PAWPARAZZI: LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER CREATES CHERISHED MEMORIES
LIFE + CULTURE FROM MAYHEM TO MANAGED: FAMILY LIFE ORGANIZED
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Elevated Design Premium Locations Exceptional Value
Towns at Annecy Gilbert, AZ
1,194 – 1,921 SQ.FT
2-3 Beds | 2-2.5 Baths
2 Bay garage
Walking paths, lakes and pools
Priced from the high $300k’s
Waterston North Gilbert, AZ
FINAL HOMES NOW SELLING
1,836 – 3,979 SQ.FT
3-5 Beds | 2-4 Baths
2-3 Bay garage
7-acre Central Park, Grand Ramada, pool and clubhouse
Priced from the high $700k's
Treeland Chandler, AZ
2,427 – 3,199 SQ.FT
3-4 Beds | 2.5-3 Baths
3 Bay garage
Community ramada, dining area and tot lot
Priced from the low $700k’s
Whispering Hills Laveen, AZ
2,346 – 4,304 SQ.FT
3-5 Beds | 2.5-4.5 Baths
2-4 Bay garage
60 acres of open space and 4 pocket parks
Priced from the high $500k’s
Waterston Central Gilbert, AZ
NOW SELLING
1,836 – 4,454 SQ.FT
3-6 Beds | 2-4.5 Baths
2-4 Bay garage
Pool, Playground, Splash Pad, Firepit, Lake, Basketball Courts
Priced from the mid 500k’s
Priced from the mid $600k's Sentinel at Oro Ridge Queen Creek, AZ
2,665 – 3,124 SQ.FT
4-5 Beds | 2.5-3 Baths
3 Bay garage
Community trails, play grounds, and parks
Priced from the mid $500k’s Bella Vista Farms San Tan Valley, AZ
Queen Creek, AZ
1,880 – 4,850 SQ.FT
3-6 Beds | 2-4.5 Baths 2-4 Bay garage
Walking trails, parks, play areas and pool
2,737 – 3,146 SQ.FT
4-5 Beds | 2.5-3.5 Baths
3 Bay garage
10 acre park, community pool, basketball and volleyball court
Priced from the low $500k’s
Blossom Rock Apache Junction, AZ NOW SELLING
3,081 - 3,453 SQ.FT
4-5 Beds | 3-4 Baths
3-4 Bay garage
Expected to feature a dog park, basketball, tennis and pickleball courts, playground and pool
Priced from the mid $600k’s
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Our Best Friends
Hello, fellow furry friends and hoomans! It’s me, Oakley, your rovering reporter. I’m here to tell you all about this pawsome issue of our magazine!
Can you believe it? They’ve made a whole issue just for us pets and our little human friends! It’s gonna be full of tail-wagging fun! Oh, and get this - there’s a human who takes pictures of us pets! I wonder if she has any treats to make us pose? I always give my best smile when there are treats involved!
There’s also a place called Pixie Sticks Dog Boutique that has all sorts of fun things for us dogs. My mom even takes me there to get a fresh look.
I heard there’s something called a “family planner” in here too. I’m not sure what that is, but I hope it includes scheduled belly rub times and extra walks!
And guess what? There’s a recipe for cold treats! I hope they’re dog-friendly. If not, maybe I can convince my humans to share?
Time flies when you’re having fun in Gilbert! I love playing fetch (I’m the best at it, you know), snuggling on the couch (it’s the perfect nap spot), and going for walks in the evening (so many interesting smells!).
Being part of this family is the best. My mom says she’s glad to be my mom, but I think I’m the lucky one! I get all the love and cuddles I could ever want.
I hope you all enjoy this special issue as much as I do. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think it’s time for my afternoon nap.
Kristy Belley, Linda Ditch, Michelle Glicksman, Gretchen Pahia, Kylie Strawn-Badger
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Hannah Carl, Officer D Fisher, Officer S Hewerson, Sgt. C Morin, Quianna Marie Photography, Frank Rau, Officer A Salcido, Officer K Smith, Yasmine Carmen Photographer
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Unveil Your Radiant Smile
Gilbert
Evolve Counseling & Behavioral Health Services
The Familiarity of Attraction: Why We Gravitate Towards What We Know in Relationships
Have you ever noticed that, as time passes in your relationship, your partner begins to exhibit characteristics that seem oddly familiar? This is because we tend to be attracted to what is familiar to us, for better or worse, often without even realizing it.
The hard truth is we attract to people who remind us of the environment we grew up in. You may find yourself questioning if you’re overreacting to your partner’s behaviors or if your partner is truly acting out the same behaviors you experienced growing up. It’s possible you’re experiencing both because we choose our partners based on what we learned in our upbringings. Sometimes this can lead to reopening old wounds. So, what can we do to prevent old wounds from being reopened?
1. Self-awareness: Be aware and accepting of your own history and how you coped with your environment. Understand how these coping mechanisms show up in your relationships.
2. Work on Unhealthy Behaviors: Seek professional guidance to develop healthy ways to cope with stress and emotional triggers.
3. Communicate with Your Partner: Make your partner aware of your triggers. Grieve the fact that your partner cannot give you the things you didn’t get in childhood, and you cannot do the same for them. Strive to show up as your best self.
4. Apologize and Learn: When toxic behaviors surface, apologize for those behaviors and learn from the experience.
5. Boundaries: develop emotional, physical, and sexual boundaries within the relationship.
By understanding and addressing these deep-seated patterns, we can break the cycle and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
Author: Nicoletta Carbone, MS, LAC
in August
Spinato’s has expanded the collaboration to “ Wizarding World of Za” featuring new pizza and craft beer pairings that are co-created with Spinato family members. The innovative campaign is inspired by the creativity of Harry Potter. The magic of Italy is the inspiration for Anthony Spinato’s “The Guancialador Pizza,” which will be available at all Spinato’s restaurants in August. The special pizza is paired with 12 West Brewing Co.’s “The Wizard of The West” craft beer, a honey IPA.
Nicoletta Carbone MS, LAC
Photography by Spinato's Pizzeria & Family Kitchen
10 Local kids were treated to a shopping spree
Super Bowl Champ, Arizona Cardinal Cornerback, Sean Murphy-Bunting, and his Successful Jocks Foundation treated local kids with a shopping spree at DICK’S Sporting Goods. 10 participants were randomly selected from signups for Sean’s free youth football camp.
Sneakybird Opens Doors in Gilbert’s Verde at Cooley Station Community
Sneakybird, a local and family-owned restaurant that opened its doors in the Valley in 2022 and offers a quick, craft, casual approach to signature oven-grilled chicken wings, tenders, and sandwiches complemented by handcrafted flatbreads, tater tots, and fresh chilled veggies, is pleased to announce the opening of its second restaurant.
Photography by sneakybird
Photography by William Raymond Communications
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY YASMINE CARMEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Adventure A Tail-Wagging
MEET THE PASSIONATE MINDS BEHIND GILBERT'S PREMIER DOG BOUTIQUE, BRINGING COUTURE STYLE AND PERSONALIZED PET PAMPERING TO OUR TOWN
Pixie Sticks Dog Boutique is a heartwarming story of passion and dedication brought to life by James and Jodalee Tevault. They often visited pet stores but found the same old products every time. This sparked an idea: why not create something fun and different for dogs and their owners? Their vision became even more apparent after a terrible grooming experience with their miniature Australian Shepherd and Cocker Spaniel mix, Reese’s. They wanted better for their dog and knew others would, too. That’s how Pixie Sticks Dog Boutique was born.
The boutique’s name comes from their six-year-old English Bulldog, Pixie Sticks, who is the true inspiration and the “boss” of the shop.
Their personal experiences with their dogs heavily influenced the vision for Pixie Sticks. They always looked for fun and unique activities for their dogs but needed help finding much locally. This motivated them to create a place where dog lovers could find cute, exceptional items and connect with a community of fellow pet enthusiasts.
A pivotal moment for Pixie Sticks was finding the perfect location at Verde at Cooley Station. After years of searching and nearly giving up, they found a space with green areas ideal for hosting dog events. This discovery solidified their decision to move forward with their dream.
Since opening, Pixie Sticks has grown significantly. In May, they were thrilled to win Best New Business by Gilbert Sun News, showing just how much their community loves them and the concept.
The values guiding Pixie Sticks are all about care and quality. They focus on stress-free grooming sessions and carefully select products for their shop. Many of their items are handmade, supporting other small businesses, and are personally tested to ensure top quality.
Before opening, James and Jodalee hosted their first Easter Egg-Stravaganza event, where they met Bacon (@ corgiclubcolton), a dog influencer, and his lovely mama, Ginger. They have become great friends and supporters. With his social media reach and network, Pixie Sticks has gained many new customers.
Community support has been crucial to the boutique’s growth. Seeing dogs enjoy their products and hearing from first-time customers who were referred by friends is heartwarming. They especially love when customers bring in friends or family to share the Pixie Sticks experience.
Looking to the future, James and Jodalee hope to create lasting memories for dogs and their owners. They want Pixie Sticks Dog Boutique to be a place where dogs are loved, spoiled, and understood, becoming a happy and memorable part of their customers’ lives.
This continuous support from the community has been the backbone of their success. Through events, wordof-mouth referrals, and social media, Pixie Sticks Dog Boutique has become a beloved part of the local pet community, reinforcing James and Jodalee’s dream of creating a special place for dogs and their owners.
James and Jodalee have big plans for the future of Pixie Sticks. They aim to introduce more themed events, expand their product line, and continue building strong relationships with their customers. Their ultimate goal is to create a nationwide network of loyal customers who see Pixie Sticks as the go-to destination for all things dog-related. They believe that with their dedication and the unwavering support of the community, they can make this dream a reality. To learn more about them check out their website www.pixiesticksdogboutiqueaz.com
Evan VowelsOutstanding Youth Volunteer
One of Gilbert’s Youngest Citizens Proves You’re Never Too Small to Make a Big Difference!”
Volunteering can start at any age – just ask 11-year-old Gilbert resident Evan Vowels. The Ashland Ranch Elementary School 6th grader has made volunteerism a part of his daily life. “Evan has always had a giving and thoughtful heart,” shares his mom, Shannon. “He has done service alongside the family since he was very young.”
Evan was recently awarded the Youth Volunteer of the Year award, a great honor for the young boy. “He was really surprised to even be nominated, but to win was a really neat and unexpected experience for him,” shares Shannon.
Each summer, Open Arms food pantry faces shortages as donations decrease while demand rises due to children missing school meals. Evan’s jelly/jam drive significantly helped, collecting 702 jars. This donation provided jelly for all families in need throughout the challenging summer months, making a substantial impact on the community.
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA
Evan has taken part in several service projects, including collecting donations and supplies to make homeless kits that were given to the Aris Foundation and the Gilbert Police Department to distribute. He also helped to facilitate a Jelly Drive and a Cereal Drive for Open Arms Food Bank, and enlisted kids to create Valentine’s Cards for Gilbert Assisted Living residents.
Shannon says that she believes that for Evan, this is just his way of life now and in the future. “He plans to always volunteer and help those in the community.” His fundraising efforts so far have been limited to his family and friends, but mom says he wants to branch out more. “He has designed a Gilbert t-shirt to sell with proceeds going to his service projects that benefit Gilbert residents in need.”
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH CARL @PAWSITIVELYHANNAH
PAWSATIVELY PERFECT
Pawfect Portraits: Creating Lasting Memories of Our Four-legged Family Members
They say a photo is worth one thousand words, and for those dedicated pet lovers, having photos of their furry friends is probably worth one million.
It is for that reason that Hannah Carl decided to become a pet photographer. “Through my career working in animal shelters that I realized the impact that a good photo can have on an animal. I picked up a camera and started teaching myself how to take photos of adoptable pets with it. My heart would soar every time someone would tell me they came to meet an adoptable pet because of a photo they saw on the shelter’s website. Then, about a year ago I decided to branch out and start my own business so that I could photograph pets that already had homes as well.”
Carl says being behind the camera and making not only the people, but the pets smile, makes it all worthwhile. “It’s always hilarious and unexpected for me to encounter a pet who is so confident in front of the camera and just knows exactly what I want them to do and how to work their angles.” However, it isn’t always so easy to get the pets to cooperate with her. “A lot of pets can be shy in front of the camera, and it’s very typical for me to spend a
decent amount of time at the beginning of a session getting a pet acclimated and comfortable with having their photo taken.”
Getting those candid moments on camera is one of Carl’s favorite things, using props and getting those musthave shots. “Recently I made dog-friendly ice cream and pupsicles, and asked the dog owners to hold them in front of their pets while I snapped photos. It was awesome for
“It’s always hilarious and unexpected for me to encounter a pet who is so confident in front of the camera and just knows exactly what I want them to do and how to work their angles.”
dogs who would normally be fearful but because they end up so focused on their treat, they don’t even notice the flash going off. It was a huge hit.”
For Carl, the photos need to display characteristics of being Authentic, Playful, and Vibrant. If she can make those three things happen with each snap of her camera, she believes those to be the most successful photos she can offer.
“My photos always tend to be very vibrant and fun because I feel like it best represents the spirit of pets in general.”
If you are interested in checking out Hannah’s photography skills and work, you can find her on Instragram at @pawsitivelyhannah
MAYHEM TO MANAGED
Gilbert couple transformed family chaos into harmony, creating a unique planner that fosters communication, organization, and stronger bonds through intentional family meetings
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY QUIANNA MARIE
PHOTOGRAPHY @QUIANNAMARIE
In today’s world, keeping track of all the family activities at any given time can be daunting, and often family time falls to the side. However, one Gilbert area family decided to do something to help other families ensure they are making time for one another.
“We aim to make family meetings engaging, promoting accountability & better communication for all.”
Alex and Lisa Mont-Ros created The Family Meeting Planner, designed to help families communicate effectively, stay organized, and build stronger relationships and intentional family meetings. “This planner aims to make family meetings engaging and productive, promoting accountability and better communication among family members,” says Lisa.
The two are parents to five children within their blended family and they’ve been parenting for more than 20 years now, married for 10. This marriage is a second marriage for both. After finding one another following the end of their first marriages, Alex and Lisa decided to take steps to build stronger family bonds.
One of the driving forces behind The Family Planner was their shared grief after the miscarriage of their first child together. “Determined to honor our lost daughter, Alex and I started a business together. Despite outward appearances, I felt tired and resentful. One day, I realized I had control over my life and didn't need to feel exhausted or guilty. This awakening led me to help other women find happiness,” shared Lisa.
For Alex, there was not only that grief but also his personal drive that helped bring The Family Planner to fruition. “I believe men can have it all without compromising their families, health, or marriages,” says Alex. “Life is uncertain, so live with intentionality today. Leading at
home sets the foundation for success in all other areas.”
So what is The Family Meeting Planner? It includes sections for creating family core values, defining family visions, setting quarterly and yearly goals, and it provides 52 weeks of agenda worksheets.
Family meetings for the couple and their blended family were not an instant success, they had to overcome some challenges along the way. “Over the years, we used to have a lot of family meetings, but it was hard to stay organized. We had a lot of loose agendas and no real process. It was tough to stay focused and know what to do the following week after our family meeting was done,” shares Lisa.
To help overcome these challenges, the couple reviewed all the potential solutions so they could create a better way to keep connected and communicate better as a family unit. “We created this methos to make our family meetings work the way we wanted. Our family grew closer, and we talked about important stuff week over week,” says Lisa.
The pair has seen many other successes for those using The Family Meeting Planner as well, with clients reporting greater success, focus intention in meetings, and helped families communicate more effectively along the way. For Alex and Lisa, it isn’t just about seeing families get together, it is about the intention and interactions along the way. “Our goal is to help families thrive by empowering busy fathers and mothers to lead with intention. Regular family meetings can bring everyone together, align goals, and foster meaningful communication.”
If you are interested in learning more about The Family Meeting Planner, you can reach them online at familymeetingplanner.com.
Filled SMOKE ROOMS
Local Entrepeneurs design a device to help save your pets' lives
ARTICLE BY KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY RESCUE RETRIEVER
In a world where pets are cherished family members, their safety during emergencies is paramount. Enter Rescue Retriever, an innovative smoke detector designed to revolutionize pet rescue during fire emergencies. This groundbreaking device, equipped with a powerful strobe light, is changing the game for firefighters and pet owners alike.
The inspiration behind Rescue Retriever came from a deeply personal and professional place. Ryan Tussing, a 20-year veteran Captain of the Avondale Fire Department, shared a heartbreaking reality with his brother Rusty: “I continued to find deceased pets in fires.” This stark revelation, coupled with the staggering statistic of 40,000 pets perishing annually in fires, spurred the brothers into action.
“Being dog owners ourselves,” Rusty explains, “we felt the need to create a product that can help pet owners like us, assist firefighters in their search and rescue efforts for pets in active fire and smoke emergencies.”
The result of their dedication is Rescue Retriever, a smoke detector that does more than just alert – it guides. When smoke is detected, the device emits an intense strobe light, serving as a beacon for firefighters. This simple yet effective signal can make all the difference in those critical moments when every second counts.
“Ryan explained that if he had a signal when he arrived and began his searches, it would help him find pets faster and save the crucial time needed,” Rusty shares, highlighting the practical application of their invention.
The implementation of Rescue Retriever in homes is straightforward but potentially life-saving. Pet owners are advised to place the device where their pets typically reside or hide when scared. “We know that our pets hide under our master bedroom bed,” Rusty offers as an example. “We have a Rescue Retriever placed in that room so when firefighters come in, they will navigate to that area first from seeing the strobe for a more rapid response and rescue to our pets.”
The product’s effectiveness extends beyond the strobe light. Each Rescue Retriever comes with an exterior pet total sticker, providing an immediate alert to first responders about the presence of pets in the home. This comprehensive approach to pet safety sets Rescue Retriever apart in the market.
“We created a new category. We are PET SAFETY!” Rusty proudly declares. “We focus all our knowledge and energy in creating and developing products that help search and rescue efforts specifically for your pets in fire and smoke emergencies.”
The journey to bring Rescue Retriever to market wasn’t without its challenges. As with any product development, patience and time were crucial ingredients. “Very challenging to say the least!” Rusty admits. “We spend 90% of our time on the product itself. We want Rescue Retriever to be a product that pet owners trust and love.”
This dedication to quality and functionality has not gone unnoticed. The response from pet owners has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for this added layer of protection for their beloved animals. “They are so passionate and thankful that we created the Rescue Retriever,” Rusty shares. “We receive stories of lost pets in fires daily. Our customers have been so supportive!”
The impact of Rescue Retriever extends beyond individual homes. The product has garnered interest from diverse groups, including deaf communities, dog trainers, and K9 police units worldwide. This broad appeal underscores the universal need for enhanced pet safety measures.
Looking to the future, the team behind Rescue Retriever is far from resting on their laurels. “We have very big plans,” Rusty hints. “A pipeline of products
that will complement the Rescue Retriever in extraordinary ways.” While keeping specifics under wraps, he teases a “game changer for all pets” set for release in January 2025.
For pet owners wondering how to best utilize Rescue Retriever, Rusty emphasizes that its mere presence in a home alerts first responders to the presence of pets.
“The Rescue Retriever is not only for firefighters but all first responders,” he explains. “Police, Amazon driver, neighbor, and even strangers could see your Rescue Retriever activated just by walking by your home.”
As Rescue Retriever continues to gain traction, its creators remain focused on their ultimate goal: saving more pets’ lives. “We believe we can build such a great community around Rescue Retriever,” Rusty says, “and most of all save more pets’ lives.”
In a world where pets are family, Rescue Retriever stands as a beacon of hope, offering peace of mind to pet owners and a crucial tool for first responders. It’s more than just a product; it’s a lifeline for our furry family members in their most vulnerable moments.
Healthy Hair is a Lifestyle
FOR HAIR TIPS, TUTORIALS, AND TO SHOP OUR FAVORITES, VISIT US AT WWW JESSHALLOCK COM
TINY TYCOONS: SKIP THE TOYS, STACK THE SHINY STUFF! STACKIN WEIGHT'S GOLDEN TICKET TO TEACHING KIDS ABOUT WEALTH (AND WOWING THEM TOO!)"
When it comes to giving gifts to kids, why not think outside the toy box?
Precious metals and rare coins offer a unique and valuable alternative that can transform your little ones into tiny tycoons.
Investing in precious metals is an excellent way to save for children’s futures. These metals are not only a hedge against inflation but also a protection of wealth. Kids are naturally drawn to shiny things like gold and silver, making these gifts both captivating and educational. Imagine presenting a child with a gleaming gold coin instead
"Kids are naturally drawn to shiny things, making these gifts both exciting and educational. Imagine giving a child a shiny gold coin instead of another toy."
of another toy. Not only will it capture their imagination, but it will also hold its value over time.
Coin collecting can be a fascinating hobby for children, combining history, art, and economics. Bren Blanchette, CEO of a prominent precious metals company Stackin’ Weight Precious Metals in Gilbert, AZ, suggests, “Starting a coin collection with your child can be an enriching experience. It teaches them about different cultures, historical events, and the concept of rarity and value.” Rare coins can appreciate significantly over time, potentially turning a hobby into a valuable investment for these budding financiers.
Blanchette’s passion for precious metals was ignited during the global financial crisis of 2007/2008. While most investments plummeted, gold and silver soared, revealing their true value. “Witnessing my traditional investments tumble while precious metals thrived was a pivotal moment,” he recalls.
Whether it’s a gold coin or a starter coin collection, these gifts can spark a lifelong interest in finance and history. As Blanchette notes, “It’s about giving kids something that grows with them, both in value and in understanding. We’re nurturing the tiny tycoons of tomorrow.”
So next time you’re considering a gift, remember: sometimes the best toys don’t come from a toy box, but from a treasure chest of precious metals and rare coins.
Discover the training, dedication, and excitement behind the scenes at the Desert Dog K9 Trials.
Ruff and Ready: Elite K9 Officers
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN & KYLIE STRAWN-BADGER
Photo Credit: Frank Rau
Photo Credit: Frank Rau
Photo Credit: Frank Rau
Photo Credit: Frank Rau
Photo Credit: Frank Rau
“Thanks to our four-legged partners, the general public is keenly curious about all we do.
We make more connections and build more public trust in that one weekend than any event all year.”
The Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association (ALECA) was founded to bring together canine handlers across Arizona for the Desert Dog K9 Trials & Public Safety Expo. Now in its 21st year, this event has evolved into a significant public engagement and entertainment occasion. Through the support of sponsors, ALECA has expanded its mission to include top-tier training for law enforcement and the provision of life-saving medical and safety equipment for both canines and officers.
“The support we provide to our member agencies is vast,” says Tony Sanborn, president, Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association (ALECA). “We assist agencies in purchasing canines, paying for their training, buying medical equipment and equipment for their vehicles. And of course, we provide ongoing rigorous training of our professional law enforcement K9 teams out there. Many don’t realize it takes years in the field before officers are invited to become K9 handlers. It’s intense, rugged duty, so our ongoing training is critical.”
ALECA also, with the support of Circle K, developed the Handler Trauma Kit (HTK). Designed to be worn under the vest,
the HTK ensures handlers are always prepared for emergencies. The kit includes tools to manage common canine injuries, such as cactus needle removal and opioid ingestion. Over 400 kits have been distributed throughout Arizona, with plans for at least 120 more each year.
The HTK has gained attention for its effectiveness, leading to requests for similar kits for family pet emergencies.
Sanborn says the organization’s biggest impact on public safety and the community has been the Desert Dog K9 Trials (this year’s event will be held Oct. 26-27 at WestWorld of Scottsdale).
“Thanks to our four-legged partners, the general public is keenly curious about all we do. We make more connections and build more bonds and public trust in that one weekend than any event all year,” says Sanborn. “It is the marquee event in Arizona for public safety appreciation. We’re proud of the results and feedback received from the thousands of guests who attend each year.”
ALECAPoliceK9.com
MEET OFFICER OFFICER KEEGAN SMITH [BADGE # 100401]
As an ALECA-trained officer handler, what is the best way you believe you’ve been able to impact the community?
I like to think that Vader and I have made a positive impact on Gilbert in a few ways. First, Vader has performed exceptionally well at drug detection, and we have removed several pounds of illegal drugs from circulation within the East Valley. Vader has also led Gilbert PD officers and SWAT operators to clear several dozen homes and businesses for intruders (Vader has had nearly 300 deployments and contributed to 150 arrests). Finally, Vader and I have participated in dozens of community outreach events at schools and similar venues where we get to interact with the community to share a bit about what we do.
What is one thing you train every dog to do?
I want to train every K9 I work with to be social by default and aggressive by command. For example, when we are at community events, the K9 needs to be engaged for demonstrations and when on a call, needs to be focused on the scenario at hand to resolve it as safely and quickly as possible for all involved.
How old is the average police K9? And how old must they be to start?
Here at Gilbert, our youngest recent dog started working at around 14 months. Most dogs are usually a bit more mature at 18-24 months when they get started. Our oldest active dog is about 4.5 years old, so our whole team should have several more years together.
How many active police K9s are on duty in Gilbert?
Gilbert currently has one single-purpose drug detection dog and three dual-purpose K9s. Our single-purpose K9 is trained in drug detection discipline, while our dual-purpose K9s are trained in drug detection and patrol work.
Photo Credit: Officer D Fisher
Photo Credit: Officer K Smith
summer is POPSICLE SEASON
KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kidfriendly activity. These recipes feature kid-favorite flavors with an added taste twist. The only tricky part is waiting for them to freeze.
SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES
ingredients:
Makes 18 to 24
• 2 quarts Concord grape juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 12 whole cloves
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 3 tablespoons whole allspice
directions:
Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.
CHERRY LIMEADE POPSICLES ingredients:
Makes 18 to 24
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup lime juice
• 2 cups tart cherry juice
directions:
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat. Add the cherry juice and taste. Add additional sugar or water if needed. Let come to room temperature and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.
EVERY SATURDAY
Gilbert Farmers Market
Downtown Gilbert | 222 N. Ash St. Gilbert, AZ | 7:00 am
Gilbert Farmers Market (GFM) is located in Downtown Gilbert just west of the iconic Water Tower and is open every Saturday. With over 100 vendors year-round, the market features local, chemical-free, organic produce from many local farmers, farm fresh eggs, meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee & tea, sauces, seasonings and many other locally made artisan products.
AUGUST 9TH - 17TH
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young: A Tribute
Hale Theatre | 50 West Page Avenue, Gilbert, AZ
Our concert celebrates the iconic music that defined a generation, featuring beloved classics such as “Teach Your Children” and “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes.” Don’t miss this tribute honoring the indelible mark left by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young on the tapestry of American music.
AUGUST 9TH
Public Star Party
Riparian Preserve | 2757 E. Guadalupe Rd Gilbert, AZ | 5:30 PM
The East Valley Astronomy Club sponsors a free public star party each month at the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert. The event is scheduled on the second Friday of each month, weather permitting. The star party begins at dusk. You are encouraged to attend and observe through member’s telescopes.
Kohler Bathroom Design
Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.
2156 E Williams Field Rd Suite 114 Gilbert, AZ 85295 | 480-400-1008
CONTINUED
AUGUST 9TH
The Whole Mama
KILN - Atrium Room | 2162 E. Williamsfield Rd., Ste 111, Gilbert, AZ
Join us for a very special evening of nourishment, connection, support, education, and meditation to honor -YOU- The Whole Mama. This event is designed to provide you with the tools and support you need to thrive in all areas of your life. Register Online www.yourhealthyhappyjourney.com/ hey-mama
AUGUST 11TH
Yoga at the Barn
Beer Barn | 3150 East Ray Road, Gilbert, AZ | 9:30 AM
Come get your stretch on with us on Sunday, June 9th! Julie Norton is teaching yoga on the 2nd Sunday of every month starting at 9:30am. $25 per person, your ticket includes your choice of a draft beer, mimosa or wine glass pour. Please bring your favorite yoga mat or blanket to practice on.
AUGUST 24TH
Cocktails and Couture
Sip & Shop | 2486 s Recker Rd Suite 101, Gilbert, AZ | 4:00 PM
Join us at Sip & Shop for an evening that's all about style, sipping, and sensational fun! It's time to indulge in a little fashion therapy and cocktail creativity with our brand-new quarterly event: Cocktails and Couture!
AUGUST 25TH
Battle of the Boards
Cornhole Tournament
Hole 9 Yards | Cornhole Venue, 868 N Gilbert Rd. Suite 105, Gilbert, AZ | 1:00 PM
Join us for our first annual Battle of the Boards Cornhole Tournament! There will be prizes for the top three teams, 50/50 chance, and basket raffles! Adult beverages and food will be served during the tournament. Register here: www.fhlbraintumor.org
