The Upper Westsider, November 2020

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November 2020

Vol. 2 • No. 2

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In This Issue City News..........................................4-11 Charity.............................................12-13 Kids’ Corner..........................................14 Family...................................................15

Home....................................................20 Health...................................................21 Business Directory..........................22-23 Must Watch..........................................24

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Crossword............................................26 Bites.....................................................27 Happenings......................................28-29 Getaway...............................................30

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Support for superior health and wellbeing through Sun Health Foundation is the catalyst for life-changing results in our community. Your charitable donations of time, talent and treasure, combined with proceeds from our resale shops, will have an impact for generations. It’s a true group effort and we encourage you to help. We welcome all opportunities to speak specifically about your interests in our efforts.

By supporting Sun Health Foundation, you’ll help ensure friends, neighbors, acquaintances and families in our community get the support and health care attention they need. We sincerely thank you for your consideration.

Learn more at SunHealthFoundation.org or call (623) 471-8500

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City News Happy Valley Road Bridge Public Art Project

By Bridget Binsbacher, Councilmember, Mesquite District, City of Peoria THE 303/ HAPPY VALLEY ROAD BRIDGE PROJECT IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF HOW EVERY ROAD PROJECT IS LOOKED AT

BY THE ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT TEAM AS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR FUNCTION AND BEAUTY. The art team was part of this project right from the beginning to ensure that this bridge would not only serve traffic and pedestrians, but also be a point of pride for Peoria citizens and visitors, while leaving a lasting legacy for the student artists involved. Art enhances the quality of life every day in Peoria and adds to the sense of place and community.

Four Peoria Unified School District elementary schools in the area of the bridge expansion project were selected to be part of the art inspiration and creation for the bridge pillar mosaics. The four schools are Zuni Hills, Sunset Heights, Lake Pleasant, and Vistancia. Local artist Kristine Kollasch was chosen for the project for her expertise in working with mosaics and her experience in

teaching students. She led workshops at each of the schools for the students to create drawings that represented the area. Twelve of those drawings were selected to be represented through

the creation of the mosaic art panels.

The artist worked with the students to create the individual ceramic tiles that are woven into the intricate designs of the final mosaic panels. The panels

measure 36” wide by 80” tall. Four of the art panels will be viewed from the traffic side of the bridge, and eight of the art panels will be viewed from the pedestrian side.

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City Ci ty NNeews Peoria’s West Valley Art Museum Showcases Unique Local Treasures THE WEST VALLEY ART MUSEUM (WVAM) RECENTLY KICKED OFF ITS 40TH YEAR WITH A ONE-OF-A-KIND EXHIBIT OF “TREASURES OF THE WEST VALLEY.” The exhibit will be on display through December 3. Following on the popularity of two previous exhibits in 2018 and 2019, the museum is pleased to show fine art, unusual quality decorative pieces, and artifacts on loan from private collectors. This exhibit is a rare opportunity for locals to admire art that would not otherwise be available for public viewing, according to WVAM. They have also included some paintings and quality prints recently acquired through bequests or donations to the WVAM extensive permanent collection.

This year, WVAM is also delighted to feature the work of some younger artists. The abstract contemporary designs of a talented college woman are themed with the photography and poetry of her mother. The quality fine pencil artistry of a 15-year-old young lady seems to show that design talent runs through many generations in this West Valley family. Also, on view is colored pencil work by a 27-year-old man with Down syndrome who, for two decades, has created and brought

recognition beyond Arizona to his intricate design patterns.

In addition to notable international, regional and local artists work, the exhibit includes examples of Sweetgrass Basketry from the Carolinas, unusual tribal artifacts from African countries, and finely stitched molas from San Blas Islands. In addition, attendees will definitely delight in seeing the 6-foot giraffe created by a Mexican artisan.

The WVAM Art Gallery is located on the first floor of Peoria City Hall at 8401 W. Monroe Street in Old Town Peoria. The wearing of face coverings is required as you enter City Hall. WVAM observes all protocols currently in effect including social distancing as you enjoy your visit to the gallery.

Regular WVAM Art Gallery hours are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m. For additional information, visit wvam.org or call 623-972-0635.

Gecko Climbing Gym Set to Open in Spring 2021 EXCITING NEWS IS ON THE WAY FOR NORTH VALLEY RESIDENTS WHO LIKE ADRENALINE PUMPING ACTIVITIES AND THOSE WANTING TO REACH NEW HEIGHTS WITH THEIR FITNESS GOALS. Construction has begun for Gecko Climbing Gym, located in Deer Valley, with a planned opening date of spring 2021.

“Our climbing facility will feature 30foot roped climbing walls and 15-foot bouldering walls,” says owner Chris Tansey. “Whether you’re an avid climber or new to the sport, Gecko Climbing Gym is for everyone.”

“We will offer instructional climbing courses, yoga and fitness classes, as well as host climbing competitions, youth teams, afterschool programs and parties for groups,” he continues.

This month, discounted Founder Memberships are available and locals myhyperlocalnews.com

are encouraged to purchase them before they hit full price, Tansey says.

The benefits of membership include, according to Gecko Climbing Gym: • Belonging to an “inspiring community” • Freebies • Free gear rentals • Unlimited access to climbing and yoga sessions • Free instructional class of your choice • One guest pass a month • Access to special events and symposiums “Explore our website for more info and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and help us spread the word,” Tansey says. “We can’t wait to meet you!”

To follow along on Facebook, find them at facebook.com/ GeckoClimbingGym and on Instagram @gecko_climbing_gym.

UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 5

City News Five Below to Open at Lake Pleasant Towne Center LAKE PLEASANT TOWNE CENTER WILL WELCOME FIVE BELOW TO ITS LINEUP OF TENANTS IN SPRING 2020. The rapidly growing retail giant will bring its $5-and-less fun to Peoria for the first time. Five Below’s Lake Pleasant Towne Center location will feature 10,818 square-feet of unlimited shopping possibilities for kids, teens and adults alike.

“Five Below is all about putting an emphasis on experience-driven retail, and we look forward to adding their upbeat, anything-goes environment to our lineup of family-friendly tenants at Lake Pleasant Towne Center,” says Angie Kory, vicepresident of leasing at Vestar.

One of the fastest-growing retailers in the world, Five Below carries an ever-evolving and super exciting assortment of essentials for work and school from home, cell phone cases and chargers, cool room décor, pet products, yoga pants, graphic tees, beauty and wellness items, licensed collectibles, baseballs and basketballs, a ton of candy and all the seasonal gotta-haves. Its stores are a vibrant, colorful and high-energy destination with extreme $1-$5 value, plus some incredible finds that go beyond $5.

Five Below will be among top retail destinations that

call Lake Pleasant Towne Center home, including Kohl’s, The Home Depot, PetSmart, Sprouts, Michael’s and many more. Five Below will be located in between Tuesday Morning and Ulta on the west side of the shopping center.

To learn more about Five Below, visit fivebelow. com. To learn more about how Lake Pleasant Towne Center is continuing to evolve, visit shoplptc.com or visit the center located at 9940 W. Happy Valley Parkway.

Honor Your Veteran on Peoria’s Honor Wall EACH YEAR THE CITY OF PEORIA HONORS VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES AT THE PEORIA VETERANS MEMORIAL LOCATED IN THE RIO VISTA COMMUNITY PARK AT 8866 W. THUNDERBIRD ROAD. The memorial consists of the Memorial Wall, Honor Wall and Senator John McCain Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza.

The Memorial Wall is an 88-foot long, black granite wall that gives special recognition to the five branches of the armed forces: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard. The Honor Wall is on the backside of the Memorial Wall and pays tribute to past, present and future veterans and their families.

The Senator John McCain Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza is dedicated to honoring Vietnam veterans and 6 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

the centerpiece of the plaza is a 1967 Bell UH-1H “Huey” helicopter that served 3,060 combat hours in Vietnam.

Ahead of Veterans Day this year, the city of Peoria is accepting new nominations for Peoria’s Veterans Honor Wall. Peoria residents can recognize an individual who has served in the U.S. military by reserving a space for their name and service details on the Honor Wall, an important and impactful element of Peoria’s Veterans Memorial. Each honor space will include the veteran’s name, rank, branch, and service years.

The new names will be placed on the wall by Wednesday, Nov. 11.

For more information about the Honor Wall or other Peoria veteran memorials, visit peoriaaz.gov. myhyperlocalnews.com

City Ci ty NNeews Crystal Lagoons Island Resort Coming to the West Valley GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT AND EXPERIENTIAL LEADER CRYSTAL LAGOONS® HAS CHOSEN GLENDALE FOR A ONE-OF-A-KIND ATTRACTION. ECL Glendale, LLC will develop Crystal Lagoons®, Island Resort, a mixed-use project unique to the Southwest.

The main feature of the project will be an 11acre Public Access Lagoon™ that will be up to 10-feet deep. Crystal Lagoons® is the world’s leader in water innovation and technology, which transforms any corner of the world into an idyllic beach paradise, making them the perfect fit for the Sports and Entertainment District of Glendale.

With developments across the globe including Dubai, Japan, Brazil and South Korea, the private investment by ECL Glendale, LLC once again puts Glendale on the world stage as an entertainment hub.

These monumental crystalline lagoons surrounded by white sand beaches can be accessed via ticketed entry. Crystal Lagoons® is internationally recognized for their contributions to communities and for the added value they bring to cities and regions.

“Crystal Lagoons®, the World’s Top Amenity ®, is excited to bring the first branded Crystal Lagoons®, Island Resort entertainment destination to Glendale, Arizona,” says Crystal Lagoons® Vice President Eric Cherasia. “As you will see in our announcements over the next few months, we have teamed with some of the world’s top attraction, entertainment, and hospitality brands to create the next wave in entertainment destinations.”

With the allure of year-round beach life and activities, Crystal Lagoons® catalyzes a wide array of revenue streams.

“We’re excited for this project on many fronts, but two really stand out,” says Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps. “Not only will this be a great example of experiential retail, which is the only area of growth in brick and mortar development over the past 10 years, but this project further cements Westgate as the largest Sports and Entertainment District in Arizona.”

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In addition to the lagoon, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy seven islands, each with their own theme, retail spaces, Fly and 4-D theaters, venue space, restaurants, a family entertainment center, amusement rides, office space, 600-plus hotel rooms, and more.

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“I am so excited and pleased to announce yet another private investment project for the evergrowing Yucca District,” says Yucca District Councilmember Joyce Clark. “It brings a new level of adventure, recreation and entertainment that complements our vision for the Westgate area. I thank our new, visionary partners for their confidence in Glendale as their location of choice.”

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Located at the Southeast corner of Cardinals Way and the Loop 101, the Crystal Lagoons®, Island Resort is expected to bring an estimated $700.8 million in new sales, property and bed tax revenues to the city, county and state over the next 25 years.

Glendale’s portion of the revenues are estimated at $240.5 million.

“I am so proud of the continued successes in the Sports and Entertainment District,” says Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers. “An amenity of this magnitude adds to Westgate’s mega event appeal and will generate significant revenue to support residents, businesses, and the state as a whole. A project of this type is a testament to the trust and faith that businesses continue to have in Glendale.”

Another key attraction with the resort that brings a unique food and beverage experience to visitors is Aerophile’s Aerobar. At 130-feet tall, it will be the highest element in the development and will provide guests a unique view of the Sports and Entertainment District and the Valley. Similar attractions already operate in France and Dubai.

The Crystal Lagoons® Island Resort is planned as a single-phase development that is expected to be open to the public in 2022 ahead of Glendale’s hosting of Super Bowl in 2023. Upon completion, the Crystal Lagoons®, Island Resort is estimated to bring 1,800 net new jobs to Glendale.

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City News HonorHealth Enrolls First Patient in the Southwest for Phase 3 Clinical Trial of Novel Drug to Battle COVID-19 Motorized Screens Security Screens

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HONORHEALTH RESEARCH INSTITUTE HAS BEGUN ENROLLING PARTICIPANTS IN A CLINICAL TRIAL AT THREE HOSPITALS WITHIN THE HONORHEALTH SYSTEM IN PHOENIX AND SCOTTSDALE TO STUDY AN INVESTIGATIONAL DRUG TO TREAT PATIENTS WITH COVID-19.

The randomized controlled Phase 3 trial compares the safety and efficacy of two different doses of the drug ruxolitinib to placebo in participants with COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) who are on a ventilator.

In a recently published article, the Journal of the American Medical Association reported that of the patients with PLACE COVID-19 who were hospiSTAMP talized, 14.2% were treated in the inHERE tensive care unit and of those patients, 85.9% received mechanical ventilation.

“For our sickest patients with COVID-19 infection, those in intensive care on ventilators, we are sorely in need of new options, this study could potentially reduce the duration of time that patients are intubated on ventila@ARROWHEAD tors,” stated Michael S. Gordon, MD, 6741 W Robert E. Lee St. Glendale, AZ 85308 principal investigator of the study. @SUNRISE MOUNTAIN @SILVER CREST

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Researchers throughout the country expect to enroll approximately 500 participants with confirmed COVID-19 infection that must have been confirmed two weeks prior to randomization. Participants must also be intubated and receiving mechanical ventilation at the time of randomization, among other criteria.

Prior studies have shown that many patients with severe respiratory disease due to COVID-19 have features con-

sistent with cytokine release syndrome (CRS), or “cytokine storm,” an uncontrolled and overwhelming release of pro-inflammatory proteins throughout the body.

Ruxolitinib is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of adult patients with intermediate or high-risk myelofibrosis, polycythemia vera after resistance or intolerance to hydroxyurea, and steroid refractory acute graft versus host disease. Ruxolitinib is not approved for the treatment of patients with COVID-19 ARDS who are on a ventilator, but positive clinical trial results could lead to a pathway for FDA approval for this use.

The study will compare two doses of ruxolitinib – 5 mg and 15 mg twice daily – plus standard of care to placebo for a period of up to 28 days.

The study, “A Phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study to assess the efficacy and safety of ruxolitinib in participants with COVID-19-associated ARDS who require mechanical ventilation (RUXCOVID-DEVENT),” is sponsored by Incyte Corporation, the manufacturer of the drug in the U.S. For more information on this study, including eligibility criteria visit ClinicalTrials.gov or email covidtrials@ honorhealth.com.

HonorHealth Research Institute continues to assess possibilities for improving the management of patients infected with COVID-19. The HonorHealth Research Institute is focused on expanding its portfolio of treatment options to help support patients and their families fighting COVID-19 in the community. myhyperlocalnews.com

City News The Seattle Mariners Announce Spring Training Season Dates THE SEATTLE MARINERS RECENTLY ANNOUNCED THEIR 2021 CACTUS LEAGUE SCHEDULE FEATURING 16 HOME GAMES AT THE PEORIA SPORTS COMPLEX AND 17 ROAD GAMES (INCLUDING TWO AGAINST THE SAN DIEGO PADRES AT PEORIA) FOR A TOTAL OF 33 SPRING TRAINING GAMES.

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The Mariners open the spring schedule on Saturday, February 27, against the Padres at the Peoria Sports Complex.

CACTUS LEAGUE ACTION All Cactus League teams will make a stop at the Peoria Sports Complex. Highlights of the Mariners home schedule include the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday, March 15, the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday, March 17, and the San Francisco Giants on Sunday, March 21.

The Mariners will meet American League West Division rivals a total of six times with home and road games against the Texas Rangers, Oakland Athletics, and Los Angeles Angels.

The Mariners conclude Spring Training with a pair of games against the Colorado Rockies on Monday, March 29, at Peoria, and Tuesday, March 30, at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale.

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UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 9

City News Make a Difference in the Lives of Foster Children This Holiday Season

By Tamara Webb, Director of Operations, OCJ Kids AS THE HOLIDAY SEASON APPROACHES, THE FOCUS OF OCJ KIDS REMAINS THE SAME: to impact Arizona’s foster children and create memories to last a lifetime.

Since 2006, OCJ Kids has provided opportunities for our local community to wrap around Arizona’s foster children who currently live in group homes.

Arizona currently has more than 15,000 children in the foster care system. Many of those children do not live with a traditional foster family, but live in group homes. OCJ Kids works with the group homes and with local Department of Child Safety offices to bring hope to these children.

As children enter the foster care system they often come with only the clothes on their back. From the moment children in Arizona enter foster care until the time

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they leave the system, OCJ Kids is involved in bringing hope to them. Diapers, wipes, pajamas, hygiene products and clothing are provided as they enter foster care. Transition suitcases filled with supplies and resources are provided to teens as they leave the system at 18. Every year, OCJ Kids hosts a career development fair, cowboy camp, back to school celebration, and Christmas bowling party.

During this COVID-19 pandemic, OCJ Kids provided toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaning supplies to group homes that were unable to locate these items. We have provided hundreds of cloth face masks, made and donated by our volunteers, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing spray for the group homes. As the schools begin opening and children return to the classroom, OCJ Kids is providing school supplies along with the necessary personal protection equipment required by the schools.

On December 12 - 13, OCJ Kids will

host our annual One Bright Star Christmas Bowling Party. Over the two days, more than 500 foster children and teens will have the opportunity to bowl, visit with Santa, and receive gifts from their wish list. You can be a part of creating memories and bringing hope to Arizona’s foster children. To purchase a gift for a child, visit Amazon’s charity wish lists and look for OCJ Kids One Bright Star. Your purchase can be shipped directly to OCJ Kids.

OCJ Kids is a qualified foster care organization. As an Arizona tax payer, you may be eligible to receive a dollar for dollar credit on your 2020 Arizona state taxes when you donate to OCJ Kids.

The Arizona Tax Credit allows taxpayers to decide where their tax dollars are going to be spent by choosing a qualified charity to donate your tax dollars. Individual tax payers may donate up to $500 and joint filers may donate up to $1,000.

To make your Arizona Tax Credit donation, visitocjkids.org/donate.

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A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 623-522-6066, TTY 711. You do not have to be a veteran to be eligible for this plan.

be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 623-522-6066, Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Companyand or one of its affiliated companies,ofa Medicare organization with acall Medicare person will present with information applications.

For accommodation persons withAdvantage special needs at sales meetings, 623-522-6066, ot have to be a veteran Atosales be eligible forbethis plan. contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract with ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved.

TTY 711. You do not have to be a veteran to berenewal eligible for thisMedicare. plan.

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Enrollment in the plan depends onMedicare. the plan’s renewal withHealthCare Medicare. ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights A sales person will bewith present withcontract information and applications.

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do not have to be a veteran to be eligible for this plan.

We work for YOU !!

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www.TatumInsurance.com

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Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved.

Y0066_21SPRJ56025_C

10 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

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City News

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Paloma Community Park has Something for Everyone

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THE CITY OF PEORIA RECENTLY OPENED PALOMA COMMUNITY PARK WITH SEVERAL ADAPTIVE AND INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS TO WELCOME INDIVIDUALS OF ALL ABILITIES. The city partnered with physical therapists and disability experts from the Peoria Unified School District (PUSD) and Dignified Changes to create a space everyone could enjoy.

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cessibility with inclusivity, making it a perfect place for children of all abilities to get to experience such a simple but essential part of childhood.”

“We are thrilled with Paloma Community Park and our partnership with the city of Peoria on this project,” says Dr. Michelle Wagoner, the occupational and physical therapist department lead for PUSD. “As physical therapists, we know the importance of play for all children and we also see and hear firsthand some of difficulties children with disabilities have participating in something many take for granted: a trip to the park. Paloma combines ac-

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Paloma Community Park has a communication board for nonverbal individuals, ramps, and wheelchair access points on the playground equipment for persons of all abilities. Paloma is also one of the first parks in the state that now includes adult-sized changing tables in the park’s restrooms.

Additionally, the restroom stalls are wider and include several bars for stabilization and other needs.

“We are grateful that the city of Peoria is listening to the needs of all of its citizens, specifically their residents living with a disability. With their installation of a universal changing table at Paloma Community Park, individuals that require assistance when toileting are now able to be changed with dignity and not be subjected to lying on a filthy bathroom floor,” says Nicole Anderson, co-founder of Dignified Changes, an organization dedicated to ensuring privacy and dignity is afforded to all individuals using a restroom. “Many thanks to Peoria’s incredible leadership team for inviting us to the conversation and planning of this beautiful new space for our community.”

To learn more about the diverse amenities of Paloma Community Park, visit peoriaaz.gov/paloma.

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WWW.SUNNWEST.COM UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 11

Charity Sun Health Foundation’s Upcoming Community Events

T

he community is invited to Sun Health Foundation’s Heroes with Heart Virtual Gala at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7. Virtual doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Join Sun Health Foundation on Zoom as they honor Rajeev S. Kathuria, MD, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon (Heroes with Heart Honoree), and Vituity Healthcare and Medical Staffing Services (Corporate Heroes with Heart Honoree) for their dedication to superior healthcare in our community.

The Gala also commemorates the 50th Anniversary of Banner Boswell Medical Center and benefits the medical center’s Emergency Department and Patient Care Transformation. Adding to the excitement is Thaddeus Rose Band, an online auction emceed by Bobby D. from Inspire Hearts Fundraising, and prize drawings.

To RSVP, contact Janine McGhee at Janine.

McGhee@SunHealth.org or 623-471-8503. When you RSVP, you’re invited to share your tribute message or testimonial in honor of Dr. Kathuria, Vituity, or any Hero with Heart.

Sun Health Foundation appreciates the generosity of sponsors to date, including Banner Health, Edward Lifesciences, Orcutt|Winslow, CornerStone Partners, Northern Trust, and Zion & Zion.

WALK FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH ON SUNDAY, DEC. 6 Join Sun Health Foundation for this FUN-raising 5K event, offering different ways to participate.

Whichever way you choose, you’re not only supporting your health but also the health of women and families in our community. The event benefits Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center’s Women and Infant Services. For more information and to RSVP: Contact Janine McGhee at janine. mcghee@sunhealth.org or 623-471-8503.

As Sun Health Foundation plans these events, special consideration is being given to the times we’re in and the heightened need to be safe. Rest assured your health and safety are the top priorities.

Sun Health Foundation champions superior health and wellbeing through philanthropy, inspired living and wellness programs. For more than 50 years, the

community – through Sun Health Foundation – has invested in the infrastructure, programs, skilled professionals, and innovations that make the West Valley the premier place for active, independent living. Sun Health Foundation is the exclusive philanthropic partner to Banner Boswell and Banner Del E. Webb medical centers. Learn more at sunhealthfoundation.org.

Should You Switch Medicare Plans?

By David Luna, Connie Health

H

ealthcare is expensive and constantly changing, especially for those 65 and older. That’s why trusted local experts – like our team at Connie Health – recommend you review your Medicare plan every year.

Here are some things to consider, as open enrollment is now through December 7: Are you getting the best deal?

Every year, smart shoppers find ways to save hundreds of dollars by switching to a Medicare Advantage plan. And even if you are already on a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be able to find a plan with lower monthly premiums and copays. On a $0 premium plan already? If so, you can still check if there are plans that cover your prescription drugs at a substantially lower cost than you are paying now.

You can ensure that the plans with lower rates include the doctors that you go to and trust.

Are you on the plan you need?

Now is the time to review your current plan to make sure you have the right plan for your needs. If you are on a Medicare Supplement plan, for example, switching to a Medicare Advantage PPO plan can potentially save you thousands of dollars on premiums and get you extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare such as dental,

12 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

vision, hearing and more. In recent years, Medicare Advantage PPO plans have become increasingly popular because they combine the lower premiums of Medicare Advantage with the out-of-network benefits that allow you to see any doctor, similar to a Medicare Supplement plan.

Are you getting the care you deserve?

In recent years, many Americans on Medicare have experienced a lack in access to quality care. For some, it might be difficult for you to find quality doctors. For others, it might be that you have a good doctor, but they are not currently accepted by your insurance plan. You might be surprised that by switching your Medicare plan you might unlock opportunities for additional services.

Are you getting the most out of your Medicare plan?

Not all plans are created equal when it comes to benefits.

Even if you have a $0 premium plan, getting a plan that covers the benefits you care about might save you even more money. Medicare Advantage plans cover benefits like dental, vision, hearing and gym memberships. They can even cover over-the-counter health and wellness products that you might be paying for out-of- pocket. Each plan covers these benefits in a different way, and it is important to find the plan that covers the benefits you care about.

Luckily, with our easy-to-use Connie Health online tool and local agents, who are available 7 days a week during

the Medicare Annual Election Period, you can review the benefits you care about and see which plan covers them best.

Do you feel overwhelmed by the idea of switching plans?

Now through December 7 switching Medicare plans is easier than you think. Simply visit www.ConnieHealth. com or call 623-223-8884 to speak to a local Connie Health licensed Medicare agent for 100% free assistance.

Connie Health Valley agents understand the local plans and healthcare networks and are best positioned to help you make the right decision. The team can meet you in person with masks, via video, or over the phone to answer any questions you might have. When you enroll with Connie Health you will be automatically enrolled in a white glove service and will continue to get support with your healthcare questions or issues after you enroll in a Medicare plan.

David Luna is the co-founder of Connie Health, a free, personal Medicare advisory service combining the power of Medicare expertise, local agents and data-driven insights, to help individuals make confident and informed decisions about their Medicare coverage. myhyperlocalnews.com

Charity A New Twist on a Holiday Tradition: Duet’s 30th Annual Poinsettia Tea Goes Virtual on Dec. 6

E

njoy tea and treats from the comfort and safety of your own home while supporting local nonprofit Duet: Partners In Health & Aging. A holiday tradition 30 years in the making, this year’s Poinsettia Tea will take place virtually from 2 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 6.

“This year, the entire event will be streamed online to keep everyone safe while directly supporting our vital mission to promote health and well-being through vitally needed services to homebound adults, family caregivers, faith communities, and grandfamilies,” says Duet Executive Director Ann Wheat. “One of the benefits of the event being virtual is that you can gather together with your family and friends near and far, bringing multiple generations together, all for the greater good.

We hope new and established Duet supporters can join us for this action-packed hour of fun and philanthropy.”

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Those who register by November 15 will have the option of receiving a unique Poinsettia Package filled with tea, coffee, delectable treats, and fun prizes tucked inside. The 30th annual Poinsettia Tea will feature heartfelt stories about Duet’s impact in the community and guests will enjoy the festive sounds of The AmesApperson Duet. Destry Jetton, Arizona Midday host, will serve as the emcee.

There will also be an online auction and fun surprises to keep guests entertained and engaged. Tickets to the Poinsettia Tea are $75. Guests can register for the tea online at duetaz.org/tea.

All proceeds raised from the Poinsettia Tea will support Duet’s vitally needed health and well-being services that are provided free of charge for family caregivers, grandparents raising grandchildren, homebound adults, and faith communities. SRP is the event’s Platinum Sponsor.

Visit duetaz.org/tea to register for the 30th annual Duet Poinsettia Tea.

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UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 13

Kids’ Corner CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS

Arizona-Style

By Jill “MamaBug” Frier

I

t is the season for the wonders and magic of the holidays. Arizona brings its own special flavor to the holidays, with western scenes, cowboy Christmas celebrations, stunning luminaria displays, and unforgettable desert magic.

Nothing warms the heart on a cold evening like the glow of lights and luminarias, soft music, and holiday cheer. Here are a few places to make your holiday in Arizona one to remember. As with all events during the pandemic, please visit the venue’s website or call first to confirm details. Please also keep in mind COVID-19 safety precautions—mask up and don’t forget the hand sanitizer!

PRESCOTT: A FRONTIER CHRISTMAS AT SHARLOT HALL December 5, 6 - 8:30 p.m. sharlothallmuseum.org/festival/frontier-christmas One of our favorite places to visit in Arizona is Prescott, dubbed “Arizona’s Christmas City” during the holiday season. The Annual Frontier Christmas at the Sharlot Hall Museum is a featured holiday highlight of Prescott, with luminarias, hand-made decorations, fresh-baked cookies and hot cider to welcome locals and out-of-town visitors. You can celebrate the holiday spirit and good cheer of the Old West on the Museum grounds, immediately following the Prescott downtown courthouse lighting ceremony at 6 p.m.

PHOENIX: LAS NOCHES DE LAS LUMINARIAS Select days from November 27 - December 31, 5:30-9:30 p.m. dbg.org/events/las-noches-de-las-luminarias-2020 One of our favorite holiday traditions every year is visiting the Desert Botanical Garden to see Las Noches de las Luminarias. This year, there will be more than 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags lining many of the trails throughout the Garden each evening. The lovely, twinkling pathways wind through the garden paths and lead to nine different musical entertainment areas, and dinner and warm refreshments are available each night. Las Noches

14 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

de las Luminarias is a perfect event to celebrate the beauty and magic of the holiday season in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert.

TUCSON: PATRONATO’S CHRISTMAS AT SAN XAVIER Details to be announced in mid-November patronatosanxavier.org/christmas-concerts Twenty four years ago, Linda Ronstadt headlined the first Christmas concert at the Mission San Xavier, beginning a beloved tradition that now marks the beginning of Tucson’s holiday season. This signature series of concerts raises funds for Patronato, a nonprofit organization devoted to restoring and preserving the historic Mission San Xavier for future generations.

These holiday celebrations are just a few of the festive events that take place around our state, but all will make special holiday memories for you and your family while you celebrate the season.

Be sure to read ladybugsblog.com for more information about celebrating the holidays in the unique, festive, truly Western spirit of Arizona.

FLAGSTAFF: A WINTER WONDERLAND flagstaffarizona.org A favorite winter destination, you haven’t celebrated an Arizona Christmas until you’ve experienced the holiday season in Flagstaff. With gorgeous weather, there’s a public movie series, photos with Santa, downtown shopping, tree lighting, ice skating, and more! Of course, keep in mind COVID-19 precautions, so don a mask before you stroll downtown for some hot cocoa and holiday fun. We recommend the staying at Little America Hotel to make your holiday adventure complete.

PHOENIX: ZOOLIGHTS! TOGETHER WE ALL SHINE November 7, 2020 – January 31, 2021 phoenixzoo.org/events/zoolights/ The Valley’s most cherished holiday tradition is back with millions of twinkling lights, dazzling animal sculptures and the Wildlife Lantern Safari, featuring 66 creatures — polar bears, mammoths, peacocks and more, all aglow. And this year, there’s a NEW way to feel the magic. Cruise ZooLights, the drive-thru experience that is not to be missed. With expanded trails and new sights and sounds, ZooLights is bigger, brighter and better than ever. You can also walk ZooLights on select nights. Check the website for more details.

myhyperlocalnews.com

Family TheaterWorks Creates Holiday Immersive Theater Production

F

ollowing the massive success of TheaterWorks’ revolutionary immersive theater experience CURIOUSER & CURIOUSER, the theater announces a new holiday version of the production opening November 27, A CURIOUSER NUTCRACKER. Wonderland has been taken over by the Mouse King and is stuck in an eternal winter. A CURIOUSER NUTCRACKER travels through Winter Wonderland with the White Rabbit and the Sugar Plum Fairy to find the four keys that activate the device that will defeat the Mouse King and free the Nutcracker.

Filled with snow and the traditional music of Tchaikovsky, A CURIOUSER NUTCRACKER catapults you into the worlds of Alice in Wonderland and The Nutcracker. This familyfriendly, holiday version of CURIOUSER & CURIOUSER continues the safe and intimate approach to live theater developed by the theater in response to the pandemic restrictions. Audience members walk through every theater, rehearsal space and hallway in the Peoria Center for the Performing Arts experiencing winter Wonderland intimately.

Up to 12 audience members per performance will experience this 100-minute immersive theater production flowing through each room exploring, solving puzzles, encountering inhabitants, and experiencing live theater in a new and safe way.

“The holidays are an important time for the community to engage in traditional stories that help us celebrate this time of togetherness. Our new immersive theater experience will allow people to still have those traditions and participate safely,” says TheaterWorks Managing Director Cate Hinkle.

In order to create a safe space for both audience members and actors, audience members will be required to wear face coverings, temperatures will be taken upon arrival, gloves will be provided to audience members to wear throughout the experience, all touch points will be sanitized between groups and a thorough deep clean will take place each evening, in addition to other safety protocols put in place.

This production is supported by the Constance W. McMillin Trust, Thom and Shelley Gyder, the City of Peoria Arts Commission, APS, Peoria Mayor

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Cover Story

West-MEC

Career-driven, student-focused educational opportunities

T

hroughout 2020, schools and students alike have faced unprecedented challenges. Now, as Arizona starts to revive, students are looking for the education option that best fits their needs. Some schools are offering online learning while others are offering a hybrid learning model. Western Maricopa Education Center (West-MEC), a local public career and technical education district, has returned to their in-person, hands on learning model, which is necessary for the variety of programs and certifications they offer.

With four campuses throughout the North and West Valley and more than 37,000 students from 48 high schools from districts in the Phoenix Metropolitan area, West-MEC offers an assortment of funded programs designed for students that are looking for unique career pathways after high school graduation.

West-MEC students can earn a certification and gain employment immediately after high school or apply their experiences and knowledge to their next level 16 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

of traditional education. There are a variety of career programs for students and families in North Phoenix and nearby communities.

“Today, more than ever, it’s vital that students understand the application of academics to real-world careers,” says West-MEC Superintendent Greg Donovan. “The United States is, and will be, in need of a highly trained and skilled workforce for the 21st century. We are grateful for the opportunity to develop new and thriving educational centers where students are empowered to participate fully in the economy.”

West-MEC’s focus is on the delivery of quality, comprehensive, articulated, industry-validated programs, facilities, equipment and resources that include classroom instruction, laboratory instruction, work-based learning, and a Career and Technical Student Organization.

The Northeast Campus features West-MEC’s Automotive Collision Technology, Automotive

Technology, General Construction Technology, Medium/Heavy Diesel Technology, Coding, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician, and Veterinary Sciences programs.

Those with specific career aspirations such as Alexia Schuyleman, a senior in the Northeast Campus Veterinary Sciences program, can get a head start on the competition for college after high school graduation. The two-year program she has enrolled in will teach her how to deliver medical care to domestic, exotic and large animals, i.e. cats, dogs, reptiles, and birds.

“I’ve wanted to be a veterinarian since I was five-yearsold. Being here and in the profession and having the knowledge is important so when I am working in a clinic, I’ll have that experience to know how I can help right away. That was the biggest thing that drove me to West-MEC,” Schuyleman says.

Veterinary Science students have the opportunity myhyperlocalnews.com

to assist a certified veterinary technician and/or veterinarian in surgery, run laboratory tests, obtain animal vitals, and provide daily care and enrichment to the animals up for adoption. This program prepares students to be a vital part of the veterinary team, working together to save animal lives.

The Veterinary Sciences program is not the only healthcare related certification a student can obtain at West-MEC’s Northeast Campus, either. Students can participate in the Medical Assisting or Pharmacy Technician programs, as well as other trades such as General Construction Technology or Automotive Collision Technology.

Pharmacy Technician program instructor Audrey Stewart said that every graduate of her one-year program is eligible to test and be employed as a pharmacy technician. Should students choose to further their education at a university or pursue additional healthcare-related careers, they will already have an advantage.

“Anyone my age when I describe what I do says, ‘I wish they had that when I was in high school,’ and the amazing part is that the students all have an inkling in what they want to do. I don’t expect them to all come in to be pharmacy technicians for life or to become pharmacists, but they have an interest in healthcare.

So, I try to keep it broad so they can have success in whatever they choose to do in the end,” Stewart says.

“The best part is that it gives them flexibility with full-time options with benefits, or part-time while pursuing other options such as college or other education.”

West-MEC’s Northwest campus offers many of the same programs as its sister locations, but a unique aspect of the Northwest Campus is the Biomedical Science program.

“This comprehensive and accelerated program invited students to participate in the vast field of biomedical science including work in forensics, anthropology, biomedical engineering, and more,” says instructor Tye Helm.

myhyperlocalnews.com

Helm adds, “West-MEC’s Biomedical Science program bridges the gap between academics and industry by instilling vital biomedical skills and techniques, core knowledge, and professional softskills for students to enter the laboratory technology field prepared. Furthermore, the program follows a student-centric, research-based, teaching paradigm that prepares students for the field in the same manner as leading medical schools in the nation.”

‘‘

West-MEC’s Northwest campus also offers a Medical Assisting Program for those students interested in healthcare.

interns learn applicable job and social skills that help make them valuable employees.

The Project SEARCH students are fully engaged in both classroom and on-the-job learning experiences through worksite rotations, giving them not only knowledge but also confidence to succeed in their future workplaces.

“The steps you see the students take are amazing,” says Job Coach Lyntasha Barrett, whose own daughter went through the program several years ago. “They’re nervous and a bit stressed out at first, but then they blossom into confident and happy adults. And, when they go on to get a job and do well in their careers, it’s a wonderful sight to see.”

Today, more than ever, it’s vital that students understand the application of academics to real-world careers.

The two-year Medical Assisting Program prepares students with the necessary clinical and administrative knowledge to become entry-level medical assistants. Students will receive handson training and learn how to properly administer injections, take vital signs, record EKGs, implement basic accounting procedures, and understand the fundamentals of patient documentation.

West-MEC does not limit its instruction to traditional high school students, either. The district offers a variety of adult education courses to those wishing to make a career change or become certified for indemand job opportunities.

In addition, West-MEC also boasts its Project SEARCH Program. Project SEARCH is an international program that helps empower young adults with disabilities to help them make a successful transition from school into a professional career. Participants are taught relevant, marketable skills while immersed in the working world. Student

West-MEC is a public school district and receives its funding from the state of Arizona.

About 68 percent of its funding comes from the state and the remaining 32 percent comes from the CTED (Career and Technical Education District) voter-approved measure. The majority of West-MEC’s instructional budget is designated to 12 Member School Districts that teach satellite programs.

This funding helps support CTE programs, Career and Technical Student Organizations training, student grants, and professional development for teachers. The remainder of the funding goes toward West-MEC operated programs.

Applications for all of West-MEC’s CTE programs went online in early October for the next academic year. High school students can access the application online at system.west-mec.org/application.

For a full list of programs at each West-MEC campus, visit west-mec.edu/career-programs.

UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 17

Shopping Farmers Markets Across the Valley Welcome Locals this Fall

By Jill Frier Photos Courtesy of Farmers Market on High Street

N

ovember is the perfect time of year in Arizona to get out and enjoy the weather and one of the local farmers markets in the Valley of the Sun. Here are a few of the farmers markets in the metro area – be sure to check the website before you go to make sure you are aware of any restrictions in place.

Of course, be sure to adhere to COVID-19 safety guidelines when you go, including wearing a mask, and don’t forget to pack that hand sanitizer!

PINNACLE PEAK FARMER’S MARKET Pinnacle Peak Farmer’s Market is a weekly Saturday morning market on Pinnacle Peak and 43rd Avenue in Glendale, located in the parking lot of Hurricane Harbor Water Park.

Hours: Open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon Address: 4243 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Glendale Website: facebook.com/ pinnaclepeakfarmersmarket FARMERS MARKET ON HIGH STREET The Farmers Market on High Street is a weekly Sunday morning market located in the High Street shopping district at 56th Street and the 101 Freeway.

Hours: Open Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Address: 5415 East High Street, Phoenix Website: highstreetaz.com/farmers-market ANTHEM FARMER’S MARKET The Anthem Farmers Market is a weekly Saturday morning market located in the Anthem Veteran’s Memorial Park.

Hours: Open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Address: 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Phoenix Website: arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets. com/anthem-farmers-market DOWNTOWN FARMER’S MARKET The Downtown Farmer’s Market is a weekly Saturday morning market located on Central Avenue and McKinley.

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

Address: 721 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Website: downtownphoenixfarmersmarket.org 18 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

UPTOWN FARMER’S MARKET Uptown Farmers Market is a weekly Saturday and Wednesday morning market on the southeast corner of Central Avenue and Bethany Home Road, located on the grounds of the North Phoenix Baptist Church.

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

Wednesday is currently closed for the season.

Address: 5757 N. Central Ave., Phoenix Website: uptownmarketaz.com ROADRUNNER PARK FARMER’S MARKET The Roadrunner Park Farmer’s Market is a weekly Saturday morning market located in northeast Phoenix near Paradise Valley Mall between the 51 Freeway and 36th Street.

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

Address: 3502 E. Cactus Road, Phoenix Website: arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets. com/roadrunner-farmers-mkt OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE FARMER’S MARKET The Old Town Scottsdale Farmer’s Market is a weekly Saturday morning market located in Old Town Scottsdale on 2nd Street and Brown.

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

Address: 3806 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale Website: arizonacommunityfarmersmarkets. com/old-town-scottsdale ARROWHEAD FARMER’S MARKET The Arrowhead Farmer’s Market is a weekly Saturday morning market located on the north side of the Arrowhead Town Center mall parking lot in front of the old Sears building next to the AMC movie theater.

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

Address: 7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale Website: getlocalarizonaevents.com/ saturdaymarket These are just a few of the many farmers markets open around the Valley for the fall and winter season, so we recommend visiting these or researching ones in your own neighborhood.

For information about other fun activities and events in Arizona, read ladybugsblog.com. myhyperlocalnews.com

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UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 19

Home Eight Crucial Things to Consider When Building Outdoor Kitchens Contributed by BBQ Island

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utdoor kitchens are luxurious and rewarding additions for any backyard patio. Of course, you cannot just snap your fingers and manifest all this stuff from nowhere. Anyone interested in having his or her own outdoor kitchen must plan out as much of the layout as possible.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION If you want to install an entire second kitchen on your property, then you better have enough space for everything. You must also choose the best spot for all your appliances. Many enthusiasts choose to have it flow with the indoor kitchen. On either side of that window, you can see something cooking. The decision may come down to the current location of your sources for water and power.

SEPARATE THE ZONES Every professional kitchen is divided into zones. These distinct areas are reserved for specific activities, and appliances are installed accordingly. Restaurants do this for the convenience of chefs. Even if you want an outdoor kitchen for your own reasons, using this principle for the layout can come in handy.

PRE-MADE OR CUSTOM? Speaking of layouts, there are two choices for purchasing backyard food preparation equipment. You could order complete BBQ islands and all-in-one outdoor kitchen sets. These bundles contain multiple appliances and structures for a single price. They may also come with a specific layout. Options may include linear designs, L-shaped layouts, and more.

INSTALL PROPER VENTILATION Your cooking equipment will produce smoke, gas, and smells when you use it. If they build up without any release, they could damage the appliances. Worse, they could ignite and cause a disaster. Vent hoods and panels redirect the smoke away from your food, your guests, and yourself. In the event of a leak, they could also minimize the risk by giving it all somewhere to go.

LEAVE ROOM FOR STORAGE Chefs need plenty of tools at their disposal. They need spatulas for flipping, tongs for grabbing, and meat forks for poking. They need thermometers for checking if raw meats are thoroughly cooked. Cleaning the BBQ requires its own set of instruments. Outdoor kitchens should give people enough cabinets to hold all these tools and any others they may use.

ACCOUNT FOR THE WEATHER Any appliances you put outside your home should be labeled “rated for outdoor use.” This type of equipment is made from hardy materials and designed with certain protective features. For example, outdoor refrigerators can keep their contents cool even on hot days. They also do not rust or lose their color, and many often take up little space in a potentially crowded kitchen space.

GET APPLIANCES YOU WILL ACTUALLY USE Speaking of choosing appliances, there are many different machines that you could install in your outdoor kitchen. Your BBQ island could burgeon into a sprawling professional-grade space for preparing all kinds of food. It all depends on what dishes you want to make. Of course, it also depends on what you can afford. Each new appliance comes at a hefty cost.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS AT BBQ ISLAND Here at BBQ Island, we enjoy everything to do with outdoor kitchens. Our massive selection includes enormous cooking equipment. We also sell sinks, faucets, and towel bars for cleaning up afterward. Find a location near you at bbqislandinc.com.

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Scottsdale | 480-503-1110 14987 N. Northsight Boulevard Scottsdale, AZ 85260

20 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

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Health

3 reasons for making Wellphora

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We Have To Do Better For Postpartum Recovery

By Amy Vander Linden

Did you know that there is a type of physical therapy specifically for recovering from pregnancy and delivery?

There are so many great resources here in the Glendale/ Peoria area and we often collaborate with other providers to ensure the best recovery for mom and baby. We are so passionate about helping women realize that they can get their health, fitness and bodies back after children. We offer support and information to make it all easier. Visit momentoftruthpt.com to learn more.

Amy Vander Linden has been a physical therapist for 20 years and loves helping women feel healthy, whole and regain their sense of self. She can be reached at amy@momentoftruthpt.com.

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COMMON POSTPARTUM COMPLAINTS: • Urinary difficulties. Women with urinary incontinence leak urine when they sneeze, cough, or run. Some women feel a frequent or sudden urge to urinate, even when their bladder isn’t full. Others are unable to start the flow of urine at will or empty their bladder completely when urinating.

• Perineum pain. (The perineum is the area of skin between the vagina and the anus.) This symptom is common with tearing or an episiotomy. In addition, tight pelvic floor muscles cause some to experience persistent perineum pain, even after their wound heals. This often contributes to sex being painful.

• Pelvic pain. Some women have pain during sex for many months or even years after childbirth. And some have chronic vulvar pain, burning or itching.

Others have pain during bowel movements. These symptoms are often caused by tight pelvic floor muscles, which can lead to inflamed tissue and nerves.

• Pelvic organ prolapse. When pregnancy and childbirth weaken the pelvic floor muscles the uterus, bladder, and/or bowel can slip out of place.

Rehabilitating these muscles can help prevent or improve this condition.

• C-sections scars. Scar tissue can grow like vines if left untreated. It is critical to release and resolve this restriction to prevent further impact on pelvic structures, most commonly leading to back pain and incontinence.

M

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Why do so many people trust Wellphora as their source for CBD? One, all of our products are 3rd-party, triple-lab tested. Two, we use all organic ingredients, and three, we manufacture right here in Arizona. Plus, our FREE SHIPPING is perfect for those looking to minimize their shopping trips!

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regnancy and delivery can be such a magical time, but it can also be extremely difficult and painful. Dreams or plans we may have for how it should go often crash and burn. Women have no idea that so many issues they are told are normal are in fact treatable and they don’t have to suffer. Pelvic floor physical therapy needs to be part of healthcare for all women.

AFTER DELIVERY… • 35% of new moms experience stress urinary incontinence (peeing with coughing, sneezing and laughing) in the postpartum period.

• More than 50% of women have diastatis rectus after pregnancy. (A separation of the abs from their central tendon, the leading cause of low back pain, stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.)

• 20% of first-time moms show severe pelvic floor muscle injury after a normal pregnancy/delivery.

• 25% of women with pregnancy-related pelvic pain during pregnancy continue to have pain after delivery.

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UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 21

Business Directory RESTAURANT

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Italian Classics, Pastas, Pizza, House Made Pierogis, Authentic Chicago Italian Beef Sandwiches, Walleye Friday, Family Owned, Full Bar

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A large 6-8 oz Walleye Pike straight from the Great Lakes. Lightly breaded and Pan Fried with a Citrus Cream Sauce. Served with Spaghetti Marinara and fresh veggies for $14.75

DB Termite LLC We strive to be in constant communication with our customers until the job is done. For estimates or questions on our services, please contact us at your convenience. We look forward to meeting you soon!

FREE Termite Inspections DINE-IN OR CARRYOUT Order Online at WWW.EATTWISTED.COM, call 623-537-4000 or use the Menufy App. Delivery available when ordering online within a four mile radius.

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SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES. MAKE A BIG IMPACT. 22 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

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Business Directory GARAGE DOORS

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from page 26

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

UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 23

Entertainment

Must-Watch Streaming Movies & Shows NETFLIX

Run A disabled girl lives a sheltered life with her mother in their home. As the story progresses, she slowly discovers that not all is as it seems and there is more behind this choice of living situation made by her mother. On Hulu November 20.

DISNEY+ The Mandalorian Star Wars is back, baby! The returning adventures of the title character Mandalorian and the Child continue. Continuing to explore new worlds and meet new people, the adventures continue – now with a mission; finding a safe and loving home for the Child. New episodes weekly in November on Disney+.

SHOWTIME The Liberator The Liberator brings to the screen a unique take on the stories of WW2 by presenting it in rotoscope animation. Following the story of the 157th Infantry Regiment from Italy to Dachau. Be prepared for the trial and tribulations associated with a war story. This is not your children’s cartoon. On Netflix November 11.

HULU

Moonbase 8 Three of the most unlikely astronauts work to be chosen for NASA’s next moon mission. Subpar and nowhere near the top choices for the mission, these three have their work cut out for them and little to no support from the NASA team. On Showtime November 8.

I Am Greta A documentary about the teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg and her impact on the world. This film follows Greta during her year off from school.

Influencing the young and old alike, Greta shows us what could be if we all took the time to make a change. On Hulu November 13.

AMAZON PLUS

The Reagans A docuseries about Ronald Reagan and his family’s life during his presidency. We all know about Gorbachev, jelly beans, trickle down economics, and the attempted assassination. Now we receive a much more exposing and revealing story about the famous family themselves and the life they led when the cameras turned off. On Showtime November 15.

Uncle Frank The story of a southern girl who wants to get closer to her uncle and his partner. They set off on a road trip which leads the uncle to confront his past and distant family; in the end, reaching a new relationship with his niece. On Amazon November 26.

Animaniacs A reboot of the classic animated series. Just like the original series we grew up loving, the Warner siblings continue their antics. Despite its 20 year hiatus since they went off the air, the Warners and their compatriots are still outrageously funny.

“OK, bye, bye, Lady!” On Hulu November 20.

24 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

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Countd own to

BLACK FRIDAY Window and Door Sale!

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Choose a poor-quality vinyl window and you’ll be searching for another Black Friday window sale in a few years! Take advantage of this sale on our Fibrex® windows, and you’ll be set for decades!*

We handle the entire process—from selling to installation to the warranty—on our windows and doors, eliminating the middleman. And know that we’ve adjusted our operations to serve you in the safest way possible.

There are Call for your FREE Window and Door Diagnosis limited appointments available PhoenixWindowFix.com

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Offer not available in all areas. Discount applied by retailer representative at time of contract execution and applies to purchase of 3 or more windows and/or entry or patio doors. 3% cash discount for payment in full by cash or check applied at time of sale.

Cannot be combined with other offers. Initial contact for a free Window and Door Diagnosis must be made and documented between 11/1/20 and 11/27/20, with the appointment then occurring no more than 10 days after the initial contact. No payments and deferred interest for 24 months available to well qualified buyers on approved credit only. Not all customers may qualify. No Finance Charges will be assessed if promo balance is paid in full in 24 months. Renewal by Andersen retailers are independently owned and operated retailers, and are neither brokers nor lenders. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only, and all financing is provided by third-party lenders unaffiliated with Renewal by Andersen retailers, under terms and conditions arranged directly between the customer and such lender. Southwest Windows & Doors LLC, d/b/a Renewal by Andersen of Arizona. AZ ROC lic. #311233. “Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are marks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. ©2020 Lead Surge LLC. All rights reserved. *See limited warranty for details at https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/homeowner-help/warranty. All sales, marketing and installation of windows is conducted by Renewal by Andersen of Arizona, an independently owned and operated affiliate operating in AZ.

1

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UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 25

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD - THEME: IN THE KITCHEN ACROSS 1. Capital of Ghana 6. Paris in Tour de France 9. Wild ox of India 13. Admiral’s group 14. “Mele Kalikimaka” wreath 15. Julian Barnes’ “The ____ of an Ending” 16. Telephone company 17. Acronym in a bottle 18. Birth-related 19. *Set briefly on fire 21. *Separate solids from fat in melted butter 23. *Crusty dessert 24. Uncouth person 25. Westminster broadcaster, acr.

28. Coffee break spot 30. *Scald quickly in boiling water 35. Like desert 37. Like Civil War reenactment battle 39. *Like old chips 40. Delhi dress 41. Subculture language 43. *Good or bad it emanates from stoves 44. “As the World ____” 46. Like Jekyll and Hyde’s personality 47. This over matter?

48. Encryption device, a.k.a. ____ machine 50. Practice in the ring 52. Low-____ image 53. Competitive advantage 55. NBA coach “____” Rivers 57. *Dissolve browned food bits with liquids 61. *Thicken by simmering 64. Love, to Catherine Deneuve 65. Pigeon sound 67. Pianist’s exercise 69. Resembling a fish 70. Hawaiian Mauna 71. Smart candy?

72. Tire swing holder 73. Bruin legend Bobby 74. *Yummy reward

DOWN 1. Back of the boat 2. Staff symbol 3. Text messenger 4. Short version 5. Like number 1 to hydrogen 6. Besides 7. Opposite of paleo8. ‘70s music genre 9. Wheel in grandfather clock 10. ____-perspirant 11. Defender of skies 12. Count on 15. Growls angrily 20. What lighthouse does 22. Williams sister’s return 24. On account of 25. *Turkey action 26. Hitler’s Eva 27. Wispy clouds 29. *Incorporate an ingredient 31. Niels Bohr’s study object 32. Rock bottom 33. Star Wars attacker 34. Shepherds’ flocks 36. Sound at door 38. ____sack 42. Clearing in the woods 45. Viscous 49. Wood-shaping tool 51. Capybara, e.g.

54. GEICO’s mascot 56. Like a button, but more so 57. Cuckoo 58. Dubai dignitary 59. Departed 60. Debussy’s “Clair de ____” 61. Serengeti sound 62. *Preserve by adding salt 63. Old Norse texts 66. “____ the ramparts...”

68. D.C. time

SOLUTION ON PAGE 23.

26 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

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Bites Your Guide to Local Dining JOJO’S PIZZA & FAMILY RESTAURANT

THE LINKS NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL ADDRESS: 18823 Country Club Pkwy., Peoria PHONE: 623-561-1681 CUISINE TYPE: American

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

With change all around us, The Links is truly your Neighborhood Grill and we are offering takeout! We have changed our menu slightly due to product availability...

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

www.JoJos-Pizza.com

www.TheLinksGrill.com

LAKESIDE BAR & GRILL

SALA THAI RESTAURANT

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

ADDRESS: 8278 W. Lake Pleasant Pkwy., #105, Peoria PHONE: 623-476-5877 CUISINE TYPE: Thai Sala Thai Restaurant brings Thailand to you.

With our infusion of the sweet and savory, you’re sure to find a dish that you’ll love. We start with only the freshest ingredients to stir fry delicious melodies of tastes and colors that are sure to delight the senses.

www.LakesideBarAndGrillAZ.com

www.SalaThaiAZ.com

Mouthwatering Mexican Food Made from Scratch!

PATIO DINING WEEKEND BRUNCH

JOIN US ON THE PATIO FOR BRUNCH OR DINNER! SATURDAY BRUNCH HOURS: 9:00am - 2:30pm SUNDAY BRUNCH HOURS: 8:00am - 2:30pm FULL BAR AVAILABLE EVERY DAY

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Mochilero Kitchen Brunch Satisfies Every Craving!

CHURRO WAFFLES 2 Belgian waffle, cinnamon sugar, macerated berries, abuelita-nutella chocolate sauce, lechera caramel sauce, coconut and almond crumble

Choice of: Opera Cava(18), Lunetta Prosecco(20), Pimper Sonoma Brut(24) + Choice of 3 Juices: Cranberry, Orange, Grapefruit, Pineapple

AVOCADO TOAST Noble Bread, smashed avocado spread, cherry tomato salsa, bacon lardons, 2 eggs

HOURS: Tues. - Thurs. 11:30am - 8:00pm | Friday 11:30am - 9:00pm | Sat. 9:00am - 9:00pm | Sun. 8:00am - 2:30pm HAPPY HOUR: Tues. - Fri. from 2:30pm - 6:00pm | 623.440.5588 | MochileroKitchen.com myhyperlocalnews.com

UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 27

Happenings Before attending an event, visit the website to confirm it is still happening. We are not responsible for canceled events. Keep in mind COVID-19 precautions, including social distancing, wearing a mask, and hand hygiene. Have fun and pack your hand sanitizer!

MIGHTY MONARCHS BUTTERFLY EXHIBIT When: Through Nov. 22 Where: Desert Botanical Gardens, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix What: Monarch butterflies and their friends are back! Take a closer look at pollinators that care for and protect our desert environment. Visit dbg.org to learn more.

PEORIA NIGHT MARKET When: Weekly on Wednesdays, 4 - 7 p.m.

Where: Park West Shopping Center, 9744 W. Northern Avenue, Peoria What: Every Wednesday, the entire family is invited to enjoy a variety of vendors including fresh produce from TJ Farms, Cormany Farms and Gary’s Greens; and food and artisan vendors such as Heart to Home Elderberry, Squarz Pies, Brother’s Jerky, Los Muertos Salsa, Radikal Metals, Thirty-One Gifts, Gina’s Jewelry, and many more. Vendors vary from week to week. Visit shopparkwest.com to learn more.

28 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

ZOOLIGHTS! TOGETHER WE ALL SHINE When: Nov. 7 – January 31, 2020 Where: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix What: The Valley’s most cherished holiday tradition is back with millions of twinkling lights, dazzling animal sculptures, and a Wildlife Lantern Safari, featuring 66 creatures — polar bears, peacocks and more, all aglow. And this year, there’s a new way to feel the magic. Cruise ZooLights, the drive-thru experience that is not to be missed. With expanded trails and new sights and sounds, ZooLights is bigger, brighter and better than ever. Visit phoenixzoo.org/events/zoolights to learn more.

BUSINESS PROS CONNECT VIRTUAL MEETING When: Nov. 12, 11:30 a.m.

Where: Zoom What: Be sure to mark your calendars for our upcoming virtual meeting.

Grab a lunch, and log on to join! This month our guest speaker will be Beth Grady with the Marketing BAG and 32 Shea. She will be talking about social media know-how for small businesses. As always, BPC is a FREE and nonindustry exclusive local networking group. To receive log-in info, join the BPC networking group at facebook.com/groups/BusinessProsConnect or e-mail news@egpublishing.com.

myhyperlocalnews.com

THE PINNERS CONFERENCE AND EXPO When: Nov. 13-14 Where: WestWorld, 16601 North Pima Road, Scottsdale What: The Pinners Conference and Expo has been modified to make a safe return to Scottsdale on Friday, November 13 through Saturday, November 14. Held at WestWorld, the two-day event brings the online inspiration of crafting to life through more than 100 classes taught by the nation’s top experts plus an entire shopping floor featuring nearly 300 local and national brands. Learn more at az.pinnersconference.com.

美 食 家

SUSHI & ASIAN CUISINE

Family Owned and Operated • Est. 2014

MOVING DAY PHOENIX: A VIRTUAL WALK FOR PARKINSON’S When: Nov. 14 at 10:30 a.m.

Where: Virtual What: Nearly 1 million Americans live with Parkinson’s disease, and someone new is diagnosed every nine minutes. Support those you know whose lives have been touched

by Parkinson’s. The virtual event this year will educate, inform and raise money for the Parkinson’s Foundation. Donate online at MovingDayPhoenix.org or register to form a team to walk in your own community. Learn more at facebook.com/PFSouthwest.

Lunch Specials Daily from open till 3pm

Happy Hour Specials Sunday-Thursday 3-6pm

AZ SKY VIRTUAL PAINT NIGHT When: November 14 at 7 p.m.

Where: Virtual What: The Happy Canvas is hosting a free virtual paint night. Our fun and talented artist will guide you step by step through a beautiful Arizona sky painting. We have kits available to purchase to go with this class. It will include paint, brushes, canvas, pallet paper, and a picture of the finished painting. The kits are $30 (plus shipping and handling and the class is free). Once the kits are purchased, a Zoom link invitation will be sent out to you. To learn more, follow The Happy Canvas on Facebook.

VISTANCIA COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET When: Nov. 15, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: The Village Of Vistancia HOA Community Center, 29701 N. Sunrise Point, Peoria What: This community market includes more than 75 vendors selling local organic produce, artisan breads and pastries, raw honey, fresh eggs, meats, hummus, and more. There are arts and crafts, kids activities, live music, food trucks, and more.

Visit facebook.com/Smithslocalfarmersmarkets to learn more. This is a monthly event.

HIDDEN IN THE HILLS When: Nov. 20-22 and Nov. 27-29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: 35 private studio locations in the North Valley What: A signature event of the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, Hidden in the Hills is Arizona’s largest and longest-running artist studio tour. This year’s event features 140 artists at 35 socially distanced, private studio locations throughout Cave Creek, Carefree and North Scottsdale. While this year’s tour may seem a bit different, with masks and hand sanitizer, guests will still enjoy the unique experience of meeting diverse artists, watching demonstrations, and learning the inspiration behind each artist’s work.

Free and self-guided. For details or to download a map, visit HiddenInTheHills.org.

FOOD BATTLE: GRILL OFF When: Nov. 21, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Where: Peoria, message on Facebook for exact location What: Local chefs and cooks compete in front of a crowd and are judged by 12 local celebrities from across the Valley and beyond. The winner will win a custom mobile grill and more. Hosted by Men Who Cook. Find the event on Facebook and direct message Men Who Cook (also on Facebook) to learn more.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT SALT RIVER FIELDS AT TALKING STICK When: Nov. 23 - Dec. 31 Where: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale What: Holiday Lights at Salt River Fields, a unique and dazzling drive-through holiday light experience to celebrate the season with an unprecedented spectacle of nearly 5 million lights along 1.2 miles that encircles the award-winning Spring Training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies. Tickets for various experiences such as a VIP with a Fast Pass, even limo or small bus access, are available at HolidayLightsSRF.com. myhyperlocalnews.com

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UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 29

Getaway

Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown

FULL-SERVICE HOTEL WITH BOUTIQUE FEEL OFFERS LOCAL EXPERIENCE & TWO NEW DINING CONCEPTS

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wned and developed by Driftwood Capital, Canopy

by Hilton Tempe Downtown, the new 198-room hotel at the corner of University Drive and Myrtle Avenue, boasts spacious guest rooms and suites, along with approximately 5,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space.

“Bringing our vision to life has been a collaborative effort between our local design firm, local featured artists, and a team of longtime hospitality professionals who have created a destination that truly embraces the fabric of the neighborhood,” says Alan Klein, Chief Enthusiast and General Manager at Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown.

“We hope to become a vibrant gathering space that embodies the innovation present in the exciting evolution of downtown Tempe. As part of the

Hilton brand portfolio, we are implementing Hilton CleanStay procedures, a new industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection, created in partnership with Lysol, so our guests can feel reassured that an even cleaner and safer stay is waiting for them.”

With the hotel’s debut comes two distinct dining venues helmed by seasoned Valley Chef Ken Arneson.

Alter Ego, the hotel’s signature restaurant located on the ground floor, serves up elevated fusion cuisine made with fresh locally and regionally sourced ingredients and an inventive craft cocktail program that aims to set the bar for elevated cocktail culture within vibrant downtown Tempe.

Alter Ego’s modern interiors perfectly complement the rich history and heritage of Tempe, with floor-toceiling glass windows, lush greenery,

custom wooden shelving, sleek marble countertops, and exclusive, curated pieces from local artists.

entertaining. The terrace bar will also feature an ongoing lineup of weekly programming, events, and live music.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, a few dishes on Alter Ego’s dinner menu include Long Bone Short Rib ($26) topped with a shitake Thai mushroom sauce, grilled green onion and shishito peppers; Char Sui Pork Tacos ($13) garnished with radish, bok choy slaw, cilantro and salsa verde; and Roasted Calabrian Shrimp ($25) smothered in ajo butter and grilled lemon, served with grilled Noble Bread. The menu also includes robust shared plates, salads, side dishes and desserts like Chocolate Tres Leches Cake ($9) with house-made ancho chocolate and cajeta gelato.

“We are thrilled to partner with Hilton on the launch of one of Driftwood’s first lifestyle hotels,” says Carlos Rodriguez, Jr., President and COO of Driftwood Capital. “The Tempe market has been on our radar for some time and we are proud to fill an underserved hospitality and restaurant niche in such a booming, progressive city.”

Alibi, the East Valley’s only fullservice rooftop pool and bar set atop the hotel’s 14th floor, is a scenic retreat for weekenders and locals alike looking to relax, cut loose and cool down while lounging by the pool with music in ear and a cocktail in hand. With tapas-style light bites and a curated local craft-cocktail menu, Alibi guests enjoy lounge seating, chic cabanas, a roaring fire pit and a seat at the custom wrap-around bar that features retractable climate-controlled glass walls for comfortable year-round 30 • November 2020 • UPPER WESTSIDER

A curated collection of art crafted by local Arizona artists can be found throughout the hotel. Cairn rock formations, designed by artist John Randall Nelson, symbolize a sense of place and the start of a guest’s journey through the hotel, inspired by the trail markings of the area’s ancient Indigenous people. Artists Keanen Kasten and Issac Caruso were also commissioned to create custom murals.

Situated within a commuter-friendly urban corridor, the hotel is centrally located at 108 E. University Drive. For more information about Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, visit TempeDowntown.CanopybyHilton.com.

To book a reservation at Alter Ego, visit AlterEgoTempe.com and learn more about Alibi at AlibiTempe.com. myhyperlocalnews.com

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UPPER WESTSIDER • November 2020 • 31

Solar Must Be Installed by Dec 31st or Miss Out on 26% Tax Credit

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rizona Home Owners have until December 31, 2020 to have a solar system installed and be “Operational” to qualify for the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). If the system is installed after that date the tax credit will drop to 22% in 2021 and 0% in 2022.

Is there still time for a solar project to be initiated and completed before the end of the year? According to Val Berechet, President of SunSolar Solutions, a local solar company with over 6500 customers in Arizona, it only takes one or two days to complete a solar installation. The issue is, it can take anywhere from 60 to 90 days from the point of getting a proposal to having the permit from the city and approvals from APS. So it is getting close to the point where that will become impossible to accomplish. To remove the uncertainty for their customers SunSolar Solutions will guarantee customers an installation in 2020 if they call for a proposal through October 2020.

In addition to the Federal ITC, the State of Arizona will issue a $1000 tax credit that can be applied to 2020 state taxes.

According to Solar Energy Industry Association (SEIA): If a homeowner buys the solar energy system outright (either paying cash or financing with a loan), they cannot use any commence construction safe harbor provisions. To receive the full 26% residential solar tax credit, the system must be “placed in service” before the end of the day December 31, 2020.

It is not enough to have signed a contract, or to have made a down payment or even to have begun construction. There is no bright-line test from the IRS on what constitutes “placed in service,” but the IRS has equated this with “completed installation” in a Private Letter Ruling. The residential credit is claimed on the tax return for the year in which the qualifying expenditures are incurred, and the tax rules say the costs are incurred when the

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system installation has been completed.The 25D tax credit will step down to 26% in 2020, 22% in 2021, and 0% starting in 2022.

If a homeowner buys a newly built home with solar and owns the system outright, the year that they move into the house sets their credit eligibility. Expenditures are generally treated as incurred when the original installation of the solar energy system is completed on an existing home. However, if a new solar energy system is purchased in connection with the new construction of a home, the costs are treated as incurred when the taxpayer begins living in the home.

QUICK FACTS The ITC is a 26 percent tax credit for solar systems on residential (under Section 25D) and commercial (under Section 48) properties. The Section 48 commercial credit can be applied to both customer-sited commercial solar systems and large-scale utility solar farms.

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The residential and commercial solar ITC has helped the U.S. solar industry grow by more than 10,000% percent since it was implemented in 2006, with an average annual growth of 50% over the last decade alone.

Congress passed a multi-year extension of the ITC in 2015.

A tax credit is a dollar-fordollar reduction in the income taxes that a person or company would otherwise pay the federal government. The ITC is based on the amount of investment in solar property. Both the residential and commercial ITC are equal to 26 percent of the basis that is invested in eligible solar property.

If you would like to receive a free proposal customized to your home’s roof and APS usage call Michael O’Donnell, VP of Sales at SunSolar Solutions at 602818-1355. Act now to ensure the installation in 2020 and receive the full 26% Federal ITC and the $1000 Arizona Tax Credit on this years taxes.