Glendale Star 1-19-2023

Health & Wellness Guide

Gov. Hobbs delivers State of the State speech

BY JORDAN ROGERS Glendale Star Managing Editor

In front of a few hundred listeners at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, newly elected Gov. Katie Hobbs delivered her State of the State speech at a luncheon co-hosted by Phoenix Raceway and WESTMARC.

Among those in attendance were officials from Glendale, Peoria, Tolleson, Avondale, Goodyear, Buckeye, Litchfield Park and Phoenix.

Hobbs, a Democrat, is Arizona’s fifth female governor and 24th overall. She is heading into a situation in which tackling her agenda items may be difficult as Republicans hold a slight majority.

Her speech on Jan. 11, however, revealed her plans to be largely bipartisan. Hobbs, regardless of party preference, is looking to better the state of Arizona.

“As governor, I recognize the obligation to listen to find common ground and to provide real solutions for the challenges facing the state,” she said.

“My hope is that when we all leave here today, you understand that I and my administration are committed to action, and to improving the lives of every Arizona,” she later added. “And if you’re committed to those same ideals, then I’m ready to work side by side with you, no matter your party registration.”

Hobbs’ speech revealed plans to meet each of the “challenges” facing the state head on.

“As we look to the future, we cannot continue to kick the can down the road of these issues and many others,” Hobbs said. “We owe it to our fellow Arizonans, both this generation and the next, to face these challenges

SEE HOBBS PAGE 6

Desert Diamond Arena sees new profitability high

BY JORDAN ROGERS

Glendale Star Managing Editor

At the Jan. 10 Glendale City Council Workshop, City Manager Kevin Phelps announced ASM Global, the management company for Desert Diamond Arena, notified the city that the arena recently concluded its most profitable year in its history.

Phelps said the arena’s total gross ticket sales for the previous calendar year exceeded its previous high by more than $10 million. This, he said, shows the controversial decision to part with the Arizona Coyotes was the right one.

“If you recall, if I take you back to August 19, 2021, this council had a very important decision to make when we announced we were parting ways with the Arizona Coyotes,” Phelps said at the council workshop.

“I know that there were skeptics within the media, and perhaps in the community, that questioned whether this was a very prudent move for the arena. And our response and your response as a council was that you had researched this decision out and you knew that the brighter days were ahead for the arena. Today’s announcement, I think, only really validates the

council’s decision to make a move away from having a full-time tenant with the Arizona Coyotes, and so we continue to be very excited about the future of Desert Diamond Arena.”

This past calendar year has been a busy one for the arena. The Westgate Entertainment District’s main attraction has seen an increase in concerts and has become a destination for the Professional Bull Riders’ latest expansion team — the Arizona Ridge Riders.

In addition, it was renamed from Gila River Arena to its current name, Desert

SEE ARENA PAGE 8

Gov. Katie Hobbs delivered her State of the State speech in front of a few hundred listeners at Phoenix Raceway on Jan. 11. (Matt Young/Contributor)

7301 N. 58th Avenue, Glendale AZ 85301 (623) 237-7100 gesd40.org

GESD STUDENTS ATTEND STEM EDUCATION EVENT

HOSTED BY THE AZ SUPER BOWL HOST COMMITTEE

Cindy Segotta-Jones, Superintendent

The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee, Education Forward Arizona, and Freeport-McMoRan recently hosted "100 Yards of Education: A STEM Playbook for Youth" at State Farm Stadium. Students from GESD's Challenger School were invited to attend a day of interactive Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math learning activities created by local partner organizations. The event kicked off with retired Arizona Cardinals legend and Host Committee Executive Board Chairperson Larry Fitzgerald sharing words of encouragement to inspire students to pursue lifelong learning.

Councilmember Joyce Clark named vice mayor

BY GLENDALE STAR STAFF

The Glendale City Council recently selected Councilmember Joyce Clark to serve as Glendale’s vice mayor for 2023.

Clark has served on the city council on three different occasions, beginning in 1992. As vice mayor, Clark will be responsible for performing the duties of Glendale’s mayor during absence. She will serve in this position for one year. Councilmember Clark also held the title of vice mayor in 2019.

“I am honored and pleased to once again have been chosen by the city council to serve as Glendale’s vice mayor,” Clark said. “I am so proud to serve the residents of the Yucca District and our city each day. This is not a role I will take lightly.”

Clark graduated from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland with a dual BA in U.S. history and education. Her past careers include high school history teacher, small-business ownership of a bookstore, a professional ceramist and

founder of a retail craft gallery. Clark and her husband have three children and seven grandchildren.

Clark was elected as the first Yucca

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She is the only elected official in the state of Arizona to have defeated an incumbent as a write-in candidate and to have subsequently defeated a second incumbent.

In total, Clark has served the city of Glendale for 22 years and begins her 23rd year with the city this calendar year.

In addition to her roles with the city of Glendale, she also currently serves on the Arizona League of Cities and Towns Budget and Finance Committee.

“Having Councilmember Clark as the vice mayor brings a lot to the table,” Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers said. “Her decades of experience on the city council are invaluable. I look forward to serving with her in this role.”

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Councilmember

head on. … I’m an optimist, especially when it comes to Arizona. I believe we are the greatest state in this nation.”

Education

Hobbs said education gave her a chance to “build a better life” for herself. She has spent much of her life “fighting for better schools and to level the playing field,” and will continue to do so as governor.

She began discussing the Aggregate Expenditure Limit, a 1980 act passed to limit the total amount of money that all K-12 schools can spend each year.

“As part of last year’s budget negotiations, a promise was made that a special session would be called to override this limit that’s based on an out-of-date, 40-year-old funding formula that’s holding our public schools hostage,” Hobbs said. “That promise was not kept.”

She said if this went unaddressed, that the state would see a $1.3 billion cut — the largest in Arizona’s history — and cause furloughs, layoffs and school closures.

“It is unnecessary to allow these hysterics to go on any longer,” she said. “Let’s give our students, our teachers and our parents the assurance that schools will remain.”

Hobbs said it is time to seriously invest in public schools, and her budget reflects that. Starting with teachers, she said they get “stuck in the middle of crises of our own making.”

She cited that 1 in 4 teachers leave Arizona schools each year — the highest rate in the nation. That leaves “more than 2,500 classroom educator positions” vacant.

“To the teachers and education support professionals of our state — I see you, I respect you and I will always stand up for you,” Hobbs said.

She said Arizona does not have an educator shortage, but rather a retention crisis.

“There are too many amazing professionals who have walked away from the career they love because of the uncompetitive salaries, onerous policies and unfunded mandates this state has chosen to implement that rob educators of the joy of teaching,” Hobbs said.

“Teachers are creating the workforce and leaders of tomorrow, and it’s time we started treating them with the respect they deserve.

To tackle that, Hobbs said she has plans to launch an Educator Retention Task Force, an initiative that will focus on improving class sizes, resources, working conditions and other factors that will put the state on a path to fix its education issues and retain educators.

“I hope we can all agree that when we keep the most talented teachers in the classroom, our kids win, our families win and our communities win,” she said.

Hobbs also will focus on equal funding for all schools. Currently, Arizona distributes more money to schools under a per-pupil basis based on grades and assessment results.

“This approach has largely benefited only schools in high-wealth areas of Arizona’s two largest counties — Maricopa and Pima — while leaving rural and economically struggling areas behind,” she said.

The new budget, Hobbs said, will redirect $68.6 million to the Base Level Support. This, she added, will be distributed to all schools across the state.

“Let me go on the record to say that any school that accepts taxpayer dollars should have to abide by the same accountability standards that all district schools do,” Hobbs said. “We have seen too many examples of individuals and shady corporations taking advantage of the system and our students.”

Additionally, Hobbs is planning to expand the Arizona Promise Scholarship Program to include 10,000 more students and allocate $40 million for the Promise for DREAMers Scholarship Program. This will assist all students across the state regardless of immigration status.

“My administration is ready and willing to work with any member of the Legislature to find additional solutions,” Hobbs said. “We need to work together to ensure that Arizona’s higher education opportunities are the best in the nation and put individuals on the path to future prosperity.”

Housing

Arizona’s job market, the governor said, is robust. But on the flip side of that coin, the cost of housing

has reached a high. This is something Hobbs wants to work on.

“Too many Arizona families are getting further away from achieving the American Dream due to the high cost of housing,” she said. “Our state is no stranger to the boom-and-bust housing cycles. But this is something totally different. Three Arizona cities — Tucson, Mesa and Phoenix — have seen some of the highest rent increases in the nation; the number of individuals experiencing homelessness has risen significantly in recent years. We can do better.”

To see a change in this aspect, Hobbs said she and her administration will support a $150 million investment into the Housing Trust Fund this year and will call for additional support moving forward. She will also set aside $50 million for a state-level, child tax credit for families earning less than $40,000 a year to help pay for the rising costs of necessities for their children.

Regarding homelessness, Hobbs wasted no time into her tenure to get working on it. The governor signed an executive order re-establishing the Interagency and Community Council on Homelessness and Housing.

“This should only be the start,” she said. “My administration is ready and willing to work with members of the Legislature, and my door will always be open to any member who brings forward a serious proposal to help Arizona families, seniors and communities.”

United States and Mexico border

Hobbs said she is planning on building a “safe Arizona for everyone.” This, she said, “extends to our border, our broken immigration system and the communities across the state who must continue to bear the brunt of Washington’s decades of failure on this critical issue.”

She will work directly with communities and its leaders, sheriffs, local law enforcement, community centers and hospitals while pushing Washington to make necessary changes. Hobbs has also invited Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to visit the border with her and meet with those who want “effective and humane solu-

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tions to this longtime challenge.”

“We must take a holistic, realistic and humane approach to help solve this issue,” she said.

Reproductive health care

Hobbs said “more than 90%” of Arizonans believe abortion should be legal. During her tenure, she said she will be supporting the right for everyone to make their own decisions regarding health care.

“I refuse to stand by and do nothing as my daughter or anyone’s daughter now has fewer rights today than I did growing up,” she said.

“I will use every power of the governor’s office to stop any legislation or action that attacks, strips or delays the liberty or inherent right of any individual to decide what is best for themselves or their families,” she later added.

Hobbs’ budget will match the federal

Title X money Arizona receives to provide reproductive health services and family planning medication, bringing the state’s total to more than $12 million.

“I urge members of the Legislature to put bills on my desk that will protect women, support families, and create a future for Arizona where anyone regardless of gender can succeed,” Hobbs said.

Water

For Hobbs, Arizona’s water crisis is the “challenge of our time.” On this, she called on the state to be unified in addressing this issue through “bipartisan solutions at a local, statewide and national level.”

The governor cited that on Jan. 1, the Colorado River Tier 2 mandatory water cuts went into effect, which means that Arizona will lose 21% of its water coming from the river.

“We must also all understand this —

barring a miracle from nature, it will likely get worse before it gets better,” Hobbs said.

“This should be a wake-up call for all of us, because it will take all of us to solve it — legislators, public officials, the business community. Each and every one of us must commit to the partnerships needed to avoid this.”

For transparency purposes, Hobbs’ administration published a previously unreleased report by the Arizona Department of Water Resources that shows that portions of Phoenix are short of the 100-year assured water supply program by 15%.

“This report unequivocally shows that we have to act now,” Hobbs said.

“I don’t understand and don’t in any way agree with my predecessor choosing to keep this report from the public. However, my decision to release this report signals how I plan to tackle our water: issues openly and directly.”

Hobbs will also sign an executive

order to launch the Governor’s Water Policy Council and expand the Groundwater Management Act.

“We must take these actions today because in many parts of our state, there are effectively no restrictions on groundwater pumping and local communities have little to no support to manage water supplies,” she said. “As a result, a new water user can move in, dig a well and pump as much water as possible, even if it dries up the community’s aquifer.”

In closing her speech, Hobbs again discussed that, through bipartisan leadership, Arizona has a bright future.

“We all hold a deep love for this state,” she said. “We are here because we want to ensure the generations that follow us have the chance to discover that love, too. Thank you for your partnership in finding real solutions and for the contributions we will all make going forward as we build an Arizona for everyone. Now let’s get to work.”

Diamond Arena, on Aug. 23, 2022, on a 10-year deal between Glendale and Desert Diamond Casinos.

When news of the arena’s renaming came down, news on upgrades and enhancements came with it. Phelps said at the city workshop that one of those enhancements will be coming within “the next few weeks.”

“In a in a few weeks, we’re going to be installing a mesh banner on the

roof of the arena that will be showing the name and logo of our new naming rights partner, which is of course Desert Diamond Casinos,” he said. “We’re doing this in front of the Super Bowl knowing that there’s going to be a tremendous amount of aerial coverage of our district and of our community. So, we’re getting this done prior to that happening.”

Much is changing for the Westgate Entertainment District, but all the

moving parts seem to be working for the better, as evidenced by the news of Desert Diamond Arena’s profitability.

“Congratulations to the council on the decision made,” Phelps said. “I think today’s news about the success of the arena is significant and the amount of increase is really measurable. So, thanks also to ASM (Global) and to our arena partner because they’ve done a phenomenal job managing through that.”

ARENA FROM PAGE 1

Desert Diamond Arena reported its most profitable year in its history. (File photo)

City council holds reinvestment project workshop

BY JOE MCHUGH Glendale Star Staff Writer

Glendale City Council recently hosted another workshop to discuss the plans to renovate the campus and improve upon the city hall building, Murphy Park and other aspects of the campus.

Holly Street Studios’ principal, Diane Jacobs, and City Manager Kevin Phelps, presented a 60-slide presentation to show the updates that have come along since the project’s last workshop in November 2022, including three detailed plans at three different price points.

From being in the very beginning stages of planning and designing back in August 2022, the council has had four separate updates and workshops that led to the Jan. 6 workshop. Jacobs and Phelps began the workshop by presenting the council with a brief history of what has happened from the project’s initial conception in 2017.

“It’s really a handful of projects under one umbrella,” Jacobs said.

Throughout the presentation, Jacobs depicted many things that were thought to have needed fixing. She discussed that the city hall building was starting to break down, as over time things like the stairs and elevators have become dated and the walls were leaking air and water.

Murphy Park was also discussed during the presentation. Renovations for the park will focus on accommodating a bigger crowd and have more space for performers at its amphitheater.

“The walkability and the uniqueness of Downtown Glendale is an asset that anybody starting a project like this from scratch, would be thrilled to have,” Jacobs said. “The fact that you’re doing this work right in the heart of Downtown will speak volumes as to the economic development opportunities moving forward and beyond this campus.”

After going through the specifics,

Jacobs and Phelps presented three separate options of possible renovation plans. The project was given a $70 million budget for Holly Street Studios to follow.

The Base Option was the first presented. It offers the most minimal of renovations of the three options, but it is as close to the $70 million budget out of the options, clocking in at $70.4 million. It will still include multiple improvements to Murphy Park, the city hall building, such as a new skin on the building and repairs to the roof.

The Opportunity Option was the second. This serves as the happy medium of the presented plans, coming in at $85.7 million, $15 million over the budget.

“In this scheme, we’re taking care of deferred maintenance for the main buildings city hall, and we’re refreshing city council in a way that I understand is meant to happen in the future anyway, but doing it all at once so that we’re not disturbing the site multiple times,” Jacobs said.

This option builds upon the Base Option. It includes better renovations to the city hall building, parking garage, amphitheater and infrastructure around the campus. It also would add

solar panels to the roof of the city hall building.

The last of the three is the Aspirational Option. This is the most inflated of the three, clocking in at a whopping $100 million roughly. A set dollar amount was not available as the plan is still in early design.

“This scheme begins to look at the possibility of bringing city council functionality into city hall with the idea of the smaller footprint needed to do the business of city council and bringing that into city hall,” Jacobs said. “And this is just conceptual. At the moment, we’re able to expand Murphy Park to a whole other level of green within your village center.

“In this scheme, you still have the plaza on the lower left of the entry plaza from the parking garage. But, also the amphitheater is now at the street level. So you begin to make that connectivity at a whole other level with the amphitheater to Downtown Glendale and it begins to kind of open up and synthesize to a greater extent.”

Following the presentation, the city’s councilmembers peppered the presenters with questions. Councilmember Lauren Tolmachoff took the lead asking questions regarding the need

to spend so much more money on the opportunity and the aspirational plans. She followed up by asking about how safe the building would be on the side of Glendale Avenue, and for the need to renovate the whole building rather than reskin it.

Councilmember Jamie Aldama was more concerned with the public, as he felt they should be adequately represented in the thought process and decision making of which plan to go with.

“The first question is, how much of these final designs or thus far, A, B and C took the input from our citizens?” Aldama proposed. “Can you answer that? So how much of this has to do with what they asked?

“When you’re wanting to spend $70 million plus, $85 million plus, $100 million plus, and they had some input on what they expect from this project. I would expect that we back up and say, this meeting should have been theirs and should have said, ‘Here’s what we’re looking at, what are your thoughts so we can get some guidance from the council.’”

Councilmembers Bart Turner, Ray Malnar and Ian Hugh posed questions regarding other aspects of the plaza.

At the end of the day, Phelps and Jacobs were unable to persuade the council to come to a final decision on a project plan. Mayor Jerry Weiers suggested a future meeting be planned to further include the public.

“Thank you, I listen to everybody; everybody makes some valid points,” Weiers said. “We struggle with this all the time, every time we want to make a decision. There’s always a certain amount of people that want to postpone and slow the process down. And that’s not always bad. It’s not necessarily always good either.

“I think maybe I would ask our city manager the possibility of maybe posting some sort of presentation to the public, getting some input and possibly bringing this back in the very, very near future.”

The Glendale City Hall Complex is slated to receive a major facelift from the Downtown Reinvestment Project. (City of Glendale/Submitted)

Detectives make arrest after seizing drugs, pills

GLENDALE STAR STAFF

Glendale detectives recently seized several pounds of drugs and thousands of pills during a search warrant execution.

Omar Evaristo Valenzuela Arella, 42, was arrested after the search warrants and he was booked on several charges. Those include possession of narcotic and dangerous drugs for sale, transportation of dangerous drugs for sale, misconduct involving weapons possession by a prohibited possessor, and money laundering.

On Jan. 6, the Glendale Narcotics

Enforcement Team, alongside other agencies, completed a traffic stop and served search warrants at three different locations. During the execution of the search warrants, seven pounds of fentanyl powder, more than 16-thousand fentanyl pills, 25 pounds of methamphetamine, four pounds of heroin, one gram of cocaine and two handguns were seized.

(Clockwise from Top Right) Two pounds of heroin and seven pounds of fentanyl powder, 14,500 fentanyl pills, and 20 pounds of methamphetamine. (Glendale Police/Submitted)

Good service evaporating on the business landscape

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Glendale Star Columnist

Can we talk for a moment about service in America circa 2023?

This seems necessary because one of two things is afoot in this land of ours.

Either we are seeing the result of businesses being distracted from the real reason they operate — to serve their customers or clients. Or there’s a less pleasant possibility — Americans are getting dumber with each passing year.

Whatever the explanation, I think we all can agree that the old days — when the customer was always right and spending money at a business

meant they strived to fulfill your needs — is deader than a doornail, though we’ve yet to bury the corpse.

I say this having recently returned home from Starbucks with what was allegedly a black coffee. In theory, this should be the easiest beverage to manufacture in this $26 billion global brand’s arsenal.

Drinking said beverage revealed it to be the approximate sweetness of a cinnamon roll. My pancreas spasmed like Kari Lake on Election Day. Reading the cup revealed I had received something called a caramel brulee latte, a drink I can neither pronounce nor stomach.

Typically, I wouldn’t complain about such trivia. But it seems nowadays that everywhere I go — that any of us goes — we end up with the wrong order.

Last week, I got not a few wrong groceries delivered, but every single item wrong. I feel bad for the poor lady who ordered tampons, skim milk, salad fixings and Purina cat food but ended up with my ground beef, spinach and popsicles.

One place I favor that rarely screws up is In-N-Out. Maybe they do a superior job training their people, but more likely their very limited menu makes screwing up difficult.

They serve burgers, fries and drinks. There’s no SpongeBob kiddie meals, no tuna sliders on special this month, and they don’t seem anxious to shove their politics down your throat.

At Starbucks, the menu is in constant flux. So are the pronouns on employees’ name tags and the associated politics of the workplace.

In the last quarter of 2022, the company announced a new loyalty partnership with Delta Airlines, the opening of their 6,000th location — in China — and an international “leadership excellence” retreat to help managers “lead their stores and store partner (employees) through the company’s reinvention.”

“We must all think of ourselves as brand new — for the next few days we’ve got to get into a growth mindset,” North American Vice President Sarah Trilling told her colleagues.

“What worked yesterday may not work today. We have to think differently.”

Actually, what Starbucks has to do is make coffee. That’s why people go to Starbucks — for the coffee. Not for the growth mindset.

Or for what company founder, Howard Schultz, described in a letter to employees late last year as his “business philosophy” based on “the compounding momentum” of love.

I’m not sure what that means. And it may be a felony in Arizona.

The other possibility for this poor service is human error. Last week, the White House announced that a record number of Americans — nearly 160 million — are now employed.

Part of that is population growth. It also may be that people are so poor these days, they can’t afford to retire or skip work to attend college. Given how often we hear about businesses struggling to find workers, one thing seems certain: We appear to have scraped the bottom of the talent barrel.

The basic qualification for work today isn’t the willingness to exude perspiration. It’s the ability to exhibit respiration.

Employees who show up get to work. Customers who show up? Don’t expect much and maybe you won’t be disappointed.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

It is once again time for the Super Bowl

BY JUDY BLUHM Glendale Star Columnist

Football. Once again it is that time of year when we Americans obsess over who will make it to the Super Bowl. The fate of our beloved Cardinals has been decided as they got crushed by San Francisco. Maybe our consolation prize is that Arizona is hosting the Big Game.

And that Super Day is not just a sports event. It is a cultural phenomenon that sweeps the country, starting out in our kitchens!

We will have consumed about 100 billion chicken wings just watching the playoffs. But on Super Bowl Sunday, we Americans will eat over 125 billion wings! That would be enough chicken wings to fill up 1,083,333 football fields! Oh yeah, but we won’t stop there. Domino’s Pizza claims it will deliver 12 million slices of pizza on that one afternoon! And to wash it all down? How about 325 million gallons of beer?

Football is not a game. It is a sensation! We will not be derailed by current events or nightly news. Politics? Don’t really care! Inflation? Oh well! We have more important things to think about! There is rushing, passing, unnecessary roughness, tackling, kicking, interceptions and touchdowns to consider.

We don’t even need to have a home team in the finals to still pick a favorite. The Super Bowl is a spectacle, a show, a never-ending food fest. It is

the second-largest American food consumption day of the year, right behind Thanksgiving. We will eat all manner of unhealthy, fattening, tasty things that we rarely bother with the rest of the year. Which is a very good thing, because we’d all blow up like blimps if we kept it up. Fortunately, the Super Bowl only comes once a year.

I might get some yummy Velveeta and make one of those delicious cheese dips. My daughter says Velveeta is made by the devil and is nothing more than yellow chemicals. My girlfriend says the thought of Velveeta makes her ill and it should be banned as a food product because it is not even cheese! My doctor says that it could clog our arteries faster than you can scream, “Touchdown!” I call, “Foul!” Dice up the yellow log of God knows what, add a little salsa and microwave for a minute. Heaven waits. Why worry when there are games to watch!

Derived from English rugby, American football was started in 1879 with rules instituted by Walter Camp, a player and coach at Yale University. Actually, football has its roots in soccer, which was played 200 years B.C. when Chinese players kicked pig bladders or skulls (hopefully not human) back and forth. In fact, entire villages got involved and one game lasted three days with 900 players! Now that would have been fun to watch! From pig bladders to pig skins, we have come a long way (not to mention eating like piggies).

Dear readers, I hope your favorite team makes it through the playoffs. If not, we can drown out our blues with 325 million gallons of beer. One glass at a time. Game on! Judy Bluhm

Carolina’s Mexican Food comes to Glendale

BY JOE MCHUGH Glendale Staff Staff Writer

Carolina’s Mexican Food is opening its sixth location in Arizona, as the popular restaurant is coming to Glendale.

This location will be the third in the West Valley and will open Glendale’s eyes and stomachs to the historical Mexican restaurant that has been around since the 1960s.

“We are super excited,” Carolina’s Chief Operations Officer Brian Jones said. “Glendale has been a great, great city and very welcoming.”

A restaurant that started in the back of the founder’s car, Carolina’s now serves a wide variety of customers. It is partly a quick-serve, fast-casual Mexican restaurant that operates mainly on to-go orders. But it also operates as a full sit-down restaurant.

Carolina’s menu is full of classic Mexican food, such as burritos, tacos and tortas, among others.

Namely known for its 15-inch handmade tortillas, Carolina’s food is all made from scratch. From beans and rice to chimichangas and everything in between, Carolina’s focuses on utilizing the freshest ingredients to provide the best quality.

All of this should take a lot of time, but Carolina’s has a rule about every plate.

“Everything’s made from scratch, but our goal is to have every ticket out and done within seven minutes,” Jones said. “That’s even for a full on chimichanga plate with rice and beans, which is like a machaca burrito, deep fried, with guacamole and sour cream on top. I mean everything garnished looking great.”

This attention to customer detail has been one of the restaurant’s biggest assets and, in turn, has helped set it apart from other competing businesses.

“We focus on speed of service and quality of service at the same time,” Jones said. “It’s a dual task. Most economists will say, ‘Do you want fast service? Do you want quality service? Or do you want quality food? Take two, because no one can accomplish all three,’ And I say, ‘Go pound sand. That’s not true.’”

Sticking to the original business model has been beneficial for Carolina’s, as it has been able to build a loyal base of regulars that visit often. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the Mexican restaurant hit the drawing

board to keep trending upward.

“Once the pandemic hit and it shut down our dining room, we went into a massive scramble of how are we going to navigate through this,” Jones said. “And by the grace of God, a couple of things happened pretty immediately. One is we were already in the process of building out our own online app, through the Apple Store or Google Play Store and through the app, you could order online, place your order and then you’d come in and just pick it up.

“From there, we added curbside pickup and we partnered with delivery partners like DoorDash and Uber and a few other ones. We really ramped up our online presence.”

Post-pandemic, Carolina’s is back in the dining room getting back to the basics, providing quality service and quality food to its customers.

Now, Carolina’s is looking to expand into the Northwest Valley to bring its food to people who have never tried it, or have traveled to try it, so now it will be in their backyards, with things that have never been done before in any Carolina’s restaurant.

“We’re hoping to open another location in 2023 be that in Glendale, or Peoria or somewhere in the Northwest Valley; we’re kind of looking in that same area, because that area does so well,” Jones said. “We’re looking at what it would look like to have a Carolina’s drive thru. We’d really like to be the In-N-Out of Mexican food.”

To launch its latest restaurant in Glendale, Carolina’s held a grand opening on Jan. 10. Among the numerous festivities at the grand opening, Mayor Jerry Weiers spoke at the grand opening and he helped kick off the festivities.

Carolina’s handed out some prizes at the event as well, including over $5,000 in gift cards, and the first 100 people in line were entered with a chance to win a $20 gift card. One lucky winner throughout the day would win free burritos for a year.

“(This is) just our way to say thank you to our loyal customers or loyal fans,” Jones said. “Again, we’re super excited to be out in Glendale.”

With help from Mayor Jerry Weiers, Carolina’s Mexican Food cut the ribbon on its sixth Arizona location and first in Glendale. (Carolina’s Mexican Food/Submitted)

A celebration highlighting this community’s award-winning SPARK™ program and unique approach to caring for seniors who are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

JOIN THE AUBERGE AT PEORIA

JOIN THE AUBERGE AT PEORIA

Grand Opening

Grand Opening

JANUARY 19 • 6 - 8 PM

Guests are invited to view this freshly remodeled memory care community. Appetizers and drinks will be curated by the Auberge’s Head Chef. Plus, enjoy big-band era music, a champagne tower, and a photo booth.

A celebration highlighting this community’s award-winning SPARK™ program and unique approach to caring for seniors who are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

A celebration highlighting this community’s award-winning SPARK™ program and unique approach to caring for seniors who are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Guests are invited to view this freshly remodeled memory care community. Appetizers and drinks will be curated by the Auberge’s Head Chef. Plus, enjoy big-band era music, a champagne tower, and a photo booth.

Apartment availability is limited; take advantage of an event-only special! If you like an apartment, simply leave a deposit at the event and receive a $1000.00 rent credit per month starting in February.

Apartment availability is limited; take advantage of an event-only special! If you like an apartment, simply leave a deposit at the event and receive a $1000.00 rent credit per month starting in February.

RSVP • (623) 977-1431

RSVP • (623) 977-1431

JANUARY 13391 Peoria, AubergePeoria.com

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13391 N 94th Dr. Peoria, AZ 85381

13391 N 94th Peoria, AZ 85381 AubergePeoria.com

Ball rolls in favor of Peoria in game versus Cactus

BY JOE MCHUGH Glendale Star Staff Writer

For the first time of the season, the Peoria High School and Cactus High School boys basketball teams squared off in a region matchup featuring two of the state’s top 20 teams.

The Cobras were sporting a 14-1 record, coming into the game fresh off a heartbreaking loss on a last second three-pointer against Phoenix Thunderbird. The Panthers were listening to a similar tune, having dropped their last two games to Phoenix Sunnyslope and ALA Gilbert North.

Both teams were looking to bounce back in Jan. 11’s contest.

“They’ll be ready,” Cactus head coach Dirk Walker said prior to the game. “Their minds have been right; they’re focused and ready to go. It’s just a matter of relaxing and not coming out too emotional and too tight and tense in this type of game, especially against your rival.”

“We are very locked in,” Peoria head coach Patrick Battillo said of his team. “One, coming off a loss added a whole other layer to it. It’s going to be a very hostile environment as expected. Our energy levels are going to be high, but it is a very focused weekend and week of practice as we head into (the game). So, I’m excited to see us execute that game plan and go out there and play very hard and compete and get a victory.”

The hostile environment Batillo expected was out to play, as the arena was full of supporters from both teams.

The elephant in the room, literally, for Peoria, was how to game plan against its adversary’s best player, Cactus forward, Bradey Henige. The seven-footer has been dominant this season, averaging 33 points and 27 rebounds per tilt.

Battillo said his team had a plan,

though.

“Brady’s talented, extremely talented,” Battillo said. “We see him in region play, we saw him this summer as well, so we have a pretty solid game plan of how we’re going to approach Cactus on the offensive end. And then on the defensive end, the work that we’re going to put in towards not just Brady but the team to limit their opportunities.”

Cactus was in for a stroke of luck, too, as Peoria guard Andrew Camacho was out with a hand injury, leaving nearly 30 points and four steals per game on the bench. This forced the Cobras to game plan against the Panthers’ other threats on offense, like forward Calvin Windley, and guards Caden Bass and Chris Brookins.

“(We hope) they are off,” Walker said about their game plan. “They have a lot of weapons. It’s tough to just focus on one, because they can hurt you in so many areas. So, it’s got to be sound defensively, communicating well, rotating well, and making sure we are contesting shots, as well

as being able to guard the dribble.”

Come tip-off time, it was all Peoria.

The Panthers jumped out to a quick 10-0 lead in the first quarter, stymieing Henige and the Cobras’ offensive front. The momentum carried into the halfway point of the second quarter, as Peoria held a 22-10 lead.

After some back-andforth scoring, Cactus narrowed the Peoria lead to just seven points. The first half ended in a 35-28 score in favor of Peoria.

“Guys hit shots that we wanted to make shoot, and a couple banked in threes for them,” Walker said. “And execution, we just didn’t execute like we should. We turned the ball over way too much, 14 turnovers in the first half.”

Come the second half, Cactus was faced with a glaring problem — Henige had already racked up four fouls, which forced him to come out of the game, which led to plenty of Panther scoring to capitalize, specifically from Windley.

“I was really confident,” Windley said. “So when I get to steal or like when a guard Bradey, you know, brings the confidence to a high level, because he’s also a seven-footer and I could open my ways to better things and guard one through five.”

Windley’s confidence carried through the rest of teammates, as the Panthers increased their lead to as high as 20 points on the backs of him, Bass and Brookins, and

Peoria wound up cruising to a victory. The 84-63 scoreline was a statement victory for the Panthers.

“From a coaching perspective, again, I always talk about it’s a blessing of adversity,” Battillo said. “We can capitalize from that, or fold. And they’re accepting the challenge and we’re not folding, and so now we just have to continue to build upon that, which is only going to make us stronger.”

“Credit to Peoria,” Walker said following the loss. “Obviously we knew they were going to pressure, but a lot of it was our own mistakes. Just forcing things when they weren’t there and making poor decisions, but all credit to Peoria they played really well. They hit shots that we wanted them to hit, and they knocked them in so a lot of credit for it.”

The two West Valley heavyweights aren’t done seeing each other yet this season, as the two will again share the court at Peoria High School on Tuesday, Jan. 24.

Peoria sophomore guard Caden Bass (24) drives against Cactus junior guard Jacob Minniefield (24). (David Minton/Sta Photographer)

Cactus junior forward Bradey Henige (42) puts back a rebound. (David Minton/Sta Photographer)

HEALTH WELLNESS

Cognitive health affects independence, quality of life

BY TERESA BROBECK, PH.D., CCC-SLP Midwestern University

Performing routine daily activities such as cooking, scheduling appointments, driving and paying bills requires us to think clearly, learn and remember. Our thought processes, learning abilities and memory capabilities are all components of our “cognitive health.” Experts on aging suggest that our cognitive health directly impacts both our level of independence and our quality of life.

The National Institute on Aging indicates factors that can directly influence our cognitive health:

• Physical health.

• Management of blood pressure.

• Access to and intake of healthy foods.

• Physical activity level.

• Engagement in mentally stimulating activities.

• Social connection with others.

• Management of stress.

Hearing, vision and dental health also impact our ability to communicate and participate in the world around us. Brain health is also directly impacted by our nutritional intake and sleep quality.

Monitoring and implementing strategies early and frequently in each of the above areas to maximize our physical and cognitive health may be beneficial for maintaining cognitive health and slowing cognitive decline.

As we age, mild changes in cognition can result in slower processing speed, slower word-finding and recall of names, and reduction in our ability to pay attention and

“multitask” — even though our vocabularies, knowledge base and life experiences are more extensive.

While mild changes in cognition can be part of the normal aging process, if changes in memory, problem-solving abilities or clear expression of information seem more significant, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your doctor or other health care professional for further assessment.

The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, care

or treatment. Always consult a qualified health care provider with any questions regarding any possible medical condition.

Teresa Brobeck, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, is an associate professor in the speech-language pathology program at Midwestern University. Speech-language pathology students and faculty at the Midwestern University Therapy Institute in Glendale utilize the latest technology to evaluate and treat a wide range of speech, language, cognitive and swallowing disorders in children and adults, at affordable prices. Call 623-537-6000 or visit mwuclinics.com/arizona.

As we age, early monitoring of and implementing strategies for modifiable risk factors that can affect physical and cognitive health can help to both maintain cognitive health as well as slow cognitive decline. (Midwestern University/Submitted)

TRUST OUR EXPERTS TO HELP YOUR FAMILY

With over 25 years of Eldercare experience, our nationwide company provides seniors and their families with expert advice on long-term and senior housing

Why Assisted Living Locators?

Assisted Living Locators is a FREE referral service. Our professional Eldercare Advisors provide personal assistance in locating the right options for your elderly loved one. An Eldercare Advisor can reduce your stress by providing a free consultation and help you find the right Home Care, Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care, Assisted Living, Nursing Homes and Retirement Communities.

CALL 623-703-5326 For No Cost Referral Service

FOUR EASY STEPS

Assisted Living Locators offers free senior referral services

BY ASSISTED LIVING LOCATORS

Assisted Living Locators provides a free senior referral service in Glendale, Peoria, Sun City and Surprise, throughout the East and West valleys.

Assisted Living Locators provides the full continuum of care, offering assistance in locating quality assisted living options throughout the Valley based on the clients’ budget, preferred location and medical needs.

The franchise is owned by elder care adviser and registered nurse Lori Sears. Assisted Living Locators offers a no-cost service for seniors and their families providing advice on shortand long-term care options, including in-home care, independent living, assisted living, memory care and independent retirement communities. It generates revenue from the fees per placement paid by the assisted living facilities.

For more information about Assisted Living Locators, call Lori Sears at 623-703-5326, email lsears@ assistedlivinglocators.com or visit assistedlivinglocators.com/westvalley.

Lori Sears owns the local Assisted Living Locators franchise. She’s an elder care adviser and registered nurse. (Submitted photo)

A quick lesson: Circulation 101

BY DR. GRANT FANKHAUSER Vascular Surgeon

Why is good circulation important?

Having good circulation allows the body to function at its best. When part of the body isn’t getting the blood flow it needs, it can cause pain, cramping, fatigue, slow healing or even gangrene.

Why should people be concerned about poor circulation?

Poor circulation can definitely cause symptoms such as cramping or pain, but it also is an indicator that there might be blockages in important arteries such as those in the heart or going to the brain. Blockages in those vessels can cause heart attacks or strokes so we always screen our patients for arterial disease elsewhere, aiming to catch

those potential problems before they become apparent.

What can happen if you ignore the symptoms?

Ignoring the symptoms can, at its worse, lead to amputation, but most people don’t ignore such severe problems. What I see more often is patients with symptoms that they underestimate, problems that keep them from walking as much as they would like or participating in activities that they enjoy. They begin to think those symptoms are just part of getting older. I’d love to be able to tell all those people that there are options for treatment, options to make them feel better, options that are minimally invasive with very little downtime. It’s heartbreaking to

see patients who have suffered unnecessarily for years when we have such good treatment options now.

How is it treated?

Treatment options vary from walking and exercise programs to outpatient procedures we can do in the office to bypasses or other surgical procedures that require hospitalization. Thankfully, almost everyone qualifies for the nonhospital options first. In these procedures we make one poke hole into the artery and through it are able to take detailed X-ray to visualize the blood flow and blockages. Through that same small poke hole we can treat those blockages with techniques using balloons or devices that break down and remove the plaque.

What can be expected after treatment?

The beauty of improving circulation is that results are apparent very quickly. People can feel the difference with less pain, less fatigue, and some say they even have more energy. People don’t realize how suffering can mentally wear them down, almost cause depression. Getting relief is like lifting a weight off someone’s shoulders. They feel better, mentally and physically, and get back to enjoying things they had been avoiding. It’s really rewarding to help people like that.

Dr. Grant Fankhauser is double board-certified in vascular surgery and general surgery. He can be reached at CiC Flagstaff, 928-719-7400 or ciccenters.com.

Simulation replicates dementia for first responders

BY LIN SUE FLOOD Hospice of the Valley Director of Community Engagement

It’s not easy to rattle a firefighter. But that’s exactly what Hospice of the Valley did to a roomful of first responders who signed up for a training exercise in Queen Creek.

The eight-minute experience, called Dementia Moments, simulates the daily challenges facing people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

Valley/ Submitted)

“Brain changes caused by dementia make it difficult for people to understand, process and respond to the world around them,” said Kobie Chapman, a dementia educator with Hospice of the Valley. “We are out here with Queen Creek Fire and Medical to equip them with the tools they need to understand what that’s like. And we do it with this little blue bag.”

Firefighters unpacked the bags and

put on glasses with coated lenses to simulate cataracts and central vision loss. They donned gloves to mimic arthritis, neuropathy or sensory sensitivity, and wore headphones blaring loud and confusing noises, while trying to follow vague instructions to button a shirt, sort coins, write their names, and put a belt on a pair of trousers.

About three minutes in, the calm in the room was replaced by chaos and confu-

sion. A few laughed as they struggled to follow the prompts. Others were clearly frustrated and voiced it. “This is ridiculous,” whispered one. “What are we supposed to do with these clothes?” another asked his partner, who was just as lost.

“Sometimes when you go on calls, it’s hard because we’re not understanding what’s going on with people who have dementia,” engineer Katie Athey said. “This helps us get a better under-

standing.”

Fire Station No. 4 was grateful for this eye-opening experience that will help them approach crisis situations from the perspective of someone living with dementia.

To schedule a Dementia Moments presentation, contact Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus at 602-767-8300, education@dementiacampus.org or dementiacampus.org.

Queen Creek Fire and Medical Station No. 4 found the training to be valuable and enlightening. (Hospice of the Valley/Submitted)

Firefighters struggle to make sense of their surroundings just as people with dementia do. (Hospice of the

�� HOSPICE oftheVALLEY

Advanced illness care

Dementia Care and Education Campus

Hospice care

24/7 Nursing support

No one is turned away regardless of insurance or financial means

Hospice of the Valley Offers Caregiver Support

Memory Cafe

In-Person Support

Mondays 10-11 :1 S a.m.

Dementia Care and Education Campus

3811 N. 44th St., Phoenix

Offered at no charge

To register or for more information: (602) 767-8300 or MemoryCafe@hov.org

Care Partner Support

Mindful Connections

Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m.

Support Groups

Wednesdays from Noon-1 p.m.

Offered at no charge

Class and Zoom information: hov.org/support-groups

In-Person Classes

Open to the community

Thursdays from 10-11 a.m.

Offered at no charge

Different topics each week

(602) 767-8300 or info@dementiacampus.org

Questions? Call (602) 767-8300 or email info@dementiacampus.org

Benevilla is here to help

BY JAY LICKUS Benevilla Director of Marketing

Agroup of family caregivers meets at a local church in Sun City to share thoughts, feelings and experiences and cultivate a feeling of support, encouragement and inspiration from each other.

On Tuesdays, this group of caregivers, neighbors and friends comes together, not because it must but because it wants to.

This specific group is for those who care for loved ones with various stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia is life altering for the person living with the disease and family and friends touched by it.

On this day, 13 members, both male and female, mostly older than 50, are attending this support group because they are the primary caregiver of their husbands, wives or a parent. Within this informal and compassionate meet-

ing, many life experiences, difficulties and pieces of advice are shared among the tight-knit group.

Support groups help members feel less lonely and isolated in their circumstances. It also helps gives members a sense of empowerment and helps them feel more control over their situation. A support group often is a source of information about new treatment or therapeutic options. Support groups help reduce anxiety and the chances of clinical depression. The goal is to learn, feel more connected and provide a higher quality of life.

Benevilla knows taking care of someone can be difficult. In fact, studies show over 30% of caregivers will pass away before the person they are caring for.

“The stress of caregiving can take a significant toll on one’s health,” said Joanne Thomson, Benevilla president and chief executive officer.

“The reason Benevilla offers these free support groups is to provide people on this journey a reassuring circle

of friends who can relate to the daily ups and downs of caregiving.”

Benevilla offers seven support groups dealing with memory, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and grief and

bereavement that meet weekly or biweekly. For more information, call the Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. Department at 623-526-4404 or visit benevilla.org/ community-resources.

Taking care of someone can be difficult. Support groups offer friends who can relate to your daily ups and downs and professionals who offer information and assistance.

Benevilla support groups provide opportunities for caregivers to learn more ways to provide care for their loved one while receiving encouragement and support from other group members.

Benevilla offers a variety of free caregiver support groups for the community. (Benevilla/ Submitted)

Protecting your health during stressful times

BY JOHN HECKENLAIBLE Glendale Community College

Stress. We all get it, some of us more than others, but it’s how we handle it that matters. During times like these, our stress levels are even higher, through the roof for some.

What are the most efficient ways to deal with stress? The Fitness Center at Glendale Community College believes that exercise and nutrition can benefit you tremendously.

Exercise has been proven to increase endorphins, the hormones that give us sensations of happiness. Not only does exercise brighten our mood, but it can also improve our self-confidence as well as lower symptoms of anxiety and depression. Any type of exercise — cardiovascular, resistance or yoga/ relaxation — can help. Remember to start slowly when beginning any new exercise program.

Another technique to help reduce stress is to have a diet that includes

nutrient-rich foods such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean meats

or meat alternatives, and low-fat milk or milk alternatives. Foods that

are packed with vitamins and minerals will give you sufficient energy throughout the day. Eating healthier can also improve your immune system, reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure.

Combining exercise and nutrition will give you more of an advantage in combating high levels of stress. Take small steps by adding these tips to your everyday routine for a happier and healthier lifestyle. For more free tips and techniques, you can always follow GCC Fitness Centers’ Facebook page or subscribe to its YouTube channel.

Glendale Community College was founded in 1965 to serve the northwestern part of the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. The college has two campuses at 6000 W. Olive Avenue, Glendale, and 5727 W. Happy Valley Road, Phoenix. Combined enrollment is approximately 26,000 students annually.

Glendale Community College Fitness Center is open to the public. (Glendale Community College/Submitted)

Airman & Family Readiness Center is never the wrong place

BY AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER

Active-duty members and their spouses who are expecting a baby, or new mothers assigned to an Air Force installation, are encouraged to contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center to sign up for a Bundles for Babies/Kids Ride Safe class.

Parents can receive a free car seat and learn about proper installation in their vehicle, parenting skills and finances; meet other expectant parents; and receive a bundle of supplies. That includes a large, canvas tote bag with AFAS logo, thermal receiving blanket, hooded towel and washcloth, white knit crib sheet, printed knit crib sheet, three-pack sleep-n-play, five-pack onesies, two pairs of booties, two bibs and three burp cloths.

Classes are open to all ranks and are not limited to a first pregnancy.

The transition from singlehood to married life is tough, and marrying a military member can pose its own unique challenges. Heart Link is a program designed to familiarize civilian

spouses with the military and alleviate some of these issues.

From military protocol to traditions and lingo, Heart Link teaches civilian spouses what their military counter-

parts deal with daily. Spouses are introduced to the military community. They have an important role to play: keeping up the home front while their spouses are deployed and being a source of support for the airmen.

Heart Link, which is geared toward newlyweds, is designed to help connect military members with their spouses. By integrating spouses into the military, it helps to enhance mission readiness. Participants learn about military protocol and military and Air Force traditions including the role of coining and the Air Force song. Learning these things helps them understand military culture.

Military Family Life Consultants (MFLC) provides short-term, nonmedical counseling to service members and their families. MFLCs augment existing military support programs worldwide. Through the MFLC Program, li-

censed clinical providers assist service members and their families with issues they may face through the cycle of deployment — from leaving their loved ones and possibly living and working in harm’s way to reintegrating with their community and family.

The MFLC program provides support for a range of individual and family issues. Psychoeducational presentations on reunion/reintegration, stress/ coping, grief/loss and deployment are provided to commands, Family Readiness Groups, Soldier Readiness Processing and other requested locations. MFLC support is also provided to the Child and Youth Program and specifically for the summer DoDEA/CYP summer enrichment program.

Support for these issues empowers individuals during the problem-solving process, increases individual and family competency and confidence in handling the stressors of military life, and ensures that issues do not impair operational readiness.

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is designed to provide support to military family members with special needs. EFMP services include a variety of personnel, medical and family support functions. The Exceptional Family Member Program-Family Support (EFMP-FS) is a community support function provided by the Airman & Family Readiness Center that includes, but is not limited to, on- and off-base information and referral, parent training, support group, relocation assistance, financial management and school information.

For more information, call 623-8566550 or email 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil, or visit 7282 N. 137th Avenue, Building 1113, Luke AFB, AZ 85309.

Bundles for Babies/Kids Ride Safe class offers a free car seat so parents can learn about proper installation. (Airman & Family Readiness Center/Submitted)

Active living excites all at The Palazzo

BY THE PALAZZO SENIOR LIVING

Picture yourself stepping into a posh, luxurious resort complete with smiling faces, ample amenities and eye-catching, Tuscan-style architecture. This is precisely what you’ll find at The Palazzo Senior Living, a continuing care community offering independent and assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing.

The Palazzo welcomes residents as young as 55 and can accommodate couples who may have differing care needs, allowing you and your partner to live together in the same community while each receiving the assistance you need.

While the quality of care provided is superior, so too are the amenities, from a full-service salon, daily happy hour opportunities, a temperature-controlled wine cellar and 24-hour concierge services to chances to enjoy game nights, a heated pool and spa, and a gift shop. Other notable activities include water aerobics and exercise classes, live mu-

sical performances and other live entertainment, plus educational lectures and seminars. Residents of The Palazzo gain access to a revolving lineup of interactive and immersive programs and classes that foster community and encourage physical and mental fitness. Affordable, centrally located and ultra-modern, The Palazzo not only meets but exceeds expectations. Come see for yourself why so many are choosing to spend the best years of their lives at The Palazzo.

Physical exercise is an integral component of the extensive activity programming at The Palazzo. (The Palazzo/Submitted)

Medication management matters

BY AREA AGENCY ON AGING

Discussions about medication management are usually between an older adult, their doctor and pharmacist, or maybe a nurse who helps prepare a mediset.

When it comes to making changes to medications, understanding how they interact or what side effects there may be, these professionals are the experts. However, older adults have much more control over safe medication practices than they think.

Supported by a grant from the Arizona Healthcare Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the Area Agency

on Aging, as a part of its licensed behavioral health program, ElderVention, promotes safe storage and disposal of medications through its RxMatters program.

“Storing medications properly so the wrong person doesn’t have access to them and properly disposing of medications no longer needed is just as important as taking the right medications,” said Heidi Donniaquo, Area Agency director of behavioral health.

To help, the agency has tools and resources that community members can access. These include special

bags that lock and keep medications secure; medication disposable envelopes that can be mailed in to be destroyed; and a list of local drop boxes where old, expired medications can be discarded.

Agency staff are also available to provide educational presentations in the community and a review of current medications with a pharmacist consultation can be offered through the HomeMeds program.

For more information, contact Heidi Donniaquo, director of behavioral health, at heidi.donniaquo@aaaphx. org or 602-241-4724.

Diabetes awareness saves lives and limbs

BY COMPREHENSIVE INTERVENTIONAL CARE

Living with diabetes can be scary. One of the biggest fears is the threat of losing a leg. Diabetes is responsible for someone losing a limb every three minutes in the United States.

“There is no reason for so many diabetics to suffer an amputation,” said Dr. Joel Rainwater, chief medical officer of CiC. “Medical studies prove that up to 85% of diabetes-related amputations can be prevented.”

Diabetes is linked to two conditions that increase the risk of amputation: peripheral artery disease (PAD), sometimes referred to as poor circulation, and diabetic neuropathy.

“When people hear neuropathy or poor circulation, they recognize the terms and think they know about it,” said Dr. Kerry Zang, CiC Foot & Ankle’s podiatric medical director.

“But what they don’t understand is how serious these conditions are and that they are what leads to amputation.”

PAD occurs when a buildup of plaque limits blood flow.

“Blood brings oxygen and nutrients to your feet, which they need to stay healthy,” Zang explained.

“When your feet aren’t getting an ade-

quate supply, they start sending signals.”

Those signals include pain, tingling, numbness, cramping, or a sore that never gets better. A nonhealing wound is one of the most concerning issues, leading to possible amputation.

Living with diabetes puts you at increased risk.

“High blood sugar and inflammation related to diabetes attacks your blood vessels and causes them to block with plaque,” Rainwater said.

When this happens, your feet may feel cold, your legs may cramp during even a short walk, and a cut or blister just won’t heal.

If the signs are overlooked, or they are not diagnosed properly, they will continue to progress.

“This serious condition must be identified by diabetic caregivers, because minimally invasive treatment can be lifesaving,” Rainwater said. “If you get an amputation because you have PAD, your life expectancy is worse than if you had breast cancer or lymphoma. PAD is no joke.”

Early recognition and proper attention matter. “Without treatment, it will just get worse,” Zang said. “When you identify it and treat it, it’s possible to reverse it.”

Lifestyle changes, medication and minimally invasive procedures can

help prevent PAD from progressing to dangerous consequences.

“Fortunately, this is something that we can fix,” Rainwater said.

Using tiny tools and real-time imaging, endovascular specialists like Rainwater are able to go into the bloodstream to access the blocked arteries, clear plaque away and restore normal blood flow. This reestablishes the oxygen and nutrient supply so healing can begin.

Patients can resume everyday living with almost no downtime and no overnight hospital stay. Medicare and most insurance plans cover the treatment.

Knowing why diabetes puts you at risk, recognizing the symptoms and taking action helps you protect yourself. Diagnosing and treating PAD can mean the difference between saving or losing a limb and, in some cases, saving a life.

Heidi Donniaquo, LCSW, is Area Agency on Aging’s director of behavioral health. (Area Agency on Aging/Submitted)

Knowing why diabetes puts you at risk, recognizing the symptoms and taking action helps you protect yourself. (Stock image)

Help for Chronic Foot Pain

Chronic foot or ankle pain interferes with active lifestyles, limiting mobility and independence. It makes even the most basic activities, like going to the market or walking the dog difficult. “I hate to hear that foot pain is keeping someone from their everyday activities,” says Dr. Kerry Zang of CiC Foot & Ankle. “It doesn’t matter if you are suffering from arthritis, an old injury, plantar fasciitis, really any type of foot pain, there are new therapies to help repair and restore tissue, ligaments and joints.”

Until recently, anti-inflammatory medication and steroid injections, like cortisone offered the best chance for relief. But, these options just reduced the symptoms. They did nothing to treat the problem actually causing the pain. “While cortisone stops the swelling and pain, it can also interfere with the healing process and further degeneration can occur,” explains Zang.

“Now, instead of just making the symptoms go away, we can deal with the underlying problem that is causing the pain. With regenerative medicine, we can help the body initiate its own healing response,” says Zang.

This form of treatment stimulates the body’s own natural healing process to repair chronically damaged tissue. “If a degenerative process has started, sometimes the body needs a little boost to encourage the regenerative process.” says Zang. “Regenerative medicine does that.”

“Don’t wait to get help. Delaying care can put you at risk for further damage,” says Zang. “However, if you have put off treatment, it’s not too late. Medicine is constantly changing, and you should never lose hope.”

Dr. Kerry Zang, DPM can be reached at CiC Foot & Ankle, 602-954-0777.

Pain, Burning, Numbness, Cramping

Your feet are crying out for help! It’s time to listen.

Does foot pain keep you from your favorite activities?

Do you have pain in the ball of your foot, heel or ankle?

Do you have uncomfortable aching, fatigue, cramping in your feet or calves when walking?

Is your neuropathy treatment not working?

Do your feet hurt when at rest?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions it’s time to call for HELP!

tar The Glendale

The Glendale Star publishes on Thursday. The weekly calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue. Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the Star’s coverage area, which is in the city of Glendale.

Weekly calendar items print on a space-available basis. The only way to guarantee that an item will print is to purchase an advertisement.

Submissions must reach our o ce by 4 p.m. Thursday to be considered for the following Thursday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, christina@timeslocalmedia.com.

The Open Mic WEDNESDAYS

Stir Crazy Comedy Club hosts its weekly open mic night. Those interested are likely to see new talent as well as seasoned comedians just looking to work on new material. Think you have what it takes to take the stage and make the audience laugh? Now is your chance. There are 10 signup spots that will become available online at noon on Monday.

Stir Crazy Comedy Club, Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Suite E206, Glendale, visit website for ticket prices and times, stircrazycomedyclub. com

Socrates Cafe:

Paws to Read WEDNESDAYS

Paws to Read is o ering kids the opportunity to meet Harper, Maddie and Richie to help relieve stress and spend time with animals. These three dogs are always excited to interact with children and listen to whatever stories are being told.

Heroes Regional Park Library, Yucca Room, 6075 N. 83rd Avenue, Glendale, 1 to 2 p.m., glendaleazlibrary.com

A Virtual Philosophical Discussion Group

JAN. 19

Come together with other aspiring philosophers and discuss the works of the old greats of philosophy over Zoom. Find people with di erent backgrounds and experiences to help broaden mental horizons. Register with your email address for the link.

Foothills Library, 19055 N. 57th Avenue, Glendale, 10 a.m. to noon., free, glendaleazlibrary. com

Movies by Moonlight:

“Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie”

JAN. 20

Watch a movie based on the classic children’s book series “Captain Underpants” out in the winter moonlight at Murphy Park. All movies in the park will have food trucks and fun activities to participate in. Rosa Lane Park, 5003 W. Marlette Avenue, Glendale, 5 to 9 p.m., glendaleaz.com

Sandra Bassett’s Motown Experience

JAN. 22

Join Sandra Bassett and her band as she introduces her unique flare to her jazz and Motown performances. Considered one of the great voices of the Motown genre, Sandra and her players are known for the songs powerhouse vocals and smooth range of sounds with background vocals. Westside Blues and Jazz Club, 17045 N. 59th Avenue, Suite 104, Glendale, visit website for ticket prices and times, westsideblues.com

Big Daddy and the Dynamites featuring Betty Jo Vochon

JAN. 26

The Arizona Blues Hall of Fame nominee and statewide music legends come together at the Westside for an unforgettable evening of rocking, percussion and smooth vocals. Betty Jo Vochon comes in with her sweet and grandiose voice to add to the musical flavor, as jazz legends come together to perform for an evening on the town.

Westside Blues and Jazz Club, 17045 N. 59th Avenue, Suite 104, Glendale, visit website for ticket prices and times, westsideblues.com

Carin Leon

JAN. 21

Join famous mexican singer Carin Leon at the Desert Diamond arena, and hear his biggest Spanish-language hits live and in person. Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale, 8 p.m., check website for ticket prices, desertdiamondarena. com

Songs in Progress Virtual Workshop

JAN. 21

Regardless of how experienced a writer is, everyone needs to fine tune their work at some point. Get help with songwriting and hear the finished and unfinished music of others in the community, working together with a pro songwriting coach and other musicians passionate about the craft. Held via Zoom, 1 to 4 p.m., free, 623-930-3573, glendaleazlibrary.com

Stir Crazy Comedy All-Stars

JAN. 26

Stir Crazy’s very best have come together all at once to deliver a night of the best comedy stand-up the club can handle. Join storyteller Valerie Roberts, award-winning director Brian Kohatsu, hillbilly comedian Kristofer Royer Junior and absurdist comic Eric Sobczak as they all bring their unique personalities and experiences to the stage.

Stir Crazy Comedy Club, Westgate Entertainment District, 6751 N. Sunset Boulevard, Suite E206, Glendale, visit website for ticket prices and times, stircrazycomedyclub. com

26th Annual Arizona Songwriters Gathering JAN. 28

Join the great and varied songwriters of Arizona as they gather together and share the music that has kept them going through good times and bad. Listen to performances from talented artists and get valuable feedback on your own work.

Glendale Public Library, 5959 W. Brown Street, Glendale, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., free, azsongwriters.org

Piano gift hits high note for those with dementia

BY LIN SUE FLOOD Hospice of the Valley Director of Engagement

When Steve Harnden brought home a beautiful ebony baby grand, he envisioned his wife learning to play an instrument she had always loved. Monica was thrilled. The piano even had a “player piano” feature so it could play tunes by itself.

Over the next year and a half, Monica took lessons and mastered a few songs. She enjoyed filling their Glendale home with music until she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. The optimistic former nurse joined an aggressive drug trial, fully aware that she would not benefit, but hoping it might save lives in the future. She fought for 26 months, living long enough to see her son get married.

In the last weeks of her life, Monica confessed to Steve that she never wanted him to get rid of the piano. But he felt strongly that it should continue

to make music and bring joy to people. After talking it through, Steve suggested donating it to Hospice of the Valley. The nonprofit was caring for Monica through this vulnerable time and providing emotional support to him too.

“Our care team was outstanding,” he recalled. “Actually, they were angels. Hospice of the Valley was our source of strength during those last few weeks.”

Monica smiled and agreed there was no better place for her piano.

As she grew weaker, the piano lid was lowered and lovely framed family photos were arranged on top for her to enjoy. Steve would launch the player piano feature with his iPad and they would sit together as the music swirled around them.

It took several years after Monica’s

passing before Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus opened in Phoenix and could accept the generous donation, but Monica’s piano was finally moved into its new home. It now sits in a cozy corner of the dining area of the Assisted Living

at The Campus.

Because music has a magical effect on people living with dementia, members of the Adult Day Club are treated to impromptu performances — whether it’s listening to holiday tunes and

Steven Page is embracing the Barenaked Ladies catalog

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

Glendale Star Executive Editor

Former Barenaked Ladies singer Steven Page knows how to take care of his fans.

Since the start of the pandemic, Page has performed more than 90 “Live from Home” livestream shows with different sets each time.

“I owe it to them to play surprising stuff every time,” Page said via Zoom.

“So, I’ve done every song I’ve ever written — and maybe songs I was embarrassed by — at least once now over the course of this. When you look back on diary entries you made when you were a teenager, you

can’t help but be a little bit embarrassed about that. My songs are essentially that.

“In the livestreams, I’ve been playing Barenaked Ladies songs I didn’t write or sing, like ‘Pinch Me.’ It’s been fun. It’s not the kind of thing I would do every day at the in-person shows, but it allowed me to have a new relationship with all of the Barenaked Ladies material as well as my solo stuff. I’m feeling a lot less precious about it.”

BNL singer Ed Robertson lends his vocals to “Pinch Me.”

Page will perform BNL and solo songs during a gig at the Musical Instrument Museum on Sunday, Jan. 22. He’ll be joined by Craig Northey

from The Odds on guitar and Kevin Fox on cello.

“We’ve been doing it in this format for, I’d say, almost seven years now,” Page said. “And we play everything from the first Barenaked Ladies album all the way to the most recent record — and we have so much fun doing it. I think the audience gets that as well. We just really enjoy being around each other, traveling with each other and playing with each other.”

Page said he constantly reminds himself how lucky he is to still be playing music as post-pandemic competition is fierce.

“It’s hard out there,” Page said.

Members of the Dementia Campus Adult Day Club often gather around the piano to enjoy music therapy. (Hospice of the Valley/Submitted)

Steven Page’s trio will perform at The Troubadour on Thursday, Jan. 19. (Robert George /Contributor)

LADIES FROM PAGE 22

“Everybody in the world is out on the road right now. So, you’re competing with your peers everywhere you go, which is a strange feeling.”

Sometimes, it just comes down to compromise.

“Recently, we did a show in a venue directly next door to a venue (in St. Louis) where Guster was playing,” Page said.

“We have fans in common and that seemed very unfair. So, we decided we would trade encores. So, we ran across the alley, and they played for our audience and we played a song for their audience. Trying to coordinate the timing was a little awkward, but we just texted as we shuffled through the shows.”

Page is touring in support of his latest album, “Excelsior,” his first solo record since 2018. The collection’s 11 tracks were composed and produced entirely by Page, who co-founded Barenaked Ladies before departing on a solo career in 2009.

The lion’s share of “Excelsior” was

“workshopped” on the “Live from Home” virtual concert series Page has been conducting via Zoom since 2020 from his home near Syracuse, New York.

“I kept thinking I could make this thing happen by traveling up to Canada

PIANO FROM PAGE 22

favorite songs on the player piano or enjoying live music, compliments of campus staff, residents and visitors who can’t resist tickling the ivories.

Recently, Steve felt ready to visit Monica’s piano himself. He ran his hand over the small, gold-engraved seal bearing his wife’s name. Then he sat, with eyes closed, as a young Hospice of the Valley volunteer gave him a private concert, playing a gorgeous arrangement of Chopin’s “Nocturne in B-flat Minor.” As he applauded, a look of pure delight lit up his face.

“I know Monica is smiling to see her piano in its new home,” Steve said softly. “I don’t feel any sadness — just joy. This is where it belongs so it can continue to make a difference. It’s really good to see it here.”

Hospice of the Valley’s innovative Dementia Care and Education Campus serves people living with all types of dementia from early to advanced stages. To learn more, visit dementiacampus.org.

Former Barenaked Ladies singer Steven Page is touring in support of his latest album, “Excelsior.” (David Bergman/Contributor)

Steven Page

WHEN: 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22

WHERE: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix

COST: Tickets start at $38.50

INFO: 480-478-6000, mim.org

and recording it, which I couldn’t do,” he said about the pandemic.

“So, I ended up just doing almost all that myself, apart from some of the drums and the strings that Kevin Fox played. I’ve never really done a record like that where it’s all me. It feels very exposed, and it’s the first album I’ve done where they’re all sole compositions, meaning I haven’t co-written with anybody else. I was proud of it at the very end of it, but I was very nervous about it the whole time making it.”

Page’s songs are personal and thus sometimes difficult to write and perform.

“I’ve been put in a position — partially by me — where I had to be honest about things like my mental health struggles,” he said. “I’ve been doing public speaking about it and writing songs about it for years. But when I was younger, I was writing songs about it, and I think being slightly coy about the whole thing.

“But then I could no longer afford to be coy about it. I realized I was getting such feedback from people about how helpful or liberating or comforting it was for them (fans) to hear somebody else sharing similar experiences and similar struggles. And after doing that, I got less afraid of being honest about the emotional journey.”

His music and lyrics have impacted fans since the early days. Case in point: the BNL song “Brian Wilson, which Page calls “one of the earliest songs I ever wrote when I was about 19.”

“I wasn’t diagnosed with anything then,” he said about his mental health state. “It’s a real gift to the middle-aged Steven to kind of see what young Steven was willing to explore. At the end of the day, that was a song about the power of music.”

Songs like “Brian Wilson” are comforting and make listeners feel like they’re not so alone, he said.

“With mental health struggles, you feel like you’re the only person who feels that way,” he said.

“Even if you rationally know you’re not in that moment, there’s a feeling of loneliness and isolation and music can create companionship that doesn’t pander.”

Recently, Page opened for The Who on the East Coast leg of the classic rock band’s jaunt. Most of the set featured familiar Barenaked Ladies songs, but fans will hear more from “Excelsior” at the MIM.

“We had about 40 minutes in front of 20,000 people,” he recalled. “I don’t need to go out there and play them my new stuff. I think I needed to go out there and remind them who I am in case they didn’t recognize it. Now, we can settle into playing the hits plus digging into the back catalog and learning some of the new stuff and just feeling like it’s a little bit more freeform.”

Like The Troubadour or the Village Theater at Cherry Hill in Canton, Michigan, Page is focused on playing venues that are serious about music. They tend to work best, he said.

“I mean, we can play anywhere,” he is quick to add.

“I’m happy to play anywhere people want to come to see us. I’m not finicky about that anymore. If it happens to be a black box or a rock ’n’ roll bar, that’s fine. I do want the audience to be comfortable. Honestly, my audience is not as young as we once were.

“The romance of standing in the back all night wears off pretty quickly. I spent 30 years of my life in those rooms. I’m comfortable in them, but I’m not that nostalgic about it. I want everybody to feel like they have a comfortable place to enjoy the show. If the venue is a little bit stuffy, we always say people will remember, from seeing me 30 years ago, that that spirit of blowing up the stuffiness will always be there.”

Lin Sue Flood is community engagement director for Hospice of the Valley. For more information, email info@hov.org or visit hov.org.

When a handout becomes a hand up

Where do you want to go today? Microsoft uses that slogan to convince you that you can head in any direction you please with their software. But Earl Nightingale, one of the great motivational speakers, said it better. “Imagine that you are the captain of a great ocean-going vessel,” he suggests. “Before even leaving the harbor, you lay out plans for your voyage. Using maps, choose a destination, then employ your navigational skills to arrive safely.”

“Without a chosen destination and a map to help you arrive,” he continues, “you are akin to a ship without a rudder. If you leave the harbor, you’ll probably be a derelict on some deserted beach.” In other words, if you don’t know where you’re going, you’re bound to get there.

Epictetus wrote these wise questions we must ask ourselves long ago. “Who exactly do you want to be? What kind of person do you want to be? What are your ideals? Whom do you admire? What are their special traits that you would make your own? It’s time to stop being vague. If you wish to be extraordinary and wise, then you should explicitly identify the kind of person you aspire to become.”

Let’s improve our life journey today with some wisdom. On your journey to where you would like to go, you will be offered many “handouts” from people who want to take you to where they want to go. They have a plan for your life. My caution for today is to choose wisely the hands you hold. There are helping hands and harmful hands, at least for where you desire to go. Be wary of hands with “handouts” want-

CHURCH COMMUNITY CONNECTION

ing to pull you away from where you want to go.

Here are some life-changing thoughts about hands I found on the internet.

“A basketball in my hands is worth about $19. A basketball in Michael Jordan’s hands was worth about $33 million. It depends on whose hands it’s in. A football in my hands is worth about $16. A football in Tom Brady’s hands is worth $29 million. It depends on whose hands it’s in. A tennis racket is useless in my hands. A tennis racket in Serena Williams’ hands is a Wimbledon Championship. It depends on whose hands it’s in.

A rod in my hands will keep away wild animals. A rod in Moses’ hands will part a mighty sea. It depends on whose hands it’s in. A slingshot in my hands is a kid’s toy. A slingshot in David’s hand is a mighty weapon. It depends on whose hands it’s in. Two fish and five loaves of bread in my hands

are a couple of fish sandwiches. Two fish and five loaves of bread in the hands of Jesus will feed thousands. It depends on whose hands it’s in. Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse. Nails in Jesus Christ’s hands have salvation for the entire world. It depends on whose hands it’s in.” Get the message?

These days many people and things are holding their hands out to us. We often give them our hand because we are impatient or feel impotent about what is happening in today’s world. So many are in a crisis or so lost that they will grab onto any hand. But, in the long term, a human-based “handout” creating co-dependence is not generally a “hand up,” no matter the reason.

After 49 years of walking with the Lord, I have seen the results of making decisions and acting without God’s guidance. I’ve also seen the results when I have allowed God’s word to guide me. Acting without holding God’s hand means I’m not holding any hand at all. It could also mean that I’m holding someone or something else’s hand, leading me away from where I want to go. Either way, the results are the same, generally not good, and certainly not God’s best for me. I’ve also

learned that when I don’t get God’s best, it negatively affects my family, friends and legacy.

Psalm 16 reflects David’s conflict and the resolution about whose hands to hold. “Keep me safe, O God. I’ve run for dear life to you. My choice is you, God, first and only. And now I find I’m your choice. The wise counsel God gives when I’m awake is confirmed by my sleeping heart. I’m happy from the inside out, and from the outside in, I’m firmly formed. Now you’ve got my feet on the life path, radiant from the shining of your face. I’ve been on the right path since you took my hand.”

Like David, when you put your concerns, worries, fears, hopes, dreams, family and relationships in God’s hands, you’re on the right path. Amid our confusion, a “handout” to God is a hand up to guidance and elevation.

Here’s my advice. It’s from an old song back when I was growing up. “Put your hand in the hand of the Man who stilled the water. Put your hand in the hand of the Man who calmed the sea. Take a look at yourself, and you will look at others differently. So, put your hand in the hand of the Man from Galilee.”

Remember, the life you desire depends on whose hand you are holding. Hmm, I think I heard that old song, “I want to hold your hand!”

Ed Delph is a noted author of 10 books, as well as a pastor, teacher, former business owner and speaker. He has traveled extensively, having been to more than 100 countries. He is president of NationStrategy, a nonprofit organization involved in uplifting and transforming communities worldwide. For more information, see nationstrategy.com. He may be contacted at nationstrategy@cs.com.

Pastor Ed Delph Glendale Star Columnist

GOD’S LOVE IS ETERNAL

16000 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City AZ 85351 Tel: 623-974-3611

IN-PERSON WORSHIP

SUNDAYS - 10 AM

Live-Streamed at www.scfaith.org

GriefShare® - Rev. Gloria

Mondays Jan. 16 thru Feb. 20 10am in Council Room

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Thursday January 19 at 6pm

PCUSA Disaster Relief & Bakhmut Brad Catered dinner $12, cut-off 1/16 12pm

“An inclusive, welcoming, caring community, serving Jesus Christ”

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8340 W. Northern Ave. Glendale, AZ 85305

Information 623.334.9482

Dr. Ron G. Rockwell – Pastor

Sunday: 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. Nursery Provided

10935 W. Olive Ave. Peoria 85345 Phone (623) 972-8479 office@westolive.com www.westolive.com Everyone Is

Sunday Bible Study 9 a.m. Worship 10 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Classes for all ages - 7:00

Super Bowl Host Committee hosts STEAM experience

BY JOE MCHUGH

Glendale Star Staff Writer

The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee recently partnered with Education Forward and Freeport-McMoRan to put on 100 Yards of Education — a STEM playbook for youth event at State Farm Stadium. The interactive experience held on Jan. 11 invited over 1,000 middle school kids to learn about the importance of education, through interactive booths and a keynote speech from Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald.

“There’s no better way to be able to spring springboards your way to success by educating yourself,” Fitzgerald said. “You have so many opportunities ahead of you. Essentially have control of your future, with how much you’re able to put in and learn and make yourself indispensable in the world with the knowledge that you’re able to acquire.”

Benefiting the STEAM community (science, technology, engineering, arts and math), this event was created to inspire young children to continue their respective educations. Jay Parry, presi-

dent and CEO of the Super Bowl Host Committee; Tracy Bame, president and director of community development for Freeport-McMoRan; and Rich Nickel, president and CEO of Education For-

ward, also served as keynote speakers to offer thoughts on the importance of continuing education as a way for a brighter future.

“I encourage you to have fun, make

the best of this day, and go back to school and your families thinking about how a STEM career might be in your future,” Nickel said.

“Today’s event is really about helping you understand we can do in the future and what path you need to pursue in order to achieve those opportunities,” Bame said. “So, we encourage you to have fun today and really think about what you want to do for yourself in the future.”

After hearing these words, the kids took to the park plaza outside the stadium, to which they were greeted with a plethora of interactive booths.

They were able to drive robots, see demonstrations of physics and other aspects of science, and many other fun ways to engage the kids about STEM.

For Fitzgerald, that is what matters most.

“So, I think it’s important to be able to impart that information to these young people and let them know that they’re cared and that people that are around them that really want to see them succeed at a high level,” he said.

Girl Scouts unveil 2023 cookie season dates

GLENDALE STAR STAFF

Each year, Girl Scouts in Arizona participate in the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world: the Girl Scout Cookie Program. This year, the Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council season is longer — seven weeks — from Monday, Jan. 16, to Sunday, March 5.

“As in years past, all the Girl Scout Cookies’ proceeds stay local to help girls fund impactful projects to benefit the community; embark on amazing girl-led troop adventures; provide programs in STEM, the outdoors, life skills and entrepreneurship; maintain and improve four camp properties; and

provide financial assistance that keeps Girl Scouting available and affordable for all girls,” said Mary Mitchell, co-CEO of Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council.

More than 7,000 girls grades K-12 in over 90 communities across Central and Northern Arizona will take part in the 2023 Girl Scout Cookie Season.

“We extended our cookie season by one week to support girls interested in selling our new, limited-edition raspberry rally cookie, as Feb. 27 is the earliest date the flavor will be available for shipping from our baker. Now our community has more time to support girls and stock up on their favorite

cookie flavors,” said Christina Spicer, the council’s co-CEO.

To add to the anticipation of the 2023 Girl Scout Cookie Season, Girl Scouts is excited to welcome Planet Oatmilk as a national sponsor of the Girl Scout Cookie Program. Planet Oat Oatmilk is free from dairy, gluten, soy and peanuts, and pairs with the entire cookie lineup. Girl Scouts champion millions of girls as they learn, grow and thrive through adventure, and Planet Oat is proud to support these efforts as a national sponsor of the Girl Scout Cookie Program.

In addition to the extended sale dates

SEE COOKIES PAGE 30 Samoas.

100 Yards of Education, a STEM playbook for youth event held at State Farm Stadium, hosted over 1,000 middle school kids to learn about the importance of education. (Darby Vance/Contributor)

and the national partnership, here is a snapshot of everything as it relates to the 2023 cookie season across Central and Northern Arizona, including the new digital-only cookie, the return of the Bring Home the Cookies 5K, the Devin Booker Girl Scout Bus and Cookie CEO Fast Pitch.

Girl Scouts-Arizona CactusPine Council cookie lineup

Visit girlscoutsaz.org/cookiefinder and use the Girl Scout Cookie Finder to find a cookie booth near you. Enter a ZIP code and choose from a list of locations nearby.

• Adventurefuls: Brownie-inspired cookie with caramel-flavored crème and a hint of sea salt. $5

• Lemon-ups: Crispy lemon cookies baked with inspiring messages. $5

• Thin mints: Mint flavored with a delicious chocolaty coating. Vegan. $5

• Tagalongs: Layers of peanut butter with a rich, chocolaty coating. $5

• Samoas: Caramel and toasted coconut-covered cookies. $5

• Trefoils: Iconic and delicious shortbread cookies. $5

• Do-si-dos: Crisp and crunchy oatmeal outside and creamy peanut butter inside. $5

• Girl Scout s’mores: Crunchy graham sandwich cookies with creamy chocolate and marshmallowy filling.

$6

• Toffee-tastics: Buttery (and gluten-free) cookies with sweet, crunchy

golden toffee bits. $6

• New raspberry rally: Thin, crispy cookie infused with raspberry flavor and dipped in a delicious chocolaty coating. $5 (will be available through digital sales only, and only from Feb. 27 to Mar. 5, while supplies last)

The council and Girl Scouts of the USA’s new raspberry rally is a thin, crispy cookie infused with raspberry flavor and dipped in a chocolate coating. This cookie will only be sold online from Monday, Feb. 27, to Sunday, March 5, while supplies last.

Digital cookie

Through the Digital Cookie platform, which Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council has utilized since 2016 in addition to traditional booths, girls build a custom website so they can invite friends and family to purchase cookies, with the option of having cookies delivered in person or shipped directly to their home. Girls can also use the Digital Cookie Mobile App to accept credit card payments on the go from customers. Digital cookie also introduces lessons about online marketing, application use and eCommerce to Girl Scouts, through building their own cookie website and managing their virtual sales.

New financial literacy badges

Girl Scouts’ newly updated financial literacy badges offer entrepreneurial playbooks for every age level. From the Cookie Goal Setter badge earned as a Daisy to the Entrepreneur Accelerator for girls in high school, the Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches girls

financial literacy, planning, budgeting, teamwork, innovative thinking and confident decision making.

Local Cookie CEO Fast Pitch and new kicko block party: Tuesday, Jan. 21

Valley CEOs are preparing Girl Scout entrepreneurs for a successful cookie season at the Cookie CEO Fast Pitch on Jan. 21. During this event, local CEOs/executives will guide Girl Scout Juniors, Seniors and Ambassadors and help sharpen their communication skills, sales pitches, and give them sound business advice and tips to unleash their inner CEO.

For the first time, after the Cookie CEO Fast Pitch, Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council join State Forty Eight for a block party at its Chandler location at 3245 N. Arizona Avenue, Chandler. The free, public event is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and features Girl Scout cookie booths as well as State Forty Eight products and deals, local entrepreneurs, food trucks and a DJ.

Local Girl Scout Cookie Night, Devin Booker Bus and Patch Reveal with the Phoenix Suns: Wednesday, Jan. 22

On Jan. 22, hundreds of Girl Scouts will descend upon Footprint Center to collectively cheer on the Phoenix Suns in their showdown against the Memphis Grizzlies. Beyond that, as the game comes to a close, dozens of Girl Scouts will take over the plaza outside Footprint Center to sell cookies as well as showcase their new Girl Scout Devin Booker Bus on the plaza. This year, the local Girl Scouts have created a custom patch to commemorate the partnership,

which will also be unveiled during the event as well.

“The minibus, made possible by a Devin Booker Starting Five grant, is used to transport girls to and from educational and character-building activities and experiences. Due to vandalism and theft of its prior vehicle, GSACPC had no way to transport girls to programs and events. The lack of transportation often meant that girls would not have an opportunity to participate in activities,” Mitchell said.

Local Mountainside Fitness National Cookie Weekend: Saturday, Feb. 18, and Sunday, Feb. 19

For the first time, Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council is teaming up with Mountainside Fitness. In addition to Girl Scouts boothing at several participating locations, after customers purchase cookies, they may take them inside to Mountainside’s MCafe and use them to make a shake.

Local: Bring Home the Cookies 5K Run/Walk: Saturday, Feb. 25

Join Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council and State Forty Eight Foundation, for the second Bring Home the Cookies 5K Run/Walk on Feb. 25 at Westgate in Glendale. The family-friendly event, open to Girl Scout families, competitive runners, walkers and the community at large,

To ee-tastics. Tagalongs.

will start and finish at Westgate and feature music, food and cookie booths. All registered participants will receive a Girl Scout goodie bag with a State Forty Eight branded 5K shirt, a package of Girl Scout Cookies and a medal.

To register for the 5K, visit girlscoutsaz.org/5k, and for more information on the local Girl Scout Cookie Season, visit girlscoutsaz.org.

“Bring Home the Cookies 5K is a community celebration of all our incredible girls and their dedication, innovation and creativity. Girl Scouts

are learning first-hand entrepreneurship and financial skills they will carry with them their entire life. We are honored to partner with State Forty Eight and State Forty Eight Foundation to celebrate Arizona’s entrepreneurs before the final week of cookie season,” Spicer said.

In addition to the race, the event will feature special appearances from local mascots. There will be a full-scale Runner’s Village, including more traditional vendors and cookie booths as well as local Girl Scout entrepreneurs, who will be exhibiting and selling their crafts and goods.

Moving Up Into Management

If you’d like to climb the ladder into management, you’ll have to properly position yourself for the move.

Supervisors are expected, first and foremost, to lead — so you’ll have to define yourself as someone who’s ready to help others succeed.

START OFFERING SOLUTIONS

Let’s face it, every workplace environment comes with its own unique set of challenges. What sets good managers apart from others is the ability to problem solve rather than sitting back and com-

plain. Those who get promoted are the ones who go further than simply identifying issues, instead offering solutions when a setback occurs. Whether it’s quality control, outside competition or communication breakdowns, the most effective managers are first and foremost looking for answers. The faster these problems can be overcome, the closer everyone will be to the success everyone is striving for. Identify issues, preferably before they become chronic, develop solutions and discuss it with company leaders. You’ll soon join them.

BUILD WORK RELATIONSHIPS

Candidacies for management are also strengthened by the ability to communicate and work with others. If your proposed solution won’t work, consider brainstorming with others to improve the idea. Help out with projects, even if they are outside of your immediate job description. Be a sounding board and offer advice when appropriate on workplace topics. Building positive professional relationships shows that you are collaborative and that you understand the broader spectrum of how the operation functions. They also show that you can be trusted. You’ll become a better leader, even if these relationships don’t immediately create a springboard with your current employer. They might open doors down the road.

DEVELOP SKILLS

Moving into a management role is more than supervising. You’ll also be expected to inhabit a larger leadership role, inspiring others and sharing a vision for future success. If you feel under-prepared for this shift, or simply want to better position yourself for a promotion, consider pursuing professional development training in motivating others, problem solving or performance evaluation.

Understandably, these skills may not have been an element of your previous jobs with the company — but they’ll be key to succeeding on the next level. Your company may already have training programs. Otherwise, seek them out online, in textbooks or through area universities or community colleges. And remember that this learning process is ongoing. Effective managers continue incorporating new ideas, strategies and leadership skills into their personal management style.

TALK ABOUT YOUR GOALS

Develop a timeline for your promotion. Sketching this out will help focus your work. At the same time, management may be looking for the next great leader on their staff, but they won’t necessarily understand your ambitions if you don’t voice them. Once you have a clear idea of what job you’re interested in and when, communicate those aspirations honestly and openly with the management team. That can happen through the course of a performance review, when asked about your career goals, or in conversations held in a more informal manner. But be forthright with your goals. If you’re a good candidate for future opening, they’ll remember these important discussions.

Supplemental Citation

SURROGATE’S COURT, CAYUGA COUNTY

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

By the Grace of God Free and Independent File No. 2022334

To: Denise Hall, 4426 West Willow Lane Glendale, Arizona 85310

A petition having been duly filed by Brenda Powers who is/are domiciled at 280 Sillis Road, Locke NY 13092

YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Cayuga County, at 152 Genesee Street, Auburn, New York, on January 23, 2023, at 9:30 o’clock in the sore noon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of Gerald Charles Bowen, aka Gerald C Bowen lately domiciled at admitting to probate a Will of Gerald Charles Bowen deceased, relating to real and personal property, and directing that: Letter testamentary issue to Brenda Powers

Dated, Attested and Sealed, December 19, 2022

HON. Jon E Budelmann, Surrogate

Myra A Madde

Deputy Chief Christina Herman

Charles Guttman

Name of Attorney

Guttman Law Office 411 N. Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York 14850 (607) 272-2102

lee@guttman-law.com

NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed you do not object to the relief requested. you have a right to have an attorney appear for you.

Published in the Glendale Star, Jan 5, 12, 19,

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION MIDVALE TELEPHONE EXCHANGE, INC.

P.O. BOX 7

2205 KEITHLEY CREEK RD MIDVALE, ID 83645 2023

Midvale Telephone Exchange, Inc. is the recipient of Federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at: (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.as cr.usda.gov/complaint filing cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632- 9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

1400 Independence Avenue, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

Fax: (202) 690-7442; or Email: program.intake@usda.gov

“USDA is an Equal Opportunity Provider, Employer and Lender”

“Employee Owned, Community Focused, Customer Centered” MTE Communications is an equal opportunity provider and employer Published in the Glendale Star, Jan 19, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION HAVE BEEN FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE ARIZONA CORPORATION COMMISSION FOR

I Name: The Legacy Institute, PLLC

II The address of the registered office is: 24654 N Lake Pleasant Pkwy #103-497, Peoria, AZ 85383 The name of the Statutory Agent is: Sharon A Bell

III Management of the Limited Liability Company is vested in a manager or managers. The names of each person who is a manager and each member who owns a twenty percent or greater interest in the capital or profits of the limited liability company are: MEMBER/ MANAGE RS/ORGANIZERS: Name and address for each. Kelsi

A. Rather, LPC, 24654 N Lake Pleasant Pkwy #103-497 Peoria, AZ 85383; Sharon A. Bell, PsyD, 24654 N Lake Pleasant Pkwy #103-497 Peoria, AZ 85383

Published in the Glendale Star, Jan 5, 12, 19, 2023

•

Employee Owned-Community Focused-Customer Centered

MTE Communications is an equal opportunity employer and provider

Published in the Glendale Star, Jan 19, 2023