Explorer, Aug. 18, 2021

EXPLORER The Voice of Marana, Oro Valley and Northwest Tucson

August 18, 2021

Volume 28 • Number 33

Home Sweet Home

Oct. 7, 2020

What to keep in mind when choosing solar and contractors | Special Section HEALTH & MEDICINE

INSIDE

County supervisors shoot down school mask mandate

Hot Picks

Events around town | Page 3

Town Talk

Tucson Local Media

(Left to right) Andy Cathey, Donny Cathey and Carly Timpf.

Welcome back students! | Page 6

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Photo by Gavin Dunham/HSSA

Cathey’s Sewing Drive Supports Humane Society Jeff Gardner Tucson Local Media

Sports & Rec

New golf tourney | Page 15 $

Christina Duran

M

ore than a hundred shelter animals awaiting adoption are now a little more comfortable — and stylish — thanks to a donation from Cathey’s Sewing & Vacuum to the Humane Society of Southern Arizona.

The donations are part of Cathey’s annual Christmas-In-July sewing event, where customers and staff create specialized items

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for local nonprofits. In addition, Cathey’s also raises funds for the selected nonprofit from raffles and events. This year, the Humane Society of Southern Arizona received 165 pet bandanas, 85 cat beds and $3,250.

“Every year we try to choose a different nonprofit, as locally oriented as possible, with a sewing challenge we can connect them to,” said owner Donny Cathey. “Often it’s not too difficult to come up with

something for a charity… Animals touch everyone’s lives, so to support a charity that helps house and support animals is always worthwhile.” The sewing takes place during Cathey’s Saturday classes, and culminates in awards given to the volunteers who are most artistic and go above-and-beyond. During the finale, attendees vote on their favorites and the best use of embroidery to decide the winners.

See SEWING, P8

or more than nine weeks Arizona has seen an exponential increase in COVID-19 cases and public health experts predict the surge would likely exceed cases and hospitalizations seen last summer 2020.

In his latest COVID-19 forecast updated Aug. 14, Dr. Joe Gerald, an epidemiologist with the UA Zuckerman School of Public Health, reported Arizona has a rate of transmission of 255 cases per 100,000 individuals per week as of Aug. 8 and would likely soon exceed the rates seen during the summer of 2020, of 409 cases per 100,000 residents.

“While I am hopeful we will not reach the levels seen in the winter of 2021, the experience of other states (e.g., Louisiana) combined with inaction of our local and state officials suggests this may be wishful thinking,” said Gerald.

“Another wave of cases and hospitalizations caused by the Delta variant is now certain; the only question remaining is just how big.”

See COVID, P4

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Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

EXPLORER The Explorer and Marana News is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout the Northwest Tucson. To find out where you can pick up a free copy of the Explorer and Marana News, go to www.TucsonLocalMedia.com

STAFF ADMINISTRATION Steve T. Strickbine, Publisher Michael Hiatt, Vice President Jaime Hood, General Manager jaime@tucsonlocalmedia.com Claudine Sowards, Accounting claudine@tucsonlocalmedia.com Sheryl Kocher, Receptionist sheryl@tucsonlocalmedia.com EDITORIAL Jim Nintzel, Executive Editor jimn@tucsonlocalmedia.com Jeff Gardner, Managing Editor jeff@tucsonlocalmedia.com Mike Truelsen, Web Editor mike@tucsonlocalmedia.com Christina Duran, Staff Reporter christinad@tucsonlocalmedia.com Alexandra Pere, Staff Reporter apere@tucsonlocalmedia.com PRODUCTION Courtney Oldham, Production Manager, tucsonproduction@timespublications.com Ryan Dyson Graphic Designer ryand@tucsonlocalmedia.com Emily Filener, Graphic Designer emilyf@tucsonlocalmedia.com CIRCULATION Alex Carrasco, Circulation alexc@tucsonlocalmedia.com ADVERTISING TLMSales@TucsonLocalMedia.com Kristin Chester, Account Executive kristin@tucsonlocalmedia.com Lisa Hopper, Account Executive lisa@tucsonlocalmedia.com Candace Murray, Account Executive candace@tucsonlocalmedia.com Tyler Vondrak, Account Executive tyler@tucsonlocalmedia.com NATIONAL ADVERTISING Zac Reynolds, Director of National Advertising Zac@TimesPublications.com EDITORIAL & AD CONTENT The Explorer and Marana News expresses its opinion in the editorial. Opinions expressed in guest commentaries, perspectives, cartoons or letters to the editor are those of the author. The content and claims of any advertisement are the sole responsibility of the advertiser. Tucson Local Media assumes no responsibility for the claims or content of any advertisement. Publisher has the right to edit for size or refuse any advertisement at his or her discretion.

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Copyright:The entire contents of Explorer/Marana News are CopyrightTimes Media Group . No portion may be reproduced in whole or part by any means without the express written permission of the Publisher,Tucson Local Media, 7225 N. Mona Lisa Rd., Ste. 125,Tucson, AZ 85741.

Hot Picks

Movies on the Lawn. The Town of Oro Valley is continuing their outdoor family screenings series at the Oro Valley Community & Recreation Center. The next screening on Saturday, Aug. 28 is a film adaptation of Jack London’s “The Call of the Wild.”

The movies take place on a large inflatable screen and attendees are welcome to bring chairs and blankets. This event does not require registration and is free to the public. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 28. 10555 N. La Canada Drive.

Drop in Paper Flower and Paper Mache Classes. God, imagine having the ability to make beautiful paper flowers.

You could just buy some paper and then be set on what to get people for their birthdays for the rest of their lives.

You could turn your home into a beautiful, everlasting arboretum. It just seems like such a sweet, useful skill. So, not to be dramatic, but this class with Luna’s Paper Designs could be the first day of the rest of your life. Pop in to make some colorful crepe paper flowers over at the Tucson Mall. 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21. Catalyst in the Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road #110. $10 for drop-in classes.

Super Small Works Show.

This month’s show at the Wilde Meyer Gallery feature works that are all on the small side, like a gorgeous 6 inch x 6 inch portrait of a dog by Connie R. Townsend, or a lovely 8 inch x 4 inch landscape by Debbie Carroll. This night is hosted by the gallery, Jane Hamilton Fine Art, and Sunset Interiors as part of the Sizzling Summer Night Series. Come enjoy the details of

Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

these pieces in person, while also enjoying refreshments and live entertainment by harpist Vanessa Myers. 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21. Wilde Meyer Gallery, 2890 E. Skyline Drive.

Trivia Night at Caps and Corks. Join Team Trivia of Tucson for a night full of fun facts and healthy competition.

Get ready to show what you know, or maybe find out how much you don’t know! You know the drill. Bring a team of the smartest people you know (we want diverse kinds of intelligence—like, bring your sports friend AND your history buff friend), grab a few drinks and mad dog the other teams to earn your way to the top. There are prizes for the winners! And you can sit either outside or inside. Plus, the host will pick up answers from your tables to limit movement throughout the building. 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 25.

Caps & Corks, 3830 W. River Road. Free to play.

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Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

COVID: Cases rising

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Continued from P1 Last winter, Arizona saw case rates as high as 915 cases per 100,000 residents, according to Gerald. With the surge in cases, Gerald warns of the strain of hospital capacity and staffing.

He reports an increase in hospital COVID-19 occupancy and said it will likely exceed 20% of all beds in the general ward and 25% of beds in the ICU for many weeks.

Gerald expects delays in elective procedures to occur and some medically necessary procedures to likely be postponed and rescheduled over the coming weeks to make room for critically ill COVID-19 patients. He noted hospitals should prepare for the surge to strain staffing in

critical care areas and lead to shortages. Further those seeking care, may find hospitals limiting care to the sickest patients.

“Even if you are vaccinated, the COVID-19 surge can impact your health should you become ill and require hospital care. In essence, care will become increasingly more rationed over the coming weeks with only the sickest of the sick being able to access critical care services,” Gerald predicted.

While the vaccination effort continues and Arizona has fully vaccinated almost half of the state’s population, “in the face of the Delta variant, this is wholly insufficient,” Gerald said.

He reports Arizona is experiencing more than 100 deaths per week and expects it would

increase in the coming weeks, almost certainly reaching 300 deaths per week by the end of August.

“At this point, only individual and community non-pharmacologic interventions like mask mandates, limiting gathering sizes, and targeted business mitigations can stave off another substantial surge,” advised Gerald.

However, the Arizona Legislature and Gov. Doug Ducey have limited the communities ability to respond to the pandemic. One recently passed law prohibits local jurisdictions from issuing any order “related to mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic that impacts private businesses, schools, churches or other private entities, including an order, rule, ordinance or regulation that man-

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POOL SAFETY

Golder Ranch Fire District is asking you to be informed about Pool Safety. A drowning can happen to anyone at any time but the only way to ensure that everyone has a safe experience in the water is to supervise children around and in the water. Here’s to a safe swim season!

• Never swim alone, always use the buddy system regardless of age.

• At parties, assign a designated “Water Watcher” whose responsibility is to monitor the number of people in the pool and be prepared for an emergency.

• The designated “Water Watcher” should not be engaged in conversation, eating, or drinking alcohol. They should have a phone available pool side to call 9-1-1 in the event of an

emergency.

• The “Water Watcher” should be an adult. They should take turns with other adults at the gathering in 20-30 minute intervals.

• Avoid “horse play” around the pool to prevent injuries.

• When it is time for everyone to get out of the pool, secure the pool area by ensuring that pool gates are closed, and that all swimmers are accounted for and out of the pool area.

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dates the use of face coverings, requires closing a business or imposes a curfew.”

Last Tuesday, the Pima County Board of Supervisors shot down several motions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the majority county supervisors believing the county would have no way of enforcing the proposed resolutions.

The board considered several resolutions, including reinstating an emergency proclamation for COVID-19, mandating vaccinations for county employees, instituting mask mandates for K-12 county schools, and mandating vaccinations for all healthcare workers in Pima County.

The board voted 3-2 against proclaiming an emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with Supervisors Matt Heinz and Adelita Grijalva in support of the emergency proclamation.

Heinz and Grijalva argued the proclamation would signal to county residents of the seriousness of the current state of the pandemic.

Over the past month Pima County’s level of transmission changed from moderate to high, with a rate of 120 cases per 100,000 individuals in the last seven days reported on Aug. 9, which has since increased to another 25 cases per 100,000 individuals as of Monday, according to data from the CDC.

“People will understand that we have a state of emergency and will take this more seriously and hopefully move to get vaccinated,” said Heinz at the meeting. “The county will have more ability to more quickly respond to the changing conditions on the ground on behalf of the health department to make the residents safer and to protect lives.”

While Supervisor Rex Scott agreed on the need for messaging for the community, he believed reinstating the emergency proclamation would be the incorrect message, as it has little practical effect, only allowing the chair of the board to rule by proclamation.

“I agree with Supervisor Heinz that messaging is important. I don’t think putting this emergency declaration, which only has one practical effect, back in place is the right message,” said Scott. “I think the right message is get vaccinated, so you do not die. Get vaccinated, so you do not infect other people around you.”

Chair Sharon Bronson and Supervisor Steve Christy both questioned the legality of instituting an emergency proclamation on COVID-19, given state law passed last month.

The board also voted 4-1 in support of a motion by Supervisor Scott that the board not require Pima County employees get vaccinated for

Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

COVID-19.

As the one dissenting vote, Heinz remarked, “Incredible, you people” before giving his vote no.

When challenged by Bronson on whether the county should fire county employees for not complying to a vaccination requirement, Heinz noted that as a doctor he is required to take his TB test every year or he would not be allowed to practice medicine.

Despite his belief in the effectiveness of vaccinations, Scott voted to not require county employees get their COVID-19 vaccinations, because of the inability to enforce the vaccine requirement.

“General Washington back in the days of Valley Forge required smallpox inoculation.

Many historians have said we might have won the Revolutionary War because he had the ability to do that. But what if the Continental Congress told General Washington he did not have the ability to do that?” asked Scott. “Well that’s the situation that we are in with the feckless, irresponsible, ignorant decision made by the legislature and Gov. Ducey and I do not want to put a vaccine mandate in place that is essentially toothless.”

Following the same arguments, the board voted 3-2 against instituting a mask mandate for K-12 schools in Pima County.

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Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

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TOWN TALK

Welcome back students, teachers and staff!

Kara Riley

Special to Tucson Local Media

F

or well over 30 years, the Oro Valley Police Department has had a long-standing tradition of having school resource officers in our schools. Although some of the curriculum and philosophy has changed over the years, the one thing that has always stayed constant is this community’s commitment to its children. OVPD has a robust SRO program and I want to take the opportunity to showcase this amazing program and the outstanding law en-

forcement professionals who serve your schools, youth, teachers and administrators.

OVPD has a triad approach when it comes to the SRO program: teacher, mentor and law enforcement officer.

Our officers go into the classrooms and teach about topics that are trending and challenging to our youth. In addition, teachers provide subjects for the SROs to teach, such as the effects of drugs, distracted driving and cyberbullying.

At times, our SROs are mentors for our children, assisting them through a

crisis in their lives like divorcing parents, loss of a loved one or simply how to make good choices in the face of peer pressure.

The final prong to the triad approach is the law enforcement portion.

OVPD is committed to keeping our youth safe from any potential threats and teaching our kids what to do during dangerous situations.

The leadership at OVPD encourages all our officers to think outside the box when it comes to being creative in serving the community. The SRO program is no different.

Here are some wonderful

Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

examples of programs our SROs have started: • Officer Greg Chmara created a video series called “Hanging with Officer Greg.” He did this during the pandemic so teachers had a series of videos they could show children while they were teaching virtually. Topics range from backpack safety, desert creatures and—coming soon—“ask the police chief.”

• Officer Vivian Lopez created the Junior Police Officer program. Kids learn about playground safety and anti-bullying strategies. It also teaches children that police officers are there to help people in their time of need.

After six weeks in the program, there is a graduation ceremony for the group, followed promptly

by the next group of junior police officers.

• Officer Andrea Keena created a poster competition. Students are given a different topic each year.

They then create a poster about the topic and the top three winners receive a certificate. This allows Officer Keena to engage with the children as they are creating their posters, teaching them while encouraging creativity.

The SROs spend a great deal of time and resources ensuring school campuses are safe, while also being highly visible and engaged with students and faculty. This includes the community’s safety during school hours. Now that school is back in session, we want to remind everyone to take extra time wherever you are

driving in town. Traffic congestion increases, especially during the morning and afternoon hours.

Also, be on the lookout for school buses stopping to pick up/drop off students.

In closing, I have a message for students: As you return to school, these officers are so excited to see “their kids.”

It has been a tough year being away from the schools and not seeing your teachers, friends and SROs. We have missed each and every one of you over the past year and are looking forward to seeing your smiling faces. Just remember OVPD SROs are part of your school’s family, and we are thrilled to say welcome back!

Kara Riley is the Oro Valley Chief of Police.

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Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

SHEPHERD HILLS SENIOR LIVING Guiding Tranquility in the Old Pueblo

Residents at Shepherd Hills enjoy our gardens filled with a variety of fruit trees and flowering plants.

During the warmer seasons, birds and butterflies are a common sight in our tranquil oasis. Residents can participate in the Shepherd Hills Gardening Program at any level they are comfortable with. Whether you still enjoy planting and tending the garden or simply enjoy a quiet stroll along the garden pathways, Shepherd Hills is full with beautiful outdoor spaces.

Perfect Location

Our location is just far enough removed from daily traffic and noise while still being conveniently located. Situated in the peaceful Harold Bell Wright Neighborhood, our residents enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and the green spaces provided at the Harold Bell Wright Park. Also, we are nearby to amenities and services such as restaurants, shops, banks, and the medical facilities. Shepherd Hill’s location blends the quiet surroundings of a rural neighborhood with all the convenience of living in the city.

Sewing

Continued from P1 Award categories include “Pawsome Embroidery,” “The Cat’s Meow,” and best of show. In addition, aboveand-beyond awards went to Rita Morrow, who created 19 cat crate beds, and Rosalee Zipp, who created 30 pet bandanas. Rewards for award-winners include gift cards for customers, or a paid day off for employees.

“We see some unbelievable examples of creativity from our staff and community,” Cathey said. “It’s a hot time of year, and there’s not a lot of events going on in July in Tucson. So we thought this was a good way to keep people engaged. And connecting it to a charity is a good way to give back. Tucson’s been exceptionally good to my family, and we have a responsibility to give back.”

Cathey says the idea for the Christmas-In-July event came from him and his wife, and they’ve been hosting it for more than 20 years. They started tying it to local nonprofits 10 years ago. They select nonprofits by asking their staff and customers for a list of potential charities to support, then select ones they can connect with a sewing challenge. Previous charities include Aviva Children’s Services, as well as initiatives for breast cancer awareness.

“We are over the moon about the funds, because it will help us save a lot of homeless pets,” said HSSA spokesperson Camille Hall.

“Generally, the money goes wherever we need it. We never know what case will come through our door next, so we put that money wherever we can to help pets... The people who participated in Cathey’s event really got to customize the bandanas with whatev-

er embroidery they wanted. They say really adorable things like ‘ready to go home.’

Others have cute patterns, suns and glitter.”

Other phrases on the pet bandanas include “Ready to be rescued,” “Take me home,” “I heart to chew toys” and “Looking for my forever home.”

The Humane Society will not be selling the donated bandanas and crate beds. Instead, they will give the items to the animals in their shelter, who will be able to keep them even when they’re adopted.

“This really touched our hearts for a number of reasons,” Hall said. “The transition to a home for a shelter pet can be really difficult.

Switching from environment to environment can be very stressful for a pet, and having a familiar item, like a bandana for dogs or a crate pad for cats, can really make that transition easier.”

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Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

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ACROSS

Gets rid of, so to speak 5 Parties with glowsticks 10 Old-fashioned taste?

13 Menu at un café 15 Amazon’s biz 16 Subj. for some aspiring bilinguals 17 Clamoring for “The Bonfire of the Vanities”?

19 They can help you get out of a rut, for short 20 Business plan 21 One of 20 on the Titanic 23 TV alien played by Robin Williams 1

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“The Importance of Being Earnest”?

26 Group with lodges 28 Exam with logic questions, for short 29 “Any other place besides here?”

34 Genesis creator 37 Curse 38 Kindle, e.g. … or a hint to this puzzle’s theme?

41 Hair color of about 2% of the world’s population 42 Not fooled by 44 They’re a bit of a stretch 46 Some jeans features 49 Humorist Bombeck

DOWN

Philosopher with a “razor” 2 Crime drama set in the Midwest 3 Fast-food fixture 4 Rascal 5 Counterpart of “FF” 6 Bikini, e.g.

7 Sound 8 Towering figure of architecture?

9 Is out 10 Creatures that have the densest fur of any mammal (up to 1 million hairs per square inch) 11 Hayes with three Grammys and an Oscar 1

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). It feels like you are fighting the good fight on a grand scale, though perhaps it’s really a small scale approached with grand feeling. Either way, you can be sure you’re making a difference, and your growing passion will have even greater impact in the future.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). At times, you’ve felt you were reacting to life -- dealing with its impositions and struggling through its obstacle course. This week represents a shift in your approach. You become proactive -- an artist with a strong vision. You’ll invent your life in your head first and then live your creation.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Forget about trying to be popular, appropriate or correct. Cooperation is more important than any detail or technicality. Solve the matter at hand. It is said that love is the answer, but not for this week’s problem. Love is too open to interpretation. What’s needed here is more cut and dried. The answer: respect.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’ll witness a shift in a relationship this week. Your sense of emotional security doesn’t ride on this. Wisdom has taught you how relationships don’t really progress -- they just change. With an accepting spirit, you can see differences as beautiful in their own way. One form isn’t better than another.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The spider spins a gossamer web -- intricate, symmetrical and artistic. And though this may be the spider’s lovely home, its primary purpose is to catch a meal. This week, stay far away from the glittery attractions designed to catch more than just your interest, which are stickier and more dangerous than they look.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The right decision is not to decide. Stand in one place, and let the scene move around you. It’s like you’re in a cloud that lets the light in dramatically and unpredictably, highlighting various meanings and options. By the end of the week, you’ll have many new insights about the environment and your place in it.

Crossword Puzzle Answers

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Power is not freedom.

The power position often has more limits, rules and responsibilities than a lower-status position. Another thing to consider: Everyone in power owes a debt to someone. Before you seize the high-status position, be sure you know the cost. Ask yourself, “Is it really worth it?”

A D S

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TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You’re skilled in the art of diffusing tension and de-escalating conflict. In difficult and complicated negotiations, you’re the calm eye of the storm. When things seem to be reaching an emotional peak, move slow, talk low and come up with a reason to leave for a moment. In stepping back, you get closer.

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“Lady Lazarus” poet Sylvia 14 See 61-Across 18 Onetime popular blog that covered Manhattan gossip 22 Predisposition 25 R&B’s ___ Brothers 27 Big name in jeans 29 “___ goes there?”

30 Lay figure?

31 People person, perhaps 32 Portuguese title with a tilde 33 Cusps 35 “My word!”

36 Often-skipped parts of podcasts 39 Coarse 40 Dashboard abbr.

43 “Essential” things 45 Gold insignia of the armed forces 47 Babe or Wilbur, in film 48 Conceptual framework 50 Aristotle, to Alexander the Great 51 Tony nominee Milo 52 A host 53 Host 55 Singer of the titular song in 2012’s “Skyfall” 56 Clear one’s plate, in a way 57 Bothered terribly 60 Gives the thumbs-up 63 “___ Last Bow” (Sherlock Holmes story) 12

G A W K E R

30

50 Spot to store “A Confederacy of Dunces”?

54 ___ Zor-El, real name of Supergirl 58 Battle with clearly defined sides 59 “Now wait just a second!”

61 With 14-Down, what “Fin” might mean 62 Positive review of a Nancy Drew mystery?

64 “Jingle Bells” contraction 65 Architect born in Guangzhou 66 A dance or a dip 67 Narc (on) 68 Six of the first 10 elements on the periodic table 69 Units of poetry

A T E A T

26

12

16

21 24

11

S S I L E S E A A E B O A P I T C S A T S E G R R E P O S E M A K A R O L D I K E E N S A L S F E E

10

18

23

50

9

15

20

29

8

V E A I L F I F D E L E D E G A E R S T H H Y I S

17

7

E M C E E

14

6

H E A P S

13

5

S C H E M A

4

S T E I N N D K E L R E E O I P L E S T P I G

3

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). People won’t surprise you too much; your predictions about them will be about right. You can definitely use this to your advantage.

When the rewards come, accept them as perks of the people skills you’ve honed. Your sharp observations and keen knowledge of human character were bound to pay off sometime.

W H E H E X O N T R O V E R T

2

HOROSCOPE By Holiday Mathis ARIES (March 21-April 19). There is no good reason your success should elude you. You’re ready; you’re talented; and you have the goods. Additionally, this thing you want would be a stellar fit for your life. If it remains out of reach, it’s only because it remains out of focus. Stop dividing your time. Prioritize ruthlessly.

Organize around it.

O S H E A

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T U T O R

10

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’re still processing an event from years ago and will be surprised at how it pops up as a topic this week.

Friends may not seem to completely understand you or relate to you in the way you’d prefer, but interactions will still have benefits that far outweigh what you can learn by keeping everything to yourself.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). If you only interacted with the people and things you liked, your world would be small and sad. While some new interests spark immediate and obvious affinity, many are slow-growing attractions -- tastes, talents and passions that must be cultivated. It will benefit you to give things a chance to grow on you.

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THEATER

Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E. Broadway Blvd.; $21.95-$23.95; $13.95 children; 886-9428 or thegaslighttheatre.com.

• Catch a performance of the Invisible Theatre’s Gloria: A Life with a richly detailed tapestry about one of the most inspiring and remarkable women of our time who has raised her voice for equality for five decades. Details: 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; 1400 N. First Ave.; $40; 882-9721 or invisibletheatre.com.

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WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY, AUG. 1829

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FRIDAY TO SUNDAY, AUG. 2022 AND AUG. 2729

• Explore how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness at Next to Normal taking you into the hearts and minds of each character presenting their family’s powerful story with love, sympathy and heart. Details: 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; Scoundrel and Scamp Theatre at the Historic Y, 738 N. Fifth Ave.; $22.50-$29.50; sapactucson.org.

THURSDAY, AUG. 26

• Enjoy an afternoon with the GVR Valley Players performing a collection of old-time radio skits. Details: 2 p.m.; Green Valley Recreation West Social Center, 1111 S. GVR Dr.; $10; 520-6250288 or gvrec.org.

FRIDAY TO SUNDAY THROUGH AUG. 28

• Catch a performance of critically acclaimed, award-winning author John W. Lowell’s funny, tender new play The Standby Lear about an understudy’s last great opportunity and whether he is up to the task. Details: 7:30 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday; Live Theatre Workshop, 3322 E. Fort Lowell Rd.; $18-$20; 327-4242.

WEDNESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY THROUGH AUG. 29

THURSDAY, AUG. 19

• Get your tickets before they are sold out for The Mavericks ‘En Español’ World Tour marking more than 30 years of hits with their eclectic rock and country music. Details: 7:30 p.m.; Fox Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.; $42.50$72.50; foxtucson.com.

FRIDAY, AUG. 20

• Dance the night away at the I Love Rock & Roll Dance Party with ROH Band performing a wide variety of classic cover songs along with some originals that add their own special flavor. Details: 7-9:30 p.m.; Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road; $20; 529-1000 or gaslightmusichall.com.

SATURDAY, AUG. 21

• Don’t miss the long-time Tucson favorite The Jack Bishop Country Band.

Details: 6 p.m.; Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road; $27 with discounts for children, seniors and military; 529-1000 or gaslightmusichall.com.

• Listen to the Downtown Clifton Summer Jazz Series sponsored by the Tucson Jazz Festival bringing back the supper club with dinner and a courtyard concert by the jazz trio Yardfire. Details: 7 p.m.; Downtown Clifton Hotel, 485 S. Stone Ave.; $45; 591-9556.

• Change your attitude, kick back, sip a cold one or two, and sing along with the greatest hits of Jimmy Buffet at MargaritaWorld – A Vegas Tribute to Jimmy Buffet. Details: 7:30 p.m.; DesertView Performing Arts Center, 39900 S. Clubhouse Drive; $30; 825-2818.

SUNDAY, AUG. 22

• Join Gaslight favorites Armen Dirtadian and David Fanning as they sing • Don’t miss the intergalactic singing and dancing space odyssey Space Wars hits like Delilah, She’s a Lady and more careening through the galaxy defending at Back to Back - The Music of Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck. freedom in the Gaslight Theatre’s Details: 6 p.m.; Gaslight Music Hall, unique style. Details: 7 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 6 p.m. Friday, 6 and 8:30 13005 N. Oracle Road; $27 with discounts for children, seniors and military; p.m. Saturday, 3 and 6 p.m. Sunday; 529-1000 or gaslightmusichall.com.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 3

• Listen to celebrated music icon and Grammy Award-winning Chaka Khan with special guest Sheila E. live at the AVA Amphitheater. Details: 8 p.m.; Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road; $15-$85; 800-344-9435.

SPECIAL EVENTS FRIDAY, AUG. 20

• Bring the entire family to Celebrate All Things Tucson – S-cuk Son, Tucson’s official 246th birthday fiesta featuring Folklorico dancing, Waila music, food and family activities.

Details: 6:15 p.m.; Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Ave.; free admission; 622-0594 or tucsonpresidio.com.

SATURDAYS THROUGH AUG. 28 • Bring your flashlight and explore as the sunset turns into dark skies and nocturnal creatures come to life at Cool Saturday Nights at the Desert Museum. Details: 5-9 p.m.; Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Rd.; $19.95-$23.95, $11.95 youth; 883-2702 or desertmuseum. org.

CLASSES & PROGRAMS MONDAY, AUG. 23

• Connect with your Tucson Audubon friends and share your stories and pictures at Birds ’n’ Beer – Rare & Interesting Birds in SE Arizona hosted by Luke Safford. Details: 7-8 p.m.; tucsonaudubon.org.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 25

• Explore Botanical Art in Watercolor: Cholla Blossoms through a centuries-old unique medium for beginner to intermediate level artists with instructor Adele Antoinette. Details: 5:30-7 p.m.; online with Zoom link provided; $30, See HAPPENINGS, P15

15

Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

SPORTS EXTRA POINT WITH TOM DANEHY &RECREATION

Show off your game at the debut Battle for Tucson golf tourney Tom Danehy

Special to Tucson Local Media

M

y friend Rob and I have been doing basketball stuff (camps, leagues, reffing, playing) for more than two decades. He was a stud athlete in high school and played some ball in college. After college, he got into coaching. He and I actually coached against each other twice. My Amphi Freshman girls’ team went undefeated that season while Rob’s team only lost two games all year. I’ve always wanted to put that in print (even though it’s been 20 years); for some reason, Sports Illustrated passed on that story.

After coaching, he became a ref, quickly moving up the ranks. He went from reffing high-school JV games to doing college games in just four years. He was on his way to the

Happenings Continued from P14 discount for members; 326-9686 or tucsonbotanical.org.

FRIDAY, AUG. 27

• Spruce up your boring outdoor space with Eye Catching Plants for the Desert Garden presented by horticulturist and author “AZ Plant Lady” Noelle Johnson. Details: 10 a.m.-noon; online with Zoom link provided; $30, discount for members; 326-9686 or tucsonbotanical.org.

Big Time, perhaps even joining the stratospheric ranks of Chris Rastatter and Bob Schofield, two Tucsonans who have done multiple NCAA Final Four games.

(Just as an aside, did you know that people who referee Pac-12 basketball games make at least $2,500 per game?!)

He eventually started a career in law enforcement and, sadly, stopped reffing, but he’s one of those disgusting 27-hours-in-a-day guys, always needing to do more. He became a fitness devotee. He’s not a maniac or anything. He just works out hard and, somewhere along the line, he made a lifetime deal with fat that they would leave each other alone. He may be the healthiest person I know, freakishly fit and perfectly on-balance.

His lifestyle, along with in-person deep dives into the cultures of more than 40

countries around the world, eventually led him to help others and he now owns Tucson Wellness MD, a multi-purpose facility that helps men and women achieve better fitness and a healthier lifestyle.

He’s asked me to stop by his clinic, but I think he just wants to use me as a Before photo.

I’m more of a Eubie Blake devotee. After living to be 100, the jazz pianist said, “If I had known I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of myself.”

I did offer Rob a slogan for his place. You know how they say that “60 is the new 40?”

How about “Still Alive is the New Dead?” For some reason, he politely declined.

While his company is doing quite well, he’s all about being a part of the community and giving back. He’s always been athletic and really competitive. So, Tucson Wellness is

sponsoring a golf tournament on Sept. 18, with foursomes from different businesses and government entities competing for the sweetest prize of all—bragging rights.

It will be the first tournament of its kind, with the winning team having its organization’s name put on the Champions Plaque that will be mounted on the Tucson Wellness “Winners’ Wall.”

There will also be a cash prize and some services from his business, but that’s inconsequential. We don’t need no stinkin’ money. We just want to talk crap to those guys from Raytheon.

Speaking of which, we all know at least one person from Raytheon. Have you even gotten a straight answer as to what they do?

So, you work at Raytheon.

What is it that you do?

Well, um, you know, I work

one hour like being on a treasure hunt at the 1K/5K Fun Run/Walk. Details: 6:30-8:30 a.m.; Rillito River Park, Campbell Avenue to La Cholla Blvd. along the Rillito River; $6; 981-2529 or tucsonorienteeringclub.org.

bilingual programming. Details: 5-7 p.m.; 200 S. 6th Ave.; $4.50; 792-9985.

SUNDAYS, AUG. 22SEPT. 26

SUNDAY, AUG. 22

• Don your running shoes for the Southern Arizona Roadrunners TMC Meet Me Downtown 5k Run/Walk & Festival of Miles. Details: 6:30 a.m. open mile, 7 a.m. run/walk, 8 a.m.

FitKidz free mile; Children’s Museum Tucson, 200 S. Sixth Ave.; $40; 9910733 or azroadrunners.org.

OUTDOORS CHILDREN THURSDAY, AUG. 19 SATURDAY, AUG. 21

• Use a map of the park and neighborhood to pick your own route with as many checkpoints as you can get to in

• Enjoy a fun family outing at Discovery Nights at the Children’s Museum Tucson with half-price admission and

• Bring the kids for the Woodland Games fun competition testing their FRIDAY TO SUNDAY, AUG. 2029 outdoor knowledge and solving a • Bring the entire family to the brandmystery at The Conundrum at Camp new musical comedy Disney’s DeCatalina at the Children’s Theatre. scendants: The Musical featuring the Details: 1 p.m. Sunday; Live Theatre beloved characters and hit songs from Workshop, 3322 E. Fort Lowell Rd.; $10, the films and a story that everyone will $7 children; 327-4242. love. Details: 7 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7 p.m.

Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; Arts Express Theatre, 5870 E. Broadway Blvd., #214; $40; 319-0400 or arts-express.org.

SATURDAY, AUG. 21

HEALTH

SATURDAY, AUG. 21 AND 28

• Explore the folklore and science related to the familiar star pattern at the stellar production The Big Dipper by the award-winning Red Herring Puppets. Details: 2 and 4 p.m.; Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Rd.; $8; redherringpuppets.com.

• Learn about the latest in fitness, nutrition, health, psychology, workplace wellness and more at the 21st Annual Tucson Health and Wellness Expo featuring technologies and practitioners who are leading the health and fitness revolution. Details: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Doubletree Hotel at Reid Park, 445 S. Alvernon Way; free admission; eventbrite.com.

at Raytheon.

Rob is excited about this tournament and what it could do for his hometown. “All my life, Tucson has been seen by a lot of people as this sleepy little university town, but I think the potential here in Tucson is through the roof. We’re coming out of the pandemic and there’s all this pent-up energy.

We could have a business and community boom. I want to use this tournament to help make connections, to help give Tucson a little tiny boost that, we hope can snowball and lead to greater things.”

He wants to get teams from across the spectrum. “This is all about fun, Tucson culture and sportsmanship. So, no ringers!

I want to help build our community with some healthy competition and good fun.”

The tournament will be at The Lodge at Ventana Canyon Golf Resort. And since it’s in

September, the weather will be perfect. The deal is that the weather is nasty hot and humid in Tucson until the first weekend of college football, after which the weather is no longer a factor because it’s real football season (not NFL preseason football season).

Entry in the tournament also includes a spectacular lunch spread featuring something called Brownies & Blondies. (I could probably write an entire column about that.)

Rob is hoping to make this an annual event, a gathering of sports-minded groups coming together for a morning of friendly competition, followed by (for one lucky foursome) an afternoon of talking some mad yang.

For more information on the tournament and/or to sign up a team, please visit battlefortucson. tournamentadvantage.com.

16

Explorer and Marana News, August 18, 2021

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HOME SWEET HOME 2021

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HOME SWEET HOME 2021

Reimagining your Home Sweet Home

R

egardless of whether they’re planned or an emergency, home improvement and renovation projects can have you pulling your hair out — but that doesn’t have to be the case! Just as it’s important to have the right tool for the job, it’s also crucial to have the right person with the right tools.

With Tucson’s currently super hot real estate market, home improvements can add even more value to your home than they usually would.

These can range from projects as simple as painting, professionally

cleaning and lawn maintenance to large-scale projects like paving and roof repair.

There are even home projects that can save you money in the long run, such as xeriscaping your lawn to be more water efficient and updating air conditioners and lights to be more energy efficient.

But living in Arizona, the biggest energy-saving projects are solar panels, which brings us to this special section’s cover story: we spoke with local solar technicians about the main aspects to weigh when considering solar panels, as well as how to

get their costs as low as possible. Of course solar panels pay off in the long run, but we don’t want to be breaking the bank in the moment, either.

We also spoke with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors about the most important things to keep in mind when hiring a contractor for work around your house Your house is your sanctuary, so let’s make sure your improvement projects keep it a home sweet home.

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Projects around the house: Contractors, licenses, costs and quality Jeff Gardner Tucson Local Media

T

he past year and a half have seen multiple reasons Tucson homeowners might be interested in updating or renovating their homes.

If it wasn’t the downpour from a historically rainy July, it was the strong winds and soot from last year’s major fire season.

And that’s not even getting into all the time trapped at home thinking about projects to spruce up your surroundings. Of course, there are many home improvement projects that require a professional’s help. And while their

time, cost and necessary materials can vary greatly, there are many resources to ensure your home-improvement project turns out picture-perfect.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors, a regulatory agency that licenses and regulates residential and commercial contractors, says the two most important steps before hiring a contractor are understanding the details of a project and not making a hurried decision. They remind homeowners to make sure a detailed list of every aspect of the project is included in the contract and to ensure the price if possible. In addition, the NO CITY SALES TAX

3

responsibility of obtaining building permits should be included in a contract, and you should always get it in writing! To put it simply, they say that if you and the contractor do not interpret the written documents the same way, “disputes are to be expected.”

But aside from ensuring you’re on the same page with your contractor, it is of equal importance to make sure your contractor is licensed. The Arizona Registrar of Contractors can receive more than 2,000 unlicensed complaints each year, and that’s just in our state. By See HOME, P4

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Home Sweet Home 2021

Home Continued from P3

August 2020, they had received more than 1,000 complaints, and that was even during a famously low-productivity year.

Unlicensed contractors can cost homeowners hundreds or even thousands of dollars, and the homeowner is often stuck with the bill whether they’re happy with the results or not. Should a homeowner experience problems with a licensed contractor, there are protections through the Registrar of Contractors.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors website allows you to search for contractors by their name, city or classification, or their six-digit license number.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors even has a new podcast where they speak with construction professionals and industry partners about all things related to construction in Arizona, such as workforce development, technology, licensing requirements and more.

Before formalizing a project with a contractor, you may also request a list of references, ask for written estimates from other contractors, and verify that the person you are negotiating your project with is an authorized representative of the licensed contractor.

While there are dozens of types of home improvement projects for many different buildings, one specific housing project is particularly common in Tucson: roof repair. For as

much as we may celebrate living in the southwest, the local climate can be particularly damaging to your roof.

Extreme temperatures, monsoon downpours, strong gusts and even the occasional snowfall may mean your roof is in need of a fix.

This can be a major investment, and that means careful planning. While there can be clear signs your roof needs repair, such as damaged shingles or a leak, you may also want to pay attention to your neighbors’ roofs. Nearby homes are often built around the same time, and that can mean the roofs have a coinciding lifespan and repair schedule.

If the visible damage isn’t enough, you can also schedule a roof inspection, either from a professional roofing service or your insurance company. The size, material, angle and amount of layers all play a factor in the price of roof repair, which often costs homeowners between $5,000 and $10,000, even with insurance.

“Roof repairs and roof installations are common roofing projects in Arizona. A homeowner is typically only going to hire a contractor to repair or replace their roof when there is a problem and a roofing problem usually means a leak is noticeable inside the house. Homeowners and contractors alike are advised to both take photos of damage caused by the initial leak before work is done to remedy the leak,” said Breanna Bang, public

information liaison for the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. “AZ ROC all too often will receive a complaint against a contractor who fixed a leak/replaced a roof and an investigator is often unable to determine when a leak occurred; whether it was before or after the contractor’s work.”

Roof repair can also be a critical step before solar panel installation. Arizona regularly ranks among the best states for solar, and with Tucson’s 350+ sunny days per year, it’s no wonder why. Before installing solar, make sure your roof doesn’t need to be repaired or replaced, as solar panels often have a lifespan of more than 30 years, and you don’t want to have to remove them in the comparatively near future. You should also ensure what material your roof is made of; solar panels work best on strong materials like asphalt shingle or concrete tile. If your roof is made of wood shingles or clay, a specialized solar installation may be necessary.

Google’s Project Sunroof is a helpful tool that allows you to analyze solar benefits, compare financial plans and map out the best areas for solar potential.

One final note about smart home repairs: there are more risks to home improvement projects than a lack of license. Construction scams and phony home repairs are also a common occurrence in the state, and believed to take place nearly every day. These can include people soliciting and performing “bogus or inferior construction services” such as painting, asphalt repair, paving and roofing repair.

“During monsoon and wildfire seasons, Arizona has seen activity from unlicensed individuals traveling to storm and fire damaged areas from out-of-state in order to target damaged home and property owners,” Bang said. “These individuals will typically offer to make low-cost repairs and to start immediately.

In some cases they succeed in getting either a down payment or a signed over insurance check from the damaged homeowner who may be in a hurry to get the damage repaired. Often, these unlicensed individuals abandon the job, performing little to no work.”

Prevent these scams by avoiding door-to-door solicitors who offer low-cost construction, performing license checks and obtaining a written contract that

Courtesy Photo

includes all discussed services, dates and costs. If you believe you may have been scammed, you can contact AZ ROC’s Tucson office at (877) 692-9762.

A payment schedule can also ease disagreements between a contractor and

homeowner. For large projects, a payment schedule usually starts around 10% at contract signing, followed by three payments of 25% evenly spaced over the duration of the project and a check for the final 15%, according to the Registrar.

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HOME SWEET HOME 2021

Homeowners can save money by switching to solar, but be sure to shine some sunlight on the details electric bill each month while increasing their home’s value, according to research conducted by the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

A PV system transforms the energy produced by sunlight into electricity by utilizing a network of solar panels, cables and energy converters.

Technicians For Sustainability co-owner Brian Park said home and business owners can enjoy numerous environmental and economic benefits by retrofitting their property with a PV system. For instance, homes equipped with solar power typically produce 80% fewer carbon

Austin Counts

Special to Tucson Local Media

A

s the average electric bill in Pima County increases each passing year, many Tucsonans wonder whether solar power would be a benefit to their home or business.

Living in a city that receives more than 300 days of sunshine each year lends itself to generating copious amounts of solar power, which is cheaper to produce and deliver to the customer than typical coal energy sources.

Homeowners with a photovoltaic system (PV) tend to save money on their

emissions than fossil fuels, according to a University of California—Berkeley study. Park also notes using solar power reduces the amount of water needed to produce energy as compared to fossil fuels.

“Another interesting thing comes from data we’ve gotten from TEP [Tucson Electric Power].

For every kilowatt-hour of solar produced, it needs about a half-gallon less water than typical energy generation,” Park said. “Considering we live in a desert that gets less water than other places in the country, I think that’s a pretty great environmental benefit to [using]

Photo courtesy Technicians for Sustainability

solar, as well.”

A kilowatt-hour is equivalent to the power consumption of 1,000 watts per hour.

On average, a home PV system can cost anywhere from $17,500 to $20,000

or more, depending on the size of the home and the energy needs of the resident. For businesses, the price could range anywhere from $25,000 to upwards of $700,000, said Park. However, there are

considerable federal and state tax credits available to lower the price of a PV system.

The federal government’s Investment Tax Credit can reduce the cost of a PV system for home or business use by 26%.

Homeowners can take an extra 25% off of their personal income tax filed the year the PV system was installed—up to $1,000— with the Residential Arizona Solar Tax Credit.

The state tax credit for solar is not available for business owners.

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Home Sweet Home 2021

Solar

Continued from P5

solar panels would cost approximately $18,500 if purchased and installed

by Technicians For Sustainability. The federal government’s tax credit would lower that cost by more than $4,800, bringing the total to around $13,700. A homeowner could drop that price down to around $12,700 by using the state’s tax credit.

Arizona also waives sales tax on residential PV systems with the Solar Equipment Sales Tax Exemption and homeowners don’t have to pay additional property taxes should the PV system increase the home’s

value, thanks to the state’s Energy Equipment Property Tax Exemption.

TEP customers who use solar power also receive a monetary credit to their monthly bill of 8.6 cents per kilowatt-hour of unused energy that is returned to their power grid. Trico Electric customers in Marana and unincorporated Pima County could expect a 3-cent credit for each kilowatt-hour returned to Trico’s power grid.

When purchasing a PV system, customers typically choose to either lease or finance instead of buying the system out-

right, said Park. His company works with a credit union to secure loans for his customers who would rather finance. Other local solar companies like Solar City lease PV systems to customers who would like to use solar power but are not looking for a long-term commitment.

Tucson resident Richard Stanley chose to lease his Tesla PV system from local company Solar City for his midtown home instead of purchasing it. The 65-year-old said he is approaching retirement and did not want to invest upwards of $20,000 in solar for his home while preparing to live on a fixed income.

“I wish I could afford to own them, but I can’t,” Stanley said. “The lease

deal was favorable for me and my situation.”

Stanley said while he does see savings on his monthly electric bill, it isn’t as significant as some companies promise—and he is OK with it. He still pays less each month than he did before owning a PV system, he said.

“The bottom line is people think they’re going to save thousands of dollars. They’re not,” Stanley said. “But, I’m saving hundreds of dollars and that’s still savings. It isn’t what some people might expect but it still adds up on a calculator.”

While solar may be the perfect choice for many Old Pueblo dwellers, Park said interested homeowners should consider what their energy needs are, make sure their home

is able to handle a PV system and research the company they plan to use for installation. Two of the most common repairs homeowners face are roof repairs and electrical panel upgrades, according to Park.

“Part of our process is that we check things out, get on the roof and measure, and do all of our due diligence on the design,” Park said. “If we flag something that isn’t in the best shape, the homeowner would have to call a roofer to find out what’s going on. It really depends on the condition of the home.”

Sales staff for numerous solar installation companies use gimmicks and high-pressure sales tactics to get potential customers to sign because

their income is commission-based, according to Park. However, the customer soon finds out they are paying the same amount for electricity— or more—as they were before installing solar, said the TFS co-owner.

“You do need to be a responsible consumer and do some due diligence. If it looks too good to be true, then it is,” Park said. “I think there are a lot of unrealistic scenarios people are presented with when checking out solar. ” Park said people need to watch out for claims that the local energy provider is going to significantly increase the cost per kilowatt-hour by 6% to 8% when in reality Tucson Electric Power averages about a 1% to

Home Sweet Home 2021

2% increase annually. Another unsavory sales tactic some companies use involves offering an extremely low-interest rate to finance a PV system and then tacking on extra fees that were not previously discussed.

“They’re advertising a very low-interest rate but then put together a loan proposal $10,000 to $15,000 more than if they [the customer] would have bought the system outright,” Park said. “It’s the same system, the same number of panels, same technology, same installation. These companies are able to advertise that low interest because they’re adding all these fees to it.”

Homeowner Deborah Partiz and her partner, Rocky recently purchased a larger house to accom-

modate their growing family. After Partiz received her first TEP bill for around $500 at the family’s new home, she said she started looking at solar power to reduce their energy cost. She ended up going with a national company that was able to help the family secure a loan for the system.

In the end, Partiz purchased a large 44-panel PV system to help reduce her monthly energy bill.

However, she said she is not pleased with the system’s results after the first two months of use.

While the PV system has lowered her TEP bill by an average of $50 a month, the cost of the loan—at around $175 a month—far outweighs the savings she is receiving. She said she contact-

ed her company to audit her system and make sure it was working correctly.

They told her to give the system a year to see if it improves, said Partiz. Her loan terms state she needs to pay nearly a quarter of the loan amount within the first 18 months or her monthly payments will rise to $225 a month.

“I’ll give it a year, but in hindsight, I wish I would have gone with a local company, done a little better vetting and gotten a more concrete idea of exactly what I would need to actually get rid of the entire energy bill,” Partiz said. “I mean...44 panels is a lot. It’s a heavy-duty system and everybody that’s checked it out tells me it’s huge. But it’s a drop in the bucket because it’s not doing too much for me.”

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Home Sweet Home 2021