North Peoria, AZ December 2021

D E C E M B E R 2 02 1

Winter Magic

F O O D + B E V E R AG E H O L I DAY EN T ER TAI N I N G F I N A N C E + LE G A L S E RV I C E S FI NAN CIAL T I P S HOME + DESIGN C H RIS T M AS D EC O R AT I N G

Christine Andert Picture Lady Photography LLC

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PEORIA’S SMALL BUSINESS AND SOLE PROP SPECIALIST FOR HEALTHCARE COVERAGE

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

Julie LaCroix | julie.lacroix@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

December — Winter Magic CAN YOU BELIEVE WE’RE WRAPPING UP 2021? Time really flies when you’re having this much fun telling all the wonderful stories here in North Peoria.

Susan Lanier-Graham susan.lanier-graham@lifestylepubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGER

Jen David | jen.david@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman

This month, we highlight the magic of the winter season, with holiday celebrations,

L AYO UT DESIGNER

festive light displays and gifts galore. Local North Peoria resident and stylemaker

Dani Moore

Rebecca Taig invites you into her home to experience a bit of Christmas magic as she shares a few tips on how you can add that magic to your own home this season.

Speaking of magic, during this magical season, we remember the spirit of giving. Last year, Lifestyle Publications gave away $250,000 at Christmas and beyond

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angel Fuchs, Alison Bailin Batz CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography

to families in need. This year we are going for even more. We are giving away $300,000 this year and we need your recommendations. We want your nominations to find needs that may not otherwise be met. See page 28 for details about the giveaway and please nominate hidden needs you see.

Looking at the practical side of the season, we invited three of our local business owners and financial experts to share some tips to help you end 2021 and start 2022. Marty Guzman with Independent Wealth Management, Linda Robens with Medicare for Me, LLC and Krystopher Ziolkowski of A-Zed Taxes each offer up some helpful information.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Finally, as this year comes to a close, we’d like to take this opportunity to express

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

our appreciation for you, dear reader. We wouldn’t be here without you, and we look

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

forward to another great year ahead.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Blessings to you and yours. We hope to see you soon!

Julie LaCroix, Publisher

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Rebecca Taig

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE ANDERT— PICTURE LADY PHOTOGRAPHY 4

North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 North Peoria Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the North Peoria area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in North Peoria Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2021

FEATURES 14 Serving Up Holiday Cheer Simple Tips for Serving Up Something Special This Holiday Season

20 Christmas Magic Rebecca Taig Shares Christmas Decorating Tips

24 End of Year Financial Tips 3 Local Financial Experts Weigh In

20 14

34 He’s Got Game Brad Smidt Helps Community Through Fiesta Bowl Charities

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DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Local Experiences

14

Food & Wine

24 Financial Buzz 28 Giving Back 31

Realty Report

32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

BUSINESS • COMMERCIAL LAW • REAL ESTATE serving north peoria

8325

west happy valley rd, ste peoria, arizona 85383

commercial & residential real estate development

(623) 248-1799 justinrdavislaw.com

115

commercial leases & buy / sell agreements

estate planning will • trust • power of attorney

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Follow the Fork at Park West Benefits Peoria Education Foundation Park West Shopping Center and Peoria Education Foundation teamed up in October for a progressive dining and entertainment event, Follow the Fork. The event, located throughout the open-air shopping center, offered restaurant tastings along with live music, interactive art, and more. It helped raise funds to support the Peoria Education Foundation. PHOTOGRAPHY BY PICTURE LADY PHOTOGRAPHY LLC.

4.

5.

6.

1. Many came out to eat & drink at Follow the Fork. | 2. Artist Gina Ribaudo painted live on site. | 3. Musicians entertained the crowd. | 4. Kasai Japanese Steakhouse opens soon at Park West. Owner Michael Russello and head chef with two of the restaurant’s wait staff. | 5. Peoria Chamber President Scott Andrews and his wife. | 6. Peoria Education Foundation offers grants to teachers in the Peoria Unified School District to enhance the educational experience of students.

NEED A HOLIDAY TOUCH UP? LOOK NATURAL FEEL BEAUTIFUL QUICK AND PAINLESS (and...it’s our secret)

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T H AT ’ S H OW WE

ROLL Serving 2 Locations: PEORIA 8385 West Deer Valley Road, Ste 114

623.561.1988

480-800-8346 | www.lynchvein.com 26900 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy | Ste 209 8

North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

GLENDALE 6530 W. Happy Valley Road, Ste. 112

623.566.3888

1.

2.

3.

Lynch Vein & Aesthetics Celebrates First Anniversary Peoria and Glendale turned out in force on October 27 to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Lynch Vein & Aesthetics with a happy hour, tours of the office and an official ribbon cutting. PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

5.

4.

6.

1. Dr. Matthew Lynch and his team cut the ribbon celebrating one year as a North Peoria business. | 2. Dr. Lynch explains some of the available treatments. | 3. Bobbi Magdaleno, executive director, Office of Government & Community Engagement, ASU, welcomes Dr. Lynch as a Peoria business owner. | 4. Councilmember Binsbacher, Carri Kaufman (Business Development Mgr, Peoria Chamber of Commerce) and Dr. Lynch. | 5. Dr. Lynch demonstrates Opus Plasma. | 6. Community celebrates one year of Lynch Vein & Aesthetics.

Desert Sage Bodywork Happy Holidays

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9

AROUND TOWN

We are a Senior Living Community that offers Assisted Living and Memory Care. We take a holistic approach.

Our space is well designed and offers unique amenities.

We enrich the lives of our residents by providing the community with a relaxed and welcome environment, while encouraging independence and freedom of choice.

ATHLETICO PHYSICAL THERAPY OPENS IN PEORIA Athletico Physical Therapy has opened a new location in Peoria, near Happy Valley Road and Lake Pleasant Parkway next to Aldi.

Athletico offers convenient hours with early morning, late evening, and Saturday appointment options, and doesn't require a referral or prescription to start treatment.

Services at Athletico include physical therapy; free assessments for a strain, sprain or nagging pain; work injuries; COVID-19 recovery and rehabilitation; and home therapy. Athletico Peoria

accepts

major

insurance,

doesn't require a referral, and schedules initial evaluations within 24-48 hours. Athletico.com/PeoriaAZ

AAA COOLING SPECIALISTS DONATES AC UNIT TO LOCALS Peoria residents Laurel and Jake

Call today to scheduale a free tour!

Abbot and their children constantly

(602) 366-4600

had to repair their 24-year-old AC

26850 North Lake Pleasant Parkway | peoria.avanti-sl.com/

unit. Laurel teaches at Mt. Ridge High School. Jake is a firefighter and fulltime student at Phoenix College working toward his paramedic degree.

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North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

AAA

Cooling

Specialists

(AAACoolingAZ.com) stepped up to help. The family-owned company's philanthropic arm (AAA Cooling Specialists Cares) donated an AC unit. "As a company, we believe it is important to give back to our community," said owner Erin Robert.

WESTGATE HOLIDAY EVENTS Find your holiday spirit at Westgate!

Think healthy is boring?

Dr. Mitchell makes holidays healthy AND fun!

Schedule your appointment on one of our fun December days: Dec 1 Homemade desserts

by Dr. Mitchell’s staff!

Dec 3 Office dress up!

Dec 6 Hot cider!

Dec 8 Kids’ coloring contest!

Dec 10 Office dress up!

Dec 13 Last day - Toys for tots drive!

Dec 15 Free holiday card mailing!

Dec 17 Office dress up!

Dec 20 Nutritional gift giveaway - Isagenix!

Dec 22 Live music with TJ Rifkin!

Dec 23 Ornament giveaway and raffle!

Skate Westgate is open daily through January 17 for skating.

Skating sessions are 45 minutes each, first come, first served. And it's a real ice rink!

Santa is onsite in WaterDance Plaza from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec 4, 11, 18, and daily from December 20 through 24.

The Santa Hustle is on Saturday, December 11 with a kid's dash at 7:30 a.m., half marathon kicking off at 8 a.m., and 5K at 8:15 a.m. Register at SantaHustle.com.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you!

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ NorthPeoria using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

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$

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL

www.mitchellchiropracticaz.com

(623) 878-8200 | 9844 W. Yearling Road Ste D1100 Modern Chiropractic with a hometown touch.

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

11

LOCAL EXPERIENCES

WINTER AND REVEL 'TIS THE SEASON FOR THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT! Here in North Peoria, we love the festivities this time of year—from decorating the saguaro and ice skating in the desert to joining together for music and revelry. Here are a few of our favorite ways to light up the season and bring a bit of that winter magic to the Arizona desert.

SEASONAL LIGHT DISPLAYS AND EVENTS + Visit Glendale: Murphy Park LiGHTS! holiday lights display nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. in Downtown Glendale. Entertainment Fridays and Saturdays 7 to 9 p.m.

5800 West Glenn Dr, Glendale, AZ 85301 + The Wigwam: Holiday Nights in Lights at The Wigwam Arizona. Walk the festive light paths every Friday in December, from 6 to 8 p.m.

300 E. Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 + ReinDeer Valley Christmas: 50,000 synchronized lights dance to music 6 to 10 p.m. nightly 11/28 to 1/1 at ReinDeer Valley Christmas, 3302 W Adobe Dam Rd, Phoenix.

3302 W Adobe Dam Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85027 + Westgate Entertainment District: Enjoy ice in the desert—surrounded by the shimmering lights of the Christmas tree and the Arizona stars—when you Skate Westgate all month.

6751 North Sunset Blvd, Glendale, AZ 85305 + Osuna Park: Peoria Old Town Holiday Lights in Osuna Park. Christmas tree, music show, weekend performances. Free and open to the public.

10510 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345 12

North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

Westgate Entertainment

scan for more city-wide tips

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FOOD & WINE

SERVING UP HOLIDAY CHEER IS IT POSSIBLE TO CREATE A GORGEOUS HOLIDAY SPREAD WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE OR PUTTING HOURS INTO THE PREPARATIONS? Yes! Welcome to your holiday rescue!

The holiday season is the ideal time for getting together with friends and family. Don’t spend so much time prepping and cooking, only to end up too exhausted to enjoy yourself.

These easy tips help you transform everyday items into Instagramworthy spreads.

+ Appetizers take moments with a few store-bought items of food and décor

+ Sip hot chocolate around the tree— but with a twist like a sugared rim, a do-it-yourself hot chocolate station, and a little something extra for the adults

+ Desserts are a must-have for that Christmas party, but these easy holiday ideas will be the superstar—no baking required

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North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

SIMPLE TIPS TO ELEVATE EVERYDAY DISHES INTO SOMETHING SPECIAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

T

TOGETHER ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

PHOTOGRAPHY @UNCOMMON.JANE

BAKED BRIE.

Melted brie is an appetizer sure to bring oohs and ahhs. Place a wheel of brie on parchment on a baking sheet. Bake at 350F for 15 minutes. Transfer the warm brie and parchment to a serving board. You can

serve it with slices of baguette or—as pictured here— sliced pound cake you find in your grocer’s freezer section. Drizzle a little honey and it’s perfect as a

APPETIZERS

holiday appetizer.

CANDIED PECANS. Candied pecans dress up cheese or are a great snack.

In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup butter with 1/4 cup brown sugar. When dissolved, add in 1/2 cup pecans. Stir to coat. Let cool on parchment paper.

FESTIVE CHARCUTERIE. Everyone loves a gorgeous charcuterie board. Arrange nibbles on a board in the shape of a Christmas tree.

Decorate with rosemary or greens.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

15

FESTIVITIES FOOD & WINE (CONTINUED)

Notice in these photos, everything is simple, easy to pur-

chase in your local grocery store, but decorated for the season with small festive items. Head to your local craft store

to find small items you can use to embellish your tables.

This might include miniature Christmas trees, ornaments, floral stems, garlands, pine cones, candles and more.

Every holiday gathering needs hot chocolate. How

ADD ADULT OPTIONS.

about creating a fun do-it-yourself hot chocolate station

Make some adult options available for your hot choc-

at your gathering?

olate station. There are several options that pair best

You can get creative and think outside the box. Place

with hot chocolate, including bourbon, vanilla vodka,

some of the items you might want to include:

+ Whipped cream + Peppermint or choco-

+ Toffee bits + Chocolate chips (or mint

late-coated stir sticks

chocolate chips)

or spoons

+ Gingerbread cookies + Malted milk balls + Chocolate or caramel

+ Marshmallows + Cinnamon sticks + Cranberries + Sprinkles or Gummie Bears

HOT CHOCOL ATE

items in little jars with small spoons or scoops. Here are

Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa, spice rum, or cognac.

syrup for drizzling

+ Candy canes + Chocolate bars

+ Crushed peppermint Offer lots of options—and either paper cups or big chunky mugs—and watch the adults and kids alike have fun creating over-the-top hot chocolate treats.

CREATE A SUGAR RIM. Sugar rims are something you can do ahead of time and have prepared when your guests arrive. Prepare two shallow dishes: one with light corn syrup and the other with crushed peppermints. Dip the rim of each mug into the corn syrup and then into the crushed peppermint, rolling slightly to coat. Allow to stand for a few minutes before adding hot chocolate.

16

North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

HOLIDAY SPIRIT

DRESS UP A CHEESECAKE.

Find delicious cheesecake in the bakery department

pretty plate. Add fresh fruit and candied pecans, and then finish with mint leaves.

ADD COCONUT FOR A SNOWY SCENE.

DESSERTS

or frozen section of your grocery store. Place it on a

To create a winter wonderland, just add coconut. Again, you can dress up a simple cake from the grocery store (or a boxed cake you make) that is decorated with plain

white frosting. Sprinkle liberally with coconut and decorate with Christmas cookies or gingerbread.

DON’T FORGET THE GARNISH.

If you prefer chocolate, you can also make that perfect for your Christmas celebration with a few simple items.

Dress up a simple chocolate cake with sugar-dipped berries, mint leaves, and a few tiny Christmas items.

No gathering for the holiday season is complete without dessert. But trying to come up with the perfect dessert—when you aren’t a baker—can sometimes be difficult. No worries!

You can use something already prepared or even a simple boxed cake mix and decorate it for the season.

Remember all the flavors and colors of the season when thinking about how to dress up your desserts. Make use of fresh and dried fruits that fit your color theme. This can include raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries.

Place your desserts on colorful plates or boards and decorate with rosemary sprigs, evergreen cuttings, mint leaves. Use that random Christmas napkin or towel under the plate for a dash of color. And find more of those fun little knick-knacks from the craft store that you can add to your dessert for decoration.

These simple ideas can make your holiday parties a festive occasion—without leaving you too exhausted to enjoy the party!

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

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North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE ANDERT —PICTURE LADY PHOTOGRAPHY

s a m t s i r h c magic

NORTH PEORIA HOMEOWNER AND ENTREPRENEUR REBECCA TAIG SHARES CHRISTMAS DECORATING TIPS

REBECCA TAIG AND HER HUSBAND KENNY BOUGHT THEIR FIRST HOME IN NORTH PEORIA RIGHT BEFORE THE PANDEMIC HIT. They love the family-friendly neighborhood and it’s a perfect place for Taig’s entrepreneurial spirit. Although she works as a geriatric health coach, she launched her own business online at RebeccaTaig.com (@rebecca.taighome on Instagram), where she shares gluten-free recipes and offers entertaining and home décor tips.

We stopped by the Taig residence where we oohed and ahhed over the gorgeous Christmas décor, including a tall Christmas tree in the entryway. “The holidays are magical and we tend to go big,” says Taig, with that holiday spirit twinkling in her eyes. “I love the warmth and comfort Christmas brings, and we always decorate with purpose.”

As we nibbled pumpkin spice cake, Taig shared a few of her favorite tips for bringing the magic of Christmas to every home.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

21

CHRISTMAS MAGIC (CONTINUED)

CHRISTMAS DECORATING TIPS: The Taigs chose a neutral theme of gold, white, and silver to complement their home, but homeowners can choose whichever theme they prefer.

+ Start with a great tree. Taig uses a 12’ flocked artificial tree illuminated with 1200 warm white LED lights. She places a smaller tree in the living room.

+ Use a variety of ornaments in differing sizes. Place larger ornaments at the bottom, large and medium-sized ones in the middle, and smaller pieces at the top.

+ Add florals and picks. Grab these in your theme color at any craft store to add volume and texture to your tree.

+ Add decorative ribbon. Cut lengths of ribbon to fill the gaps rather than winding it around the tree. Tuck in a bit of faux fur to simulate snow and fill in the tree’s interior.

+ Carry the theme throughout the house. Add crystal candlesticks, bowls with ornaments, and themed accents in adjoining rooms.

The welcoming touches in the Taig home definitely spread a bit of that Christmas magic.

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North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

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23

FINANCIAL BUZZ

End of Year Financial Tips 3 LOCAL FINANCIAL EXPERTS WEIGH IN

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE ANDERT

K r ystopher Ziol kowsk i, A-Zed Ta xes LLC Krystopher Ziolkowski owns A-Zed Taxes (AZedTax.com) and prepares annual tax returns for individuals, trusts & estates, and

WHAT ARE WAYS PEOPLE CAN DONATE TO REDUCE TAXES? If someone wants to take part in the spirit

small businesses.

of giving, individuals can receive an additional

ARE THERE STILL TAX PLANNING

ried) in 2021 in addition to the standard deduc-

STRATEGIES FOR 2021?

tion (restrictions apply). Arizona also provides

deduction of up to $300 (single) or $600 (mar-

Absolutely! I like to advise clients to split their

additional deductions using Arizona Tax Credits

tax liabilities over multiple years. For example,

for qualified AZ non-profits, public schools, fos-

if a client is pulling funds out of a retirement

ter care programs, and others. You can donate

account to purchase a home in January, I would

through April 15, 2022, to receive a credit for

advise taking half by December 31st, and then

2021. It does make your life a bit easier if you

taking the second half in early January to split

donate in the year you receive the credit, so get

the tax implications over two years.

those credits in before the end of the year.

Sometimes business owners can spend

24

down or take advantage of bonus depreciation

WHAT SIMPLE ADVICE DO YOU HAVE

on certain end-of-year purchases. For exam-

FOR 2022?

ple, a real estate agent having a stellar year can

Definitely work with a tax expert to help

purchase a new vehicle, which could qualify for

understand the tax law updates and how they

an offset of her 2021 income.

will impact 2022.

North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

Marty Guzman I n d e p e n d e n t We a l t h M a n a g e m e n t & Insurance Services

Marty Guzman and his team of professionals at Independent Wealth Management & Insurance Services

IS MIDDLE-AGE OR RETIREMENT TOO LATE FOR FINANCIAL PLANNING?

(IndependentWealthMgt.com) help customers plan a

A good percentage of our client base is made up of people

strategy—using a variety of investments and insurance

above 60 years of age. While it is good to build a relationship with

products and services—to help them address financial

a Financial Advisor during your working years, it is even more

needs and concerns.

important to work together with an advisor who is experienced in building a financial plan to help you achieve the retirement you

IS IT EVER TOO LATE TO PLAN?

always envisioned. I always tell clients, “Dream it. Plan it. Live it!”

Forward-thinking tax strategies are a way to save over the years that can really add up. We have strategies for you to

DO YOU WELCOME NEW CLIENTS?

investigate prior to the end of the year. We often hear that

Yes! We are happy to help those in our community. Financial

people wish they had started working with a financial advisor

Planning is key to a stress-free retirement and if we can help

much earlier than retirement. Financial Advisors are able to

provide that in any way, we look forward to it! Guzman says,

help with allocating funds inside of your current retirement

“Our team knows what we are doing, but we are not intimidat-

plan, including 401(k)s.

ing. We offer a nice, easy-going, and friendly atmosphere that our clients, as well as our team, truly enjoy being a part of!”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

25

FINANCIAL BUZZ (CONTINUED)

Linda Robens Med ic a re For Me, L L C

Linda Robens is the agency owner of Medicare For Me, LLC (medicareformellc.com). In the insurance industry for more than 30 years, Robens helps people find the right plan, specializing in Medicare insurance plans for individuals over 65 years of age.

WHEN DO I NEED TO START PLANNING MY MEDICARE COVERAGE? When you turn 64, you should start learning about the process and how to enroll by taking one of our Medicare 101 seminars offered online or in person.

If you’re already 65 or over on Medicare, you should

WHEN IS OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR MEDICARE?

have your plan checked annually during open enroll-

Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is October 15 to

ment due to plan changes, health and medication

December 7 each year for Part D plans and Advantage plans

changes, and new plans each year.

changes. Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is between January 1 and March 31. During that time, you can change

DO I HAVE TO SIGN UP FOR MEDICARE WHEN

Advantage plans or go from an Advantage plan back to original

I TURN 65?

Medicare and Part D. ACA Open Enrollment for 2022 is extended

Not necessarily. It depends on if you keep working

an extra month, from November 1, 2021, to January 15, 2022.

or retire at age 65. You earn Part A and you must sign up for Part B if you want coverage. If you are receiv-

WHY SHOULD CUSTOMERS CALL MEDICARE FOR ME, LLC?

ing Social Security payments at age 65, you auto-

Robens says that her business is her passion. “We have

matically receive your Medicare card a few months

resources you will not find working with a captive agent that rep-

before. If you don’t want it then, you have to delay

resents a single company. We care about our clients as if they

it by contacting the Social Security Administration.

were our own family and build relationships to last a lifetime.”

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North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

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27

GIVING BACK

Gratefully

ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

GIVING AWAY AFTER A SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN LAST YEAR, LIFESTYLE PUBLICATIONS IS GIVING $300,000 TO RECIPIENTS IN NEED THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON AND BEYOND... AND WE NEED YOUR HELP!

ABOUT SIX YEARS AGO ANNA SAROL, THE DAUGHTER OF A SINGLE MOTHER, WAS PARALYZED IN A GYMNASTICS ACCIDENT WHEN SHE WAS A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL, BUT UNTIL LAST YEAR SHE DID NOT HAVE A STAIRLIFT IN HER HOME. The stairlift was made possible when Lifestyle Publications gave her family $10,000.

“I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my

“I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my family and I are.”

—Anna Sarol

family and I are,” Anna says.

The money for Anna’s stairlift was part of a giveaway campaign from the company during the 2020 Christmas season that benefited more than 80 recipients across the country with a final distribution of $250,000 throughout the year.

When the company opened nominations, they were flooded with submissions. Community leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you nominated people that were in need of assistance. As the eyes and ears of the community, these readers were able to help identify people who might have

Anna Sarol

otherwise gone unnoticed or unrecognized.

One such nominee was Kathy*, an aunt who is raising her three young relatives. The children came from an abusive situation, and Kathy, a single guardian, works tirelessly to provide for them. Nevertheless, the family was already living in poverty despite her working seven days a week when Kathy lost her job during the pandemic. She resorted to selling tamales to help pay the rent.

When a case manager with a Big Brothers Big Sisters foster youth mentoring program heard about Lifestyle’s campaign and call for nominations, she quickly thought of Kathy.

“When I shared the news that Kathy was selected and would be receiving $3,000, she cried, screamed, and was in disbelief,” the case manager said. “She immediately wanted to give back to me and the donor by providing endless tamales. This funding allowed the children to have a small Christmas tree for the first time ever. Kathy was able to pay her rent and utilities for three months, and the children were able to experience a holiday season in peace without financial stressors.”

In yet another case, Emily* who worked as a janitor at a school, was a recipient and was struggling to afford simply buying groceries for her children. Before the ongoing difficulties of the pandemic even started, a tornado destroyed the school she worked at just a couple weeks before the initial shutdown in March 2020 which resulted in a loss of income for her. Emily was incredibly surprised and grateful to receive assistance from the giveaway. *Names changed for privacy

28

North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO GIVE AWAY $3OO,OOO This year the company will have nominations for the giveaway open from December 1-15, 2021. To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link.

The amount given to each recipient will be based on need.

The leaders of Lifestyle Publications believe God has blessed them with their company’s continued success, so they in turn wish to be a blessing and encouragement to others as they increase the amount of this year’s giveaway to those in need to $300,000 for the year.

Nominate HERE! Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram

CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

29

CUSTOM HOME IN UPTOWN PHOENIX

CELEBRITY CUSTOM HOME BRINGS EUROPEAN COUNTRYSIDE TO THE SONORAN DESERT. Located on a PRIVATE CUL-DE-SAC, this meticulously maintained home is move in ready. Brick inlay ARCHED VAULTED CEILINGS present a grand formal entry leading to dining, wine cellar and living area. A stunning GOURMET KITCHEN features PROFESSIONAL GRADE VIKING APPLIANCES including 6 BURNER GAS RANGE with GRIDDLE and POT FILLER, FULL SUB ZERO REFRIGERATOR AND FREEZER, BUILT IN MIELE ESPRESSO MACHINE, WARMING DRAWER, large center island, quality custom cabinetry with a 17th CENTURY ITALIAN PANTRY DOOR. The kitchen opens to the GREAT ROOM with soaring hand painted ceilings, WET BAR and BRICK FIREPL ACE. The master suite offers a sitting area, wood beams and luxurious bath with jetted tub and large WALK-THROUGH SHOWER. SEPERATE L AUNDRY HOOK-UP and IRONING STATION in PRIMARY CLOSET along with SECRET STORAGE ROOM. Details like TANKLESS WATER HEATER, TOP OF THE LINE HVAC UNITS, WATER FILTRATION and CENTRAL VAC are included.

A spacious PRIVATE OFFICE with BUILT-IN LIBRARY and COFFERED CEILINGS opens to the front courtyard and a second story casita with PRIVATE ENTRANCE.

623.910.2218 STACYDRAGOS .COM @STACYDRAGOSAZ

REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD 26225 N. 100th Ln Calderwood Ranch 7662 W. Artemisa Ave Caballos Del Rio 3634 W. Morrow Dr Western Meadows 8032 W. Briden Ln Silver Crest At Treasure Canyon 10333 W. Mariposa Grande Custom Home Development 5217 W. Lone Cactus Dr Arrowhead Lakes 7238 W. Softwind Dr Wyndham Village 13033 W. Mine Trail Trilogy At Vistancia 5232 W. Potter Dr Arrowhead Lakes 10408 W. Avenida Del Sol Custom Home Development

REALTY REPORT

NORTH PEORIA

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

$1,999,999.00

$2,100,000.00

105%

42

5

4.5

$1,400,000.00

$1,300,000.00

93%

22

3

3.5

$1,250,000.00

$1,025,000.00

82%

71

5

5

$1,095,000.00

$1,095,000.00

100%

35

6

4.5

$995,000.00

$995,000.00

100%

48

4

4

$994,500.00

$975,000.00

98%

2

4

4

$965,000.00

$955,350.00

99%

116

5

3.5

$950,000.00

$950,000.00

100%

29

3

2.5

$950,000.00

$950,000.00

100%

64

4

4

$949,999.00

$1,125,000.00

118%

19

4

3

T h inkin g of s e llin g b u t ca n’ t f in d a h om e?

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CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

31

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

THROUGH DEC 30

11

12

HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS PARADE

JOLLY OLD ST. NICK'S FAMILY FESTIVAL

Downtown Glendale | 11:00 AM

ELF THE MUSICAL

Hometown

Arizona Broadway Theatre

with proceeds benefitting Hope for

Celebrate the season with a magi-

Based on the 2003 film starring Will

Hunger—takes place in downtown

cal holiday festival. Join Old St. Nick

Ferrell, Elf The Musical is the hilarious

Glendale. Staging at 51st Avenue

and his reindeer at Paseo Verde

tale of Buddy, who, as a baby, mistak-

south of Glendale. The parade goes

Park! Enjoy options for reindeer rides,

enly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and

west on Glendale Avenue to 58th

shopping, yummy food and treats,

is transported to the North Pole. The

Avenue. Parking is available at 59th

face painting, craft activities and mini

2-hour dinner theatre show on the ABT

Avenue & Glendale or 58th Drive &

photos with “Santa.” Tickets include

Mainstage includes entrée, salad, and

Palmaire or along the streets nearby.

reindeer food, goodie bags and raffle

show ticket, with appetizers, dessert,

HCParade.org

tickets. Free for adults and infants. All

Christmas

Parade—

beverages and cocktails available for purchase. AZBroadway.org

5

RUN RUN RUDOLPH HALF MARATHON AND REINDEER DASH

Paseo Verde Park | 12:00 PM

others $10.

11 FREE PEORIA OUTDOOR HOLIDAY MOVIE

Fletcher Heights Park | 4:00 PM

Free Holiday Movie in Fletcher

Rio Vista Park, Peoria | 8:00 AM

Heights Park for the entire family.

Join us as we get Rudolph & the rest

Snuggle in your PJs with hot choco-

of the reindeer ready for delivery day!

late for a classic holiday movie. Food

The Phoenix Run Run Rudolph Half

trucks on hand for purchases. Enjoy

Marathon ($70), Quarter Marathon

kids' holiday dance party, balloon

($50), 5K ($40), and Reindeer Dash

art, holiday music, kids' activities,

($20) will take place on Sunday,

glow fun, holiday shopping, and

Would you like to get in touch with

December 5, at Rio Vista Park in

more. Santa might show up for

us? We would love to hear from you!

Peoria. Runners follow the running

photo ops! The lineup on FB at

Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

trails of the New River Trail System.

TimesTwoEntertainment.

NorthPeoria using the Get In Touch

RaceRoster.com

link and let us know what you think.

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North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

V

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Happy Holidays FROM LEROY’S AUTO & TRUCK CARE May your holidays be filled with love and joy.

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8882 W BELL RD IN PEORIA , or call us (623) 292-3997 CHECK OUT OUR SHOP SPECIALS AT LEROYSAUTOTRUCK.COM CityLifestyle.com/NorthPeoria

33

PARTING THOUGHTS

HE’s GOT GAME BRAD SMIDT SCORES A TOUCHDOWN FOR THE COMMUNITY THROUGH FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES

IN 1971, NINE ARIZONA LEADERS APPROACHED THE NCAA ABOUT BRINGING A BOWL GAME TO ARIZONA, CALLING IT ‘THE STATE’S LARGEST AND MOST IMPORTANT COMMUNITY EFFORT IN HISTORY.’ Fifty years later, the PlayStation® Fiesta Bowl, Guaranteed Rate Bowl, and the Desert Financial Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe are the core programs that support Fiesta Bowl Charities.

The Fiesta Bowl (FiestaBowl.org) has built a track record of creating innovative experiences and championing charitable causes.

Brad Smidt, named Fiesta Bowl Chair of the Year after helming the organization’s 2020 PNC Fiesta Bowl Par 3 Challenge, notes that the committee dons yellow jackets. “Those of us lucky enough to lend our time to these events are called Yellow Jackets.”

Smidt, a Yellow Jacket since 2015, says his favorite aspect of volunteering is the people he meets. His favorite annual event is Desert Financial Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers.

“Through this program, Fiesta Bowl donated $3.7 million total to 850 teachers over five years to fulfill classroom needs,” says Smidt.

Over the past year, Fiesta Bowl has:

+ Donated 50,000-plus pieces of personal protective equipment + Presented over $1 million to Arizona teachers via Desert Financial Fiesta Bowl Charities Wishes for Teachers

+ Provided nearly 3.75 million meals to those in need + Supported more than 688,000 youth through grant programs

ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIESTA BOWL CHARITIES 34

North Peoria Lifestyle | December 2021

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