their fiery romance alternating between passionate infatuation and ferocious hostility.

Info: donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com

ON YOUR FEET! THE STORY OF EMILIO & GLORIA ESTEFAN

When: Through Aug. 28 Where: Phoenix Theatre, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix What: Infused with the heartbeat of Little Havana, this inspiring true story is about heart, heritage, and two people whose belief in their talent—and each other—catapulted them to international stardom. With a seductive beat and smoking hot choreography, On Your Feet! roars through up-tempo dance numbers with swirling skirts and swiveling hips, overflowing with heartfelt emotion.

Info: phoenixtheatre.com/the-season/your-feet-storyemilio-gloria-estefan 30 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE

When: Aug. 6 & 7 Where: Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale What: For the first time ever, Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live will visit Gila River Arena from August 6-7 for three epic performances. Fans of all ages will enjoy an exciting lineup of monster trucks as they experience the thrill of watching the iconic Hot Wheels Monster Truck toys come to life in a full-size, kid-focused, immersive Hot Wheels experience.

Info: hotwheelsmonstertruckslive.com

CRASH TEST DUMMIES

When: Aug. 12 Where: Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix What: It’s been more than 30 years since Crash Test Dummies recorded their debut album, The Ghosts That Haunt Me. That album included the hit “Superman’s Song” and won the band a Juno Award for Group of the Year in its native Canada. The group’s success continued with 1993’s God Shuffled His Feet, with songs such as “Mmm Mmm Mmm,” and “Swimming in Your Ocean.” The group parted ways at the end of the 1990s to pursue solo projects but reunited for a sold-out tour in celebration of the 25th anniversary of God Shuffled His Feet.

Info: mim.org/events/crash-test-dummies/

INAUGURAL SOUR & SWEET BEER FEST

When: Aug. 13 Where: The Clayton House, 3719 N. 75th St., Scottsdale What: Scottsdale-based Fate Brewing Company hosts the inaugural Sour & Sweet Beer Fest in Old Town Scottsdale. The new craft beer festival features more than 50 light and sour beers from 13 Arizona breweries, food from local food trucks, and live music.

What: General admission is $45 and includes a 1 p.m. entry, 15 tasting tickets and a commemorative glass, while the $65 VIP tickets add a 12 p.m. entry and a commemorative t-shirt. Admission for designated drivers is $10 and must be purchased with a VIP or GA ticket. Attendees must be 21 and over.

Info: https://bit.ly/3yXY2bl

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE

When: Aug. 14 Where: Orpheum Theater, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix What: The All Puppet Players invite you to enjoy a movie “classic” with them as they bring their fuzzy lunacy. The Orpheum Theater will house the R-rated puppets as they celebrate the 35-year anniversary of Masters of the Universe starring Dolph Lundgren, Frank Langella, and Monica Geller. Watch this crazy cult classic with the puppets as they scream at the screen, crack jokes, and basically question why this movie sits at 19% on Rotten Tomatoes!

Info: phoenixconventioncenter.com/events# myhyperlocalnews.com

INCUBUS WITH SUBLIME W/ ROME

When: Aug. 22 Where: Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix What: Two of the hottest rock bands in the alternative rock scene hit the stage to belt out their hits that range in genres from rock, alternative, ska, punk, and reggae.

Info: ak-chinpavillion.com

JIMMIE VAUGHAN

When: Aug. 24 Where: Musical Instrument Museum (MIM), 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix What: Texas blues guitarist Jimmie Vaughan has dedicated his life to making sure the blues not only stays alive but also remains full of life and an inspiration to all who listen. He is one of a handful of guiding lights making sure that the music stays true to its powerful source.

Info: mim.org/events/jimmie-vaughan

BUSINESS PROS CONNECT

When: Aug. 24 at 9 a.m.

Where: Elevate Coffee, 2530 W. Happy Valley Rd., Suite 1273, Phoenix What: Business Pros Connect is an Arizona-based networking group that offers a place for fellow entrepreneurs to form business relationships, bounce issues/ideas off each other and exchange referrals.

Info: facebook.com/groups/ BusinessProsConnect/

LOS CHICOS DEL 512: THE SELENA EXPERIENCE

When: Aug. 27

Where: Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave, Chandler What: The Selena Experience is the closest you can get to a live Selena concert! For seven years, the members of Los Chicos del 512 have lived and played to the remarkable music of the Queen of Tejano Music, Selena Quintanilla. These musicians have come together and orchestrated an extraordinary show that will have you back to 1995 within seconds of their first song.

Info: chandlercenter.org/events/loschicos-del-512-selena-experience-0

CHRIS ROCK EGO DEATH WORLD TOUR 2022

When: Aug. 28 Where: Arizona Federal Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix What: With a career spanning more than three decades, Chris Rock has enjoyed ongoing success in both film and television. America’s most hysterical comedian is coming to Arizona with this must-catch comedy event of the year.

Info: chrisrock.com

THE KILLERS IMPLODING THE MIRAGE TOUR

When: Aug. 28 Where: Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale What: The Imploding the Mirage Tour is the ongoing sixth major concert tour

by American rock band the Killers.

The tour supports their studio albums Imploding the Mirage (2020) and Pressure Machine (2021).

Info: thekillersmusic.com/tour

PUZZLE ANSWERS CROSSWORD ANSWER from page 34

...in this

hilarious Broadway Junior adaptation beloved series.

of Barbara Park's

Aug 12 - 28, 2022 | theaterworks.org Peoria Center for the Performing Arts | (623) 815-7930

Better Than an Apple

SUDOKU ANSWER from page 35

Order Online at

NothingBundtCakes.com Glendale, AZ 5890 W Thunderbird Rd, Suite 101 Glendale, AZ 85306 • (602) 938-9866

Surprise 15332 W Bell Rd, Suite 121 Surprise, AZ 85374 • (623) 200-5441

Delivery Available myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 31

Entertainment

Movie Reviews and Upcoming Release Dates

By Tony Beal

IN THEATERS

Elvis The story of the king of rock and roll from beginning to end.

The Black Phone A young boy receives calls from the dead after being kidnapped by a serial killer.

The Black Phone does a very good job at managing to keep a fast pace despite its locations being limited.

You’re enthralled by the imprisonment of Finney and his attempts to get out, while simultaneously seeing the supernatural side play out with his sister and her sort of detective story. All of this is obviously helped by the actors, specifically the child leads and Ethan Hawke’s rare turn in a villain role. But also, director Scott Derrickson gives the film the creepy, urban legend vibe that’s grounded by the 1970s setting. It’s the kind of pulp that still has some meat on its bones that was common from the horror genre 30 to 40 years ago, and it’s one any genre fan can enjoy.

32 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

David Cronenberg’s return to movie making is well-timed, and the focus on pollution and climate change and how it will affect our bodies is a horror that’s presented as a morbid beauty from the perspective of our characters.

Characters who will change their organs for art, pleasure, or to eat plastic, and each of the actors showcase those emotions from fascination to despair.

Léa Seydoux and Viggo Mortensen are of course excellent as a patient-doctor couple, but Scott Speedman stands out as an odd, sniveling figure whose life and work is falling apart around him. Howard Shore’s booming score is the defining feature to the apocalyptic world that’s just barely held together.

This is another reminder of what Cronenberg is capable of and how impactful his tales of human disasters are.

Visuals that showcase what might as well be from another world, but also a showcase of just how truly driven and passionate these two were—that pursuit of the discovery of something grand while keeping a loving relationship that still was a tightrope walk for the two of them. Miranda July’s narration is a perfect bow on top, to bring home the melancholic feel of it all. What a wonderful way to tell an underseen story.

NEW RELEASES AUGUST 5 • Bullet Train (Theaters) • Easter Sunday (Theaters) • Bodies Bodies Bodies (Theaters)

The musician biopic has been done to death at this point, and Elvis follows the traditional promising start followed by struggles route. However, like Rocketman before, it’s elevated by the unique approach to it, namely in how director Baz Luhrman makes the film feel like a rush, like we’re inside Col. Tom Parker’s dying fever dream as he retells his and Presley’s story. Hanks is quite good as the devious total POS of a manager.

Austin Butler steals the show as the title character in a performance that’s more resurrection than imitation. The over two-hour runtime does feel bloated in the middle section, though showing Elvis’ struggles with his aspirations towards activism makes it much more interesting, as well as the surprisingly somber note it ends on. It’s a nice reminder of a movie that shows how even the same stories can feel exciting with the right hook.

Crimes Of the Future The next stage of human evolution through organ metamorphosis is shown in the stories of three individuals.

I don’t know if I’ve ever seen home movies as beautiful as the Krafftt’s works shown in Fire of Love.

• Sharp Stick (Theaters) • They/Them (Peacock) • Prey (Hulu) AUGUST 12 • Mack & Rita (Theaters) • Emily The Criminal (Theaters, Limited) • Day Shift (Netflix) AUGUST 19 • Beast (Theatrical) AUGUST 26 • The Invitation (Theatrical) • Samaritan (Amazon Prime) Fire of Love The story of Katia and Maurice Krafftt, two scientists obsessed with volcanoes and their secrets.

• 892 (Theatrical, Limited) AUGUST 31 • Three Thousand Years of Longing myhyperlocalnews.com

JOJO’S PIZZA & FAMILY RESTAURANT

LAKESIDE BAR & GRILL

JoJos-Pizza.com

LakesideBarAndGrillAZ.com

MOCHILERO KITCHEN

CHARLEY’S SPORTS GRILL

ADDRESS: 6791 W. Happy Valley Rd., Ste. 100, Peoria PHONE: 623-440-5588 CUISINE TYPE: Mexican Open 7 days a week!

Weekend Brunch Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Mochilero Kitchen prides itself on preparing meals with the highest-grade ingredients with every dish made from scratch. From prime meats and poultry to farm-harvested produce, each meal is made by hand with the same care as we do for our families.

Book your next party with us! Each event is bespoke to your needs to provide a memorable experience.

ADDRESS: 8110 W. Union Hills Dr., Glendale PHONE: 623-322-6593 CUISINE TYPE: All American, Cocktails and Draft Beer Open since July 2020, we fashioned Charley’s to be a comfortable and welcoming neighborhood sports grill where you can meet family and friends while enjoying great house-made food, sports on 36 TVs, off-track betting, and live music every Friday and Saturday night. We have 23 beers on tap, including our Guinness, Smithwicks and Harp Towers. We are the proud winners of 18 Best of the West Valley awards including Best All-Around Restaurant, Best New Restaurant, Best Sports Bar and Best Bloody Mary.

MochileroKitchen.com

CharleysSportsGrill.com

Your Guide to Local Dining

ADDRESS: 23425 N. 39th Dr., 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, highquality mozzarella cheese, and your choice of over 20 fresh cut toppings, resulting in a tasty New York style pizza.

Bites

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 since 2008 with the best in burgers, brews, American and Southwest favorites. We have two dog-friendly patios to enjoy our daily Happy Hour outdoors, wall-to-wall TVs with all the big games and daily specials including our All-You-Can-Eat Friday Fish Fry. We offer growlers to go, and our food menu can be ordered for carry out at lakesidebarandgrillaz.com or delivered with DoorDash and Postmates.

THE LINKS NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL

Eat

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 AntiVirus 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.

TheLinksGrill.com

Bringing you a little sparkle and a sweet taste of heaven!

Hello! I’m Jamie and I LOVE baking delicious gourmet treats that sparkle and taste like heaven!

I’m a fully licensed and certified home-based baker located in Peoria, Arizona.

Let me help with your celebration, big or small!

602-633-5004 sparklingdivine.com info@sparklingdivine.com sparklingdivinebakedgoods sparklingdivinexoxo myhyperlocalnews.com

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Vanilla Chai Oatmeal Bars

Blueberry Crumble Bars Chocolate Covered Raspberry Cake

Chocolate S’mores Cake

Cowboy Cookies

S’mores Cookies

Chocolate Oreo

Cake

You can see all my menu items including pricing on my website www.sparklingdivine.com Gluten Free, Dairy Free & Vegan items available

Mocha Cold Brew Cookie

s

ANY ORDER OF $50 OR MORE Expires 9/30/2022

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 33

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD - THEME: CARS ACROSS 1. Fountain treat 5. Pharaoh’s cobra 8. “____ the Woods,” movie 12. Gulf V.I.P. 13. Native American tent 14. Rapper Dogg 15. Hindu princess 16. *Used to alert when driving 17. “____ ____ me, then who?”

18. *Corvette, e.g.

20. Cambodian money 21. *Like Stephen King’s Christine 22. “Some Nights” (2012) band 23. *Aston follower 26. State legislature’s home 30. 7th letter of Greek alphabet 31. *What I used to step on the gas 34. Lowest brass 35. Salon offerings 37. Exclamation of surprise 38. Fathered 39. Do like phoenix 40. Underarm 42. The Jackson 5’s “____ Be There” 43. 3 or 6 in 3+6=9 45. Knit cap 47. Shed tears 48. Winter Olympics participant 50. Embarkation location 52. *Earth traveler (2 words) 56. 2-time NBA Champion Rajon 57. Double-reed instrument 58. Muscovite or biotite 59. Lopsided 60. Undesirable dwelling 61. Causing pain 62. Like certain military tent 63. Between “ready” and “go” 64. #63 Across, pl.

DOWN 1. J. Lo’s ex 2. Wet nurse 3. *Don’t cross it when driving 4. Hot dish stand 5. Garlicky mayonnaise 6. Shopping ____ 7. Pub offering 8. *Car name that sounds like “unending” synonym 9. Opposite of all 10. Hammer or sickle 11. Choose or select 13. Like a rosebush 14. Maple goo, alt. sp.

19. French city, popular coronation location 22. Like a certain Tuesday 23. First ‘M’ in MGM 24. Aweigh 25. Turn toddler into an adult 26. Chicken house 27. Home of famous shroud 28. Obelus, pl.

29. Soup server 32. *Car company founded by a Henry 33. Unit of electrical resistance 36. *German luxury car 38. *Driving maneuver 40. Take your pick 41. In the same place, in a footnote 44. Cupid’s ammo 46. Smells 48. Expensive fur 49. Type of whip 50. Do like a model 51. Squid’s defense, pl.

52. Death, to some 53. Kamala Harris, e.g.

54. Not counterfeit 55. Dose of sunshine, pl.

56. *Car name that also means Aries

SOLUTION ON PAGE 31.

COMPLETE WILL & TRUST PACKAGE Affordable | Fast | Easy Document Package Includes:

Documents are written by expert Estate Planning Attorneys, customized to fit your needs.

34 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

• • • •

Full Will & Trust ALL POAs Certificate of Trust Asset Protection

• Funeral Instructions • Deed Work • Lifetime Updates & Changes Special Needs Trusts

*

Document Package is a ONE TIME fee with Lifetime Benefits*

ONLY $995

To get started with the process of establishing your essential documents, please call William E. Spar at (623) 889-3403, or send an email to wmspar@arptaxpro.com

www.arptaxpro.com myhyperlocalnews.com

SOLUTION ON PAGE 31.

myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 35

Business Directory HAIR STYLIST

ELSA RHODES

Never underestimate the power of a good hair day

DR STEAMER

623-824-3815

cotoiacatering@gmail.com

With

cotoiacatering.com Find us on:

1

#

IN CUSTOMER SERVICE

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Elsa has been in the hair industry for 20 years and has seen many trends come and go. Originally from Los Angeles, she joined Salon Blissful in Peoria and is fully committed to continuing the development of her skills to provide the latest hairstyles and techniques. Elsa is also fluent in Spanish. She is extremely passionate about helping you achieve your “hair goals” without comprising the health of your hair.

8265 W Happy Valley Rd Ste 105 Peoria, 85383 (909) 374-8415 Mobile (623) 213-8501 Salon

Private Chef Services

ElsaRhodesHair.com SalonBlissful.com elsahair@gmail.com @elsahairr elsa.rhodes

Corporate & Event Catering

CARPET, TILE & CARPET, GROUT CLEANING

Cooking experts for over 30 years NYC & LA food fusion including: Italian, Mexican, American, BBQ & smoked meats

FREE

Vegan & Vegetarian options available

TEFLON SHIELD CARPET PROTECTOR

We create a personal menu based on your needs

when cleaning all carpeted areas of home

Spring/Summer Maintenance per unit

CABINETS Garage Cabinets!

INSURANCE

Family owned and operated since 1984 and our employees appreciate your support!

INSURANCE AGENCY

as low as $17/month!

Call by AUGUST 31 and receive 15% OFF of an Reverse Osmosis System

Qualifying New AC units or 36 Months No Interest Financing

$59.00

Contact us today, we book fast!

JUNK REMOVAL

DRINKING WATER

Call Today 480-933-2387 www.Ecowateraz.com 112 W Julie Dr Tempe, AZ 85283

$500 OFF

Full or delivery services available

UNLIMITED Most municipalities add chemicals such as fluoride, chlorine and chloramines to treated water to help protect your teeth and to keep the water free of harmful bacteria.

ROC 311015

Woman owned and family operated

DOCTORSTEAMERAZ.COM

WATER HEATERS

602-884-0947 abideac.com

Licensed and Insured

623-581-1157

area of carpet or tile cleaning when cleaning 3 or more areas

Maintenance Repair Installation

Exclusive caterers at local resorts in Sedona

Specialists!

FREE

Abide Air Conditioning We’re Cooler Than the Rest!

Serving Peoria, Phoenix Scottsdale and Sedona

The Valley’s Premier

Hair Extensions + Full Service Hair

HVAC

CATERING

FLOOR CLEANING

AUTO

HOME

COMMERCIAL

LIFE

Professional Reasonable CALL OR TEXT 602-677-9451

Clean

www.FHJunkRemoval.com Surprise Scottsdale

Glendale

PHOENIX, AZ Sun City

Peoria Anthem

(602)337-2723 ambervoigt@allstate.com 12211 W Bell Rd. Ste. 203 Surprise, AZ 85378

STYLES TO FIT ANY BUDGET Veteran Owned

Garage Cabinets so nice you’ll want to leave the door open!

FREE in-home estimates SUMMER SALE $100 OFF CABINETS 16 feet or more. Expires 8/31/2022

480-456-6667 www.tritoncabinets.com ROC #336087

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES. MAKE A BIG IMPACT. 36 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

myhyperlocalnews.com

Business Directory Directory ELECTRICIAN

TAX PREPARATION

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

Keeping your lights on since 1998

Our electricians are highly trained and ready for any emergency electrical situation.

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE! 623-810-9788 • LakeElectricAZ.com lakeelectrician@gmail.com

: LakeElectricAZ

xtra Mile Painting Company Company

“Going the extra mile in service, craftmanship and cleanliness.”

- Joseph Pepp, President

WILLIAM E. SPAR

wmspar@arptaxpro.com Office: (623) 889.3403 Cell: (818) 402.6004 34975 N. North Valley Pkwy.

Phoenix, AZ 85086

www.arptaxpro.com

LIFE INSURANCE

PET SERVICES

DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE

GOT PET POOP? WE SCOOP!

Dog Waste Cleanup Cat Box Exchange Cat Grooming

LIFE INSURANCE WITHOUT MEDICAL EXAMS

Your LOCAL Family First Life Advisor

e: bryrosh.ffl@gmail.com c: 623-640-8924

FOR SALE

DO YOU KNOW WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DON’T ADVERTISE?

NOTHING CONTACT

888-313-7916 FOR YOUR AD

INSURANCE

Preferred rates based on health Call me for your NO-FEE CONSULTATION and get the best coverage available!

Read our Yelp reviews!

ROC # 299666

www.extramilepaintingaz.com

Upper Westsider Readers!

FREE

written estimates in 24 hours!

Mention this ad and receive

20% OFF

all interior and exterior work Call us today at

602.521.2662 ROOFING

Individuals | Self-Employed | Business Owners | Families Insurance underwritten by Freedom Life Insurance Company of America/national Foundation Life Insurance Company. All Products not available in all states.

Exclusions and limitations apply. Please see a licensed Agent for details.

Caitlin Witte, Licensed Insurance Agent Direct Line: (480) 589 1756 Email: Caitlin.Witte@ushadvisors.com

www.facebook.com/cfwadvisor

PLUMBING & MECHANICAL

Clean, Prompt, Friendly & Professional Service

SERVICING ALL TYPES OF ROOFING

• TILE • COATING • FOAM • SHINGLES

We partner with multiple carriers to bring our customers the BEST OPTIONS for their future BRYLEE ROSHETKO

PAINTING xtra Mile Painting xtra Mile Painting Company

www.cuttingcrap.com info@cuttingcrap.com 623-975-5386

SOCIAL MEDIA

REPAIR & INSTALLATION FREE ESTIMATES

602.471.2346

SUNLANDROOFINGLLC@GMAIL.COM

CLEANING J O H N S O N ’S

PAINTING

CLEANING

T H E TO TA L C L E A N I N G S P E C I A L I ST !

R E S I D E N T I A L & C OM M E R C I A L Have you given up on cleaning your house, and would like to see it emerge from under the dirt again?

We’re there for you. Looking for a daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or yearly service that you can trust?

Our staff is prompt, courteous, and friendly.

We understand what it takes to keep your home thoroughly clean.

LOOK NO FURTHER THAN JOHNSON’S CLEANING  THE ONLY SERVICE YOU WILL NEED TO STAY DIRTFREE AND SATISFIED!

(602) 770-8730 • ian@ospaintingco.com

$15 O F F

YOUR FIRST CLEANING WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD! NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY

AND, YES, WE DO WINDOWS!

6025691077

WWW.JOHNSONSCLEANINGSERVICES.COM

We provide the whole Valley of the Sun with RESIDENTIAL and COMMERCIAL INTERIOR and EXTERIOR PAINTING services. If it can be painted, we’ll paint it.

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

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 37

Getaway

Apache Gold Casino Resort:

WHERE LADY LUCK IS ON YOUR SIDE! Photos Courtesy of Apache Gold Casino Resort

L

ady Luck is in the house at Apache Gold Casino Resort. Located a few minutes east of Globe, just a short drive from Phoenix, the newly renovated property offers an enjoyable respite from the daily grind.

onsite restaurants include Apache Prime Steakhouse and Black River Grill.

Apache Prime Steakhouse has an elegant sense of style, flair, and sophisticated charm. If you’re staying at the resort or looking for one of the best restaurants in Arizona, you’ll find fresh and innovative dishes to satisfy. Whether you crave a refreshing starter salad, want to dig into a delicious top sirloin, or wish to Offering rest and entertainment amidst the wild desert landscape, the property is owned and operated snack on tasty appetizers like potato skins, chicken by the San Carlos Apache Tribe and is nestled within wings, and sliders, Apache Prime Steakhouse’s menu features many diverse options to fulfill your cravings. the rugged beauty and mesas of the Arizona desert Several a la carte sides like corn on the cob, baked amidst stately Saguaro cacti. macaroni & cheese, Apache bread, beer battered steak fries, green chili mashed potatoes, and baked Ideal for casino aficionados looking to explore the potatoes are available. Stack up sides to make for an Sonoran Desert, the Apache Gold Casino Resort is a 40-minute drive from the Picket Post Mansion and even heartier dinner entree or create your own dinner Boyce Thompson Arboretum; the oldest and largest with a variety of sides. botanical garden in Arizona, where you can discover Entrees vary in options, with steaks cut fresh daily and exotic cacti, vibrant wildflowers, and the best fall cooked to order. All entrees are served with houseand winter colors that the Southwest desert has to baked cornbread, grilled tomatoes, and the famous offer.

Apache Prime Steakhouse slaw, so whether you crave pork chops, Southwest chicken breast, ribeye, filet miThe freshly renovated property boasts 146 rooms gnon, savory lemon chicken, or a grilled salmon salad, recently redesigned with updated furniture, your entree comes alongside many delicious additions. upholstery, beds, and décor. Crisp bedsheets, fresh towels, and all the amenities you’d expect to ensure Meanwhile, Black River Grill is open when hungry your stay is relaxing and comfortable. In the coming happens. Named after the majestic Black River that year, pool renovations and the addition of a state-offlows through the San Carlos Reservation in Arizona, the-art business center will be completed. the restaurant is a favorite choice for casino and hotel guests searching for casual dining. A comfortable To complement the room updates, 252 new slot machines were added to the gaming floor, along with atmosphere with deep mahogany leather booths is the perfect backdrop while indulging in delicious the introduction of new themed games to join the handhelds from the tasty Apache taco to a classic classics in the casino. club sandwich. A full range of beverages include cocktails, wine, and beer.

The fun doesn’t stop when you’re done spinning.

There are plenty of table games to choose from, including classic three-card poker and blackjack. The There’s always something happening at Apache Gold Casino Resort, including their current promotion—the dealers are happy to deal you in at one of Apache 24 K Getaway. Simply booking a room allows guests Gold’s friendly tables. to take their receipts to the Players Club and redeem up to $144 in goodies such as $24 free play, a $24 gas The casino has partnered with the premier sports voucher, and a $24 meal ticket. Offers can be received betting app WynnBet Online Sports Betting to for up to two guests. enhance the Apache Gold experience. While onsite, visitors can enjoy betting and interacting online with like-minded sports aficionados while playing slots or For more information about specials or booking, visit apache-gold-casino.com. tables in person.

To satisfy your hunger cravings during your stay, 38 • August 2022 • UPPER WESTSIDER

This content is sponsored by Apache Gold Casino Resort. myhyperlocalnews.com

With Arizona's

Dog Day of ummer S Call NOW! NOW! 623-323-3998 Or Go Online www.healthyhomeflooring.co

LARGEST

Flooring Sale Ever!

ALL NEW FLOORING* *

2 weeks only or until supplies last.

60 months 0%Financing*

FREE Air Duct Cleaning *

Shop At Home Next Day Installation Lifetime Labor Warranty Exclusive customer installation tracking portal

Vinyl Plank Laminate Wood W Tile Carpet C

Dustless Tile Removal * Free ee Home Disinfectant * COUPON OUPON

$750

COUPON

*

OFF OFF

OFF OFF $ 1,500 $1,500 Pet Proof

Flooring Expires September 1st, 2022

*

Bundle Savings Discount

When you purchase both carpet & any hard surface together Expires September 1st, 2022

* Must present coupon or ad at the time of initial appointment. Offers are first appointment incentives only and only good if both decision-makers are present. Cannot combine offers. Dustless tile removal does not actually mean no dust, rather a lot less dust and still a construction site and will need professional cleaning. $9 a day based on 36-month financing including basic installation and product with 1000sf or less, and room size 12x15. Rooms greater in size or using upgraded flooring will add additional monthly costs. Does not include stairs or rip up. Financing is based on approved credit. $5,500 min purchase for free air duct cleaning. Free home disinfectant service makes no claims to kill COVID-19 or prevent it.

myhyperlocalnews.com

5 Stars

A+

Rating REVIEWS

ROC328401

UPPER WESTSIDER • August 2022 • 39

Call Frank at 623-203-1800 to schedule a time to discuss your home’s value

Some Wonderful sales in 85383 Homes and information courtesy of RE/MAX Fine Properties and MLS

Vistancia Village

West Wing Mtn.

Terramar

$600,000 • 1,834 sq. ft.

3 bd. 2 ba. • Bonus Room • Pool RV Gate • Corner Lot

$550,000 • 2,409 sq. ft.

4 bd. 3 ba. • Bonus Room • Pool Outdoor Fire Pit • Built-in BBQ

$795,000 • 2,322 sq. ft.

3 bd. 2.5 ba. • Bonus Room • Pool + Spa RV Gate • Corner Lot

Interested in joining a new networking group for the Upper West Side? Contact Frank May at 623-203-1800 and let’s support each other.

www.HomesOnLargeLots.com 623-203-1800 • frank@mayteam.com

FINE PROPERTIES

5$%T

The Frank May Team makes a donation on every home we close to The Wounded Warrior Project and to StreetLightUSA to help victims of child sex trafficking.

You can donate too: woundedwarriorproject.org and streetlightusa.org/donate

A Home Financing Team You Can Trust Whether you’re buying your first home and are in need of a loan with little to no money down, are purchasing your dream home, or are looking to refinance your existing home, we can help assess your financing options. Let us help you! ttg@fairwaymc.com | 602.288.8842 www.thetobiasgroup.com @ttg_thetobiasgroup

Programs to compete with CASH offers!

Ability to close in 2 weeks or less!

Copyright©2022 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS#2289. 4750 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-866-912-4800. All rights reserved. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Equal Housing Lender. AZ License #BK-0904162.