Issuu

FREE SUBSCRIPTION

SPRING TRAINING COMES ALIVE / P. 32 From Uptown to Downtown, covering Chandler like the sun.

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

Inside This Week

395 CUSD kids considered suicide since July BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

REAL ESTATE................. 18 Valley housing market improving for sellers.

COMMUNITY............. 20 Chandler thespians shine in new Limelight production.

early 400 students in the Chandler Unified School District have considered killing themselves since

July. And those are the ones that district officials know about, admitting students first reach out for help to their peers before they will go to an adult. Brenda Vargas, CUSD’s director of counseling and social services, disclosed that number during a study session for the Governing Board on Feb. 8. “I want to bring everyone’s attention to that number, 395,” Vargas said. “From July

A big kickstart for girls flag football. REAL ESTATE....................................18 COMMUNITY................................ 20 BUSINESS........................................ 24 SPORTS............................................ 30 GET OUT..........................................32 CLASSIFIEDS................................... 36

of this school year till December, our school counselors and social workers completed 395 suicide assessments this year in one semester – that is, students with thoughts of suicide that in some way, shape or form, shared that they wanted to die. “That’s 395 lives.” Board President Jason Olive had requested the study session to get an update on what the district has done to address student mental health. That became a major issue for the district at the end of the 2021-22

school year after three CUSD students took their lives in a 10-day period in May. Another suicide involving a Chandler Unified student occurred at the start of this school

see SCHOOLS page 4

Chopstick challenge

Chandler plots fiscal future amid economic uncertainties BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

SPORTS......................... 30

February 19, 2023

FREE | chandlernews.com

he expansion of the Intel Ocotillo campus has filled the city’s bank accounts, as construction workers stay at Chandler hotels, eat at Chandler restaurants, and shop at Chandler stores. But it won’t go on forever. “With the construction starting to stop at the end of the calendar year … you’re going to see the one-time revenue that’s coming in from that project start to slow,” said Dawn Lang, the city’s deputy

city manager and chief financial officer. Lang said economists are having a hard time getting a read on the current economy: Are we headed toward recession? Has the Federal Reserve finally tamed inflation? Are consumers confident enough in the economy to spend money? One thing she said she is certain of: the local economy has fared better than others because of the $20 billion Intel project.

see BUDGET page 6

Tarwater Elementary’s Dual Language Mandarin Immersion Program hosted its ninth annual celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year Feb. 3 with a public event that drew hundreds of people. To prepare students for global citizenship, Tarwater’s dual language program serves more than 300 students from pre-kindergarten to sixth grade who spend half the school day in the Mandarin classroom and the other half in English. Among the Toros who joined in the fun celebration this month were fourth-graders Victoria Clark and Alexa Schicke, both 10, who tried to use chopsticks to move candy from one bowl to another. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Save More for What Matters. Ask about our current CD special.

We’re here to help. 480-855-6287 • WESTERNBANKS.COM

Member FDIC

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Valentine’s Savings Event WANTED: Are you, or someone you know, struggling with hearing loss? 36 People We need 36 people with difficulty hearing, especially in noisy situations, to evaluate the new style in digital technology from Starkey. We will perform thorough hearing consultations FREE of charge to ALL callers. We will then choose 36 qualified candidates for this program.

to try the latest digital technology in hearing aids 3 DAYS ONLY! Tuesday – Thursday • February 21st - 23rd Meet Jane Petersen, Nationally Known Hearing Instrument Specialist Jane Petersen has over 37 years of experience helping the hearing community and is one of the most successful hearing aid experts in the country. She has helped people find the best solution for their needs.

Jane understands all the consequences resulting from untreated hearing loss and has helped thousands overcome their hearing loss. She will be able to answer your hearing health questions and show you how today’s invisible hearing solutions are the best we’ve ever seen.*

Call Today! (480) 964-2386 REWARD! Candidates selected will receive tremendous savings due to their participation.

Discover Evolv AI Our best hearing instruments just got better: • Superior sound quality and clarity to hear comfortably in any environment

If your evaluation shows hearing improvement with

• Streaming eaming of phone calls, music and messages from your smartphonedirectly to your hearing aids

the new Evolv AI hearing aids, you may choose to retain them and receive up to $1,500 OFF the

• Convenient adjustments to your hearing aids without an office visit

suggested retail price! Participants who choose to keep the hearing aids will also receive FREE in‑office

• 24 hours of superior hearing on one charge*

maintenance for the life of the hearing aids.

Up to

$1500 OFF MSRP

on any set of Starkey Evolv AI hearing aids Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 2/23/2023

FREE BATTERIES for up to 5 years! With purchase of a new hearing system. Limit one voucher per customer. Expires 2/23/2023

(480) 964-2386 • www.abchearingaids.com ABC Hearing Center 7165 E University Drive, Bldg. 17, Suite 167, Mesa, AZ Most Insurances Accepted Starkey, Starkey logo and Evolv are registered trademarks of Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Evolv logo is a trademark of Starkey Laboratories, Inc.

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

NOW HIRING AUTO TECHNICIANS & MECHANICS Experienced & Entry-Level Call 480-726-8900 Or Submit Resume at huffsautomotive@yahoo.com

Se Habla Español

Your Trusted European Car Specialists We at Huffs Automotive are specialists in:

• Mercedes Benz • Land Rover • BMW • Jaguar • Porsche • Audi • Volkswagen

Serving the East Valley since 2009! Family Owned and Operated

#1 Rated Shop in the East Valley 2022

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2021 Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

VOTED #1

EAST VALLEY AUTO REPAIR

Call 95 N. Dobson Rd. • Chandler, AZ 85224 480-726-8900 • huffsautomotive.com AppFoor An intment! info@huffsautomotive.com

CITY NEWS

SCHOOLS from page 1 year. Vargas and her staff gave the board a presentation of all the steps they have taken to address the problem. One board member, however, wondered if they have gone too far and tried to do too much. “It looks like we’re doing diagnoses and treatments on our campuses, essentially providing health care for kids,” member Kurt Rohrs said. “Not disputing there’s a need. OK. “But I’m starting to wonder if there are other government agencies that specialize in this type of work. And you may not be satisfied with the way they are performing … but I’m starting to wonder if we’re really starting to get away from our primary objective, which is educating kids; teaching them to read because nobody else does that.” Rohrs was reacting to the news that the district intends to open up a Hope Institute on the Perry High School campus to serve its students in the southeastern portion of the district map. Another Hope Institute is planned for its new Chandler Care Center to serve the northern half of the district. The Hope Institute is a new model and the first in the nation. The Ohio company was one of three that won a bid to provide mental health services to CUSD students. As planned, students would be able to see a professional within 48 hours. Vargas said some patients currently wait between six-to-eight weeks to see a mental health professional. She said at some places you must wait close to 12 weeks. “I would be remiss if I didn’t share that Phoenix Children’s and other partners are watching closely in order to replicate this model statewide,” Vargas said. Vargas responded to Rohrs’ question by pointing out that if a student is in crisis, it is going to be impossible to teach them anything until that is addressed. “We know what’s not in our wheelhouse,” said Dr. Craig Gilbert, the district’s associate superintendent of preK12 educational services. “We know what we feel we’re not experts in, and so we’re bringing the experts in, so that we can have a comprehensive care plan from intervention to post-vention. “That is why it was so important that we did the RFP that we did, because

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

the student partnerships. “They’ve come a long way since we came here to first speak in June, and I’m excited to see where it goes.” Her group, in partnership with the Valley Interfaith Project, is planning an outreach event at 6:30 p.m., March 13 at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church. They invited district officials to be part of it. Last week, the state House Education Committee unanimously approved a bill sponsored by Rep.Travis Grantham, R-Gilbert, that would give school districts the authority to create or by an app that would enable students to anonyState Rep. Travis Grantham won House Education ap- mously report safety issues proval of a bill that would enable school districts to cre- ranging from self-harm to ate an app that would offer 24/7 help to parents and threats against students students who are experiencing a mental health crisis or and receive anonymous know of a student who is. (Arizona Legislature) clinical support 24/7. there were gaps that we needed to make The app also would prosure that we’re addressing.” vide students and parents with resourcThe answer did not seem to sway es on mental health, bullying and subRohrs. stance abuse issues. It does not require Later, during the regular board meet- districts to provide such an app but ing, the members were asked to approve rather clears any administrative hurdles a memorandum of understanding with that might be preventing one from being Paper Cranes Healthcare LLC, another offered, Grantham stressed. community partner to which district ofThis is one of three bills Grantham is ficials could refer students when need- sponsoring as the result of his work last ed. fall as co-chair of a special House task Rohrs again expressed misgivings, force created to address teen mental stating: health issues in the state, “We’re an educational institution, Former House Speaker Rusty Bowers we’re not a healthcare institution. And created the panel to “take a substantive we’re walking too far down the path look into the issues and causes affecting here, we’re starting to lose focus on what teen mental health, including substance our primary goal is, which is to educate abuse, depression, and suicide, and kids.” to identify potential solutions and imRohrs abstained in the voting as the provements.” measure passed with the support of the After hearing testimony from parents four other board members. of drug-addicted students and suicide Chandler High senior Riana Alexan- victims, students, and a variety of eduder, who is the co-founder and president cation, mental health and law enforceof Arizona Students for Mental Health, ment experts, the panel identified 23 said she was happy with the presenta- specific goals and recommendations for tion. Her group has been highly critical addressing the steady rise of students in of the district since forming last sum- crisis as well as rising rates of attempted mer. and completed suicides by children and “I think the improvements that the teens and drug addiction. board and the district is putting on is Grantham implored the panel to pass very exciting,” she said after the presensee SCHOOLS page 5 tation. “I’m excited to see, mostly about

The Chandler Arizonan is published every Sunday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Chandler. To find out where you can pick up a free copy of The Chandler Arizonan, please visit www.ChandlerNews.com.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Main Number 480-898-6500 Advertising 480-898-5624 Circulation Service 480-898-5641 Chandler Arizonan 1900 W. Broadway Road Tempe, AZ 85282 Publisher Steve T. Strickbine Vice President Michael Hiatt

ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Display Advertising 480-898-6309 Classifieds/Inside Sales TJ Higgins | 480-898-5902 | tjhiggins@TimesLocalMedia.com Steve Insalaco | 480-898-5635 | sinsalaco@TimesLocalMedia.com Director of National Advertising Zac Reynolds | 480-898-5603 | zac@TimesLocalMedia.com

NEWS DEPARTMENT Executive Editor Paul Maryniak | 480-898-5631 | pmaryniak@TimesLocalMedia.com Reporter Ken Sain | 480-898-6825 | ksain@TimesLocalMedia.com Photographer David Minton | dmonton@TimesLocalMedia.com Production/Design Supervisor Shannon Mead | smead@TimesLocalMedia.com Graphic Designer Tonya Mildenberg | tmildenberg@TimesLocalMedia.com Circulation Director Aaron Kolodny | aaron@phoenix.org Distribution Manager Brian Juhl | brian@TimesLocalMedia.com Chandler Arizonan is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation company owned and operated by Times Media Group. The public is limited to one copy per reader. For circulation services, please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@phoenix.org.

To Start or Stop delivery of the paper, please visit https://timespublications.com/phoenix/ or call 480-898-7901 To receive your free online subscription, please visit: https://www.chandlernews.com/digital_editions/ The content of any advertisements are the sole responsibility of the advertiser. The Chandler Arizonan assumes no responsibility for the claims of any advertisement.© 2023 Strickbine Publishing, Inc.

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

SCHOOLS from page 4 along for a full House vote the app bill, citing the death by suicide a few days earlier of a female Gilbert high school sophomore. “We had an incident in my own district just a couple days ago where a young woman (died by) suicide and it set the school in a crisis mode,” Grantham told the committee. “And I’m sure it’s affected a lot of her friends and the people who knew her. And every time a student or a young person does that, we lose tremendously and it’s devastating. I “ can’t tell you that this legislation will change the social aspect of the family or whatever might be weighing on these people that are choosing to go down this road or having mental health issues, but at least it provides the opportunity for help to be there at the push of a button.” Grantham has two other bills, HB2600 and HB2601, that go well beyond the measure approved last week. One would create a Teen Mental Health Program within the state Department of Health Services and the other would provide a so far unspecified amount of funding. Those measures have not yet been assigned for a hearing yet. The program would provide funding for school districts and nonprofits for training on mental health first aid, youth resiliency and substance abuse for staff, parents and peers. It also would provide school districts with funding to create the app that received committee approval last week and it would require the Health Services Department to make an annual report on projects it funded and the outcomes they achieved.

During the task force’s final meeting in December, Grantham warned his panel colleagues “Everybody now is going to have to be patient and be happy with any victories we get out of these recommendations.” “And I’ll do my best to put as much of this forward as I can with other members’ help because I can’t do it all by myself,” he said at the time. “And I just want you all to know that your work here matters and even something in here is the most important thing to you or this group doesn’t happen this year, it might very well happen next.” When the task force last December released its recommendations, co-chair and now-former Rep. Joanne Osborne, R-Goodyear, said the crisis “is an allhands-on-deck.” Osborne said that finding solutions needs the involvement of parents, medical experts and educators, law enforcement and teens themselves. She pointed to the 400-page report the committee is issuing and ticked off a variety of actions that need to be taken not just on a governmental level but in homes and schools as well by businesses. “Those are the things that we need to be doing. There’s so many great people that are doing it but we need more of them to do it,” she said. Osborne appeared before the Education Committee last week to voice her support for the app bill and suggested the Legislature can go further by providing funding for its development by districts, using money from Arizona’s $14.5 million settlement with Juul for deceptive marketing practices in pushing young people to use vaping products. Arizonan Executive Editor Paul Maryniak contributed to this report.

CUSTOM BLINDS, SHADES, SHUTTERS & DRAPERY

BUY ONE GET ONE

% OFF

on Custom Blinds, Shades & Drapery

CALL TO SCHEDULE FREE in-home design consultation with no obligation!

(000) 560-1022 000-0000 (855)

WE DESIGN, WE MEASURE, WE INSTALL, YOU RELAX!® *Offer valid on 3 Day Blinds brand products only, excluding shutters and special orders. Buy 1 qualifying window covering and receive the 2nd qualifying window covering of equal or lesser value at 50% off! Offer excludes installation, sales tax, shipping and handling. Not valid on previous purchases or with any other offer or discount. Offer Code BGXB. Expires 12/31/23. State Contractor and Home Improvement Licenses: Arizona 321056. California 1005986. Connecticut HIC.0644950. New Jersey 13VH09390200. Oregon 209181. Pennsylvania PA107656. Tennessee 10020. Washington 3DAYBDB842KS. County Licenses: Nassau County, NY H01073101. Rockland County, NY H-12401-34-00-00. Licensed through Great Windows Services, LLC: Virginia 2705172678. West Virginia WV061238. Various City Licenses Available Upon Request. © 2023 3 Day Blinds LLC. BOGO50_202301_Yellow_3DayBlinds_Newspaper_Ads_4.89x10.indd 1

12/20/22 10:11 AM

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

BUDGET from page 1 Lang and Budget Director Matt Dunbar led a two-hour budget workshop with members of the City Council on Feb. 9, updating members on current budget projections and asked for guidance as they continue to work on the budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year. The one theme is this year’s budget is “challenging.” The main reason why is the unknown of what state Legislature will do and how will that impact the budget. More than half of the Legislature is new, with 46 of the 90 seats being held by first-time legislators. Lawmakers are expected to consider major changes to two local taxes that could cost the city $25 million annually. Those levies involve food for home consumption (grocery) and residential rental taxes. The city gets about $14 million a year from the grocery tax and $11 million annually from rental properties. They are not the only proposals that could mean fewer tax dollars for the city. Gov. Katie Hobbs has proposed to exempt hygiene products from taxes, which would cost the city another $2

Chandler city administration presented this quick overview of the challenges it faces in the uncertain economy. (City of Chandler) million. Another unknown is the fate of Proposition 400’s extension of the half-cent gas tax. The county has already stopped some construction projects because it doesn’t know if funding for them will continue past 2025. A state Senate committee last week killed a bill to ask voters in 2024 to approve an extension of the tax but the measure could be revived later in the legislative session.

With dining this good, your friends may show up at lunchtime and stay through dinner.

At The Village at Ocotillo senior living community, the reviews for our restaurant-style dining are in, and they range from wow! to deeeelicious! Your taste buds will never be bored!

Lunch & Learn | Wed., March 8th • 1:00pm Join us for an informative presentation on senior. Afterwards, take a tour of our community and enjoy a delicious lunch. To RSVP, please call 480.400.8687.

CARF-ACCREDITED IN DEPEN DENT & ASSISTED LIVING

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

990 West Ocotillo Road • Chandler • 480.400.8687 TheVillageatOcotillo.com

If the tax is not renewed, the city may have to pay more for some traffic improvements that are currently paid for by the tax, which has financed hundreds of projects throughout the Valley. One more unknown that Lang and Dunbar warned council about is the state’s conversion to a corporate flat tax rate. It will be two years before the city notices a difference, but that could potentially cost the city $5 million annually. Another complicating factor is inflation. It has been both a boom and a bust for the city. Residents paying higher prices mean that the city is collecting more tax dollars. However, all the city’s costs have increased and, in some cases, dramatically. The biggest hit has been to the capital improvement, The city faces the choice of dipping into the General Fund to cover overruns or delaying projects that they promised to voters in the bond election. Despite the end of the construction at Intel, ongoing inflation and the possible changes to local taxing authority that may cost the city millions, Lang and Dunbar remained mostly upbeat about where the city stands financially. “There’s so many wonderful things happening,” Lang said. “A lot of excitement in departments.” As part of its budget process the city reaches out to its residents, seeking their feedback to help guide decisions. Last year, only 214 residents filled out a survey. This year city staff increased its outreach efforts, which resulted in more than 1,300 responses. The survey shows that most residents are happy with how the city is operating, Lang said. She pointed to 92% of respon-

dents who said they had either a good or very good quality of life and 70% who either agreed or strongly agreed that there is a good return on their tax dollars. Another 80% said they were either satisfied or very satisfied with overall city services. The city’s department heads are currently working on their budgets and Lang told council members that they will seek a combined budget increase of $34.5 million, mostly to cover rising costs. A little more than $20 million is just to maintain existing services. Another $11 million would be used to enhance existing services whiley $3.4 million would be for new services. They gave the council five broad spending goals. Listed by priority, staff identified those goals as: 1. Continue to reduce unpaid debt to the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System for police and fire pensions; 2. Reinvest in existing infrastructure, neighborhoods and systems; 3. Operating and capital spending to move strategic goals; 4. Maintain reserves to meet financial policies; and 5. New initiatives and capital, including sustainability. There was some debate over the reserves question. “The Legislature is looking at our balance sheets and they’re saying you got too much money,” said Councilman Mark Stewart. “And that’s why they’re coming after this. They know that we are sitting on incredible reserves.” The city maintains at least 15% of its annual maintenance and operations budget as a rainy day fund. In addition, it also has a $10 million stabilization fund to to give the council time to adjust if there is a sudden financial shock, like losing the grocery or residential rental taxes. “Even during the COVID recession, we never had a dip into the contingency plan, we never had to dip into the 10%, the 10 million either,” Stewart said. “So that’s my concern is that they’re seeing us in this position. And they’re saying, ‘Okay, it’s time for you to get that money back.’” Last year the city made a one-time payment of $50 million toward its PSPRS debt. That leaves the city’s current obligation at about $86 million. By continu-

see BUDGET page 9

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Chandler Council addresses how it conducts business BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

uring December’s Chandler City Council meeting, there was a moment when the body didn’t know what to do. Council was in the process of listening to residents who wanted to speak about a proposed proclamation opposing an affordable housing project in South Chandler. Vice Mayor Terry Roe, who was attending his last full regular meeting as a member of the body, called for the question. Mayor Kevin Hartke said they still had six speakers to hear. Councilman Matt Orlando said he couldn’t do that, because there was no motion on the table to extend the comment period. Roe persisted. Hartke looked to City Attorney Kelly Schwab for guidance. Schwab told Council that she had concerns about hearing from some speakers, but not allowing others to speak. Roe then made a motion to approve the

proclamation so that he could then call for the question. Eventually, the remaining speakers were allowed to address the body and Council voted unanimously in favor of the proclamation. There are laws that dictate some of the ways that Council must do its work. But, they don’t cover everything. Council gets to set its own rules for how it operates, and those rules have not been updated in more than a dozen years. Council met in a two-hour work session Feb. 6 to change that. A four-person subcommittee has been meeting since December to look at the body’s rules and suggest changes. “There’s a lot of things that change in 14 years’ time, 12 years’ time in terms of technology,” said City Manager Joshua Wright. “So a lot of these things were also an opportunity to update for more modern times and (update) these policies to reflect the business environment we’re in today.”

27TH ANNUAL GREATER PHOENIX JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL

2023 FILM FESTIVAL STARRING A LINEUP OF OUTSTANDING FILMS SELECTED FROM COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD.

The biggest change regulates how Council members use staff resources. The current rules are very vague, Hartke said. The proposed rules would force Council members to get the approval of a majority of the body before they could use staff for more than four hours for a project. The most debated issue was the timing for the distribution of meeting agendas. Councilman Mark Stewart said multiple times that he’s been trying for five years to get the agenda earlier so that each member has time to look at it in detail. The city posts the agenda for its Monday meetings usually about 5 p.m. Thursdays. Wright, said the agenda is mostly put together on Tuesdays, but may be missing many of the supporting documents that are usually attached. Council members discussed getting earlier access to that version or moving the deadline up so that it was complete at least a week before the meeting. But they did not reach consensus on the issue and agreed to talk about it more in the future. A couple of changes would impact the public. First is addressing the council. Council members plan to codify their current practice of allowing scheduled speakers to address the body before dealing with the consent agenda. Unscheduled public speakers would be allowed to make remarks after the consent agenda is voted on. The timing of the agenda release could also impact the public, especially citizens who might not be able to have an

item meet the earlier deadline. In other action, members were briefed on the new HUD-VASH program from the U.S. departments of Housing and Urban Development and Veterans Affairs. It’s designed to help get homeless veterans off the street and into safe housing. It’s a voucher program and the City of Chandler was awarded 10 vouchers. Before the city can assist in finding housing for an unsheltered veteran, it must get approval from the VA. Once approved, the veteran can rent a home from private landlords who sign up for the program with the federal government paying a percentage of the rent. The only other item on the Feb. 6 agenda that the Council spent time on was the installation of two 1,000-gallon propane tanks at Queen Creek Road and Hamilton Street. Stewart said he wanted to make sure this would be safe since there are residential neighborhoods close by. Derek Horn, the developmental services director, assured him it would be. The request was made by Horsepower Automotive Group, which moved into a new facility in Chandler. The company manufactures after-market accessories for trucks and SUVs and said it needs large quantities of propane for burners to cure the powder finish it uses for coatings on its products. Horn said the tanks are more than 1,000 feet from any home and will be surrounded by a block wall. They will also be surrounded by barriers to guard against any vehicle that heads in their direction. The propane tanks were approved during the Feb. 9 Council meeting.

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Several bills now winding their way through the state Legislature would impact Chandler’s revenue streams if they become law. (City of Chandler)

BUDGET from page 6 ing to get that debt down to just the annual contribution, the city frees up tax dollars to use in its general fund. So the members said that will continue to be a priority. But the members all agree all five options that city staff presented are important and they want to find a way to

address each. The city’s next budget workshop is scheduled for March 23. It will be followed by the all-day briefing as the budget is presented on April 28. The council is scheduled to discuss amendment on May 11, tentatively adopt it on May 25 and then hold a public hearing and formal adoption on June 15. On June 29 it will adopt its tax levy.

FREE

BEFORE

AFTER

ESTIMATES

SPECIALIZING IN TILE ROOF UNDERLAYMENT REPLACEMENTS AND REPAIRS We Also Do: • Shingle Roofs • Flat Roofs

SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS

• Foam Roofs • Elastomeric/Heat Reflective Coatings

hornandsonsroofing.com

ROC #334716

602.432.0713

George Horn, Owner • hornandsonsroofing@gmail.com

Credit cards accepted • Licensed, Bonded, Insured • Over 50 years experience • Family owned and operated

ROOF INSPECTIONS

10% OFF FULL REPLACEMENT with this ad

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

State Senate eyes curbs on local zoning rules BY BOB CHRISTIE Capitol Media Services

rizona cities and towns would be required to allow new homes, duplexes and triplexes on very small lots in residential areas and allow homeowners to add backyard casitas, known as auxiliary dwelling units, to their properties under a wide-ranging proposal that would eliminate many local zoning laws across the state. SB 1117, approved by the Senate Commerce Committee on a 5-2 vote on Wednesday, also would ban cities from enforcing design standards, eliminate off-street parking requirements, and override some height restrictions. It also requires cities with light rail to allow apartments to be built on any commercially zoned property within two miles of the rail line and bypasses current requirements that local planning boards review new proposals and fast-tracks city approvals. Sen. Steve Kaiser of Phoenix touted his measure as one way to help solve the state’s housing crisis by removing zoning rules and speeding up approval processes that housing advocates and apartment developers say have hamstrung development. He has been pushing for an overhaul of zoning laws for a year. Some Democratic lawmakers on the panel noted, however, that Kaiser’s proposal requires no affordable housing actually be built. And cities and towns objected to having their ability to control local zoning taken away. “This is basically a nuclear option to allow a whole bunch of housing but not saying it has to be affordable housing,’’ said Frank Cassidy, who represents the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. “It is just a ‘trickle down’ argument for that.’’ The plan is backed by developers of homes and apartments as well as urban renewal advocacy groups. “The fact of the matter is, we have zoned out starter homes, that is just a fact,’’ Spencer Kamps of the Homebuilders Association of Central Arizona told Committee members. This bill, he said, would allow developers to produce “starter homes.’’

“We have zoned out accessory dwelling units,’’ Kamps continued. “We’ve zoned out single occupancy dwelling units. They don’t exist. You can’t build them. This bill allows the triplexes, duplexes, what we call the missing middle. This bill allows that to happen.’’ The measure is being pushed as a needed solution to a huge lack of housing supply in Arizona that has seen apartment rents and home costs soar. Jake Hinman of the Arizona Multihousing Association cited state Housing Department figures that show Arizona is short 270,000 housing units. He said the proposal would cut local zoning regulation and open the floodgates to new building. He said the big issue is “NIMBY-ism,’’ the fight that erupts when local residents take a “not in my backyard’’ approach, object to a new project and end up delaying or killing it outright. “Projects that used to take six months to be approved are taking years,’’ Hinman said. “The intensity grows with every aspect, whether it’s comments about traffic, comments about crime, comments about property values, all of these things we know not to be true, but yet they poison the well.’’ He and members of the Senate committee referenced emails they received from local community activists who said Kaiser’s bill would destroy the character of their neighborhoods. Indeed, cities and town are fighting the measure, with the League of Arizona Cities and Towns’ Cassidy and elected officials from the towns of Paradise Valley and Gilbert testifying against it. Paradise Valley council member Anna Thomasson said overruling local zoning rules will have wide-ranging effects, including forcing change to local character. “We think it’s important to hang on to the culture of all Arizona communities, including Paradise Valley, that we retain the right to have our own zoning, and to have our own determination, public process involvement,’’ she said.

see HOUSING page 13

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

5 of 6 local lawmakers voted to waive school spending cap BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

ith just weeks to go, the state Legislature two weeks ago agreed to allow school districts across Arizona to spend the money this academic year that they already have. The move spared Chandler Unified, Kyrene and Tempe Union school districts from having to cut millions from their planned expenditures during the last two months of the current school year. At stake if the waiver had not been approved was $62.3 million for Chandler Unified, $20 million for Kyrene and $17 million for Tempe Union. Unlike most legislative districts in the East Valley, the delegation representing northern and western Chandler – Sen. Mitzi Epstein and Reps. Patty Contreras and Stacey Travers – was solidly behind the waiver. But in LD 13, which covers south Chandler, Republican Sen. J.D. Mesnard and Democratic Rep. Jennifer Pawlik voted for the waiver by Republican Rep. Liz Harris voted against it. Republican opponents of lifting the cap said schools needed more accountability before the waiver should be granted, Mesa Rep. Justin Heap said student funding has nearly doubled in the last decade. “So the question needs to be asked: What has Arizona received for its investment in education?’’ he asked. “And what we’ve received is failing schools where less than a third of our students are proficient in math and reading.’’ Scottsdale Rep. Alexander Kolodin said the state spends “more per pupil than most other countries in the world, with vastly superior results,’’ though he did not mention multiple studies that show Arizona is at or near the bottom in spending per student among all the states. Kolodin said he believes that money is still being wasted. “Where does the money go?’’ he asked. “Before we just keep throwing more money at this problem we need systemic reforms in terms of transparency and accountability to make sure that the mon-

ey that we are intending to put into the classroom and give to teachers and students to facilitate education ... actually gets there.’’ State Auditor General Lindsey Perry said that does not paint the whole picture of spending effectively going into the classroom. She said student support, consisting of counselors, audiologists, speech pathologists, nurses, social workers and attendance services at up another 9.1% of every dollar. There also was 5.8% for instructional support, defined as librarians, teacher training, curriculum development and instruction-related technology services. That brought what Perry considers total classroom spending up to 70.2% for the most recent year, versus 69.3% for the prior year. Rep. Rachel Jones, R-Tucson, who called it “a mismanagement issue,” did not dispute that the measure authorizes schools to use the nearly $1.4 billion that was appropriated to them last legislative session. “I wasn’t part of the Legislature last year who promised that money,’’ Jones said, saying she’s “not comfortable’’ with that decision. That logic drew a rebuke from Rep. David Cook, R-Globe, who has championed the waiver vote. “We all took an oath at the beginning of this session to uphold the Constitution,’’ he said. And Cook said approving a budget is “the No. 1 constitutional duty’’ of the Legislature. “This money was in that budget,’’ he said. Approval of the spending cap waiver only takes care of current spending. Schools could find themselves in the same position for the next academic year. At the root of the issue is a 1980 voter-approved constitutional measure which capped K-12 spending at current levels, with annual adjustments based on student growth and inflation. The measure does allow lawmakers to approve a one-year override with a two-

see SPENDING page 12

*this is a paid advertisement*

WARNING!

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN TREATMENTS NOT WORKING!! Mesa, AZ – When it comes to chronic pain and/ or neuropathy, the most common doctor-prescribed treatment is drugs like Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin. The problem with antidepressants or anti-seizure medications like these is that they offer purely symptomatic relief, as opposed to targeting and treating the root of the problem. Worse, these drugs often trigger an onset of uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes harmful side effects. The only way to effectively treat chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is by targeting the source, which is the result of nerve damage owing to inadequate blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. This often causes weakness, numbness, tingling, pain, and balance problems. A lack of nutrients causes the nerves to degenerate – an insidious and often painful process.

cannot survive, and thus, 1. Finding the underlying cause The number of treatments slowly die. This leads to 2. Determining the extent of required varies from patient those painful and frustrating the nerve damage (above to patient, and can only be following an consequences we were talking 95% nerve loss is rarely determined in-depth neurological and about earlier, like weakness, treatable) numbness, tingling, balance 3. The amount of treatment vascular examination. As long as issues, and perhaps even a required for the patient’s you have less than 95% nerve damage, there is hope! burning sensation. unique condition The drugs your doctor might prescribe will temporarily conceal the problems, putting a “Band-Aid” over a situation that will only continue to deteriorate without further action. Thankfully, Mesa is the birthplace of a brandnew facility that sheds new light on this pressing problem of peripheral neuropathy and chronic pain. The company is trailblazing the medical industry by replacing outdated drugs and symptomatic reprieves with an advanced machine that targets the root of the problem at hand.

As displayed in figure 1 above, Effective neuropathy treatment the nerves are surrounded relies on the following three by diseased, withered blood factors: vessels. A lack of sufficient nutrients means the nerves

Aspen Medical in Mesa, Aspen Medical begins by analyzing AZ uses a state-of-the-art the extent of the nerve damage – electric cell signaling a complimentary service for systems worth $100,000.00. your friends and family. Each exam This ground-breaking comprises a detailed sensory treatment is engineered evaluation, extensive peripheral to achieve the following, vascular testing, and accompanied by advanced comprehensive analysis of neuropathy diagnostics and a findings. basic skin biopsy to Aspen Medical will be offering this accurately analyze results: free chronic pain and neuropathy 1. Increases blood flow 2. Stimulates and strengthens severity evaluation will be available until February 28th, small fiber nerves 2023. Call (480) 274-3157 to 3. Improves brain-based pain make an appointment. The treatment works by delivering energy to the affected area(s) at varying Due to our very busy office wavelengths, from low- to schedule, we are limiting this offer middle-frequency signals, to the first 10 c allers. YOU DO NOT while also using HAVE TO SUFFER ANOTHER Amplitude Modulated (AM) MINUTE, CALL (480) 274-3157… and Frequency Modulated NOW!! (FM) signaling. It’s completely painless! THE GREAT NEWS IS THAT THIS TREATMENT IS COVERED BY MEDICARE, MEDICAID, AND MOST INSURANCES!! Depending on your coverage, your peripheral neuropathy treatment could cost almost nothing – or be absolutely free.

We are extremely busy, so we are unavailable, please leave a voice message and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Aspen Medical 4540 E. Baseline Rd., Suite 119 Mesa, AZ, 85206

*(480) 274-3157*

480-274-3157 4540 E Baseline Rd., Suite 119 Mesa Az 85206

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

SPENDING from page 11 thirds vote. And that has occurred without incident in prior years. What happened this school year is a convergence of two factors. First, state lawmakers made a massive investment of new dollars, including making up for years during the last recession when schools did not get all the funds to which they were entitled. Second, the COVID outbreak resulted in a departure of some children from school in prior years. The result is that schools were authorized to spend nearly $7.8 billion this current academic year. But the constitutional spending cap sits at $6.4 billion. Complicating matters is that former Gov. Doug Ducey, to get Democrat votes for his budget last year, promised to call a special session to waive the cap. That never materialized before Ducey left office at the end of the year. And the constitution says if the cap isn’t waived by March 1, schools need to cut an estimated 17% of their annual budgets -and do it in just the four months remaining in this academic year.

State schools chief Tom Horne, a Republican, warned that would force many schools to close. Rep. Lydia Hernandez, D-Phoenix, who has served on the school board of the Cartwright Elementary School District, said she agrees with some of the Republicans that there needs to be “systemic reform’’ of education funding. “I, for one, am not supportive of continuing to throw millions of dollars at an issue without fixing it,’’ she said. But Hernandez said simply denying needed funds to schools in the middle of the academic year, as the failure of this measure would do, is not the answer. “Until we fully invest and do our due diligence -- and I’m talking about real investment, critical analysis in fixing this problem -- we’re not going to find that solution,’’ she said. “Closing schools is not the answer.’’ There is an alternative to lawmakers having to vote on waivers of the education expenditure limit every year: rescind or at least sharply alter the 1980 cap. But that would require voter approval, with the next general election not until November 2024.

5 OFF ADMISSION

12PM-3PM SUNDAY ONLY

3 Chandler students top regional Brain Bee ARIZONAN NEWS STAFF

hree Chandler students were the top three finishers in Midwestern University’s the 24th Annual Arizona Regional Brain Bee, an educational competition similar to a spelling bee that focuses on neuroscience. Presented in partnership with the BHHS Legacy Foundation. the bee featured 45 students from 15 Valley high schools testing their knowledge of the human brain and how it governs human behavior. They also were asked about the science that helps medical professionals understand brain function over the 19 rounds of questions. The top three Brain Bee finishers, in order, were Baochan Fan of Hamilton High School, last year’s runner-up Catherine McInnes and Pranati Chintada. Catherine and Pranati are both BASIS Chandler students. Baochan is now eligible to compete at the 2023 U.S. National Brain Bee at

the University of California, Irvine, this spring, with Midwestern offsetting the travel, hotel, and food costs up to $2,000. BASIS Chandler was recognized as the overall highest-scoring team for the event. Dr. Douglas Jones, associate professor of pharmacology at the Midwestern University College of Graduate Studies, served as the faculty academic director. Midwestern University student volunteers served as judges, question readers, timers, and scorekeepers at all stages of the event. Questions ran the gamut from identifying physical features of the brain itself to naming brain disorders and diseases to surgical and medical practices that modify neural behaviors. The Arizona Regional Brain Bee is by BHHS Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit whose philanthropic mission is to enhance the quality of life and health of those it serves.

SAT 9-5, SUN 9-3

MARCH 4 & 5

GIVEAWAYS AND SPECIAL OFFERS! 1572 West Ocotillo Road, San Tan Valley, AZ

TICKETS SOLD AT THE DOOR ONLY

2-Day admission $15 Children under 12: Free Discounts for Veterans and 55+

The top three finishers in Midwestern University’s 24th annual Arizona Brain Bee were, from left: Pranati Chintada, Catherine McInees and Baochan Fan. (Special to the Arizonan)

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak

at 480-898-5631 or pmaryniak@ TimesLocalMedia.com

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Chandler among nation’s worse for skin health BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

alley of the Sun residents need water to survive. However, that combination of sun and water is doing a number on their skin. HouseFresh, an indoor air quality company, released a survey of the worst cities in the U.S. for skin care. Chandler ranked third worst. Leading the way was Scottsdale and five Valley cities ranked in the dubious top 10. Experts are blaming the water and sun. “Let’s not kid ourselves, OK?,” said Valley plastic surgeon Dr. Farhan Taghizadeh. “The water is only maybe 10-to-20% of the problem. The majority of the problem is the high UV (ultraviolet) index. “And the way that the sun hits the skin in this Valley, and that’s a big component of it. The failure to protect the skin against the sun … is the number one issue that we see here.” The Valley got negative marks for the high amount of “hard” water people use to drink, shower and wash clothes with. So what is hard water? “Hard water is caused from water naturally picking up minerals, like calcium and magnesium, along its journey to the drinking water treatment plants,” said Chris Connor, utility regulatory affairs senior manager for the City of Chandler. “Because the surface water that the Valley cities use travels hundreds, sometimes thousands of miles, it gives the water ample opportunity to pick up minerals along the way. Groundwater can also pick up minerals from the rock formations in the aquifer.” Those minerals in the water can cause problems. “When hard water is used for shower-

HOUSING from page 10 The proposed law does not override existing rules adopted by planned communities known as CC&Rs. That means many developments with homeowner associations could continue to maintain design standards and bar backyard casitas as extra housing that could be separately rented. Kaiser pointed to the elimination of city-adopted design standards as a ma-

ing and bathing, the minerals can react with soap and body wash to form a film on the skin called soap scum,” said John Schaff, a dermatologist in Ahwatukee. “This can lead to dry, itchy skin, as well as eczema and acne.” So what can residents do about it? Schaff said getting a water softener that removes those minerals from the water is a good first step. He also suggested buying a shower filter that removes minerals and chlorine from the water and using soap and body wash, specifically formulated for use with hard water. Also, use a moisturizer to help hydrate and smooth itchy skin.” However, Taghizadeh said people should be careful about the water softening system they buy. “This is my own assessment,” he said. “Traditional water softeners are not adequate for the type of water that we have here. And there are advanced systems that will remove more of the harsher eljor point, at least for him. He cited historic districts in Phoenix where every home is different and “doesn’t look like cookie cutter.’’ “Imagine what we could have if we had variety, if we didn’t have government-controlled design review standards that sound like Soviet-era construction of housing,’’ Kaiser said. “We need to let the free market, the architects, the designers, and the buyers decide what is going to be good.’’

ements in the water to help improve the tone and texture of the skin.” Hard water is only about a fifth of the problem. Pollution also plays a role, Taghizadeh said. But the biggest culprit is the excessive sunshine the Valley gets.

“So there’s two different components of sunlight, there’s UVB and UVA,” Taghizadeh said. “The UVB does more of the surface damage. That’s where people get the redness they get, the sunburn and some of that, but it’s the UVA that actually goes deep into the skin and causes damage to the DNA.” It can lead to skin cancer. It also makes people look older because the sunlight does significant damage to the cells that make collagen, which is a protein in skin. He said skin begins to look weathered because the collagen is not being replaced. “So you have pollution, you have sunlight, and then you have the water as sort of the three components that really mandate that people invest more in their skin,” Taghizadeh said. “And unfortunately, a lot of people don’t. And that’s why Phoenix, and especially this part of the Southwest, tends to have very poor scores as it relates to skin care.”

Enrolling Now!

Business Etiquette Workshop for the Professional Your social skills are more important than ever; they are critical to your professional success.

Our workshop is for men and women who want to learn how to be more polished, poised, and confident in various social and professional situations. Certified Etiquette Instructor, SueAnn Brown, will offer a helpful, one-day etiquette workshop designed for business professionals, small business owners, executives, university students, entrepreneurs, and fundraisers.

Topics covered will include: Why a professional image is crucial to your success, the art of a business meal and business meeting protocol, professional office etiquette, professional ways to dress, learning the art of small talk, networking, digital etiquette and more.

March 18 • 10am-3pm Orange Tree Golf Resort in Scottsdale, AZ

$495 per person and includes an Etiquette training manual, four-course lunch, and a certificate of completion. Advanced registration is required.

www.itsallaboutetiquette.com • 480-510-6346

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

State schools chief steps up initiative for armed personnel on campuses

PICK YOUR TERM &

SEE YOUR SAVINGS GROW

BY PAUL MARYNIAK Arizonan Executive Editor

he former second in command of the Phoenix Police Department is now heading the state schools chief’s initiative to place armed officers or security personnel on all school campuses. Arizona Superintendent of Public Schools Tom Horne last week announced that Michael Kurtenbach will be his director of school safety and that another former Phoenix Police Commander Allen Smith will be his assistant director. As executive chief of the Phoenix force, Kurtenbach was a familiar face at City Council hearings in 2021 and early 2022 as he reported on the difficulties Phoenix Police were encountering in maintaining a sufficient number of patrol officers in the face of low recruitment results and a high rate of department retirements and resignations. Former Police Chief Geri Williams last year summer pulled Kurtenbach out of that position, saying that because she was retiring, she wanted her successor to name his own person for the job. Kurtenbach subsequently retired. “Every school should have a law enforcement officer to protect students and staff, and this should be accomplished on an urgent basis,“ Horne said in a Feb. 8 release. “Delay in implementing this goal could leave schools more vulnerable to a tragic catastrophe.“ Horne also indicated that he won’t look favorably on school districts that request public safety grants for measures that do not include an armed officer or security personnel. Such requests could involve more counselors or related personnel. “Schools that currently have no armed presence yet submit grants applications that do not request an officer will not

7-MONTH CD

4.03

APY1

Rate with qualifying Bell account, 3.83% APY with non-qualifying accounts. 2

14-MONTH CD

4.00%

APY1

Rate with qualifying Bell account, 3.80% APY with non-qualifying accounts. 2

21-MONTH CD

4.00%

APY1

Rate with qualifying Bell account, 3.80% APY with non-qualifying accounts. 2

1850 E. Northrup Blvd. | Suite 150 Chandler | 480.339.8650 Annual percentage yield (APY) effective as of Dec. 22, 2022. $500 minimum balance required to earn the disclosed APY. Interest on the 14-month and 21-month certificates of deposit (CDs) will be compounded and credited annually and at maturity. Interest on the 7-month CD will be compounded and credited at maturity. There may be a penalty for early withdrawal. 2 Requirement to qualify for a relationship rate: an individual must have personal ownership in an open Bell personal checking account (America’s Best Checking, America’s Best Interest Checking, America’s Best Premier Interest Checking) or personal premier money market savings (Premier Money Market Savings, Premier Money Market Savings Plus). 1

MICHAEL KURTENBACH receive a recommendation from this department to the State Board of Education,” he said. Horne said that while “I am a longtime supporter of each school having a counselor to help ensure the well-being of students” he is a strong believer in an armed presence on campuses. “Schools still ought to have counselors but providing a safe school atmosphere that requires an armed presence is the first priority,” he said. The Education Department noted that in recent weeks throughout the Valley, “there have been reported incidents of heightened school threats, real and fake weapons found on campus, and disturbing social media postings regarding school violence. “Department staff have also received phone calls from teachers in a Phoenix-area high school district complaining of fights including one involving multiple students in which a female teacher

GOT NEWS?

38583

was knocked down. This is a growing trend not just in Arizona but throughout the country,” the department said. Mountain Pointe High School has been one of the targets of online threats and heightened security measures were taken several weeks after the threats were first reported on Jan. 19. “The Phoenix Police Department does have an ongoing investigation into threats at Mountain Pointe High School,” Phoenix Police Sgt. Melissa Soliz told The Arizonan over the weekend. “No arrests have been made and no specific threats have been substantiated.” Horne said Kurtenbach and Smith “will work throughout the state providing schools with resources and expertise to implement effective personnel and safety procedures. They will also assist school administrators in building trust with students to foster specific types of communication that help support a safer school environment.“ Kurtenbach has more than 32 years of experience in law enforcement. He has served as vice chair of Terros Behavioral Services, a member of the advisory board of the Arizona State University Center for Violence Prevention, a board member of AZ Common Ground and belongs to numerous law enforcement associations. He attended the 2018 Anti-Defamation League National Counter Terrorism Seminar in Israel, and he has served as a grant reviewer for the U.S. Office of Justice Programs. He is a recipient of the Freedom Fund Award for Law Enforcement from the Maricopa County NAACP, the MetLife Foundation Community-Police Partnership Award, Hero Award from the Center for Neighborhood Leadership and multiple law enforcement honors including the Phoenix Police Department Medal of Valor, Distinguished Service Award, Community Based Policing Award.

Contact Ken Sain at ksain@timeslocalmedia.com

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Trans students ask CUSD board for more rights BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

everal students who identify as transgender urged the Governing Board of the Chandler Unified School District to adopt trans-friendly policies at the Feb. 8 meeting. “I am a gender-fluid, queer student at a CUSD school,” said Kanix Gallo, a Chandler High student. “I preface this by saying this because we’re pushing for change in our schools.” Kanix has been one of the leaders of the Support Equality Arizona Schools. The sophomore led a student walkout at Chandler High earlier this school year to protest new anti-LGBTQ laws. “Something we want to see is gender neutral bathrooms,” Kanix said. “Being a gender fluid student at a school, sometimes I dress more masculine and when I walk into a female restroom, I get harassed. I get assaulted, and they’re asking ‘why is there a guy in this restroom?’ “When I dress female, like I am today

in a skirt, how people view me is female. I go into the restroom, it’s fine. Sometimes, I’ll still go in there and people will question ‘why is there a boy wearing a skirt?’” Kanix said she was given a dress code violation for wearing women’s clothes. “I got dress-coded for wearing this exact outfit that I wear before you,” Kanix said. “I’ve worn this a million other times outside. I’m completely covered up. ... Our identities aren’t respected for who we are.” Board President Jason Olive asked staff to investigate why Kanix was given a dress code violation, agreeing his attire was appropriate. Another trans student asked the board

to allow them to use their new names, instead of the ones on their birth certificates. “As a trans kid in school, even one person using my dead name is harming,” said Salem Babington, a sophomore at Chandler High. “This continues to be your fault.” Salem said he asked an assistant principal what would it take to change his name in the system so he would no longer be misnamed and have to correct substitute teachers. “It’s not that easy anymore,” Salem said, pointing out that to get a legal name change would require parental support and not all trans students can count on that.

GOT NEWS?

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5631 or pmaryniak@timeslocalmedia.com

Salem said he would also like to study abroad, but once again the name is a significant hurdle to overcome. “My diploma will say my dead name,” Salem said. “We need more resources for trans kids.” Another trans student spoke specifically about a bill currently in the legislature. SB 1001 would ban any teacher or staff at a school from using the preferred pronouns of a student if they differ from their biological sex unless they have written permission to do so from their parents. Other speakers called for more LGBTQ+ policies. One pointed to the high rate of attempted suicides by LGBTQ+ students. “You as the school board can fix this,” Gilbert Classical Academy student Hayden Nguyen told the board. “And you have a responsibility to your kids to fix this. You have a responsibility to the parents of those kids to fix this. You have a responsibility to save lives today.”

Need help with yard work? Do you know of a senior resident or veteran in Chandler that needs help with yard maintenance? The City’s Neighborhood Programs Office has teams of volunteers ready to help and we need your assistance identifying those in need. Contact City staff at 480-782-4348 or neighborhood.programs@chandleraz.gov to ask for help or to connect us with a senior or veteran. And if you’re a company or organization looking for an opportunity to volunteer, let’s talk! Learn more about City programs helping neighborhoods at chandleraz.gov/neighborhoods.

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Around Chandler Artists sought for Ocotillo Art, Fine Craft Show

Artists in a wide variety of mediums are sought for a limited number of spaces for the next Ocotillo Art & Fine Craft Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 1 in Downtown Ocotillo in Chandler. Area painters, potters, photographers, glass makers, mixed media and other artisans working in fine art and fine craft are invited to submit an application by Feb. 24 to be considered for this continuing juried show. For questions, contact Sandy Ashbaugh at OcotilloArtistsGroup@gmail.com. Vendors can apply at entrythingy.com/d=ocotilloartistsgroup.com?start=list.

Devorah Hadassah slates game day with prizes

Devorah Hadassah will hold a game day with prizes to benefit the Hadassah Medical Organization 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at Chabad East Valley, 875 N. McClintock Road, Chandler. The $18 registration includes games, supplies and snacks. For tickets or more information contact:

Gail at 480-570-6819 or Susan at 520-7053226

Banner Ocotillo Medical Center recruiting volunteers

Banner Ocotillo Medical Center seeks volunteers to work in its nursing and medical imaging units. They also need help in the gift shop, patient waiting areas, and at the front desk greeting visitors. “We ask that our volunteers commit at least four hours each week,” said Alyssa Trebil, guest services supervisor. “We’re also flexible when it comes to scheduling our volunteers, and we are willing to work with you to make sure it’s a schedule that best meets your needs. Time is one of the most valuable things we can give, and we so appreciate volunteers donating their time to help our hospital patients and staff.” Call 480-256-7086.

City names its inaugural MLK Jr. Award winners

The City of Chandler named its inaugural Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. awards winners at a Jan. 13 event.

Chandler Unified educator John Prothro earned the MLK Distinguished Achievement Award for his advocacy of social justice with the desire of bringing intentional change within spheres of excellence. The Emma Arbuckle Empowerment Award went to Shirley White, a long-time Chandler resident who the judges said is unselfish, unbiased, devoted to helping others and the building of community. Chandler High student Kanix Gallo received the Youth Action Award for his work advocating for LGBTQ+ students, including leading a walkout year to protest recent laws passed by Legislature. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Glen LaVon Woods, the co-founder of the South Chandler Self-Help Foundation. She is a former community organizer and director of the Chandler Community Action Program. Woods organized the first Black History Celebration in Chandler and the annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant.

Working America exhibit opens at museum

The photographer exhibit “Working America” is now on display at the Chandler Museum through May 21. Artist Sam Comes presents immigrants and first-generation Americans working in skilled trades to highlight the American experience. The museum is located at 300 S. Chandler Village Drive is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

Chandler Innovation Fair returns to downtown

Chandler’s Innovation Fair is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 25 downtown. This is the 12th year of the fair, which the city puts on with the help of the Chandler Unified School District. Six teams will win $500 each for their school’s science club or program for the most educational, most creative and most passionate projects. Companies and organizations can participate as exhibitors. More than 90 companies signed up to be exhibitors last year.

Arizona Railway Day coming to Chandler

The Arizona Railway Museum plans to celebrate Arizona Railway Day in Chandler from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 25 at the museum, 330 E. Ryan Road.

There will be artifacts and memorabilia on display, tours of vintage railcars and goods available for purchase. The museum will not charge its standard fee for this event.

City hosting Golden Neighbors events

The City of Chandler is hosting another of its Golden Neighbors events from 9:30 to 11 a.m., Feb. 28 at the Chandler Public Library on Delaware Street. Host Keystone Law Firm will be there to give information about deeds, trusts, wills and more. They also plan to host a giveaway event from 10 a.m. to noon, March 8 at the Chandler Senior Center. Call 480-782-4362 for information.

Four local students advance as Flinn Scholarship finalists

Four students who attend classes in the Chandler Unified School District have advanced as finalists for the 2023 Flinn Scholarship. There are 39 finalists across the state. About 20 will be selected for the scholarship, which is valued at about $130,000. The CUSD students remaining are: Cameron Bautista of Basha High; Carol Chen of Hamilton High; Richa Chirravuri of Hamilton High; Sofia Llanos of Basha High.

Chandler seeks nominations for its top volunteers of the year

The City of Chandler is asking residents to nominate worthy friends, family and neighbors for its Volunteer Recognition Awards. Deadline is March 1. You can nominate that at chandleraz.gov/VolunteerAwards. The city has eight categories for nominations.

Chandler Chamber accepting Community Awards nominations

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for its annual Community Awards through April 7. This will be the 36th year the Chandler Chamber has recognized top businesses, educators, and public servants. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on June 1. For information on how to submit nominations, email info@chandlerchamber. com.

CITY NEWS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

E.D. MARSHALL JEWELERS Largest Selection of New & Certified Pre-Owned Fine Watches & Spectacular Jewelry in Arizona!

PAYING THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE PRICES FOR YOUR FINE WATCHES, DIAMONDS, JEWELRY & COINS

ROLEX, PATEK PHILIPPE, PANERAI, BREITLING, OMEGA AUDEMARS PIGUET, IWC, VACHERON CONSTANTIN, TAG HEUER, VINTAGE, MILITARY & POCKET WATCHES

Over 400 GIA Certified Diamonds 1.00 - 10.00 Cts In Our Vast Inventory 12/31/23

www.edmarshalljewelers.com

480-922-1968

Expert Watch Repair Custom Jewelry Design Jewelry Repair

*EDMJ is not affiliated with Rolex USA, Breitling, Omega, Panerai, Patek, or Cartier. Watches are certified by ED Marshall Jewelers

REAL ESTATE

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

From Uptown to Downtown, we cover Chandler like the sun

Chandler home market soaring for sellers, analyst says BY PAUL MARYNIAK Arizonan Executive Editor

handler is leading a strong resurgence of the housing market in the Southeast Valley that’s rapidly tilting in favor of sellers, according to a leading Valley analyst. The Cromford Report, which closely watches the housing market in Maricopa and Pima counties, said last week that its index of market health shows Chandler second among all 17 Valley submarkets it monitors in terms of favoring sellers, behind only Fountain Hills. Based on a variety of market data, the Cromford Market Index rates municipalities as being balanced at 100 points,

with anything over that increasingly tilting toward sellers and anything below favoring buyers. Its latest index puts Chandler at 163 – a 28% increase over its rating a month ago. That’s bad news for buyers, as it is strangling the modest decline in home prices the market has seen for the last six months, the Cromford Report vartious analysts say. “The downward pricing trend is weakening because in many places the supply has dropped and demand improved,” the Cromford Report said. “Asking prices are now on the rise and it does not take a big leap of imagination to see closed prices following suit during the second

With genuine love for real estate and her home state of Arizona. Striving to provide integrity and quality service to build relationships with clients and committed to hard work, listen and follow through effectively, to help buyers and sellers accomplish ownership and/or relocation real estate needs. Always happy to help, speaking English and Spanish.

quarter.” “Overall the market is more favorable to sellers than we expected in December and downward pressure on pricing has been largely eliminated, except in a few market segments,” it said. Further pointing to a resurgence of the sellers market is an increase in January of listings under contract over December’s numbers. The Cromford Report said 19 Phoenix Metro ZIP codes showed double-digit increases in listings under contract in January, although none were in Chandler. The closest geographically to northern and western Chandler was Ahwatukee 85245. In all, 10 of 19 were in the city of Phoenix, there were one in Carefree, Glendale, Goodyear and Peoria; two each in Mesa and Gilbert; and one in Sun Lakes. The number of listings under contract rose from 5,456 in December to 7,810 in January – a 43% increase, it said. “This is by far the highest percentage

increase we have ever measured from one month to the next,” the Cromford Report added. “It shows us that buyers are getting used to interest rates around 6%. It helps a lot when sellers are willing to help them buy down the initial rate.” The Cromford Report counseled, “It is time to drop the skepticism and enter the hope stage of the cycle” – a reference to its map of the market cycle, which plots Valley homesellers’ emotional state over the last few years. “Listings are going under contract so quickly that the supply of new listings cannot keep up, despite a much higher flow of new listings than we saw in December,” it said. “We are heading back towards a supply-constrained market and it is likely that prices will start to move higher within a short space of time. Asking prices are moving upwards quickly and these are usually a leading indicator.

see MARKET page 19

Top seller

Cal today with any real estate related questions.

CENTURY 21® Arizona Foothills

LIZETH MIRANDA REALTOR O: 480-776-0001 C: 520-705-7812 Liz.azhomesc21@gmail.com

This 2,357-square-foot house on S. Rita Lane in Chandler sold this month for $620,000. The four-bedroom, three-bath home, built in 1993, boasts a three-car garage and pool and was completely updated with stainless steel appliances, modern lighting, tile showers and more upgrades. (Special to the Arizonan)

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

REAL ESTATE

What’s The Real Value Of Hearing Aids?

• Hearing Aids • Hearing Protection • Hearing Testing MARKET from page 18 “While there is no guarantee that mortgage rates won’t go higher again, 2023 has started out much stronger than anyone expected back in November.” The Cromford Report also said that overall, January closings totaling 4,559 were 44% below those record in January 2022, with new home sales down by 6% and resales plummeting 49%. The monthly media price of those sales last month was $439,000 – down less than 1% from a year earlier. The median sales price of new homes sold last month was $503,195 – up 9.4% over January 2022 – while the median sale price of re-sale homes was down 4.3% in the same period to $420,000. It also noted, “Although closed sales volumes are low and prices are down from this time last year, total dollar volume is higher than it was in February 2020, just three years ago. This is because prices are so much higher than they were on 2020.” All this good news for sellers also became a springboard for the Cromford Report to take a shot at Wall Street giant Goldman Sachs for its fear-inspiring forecast – and some media outlets, notably Fox News, for giving it more credence than Cromford thinks is warranted. It ripped Goldman Sachs for “making all kinds of weird and unlikely forecast” that said the housing market would crash and home values plummet by as much as 25% or more in four cities, including Phoenix. “Not quite sure how to deal with it because its description of the current

Source: The Cromford Report Phoenix market bears little comparison with the real world,” the Cromford Report said. “The idea that interest rates will skyrocket in 2023 seems more than a little far-fetched when the inflation rate is falling,” Cromford said. “It could happen, but to have this as your base case seems very irresponsible. “Is Goldman Sachs really saying Phoenix home prices will go up and then drastically down? Come on now, there is no data that supports that outlook. Just a wild-ass guess?” Noting home values crashed by 60% between 2006 and 2011 in the Valley during the Great Recession, the Cromford Report slammed Goldman Sachs for using that for comparison. “Since the peak in May 2022 of $475,000, the median was down to $412,000 by December. This is a fall of 13% so far,” it said. While wondering whether Fox News “garbled the message that Goldman Sachs put out,” it called out Goldman Sachs s well for forecasting mortgage rates months from now, stating, “No one has ever been very good at forecasting mortgage interest rates more than a couple of weeks in advance. “This includes the Mortgage Bankers Association and it especially includes Goldman Sachs whose track-record on interest rate forecasts is extremely poor,” the Cromford Report continued. “This is not saying much because there is no one who gets them right more than by random chance.Any time spent listening to people making interest rate forecasts is time you could have spent more productively.”

BESTOF

2022 2022

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

Check out our online hearing screener at FynesAudiology.com

“Did your new hearing aids cost much?” inquired a friend. “Well,” said the new hearing aid user as she drew a deep breath.” my hearing loss cost me three friendships that I know of, a strained relationship with my husband, two grandchildren who think I don’t understand them, boredom at church, and lost interest in attending get-togethers.” After a reflective pause, she added: “Sure I invested some money to get these hearing aids... but it doesn’t compare with what it cost before I got them.”

480-456-0176 www.fynesaudiology.com 2058 S Dobson Rd #9, Mesa, AZ 85202

COMMUNITY

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Chandler thespian shines in new Limelight production BY KATY SPRING Arizonan Contributor

t’s a play that goes wrong in every sense of the word, but the mishaps, setbacks and mistakes come together to deliver high comedy in “The Play that Goes Wrong: High School Edition.” Fresh off Broadway, the smash-hit farce is presented by Limelight Performing Arts in Gilbert. With a cast of 13 teenagers, Limelight is the first theater in the state to present “The Play that Goes Wrong: High School Edition.” Performances are Feb. 24-March 5 at Limelight’s Artspace Theatre in Gilbert. “I wanted to participate in this show because I saw it on tour, and I don’t think I’ve ever laughed harder in my life!” said 19-year-old Kayla King of Chandler. “When it was announced Limelight was doing it, I had to audition and be part of this hilarious show!” She’s not the only one who thinks it’s funny. Hailed as a “gut-busting hit” by the New York Times, “The Play that Goes Wrong” won an Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, snagged two Tony Awards and is the longest-running show in the 100-year history of London’s Old Red

Kayla King of Chandler, joins Ava Chiappetta and Vincent Farley in rehearsing a scene from) in Limelight Performing Arts’ production of “The Play That Goes Wrong. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Lion Theatre. A hybrid of Monty Python and Sherlock Holmes, this play-within-a-play follows a woefully misguided troupe of players during their opening night performance of “The Murder at Haversham Manor,” a 1920s murder mystery. Forgotten lines, technical gaffes and set malfunctions all conspire to ruin the

show, but cast members persist – and persist – in their quest to arrive at the final curtain call. “Anyone who has done live theater knows that things rarely go as planned, so actors have to be ready at all times to improvise and keep the show moving forward,” said director Christian Graca. “What’s so hilarious about the play

is watching this troupe of woebegone actors persevere with their very serious murder mystery, even when literally everything goes wrong.” Kayla was cast as Chris, who plays the role of Inspector Carter in the murder-mystery and simultaneously serves as the show’s director, set designer, costume designer, prop maker, box office manager, press and PR person and multiple other roles. “Chris just wants the show to go well. Of course, that’s what makes it so funny when it doesn’t,” she explained. “You can see her slowly becoming more and more panicked as the show goes on and the cast tries to salvage it, and it is hilarious.” Indeed, “The Play that Goes Wrong” is full of physical comedy – like pratfalls, fist fights and falling props – and boasts a set that is second-to-none. “The set is its own character in this production,” said Graca. “Built by Jorge Forero and Joe Woodward, it was created expressly to malfunction, upping the comedic value because if the set goes wrong, everything else goes wrong.” The disasters snowball uncontrollably

see LIMELIGHT page 23

Chandler sailor played role in Super Bowl ceremony ARIZONAN NEWS STAFF

Chandler native played a role in last week’s Super Bowl National Anthem performance. Three Navy tactical squadronsconducted a unified flyover and Petty Officer 3rd Class Ariana Scott was one of the sailors maintaining the aircraft for Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 122. Scott is a 2009 Hamilton High School graduate and a 2012 University of Phoenix grad. Skills and values similar to those found in Chandler are important to succeed in the military.

“Growing up in my hometown, I worked different jobs since I was 15 years old,” said Scott. “The one thing that always stuck with me was the advice my father gave me. It was to give each day at work you’re all and have pride in the job you have to do.” Scott joined the Navy three years ago. “It was always my dream to be able to serve my country,” said Scott. “Not too many members of my family have served in the Navy, so I was excited to be one of the first to do so in my generation.” Today, Scott serves as an aviation

structural mechanic - safety equipment (AME). “My favorite part about being an AME is getting to work on the aircraft, and helping to train our pilots on cockpit safety,” said Scott. According to Navy officials, naval aviation is the best in the world because of its ability to harness the entire ocean as a runway. “Serving in the Navy means so much to me because it has given my life more purpose,” added Scott. “Being able to protect my loved ones is an incredible feeling.”

ARIANA SCOTT

COMMUNITY

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Kathleen A. Nielsen Attorney At L Aw

12-MONTH CD

% 4.00 APY*

♦Trusts ♦ Wills ♦ Probate ♦ Family Law ♦ Divorce

BESTOF

2020

BESTOF

2021

Southwest Business Center 4500 S. Lakeshore Dr. Ste 300 Tempe, AZ 85282 (SE Rural & Lakeshore)

480.730.6469

kathleen@kathleennielsenlaw.com Serving the East Valley for over 35 Years

Less pop. More culture.

COMMUNITY

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Volunteers sought for foster care review board ARIZONAN NEWS STAFF BEFORE

AFTER

Is Your Pool In Need of a Makeover? We’re the Pool Resurfacing Experts!

Let us help you create the pool of your drea ms!

% OFF

Tile Cleaning Expires December 31, 2022

BRING IN A WATER SAMPLE FOR A FREE ANA LYSIS

SEE STORE FOR DETAILS

Pool Resurfacing Experts Specializing in POOL SERVICE, MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

602-546-POOL (7665)

www.barefootpoolman.com Ahwatukee!

Ahwatukee!

BESTOF

2019

384 W Cullumber Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

Thank you for voting us an Ahwatukee’s “Best Of” Pool Service Company 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021!

Ahwatukee Owned & Operated Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

The Foster Care Review Board, a program within the Dependent Children’s Services Division of the Arizona Supreme Court, is seeking volunteers. Statewide, the FCRB has about 108 boards and a little over 500 volunteer positions that advocate on behalf of children in Arizona’s foster care system. In Maricopa County – including Ahwatukee, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, Mesa and Scottsdale – the FCRB facilitates 56 boards that each have five people appointed by presiding judge of Juvenile Court. “We have an urgent need to fill vacancies in this county,” a spokeswoman said. Volunteers commit to meeting one weekday a month to review the cases of children who are in out-of-home care. The meetings are completed via video conference. The board makes recommendations to the Juvenile Court and interested parties involved in the case. Currently, boards in Maricopa County are reviewing the cases of about 5,200 children. Volunteers receive training.

In preparation for a board meeting, volunteers receive court documents and other case materials via a secured website about 10 days before the meeting. Board members prepare questions to clarify and gather information. Interested parties for each case can appear before the board and speak about their concerns, successes, wants and needs and the board members are allowed to ask questions. A program specialist prepares a written report with the board’s recommendations and statements by the interested parties. Volunteers must be at least 21 and pass a fingerprint background check. Apply at AZFCRB.org or 602-452-3400. You can also email RPTFCRB@courts. az.gov to request an application. Another way to get involved is a program with similar requirements called Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), in which volunteers are appointed by the Court to advocate for a specific child with whom they are paired. To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer: AZCASAVolunteer. org.

BE DEBT FREE IN 24–48 MONTHS! If you owe more than $10,000 in credit card or other debt, see how we can help.

ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®

Call today: 1-866-696-2697

COMMUNITY

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

LIMELIGHT from page 20 as the troupe presses on, desperate to get to the end of their murder-mystery production. “I think audiences will love the fact that they’ll never really know what to expect,” said Kayla. “You never know what’s going to go wrong next, and I think that makes for an incredible, hilarious, truly entertaining show.” As the saying goes, comedy is harder than drama, but Graca knows her performers have what it takes. “These actors were off-book after only a couple of weeks of rehearsal,” she said. “That means they’ve spent the last month developing their characters, adding nuances, perfecting their line delivery and playing off each other. “We have run all of the scenes in this show dozens of times, but I laugh so hard I cry at every single rehearsal.” Tickets for “The Play that Goes Wrong”

are $15 and can be purchased at ll-pa. org. Presented by arrangement with Dramatists Play Service under license from Mischief Worldwide Ltd. The Mischief Production was originally produced on the West End Stage by Kenny Wax & Stage Presence and on Broadway by Kevin McCollum, J.J. Abrams, Kenny Wax & Stage Presence.

If you go

“The Play that Goes Wrong: High School Edition” WHERE: Limelight Performing Arts, 511 W. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert. WHEN: Feb. 24-March 5 The run includes both matinee and evening performances. TICKETS: ll-pa.org. Group discounts are available.

GetConnected facebook.com/getoutaz

How Will They Know?

Living life to the fullest is easier knowing your loved ones don’t have to worry about your burial, cremation, or funeral. Our inflationproof preplan arrangements ensure your wishes are respected. Call or visit us online today.

MENDOZA Cleaning & Sanitization General Cleaning, Laundry & More 1 time • weekly bi-weekly • monthly Ask about Windows & Sanitization Services

Call today to make an appointment.

FREE ESTIMATES

AZLegacyFuneralHome.com

480-259-0935

480-207-2286

Call Mireya Mendoza Now!

BUSINESS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

New EV business enhances STEM learning BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

t’s not a secret that the jobs of the future are going to require a heavy dose of science, technology, engineering and math education. “We have to keep producing more career technical education, more STEM, STEM, STEM, STEM, STEM, STEM,” Chris Camacho, the executive director of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, told Chandler City Council in January. “That is critical for our state’s competitive position.” A new after-school business has opened up to help. iCode held its grand opening in Chandler on Feb. 4, with other schools planned in Gilbert, Scottsdale and Goodyear. iCode started in 2015 and began offering franchises in 2018. Five years later, it has about 70 locations and the Chandler school is the first in Arizona. “It’s meant to supplement, not take the place of, the regular school,” said

Huy Tao teaches a lesson about simple machines at iCode, where kids can learn STEM skills like coding, programming drones and robotics, and digital arts. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Misty Ellis, who owns both the Chandler and Gilbert locations with her husband, Daniel. “What we provide here is something that most schools don’t provide. It’s ed-

ucation, but really with the technology. We do a huge focus on soft skills.” Misty, whose husband works in cybersecurity, said they wanted to own their own business and started shopping

around for franchise opportunities. “When he saw the iCode curriculum, he was like, ‘This is it. This is what I want to do,’” she said. That curriculum is the main drawing card. The school hires college students who are finishing up their STEM degrees as instructors. Ellis said her instructors have said they wish they would have had an iCode school when they were young. The couple hopes to open up their Gilbert school by the end of February with a grand opening there likely happening in March. iCode offers programs for students from kindergarten through senior year of high school, separating the programs by using the martial arts belt system. A white belt is for robotics; yellow, app development; orange, web development; red, game development; green for drones, blue for networking and black for cloud computing.

see STEM page 28

Merchant Marine opens unique salon for men BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

Matthew Huyter said the traditional strip mall barber is designed to get people in with low prices, give them a quick cut, and then move onto the next. It’s all about volume. “They’re on-the-books standard is 11 minutes from walk-in to being done,” said Huyter, who chose Chandler as the first Roosters Men’s Grooming Center in Arizona. “In 11 minutes, you can’t get that attention to detail.” Huyter said Roosters is different. “People walk out that door knowing they’ve gotten the best haircut in years,” Huyter said. “And I’m not I’m not exaggerating by saying that. They say ‘I can’t believe it.’ I’m like, ‘Well, that’s what you get when someone takes a half an hour

to cut your hair as opposed to the standard 9 to 11 minutes.’” Huyter is in the Merchant Marines and said he wanted to own his own business that was somewhat familiar to him. Since he stands on his feet all day, he was attracted to men’s grooming. He chose Roosters to get licenses for up to three shops in Arizona because they are a throw-back to what barber shops used to be. There was no rushing you in and out. A shampoo, head massage and hot towel were part of the whole service – they aren’t extras that have a separate price tag. He said he also liked how Roosters is designed, with each station set up as its

see BARBER page 27

Matthew Huyter is a member of the U.S. Merchant Marines and owner of Arizona’s first Rooster’s Men’s Grooming Center, located in Chandler. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

BUSINESS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Pickleball Kingdom founder franchising his concept ARIZONAN NEWS STAFF

he founder of an indoor pickleball facility in Chandler says his business has been so successful that he’s franchising it. Mike “Ace” Rodrigues opened the 15-court Pickleball Kingdom last May on the northeast corner of Ray and Rural roads, touting his facility as not only air-conditioned and wind-free but also an ideal spot for corporate events, birthday parties and other celebrations. Now, he’s hoping his idea will catch on statewide and across the nation – if not the world – because he considers it “with a proven successful working model.” “We all know how fun pickleball is. What’s not fun is waiting for a court, playing in the heat or cold with the sun in your eyes, and having the wind affect your game. We’ve solved all those problems in Arizona. Now we’re exporting it, first to the rest of the country… then the world,” said Rodrigues, founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom. A recent report from the Sports &

Mike “Ace” Rodrigues is CEO/founder of Pickleball Kingdom in Chandler. (Courtesy of Pickleball Kingdom)

Fitness Industry Association called pickleball the “fastest-growing sport in America, reporting that it has attracted 4.8 million players nationwide and has grown in popularity by 40% since 2020. The association tracks the popularity of sports through the sale of related merchandise.

“It is almost a cliché at this point that the pandemic did not so much create trends as much as accelerated them. Pickleball has grown in popularity for the past five years and did not miss a beat during the pandemic. Pickleball’s growth trajectory gives every indication it will be a significant part of the Amer-

ican sport landscape for the foreseeable future,” said Tom Cove, President/CEO of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. Municipalities have had a tough time meeting the demand for public pickleball courts. For example, the pickleball complex at Pecos Park in Ahwatukee at the southern end of 48th Street, draws players from as far south as Casa Grande, according to some local residents who are lobbying Phoenix to create more courts. Rodrigues said his idea for Pickleball Kingdom was born two years ago on a dirty public court while standing in the sun waiting to get onto a court on a windy day. It took a year to build the Chandler arena and now he and his team put together an operations manual they call “The Keys to the Kingdom.” “It would have been irresponsible of us to have launched franchising earli-

see PICKLEBALL page 27

Services offered • Beyond Primary Care • Same Day Visits • Seamless integrated services • Maternal Care • OB/GYN • Onsite Lab & ultrasound

480-307-3477

655 S. Dobson Road, Suite 201, Chandler, AZ

sunlifehealth.org

BUSINESS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Chandler comedy club merges with another BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

now White is setting up shop in Downtown Chandler. The comedy club ImprovMANIA is undergoing major changes, including adopting a Snow White theme. The intimate club on Arizona Avenue has moved to a bigger space more than a block north on East Boston Street. It now has two stages, one outdoors, and has changed its name to Mic Drop MANIA. The name change reflects a merger of two comedy clubs. David and Colleen Specht owned and performed at ImprovMANIA. For the new space, they wanted to bring in business partners, Casey Currier and Hillary Hutson, who own the Mic Drop Comedy Club in San Diego – which has an Alice in Wonderland theme. David said that when he and Colleen started ImprovMANIA in 2014, there was little for folks to do in Chandler. “There was just no entertainment

in Chandler at all,” David said. “So we wanted to do improv in Chandler. We did that over there for about eight and a half years.” He said they are leasing the space on Arizona Avenue and that he and his wife decided to make the move because the space on Boston Street was available to purchase. So, they put in a bid and bought it. Then they realized they needed to

make changes. “We just realized the space needed to be open all the time,” David said. “And we’re only two people and we perform at every show.” That’s when he reached out to Currier, who they knew through mutual friends and who had started out working security at Tempe Improv. In addition to improv shows, the club plans to bring in top comics from around the nation to perform. “So if you have not heard of who is on stage, you are going to hear about them soon because they are on the rise,” Currier said. “And they’re the best comedians in the country.” Next month actor and comedian Jamie Kennedy is scheduled to perform at Mic Drop MANIA. The new club will serve a limited menu (it only has seven items, in keeping with the theme). Currier said unlike a lot of comedy clubs, there is no drink or food minimum.

Climbing stairs shouldn’t feel like climbing Camelback. Get back to the little things you love with stronger joints. Whether it is climbing Camelback Mountain or climbing your stairs without joint pain, we’re here to get you back to the life you love. Our highly specialized physician and patient care staff works with each patient to establish a personalized treatment and rehabilitation program. Discover how we can get you back to living your life your way.

“If you buy a ticket, you can come here and enjoy it,” Currier said. “We’re not going to force you to spend any more money. We want you to have a fun experience and order at will.” One of the uses for the outdoor stage will be an open mic night every Saturday at 10 p.m so that any local comedians who want to test their material and gain experience can do so. Those coming to watch might be surprised at the quality of local comedians, Currier said. “Outside of L.A. and New York, Arizona, and Phoenix is one of the best comedy scenes in the country,” Currier said. “So outside of the four or five major clubs in the market, there are little clubs and open mics every night of the week. “And I think for those that don’t know, Arizona is an absolute hotbed of comedy. The local scene is tremendous.” The outdoor area in back can also be

see COMEDY page 27

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

BARBER from page 24 own all-inclusive area. There is no walking through the shop to get a shampoo at Roosters. It happens at the same part of the salon where a customer gets a haircut. But the biggest difference is the stylists have the time to do a quality job. “The neckline takes a lot of time to do,” he said. “It takes some serious neck work and shave to make it look good.” The price for that additional time, services and quality is about double what the strip mall shops charge. The club cut is $39. Roosters offers a discount for active military and first-responders that they call a “hero’s cut” for $34. For boys 13 and younger the price is $24, and there is a $34 senior price before 3 p.m. on weekdays. He said he did his research and decided Chandler residents were looking for barbers who gave better service and that they would be willing to pay for it. And he decided the location at Alma School and Ray roads was perfect.

PICKLEBALL from page 25 er,” Rodrigues said. “Indoor pickleball is a brand-new industry. It’s not a gym, it’s not a giant playground. There was so much to learn and mistakes needed to be made and fixed. “The heavy lifting is done. I didn’t want franchisees paying us while we were still figuring it out. That learning curve happened on our dime.” Rodrigues said his team “checs all the boxes” for the five elements of a successful franchise: a market that desires the product or service, working proof of concept, a plan, franchising experience and

COMEDY from page 26 rented out for local parties and groups. In addition to the shows, David said that they have improv and stand-up classes for those interested in getting into the business. David and Colleen said that so far, the all the changes are working. “There are a lot of events in downtown Chandler that, organically, bring foot traffic. There was the Cajun festival last weekend, there’s the Beer and Barbecue

As for his other two licenses, he said he’s looking at locations in Queen Creek and Tempe, but hasn’t settled on any place yet. Huyter said he does offer a special deal to any World War II veterans who need a haircut. He will give them excellent service for $1. “They’re living legends,” Huyter said. “I don’t feel right collecting their money. The only reason I ask for the dollar, is because I want their autograph, so I ask them to sign that dollar.” So far he hasn’t had any World War II veterans take advantage of the offer. “I guess there’s not many left,” he said. “I might have to give it a few more years, and then go to Korean and maybe Vietnam.”

Roosters Men’s Grooming Center 1949 W Ray Road, Chandler 480-590-3469 roostersmgc.com

industry-specific knowledge. His team includes: Jon Brovitz, who has over 20 years as a large multi-unit franchisee with Massage Envy and Amazing Lash; David Haynie, a professional pickleball player and coach and general manager of Pickleball Kingdom; and Steve Holmes, whose business serves franchisees. “One of our core beliefs is, ‘Life is better with pickleball,’” Rodrigues said, saying his concept includes a free introductory lesson, courts without waiting, and “a better environment to play in.” Information: PickleballKingdom.com or ladyj@pickleballkingdom.com Festival, Fourth of July has moved back down here. There’s a weekly farmers market. “There’s the Corvette show, the wedding walk, there’s all kinds of organic foot traffic that we’re now a part of. And I think we fit in perfectly.”

Mic Drop Mania

51 E. Boston St., Chandler 480-564-1844 micdropmania.com

BUSINESS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

STEM from page 24

$100 Off new equipment w/installation

Now thru February 2023. Pumps, Filters, Heaters, Salt Systems, Automation, Handrails. Call for details. BESTOF

2022

Best Pool Service

• Weekly Service • Equipment Repair/Replacement • Equipment Maintenance • Handrails • Green Pool Clean Up • Drain/Acid Wash

480-694-1158 Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC 337086

FREE WEEKLY SERVICE ESTIMATES

Premier Tile Roofer! aFamily Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers! aWe have a “Spencer” on every job

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING

HAVE BUSINESS NEWS? ROC#244850 Insured | Bonded

Valley Wide Service FREE Estimates 480-446-7663 Credit Cards

spencer4hireroofing.com

The key to making this succeed, Ellis said, is that the students have to want to learn. So iCode makes the programs fun so they look forward to coming to class. “This makes it fun, it makes it engaging,” Ellis said. “And the kids have a great time. We really focus on soft skills problem solving. They are always learning how to give presentations and to share what they’re learning. So they’re not just sitting in front of a computer, they’re learning how to write code.” iCode has a number of options. Most regular classes meet for two hours once a week though there also is an Students at iCode progress through different coloption with two one-hour or-coded knowledge and skill levels similar to a marclasses. In addition, it pro- tial arts program. (David Minton/Staff Photographer) vides special camps during the summer and breaks in the great supplement to what they would get usual school-year schedule. at school.” Ellis said they would also like to partEllis said the goal of the program is to ner with local schools, running an event give students a solid STEM foundation at their campus at no charge to give par- by making learning fun. ents a chance to know about their pro“They really work hard to make it engram and see what the program offers. gaging, because we don’t want any kid She said so far, they’ve had more luck coming in and sitting here and just being partnering with charter schools than like, ‘Oh, I hate this, like, my dad’s makthey have with public school districts. ing me do this, because he’s a computer The most popular hub at iCode, El- science guy,’” she said. lis said, is the gaming hub. She and her “We want it to be fun, and very hands husband choose games specifically for on. So, you know, we added a lot of the education value, such as Minecraft hands-on activities.” and Roblox. “We don’t just set a kid in front of MiiCode School necraft and say, ‘oh, have fun,’” she ex1960 W Germann Road, Chandler plained. “We teach them how to modify 480-222-8991 it, how to do mods, how to change differ3115 S Val Vista Drive, Gilbert ent things in the game. 480-222-8990 “Then we can teach them how to creicodeschool.com ate their own games. So just it’s a really

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5631 or pmaryniak@ timeslocalmedia.com

BUSINESS

2023 All-arizona Academic team

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Central Arizona College

Jose Valenzuela

Tobin Vangorder

Cochise College

Kayla Clancy

Gateway Community College

Christopher Hadley

Cochise College

Athena Easton

Gateway Community College

Erin Kirksey

Gricelda Montiel Ayala

Dulce Perez

Arizona Western College

Lily Guzman

Frida Nandayapa Guzman

Chandler-Gilbert Community College

David Cassidy

Coconino Community College

Danilla Colin

Glendale Community College

Deedra Dewitt

Chandler-Gilbert Community College

Maize Pratt

Coconino Community College

Alexander Robles

Glendale Community College

Ashlyn Dighans

Mohave Community College

Northland Pioneer College

Wesley Winter

Zachariah Knapp

Christine Mada

Matthew Arcarese

Kira Okuma

Daniel Schessler

Emma Harlow

Martha Salter

Paradise Valley Community College

Pima Community College

Phoenix College

Pima Community College

Phoenix College

Rio Salado College

Pima Community College

Rio Salado College

Bridget Bachicha Central Arizona College

Riley Snow

Chandler-Gilbert Community College

Harrison Oakes

Eastern Arizona College

Dalia Diaz

Central Arizona College

Sabine Mahi

Central Arizona College

Kyle Morris

Ralph Emmanuel Rosales

Sabrina Young

Jeremy Joubert

Lucas Milloy

Chandler-Gilbert Community College

Naomi Park

Charis Hayward

Shannon Poppell

Emily Harris

Paige (Teresa) McKenna

Teresa Billick

Pima Community College

Diane Weightman

Scottsdale Community College

Northland Pioneer College

Emma Brack

Pima Community College

Fatima Abas

Cochise College

Ysenia Veronica Mora

Estrella Mountain Community College

Mesa Community College

Northland Pioneer College

Cochise College

Eastern Arizona College

Mesa Community College

Central Arizona College

Matthew Vail

Estrella Mountain Community College

Ian Fleming

Mesa Community College

Mohave Community College

Violet Anderson

Heather Robinson Reaume

Khalil Gatto

Nicole Paulina Gil López

Paradise Valley Community College

Pima Community College

Paradise Valley Community College

Pima Community College

South Mountain Community College

Toby Tuckness

Anastasia Lobo

Simona Poulsen

Aidan Skoch

Austin Tosh

Yavapai College

A A C A DE

appa Hono r aK et

Com

lle

Sevasti Silvia

Central Arizona College

ges

O Phi Th

Robert Serrano

Luz Elias

Arizona Western College

L-ARIZ

Arizona Western College

Ari

Anthony Crocker

TEAM IC M ociety

Arizona’s Community Colleges present

m u nit y

Yavapai College

These Community College Students are selected for their academic achievement, leadership and service to the community. All receive scholarships from Arizona’s community colleges, as well as Arizona Board of Regents tuition waivers for any Arizona public university. Students are eliglible for selection to the All-USA Academic Team. For information, contact the local chapter of Phi Theta Kappa national honorary society at any Arizona community college.

Presented as a public service by the

Yavapai College

GET OUT

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

A more robust Spring Baseball season beckons this year BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Managing Editor

here were times in the past three years when Huss Brewing Company considered getting out of the Spring Training business. “We did have some hearts-to-hearts about it,” said Chip Mulala, the director of operations for the company, which sells its local craft beers at seven of the 10 Cactus League stadiums. The past three years have hurt businesses and frustrated baseball fans who like to visit Arizona in March for the nice weather and Spring Training games. First, the COVID pandemic forced an end to nearly all sports in mid-March 2020, abruptly ending a strong Cactus League season. In 2021, stadiums had to deploy social distancing, limiting capacity to 50%. Plus, they started late and had fewer games. COVID was not a problem last year, but Major League Baseball’s labor dispute was. The owners locked players out until they reached a new collective bargaining agreement, forcing a late start and fewer Spring Training games. In 2019, there were 220 Spring Training games played in Arizona, drawing 7,900 fans per game. The number of games dropped to 143 in 2020, hit 208 with the limited capacity in 2021 and bottomed out at 135 last year. The impact those three years had on the state’s tourism and the industries that support it is still being felt. “It made something abundantly clear,” said Steve Chucri, the president/CEO of the Arizona Restaurant Association. “Spring training is crucial to a lot of restaurants.” The Cactus League schedule begins on Feb. 24, and for the first time since 2019, a full slate of games awaits with no capacity restrictions.

“In 2023, we are looking forward to a ‘normal’ season,” said Bridget Binsbacher, executive director of the Cactus League. “Combine that with an upswing in tourism and I’m optimistic we will see much higher attendance. Everywhere I go, people tell me how excited they are to get back out to the ballpark.” There are 15 Major League Baseball teams that train in the Valley, playing their games at 10 stadiums. Five ballparks are home to two teams. Most of the stadiums are supported by local charity groups, such as the Thunderbirds in Scottsdale and the HoHoKams in Mesa, that raise money and then spread it around to local charities.

The charities’ ability to do that has been hurt during the past three seasons. Binsbacher said before 2020, the Cactus League generated $644 million annually for the local economy. In 2020, that dropped to $363.3 million. The league does not have the numbers for the past two years yet. One Scottsdale based-business, Bella Palazzo Collections, rents out private homes. Owner-operator Margie Van Zee said MLB’s labor issue last year was the hardest on her business. Many of the people renting some of the 80 homes in her collection are ballplayers. “We had to have a cancellation clause

in our contract so that if MLB continued to obstruct the ballplayers, then they could get out of it,” Van Zee said, adding that it forced her to be more flexible. Ironically, the pandemic’s onset in 2020 led to an increase in business. “2020 was the best year we’ve ever had, even during the pandemic,” she said. “What happened was nobody wanted to go back to their hometown. They were already here for spring training, COVID happened. A lot of them would have to go back to their cold weather climates and areas that were still shut down. “So, a lot of the ballplayers just said we’re extending, many of them extended and stayed till the beginning of the year.” Mulala said Huss Brewing Company decided to stay in the Spring Training business. In fact, they just opened a new location – Papago Brewing Company, close to Sloan Park in Mesa where the Chicago Cubs play. “We actually have it set up that we’re going to have a shuttle that is going to be taking people to the games on game day for most games that start at one o’clock,” he said. While the past three years have been difficult, right now is a great time to be in the restaurant business. In addition to Spring Training, the Super Bowl and Waste Management Phoenix Open were also in town. All those events brought a lot of tourists. Chucri expects to see between a 20-to25% increase in sales just because of the Super Bowl. “The restaurant economy, for all of our hopes and desires this February and March, is going to be very, very much needed,” Chucri said. “[We’ll] really get a huge boost when it comes to these these big events coming to the state, especially Spring Training.”

GOT NEWS? Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5631 or pmaryniak@timeslocalmedia.com

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

DO YOU FEEL OVERWHELMED MANAGING BILLS? TAKE THE MONTH OFF, ON US.

SILVERBILLS ELIMINATES THE STRESS AND HASSLE OF MANAGING BILLS. • Our dedicated, U.S.-based account managers manage, scrutinize and pay bills on your behalf. • All household bills are guaranteed to be paid on time.* • No computer is needed to use our service.

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE MONTH TRIAL OR CUSTOM QUOTE:

855-384-4496

* as long as appropriate funds are available

GET OUT

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Papago Brewing ready for spring ball fans BY JOSH ORTEGA GetOut Staff Writer

ith Spring Training just around the corner, Huss Brewing Co. is ready for thirsty fans at its new Papago Brewing Company taproom at Mesa Riverview – realizing a dream of owners Jeff and Leah Huss. The taproom, occupying the former home of The Brass Tap at 1033 N Dobson Road, is inside a standalone 2,100-square-foot, 104-seat taproom and restaurant that will pour an ever-changing selection of 60 craft draft beers, plus packaged beers to-go. Its opening earlier this month coincided with Huss’ refresh of the Papago brand. Leah Huss spent 14 years as co-owner of the original Papago Brewing Company in Scottsdale and helped pioneer the local craft beer scene, including the creation of Papago’s signature beer, Papago Orange Blossom. Leah and her husband Jeff Huss made the new taproom a personal passion

Huss Brewing Company owners Jeff and Leah Huss are reviving the Papago Brewing Company taproom in time for Spring Training season. (File photo) project and said she long dreamed of reintroducing the Papago Brewing experience to the East Valley – not with a rehash or a replica of the old taproom, but a brand-new iteration. “I really wanted to envision what Pa-

Custom Glide-Out Shelves

for your existing cabinets and pantry.

50% OFF INSTALL!

M O NT H

NO INTEREST NO PAYMENTS

*On Approved Credit*

Easy access, less stress, everything within reach. Call for Your FREE Design Consultation:

(855) 227-0135

pago Brewing would look like in 2023,” Leah said. “So, we’ll still have elements of a traditional European-style beer pub and vintage furnishings, yet very fresh and forward-looking.” Beside freshly crafted brews spanning the entire Huss family of beers, the new taproom will also feature local beers from Arizona, along with small-batch and experimental beers. It includes past favorites such as Elsie’s Milk Stout and Hopago IPA, all paired with a compact menu of premium bar bites like the sausage and pretzel board as well as 12” pizzas, paninis, sandwiches and salads. Most important, Leah said they’re excited to build on the solid craft beer foundation built by Brass Tap owners Jesse and Jason Rowe. “They’ve been great stewards of the Mesa craft beer scene, and we’re excited to introduce Huss and Papago to the neighborhood,” she said. The quiet locale at Mesa Riverview runs contrary to what’s happening for the rest of their locations – especially their taproom inside the Phoenix Convention Center. Brewmaster Jeff Huss – a diehard Chicago Cubs fan – looks forward to the next month-and-a-half when Cubs fans will fill nearby Sloan Park as part for Spring Training.

Starting on Feb. 25, Papago will open for lunch at 11 a.m. and offer free shuttle from Papago Brewing Co. to Sloan Park for those attending Cubs Spring Training games. MaLeea Cole-Briggs, Mesa Riverview property manager, said called the taproom a welcome addition to the center coming at an opportune time. “The opening of Papago Brewing Co. couldn’t have been better timed,” ColeBriggs said in a statement. “The pub’s wide selection of craft beers and oldworld ambiance will provide a comfortable gathering space that we are sure our guests, including the area’s top sports fans and tourists, will heartily embrace.” Leah and Jeff Huss have 35 years of combined experience in the brewing industry. Jeff, a former head brewer for BJ’s Brewing in Chandler, attended the Siebel Institute in Chicago and the Doemens Academy in Munich, Germany. Huss Brewing Co. opened in 2013 with taprooms inside the Tempe brewery. In 2016, Huss acquired the Papago Brewing Company in Scottsdale, creating the newly formed Huss Family of Beers and transforming Huss into the third largest brewer in the state. Although the Scottsdale taproom eventually closed, Leah and Jeff Huss made sure Papago’s pioneering spirit lived on, purchasing Papago Brewing Company in 2016 and expanding the product line to include Papago Cherry Blossom and the brand-new Papago Blueberry Wheat beers. And now approaching nearly two decades of existence in the Arizona marketplace, Huss has taken the iconic brand to the next level with newly designed cans. “This refreshing and iconic brand is almost 18 years old, so we wanted to give it a bright and fresh new feel,” Leah Huss said. “The new cans really showcase the oranges and refreshing nature that has made Papago Orange Blossom one of Arizona’s favorite beers for almost 2 decades.”

GET OUT

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Receive your digital ﬂip-thru edition every week in your e-mail box! CITY HELPING OSTRICH FEST NEEDY SENIORS G RETURNIN PAGE 2

HOUSING STOCK REMAINS TIGHT

MAMMOTH PROJECT AT PECOS, ARIZONA / P. 2

PAGE 17

PAGE 16

CHANDLER ACTOR GOING PLACES / P. 24

From Uptown to Downtown, covering Chandler like the sun.

PAGE 25

like the sun. wn, covering Chandler From Uptown to Downto

An edition of the East

closings possible TU warns selective

This We

Chandler lawmaker defends sports betting's low yield.

COMMUNITY............

January 23, 2022

FREE | chandlernews.com

Valley Tribune

INSIDE ek

NEWS ............................

BIG GO-KART VENUE ON TAP

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

INSIDE

This Week

on as well, should pared to face this situati .” tual learning model it arise. t could not ignore level, administrators But he said the distric “At a District and site BY PAUL MARYNIAK ing upwards trend e learning contintroubl prepar to “the d of t worke impac Arizonan Executive Editor the transmission) have s to shift their learnpa County’s (virus gency plans for school , if staffDistrict has of Marico “the metrics for s to hybrid or fully virtual empe Union High School ” and the fact that t are at ing model old,” he of selectively metric staff within our Distric below a certain thresh fall and raised the possibility ts levels studen ing pe“for a short COMMUNITY............. 21 closing some classes ued. if an all-time high.” available to ACP junior an all-around science/ t-wide return contin emergency measure is a shortage of staff rumors of a distric there riod of time” as an Calling “If below said, fall vil absences r transportation, math whiz. “untrue,” Mendi e instruction and/o teacher and bus driver to virtual learning provid ed plan to t prepar be fully old. as a Distric example, we would an unspeci�ied thresh is our responsibility “It for vil as Mendi Just best. Kevin expect the Superintendent Dr. “I for the worst and nts 15 announcement, �� VIRUS �� 10 plans for �ire incide stressed in his Jan. we have emergency – we do not have any critical that we are prewant to be very clear and lockdowns, it is to a district-wide virintention of returning

s New Chandler clinic provide therapy that matters.

the roost p New rules for e chief, schools boss ste

Fir up amid staff shortages

Chandler fitness expert says count your macros.

BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Staff Writer

BUSINESS ................... 33 makes Chandler strip mall king big on mall sales.

................... 2 NEWS .............................. ................ 21 HEALTH & WELLNESS .................. 25 REAL ESTATE ............... ............... 27 COMMUNITY ............... ....... 33 BUSINESS .............................. ........... 36 SPORTS .............................. .................. 38 CLASSIFIEDS ...............

Tom Dwiggins got Chandler Fire Chief ast Monday morning, they couldn’t �ill staff: They had a shift a phone call from his COVID-19 outbreak. and headed because of the latest he grabbed his gear years, 12 in time So, for the �irst truck. the on shift a out to work in the United States, world, and certainly up “Like the rest of the 45 �ire�ighters come … we’ve had over Eve as Christm since said. 73 City of Chandler positive,” Dwiggins the country. There were they e becaus Cases are up across sday out of the of�ice on Wedne employees who were g from home. who could were workin he does his statested positive. Those crews once a year when Dwiggins rides out with different. tion visits, but this was CHIEF �� 9

rds for years, Chan- SPORTS ........................ 28 s in homeowners' backya After banning chicken new rules to allow as many as five of the g n dler officials are hatchin egg-lovers like Shanno Chandler seniors on the gridiron es. That would satisfy son Zane and honored. birds on their premis empty coop with her her to next g Ellingson, standin ed on page 2. daughter Afton, as explain Staff Photographer) (David Minton/Arizonan

��

even miss you? uld your big bank

480 -855 -628 7

• WES TER NBA NKS

BUSINESS .................... 25

.CO M

Bank where you’re

COMMUNITY .............................. 21

BUSINESS ...................................... 25 more than a number. SPORTS ......................................... 28

CLASSIFIEDS ................................ 30 Member FDIC

May 1, 2022

FREE | chandlernews.com

An edition of the East

City Council grapples with housing hopelessness City hosts landlords to promote vouchers. See page 13 BY KEN SAIN Arizonan Staff Writer

nyone shopping for a home in Chandler knows prices are up. So do city leaders. They met last week to discuss what they could do about it, and the takeaway is that there are steps they are already taking, more they can do – but in the end it won’t matter much. The factors driving up home prices in

Chandler are too strong to change the tide. Council met April 18 in a work session to look at what is being done and what more could be done to make homes in Chandler more affordable. Here are the steps Council was told they could take that would help a little. Rezone some areas of South Chandler to allow for denser populations. Many are currently zoned for no more than 18 units per acre, and with the city running out of empty lots, space is at a premium. More available homes would, in theory, lower demand and relieve some of the upward pressure on prices.

Reduce the setback requirements for new developments. Most new developments must be set back at least 50 feet from roads. By lessening that number to, say, 25 feet, there would be more space available on lots for more homes. Working with developers on any new projects to ensure a certain percentage of the homes they are building will be affordable. Planning Administrator Kevin Mayo said if they ask early in the process, most developers are willing to commit to some affordable units.

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AND KEN SAINS Arizonan News Staff

see LUNCHES page 2

LAST DAYS TO VOTE!

NEWS ........................... 20

Chandler home market slower than other cities.cooling

Hartke, Orlando, Po ston, Encinas win

BY KEN SAIN

Arizonan Managing

seven-member counci Editor l as of January, when for us as a community, the winners take their seats. and what’s more, it is something our busine “I had a couple of people t’s unknown how much sses want.” come up and tell the push for a me Orlando in January non-discrimination that’s why they voted ordinance to protec will begin his sixth for me, so I know t that it’s a contrib term Chandler’s LGBTQ+ on Council after captur uting factor,” Poston community played ing 27% of the said. vote, followed in last week’s electio “We did hear about by Poston with 21% the NDO, and most peon, but the outcom and Ene ple were very likely assures that Chand cinas with 20%. Candid unders tanding and positiv ates Darla Gonzalez ler will adopt that e got 18% and Shifa ordinance in the near about it.” Farhana 14%. Hartke future. won by a 77-to-23% The candidates who The last time Counc margin. il considered an NDO, won the election the �ive-way race for three it failed on a 5-to-2 “I feel honored that vote, with Orlando our City Council seats Chandler voters and have trusted according to unof�ic me with another term,” ial results – incumbent Councilman OD Harris backing it. Hartke Matt Orlando and newco said. “Chandler is the Poston suggested best run city in Arizothe current counci mers Jane Poston l na, I got great name and Angel Encinas – would adopt a non-di recognition, and a great have all shown strong scrimination ordisupport for such measu track record.” nance since the �ive re. opponents can see where things are headin And while Mayor Kevin Poston was buoyed by her victory. g. Hartke won a second term by a huge “It’s been nine month “I would think that margin over challen would be the best res of enormous ger sult possible,” Ruth Jones, his opposi amounts of work,” she she said. “There is tion to a non-discrimsaid. “I felt like I did value in everything ination law will put having the Council I could, so no matter him in a minority on move forward togeth what hapthe in the right er direction. It’s a positiv e move

Local food banks see rising

BY KEN SAIN

Arizonan Managing

GETOUT ................. 33

Young Chandler thespian s in big musical reprise.

Dana Alvidrez, city transportation engineer for Chandler, references a graphic illustrating road traffic inside the Traffic Management COMMUNITY ............................. 24 Center. Turns out the city looked into whether artificial intelli- BUSINE SS ..................................... gence can help traffic ﬂow on Chandler streets. For the surprising 29 GET OUT .............................. conclusion, see page 8. (David Minton/Staff Photographer) ......... 33

CLASSIFIEDS ...............

................. 36

like the sun.

FREE | chandlernews.com

August 7, 2022

HEAD OVER TO CHANDLERNEWS.COM AND VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES!

see HOUSING page 3

School lunch programs About those traffic jams face reductions here

he universal free meals that school districts serving northern Chandler have been providing to their students for two years could end this summer – as they could in virtually all schools. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky) apparently told fellow Republicans the program was never intended to be permanent and many Senate Republicans object to the $11 billion annual price tag as the federal deficit continues to grow, according to reports in salon.com, Politico and other news sites. Republicans want schools to return to pre-pandemic operation that provided free lunches – and in many cases, breakfasts – only to kids whose families met federal guidelines for low-income recipients, according to those reports. The move will impact Kyrene, Chandler Unified and Tempe Union High School districts. “Currently universal free meals will expire on June 30,” said Jenny Bracamonte, director of food and nutrition operations for CUSD. “At that point we will transition back to a traditional [National School

s Week

From Uptown to Downto wn, covering Chandler

Valley Tribune

INSIDE Thi

Editor

�� ELECTION ��

rganizers say that even in the best of times, feeding those in need is a challenge. And these are not the best of times. Chandler’s leading food banks say demand is up, and donati ons are down. “Yeah, things have de�initely increased,” said Mike Dippre, who is the operations director at Matthew’s Crossing Food Bank. “We just went to, we were once a month service before COVID . “We went to once a week service during COVID, and we just switched back to twice Volunteer Carol Anderson organizes and creates a month on July 1 just boxes of food to send to try and control our ing Food Bank in Chandler. (David out at Matthews CrossMinton/Arizonan Staff quantities of food that Photographer) we’re handing out.” about 110 families Dippre said even a day. And the numbe with r weeks, we’ve given they are averaging handin that restriction, is going up. out more food this g out groceries to “And believe it or not, doing it every two

Easy-To-Read Digital Edition

Subscribe here

www.chandlernews.com

need, falling help

�� HUNGER PAGE 8

CALL TO ADVERTISE 480-898-6465

NOW HIRING

JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG LOCAL JOBS. LOCAL PEOPLE.

36 JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG / JOBS.PHOENIX.ORG

FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Join Our

TEAM In Mesa

HIRING NOW FOR: • General Laborer

CMC Steel Arizona has proudly been making the steel that builds America since 2009.

• Shipping & Inventory Crane Operator

We are hiring immediately for all skilled

• Maintenance Mechanics/ Electricians

our new, state of the art micro mill from the

• Production Operator And more!

operator positions to be part of building ground up! At CMC, we offer great benefits and provide all necessary training and certifications.

Scan to see all job openings!

CLASSIFIEDS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Ahwatukee Chandler Gilbert Glendale Mesa North Valley Peoria Phoenix SanTan Scottsdale Queen Creek West Valley

CLASSIFIEDS.PHOENIX.ORG To Advertise Call: 480-898-6500 or email Class@TimesLocalMedia.com

Sell Your Stuff!

MISCELLANEOUS - FOR SALE Diabetic Test Strips by the box, unused. Any type or brand. Will pay top dollar.

Call Classifieds Today! 480.898.6500

Call Pat 480-323-8846

CLASSIFIEDS@TIMESLOCALMEDIA.COM

SERVICE DIRECTORY AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING WINTER IS HERE, ARE YOU PREPARED: Offering A wide variety of service plans, that will SAVE YOU MONEY on your electric bill as well as EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR UNIT. UNIT Call for more information or scan the QR Code. CONTACT US TODAY TO BOOK YOUR DELUXE 20 POINT TUNE UP

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

CLEANING SERVICES

Family Owned & Operated

WOULD YOU LIKE TO COME HOME TO A CLEAN HOUSE?

Three Phase Mechanical

480-671-0833

www.3phasemech.com

REG. $119

We are offering $40 OFF TO MAKE SURE YOU ARE WINTER READY!

You deserve to RELAX after a long day! LET TWO MAIDS & A MOP CLEAN YOUR HOME FOR YOU!

Sales, Service & Installation

BESTOF

2022

NO TRIP CHARGE • NOT COMMISSION BASED

480-725-7303 BESTOF

2021

40 Years Serving the Central Valley

ROC# 247803 Bonded • Insured

ACCREDITED BUSINESS

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

SINCE 1982 • ROC #C39-312643

Call today to become a part of the Two Maids Team!

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

CONCRETE/MARSONRY

QUALITY, VALUE and a GREAT PRICE!

Block Fence * Gates

Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship New 3-Ton 14 SEER AC Systems Only $5,995 INSTALLED! New Trane Air Conditioners NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 MONTHS!

PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating & Air $49 Seasonal

A/C Tune-up!

Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252

480-405-7588

480-531-9654 Licensed & Insured

Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online! Classifieds 480-898-6465

No deductible, no annual maximum

Preventive care starts right away

See any dentist — save more if you stay in network

Get your

FREE

Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly recurring options available. First time customers only. One time use. Mention this ad for the offer. Offer expires 1/31/2023.

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

It doesn’t matter what dentist you see, we can help pay the bill. Get dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

20 OFF

Monday-Friday 8am-5pm • Closed Weekends

NOW HIRING

Get help paying big dental bills

1st Recurring Cleaning

480-550-8282 • www.twomaidsgilbert.com

License #000825-2018

DENTAL Insurance

602-789-6929 Roc #057163

Information Kit

Lowest Prices * 30 Yrs Exp Serving Entire Valley

1-855-389-4273

YOU’LL LIKE US - THE BEST!

Product not available in all states. Contact us to see the coverage and offer available in your state. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation including costs and limitations. This specific offer is not available in CO. Call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for a similar offer. In WV: To find a provider in the network visit us at https://www. physiciansmutual.com/web/dental/find-dentist. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E); Insurance Policy P150; Rider Kinds B438/ B439. In CA, CO, ID, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, MO, NV, NJ, NC, ND, VA: Includes Participating Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Certificate C254/B465 (PA: C254PA); Insurance Policy P154/B469 (GA: P154GA; OK: P154OK; TN: P154TN).

Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet. Please recycle me.

Dental50Plus.com/214

6323

CLASSIFIEDS

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Decks • Tile • More!

HANDYMAN

ELECTRICAL SERVICES HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY

• Panel Changes and Repairs • Installation of Ceiling Fans • Switches/Outlets • Home Remodel

- Ahw Resident Since 1987 -

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! Painting Marks the Spot for ALL•Your Handyman Needs! Painting Flooring •✔Electrical “No Job Too Water Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall •✔Small Carpentry Man!” Heaters Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Decks • Tile • More! ✔ Electrical 1999 e Sinc k Decks Tile • More! le, Quality•Wor Affordab 2010, 2011 ✔ Plumbing 2012, 2013, 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 ✔ Drywall

“No Job Too Small Man!”

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

ALL RESIDENTIAL & Roger Kretz COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL 480.233.0336 2014 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 2012, 2013, Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932 rogerkretz@yahoo.com 2014 References/ Insured/ /Not a Licensed Contractor Ahwatukee Resident References Insured Call Ahwatukee BruceResident/ at 602.670.7038 Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ a Licensed Contractor Not a Not Licensed Contractor

GARAGE/DOORS

HAULING/BULK TRASH

H A N DY M A N G A R AG E DOO R S E RV I C E

DUMPING DAVE

4 8 0 -2 5 1 - 8 61 0

East Valley Ahwatukee

Bonded • Insured

GLASS/MIRROR GLASS, MIRRORS, SHOWER DOORS Family Owned with 50 years' EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures, Framed, Frameless or Custom Doors, We also install insulated glass, mirrored closet doors, window glass, mirrors, patio doors, glass table protectors. If it’s glass, we can help you. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices. FREE Estimates WESLEY'S GLASS & MIRROR Call 480-306-5113 • wesleysglass.com • SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY

MALDONADO HOME REPAIR SERVICES CALL DOUG

480.201.5013

THE HANDYMAN THAT HANDLES SMALL JOBS THAT OTHERS DECLINE ✔ Interior/Exterior Painting ✔ Lighting ✔ Replace Cracked Roof Tiles

✔ Gate Restoration ✔ Plumbing Repairs ✔ Ceiling Fan Install ✔ All Odds & Ends ✔ & MUCH MORE!

• Furniture • Appliances • Mattresses • Televisions • Garage Clean-Out • Construction Debris

*Not A Licensed Contractor

Call 480-898-6500

Specializing in Controllers, Valves, Sprinklers, Landscape Lighting, P.V.C. & Poly Drip Systems

CALL US TODAY!

480.721.4146 www.irsaz.com

ROC# 256752

IRRIGATION

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Juan Hernandez

SPRINKLER Drip/Install/Repair & Tune ups! Not a licensed contractor

25 years exp. Call Now (480) 720-3840

• Old Paint & Chems. • Yard Waste • Concrete Slab • Remodeling Debris • Old Tires

Dave Ellsworth 480-360-JUNK (5865) I’m a 6th grade Mesa teacher working my 2nd job.

New Drywall - Patch and Repair Removal - Texture

LANDSCAPE/DESIGN

FREE ESTIMATES 480.246.6011

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Juan R Hernández: Lawn Maintenance/Design Irrigation, Pavers, Lighting, Plumbing. Reliable & Dependable. 30 year exp. 480-720-3840

General Contracting, Inc.

LANDSCAPE/MAINTENANCE

www.professionalhomerepairservice.com ROC-326923 ROC-326924 • Licensed-Bonded-Insured

H E AHEADSTONES D STO N E S

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC118198

One Call, We Do It All! 602-339-4766 EVERLASTING MONUMENT Co.

“Memories cut in Stone” • MONUMENTS • GRANITE & BRONZE • CEMETERY LETTERING • CUSTOM DESIGNS

480-969-0788 75 W. Baseline Rd. Ste. A-8 Gilbert, AZ 85233

www.everlastingmonumentco.com info@everlastingmonument.phxcoxmail.com

Make your choice Everlasting

go ONLINE ANY Day! MISSED THE DEADLINE? YourCallAdtocan place your ad online! Place your ad online! Classifieds 480-898-6465 Ahwatukee Resident, References Available, Insured

25+ Years of Customer Services

• Leaky Roof Repairs • Tile Repairs • Painting • Flat Roof Coating • Wood Repair • Doors & Windows

RECYCLE • REMOVAL • DEMOLITIONS

A FRIEND IN ME HANDYMAN

HANDYMAN

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

JUNK REMOVAL I Haul it All Big & Small!

HANDYMAN Honey-Do List Electrical, Plumbing, Drywall, Painting & Home Renovations. *Not a licensed contractor. Call Greg 480-510-2664 AFriendInMeHandyman@gmail.com

Irrigation Repair Services Inc.

HOME ✔ Carpentry SERVICES “No Job Too

✔ Decks “For all your Home “No Job Small Too Man!” ✔ Tile Exterior Needs” Small Man!” ✔ Kitchens 9 199 rk Since ✔ Bathrooms Affordable, Quality Wo 2010, 2011 rk Since 1999 And2010, More! 2012, 2013, Affordable, Quality Wo 2011

Broken Springs Replaced • Nights / Weekends

IRRIGATION

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Owner Does All Work, All Honey-Do Lists All Remodeling, Additions, Kitchen, Bath, Patio Covers, Garage, Sheds, Windows, Doors, Drywall & Roofing Repairs, Painting, All Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Block, Stucco, Stack Stone, All Flooring, Wood, Tile, Carpet, Welding, Gates, Fences, All Repairs.

Free Estimates with Pride & Prompt Service!

IRRIGATION IRRIGATION

CUTTING EDGE

ALL Pro

T R E E

S E R V I C E

L L C

Prepare for Spring Season!

LANDSCAPING, TREES & MAINTENANCE

Tree Trimming • Tree Removal Stump Grinding • Artificial Grass Storm Damage • Bushes/Shrubs Yard Clean-up Commercial and Residential PMB 435 • 2733 N. Power Rd. • Suite 102 • Mesa dennis@allprotrees.com

Landscapes LLC

480-354-5802

Specializing In: • Sprinkler/Irrigation Repair & Replacement • Custom Landscapes • Lighting • Pavers • Artificial Turf • Concrete • Block • Trees/Plants • Rock & More

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online!

Call Now!

480-654-5600 AZIrrigation.com

Insured/Bonded Free Estimates

ROC 281671 • Bonded-Insured

Call 480-898-6500

CLASSIFIEDS

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

LANDSCAPE/MAINTENANCE Juan Hernandez

TREE

PLUMBING

ROOFING

Cobra Plumbing LLC

PHILLIPS

Drain Cleaning Experts, water heaters, disposals, water & sewer lines repaired/replaced. Rapid Response!

TRIMMING 25 Years exp

(480) 720-3840

If water runs through it we do it!

602-663-8432

Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Roofing Maintenance Specialist - Shingle & Tile Roofs Elastomeric Roof Coatings

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

480-338-4011

ROC# 309706

PLUMBING

CURE ALL PLUMBING FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

Full Service Plumbing No Job Too Small!

H Drain & Sewer Cleaning H Water Heaters H Faucets H Fixtures H Electronic Leak Locating H Slab Leaks

H Repiping H Sewer Video & Locating H Backflow Testing & Repair H Sprinkler Systems & Repairs H Water Treatment Sales & Service

480-895-9838

✔ Free Estimates ✔ Senior Discounts! RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ROC #204797

PLUMBING

PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH! FREE Service Calls + FREE Estimates Water Heaters Installed - $999 Unclog Drains - $49

10% OFF

All Water Purification Systems Voted #1 Plumber 3 Years In A Row OVER 1,000 5-STAR REVIEWS

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

480-405-7099

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

BESTOF

2022

new equipment w/installation

Now thru February 2023. Pumps, Filters, Heaters, Salt Systems, Automation, Handrails. Call for details.

ROOFING LLC Family Owned and Operated 43 Years Experience in Arizona

$100 Off HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING

ROOFING

commercial and residential

POOL SERVICE/REPAIR

PAINTING

Best Pool Service

• Weekly Service • Equipment Repair/Replacement • Equipment Maintenance • Handrails • Green Pool Clean Up • Drain/Acid Wash

480-694-1158

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

Free Estimates Monday through Saturday

ROOFING

623-873-1626

Tom’s Painting LLC Roofing & Painting

Licensed 2006 ROC 223367 Bonded Insured

Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC 337086

FREE WEEKLY SERVICE ESTIMATES

POOL SERVICE/REPAIR

PhillipsRoofing.org PhillipsRoofing@cox.net

Juan Hernandez Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!

SPECIAL! $500 OFF COMPLETE REMODEL! 25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

Call Juan at

480-720-3840

• Roof Repairs • Roof Coatings • Painting Exterior • Residential & Commercial

Over 30 Years of Experience

Family Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers! Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

480-699-2754 • info@monsoonroofinginc.com

Valley Wide Service

Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet. Please recycle me.

with this ad FREE ESTIMATES

ROOFING

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING

Licensed – Bonded – Insured – ROC187561

10% OFF

George Carr - Owner ROC# 197687 Bonded/Licensed/Insured 480.297.2585

ROOFING

MonsoonRooﬁngInc.com

Serving All Of The Valley

Why Get The Rest When You Can Hire The Best!

Not a licensed contractor.

10% Discount for Ahwatukee Residents 100% NO Leak Guarantee Re-Roof & Roofing Repairs Tile, Shingles & Flat Roof

480-446-7663 FREE Estimates • Credit Cards OK www.spencer4hireroofing.com ROC#244850 | Insured | Bonded

THE CHANDLER ARIZONAN | WWW.CHANDLERNEWS.COM | FEBRUARY 19, 2023

tune up your smile with the doc that rocks! 2022

2020

Chan

dler

• Gilb

ert •

BESTOF

2022

BESTOF

2021

Chandler • Gilbert • Mesa

Mesa

BESTOF

2022

2021

, great DENTISTry. that s how we roll.

480.899.4477 chandler, az