Investing in Our Community

TRAVEL
INVEST IN LEISURE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
INVEST IN GROWTH
ARTS + CULTURE INVEST IN ART
FOOD + BEVERAGE
INVEST IN FAMILY






TRAVEL
INVEST IN LEISURE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
INVEST IN GROWTH
ARTS + CULTURE INVEST IN ART
FOOD + BEVERAGE
INVEST IN FAMILY
What do you do to make your community a better place?
If you ask anyone around you, they will have a different answer, and that’s what creates a vibrant community. Each of us brings something special, unique, and needed. It matters most when we open our hearts and schedules to share with others.
Many of us think of “investments” as a financial matter, but we make investments of all kinds. Time, talent, friendship, donations, driving, advice, event planning, bringing groups together, providing advice –these and more are the “investments” most important in a community.
Just like we would “invest” in our children’s educations or our retirements, these other “investments” provide the same outcomes: They build social and financial bridges to fill gaps, providing much-needed resources for a better future.
In this month’s issue, you will see investments of all kinds. Kelly Yu, the local business owner of Kawaii Sushi, not only serves incredible dishes but also hires and mentors high school students as staff members, builds long-term relationships, and teaches them the foundation of business. You will also read about how the city has invested in the Arts on our behalf, with unique public art installations around town to provide that surprise and delight to passersby. Most importantly, you will discover the importance of investing in leisure time to refresh and renew.
I believe we can always do more, for doing something for others brings the greatest joy in life. And fortunately for you and me, North Peoria is a place where we, and our investments, matter.
JULIE LACROIX, PUBLISHER @NORTHPEORIALIFESTYLE
PUBLISHER
Julie LaCroix julie.lacroix@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Susan Lanier-Graham susan.lanier-graham@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Nichole Eckman nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Nichole Eckman nichole.eckman@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jen David jen.david@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Mimi Slawoff mslawoff@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Angel Fuchs, Susan Lanier-Graham
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography LLC, Nichole Eckman
OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF
OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
Whitney Lockhart
Rhiannon Coffman
A second-generation steel fabricator, Brandon Bell was born and raised in Yuma to a single mother who taught him the value of hard work and education. After graduating from ASU, Bell reconnected with his father. Together, they grew a small ornamental fence company into the state’s second-largest structural steel fabricator. Branching off on his own, Bell founded Next Level
Next Level Steel is a family-owned and family-focused business. Our American-forged steel beams are 100% American made and Arizona fabricated.
Steel (NextLevelSteel.com) in Mesa in 2020. He opened a second state-of-the-art steelyard and fabrication facility in Goodyear in 2023—Castellated Structural Group to keep up with demand.
Despite launching Next Level Steel (NLS) in the middle of the COVID pandemic, it has grown from six employees to more than 100, with clients ranging from Grand Canyon University, ASU, and the Phoenix Suns to the upcoming Taiwan Semiconductor (TSMC) factory and a new dining hall at the Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma. NLS is the only fabricator in Arizona offering both traditional structural steel and castellated structural steel.
Castellated structural steel is an innovative and eco-friendly technology that Bell says is revolutionizing industrial construction.
"During COVID, there was a surge in warehouse building. We previously didn't focus on that business because most commercial warehouses/light industrial space in Arizona are built with wooden roofs and use little structural steel except for the steel joists," explains Bell. "But because of COVID, the price for roof-building joists tripled as manufacturers struggled with supply chain issues and could not keep up with demand."
That provided an opportunity for Next Level Steel to launch Castellated Structural Group and offer its innovative structural steel as an alternative roofing support material.
Castellated steel beams are a high-tech twist on World War II technology. During the process, NLS slices and splits traditional steel I-beams apart, then precisely welds them back together. The "teeth" carved into the beams are offset, creating a series of precise hexagonal holes that help make the steel stronger, faster to erect, and delivered with less lead time than traditional roofing structures.
Castellated steel beams going into a new building"With the refinements in our manufacturing process and the new facility's higher volumes," says Bell, "we can compete with traditional roof joist companies even if their prices and lead times stabilize."
Next Level Steel is one of several local companies providing structural steel for the massive new TSMC factory. "Many new industrial facilities are being planned around the TSMC property," says Bell, "so it's clear this will be a massive economic driver for the area for decades."
TSMC isn't the only growth in the West Valley. It is home to the state's fastest-growing industrial and logistics corridor, lining the Loop 303/Estrella Freeway from the I-10 in Phoenix north to Surprise and Peoria.
"Next Level Steel is proud to supply our innovative Castellated Steel Beam roofing system for several of these new projects, including the 303 Logistics Phase 2 in Glendale and the latest phase of the Mack Innovation Park in Deer Valley," says Bell.
Bell is proud of the company he founded, and with good reason. The company was just named one of Arizona's Top 50 Private Companies for 2022 revenue, with more than $100 million in revenue for 2023. With such success, Bell is expanding into Greater Las Vegas. And while he is excited about the growth, he believes in keeping the company family-focused. "We recently hosted a family fun day at our Goodyear facility so our hard-working team could celebrate with their families."
The streets of Peoria are vibrant with creativity and color. “Art plays a role in defining and enhancing our community,” says Joey Herring, Public Arts Manager for the City of Peoria.
Peoria proudly boasts permanent art installations throughout town, including sculptures and murals, adding character to the city's streets. One unique program even adds beauty to the cityscape's most mundane objects.
The Utility Box Wrap Program uses a jury panel to select artwork through a competitive process. Selected pieces are then wrapped onto utility boxes for all to enjoy. The program started with just a few wrapped utility boxes and has proven to be such a success that it has expanded to include dozens more. The city has 40 wrapped utility boxes, including 18 recent additions. Every other year, the city updates a handful of the existing utility boxes with new art selected through the same process.
“This art is an amenity to the citizens of Peoria,” says Herring. “It enhances the experience of living in and visiting our city.”
The City of Peoria invites the public to enjoy all city-owned art pieces and learn more about the artists on self-guided tours using a downloadable tour brochure. Find out more about art in Peoria, including the Utility Box Wrap Program, online at PeoriaAZ.gov/government/departments/arts-culture/arts
In 2004, 18-year-old Kelly Yu packed up her young daughter and moved from Hong Kong to the United States in hopes of building a better future.
As a teenager in Hong Kong, Yu's first job was working at a McDonald's restaurant. She says she honed her customer service skills, which helped her land her first job as a server at a local Chinese restaurant in the Phoenix area. Eventually, Yu worked her way up to assistant manager.
“It was my auntie's dream to have her own restaurant,” explains Yu. “And I wanted to help her with her dream.”
“I WAS HIRED WITHOUT EXPERIENCE BUT WAS GIVEN A CHANCE. I WANT TO GIVE YOUNG PEOPLE A CHANCE. I WANT TO EMPOWER AND HELP THEM.”
So, in 2014, Yu joined forces with her aunt, Lisa Selamat, and purchased Kawaii Sushi and Asian Cuisine (KawaiiCuisine.com) on 67th Avenue and Happy Valley Road. Yu and Selamatopened the second Kawaii location on 83rd Avenue and Deer Valley Road four years later.
Both restaurants serve Japanese and Chinese fusion cuisine and have become beloved staples in their communities. The diverse menu features familiar favorites such as orange chicken and sweet and sour pork, along with handcrafted sushi rolls using the freshest, top-quality seafood.
“My grandma was a banquet chef in China, and she cooked for her village,” says Yu. “Many of our recipes are Cantonese and come from my grandma and grandpa.”
Family has been a driving force for Yu. Much of the staff at both restaurants is related to Yu and Selamat, but many are also young people from the community. Yu explains that her start as a young girl in the restaurant industry profoundly impacted her. She feels the importance of paying that forward and giving teenagers the opportunity she had.
“I was given a chance when I was young, so I want to do that for young people,” she explains. “Working in the service industry can help kids in many areas, and it also helps their families.”
Yu speaks fondly of one employee whom she hired as a teenager. “His parents were regular customers, and I hired him,” she says. “He started as a busser, then moved to dishwasher, and finally a server. He was able to put himself through college (at ASU). He even drove back here to help on weekends.”
Family and connection to the community have been vital to Kawaii's success. This month, the Glendale location will celebrate its 10th anniversary. Stop by either Kawaii location to support this local eatery.
My husband and I sold our home a year ago and moved full-time into a 37-footlong fifth-wheel trailer. Over the past year, we've stayed at some great RV parks, but two of my favorites are a short drive from North Peoria: River Sands RV Resort in Ehrenberg, AZ, and Coachella Lakes RV Resort in Coachella, CA.
Both RV resorts allow you to get close to nature and offer plenty of activities to entertain the entire family while enjoying the luxuries of home.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort (CoachellaLakesRVResort.com) is brand new, offering state-of-the-art amenities. Hands down, this was one of my favorite
stays because it was easy and comfortable. The RV sites are huge, and the majority are pull-through spaces. You can rent a vacation cabin if you want to check it out but don't have an RV.
Beyond the basics, there's a lot to keep you busy while staying at Coachella Lakes RV Resort. The weekend we stayed, the park was filled with families all enjoying time together—riding bikes, swimming, playing pickleball, or hanging out on the splash pad. You can also find a world-class 18-hole putting course, a state-of-the-art fitness center, walking paths, and delightful hot tubs.
The clubhouse is gorgeous, making it an ideal spot to relax with a glass of wine or catch up on email. The game room was always filled with fun activities during our stay.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRR HOSPITALITYPart of Greater Palm Springs, the Coachella Valley is the home base for many music and art festivals. There's also plenty to do in Palm Springs and the surrounding areas. You must explore The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, about 30 miles west of the RV resort. Nearby Joshua Tree National Park is known for its unique trees and rock formations.
One of our favorite finds was Twelve, the rooftop bar at Fantasy Springs Resort, a 6-minute drive from Coachella Lakes. One night, we went to the lounge before dinner and enjoyed a glass of wine while watching the sun dip behind the San Jacinto Mountains.
River Sands RV Resort (RiverSandsRVResort.com) is another new RV resort situated on the banks of the Colorado River in Ehrenberg, AZ, less than three hours from North Peoria.
If you're looking for a fun place for tubing this summer, River Sands is your spot. Once you park your RV—or rent one of the cabins—walk to the private beach with river access.
The River Sands community offers the same amenities as Coachella Lakes, without the putting course, but with the Colorado River as a focal point. The clubhouse offers comfy seating indoors and out, overlooking the river. During our stay, there was a cornhole tournament followed by smores.
There's plenty of great fishing and fun in the river, or head out into the desert with your ATVs for off-roading fun.
We drove 18 miles to nearby Quartzsite, one of the quirkiest towns in Arizona, filled with dozens of gem and mineral shops. It was a great afternoon excursion.
You might not be ready to head out in your RV full-time, but getting away for a long weekend is an ideal way to unwind and reconnect with family and friends.
CONTINUED >
Arizona-based CRR Hospitality (CRRHospitality.com) offers customers a luxurious camping experience focused on family, fun, and good times. Whether you choose the Colorado River experience at River Sands RV Resort or the Southern California high desert oasis at Coachella Lakes RV Resort, you can expect the same high level of quality.
• Large 30/50 AMP RV sites
• Pull-through access
• WiFi and Cable
• Vacation rentals available
• Kid and pet-friendly resorts
• Check-in is at 2 p.m. for RV sites and 4 p.m. for vacation rentals
• Check-out time is 11 a.m.
• Pickleball courts
• Pools and hot tubs
• 24-hour fitness center
• Game room
• Gated, secure entry
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTERThis month’s issue discusses investing in our families, homes, communities, businesses, and retirement. Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success. $18.99
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms. $26.95
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark. $18.99
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire. $27.99
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor. $28.99
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein. $30.00
WOMEN
Sentient Sculpt destroys fat and cellulite deep in the tissue while tightening skin at the same time! SPECIALS
IMMEDIATE
YOU ONLY GET ONE RETIREMENT
Retirement marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance and sound financial choices. It's often envisioned as a period of relaxation, exploration and deep connection with family and friends. However, this dream doesn't just manifest. It necessitates forward-thinking and detailed planning, regardless of one's financial status. Amid global economic changes, evolving life expectancies and intricate tax systems, an all-encompassing and strategic retirement plan is more crucial than ever.
A key element of effective retirement planning is diversifying your income sources. While staples like 401(k)s or IRAs are foundational, it's equally important to branch out. Dividend-bearing stocks can provide regular dividends, bonds offer both periodic interest and principal return and real estate, whether directly or indirectly owned, has potential for both rental income and value growth. Private investments can also yield passive income and impressive returns.
Tax considerations significantly influence retirement strategies. Each financial action, from asset sales to account withdrawals, can carry tax consequences. Knowing these details can greatly influence one's overall retirement income. Tactics such as Roth IRA conversions can help distribute tax liabilities over time, allowing for tax-free withdrawals later on. Using strategies like tax-loss harvesting can balance out capital gains, ensuring proactive steps to reduce tax impact.
Annuities have long been recognized as a popular retirement income source. An annuity is essentially a financial contract that can
offer a steady and predictable income, with options that might even extend to lifetime payouts. Available in varieties like fixed, variable and indexed, they often come with tax advantages. However, retirees should also be aware of certain drawbacks. These might include fees and expenses, issues around liquidity, and potential concerns related to inflation.
Delving into the world of Alternative Investments, retirees can consider assets such as hedge funds, private equity and real assets, among others. These investments may promise higher returns and provide diversification away from traditional stocks and bonds. However, the complexities of these investments mean they often come with challenges like illiquidity, higher fees and the need for a thorough understanding of the investment itself.
Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs), while not familiar to everyone, can be a potential retirement income source. Historically rooted, DSTs offer a form of passive real estate investment, which can lead to regular distributions. They also open doors to 1031 exchange possibilities, offering tax deferral benefits. But, just like any other investment, DSTs have their limitations, notably the lack of liquidity and the heavy reliance on trust management.
Introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs) were designed to spur economic development. Investing in these zones can lead to deferral, reduction and even the potential elimination of certain capital gains taxes. However, they often require a long-term investment horizon, and retirees must be well-versed with the specifics of the chosen opportunity zone.
“USING STRATEGIES LIKE TAX-LOSS HARVESTING CAN BALANCE OUT CAPITAL GAINS, ENSURING PROACTIVE STEPS TO REDUCE TAX IMPACT.”
Rental Income remains a favorite for many looking for consistent returns. Whether through direct property ownership or Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), real estate can offer passive income, tax benefits and appreciation. Yet, the responsibilities tied to property management, the uncertainties of market fluctuations and other associated costs must not be ignored.
The backbone of many retirement plans, Social Security Income, provides a safety net for millions. Established with the intent of financial assistance, the amount one receives depends on various factors. There are also strategies retirees can employ to maximize these benefits, such as deciding on the optimal time to claim or considering the implications of working while receiving benefits.
Beyond the immediate realm of retirement, estate planning emerges. This encompasses not just post-retirement arrangements but also asset distribution for future generations or charitable endeavors. Regularly reviewing wills, trusts and beneficiary designations ensures alignment with changing circumstances.
Philanthropy seamlessly integrates with retirement plans. Beyond fulfilling a personal mission to give back, it also carries financial benefits. Using instruments like donor-advised funds or charitable trusts lets individuals make impactful societal contributions while enjoying tax advantages.
You only get one retirement. In the ever-evolving world of finance, staying updated and flexible is essential to ensure the continued relevance and efficiency of one's retirement strategy.
Securities offered only by duly registered individuals of Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/ SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals of Csenge Advisory Group, LLC. MAS, Csenge Advisory Group, LLC and Impact Wealth, LLC are not affiliated entities. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this presentation shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency.
Every retirement journey is distinct, and each vision merits expert guidance. Impact Wealth is based in Boulder Colorado. You can contact them at Impact@ImpactWealth.com.
Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.
Work in partnership with your body. Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and committed partner I will ever have
Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine, don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always always be kind to yourself.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon
• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil
• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos
• Zest and juice from one lemon
• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard
• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened
• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced
• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.
2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.
3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.
4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!
INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!
There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.
It is imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. A room needs a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, and I see this so many times, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I always add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light. Also, candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.
Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.
So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages. You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.
RUNS THROUGH APRIL 24TH
West Valley Art Museum | 10:00 AM
Don't miss the annual juried Celebration of Artists exhibit at West Valley Art Museum on the first floor of Peoria City Hall, 8401 W. Monroe Street.
The exhibit features 100 paintings, drawings, photography, and mixed-media pieces created by Arizona artists. The exhibit is open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m.
APRIL 5TH THROUGH APRIL 8TH
State Farm Stadium | 10:00 AM
Before heading to the games at State Farm Stadium, make a pitstop at the Men's Final Four Tip-off Tailgate presented by Nissan. Free team pep rallies, musical performances, basketball-themed games, plus food and beverages.
Reese's Final Four Friday starts at 10 a.m. on April 5th. The NCAA Men's Final Four is on Saturday and Monday at 7 p.m. StateFarmStadium.com
Park West | 9:00 AM Head to Park West on the Northwest corner of Hwy 101 and Northern every Saturday in April for the Park West Market. More than 130 local vendors, food trucks, live music, kids activities, and more. This is your last chance to check it out until October 2024. Open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
APRIL 13TH
Peoria Sports Complex | 4:00 PM
Foodstock returns from 4 to 10 p.m. featuring gourmet food trucks competing for "best street food truck" as awarded by attendees. Each truck will offer a $5 sample along with its regular menu. Entry is $5 to benefit Foodstock's charitable efforts and Peoria Diamond Club. Family activities include a splash pad and playground. GetLocalArizonaEvents.com
APRIL 20TH
State Farm Stadium | 11:00 AM
Premier custom and classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, pedal cars, and special-interest exhibitors. The car show highlights American classics and customs alike while showcasing dazzling paints, interiors, and customized modifications that embody American culture through vehicles. Catch the car hop exhibition and listen to top entertainers. StateFarmStadium.com
APRIL 27TH
State Farm Stadium | 7:00 PM
This. Is. Monster Jam™! This unexpected, unscripted, and unforgettable motorsports experience for families and fans returns to Glendale for an adrenaline-charged weekend! At Monster Jam®, world champion athletes and their 12,000-pound monster trucks tear up the dirt in wideopen competitions of speed and skill. StateFarmStadium.com
“A year after my surgery I was still experiencing pain and numbness. Physical therapy had helped to a point, but I still wasn't able to resume my normal training without aggravating my back and being forced to limit my activity. Dr. Mitchell and his team immediately identified the problem areas and came up with a treatment plan. After the first visit, I had significant relief and have seen continuous improvement since then.”