Ahwatukee Foothills News - March 14, 2018 by Times Media Group

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Wednesday, March 14, 2018

COMING THROUGH

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Water remains an elusive problem for Club West course

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

heaper water could come to Club West Golf Course by the middle of next year – but it may be too late to immediately remedy its deteriorating condition and it may not come at all unless someone comes up with as much as $1.2 million to pay for a new pipeline. Both the short- and long-term future today

remains clouded for a golf course that is the heart of a community of about 2,400 homes. While the course looked like a golfer’s paradise less than three months ago after Richard Breuninger became the new owner, the greens are rapidly browning and the small lake is drying up after the city shut off the water three weeks ago for nonpayment of a bill reportedly totaling more than $200,000. Mike Hinz, vice president of the Foothills Club West Community Association board,

said he met with Breuninger twice in the past 10 days and that he appeared to have reached a short-term solution to the water problem. “I think they’re very, very close to coming to an arrangement,” said Hinz of Breuninger and the Phoenix Water Services Department. “He’s got a temporary solution, and I think there’s something they can work out.” Stressing that the HOA is powerless to do

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS Classroom spending rose Now for the beans BAGS AS ART

See

CLUB WEST on page 16

in Kyrene, TU last year BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services AND PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

. 20

TEACHING TECH

. 31

VAULTING TO FAME

. 44

lassroom spending per pupil in Kyrene and Tempe Union High School districts last school year exceeded both the averages for districts their size and the state as a whole, according to the Arizona Auditor General. The AG’s latest annual report shows that while most East Valley districts’ per-pupil spending on administration costs last year was well below the same averages, they were higher in both Tempe Elementary and Tempe Union High School districts than the averages for districts their size and all school districts statewide. The average per-pupil spending on instruction by Tempe Union exceeded the average for districts its size, $4,338 to $4,035. However, its per-pupil spending on instruction fell below the statewide average of $4,377. Tempe Elementary’s per-pupil expen-

diture for instruction was the highest among all East Valley districts at $4,700. It also topped all East Valley districts for the total cost of educating one student – $11,299. That includes all expenditures, from transportation to maintenance. Tempe Union’s administrative costs per pupil of $898 were higher than the average $796 spent by districts its size and above the statewide average of $844. Tempe Union spokeswoman Jennifer Liewer said, “There are many factors that go into calculating administrative averages.” “TUHSD actually has less administrators per student than our peer districts and the state average. We do have very seasoned administrators in our district and not a lot of turn over,” she added. On the other hand, Kyrene’s per pupil costs for administrators – $586 – was significantly lower than the $796 average for districts its size as well as the statewide average of $844. See

SPEND on page 14

(Kimberly Carrillo/AFNPhotographerr)

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

Freeway crews prepare to move on South Mountain Park BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

he Arizona Department of Transportation and Connect202Partners are beginning one of the most controversial phases of the South Mountain Freeway project. ADOT last week announced that crews are setting the stage for construction of the freeway’s three-mile “central segment” through the southwestern edge of South Mountain Park. The eight-lane highway will require Connect202Partners, the consortium of companies that is designing and building the freeway, to cut a 200-foot-wide swath across three peaks. That plan has been vehemently opposed by the Gila River Indian Community and nearly two dozen Southwestern U.S. tribes because Native Americans consider South Mountain a sacred site. However, the tribes failed to convince federal courts that highway planners had not conducted sufficient study to avoid what Native Americans called the desecration of the mountain, which they call “Muhadagi doag.” The 22-mile freeway is envisioned as a detour around I-10’s heavily congested Horseshoe Curve and downtown Phoenix by connecting the 59th Avenue and Chandler interchanges on the interstate. The $1.7 billion freeway – the most expensive highway project in state history – is scheduled to be completed near the end of next year. The initial work signals an acceleration of the project. Up till now, crews have been focusing on three of the four segments of the freeway and ADOT has consistently said work on the central portion would not begin until the middle of this year. For now, ADOT said, “crews have already started creating right-of-way fencing and surveying to identify and tag trees and cactuses in the path of construction that are good candidates for salvage. “Over the next few months, hundreds of plants that eventually will be replanted along the freeway will be removed and placed in a temporary nursery,” it added. Crews with heavy equipment have already started examining the condition of soil and rock and the depth of groundwater in the central segment. “These geotechnical investigations, which occur on every freeway expansion project, allow engineers to plan for pavement, bridges, walls and drainage structures,” ADOT said.

(Arizona Department of Transportation)

The freeway route is roughly near the power lines left of center in this photo and will then angle toward the mountains and require a 200-foot-wide path through South Mountain Park.

Part of the work also requires construction of temporary access roads over the next few months so that work crews can reach the intended path of the freeway through South Mountain. ADOT also said that controlled blasting will begin in May along two ridges “to break large rock into smaller, more manageable pieces as crews create a path for the freeway.” The mountain portion of the freeway will be “partially elevated to minimize the amount of earth removed from the mountains,” ADOT said. It also said periodic traffic restrictions are anticipated on 51st Avenue, Dusty Lane and Ivanhoe Street in Phoenix. Gila Community opponents of the freeway two years ago vowed to try to stop construction in the area even if they had to lay down in the path of bulldozers. But those opponents had been noticeably absent from public view even before a federal appeals court rejected tribal efforts to halt the project. Long before the court fight even began, ADOT devoted considerable attention to the sensitive issue of how the freeway would affect South Mountain. In its lengthy environmental impact

study, the agency admitted, “The South Mountains are highly valued by Native American communities,” noting that most Native American tribes “consider the South Mountains sacred, playing a role in their culture, identity, history and oral traditions.” The impact study even acknowledged that the freeway “might be perceived as severing the community’s spiritual connection to the mountains.” ADOT insisted during the court fight that “the project will affect a minute fraction of Phoenix South Mountain,” noting that the freeway will occupy “just 0.2 percent of the area’s 16,600 acres” and that it “incorporates multiple measures to minimize impacts.” “Measures to minimize harm to the South Mountains resources were determined through direct coordination with resource owners, agencies with jurisdiction, and with other stakeholders and users,” the impact study said. ADOT conceded in the study, “The intrusion of the proposed freeway into the South Mountains, including especially the cuts into three ridgelines, would likely be perceived as severe by many members of the Community.”

It said “several measures were analyzed to entirely avoid or further reduce impacts associated with the cuts through the three ridgelines,” including two located within the South Mountain Preserve. But it said that “after careful deliberation, these measures were dropped from further consideration.” The two measures most studied involved tunneling beneath the mountains or erecting bridges over the area. But two alternative bridge studies showed the spans would cost either $232 million, or 21 percent of the project’s total construction cost, or $323 million, 29 percent of the project’s total cost. Those plans “were determined to not be prudent,” the impact study said. Other problems were foreseen as well. “The bridge alternatives would increase visual impacts for views from the South Mountains to adjacent land and from adjacent land to the South Mountains,” the study said. A bridge also “could result in hazardous materials restrictions along the entire proposed action. Therefore, hazardous cargo carriers would have to continue to use exSee

FREEWAY on page 3

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS UKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS FOOTHILLS NEWS MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS from page 1 TUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS The Ahwatukee Foothills News is published every AHWATUKEE NEWS Wednesday and distributed free ofFOOTHILLS charge to homes and isting routes.” in single-copy locations throughout Ahwatukee Foothills. UKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS Driver safety also was a consideration, ADOT said,

NEWS

FREEWAY

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Phoenix area.” Moreover, if there was an accident, steep grades and the distance would hamper rescue efforts. The study also noted that bridges would “require drilling and blasting for the numerous pier foundations, which would result in permanent scarring and excavation of the ridges.” The study said also nixed tunnels, noting the expense that would result from “necessary bridges, cut slopes for the tunnel entrances, retaining walls, fill slopes for the approaches and potential ventilation.” “Costs to maintain and operate the tunnel – estimated to be between $1.5 million and $2 million a year – are not prudent, ADOT said. “Costs include full-time staffing of ventilation buildings, major equipment repairs, and tunnel rehabilitation.” Instead, the study listed “other measures to minimize the alteration of the” South Mountain landscape.” “Because of the potential for the ridgeline cuts to introduce forms, lines, colors and textures distinctly different from the existing ridgelines, design measures would be implemented to blend the appearance of the cuts with the surrounding natural environment, as feasible,” it said. The study said ADOT will work with the Phoenix City Manager’s office “on behalf of the Sonoran Preserve Advisory Committee, Phoenix Parks and Recreation Board, and Phoenix Mountains Preservation Council. The goal will be “establishing a slope treatment plan for cut slopes through the ridgelines, with the clear intent to blend as well as would be possible the cut slopes with the South Mountains’ natural setting.” While South Mountain Park “has a system of paved roads used for internal circulation and access to the education center, ranger station, scenic lookouts, and other park amenities,” ADOT conceded the freeway “would introduce another intensive human-made use into another wise passive, natural setting.” The study identified scores of plants and creatures that would be affected by the freeway. It also noted that while the affected area has no trails, “uncontrolled access to the park does occur” as the result of hikers, equestrians and Native Americans who use it. “Five multi-use underpass crossings, providing wildlife and (Gila) Community members with connection points to the mountains and provide a crossing for a Maricopa County trail,” ADOT said.

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Correction

The wrong contact information appeared in last week’s Best of Ahwatukee section for Foothills Pool, second-place winner for best pool service. Foothills Pool is at 3961 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwtaukee. Information: 480-444-9225 or foothillspool.com.

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

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mong the many things that can be said about Craig Marshall is this: He heeded the inspiration he came across at several points in his young life. The Ahwatukee man is attending Stony Brook University School of Medicine as a Medical Scientist Training Program Fellow. He recently finished the first semester of an eight-year program funded by the National Institutes of Health, and by the time he is done he will hold both M.D. and Ph.D. degrees and start his medical residency. Marshall, a 2012 Desert Vista High School graduate who graduated in May 2016 cum laude with a biochemistry degree from the University of Arizona, aims to get into genetics and specialize in gene therapy or translational science, said his mother, Ann.

And throughout his life, he’s had inspirational encounters with professors and others that put him on that path. “He was always interested in science and loved biology and chemistry,” she recalled. “As a kid, he was always mixing things together to see what would happen, and I would often find shampoo and bath soap mixed with strange things.” “I also know he intentionally would make things bubble up and blow up in chemistry lab. So sorry, Desert Vista,” she added. In high school, a teacher introduced his class to techniques and practices that are used in scientific labs. “He loved the class, although he said she was a really hard teacher,” his mom said. “It was because of that class, and what he learned, that he was able to start getting into meaningful work in the lab See

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

BASIS Ahwatukee students protest school shootings AFN News Staff

tudents at BASIS Ahwatukee staged a brief walkout last Friday to commemorate the 14 young people and three adult staffers who were slain in the school shooting last month in Florida. Organized by sophomores Lydie Svitak and Hannah Littler and freshman Jordyn Hitzerman, the walkout also focused on issues in the wake of the slayings. “Instead of the traditional 17 minutes

of silence at 10 a.m., I advocated for us to use the time in remembrance of the 17 lives lost in Florida in order to discuss and enact change, because those students would want us to know that we deserve the right to safety within the education system, and want us to fight for that,” Lydie said, adding: “’As long as lawmakers refuse to guarantee our safety in that system, we will refuse to be silent’ was the message I hoped to spread.”

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Lydie said the school administration “was not outright supportive of our protest, of course, but many staff members joined in for the walkout.” “After seeing the amazing turnout, hearing the inspiring speeches we organized, and observing what a forceful movement us students were capable of, the administration and my parents told us how proud they were that we took initiative to start something like this and really establish our small charter as a presence.” A member of the National Honor Society and speech and debate club, Lydie said she had never organized a protest before, but that she hopes “to organize further events for positive action on our campus.” Jordyn thought the administration “was more supportive than I could have imagined.” “My purpose for doing this was and still

is that we need to show our legislators that we have a voice, and that we are not just kids, we are people who deserve to feel safe at school,” Jordyn said. “Hundreds of schools across the nation are participating in walkouts and as that number grows, the louder our message becomes.” All three girls praised the administration, noting that while it could not condone the walkout, it did not reprimand participants either. “I helped start the school’s speech and debate team, but I’ve never organized on a large political scale,” said Hannah, who is captain of interpretation speech events and coaches the middle school speech and debate team. “As an aspiring writer, I always think giving a voice to people is empowering; the walkout seemed to do exactly that,” Hannah added.

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Hannah Littler was one of the organizers of a brief student walkout last Friday at BASIS Ahwatukee in remembrance of the victim’s of last month’s Florida school massacre.

NEWS

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

NEIGHBORS

from page 4

he volunteered at while at U of A.” Even his involvement in track and football at high school pointed him toward medicine He suffered a broken leg as a freshman and tore his ACL as a sophomore, both injuries requiring surgeries and physical therapy. “One of the physicians treating his high school sports injuries saw his interest in the medical field and suggested he apply for the Chandler Healthcare West (now Dignity Health) Volunteen program,” his mom said. He spent three summers at an urgent care facility, graduating from stocking cabinets and supplies to becoming more involved in patient care. Between football injuries, he was on the varsity track team and threw shot and discus, as well as competed in pole vault, high jump and an occasional running event. Then, as a university sophomore, Marshall began working as a research assistant in the lab of Dr. Robert Erickson, director of pediatric genetics and helping him with experiments

on the genes from mice to treat a rare pediatric disease called Niemann Pick Type C disease. “While working at this lab, he met families of children with this disease and got to see firsthand the people the doctor was working to help,” Ann Marshall said. “This research work got him interested in better understanding the underlying mechanisms that are a part of diseases and conditions that affect people, He became interested in better understanding why the genes someone has makes them more likely to get a certain disease and then why people with a certain gene, or gene mutation respond to treatments in a certain way that may be different than other people.” If he gets into translational medicine Marshall will be translating research results into practical courses of treatment for people suffering from a given disease or disorder. His parents, Hank and Ann, are 21year residents of Ahwatukee. Although he’s busy with his studies, Marshall still finds time to relax. “He still loves playing video games and tells me his favorite is ‘League of Legends,’” his mother said.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

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measure to help teachers pay for classroom supplies cleared a critical hurdle last week as state lawmakers resurrected it from political death. But its future still remains uncertain. On a 34-20 margin, the House approved ( AFNfile photo) HB 2377, which allo- Treasures for Teachers was started by Ahwatukee resident Barbara Blalock in cates $8.7 million this 2004 as a way to get needed classroom supplies that teachers didn’t have to coming school year pay for. This is one room in the nonprofit’s Tempe warehouse. that teachers can use for everything from pencils and paper to The vote came exactly two weeks after sheet music. That translates to about $150 the identical measure went down to deper teacher. feat with just 23 lawmakers in favor. That The same measure also provides a left it to Republican Rep. Todd Cloddollar-for-dollar tax credit for teachers felter and Democrat Rep. Kirsten Engel, against what they owe in state income both from Tucson, to lobby colleagues to taxes for their out-of-pocket expenses, up to another $150 a year. See SUPPLIES on page 10

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

from page 8

change their minds. While the measure has bipartisan support, it also has bipartisan opposition. Clodfelter told Capitol Media Services he may have to make alterations to ensure the measure survives in the Republican-controlled Senate, where it now goes. But Engel, who originally had proposed a much larger appropriation, said she will oppose further dilution of the legislation. Central to the issue is the broad consensus that many teachers are using their own money to buy supplies that are not provided by their schools. Where there is a difference of opinion is how best to deal with that problem. The measure has been opposed by some of the more fiscally conservative Republicans. That is not necessarily a surprise, given the potential $17 million annual price tag for both the outright appropriation and the tax credit in a year when some want to use whatever extra dollars are available for tax breaks. But the bipartisan legislation also drew flak from some Democrats who said the measure draws attention away from dealing with what they say is the real solution:

adequately funding schools and increasing teacher salaries. “This bill cannot substitute for the state fulfilling their obligation, in my opinion, or their responsibility to provide public resources for school supplies for every child in every classroom,’’ said Rep. Rosanna Gabaldon, D-Green Valley. Rep. Gerae Peten, D-Goodyear, was even harsher in her criticism, saying that this legislation amounts to “throwing pennies’’ at the problem of inadequate funding. “I consider it an insult to offer this to teachers and think that it’s going to make a significant difference in the budgeting,’’ she said. “It does not.’’ Peten also pointed out that state and local spending comes down to about $7,500 a student. “We spend three times that amount to incarcerate an inmate,’’ she said. Rep. Mitzi Epstein, D-Tempe, saw the issue from a different perspective. “This does not fix the teacher shortage,’’ she said, saying some teachers have referred to this as “more crumbs.’’ Rep. Noel Campbell, R-Prescott, said foes of the bill are half-right. “This is not a fix,’’ he said. “And we know that.’’

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Teachers’ leader said a strike over pay may be necessary in Arizona BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

he head of the statewide teachers union said last week that a strike may be necessary to get salaries closer to where he believes they should be. But not this year. “A lot of work has to be done, a lot of storytelling has to happen so that people understand what the real issues are,’’ said Joe Thomas, president of the Arizona Education Association. He told Capitol Media Services that the issues involve “support and respect.’’ “Part of that comes as class size, part of that comes as a salary that keeps you in the state,’’ Thomas said, adding that the 1.06 percent hike for this school year approved by lawmakers and a promise for an identical amount next year, is not going to cut it. “Our teachers need to see something north of 5 percent,’’ which would bring salaries close to what they are in surrounding states, Thomas said. But Thomas conceded that still leaves

the question of whether anything will change if the estimated 50,000 public school teachers or a significant share of them abandon their classrooms for the picket line. The issue arises in the wake of teachers in West Virginia securing a 5 percent pay hike from state lawmakers there after walking off their jobs. Education Week reports average salaries there already are close to $2,000 higher than they are here, even before the new boost. Thomas said that did not go unnoticed here. But he also said his conversation with counterparts in West Virginia convinces him that kind of action doesn’t just happen. “It’s months of discussions that lead to that frustration level,’’ he said. Thomas said some of that was on dis(Howard Fischer/Capitol Medica Services)

Joe Thomas, president of the Arizona Education Association says teachers may have to strike to get adquate pay increases.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

from page 1

Per pupil instruction spending was significantly higher in 2016-17 than the previous school year, the Auditor General said. In Kyrene, instruction spending went from $4,059 in the year that Superintendent Jan Vesely started her job to $4,494 last school year. Tempe Union’s per-pupil instruction spending rose from $4,088 to $4,338 int eh same time period. A large infusion of new cash resulted in the first increase in years in the percentage of dollars that schools are putting into the classroom. The AG reported that 53.8 cents of every dollar spent this past school year went to instruction statewide. That largely includes salaries and benefits for teachers and aides as well as instructional supplies like pencils and paper, instructional software, athletics, band and choir. That compares with 53.5 cents for the prior year. It is also the first increase in 13 years. But Auditor General Debra Davenport said the instructional share is still 4.8 percent below the high point in 2004. And even after adjusting for inflation, total per pupil spending is $146 less now than it was in 2004. The infusion of some additional dollars is reflected in average per-pupil instructional spending across the East Valley. Mesa Public Schools had the lowest year-over-year increase – $10. What’s fueling this year’s bump is an additional nearly $341.8 million put into public schools, largely because of voter approval in 2016 of Proposition 123. Most of that cash came from the state land trust, proceeds from the sale and lease of state lands that already were being held in reserve for schools. Of that total, Davenport reported, more than $200 million went into instruction. Still, Arizona remains below the national average of 60.7 cents of every dollar going into instruction. But Davenport said there are some reasons for that. On one hand, she said the additional dollars allowed school district average pay to increase by 4.3 percent, to $48,372. But even with that increase, Davenport said salaries here are about 17 percent below the national average. The report also says the state spends less than average on instruction simply

Per-pupil education costs in the East Valley This table for the 2016-17 school year includes per-pupil figures from the state Auditor General’s annual report on school spending in Arizona. The statewide average per-pupil administrative cost was $844 and the average per-pupil spending for instruction statewide was $4,377. The average per-pupil cost of all district spending statewide was $9,653 in the last school year.

DISTRICT

ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS

INSTRUCTION

ALL SPENDING

Chandler $597 $4,402 $9,978 Gilbert $628 $4,465 $8,363 Higley $664 $3,865 $8,654 Kyrene $586 $4,944 $9,373 Mesa $682 $4,535 $9,199 Queen Creek $744 $4,054 $9,450 Tempe Elementary $901 $4,700 $11,299 Tempe Union $898 $4,338 $9,132 by putting more students into classrooms. The average class size in Arizona is 18.6; the figure is 16 nationally. But Davenport said the lower-than-average percentage of each dollar spent in the classroom cannot be blamed on administrative costs. Arizona schools put an average of 10.4 percent into the category that includes superintendents, principals, business managers, clerical staff, warehousing, printing and human resources. That compares with 11.2 percent nationally. Overall, the study finds that Arizona spends far less on its students than the national average – $8,141 in operational costs versus $11,454. That correlates with contentions by school officials that at least part of the reason they are spending less on instruction is that there are other fixed costs over which they have little control. It also plugs in to the argument that schools are having to divert the limited state dollars they get to capital needs, including computers, books and buses – money that could otherwise be used in the classroom. That is at the heart of a lawsuit pending in Maricopa County Superior Court accusing the governor and lawmakers of failing to live up to their constitutional obligation to provide dollars for those costs. Plaintiffs in that lawsuit, including some school districts and education groups, contend the shortfall is in the neighborhood of $300 million a year. In January, Gov. Doug Ducey announced a plan to eventually restore full funding for the “district additional assistance” account – the one that funds textbooks, computers, school buses and some

capital needs – to bring it back to the $371 million it should be according to state Here is the change in per-pupil classroom spending law. between the 2015-16 and 2016-17 school years in East But to date the Valley districts, according to the state Auditor General. Legislature has DISTRICT not acted on that Chandler $36 proposal and the Gilbert $330 judge just last Higley $669 month refused Kyrene $435 to dismiss the Mesa $10 case. Queen Creek $786 Christine Me Tempe Elementary $123 drano, manager Tempe Union $250 of school audits for the Auditor General’s Office, said the fact that Arizona spends about “For example, more efficient districts $3,300 per pupil less than the national monitored performance measures, used average on public education can be con- staffing formulas, had energy conservasidered one factor for why the percentage tion plans, maximized the use of free fedspent in the classroom lags other states. eral food commodities, limited waste by But she said it’s not that simple. closely monitoring meal production, and Take the cost of utilities. adjusted bus routes to ensure that buses “I do agree that they may not have a say were filled to at least 75 percent capacity,” in what rate they’re going to be charged,” the report says. Medrano said. “But they can do things ... “In contrast, less efficient districts for example with energy conservation, to had costly benefit packages and higher control the amount of energy that they non-instructional staffing levels, operatuse.” ed schools far below designed capacity, And Medrano noted that the report did not monitor energy consumption, contains numerous examples of efficient had poorly written vendor contracts, and districts, with some of them having class- paid bus drivers for time spent not workroom spending percentage close to or ing,” it added. even exceeding the national average. In general, the report finds that largWhat is clear is that there are wide vari- er school districts spend less on adminations between efficient and inefficient istration than smaller ones, “primarily school districts. And the report says there because of their economies of scale and are some common threads among both their ability to spread some of those costs categories. over more students.”

GOT NEWS?

Spending Increases

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com

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MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

TEACHERS

from page 12

play in Arizona last Wednesday by teachers around the state who wore red to express their beliefs that their needs and the needs of classrooms are being ignored. He called wearing red a “statement of awareness that there are issues in our schools that people really need to start paying attention to.’’ “And if that doesn’t work, well, then I don’t know what we’ll do next year,’’ Thomas said. The last teacher strike in the state didn’t work out so well. That was in Sierra Vista in 1980, when slightly more than half of the district’s 300 teachers walked out at the beginning of the school year. They were back in class a month later after schools remained open and the teachers were told to accept the school board’s last offer or be replaced. The base salary remained unchanged. Thomas, who moved to Arizona from Oklahoma 21 years ago, acknowledged this state’s general antipathy to unions and strikes. “I don’t think I’ve ever really seen that a statewide action could have the support, even among the teacher ranks to be successful,’’ he said. “But I’m really question-

ing that right now.’’ What’s changed, Thomas said, is that teachers have seen, year after year, state leaders ignoring not only the fact that salaries here are the lowest nationally but that Arizona has the third highest number of students per classroom. “I believe they’re frustrated to the point where they just don’t believe they have many options left,’’ he said. At the same time, Thomas said, the general public needs to be educated on what teachers already know is happening in Arizona “We have people that turn on a Facebook, or any social media, and see advertisements out of Clark County, Nevada, every single day that tells them, ‘You’re going to earn $11,000 more dollars and, by the way, we have just as much sunshine as you do in Arizona.’ Arizona has to wake up to that,’’ he said. “A lot of work has to be done, a lot of conversations, a lot of storytelling still has to happen so that people understand what the real issues are,’’ Thomas said. Ultimately, though, the association’s rank and file will have to make some decisions. “What teachers have to figure out is their level of frustration, their level of risk, and what it is they want to get,’’ he said.

One thing that is different from West Virginia, though, is that Arizona has what is likely the largest charter school system in the nation. These schools, which can be run as for-profit or non-profit operations, are permitted to hire whomever they want. That raises the question of whether a labor action by professionally trained teachers in traditional public schools would falter if their charter school counterparts refused to join. Thomas, however, said he thinks there would be a unified front. “I think they’re paid from the same meager funds and their salaries are just as poor as teachers in the district school are,’’ he said. “I don’t think that if you work in one or the other that you have a very different understanding of the respect you’re getting from the state.’’

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CLUB WEST

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

from page 1

much, Hinz declined to discuss specifics of that possible arrangement, deferring to Breuninger. Breuninger could not be reached for comment. He did not return a call from the AFN last week after initially promising to do so. And on Monday, a message on his phone said his voice mailbox was full. A Water Services spokeswoman declined comment, stating privacy rules prevented the department from discussing individual accounts. Though some duffers continued to play the course last week, golfers, who requested anonymity, said conditions are worsening by the day. “It’s like playing on concrete,” one said.

Pipeline still planned

Former course owner Wilson Gee said he is continuing engineering designs for a pipeline that will connect to a SRP canal on the south side of the South Mountain Freeway and bring water to both Foothills and Club West golf courses. Foothills doesn’t need the SRP water right now because it relies on a well, although Gee, who owns that golf course,

(AFN file photo)

Back in November, Club West Golf Course sported a lush green after over-seeding.

said it would ensure a steady source of water if the well ever went dry. Club West’s irrigation costs would be cut in half, added Gee, who sold Breuninger the course last year after a long battle with the city over water bills that exceeded $700,000 annually. “Hopefully the HOAs would agree to pay for” the line, Gee said. “It has to be negotiated.” The line would run along the bike path

planned for the southern rim of the freeway, then cross over beneath the highway. An Arizona Department of Transportation spokesman said last week that it is still going forward with plans to install a concrete sleeve beneath the freeway that would house the water line. Gee said while engineering studies are ongoing, he’s already applied for city approval of easements needed for the line. He and Hinz said they are working with

Councilman Sal DiCiccio to get that approval quickly. If an agreement can be reached on paying for it, the line could be completed by the second quarter of 2019, Gee said, and provide water at “half the cost” of city water. Gee also said that even if water service is restored now, it may be too late because the rye grass “will not come back.” The sudden turn of events at the course dismays the HOA board, Hinz said. “We’re disappointed they find themselves in this difficulty so soon,” he said. “Our interests are aligned with a successful golf course.” Adding to the board’s dismay is a lawsuit filed against Breuninger by a partner in his company, Club West Golf Management, over allegations of mismanagement, misrepresentations and “wrongful and unlawful misconduct.” The partner, William Day, who also is suing on behalf of that company, was to appear with Breuninger before state Superior Court Judge Christopher Whitten on March 13, for a hearing on Day’s request that Breuninger be ordered to open Club West Golf Management’s financial records. The hearing was postponed. Day states in his suit that he acquired See

CLUB WEST on page 17

NEWS

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

CLUB WEST

from page 16

a 40 percent interest in the company in return for a $250,000 investment. Day also says he gave Breuninger another $100,000 to reseed the course, which had turned brown after Gee shut off the water last summer. Among Day’s allegations is that the water shut-off is “causing an immediate and substantial and irreparable threat and injury to maintenance of the golf course.” “The golf course is immediately becoming ‘brown’ and will shortly be completely unplayable, resulting in nearly total loss of use to Club West Golf Management of its most valuable asset,” the suit states.

A long-running problem

Hinz said there’s little at this point that the association can do about the course’s condition and nothing it can do about the suit, calling it “a business dispute” that has generated “ugly accusations.” “The HOA has offered to lend whatever support we can,” Hinz told the AFN. “We’ll do anything in our power, but we can’t help him with his water bill and we can’t help him with his business plan.” The cost of water has been a problem for the course for at least three years – but the

(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Club West Golf Course owner Richard Breuninger was all smiles last November.

history goes back further than that. In the mid-1980s, Phoenix had signed an agreement with the former Del Webb Development Company when it was building Club West to provide reclaimed water from a plant that the developer

would build. After 12 years, the city abandoned the plant, citing high operating costs, according to Club West resident Jim Lindstrom, who in 2016 spent months trying in vain to recruit enough homeowners to buy and run the course. Gee said he had an agreement to pay the city a discounted rate for potable water through 2015, but the city abruptly terminated it. In 2016, Lindstrom said the city never told homeowners about the water-sourcing problems from 2002 to 2013, or that it was substituting more expensive potable water for reclaimed water. Throughout that time, he noted, “The homeowners at Club West purchased homes with the understanding that the focal point for the community, the golf course, would be operated and maintained.” Two years ago, the HOA board sued Gee over the course’s deterioration after he turned off irrigation in June 2016, saying he could no longer afford to pay the water bills. That suit was dismissed with prejudice by mutual agreement last Dec. 17 – about three weeks after Breuninger bought the course from Gee for $1.3 million. Gee carries the mortgage on the property and

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told the AFN last week that Breuninger remains current on his payments. Even before the deal closed, Breuninger used Day’s $100,000 to over-seed the course, transforming the course by mid-November into its lost luster. Breuninger in November also alluded to having a plan to obtain cheaper water but declined to discuss specifics. Posted on the wall at the Club West clubhouse restaurant are three maps showing diagrams of a water transmission infrastructure from the SRP canal to the golf course. The restaurant, Biscuits, still draws patrons despite the course’s condition. Breuninger also talked enthusiastically about his plans for making the course semi-private and creating a lounge in the clubhouse that would include a cigar-smoking area and a wine bar for members. As of last week, the lounge area sported new flooring and wall treatments but had no furniture. A handwritten sign on the door read “Staff Only.” Gee said he, too, is surprised the course has so quickly fallen on hard times again, but he understands at least part of the problem confronting Breuninger. “It’s always been about the water,” he said.

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

Chefs converge on Ahwatukee Park for annual Chili Cook Off

The Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center hosted its annual two-day Chili Cook Off competition, drawing new and seasoned chefs vying for a chance to go to the international chili contest later this year. Among the competitors who vied in one of four different categories wre people who traveled from as far as Michigan. From left, top row: Gail Kyle of Michigan took a brief break from her cooking while Adrian Charley ignored our photographer and continued to line up his ingredients while Mike Rast of Ahwatukee stirred his concoction; second row: Howard Allegan, also Ahwatukee, is ready to fill a sample cup that people used to judge the results while Paige Whitney does the same and Joseph Taylor mixes up some fresh ground beef. Bottom row: Darlene Taylor made her way from California for the big thrown-down while Al Henry cartefully measures some additional ingredients and Arissa Bright and Joel Huerta test their dish to see if anything is missing. Proceeds from the Cook Off benefited the 100 Club of Arizona and the Ahwatukee Little League. PHOTOGRAPHS BY Kimberly Carrillo/AFN photographer)

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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Three Ahwatukee natives 'bike-packing' through New Zealand BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

hey had their share of challenges, but three Ahwatukee natives are having the time of their young lives bike-packing through New Zealand and the South Islands. Emily “Em” Pawlik, Tyler Meester, Saxon Richardson and Ellen Palczynski rode through Cyclone Fehi, ran their bikes to avoid landslides and dodged cyclone debris on the road. But the ASU graduates say they wouldn’t have traded any of it for the world. Pawlik is a 2013 Desert Vista High School graduate, while Meester and Richardson graduated from Mountain Pointe High in 2011. Their companion, Ellen Palczynski, is from Michigan. “As a group, we’ve been planning this trip for over a year,” wrote Pawlik in an email from Nelson, New Zealand, the country’s second oldest city, located on the eastern shore of Tasman Bay. There, the quartet wound up their approximately 1,250-mile ride over incredibly scenic routes, and on some of New Zealand’s 10

Great Walks trails. Saxon and Palczynski live in Los Angeles, and Pawlik and Meester work in Yosemite National Park each summer. Meester, who graduated three years ago with a parks and recreation degree, works as a hiking guide; Pawlik, who graduated from ASU last year with a tourist development management degree, is employed at Yosemite’s historic Ah(Emily Pawlik/Special to AFN) wahnee Hotel. Tyler Meester pauses amid the splendor of New Zealand's mountain rang“We all worked for es during his bike-packing tour with three friends. months to pay for our plane tickets, bike setups and travel costs,” said Pawlik, the outdoors – rock climbing, trail runwho began the trip Dec. 3 when she, her ning, hiking, mountain biking and road companions and their dissembled bicy- cycling. We’re quite the adventurous group,” she said. cles boarded an Air New Zealand flight. Their adventure focused on bike-pack“We’re all extremely passionate about

ing – traveling with all belongings stowed on the bike through an assortment of specialized racks and bags. “It’s similar to bike touring, but what made our trip more unique is that we were on full-suspension mountain bikes and we pursued dirt roads and rough single track trails. There isn’t one trail that goes through New Zealand, so we had to ride on the roads in between our off-road adventures,” said Pawlik. Those off-road adventures were made more challenging by fully loaded bike bags that easily weigh up to 50 pounds. To stay on the move, their trips required that they carry tents, sleeping bags, camping stoves, cooking utensils and flatware, food to last five days, headlamps, some treasured books and all their clothing and personal items. Meester’s Olympus Mark II camera was a treasured piece of equipment, but his quest to capture the perfect photos proved troublesome at times. “I pretty much had to pack and unpack my bike every time I wanted to take a picSee

ZEALAND on page 21

Artist used art to beat challenges and help Mother Nature AFN News Staff

hwatukee artist Kathy Q. Parks knows from experience how art can help someone overcome their physical difficulties. She credits art with helping her heal after losing the ability to walk for more than a decade and, later, helping her regain the strength in her hands after they were badly burned in a devastating fire. As a paraeducator at Hamilton High School in Chandler, Parks used art whenever possible to help her special needs students improve hand strength and motor skills. While working with the students on a lesson about recycling, she came up with the idea to have them make sculptures from plastic bags. As a full-time artist now, her plastic bag sculptures are among her best-selling piec-

es at the Arizona Fine Art EXPO, which runs daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through March 25. She is among nearly 100 artists who work in studios under the “festive white tents” at 26540 N. Scottsdale Road, next to MacDonald’s Ranch. Parks uses styrofoam and other materials that are not readily recyclable to make the skeleton of the playful looking animals she creates. She then tapes hundreds of plastic bags into tight forms to fill out the body and finishes each animal with plaster cloth and several coats of paint. “I got into this plastic bag art when trying to come up with an idea to incorporate a unit on recycling with art and a need to give students an activity to help with fine motor skills,” she explained. “It was the perfect medium, light weight See

BAGS on page 23

(Special to AFN)

Ahwatukee artist Kathy Q. Parks works in a variety of media, including making beautiful pieces out of plastic bags. She found the medium helpful in strengthening her hands after an unjury.

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MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

100+ Women Who Care help out the Furniture Bank BY: WENDY BROOKS AFN Guest Writer

he Ahwatukee group of 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun is at it again. This time the local ladies who love to give chose the Furniture Bank as the recipient of their first charitable donation of the year. The women donated $11,200 to this local nonprofit. The Furniture Bank was founded in 2012 by Ahwatukee resident Tami Jackson to provide gently used furniture and household items for Valley families in need. Jackson, who has been helping the homeless for over 20 years alongside her husband, Pastor Mark Farley, noticed that those getting back on their feet may be able to afford rent but usually not the furnishings and household items needed for a functioning home. So, she started the Furniture Bank to give people a hand in creating a comfortable and positive home that includes furniture and furnishings. “We are thrilled to receive such a generous donation that will enable us to help so many more of our neighbors in need,” said Jackson. “It is our plan that children receive the essentials like a bed of their own

(Special to AFN)

Wendy Brooks of 100+ Women Who Care is flanked by Pastor Mark Farley and Tami Jackson, the founders of the Furniture Bank.

with a new mattress and a dining room table where the family can come together for meals, conversation and homework.” Along with her husband and a handful of volunteers, Jackson operates the charity that helps 200 local families and individuals each year. Most recipients are single moms with two or three children, but the Furniture Bank also helps grandparents or aunts and uncles welcoming children from the foster care system, as well as veterans getting

back on their feet. The Furniture Bank collaborates with more than a dozen other local charities such as Family Promise, UMOM and Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club to identify and help families and individuals in need. The Ahwatukee group of 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun is part of an international network of informal groups of women and men who want to give back to their local communities. Members meet once a quarter to do-

nate money directly to the charity of the groups’ choosing. “It has become more challenging than ever to do all the things we want to do, including giving back,” said Jenn Kaye, who serves on the executive team of 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun. “Together we create a network of support with the power to truly help others, make a bigger impact and leave a lasting legacy in Ahwatukee and throughout the Valley.” The Furniture Bank welcomes donations of gently used furniture and household items. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity that spends 100 percent of its income to help the working poor, so those who donate money are eligible to receive the dollar-for-dollar Arizona tax credit. To qualify for the 2017 tax credit, donations must be received by April 17. furniturebank.us/arizona-tax-credit To donate furniture or household items, please visit their website and complete their online form. The next meeting of 100+ Women Who Care Valley of the Sun is April 17 at 6:30 pm at the Foothills Golf Club. Guests are welcome and may register at 100wwcvalleyofthesun.org. -Wendy Brooks of Ahwatukee nominated Furniture Bank for the donation.

Summit School students get museum exposure for their art AFN News Staff

ome Summit School of Ahwatukee students have achieved what artists sometimes strive for a lifetime to get: a public display of their work. Architectural models and drawings inspired by visionary architect Paolo Soleri and made by Summit third- and fifth-graders are in an exhibition titled “To Dream Huge Dreams,” which runs to April 22 at the Young@Art Gallery in the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. The youngsters even got an opening reception when the show began last month. The students studied Soleri’s organic and sustainable design ideas and toured the recent exhibition, “Repositioning Soleri: The City Is Nature,” at SMoCA, meeting curator Claire Carter to deepen their inquiry. Working in collaborative teams, the students were invited to design their own ideal city using a sustainable approach. They merged architecture, urban design and science in a series of innovative design

(Special to AFN)

Summit School of Ahwatukee fifth-graders Samantha Riggle, left, and Mina Leh show off their art project, "Lake City," at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art's "To Dream Huge Dreams" exhibit. The group project was also created by fifth-grade artist Alex Rodriguez.

solutions. The young architect-artists are in the Vit-

ruvius Program, a nationally award-winning art, design and architecture program

at the Summit School. The studio project was led by Vitruvius Program co-founder Kathleen Kupper and her daughter, Selene, art teachers at Summit. “Design education is an integral part of the Summit School curriculum,” said Head of School Mark Bistricky. “Students are immersed in the design process and learn to identify and solve real-world problems,” he added. “Architecture and design equips students to integrate diverse areas of learning, engage in innovative and critical thinking, and become active global citizens.” According to a 2013 study published by the Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education, STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) curricula such as Summit’s power both creative and intellectual rigor for students in addition to innovative habits of mind. The study concluded the integration of the arts with science and technology also See

ART on page 24

COMMUNITY

ZEALAND

from page 20

ture because my camera would only fit in special places. Most of the time, the scenery and landscape views were gorgeous, making the decision so hard.” The travelers’ first stop was Auckland, on North Island. Following a cycling route called “Tour Aoteaora,” they started at the top of North Island and rode it clockwise to the south, where they ferried to South Island. “We definitely took our time enjoying many detours to national parks, friends’ houses and places locals recommended,” Pawlik said. “Most of our rest days included us not resting at all, but going on hikes or trail running to beautiful locations because we just had to see as much as we could.” Included in their hikes were many of the touted New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks that showcase many of the island nation’s most scenic sights. But those biking days weren’t all rainbows and mountain top experiences. “I think we’ve all had our struggles on this trip, both physically and mentally. There were many days we dreaded getting on our saddles for another day of long riding,” Pawlik said.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

They generally rode six to eight hours and averaged 40 miles daily. “About two weeks into the trip, I was having serious knee problems, so Tyler and I ended up cutting a big chunk out of our ride to rent a car and see a physical therapist in Wellington,” she said. Camping along the way was an unforeseen obstacle they hadn’t anticipated. “Because tourism is such a large part of the New Zealand economy, you can only camp in designated camp spots, which cost anywhere from $7 to $30. Any socalled ‘freedom camping’ is strictly forbidden,” she said. “Many times after a long day of riding, we’d find ourselves having to ride another hour or so to find a campground. We’d thought camping wouldn’t be much of an expense for us, but a lot of our funds went toward staying in the DOC sites and holiday parks,” she said. Then the group encountered Tropical Cyclone Fehi, which struck New Zealand Feb. 1 with heavy rain and 90 mph winds. “A storm hit in the middle of the night, and we dozed in and out of sleep to the sound of our tent snapping in the wind,” she recalled, adding their trip mates’ tent acquired a “few inches” of water. Even as the rain intensified, the quartet

OPEN HOUSE SAT MARCH 23rd 12-4 PM

packed their gear and started the ride. “At first, the rain was actually pretty fun to ride in. There was a beautiful vibe in the air and a tailwind propelled us,” she said. Though tempted to stop and photograph the numerous waterfalls and 500-year-old beech trees, they pedaled on. Nearing the coast, the wind and rain picked up and they were showered with debris while avoiding fallen tree branches. “The rain and wind made biking up the hills too difficult, so we pushed our bikes up the road. It was perfect landslide conditions, and in fear of that, we were running while pushing our bikes to be in these danger zones as little as possible,” said Pawlik. “It’s kind of hard to articulate how terrifying it was.” The New Zealand government knew how terrifying Cyclone Fehi could be, closing the road to all wheeled traffic coming or going. “We were stuck in Haast for two days while road construction crews removed landslide debris, fallen rocks and trees. We managed to book the last room available at a holiday park,” said Pawlik. They used to time to dry out their soaked belongings and watch “Lord of the Rings,” which was filmed entirely in

New Zealand. All four travelers obtained work permits before heading to New Zealand. Meester is working at a nursery, and Pawlik at a cafe. Though the work permits continue through October, at least Meester and Pawlik may head back sooner. “Tyler has work lining up in the states within the next two months, and I think I’ll probably go back to Yosemite for the coming summer,” she said. All four say they their adventure was worth repeating. “I think we are all pretty psyched on bike-packing. No one in our group had any prior experience bike-packing and we kind of threw ourselves into a big trip, so we learned a lot throughout the journey,” said Pawlik. “We are already starting to plan our next bike-packing trip.” Meester agreed: “This trip was the adventure of a lifetime, but it was also just the beginning. The thought of being done with adventures like this, or my climbing adventures, saddens me. “How could this be the one and only? Getting outside and pushing my mental and physical limits makes me happy, and brings clarity to my life. I think outdoor adventures of any size could make a lot of other people happy, too.”

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BAGS

from page 20

and flexible for weak hands. I fell in love with the texture the plaster cloth created because it is similar to the texture used in my paintings – which at that time I was doing as a side job,” she continued. “Working with plaster cloth to make sculpture is not new. Using throwaway materials for sculpture has been around for a long, long time. It is a lot like paper-mache, only a stronger, more archival material to work with. But I think it is a terrific alternative resource for using plastic bags and something anyone can do. I turn to plaster cloth when I need a break from painting.” Her lightweight animals are heavily influenced by her love of children’s literature, giving the animals a fun, mischievous quality. “I’ve found when I have one of the sculptures in my house, I start talking to it,” says Parks. “It almost becomes like a pet with the added benefit of not having to feed or pooper scoop after it.” Parks credits art with saving her on multiple occasions. In her early 30s, she suddenly lost her ability to walk, due to a virus. “It was more like a 30-year-old in the

“Art gave me an out,” says Parks. “It gave me meaning and validation. Working with your hands is an opportunity to get lost in creating something. (Special to AFN) These figures are all made of plastic bags that Kathy Parks meticulously tapes into There is no better medtight forms, then covers them with plaster cloth and paint. icine.” The ability to make and sell batiks gave body of a 90-year-old,” she said. “No Parks a new purpose and lifted her spirstairs, short distances, support when its – until one day 18 years ago when she needed. It took 10 years to regain most was melting wax for a batik on her kitchen of my strength. It was a gradual process. What they initially thought was MS was a stove and started a fire. Her kitchen, and her hands, were engulfed in flames. virus that had settled in my spine.” Doctors wanted to do a skin graft, but After months of darkness and deprestold her she could avoid the procedure if sion, she decided to make a batik – a skill she could move her hands enough each she had learned in an art class when she day. So, she began a mosaic on the wall in was young. The process brought joy and her backyard. Wearing special gloves, she light back into her life. began picking up tiles and adding them A client of her husband’s saw the batik to her mosaic. hanging in their home and bought it for As she gained the strength and range of more than she had previously made in a motion back in her hands, she gradually month.

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was able to use smaller pieces on her mosaic. It took nine months to heal her hands and 18 months to finish her mosaic. After her experience with the fire, Parks was scared to go back to batik work. She didn’t want to endanger herself or her family again. Instead, she tried painting and fell in love with it. A hand tremor makes detailed, lifelike images difficult. So, she works on larger canvases where she can do larger brush strokes. And she uses acrylic paint so she can more easily paint over and fix a mistake. “Every time something happened to me, art took me in a different direction,” said Parks. “Art saved me.” “I guess what means the most to me is that the arts, in all its forms, have thrown a life line to so many,” Parks said. “It has the power to heal physically, mend a broken spirit, occupy a lonely space of time, bring people together and open lines of communication. The creative world is awaiting anyone willing to open themselves to the experience and give it a try. There are no mistakes, only opportunities to explore and have fun.” For details about Arizona Fine Art EXPO: 480-837-7163 or ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com. More on Parks: KathyQParks.com

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

AROUND AHWATUKEE

from page 21

increased student learning in math and science as separate subjects as well. “So, in addition to the aesthetic power and beauty of the arts, as well as their fueling the creativity the future requires of students, they may also boost academic achievement in ‘core subjects’ as well,” it said. In 1988, Eugene and Kathleen Kupper co-founded the Vitruvius Program, an art, architecture, and design education program for preschool through high school. The program was developed with grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Arizona Commission on the Arts. The Vitruvius Program curricula and teacher training have been implemented in schools, universities, and museums throughout the U.S. Student work has been exhibited on an international level. The Vitruvius Program has been the Summit School of Ahwatukee’s art curriculum since 2000. Kupper and her daughter create and teach the model design education program to preschool through eighth grade students. They present integrated design exercises

Festival of Lights wine-beer tickets now on sale

Special to AFN

This is one of the many pieces by Summit School students on display in Scottsdale.

and art principles to students, and relate their work to community and global issues, embodying scientific, artistic and spiritual narrative. From preschool through eighth grade, Summit’s STEAM curriculum emphasizes the arts to nurture creativity and artistic expression. Separate classes for science, Spanish, music, art, technology, physical education and library also are offered at the fully accredited school. Information: summitschoolaz.org or email admissions@summitschoolaz.org.

Tickets are now on sale for the Festival of Lights Committee’s 23rd annual Wine & Beer Tasting Festival, one of Ahwatukee’s biggest social events of the year. It will be held 6:30-10:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at Rawhide Western Town, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler. Over 50 fine wines, food pairings and local breweries will be available, along with music by Tripwire, line dancing with Carrie McNiesh, a silent auction and other activities. Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door and can be purchased at any Safeway in Ahwatukee or at folaz.org. This is one of two major fundraisers the committee holds annually to keep the million lights along Chandler Boulevard glowing through the Christmas season. The Festival of Lights Committee also is looking for new volunteers and interested people can drop by at 6:30 p.m. at Desert Foothills United Methodist Church, 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee, on the following dates: March 20, March 27, April 3 and April 10. Information: admin@folaz.org.

Desert Vista High School seniors to collect ‘e-waste’ April 7

Desert Vista High School students Audrey Sears, Brendan Hicks and Ryan Hartman are holding an Electronic Waste Drive covering all used electronics 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 7, and Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, 1030 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. “When electronics are not recycled, they often end up in landfills, further polluting the Earth,” Ryan said. “These discarded electronics often contain raw materials that

can be used in other electronics. Also, some electronics contain toxic materials, such as mercury and lead, and it is imperative that these electronics are disposed of properly.” The students, who lead a group called Erase E-Waste are partnering with R3Ewaste to organize drive. ZAs part of an AP environmental science class at Desert Vista, they have a yearlong project focusing on discarded electronics. The items they collect will be recycled by R3Ewaste. The students will accept all electronics, but there is a fee for some items. Prices: $5 for desktop printers, CRT TVs less than 33 inches, $50, and more than 33 inches, $60; monitors less than 18 inches, $20, and more than 18 inches: $30; TVs 20-50 inches, $60, and more than 50 inches, $80. No household appliances will be accepted. Everything else – including cell phones, ink cartridges and other items – can be recycled for free. Some products recycled by R3Ewaste benefit Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Information: eraseewaste.weebly.com.

AARP's Smart Driver Course for seniors set at Generations

AARP is offering the Smart Driver Safety course in Ahwatukee next month. The course provides seniors an opportunity to refresh their driving skills while learning about changes not only to road designs, intersections and signage, but also technological changes to our cars. Tips on aging and driving are also provided. After attending a four-hour class, participants will See

AROUND on page 25

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MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

AROUND

Next Tukee Talks session is at the Ahwatukee Rec Center

Children’s Home Project plans annual fundraiser for children

from page 24

receive a certificate that may make them eligible for insurance discounts, depending on the insurer. The class is at Generations Ahwatukee, 15815 S. 50th St., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, April 5. The cost is $15 for AARP members, $20 for nonmembers. To register: janesimmers@gmail.com (preferred) or call Jane Simmers at 480-759-4037.

Ironwood Library to host CodePHX classes for young techies

Since its launch in the summer of 2017, approximately 1,700 children have attended CodePHX classes. With the winter session wrapped up. It’s time to get ready for next round of classes beginning later this month. Children ages 4-17 can attend the free coding classes, which are broken into two age groups: 4-7 and 8-17. The CodePHX program was created to provide kids the opportunity to gain knowledge and hands-on computer coding experience and STEM skills outside of school. City Councilman Daniel Valenzuela said the classes help close “a gap between our education system and the demands of the future workforce.” Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, will host classes for kids 4-7 years opld at 2 p.m. Sundays from March 25 through May 13, and 3-4 p.m. the same days and dates for the older group. CodePHX classes are free, but registration is required. Information: phoenix.gov/codePHX.

The fifth annual Fiesta Under the Stars dinner and silent auction benefiting the Children’s Home Project will be 6:30-9:30 p.m. April 14 at the Valley Garden Center, 1809 N. 15th Ave., Phoenix. The Ahwatukee-based Children’s Home Project brings nutrition, safety and love to children living in Honduran children’s homes. Dinner will be provided by Nando’s Mexican Cafe, and the silent auction will feature donations from businesses and individuals throughout the Valley. Tickets are $40 online, $45 at the door and are available at brownpapertickets.com/event/3231678. Event sponsors also are needed. Contact: Jenny Kast at 602-574-6612 or jkast@tchprojet.org.

Another blood drive has been scheduled to help 2-year-old Adelyn Troutman of Ahwatukee, who suffers from a rare blood disorder that requires her to get a blood transfusion every month. The drive will be 8 a.m.-1 p.m. April 21 at Desert Foothills United Methodist Church, 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. You can schedule an appointment by calling her mom, Kami Troutman at 480-246-6332, emailing troutman. kami@gmail.com or going to bloodhero.com and clicking sponsor code Adelyn.

The quarterly Tukeee Talks session will be at 6 p.m. March 29 at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center, 5001 E. Cheyenne Drive, giving Ahwatukee residents a chance to talk to representatives of the Phoenix Police precinct that patrols the community. Besides presentations, there also are opportunities for one-on-one conversations with officers and a question-and-answer period. Organizer Tracey Church is seeking volunteers to help with microphone passing, greetings and other tasks. To volunteer: pdtukeetalks@gmail.com. People also can send suggestions for topics and presenters to that address.

Republican Women seek seniors to apply for scholarship

Ahwatukee Republican Women is seeking applications from graduating high school seniors for the Marjorie Miner Scholarship. The $500 scholarship is open to an Ahwatukee resident who is a registered Republican. The deadline to apply is April 1. The ARW executive committee decides the winner in May. Applicants submit essays addressing their personal involvement volunteer service, extracurricular activities, organizations or clubs, their history of employment and future educational goals. They also fill out a form available at ahwatukeerepublicanwomen.com The award is named after Marjorie Miner, who was a precinct committee member for 22 years, president of

COMMUNITY

the Tempe Republican Women’s Club and a member of Ahwatukee Republican Women. Information: 602-300-4185, arwomen@aol.com.

Republican Women to hold Corp Commission candidate forum

The Ahwatukee Republican Women will hold a forum featuring candidates for the state Corporation Commission during their monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. March 28 at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. Information: 602-300-4185, arwomen@aol.com.

Dream Dinners food-packing event at GCU seeks sponsors, volunteers

Dream Dinners of Ahwatukee is seeking sponsors to support the purchase of food and other expenses in advance of a food-packing event at Grand Canyon University on March 25. Sponsors who contribute between $500 and $10,000 will get various levels of recognition at the packing event, which aims to feed thousands of needy families in the United States and abroad. The event is being organized by the Dream Dinners Foundation and another nonprofit called Friends & Family Community Connection, which together have organized similar events across the country that have supplied 16 million meals.Information: Penny Bowers at 602-810-2922 or penny.bowers@dreamdinners.com.

CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 Spring break fun

Stop by Ironwood Library for some crafts and games during spring break. #SpringBreak #IronwoodLibrary DETAILS>> noon-7:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages 5-12. Free. No registration required.

THURSDAY, MARCH 15 Teen-palooza

Bring a friend or two to watch a movie, join a Kahoot competition, graze at a pizza and ice cream bar, play video games, and make crafts. #TeenThursdays #IronwoodLibrary DETAILS>> 4-5:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 12-18. Free. No registration required.

FRIDAY MARCH 16

Toastmasters open house

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce Toastmasters will hold an open house for people who want

to know more about the group. DETAILS>>7:45-9 a.m., First American Title Conference Room, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd. #100, Ahwatukee. Information: Tessy Bryan 480-330-6528 vppr-1811442@ toastmastersclubs.org

Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. RSVP to 480-283-9161.

MONDAY, MARCH 19

SATURDAY, MARCH 17

TUESDAY, MARCH 20

Starting Medicare? How the Medicare plan can be a lifechanging decision is the topic of a workshop by Ahwatukee agents and active Medicare members Bill and Carole Phelan, who present options and answer your questions. DETAILS>> 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Ironwood library, 4333 E.

Writers critique group

The third Tuesday of every month bring five double-spaced pages of writing to get feedback from your fellow writers. #WritingEvent #IronwoodLibrary DETAILS>> 6-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

Questions about Medicare?

Turning 65? New to area? What are my choices?

Ahwatukee, Chandler and Tempe professionals in the ACT Networking Group are holding a visitors night event. DETAILS>> 7:45-8:45 a.m. Tukes Kafe 15815 S. 50th St., Ahwatukee. Information: 602-418-3645.

TUESDAY, MARCH 27

Creative planning and journaling

Do you have a New Year’s resolution to get organized but don’t know where to start? Bring your planner, bullet journal or notebook and learn some tips on laying out your tasks and goals while exercising your creativity! The fourth Tuesday of each month we’ll get those creative gears turning, get organized together, and help you reach those goals! Introductory bullet journal and all other supplies provided by the Friend of the Phoenix Public Library.

See

CALENDAR on page 28

Medicare Seminar

We Can Help!

Hosted by Bill and Carole Phelan

Celebrating our 8th year with a kiosk at the Chandler Blvd Fry’s store during annual enrollment ...

Saturday, March 17th • 11:30am - 12:30pm Ironwood Library • 4333 E Chandler Blvd.

480-283-9161

Call for year round in-home appointments

BILL AND CAROLE PHELAN

Networking visitors day

Last day to pay

Today is the last day to pay for the Monday, March 26, charity luncheon sponsored by Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors. At the luncheon, at the Foothills Golf Club in Ahwatukee, members can buy raffle tickets on a variety of baskets, with proceeds benefitting Court Appointed Special TinkerTime Explore hands-on creative ways to design, experiment, Advocates. The program will be “Celebrating Our Veterans,” and invent while learning about science, technology, recognizing members who have served in the armed forces. engineering, art and math (STEAM) through tinkering. DETAILS>> Email affanwomensgroup@gmail.com to find #stem #tinkertime #IronwoodLibrary out how to become a member. DETAILS>> 2-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 6-11. Free. No registration required.

Medicare explained

THURSDAY, MARCH 22

ASK ABOUT OUR NEW DENTAL-VISION PLAN

Licensed, Independent Insurance Agents. Not Employed by Medicare or Any Government Agency

Presentation on how the Medicare plan you choose can be a life-changing decision. (not a sales presentation)

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CALENDAR

from page 25

#planningjournaling #IronwoodLibrary DETAILS>> 4-6 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28

Gain control of workday

Improve your productivity by gaining control of your workday. Eliminate roadblocks to your success and identify the distractions that hold you back. Learn how to gain peak performance in your work and business. Part of the hive@central Productivity Series presented by Margo Brown, Productivity Coach & Founder of Wave Productivity. #IronwoodLibrary DETAILS>> 6-7:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Registration required via the online calendar at phxlib.org.

SATURDAY MARCH 31

Passover seder scheduled

The NefeshSoul Community will hold a Passover seder and potluck. DETAILS>> 5:30-8 p.m. outside the sanctuary at Valley Unitarian Universalist, 6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler. RSVP: bit.ly/nefeshseder or nefeshsoul.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 21

Shred-A-Thon on tap

A Shred-A-Thon to help the Support Our Troops program will be held by members of the Ahwatukee Recreation Center. DETAILS>> 8-11 a.m. or until the truck is filled. ARC parking lot, 5001 E. Cheyenne Drive, Ahwatukee. Cost is $2 per box, sized 15x12x10 inches.

SUNDAYS

Learn gardening from pros

Learn desert gardening by getting your hands dirty with the Ahwatukee Community Gardening Project. Share in the knowledge, the produce and the smiles. All ages welcome Bring sun protection and water, tools optional. DETAILS>> 8-9:15 a.m. in the northwest corner of the park at 4700 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee, behind the guitar player at the Ahwatukee Farmers Market, which is open 9a.m.-1 p.m. Information: acgarden.org or 480-759-5338.

Chess players, knitters clubs

Two new clubs meet in Ahwatukee every Sunday: the chess club, for players at all skill levels, and Knitters Anonymous, for all levels of knitters and people who crochet. DETAILS>> The Chess Club meets at 11 a.m. at Einstein’s at 48th Street and Ray Road. Knitters Anonymous meets at 2 p.m. at Sun Cup Café, 1241 E Chandler Blvd. For either club, call 480-246-1912 for more information.

MONDAYS

Sign language for crawlers

Accompanied by a favorite adult, babies birth to crawling enjoy songs, music, rhymes, books, interactive stories, simple sign language words, activities to promote movement, and playtime. DETAILS>> 10:30-11 a.m. Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages birth to crawling. Free. Tickets are limited and available in the library 30 minutes before program begins.

Power Partners meet

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce’s Power Partners meets. It’s a category-specific networking and leads group. Non-Chamber members can attend one event to “check it out.” DETAILS>> noon-1 p.m. at Native Grill and Wings 5030 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Contact: Gina Jenkins 480-990-5444

LD 18 Dems meet monthly

Legislative District 18 Democrats gather monthly, usually the second Monday, to share news, opportunities, food and laughter. Meetings include guest speakers, legislative updates, how-to sessions and Q&A. Volunteer or just enjoy an evening with like-minded folks. DETAILS>> For times and places: ld18democrats.org/ calendar.

TUESDAYS

Coloring for grown-ups

Adult coloring promotes mindfulness, reduces stress, and improves cognitive motor skills. We’ll provide the markers, crayons, colored pencils, and coloring sheets; you just bring yourself and your friends! DETAILS>> Tuesdays 1:30-3:00 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

Homework help

Volunteer Eric will help with homework each Tuesday afternoon. DETAILS>> 5:15-6:15 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages 5-18. Free. No registration required.

Estrangement support

Although rarely discussed, family estrangement is far more common than most people realize. The estranged suffer from loneliness, lack of self-esteem, guilt, anger and depression. Desert Foothills United Methodist Church provides a support group that meets the first Tuesday of every month. The public is invited to the “Living Loss” sessions. No questions asked, and anonymity will be respected. DETAILS>> 7 p.m., first Tuesday of every month; 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. Free. Information: 480-460-1025 and office@desertfoothills.org

Homework help

Little Bytes

Volunteer Eric will help with homework. DETAILS>> 4-5:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 5-18. Free. No registration required.

Coder Dojo

Adult coloring promotes mindfulness, reduces stress, and improves cognitive motor skills. We’ll provide the markers, crayons, colored pencils, and coloring sheets; you just bring yourself and your friends! DETAILS>> 1:30-3 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

Kids can learn the foundations of coding and computer commands before they can write or spell. Fun activities, apps and games will teach the fundamentals of simple logic, sequencing and coding language. #stem DETAILS>> 2-3 p.m. March 25, Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 4-7. Free. No registration required.

What do video games, robots and self-driving cars have in common? Code! You can become a coding master by learning Code.org, Kodable, Scratch, Tynker, HTML and more. Beginners welcome. DETAILS>> 3-4 p.m. March 25. Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 8-17. Free. No registration required.

Coloring for grown-ups

Chair yoga featured

Inner Vision Yoga Studio offers chair yoga to help seniors and people recovering from injuries to stay fit. DETAILS>> 1:30-2:30 p.m., 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. $5 per class.

Toastmasters sharpen skills

Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings DETAILS>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

Power Partners available

The Ahwatukee Chamber offers Power Partners every Tuesday except the second Tuesday of the month, when attendees are encouraged to attend the Wake Up Ahwatukee Morning Mixer. Unlike our Monday Power Group, this group will be non-category specific, meaning you can have more than one member in each business category. DETAILS>> 7:45-8:45 a.m. Jason’s Deli, 7230 W. Ray Road, Chandler. Free. Information:. Gina Jenkins, 480-990-5444.

WEDNESDAYS

Fun with watercolors

People can get step-by-step instruction in watercoloring whether they are beginners and intermediates. DETAILS>> 2:30-5 p.m. Hobby Lobby, 4710 Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Four classes for $80. To register: Judy Lokits 480-471-8505, or judylokits.com.

Celebrate recovery

Celebrate Recovery is a Biblical 12-step program that helps you find hope and healing from all of life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Whether it’s addiction, loss, anger, or stress, you can find the freedom you’re looking for. DETAILS>> 6:20 PM, Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 South 48th Street, Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579, mvlutheran. org.

Sit, Stay, Read!

Young readers and listeners can sign up for reading time with a registered therapy animal and human team. Read to Truffles on Wednesdays. DETAILS>> 3-4 p.m. at Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 4-10. Free. No registration required.

Montessori holds open house

Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori holds an open house weekly. It includes a short talk about Montessori education, followed by a tour of its campus. DETAILS>> 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-759-3810

Grief support is free

Hospice of the Valley offers a free ongoing grief support group for adults and is open to any adult who has experienced a loss through death. No registration required. DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. 602-636-5390 or HOV. org.

Foothills Women meet

An informal, relaxed social organization of about 90 women living in the Ahwatukee Foothills/Club West area. A way to escape once a month to have fun and meet with other ladies in the area. Guest speaker or entertainment featured. DETAILS>> 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Contact Shelley Miller, president, at 602-527-6789 or essentiallyshelley@ gmail.com

Parents can ‘drop in’

Parents are invited to join a drop-in group to ask questions, share ideas or just listen to what’s going on with today’s teenagers. DETAILS>> 5:30-7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month. Maricopa Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Phoenix. Free. RSVP at 602-827-8200, ext. 348, or rcarter@ cals.arizona.edu.

‘Dems and Donuts’ set

Legislative District 18 Democrats gather for an informal chat. DETAILS>> Free and open to the public 7:30-9 a.m. the

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018 third Wednesday of the month at Denny’s, 7400 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. RSVP: marie9@q.com or 480-592-0052. THURSDAYS

Networking group meets

ACT Networking Group, standing for Ahwatukee, Chandler and Tempe, meets weekly. DETAILS >> 7:45-8:45 p.m., Tukes Kafe, 15815 S. 50th St., Ahwatukee. Information: 602-418-3645.

Teen Thursdays

Ironwood Library provides the snacks and fun every Thursday; teens just bring themselves and a friend! First Thursdays: video games; second Thursdays: artmaking; third Thursdays: Upcycling Makerspace. Fourth Thursdays: Library Volunteer Opportunities. DETAILS>> 4-5:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 12-18. Free. No registration required.

Kiwanis meets weekly

The Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club meets weekly and welcomes newcomers. Upcoming speaker is Phoenix mayoral candidate Moses Sanchez on March 15. DETAILS>>7:30 a.m. Biscuits Restaurant, 4623 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. Information: mike.maloney2003@gmail. com.

Mothers of Preschoolers gather

Free child care for ages 0 to 5. DETAILS>> 9 a.m. second and fourth Thursday, Foothills Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St. Call Kim at 480-759-2118, ext. 218.

‘Gentle yoga’ offered

Inner Vision Yoga Studio offers “gentle floor yoga” for core strengthening and healthy backs. DETAILS>> 1:30-2:30 p.m. 4025 E. Chandler, Ahwatukee. $5 per class. Information: 480-330-2015 or donna@ innervisionyoga.com.

FRIDAYS

Toastmasters meet

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce has a weekly Toastmasters meeting. DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., First American Title conference room, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd. #100, Ahwatukee. Information: Tessy Bryan 480-330-6528 or vppr-1811442@toastmastersclubs.org

SATURDAYS

Sit, Stay, Read!

Young readers and listeners can sign up for reading time with a registered therapy animal and human team. First and Third Saturdays: Read with Raven and Cassie. Second Saturday: Read with JoJo. DETAILS>> 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 4-10. Free. No registration required.

Fun with watercolors

People can get step-by-step instruction in watercoloring whether they are beginners and intermediates. DETAILS>>10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Hobby Lobby, 4710 Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Four classes for $80. To register: Judy Lokits 480-471-8505, or judylokits.com.

Alzheimer’s support group meets

Caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients can find support monthly. DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m. Ahwatukee Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the first Saturday of the month at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St.

—— Email calendar items to pmaryniak Email calendar items to @ahwatukees.com pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com

OPINION

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Opinion

@AhwatukeeFN |

@AhwatukeeFN

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Dust off the bonnet and get ready for the parade BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

In case you haven’t looked at a calendar lately, there’s a half month left before Easter weekend. That means we're less than three weeks away from one of Ahwatukee’s grandest traditions – the annual Kiwanis of Ahwatukee Easter Parade. Newcomers to Ahwatukee may not realize it, but the parade – which marks its 42nd birthday this year – is the largest Easter parade in the City of Phoenix. I venture to say it’s the biggest in the Valley. Although I have edited countless stories about the parade over the last 15 years, I had never attended one until last year – and quickly realized what I had been missing. The imagination that some groups and businesses put into their entries was a delight. And it was hard not to be impressed by the performance of groups like the two local Tempe Union high schools, the Shake It Up team from the Ahwatukee Foothills YMCA and the Center Point Dance

members. While all the participants deserve a round of applause, the members of the Kiwanis Club of Ahwatukee earn a standing ovation. I cannot imagine the work that goes into organizing the parade and the Spring Fling Carnival and Craft Fair that follows. But I am certain a lot of work goes into it. That’s why, if you belong to an organization based in Ahwatukee or are part of a small business in the community, it might be a good idea to join the parade. And if you have no plans yet for March 31, consider spending a delightful hour or so lining up to watch the action. The parade begins at 10 a.m. March 31 at 48th Street and Warner Road and progresses north about one mile along 48th Street to Cheyenne Drive. Spectators are welcome to bring lawn chairs or spread blankets and enjoy the parade. After the parade, families and individuals can drop by the Spring Fling at Ahwatukee Community Center Park, 4700 E. Warner Road. The parade and the Spring Fling are organized by the 27-member Kiwanis Club

of Ahwatukee with proceeds earmarked for community and Kiwanis charities. Local Key Clubs from Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe High Schools assist. For more parade information, call 480759-0007 or e-mail msch0007@aol.com. Spring Fling information can be obtained by calling 602-402-6267 or e-mailing andi@wttaz.com. Forms for entry as a float or a marching unit are available at ahwatukeekiwanis.org. Every year, organizers of an event of this magnitude surely have to sweat it out as the big day gets closer. They have to worry about the weather. Worry that the participants will show up. Worry that no detail has been overlooked. No event of the parade’s scale goes on year after year without fretting. If you don’t believe that, think about how you feel during the days and hours before a big family holiday dinner. Of course, Easter Parade Boss Mike Schmitt, who’s been commanding the procession of souped-up vehicles and contingents of performers and organizations for 25 years, will be the chief honcho at the event. He manages to keep everything

under control and in order. But he also counts on his fellow members for help. It’s important to remember that the Kiwanis Club of Ahwatukee is not a very big organization, counting maybe a few dozen members at most. But what it might not have in numberbers, it makes up in passion – passion for the community and passion for the club’s ideals. Members take foster kids on backto-school shopping sprees, try to make Thanksgiving and Christmas a little brighter for those living in group homes and encourage literacy among children through reading activities. The parade is their gift to the community. The Spring Fling funds their efforts through the year to do these things and a lot more. The club gets together weekly at 7:30 a.m. Thursdays at Biscuits Restaurant, 5623 Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. If you want information, email mike.maloney2003@ gmail.com. And put the parade on your calendar right now.

LETTERS

ABM board oversees many services and special events

Dear homeowners living under the Ahwatukee Board of Management (ABM): I have been intimately involved with the ABM since I moved here roughly 20 years ago. More than anything else, I want to work to instill confidence in our board again. For two years, I have attended almost every public meeting and have been hurt by the attitude of exclusion I felt was displayed toward homeowners. Our ABM has a caring staff that works hard to provide professional, supportive service and entertaining activities to our community. Do you want to become fit? The 6 a.m. exercise class is a perfect way to start the day. Are you a pet lover? They host a dog show. Do you like sports? They host a little league baseball team. Do you have children? They provide summer camps to introduce kids to swimming, tennis and golf. Are you worried about pool safety? They have swim lessons for all ages.

Are you worried about wildlife? They provide advice about citrus rats, bees, dying trees, etc. The Haunted House at Halloween provides fun, safe entertainment and allows local high school students an opportunity to earn community service credits. The Tukee Fest, the Classic Car Show, the Chili Cook Off put on recently and now, they are entering a float in the Kiwanis Easter parade. Maybe best but least known is a long existing program to help homeowners by providing sand bags for protection from flood waters; volunteering to help the disabled with cleaning up and trimming yards; providing useful suggestions for painting, repairing and/or renovating older homes. They have even begun a quality awards program where neighbors can nominate each other for “going above and beyond” in some way. The list goes on and on. The ABM board is a group of professional volunteers who freely give of their time because they want to “improve the quality of life in our community.”

We have different opinions about what that means and I have seen us lose sight of “the common good.” But every year there is a chance to begin again with a new board and new possibilities. I know the only way to fight an idea is with a better idea. Please join us this year with your questions and your suggestions. I am transparent, open and willing to listen. The ABM does want to work for us all. I am Karin Gray and I can be reached at 480226-6868.

-Karin Gray

Lawmakers’ actions prompt concern, questions

Upon reading the 2/14 issue of my favorite local newspaper, two articles gave me pause. The first was the Norgaard bill on egg expiration dates. Almost doubling the “sell by” date on eggs doesn’t seem a good idea to me. Since it is unknown how long consumers might hold eggs after purchasing them and there is no “use by” date on eggs, this proposed expiration date deregulation benefits

egg producers but may not keep consumers safe. As one who cannot eat uncandled eggs without experiencing half a day of dizziness, I am concerned about the reduced quality of longer age grocery store eggs. The second article addressed a motor vehicle fee increase. The title said the increase was for roadwork, which is sorely needed in the Valley. However, the second paragraph talks about raising enough money to “fund the Highway Patrol.” So, which is it, raising revenue for road maintenance or for the Highway Patrol? Since the State House panel has already voted to impose the new fee when people register their vehicles every year, we need the full House to carefully review this measure before they vote. Also, President Trump’s administration is working on a huge infrastructure package that will trickle down to the states. That should be taken into consideration. -Eva Willis

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

OPINION

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

The things you think of when Arizona is your home BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Tribune Columnist

e were standing on the 14th hole of the Arizona Biltmore golf course when The Guy From Grand Rapids, maybe four beers and 80 strokes in, began to expound about his lack of desire. Not that kind of desire (for which I thank heavens). His lack of desire to see the Grand Canyon. “Came here in 2008, so it’s been 10 years,” said Mr. Michigan. “I don’t see the point. It’s a long drive.” Me: “It’s not any longer than this round of golf. And it’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It’s 2 billion years old. Billion. With a b-” Grand Rapids Guy: “Right. But when you think about it, it’s just a hole in the ground. I don’t need to drive four hours to see some big old hole in the ground.” That was when I let it go, because I’ve

learned there are three kinds of people in the world: Dumbasses, people who are proud to be dumbasses and the rest of us. I don’t argue with the first two. Even so, this encounter kept gnawing at me, because of what this ignorant Michigander has failed to grasp: The essence of calling Arizona home. See, I’d like to think that home isn’t simply a matter of geography. Home is a place where we all share certain things, common experiences that knit us closer together and maybe even induce a certain collective pride. If this was a social media post rather than a newspaper column, it would come with a hashtag, like #ThatsSoArizona or #YouKnowAZIsHomeWhen. Having your breath snatched away while standing on the Grand Canyon’s rim is one such experience, a bucket-list moment some Chamber of Commerce copywriter might tout as “uniquely Arizona.” There are others, of course, though not all of them are as worth bragging about as the

Canyon. What else feels “so Arizona?” How about: Sitting on the outfield grass at Scottsdale Stadium and watching a Cactus League game. Learning the correct pronunciations of Prescott, Casa Grande and saguaro. Driving up to Rock Springs Cafe to get some pecan pie. Or watching a drunken sorority girl wobble down the fairway at the Phoenix Open in a miniskirt and four-inch spike heels. You see where I’m going here. When you call a place home, you come to appreciate its nuances. Like how whenever you see Lin Sue Cooney on TV, she never seems to age. And how you always meet a Valley old-timer whose granddad had a chance “to buy a hundred acres over by (insert name of big mountain) for $22 an acre,” but didn’t. And how no airport in America boasts worse signage or slower luggage unloading than Sky Harbor. And how there’s always an hour wait at Pizzeria Bianco. And how people who call it “Squaw Peak” as opposed to “Piestewa

Peak,” always seem a little proud of their political incorrectness. Then there’s Arizona’s annual rites of passage, afflictions that occur as inevitably as another 112-degree day in August. Like one more losing Phoenix Suns season where the sports talk goofs proclaim, “the future is right around the corner.” Or seeing Arizona public education “jump up a notch to number 49” when it comes to funding schools and paying teachers. Or our state Legislature pulling up in January like a 90-seat clown car and spending five months playing grab-ass and debating whether to arm school crossing guards and PTA moms. Some people say home is where the heart is. Me, I say home is where we skip Daylight Savings Time Sunday and spend all year trying to figure out what time it is at Dad’s house back east. – David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@leibowitzsolo.com.

Share Your Thoughts: Send your letters on local issues to: pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com

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Ahwatukee teacher helping teens help businesses BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

n Ahwatukee teacher is helping Tempe High School business and engineering classes assist East Valley businesses incorporate augmented and virtual reality after winning a $20,000 Verizon Innovative Learning Grant. As part of the grant, business teacher Scott Berren of Ahwatukee and fellow teachers Mike Warner and Mike Hansen are support fellows, not only instructing their students in using cutting-edge technologies but getting mentoring themselves from Verizon specialists and educators from Arizona State University. The grant runs two years and provides teachers with tools to better teach entrepreneurship and technology skills using real-world projects. They also incorporate new technology, including coding and app development as well as virtual and augmented reality solutions. For the 148 students involved in the program, five area businesses were selected for their hands-on projects – Quartiere Italian Restaurant and Paul’s Ace Hardware in Tempe, Landings Credit Union in Chandler and Threadz, operated through the Tempe Teen Resource Center. In each case, students are designing a mobile solution to problems they and the businesses have identified through discussions. The goals are innovative business

(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Tempe High School business teacher Scott Berren, right, works with senior Jadin Briggs to apply high tech to businesses.

solutions and apps that can not only attract new customers, but introduce current ones to new ways of making use of the business. For the Mill Avenue Italian restaurant, Quartiere, this includes new technology never considered before. “We’re using augmented and virtual reality for this,” said high school junior Gabriel Edwards. “I have used it before, but I think this is cool because it’s real problem solving; it’s not a simulation.” His team is using new mobile technologies to allow patrons to see behind-the-scenes food preparation of various menu items, as well as

explanations of menu items that can be retrieved through their phones. Chandler resident and Tempe High senior Audrey Wallace is one of four students concentrating on Threadz, a Tempe Union High School District service providing clothing and personal hygiene items for students at two locations. “Our group sees a need to improve Threadz’ website and hopes to introduce an augmented reality solution that allows customers to scan an AR card to learn more about their services,” Audrey said. The program also has ignited the students’ entrepreneurial spirit.

Their solutions and suggested changes provided by the 37 teams of four students will be showcased in an end-of-year program Celebration of Learning, said Berren. Additionally, selected teams will compete at Arizona State University VIL Showcase this spring, going up against the other seven Arizona schools in this year’s grant program. A gallery walk will coincide with the “pitch competition.” “We are the only TUHSD school to ever be accepted for this grant,” Berren boasted. In their application for the Verizon, Dianne Welling, TUHSD’s coordinator of business partnerships, said more female and underrepresented students were being encouraged to enroll in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) classes through the Career and Technical Education Program in Engineering. This provides a four-year pathway of high school courses for students looking to post-secondary STEM careers. Tempe High has the highest percentage of at-risk, low-income students and homeless families in the district. Verizon said it wants to specifically reach underrepresented groups. “STEM workers command higher wages, earning 26 percent more than their non-stem counterparts. VIL provides opportunities not presently available to THS students,” Welling wrote in the grant application, adding that students See

VERIZON on page 32

Realtors group launches effort to block sales tax on services BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

he Arizona Association of Realtors is trying to forever block state lawmakers from expanding the state sales tax. An initiative launched Friday proposes to constitutionally prohibit a sales tax from being imposed on services. Backers need at least 225,963 signatures by July 5 to put the issue on the November ballot.

With few minor exceptions, there is no such levy now. The Realtors’ effort would take that issue off the table even as lawmakers may have to look to expand the sales tax base, particularly as consumers move from purchasing tangible items to buying services online. The campaign is being run under the Banner of Protect Arizona Taxpayers. Wes Gullett, a campaign consultant, said the initiative will be “supported by small businesses that are concerned about

a potential huge tax burden.’’ But Gullett said that group is getting all its cash from Citizens for Fair Tax Policy. And reports filed with the Secretary of State’s Office show the entire $1.1 million in that account comes from the Realtors Issues Mobilization Fund, an arm of the organization. The Realtors are no strangers to this type of preemptive strike. A decade ago, the group convinced voters to ban imposition of a real estate transfer tax.

Arizona did not have one at the time. But the group said the move was necessary to keep lawmakers, potentially looking for new sources of revenue, from deciding a transfer tax was appropriate. That same logic is reflected in publicity materials already being released by the group. Its website says there was a measure introduced this legislative session to tax services, though that measure went See

TAX on page 37

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

Backyard beach scenes get a facelift from their creator

mostly all custom-designed projects as specified by clients, which allows them maximum flexibility and input into the final design work. Each project is thereby individually designed for maximum effectiveness and long-lasting enjoyment. Their work in Arizona as well as Portland, Oregon, and eastern Pennsylvania has included children’s bedroom, kitch-

ens, living rooms, dining rooms, daycare centers, church offices and sanctuaries, restaurants, pet shops and car lots. Peter serves as the company’s sales/marketing director while their daughter Desiree and son Andreas also contributed their artistic handiwork. Andreas often travels to other regions of the country to provide his creative abili-

ties and visions. Desiree, a longtime trainer/manager/ server at Sakana Sushi & Teppan at 51st Street and Elliot Road, Ahwatukee, also creates her own designer earrings and unique paintings in her spare time. After 12 years in Ahwatukee, the van Arkens relocated their business to Portland in 2015 so she could care for her ailing parents. The company’s colorful murals that cover the entire front windows or walls of a business are built around Carmina’s belief that “murals should convey what they say.” It’s not enough to rely on words to make an impression on potential customers, she said, especially if owners are trying to attract business on the fly. “If people are in a car, there are only a few seconds for a storefront to make an impression and if it’s something colorful and unique, they’ll remember it.” “We try to depict on the outside what’s going on inside,” she added. “We want the murals to show what’s different about our client from the competition down the street.” While her murals bedeck other local storefronts as well, including A Step Ahead Preschool and Montessori in Ahwatukee, which commissioned a work built on the theme “children of the world,” and TriCore Chiropractic, also in Ahwatukee. Information: hopesgraphics.webs.com.

education courses for advanced marketing (for seniors) and engineering classes. Berren’s training began in mid-October with a four-day institute in downtown Phoenix. Fellows from the 43 schools nationwide selected this year were in attendance. Berren, who holds an MBA and BA from the University of Arizona, and a

masters of education from Northern Arizona University, is in his third year teaching high school. Prior to starting there, he worked 12 years in advising and research and assessment within the career services departments at both U of A and ASU. It was while teaching nights at South Mountain Community College as an adjunct professor that he decided teaching was what he really enjoyed. “I really enjoy teaching, and this grant gives me the opportunity to expose students to real world technology solutions for small businesses,” said Barren, 39, who also coaches the Tempe High boys golf team. Warner also came to teaching later in his career. A graduate of Baylor University with a BS degree in biology and minor in chemistry, he entered the U.S. Navy, serving as a helicopter pilot for 20 years while earning a master of science degree in meteorology from the Naval Post Graduate School. Following Naval retirement, Warner

returned to Arizona and earned his commercial real estate license and worked at America West Airlines and taught at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Hansen, an instructor of Engineering and Physics, is in his fifth year at Tempe High after transferring from Mountain Pointe High School. Christina Ngo, program manager of ASU’s Entrepreneurship + Innovation/ Knowledge Enterprise Development program, said students are the key to helping these small businesses grow through the project. “Students are one of our greatest resources when it comes to innovative ideas and out-of-the-box thinking,” said Ngo. “The students have the opportunity to really engage with their communities, developing solutions for small business owners they may never have considered or imagined. “And because of this program and their teachers, students are preparing themselves for careers and experiences that don’t even exist yet,” she added.

AFN News Staff

ince 2014, Kris and Scott Bruns have enjoyed a tropical scene in their backyard thanks to Hope’s Graphics & Designs, a family-owned and operated business that paints everything from faces to elaborate murals and storefront displays. But even palm trees and coconuts on brick can wither in the harsh desert sun, so last week, the Bruns got a freshening up of the beach and tropical scenes that cover the walls in their backyard home on S. 47th Street in Ahwatukee. The “facelift” was overdue, Kris said, explaining, “The palm trees and everything else were starting to fade.” Which wouldn’t sit well either with the Bruns or their guests. “They’re awed. They’re just amazed by the murals,” Kris said. She said that when she originally purchased the home for her mother, “I wanted her to have a tropical environment.” And when her mother saw what Hope’s Graphics & Design had done, “she loved it,” Kris said. The Bruns got the idea for the murals after seeing some of the other work by the owners of the graphics business, Esperanza Hope Carmina van Arkens and her husband, Peter, have done throughout Ahwatukee and other parts of the Valley. Esperanza applies her artistic talents to

VERIZON

from page 31

participating in the Verizon Innovative Learning Design Thinking Program are being exposed to new technologies that might be unavailable to them otherwise. The grant curriculum has been embedded in current career and technical

(Special to AFN)

Peter van Arkens puts some finishing touches on part of the mural along the backyard walls of Kris and Scott Bruns of Ahwatukee. They first had the murals painted by Hope's Graphics & Design, which he owners with his wife Edsperanza, 2014, but felt they needed a bit of a facelift.

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TAX

from page 31

nowhere. But it also mentions that North Carolina and Washington have imposed taxes on some sales. “The threat is real because politicians share bad ideas, and sales tax on services is a bad idea for all Arizonans,’’ the web site claims. The group would provide only prepared statements. “We pay plenty of taxes without adding new taxes on buying a home, cutting your hair, getting your car fixed or even taking your pet to the veterinarian’’ said real estate agent Holly Mabery who chairs the effort. James Emch, chief executive of Valley Child Care and Learning Centers, said that a service tax “would increase the cost of childcare adding an unfair burden on working families.’’ The initiative came as a surprise to House Speaker J.D. Mesnard. “I’ve not been looking at taxing services in any reform I’ve been working on this session,’’ the Chandler Republican said. “I don’t know of other efforts to go down that road, either.’’ But Mesnard said that doesn’t mean he will support constitutionally barring lawmakers from ever considering it, particularly as the economy changes. “I certainly don’t like having our hands tied,’’ he said. And the speakers said there is a political risk for the Realtors going forward now with a preemptive strike.

“I suppose there’s a possibility that it fails,’’ Mesnard said, essentially a message that voters have no problem with taxing services. “It could backfire a bit.’’ Sen. Steve Farley, D-Tucson, who has urged colleagues for years to review salestax exemptions, said no one, including himself, has ever urged taxes on things like child care and veterinary services. And he said if anyone wants a carve-out for specific items like this, they should be considered and debated at the Capitol one at a time. “Then the public gets to weigh in and lawmakers get to weigh in and we make a decision the way we do in a representative democracy in our Legislature,’’ Farley said. But he also lashed out at the Realtors for seeking to forever take a potential source of revenues off the table. “Do they not need good roads, good fire and police protection, good schools to sell their houses?’’ he asked. “They’re cutting off any ability of people to fund that stuff in the future as the economy changes,’’ Farley continued. “Realtors used to support efforts to try to improve our communities instead of just try to take away any tools we have.’’ There’s a lot out there that’s untapped if lawmakers find that people are buying fewer actual goods in favor of services. Untapped – and untaxed – services range from doctor visits at $454 million and legal services at $185 million to travel agents at $70 million, beauty salons at $18 million and $2 million paid to diet and weight loss centers.

Taxing services Here are some of the services that are untaxed by Arizona and the state Revenue Department’s estimate of how much tax revenue they would generate.

Hospitals - $810 million Doctors - $454 million Legal - $185 million Securities brokerage - $117 million Auto repair - $105 million Accounting/bookkeeping - $82 million Travel services - $70 million Advertising/public relations - $41 million Waste collection - $39 million Investment advice -- $35.6 million Technical/trade schools - $32 million Child day care - $22 million Beauty salons - $19 million Chiropractors - $13.7 million Parking lots and garages -$11.0 million Death care services - $9.3 million Pet care (not veterinary) - $3.5 million Nail salons- $3.1 million Barbers - $558,000 -- Source: Arizona Department of Revenue

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Medicare can help you check for glaucoma, but learn how BY GREG DILL AFN Guest Writer

re you at risk for glaucoma? Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes loss of vision – usually side vision – by damaging the optic nerve, which sends information from your eyes to your brain. Some forms of glaucoma don’t have any symptoms, so you may have it even if you don’t have trouble seeing or feel any pain. That’s why glaucoma is often called “the sneak thief of sight.” Fortunately, you can prevent vision loss by finding and treating problems early. Medicare covers a glaucoma test once every 12 months for people at high risk for glaucoma, including people who answer “yes” to one or more of these questions: Do you have diabetes? Do you have a family history of glaucoma? Are you African American and 50 or older? Are you Hispanic American and 65 or

older? Glaucoma tests are covered under Medicare Part B (medical insurance). An eye doctor who’s legally allowed to do this test in your state must do or supervise the screening. How much will the test cost you? You pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible ($183 this year) applies. If the test is done in a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay a copayment. To find out how much your specific test will cost, talk to your doctor or other health care provider. The specific amount you’ll owe may depend on several things, such as: other insurance you may have, how much your doctor charges, whether your doctor accepts Medicare payment as full payment, the type of facility where you’re tested and the location where you’re tested. There is no cure for glaucoma. Vision lost from the disease cannot be restored. Without treatment, people with glaucoma will slowly lose their peripheral (side) vision. If glaucoma remains untreated, people may miss objects to the side and out of the corner of their eye. They seem

to be looking through a tunnel. Over time, straight-ahead (central) vision may decrease until no vision remains. Immediate treatment for early-stage, open-angle glaucoma can delay progression of the disease. That’s why early diagnosis is very important. Glaucoma treatments include medicines, laser trabeculoplasty, conventional surgery, or a combination of these. While these treatments may save remaining vision, they do not improve sight already lost from glaucoma. Glaucoma is detected through a comprehensive dilated eye exam that includes the following: Visual acuity test. This eye-chart test measures how well you see at various distances. Visual field test. This test measures your peripheral vision. It helps your eye care professional tell if you have lost peripheral vision, a sign of glaucoma. Dilated eye exam. In this exam, drops are placed in your eyes to widen, or dilate, the pupils. Your eye care professional uses a special magnifying lens to examine your retina and optic nerve for signs of damage and other eye problems. After the exam,

your close-up vision may remain blurred for several hours. Tonometry measures pressure inside the eye by using an instrument called a tonometer. A tonometer can detect glaucoma. Numbing drops may be applied to your eye for this test. Pachymetry is the measurement of the thickness of your cornea. Your eye care professional applies a numbing drop to your eye and uses an ultrasonic wave instrument to measure the thickness of your cornea. Information: nei.nih.gov/health/glaucoma/glaucoma_facts. -Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona. You can get answers to your Medicare at 1-800-633-4227.

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At the Horizon Chiropractic Center, our sole purpose is to help you achieve resolution to your problems, not just temporary pain relief. In maintaining your nervous system free of interference over long periods of time, we provide our patients the opportunity to conquer chronic disease and other health challenges.

Liberty Mutual – Ben Freeman 4505 E. Chandler Blvd., Ste 145 Ahwatukee 602-997-4700 ext. 55940 libertymutual.com/ben-freeman

Ben Freeman can help you find the coverage you need and the discounts you deserve on auto, home and life insurance options.

Montessori Educare Academy 1244 East Chandler Blvd. Ahwatukee. 480-283-8885 montessori-educare.com Montessori Educare Academy consists of three classrooms. Each prepared environment includes Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, and Math. We accommodate children ages 3-6 in our primary program. The classrooms are multi-age rooms which include kindergartners. With our low teacher/student ratios, we offer a very individualized learning experience for each child.

(Special to AFN)

Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce members gathered for an after-work mixer recently at HomeBridge Financial.

Arizona Grand Resort Golf Course AZ Draperies and Pillows LLC AZ Pool Expert Crexendo Desert Dentistry Elements Massage Honey Baked Ham Company Keep Phoenix Beautiful. Inc. MidFirst Bank Music Maker Workshops Thompson Family Xpress Automotive

EVENTS For more info on these and other upcoming events, visit ahwatukeechamber.com.

March 15

4:30–5:30 p.m. JMJ Marketing ribbon cutting Foothills Golf Club 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive Ahwatukee

March 16

7:45–9 a.m. Toastmaster Open House 4435 E. Chandler Blvd. Suite 100 Ahwatukee Free

March 20

7:45–8:45 a.m. Tuesday Power Partners Open House Jason’s Deli 7230 W. Ray Road Chandler. Free.

March 21

5:30–7 p.m. After 5 Evening Mixer US Bank Home Mortgage 1345 E. Chandler Blvd., Bldg. 2 Suite 11 Ahwatukee $5 members, $15 general admission

March 22

Noon–1 p.m. Marketplace LLC Ribbon Cutting 2929 N. 44th St. Phoenix

How to make Wi-Fi bring value to your business BY MICHAEL LAPORTE AFN Guest Writer

hen it comes to Wi-Fi in public places, customers expect free, fast and legally compliant access wherever they are. This is far from a new development, and our always-on society has created a strong international Wi-Fi market, which is expected to be worth more than $93 billion by the end of this year, according to a recent report by Markets and Markets. That’s great news for the consumer, and for the Wi-Fi providers, but to date it has offered little in the way of value for the businesses that provide it. However, the balance is now beginning to be addressed through social Wi-Fi, which offers businesses a range of advantages that can help to build profit and develop a loyal customer base. What is social Wi-Fi? It ensures that anyone using the internet service within a public space such as a bar, cafe, restaurant or hotel, will be required to simply “like” the relevant Facebook page or “tweet” about their location to gain access. No additional sign-up or passwords are required. Once connected, Wi-Fi analytics serve demographic and engagement information from users to the venue, which allows the business to understand who is visiting and using the hotspot, how long they are online, as well as their age, gender and any other relevant information they offer in their social

networking profile. This means that when customers are using free Wi-Fi, the venue can share personalized offers, provide mobile payment facilities, generate a marketing list, track consumer behavior and build its brand. Let’s take a shopping center as an example. Management could offer social Wi-Fi throughout the walkways to provide unobtrusive access to the internet without the need for customers to be inconvenienced by entering into detailed and time consuming sign-up procedures. In addition, the shopping center provides a personalized login page that is used to promote offers, communicate news and engage with shoppers on a number of relevant topics. The shopping center also regularly edited the social media messaging offered to new and returning customers to generate interest and loyalty. So, how can you make your Wi-Fi investment work harder for you? Make your customer Wi-Fi access free. Ensure consumers actually know that you have Wi-Fi in the first place through signage. Make connecting to your network effortless and fast. No passwords to remember, no long-winded multiple steps to log-on. Make sure that you maximize your branding and marketing opportunities. Encourage engagement with your brand via social login options. Brand up the landing page and continue the conversation through offers and email marketing after they leave.

Make it secure. Don’t make the mistake of installing a router and then handing out the password. This could put your network at risk, including any EPOS system. You need to be sure that your Wi-Fi has the ability to separate internal traffic from public traffic and has a secure log-in process. More than half the people who use social Wi-Fi post messages about brands when logging on. With this in mind, businesses can tailor posts according to current need and target these posts to reach each person’s network of friends. Integrate your on- and offline data. You can ask customers to add in their store card number for additional offers, allowing you to tie in online data with in-store data even further, providing tailored benefits to your customers. You could also offer your partners sponsorship of the WiFi service, and/or advertising space on branded areas, landing pages, in-store or via subsequent emails. Michael LaPorte is the co-founder and owner of GO Interactive Media, a digital transformation company specializing in customer engagement, digital marketing and vertical ecommerce solutions. Information: gointeractivemedia.com.

CORRECTION

The Feb. 28 edition of Main Street Ahwatukee published the wrong photo of guest writer Kyle Timmons, franchise owner of Office Evolution Phoenix in Ahwatukee.

FAITH

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

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God indeed makes something good out of bad things BY LISA JISA AFN Guest Writer

n past columns, I’ve shared how I finally got a proper diagnosis of Lyme disease in July 2015 after more than 10 years of misdiagnoses and troublesome health issues. I also have mentioned a forthcoming divorce. I’ve been trusting God through it all, but life has not been easy and I’ve often wondered if the words of Romans 8:28 would ever apply to me on this side of Heaven. “We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.” How could God possibly make something good out of things I’ve been

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through? I am excited to share that Lyme disease went into remission last summer! I didn’t know how bad I had felt until I realized I felt good – it was the absence of pain that finally dawned on me. In mid-September, I cheered for a friend competing in an Ironman race and helped at an aid station. The day was so inspiring that I decided becoming an Ironman would be a memorable way to celebrate Lyme going into remission. I’d have one year to prepare for a 2.4mile open-water swim followed by a 112-mile bike ride and a full 26.2-mile marathon! Due to the impending divorce, I had to think about getting back into the work force after 25 years of raising kids and homeschooling.

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Lyme might be in remission, but my newly strengthened immune system didn’t need the daily battle of classroom teaching once again. Massage therapy interested me, but could my hands withstand the hard work? Lyme hadn’t been kind to my wrists. Before registering for classes, I wanted confirmation from the Lord. I sat down one day in early November preparing to pray about the situation but felt strongly that first I should do the next lesson of a Bible study. The chapter was called “Your Experience Can Encourage Others.” It was good, but nothing too deep. Then I got to the last page. Every chapter ended with something to think about for the week. That week’s reminder was the “heart and hand” design. You’ve probably seen this symbol of a heart inside a hand often accompanied by the phrase “Hands to work, hearts to God.” Hands – the very things for which I was seeking answers. The lesson wrapped up with the encouragement to give your heart to God and cooperate with His plans for your life so He could use you to do His work. God’s plans for my life, not my plans for my life. Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” My plans (being a wife, a homeschool mom and many of the “good” things I did) were over. But

that didn’t mean God was done with me. Confirmation from God is a great thing, yet a nagging curiosity remained. It would be quite a leap of faith to register for classes. I trusted Him, but I still wanted to know if my hands would be strong enough for this new endeavor. As I looked at my hands, it occurred to me that they were stronger right then than ever before in my life. Why? Because I started swimming as part of Ironman training. Every stroke of freestyle has been strengthening my wrists and hands. My eyes were opened to see how things can indeed work together for my good and God’s glory. I was a little concerned about finding time to train for Ironman as a full-time student until I learned that classes for the massage therapy program beginning second semester are held in afternoons and evenings. That means daylight hours are available for Ironman training. The timing of my schedule had been beautifully orchestrated. Job 42:2 says, “I know that You can do anything and no plan of Yours can be thwarted.” I never would have predicted that at age 51, I’d be in college preparing to be a massage therapist while simultaneously facing a divorce, celebrating chronic Lyme in remission and training to become an Ironman. None of it is a coincidence. I’m right smack-dab in the middle of God’s plan, and there’s no place I’d rather be.

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@AhwatukeeFN @AhwatukeeFN

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Ryan Sims celebrates sobriety and Americana BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GET OUT Editor

yan Sims twirls his e-cigarette between his fingers in the Los Angeles studio of his producer, Justin Gray, as the Canadian-born knob-turner does his magic. Gray rocks back and forth as he adds keyboards to the song “Redhead.” Sims patiently listens. He’s proud of his EP, “My Side of the Story,” but there’s just something about letting the outside world hear it. “I am excited to let people who hadn’t heard anything take a first listen,” Sims said. “It’s like showing off your new baby.” Sims will perform during the Great American Barbecue and Beer Festival, which runs from noon to 10 p.m. March 24, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler, chandlerbbq.com. Tickets are $10$175. The collection is the culmination of what has been a trying year for Sims. In the last 12 months, the Cave Creek resident broke his foot, entered rehab for opioid addiction and ended a long-term relationship.

Ryan Sims will be bringing his vocal magic to the Great American Barbecue and Beer Festival March 24 in Chandler.

“Just getting out here and being several hundred miles away from Phoenix for a month is extremely cathartic,” Sims said. “On top of that, having the kind of schedule you keep when you’re recording a record just keeps your mind focused.” The working respite helped ease the anger he was feeling about his ex-girlfriend. “I didn’t like who it made me become,” he said. “I was so angry with her. I would really lash out. At the same time, I couldn’t help it because I was just so mad.” To create his new album, he went backward, listening to his first three records. It was an eye-opening experience. “I give really good relationship advice. Now, if I could only take it,” he said. “Literally, most of my songs in some way involved a relationship—the good the bad and the ugly. Listening to your own advice is not an easy thing. Emotions get in the way of being practical.” Gray and Sims’ manager, Darrin Pfeiffer, collected a dream team of musicians for Sims to See

SIMS on page 39

Pomegranate Cafe skips Devour to focus on new location BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY AFN Staff Writer

everal East Valley restaurants and food purveyors gained exposure to a wider statewide audience when they plied their wares at the Devour Culinary Classic, but Pomegranate Cafe fans were disappointed that the Ahwatukee restaurant was a no-show at the annual Arizona-centric food and drink gathering put on by the Local First Arizona non-profit group. The Pomegranate Cafe was slated to prepare vegan chickpea and oyster mushroom croquettes at the event, which featured over 200 restaurants, breweries, wineries and other vendors. But the restaurant cancelled so employees can focus on its recently-opened second location in Phoenix. Attendees had the chance to enjoy the sbest that the Valley food scene has to offer.

and operates out of a vintage 10-seat diner that developer DMB purchased through a Craigslist post. Attracting diners outside Eastmark can be difficult because “it’s a 45-minute drive (from Phoenix)” and Devour gave the restaurant the chance to reach more people in the greater Phoenix market, Chef Adam Allison said. (Jennifer Lind Schutsky/Special to the Tribune) Allison, whose booth The Handlebar Diner from Eastmark dished up buttermilk-brined was set up right near chicken wing with Alabama barbecue sauce and a sweet corn. the VIP entrance to the Handlebar Diner, the first major restau- event, served those potential new customrant to come to the Eastmark mas- ers a buttermilk-brined chicken wing with ter-planned community in East Mesa, par- Alabama barbecue sauce and a sweet corn ticipated in the event for the first time this and green chile fried ice cream. year. The restaurant opened in April 2017 He also used the opportunity to tout

another food business coming to Eastmark, Steadfast Farms. The farm, which operates out of Queen Creek, is opening an urban farm location next door to Handlebar Diner and provided the pickled vegetables served alongside the chicken wings. The west side of Mesa was also represented at Devour by Worth Takeaway, a sandwich shop located downtown. The restaurant, which dishes out high-end sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients, served up a Cuban sandwich, banana pudding and a pineapple-jalapeño soda. The event was a way to reach customers outside Mesa, co-owner Jim Bob said. “We try to be really strategic about how we put our name out there,” Bob said, noting that they don’t have a sign up outside their storefront. The approach seemed to be working. See

DEVOUR on page 38

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

Award-winning Simply A Cappella is ‘small but mighty’ BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GetOut Editor

erri Ramey vividly remembers her first public performance. She was 3 years old and it was at a mother-daughter banquet at a Chicago church. “I did four songs and they made a wax record,” said Ramey, a Mesa resident. “I got $1 with a red ribbon wrapped around it. I still have it. I made a collage and it’s in that collage.” Ramey hasn’t stopped singing since. Now she performs with Simply A Cappella, a chapter of the Sweet Adelines. The group will compete during Gateway to Harmony, Region 21 Golden West, Convention and Competition, April 19 to April 22 at the Orpheum. “We’re a competitive chorus and we’re doing extremely well. Simply A Cappella has about 25 members,” she said. “We’re not a big chorus; we’re small but mighty.

DEVOUR

Ramey is multitalented. She plays piano, an instrument she took up at age 8. Her mother taught her to play the instrument and inspired her. “Music is a big part of my life and fun, fun,” she said. “I find it extremely rewarding. People just love music, no (Celisse Jones/AFN Contributor) matter what kind. Jerri Ramey plays an organ in her Mesa home. “Music is a big part of my I think they like to life and fun, fun,” she said. be entertained. It’s “We won medals a couple yeas ago. We’re stuck with me and that’s what I had done.” excited about the competition. For five Ramey was introduced to barbershop muyears it’s been at the Orpheum in Phoenix. sic through a former classmate during a 1980 We stay at one of the hotels down there. class reunion. The quartets are on Friday and the choruses “At one of my high school class reunions, I are on Saturday.” was singing a couple songs from school and

from page 37

“This is my first time (trying Worth Takeaway) and it’s fantastic,” Chandler resident Becky Herbst said. She said she would definitely consider making the trip to Mesa to try Worth’s sandwiches at the restaurant in the future. A few longtime Devour participants also hail from the East Valley. The Dhaba, an Indian restaurant in Tempe that serves authentic Punjab cuisine, has worked the event for several years now and drew a long line of patrons shortly after opening the booth. “It’s good, tasty and flavorful,” Phoenix resident Nicole LaSlavic said of The Dhaba’s chicken tikka masala. She added that after trying the restaurant at Devour, she would consider making the drive to the restaurant from her home in Central Phoenix. “We’ve been participating because this is a signature event, and we are very active in Local First Arizona,” The Dhaba owner Raveen Arora said. Fellow Tempe restaurant Cafe Lalibela is another longtime Devour participant. The restaurant serves traditional Ethiopian cuisine and offered guests a spicy beef stew called key sega wat and a red lentil stew called misir wat. The dish also featured the restaurant’s popular injera bread, light brown crepe-like bread made from a native Ethiopian grain. “Many people can come to (Devour) and try your food for the first time,” general

(Jennifer Lind Schutsky/Special to AFN)

Toasted Mallow from Gilbert offered up desserts at Devour.

manager Anibal Abayneh said. The restaurant has gained a large following throughout the Valley and it recently struck a deal with Whole Foods to have the grocery chain carry its food in the hot bars at local locations. Beyond the traditional restaurants, Devour also included other food businesses from the East Valley. Doc’s Artisan Ice Cream, which has participated in the event for the past five years, sells its desserts from its storefront in Tempe at Priest Drive and Warner Road and has gained a large following over the years. “Lots of our business comes from doing

events like this,” owner Doc Brown said. “Lots of people come looking for us every year and I remind them to come to the shop.” Doc’s served an array of its handcrafted popsicles in flavors like raspberry chambord sorbet, coconut lemongrass lime sorbet and bananutella gelato. Toasted Mallow, the Gilbert dessert shop formerly known as Fluff It Marshmallow, served up two of its signature gourmet marshmallows with fillings like cookie dough and cherry cordial. The Gilbert retailer’s popularity has boomed recently thanks to a recent Buzzfeed video with over 1.7 million views on

one of these gals said, ‘Are you still singing anywhere? You were always in choirs.’” The next week, Ramey went to rehearsal and the rest is history. “The harmonies are just so beautiful, no matter what song you sing,” she said. “The harmony, you can’t really explain it. It’s so pretty. I started with that and just continued.” Upon moving to the East Valley, Ramey joined Simply A Cappella, which is now led by conductor Topher Keene. The group performs a variety of tunes, including “Orange Colored Sky,” “Mood Indigo” and an armed forces tribute. Choreography is included in performances. The group rehearses from 7 to 10 p.m. Thursdays at First United Methodist Church in downtown Mesa, 15 E. First Avenue. For more information, call Ramey at 480-807-0031. “We tell the story of the song with our face,” she said. “The performances are a lot of fun and people really enjoy it a lot.” Facebook and a new recipe book “Marshmallow Heaven” authored by co-owner Tricia Arce with photographer Joanie Simon. Toasted Mallow also was gaining fans outside Gilbert at the Devour event. “So far (the response) has been great,” co-owner Hazel Arce said. “No one knows you can make marshmallows from scratch.” Just a few feet from the Toasted Mallow table another from-scratch food producer called Proof Artisan Bread was handing out a variety of baked goods. The bakery doesn’t have a storefront and operates out of owner Jon Przybyl’s home in Mesa. “We’re the only commercial bakery using (Tempe-based) Hayden Flour Mills’ ancient grains in all of our breads,” Przybyl said. The company also used locally sourced Mesa lemons for the lemon curd on one of its pastry offerings for the event. Proof sells its goods in Gilbert at The Farm at Agritopia and Gilbert Farmers Market. Its products are also available in Mesa at Mezona Market and Tempe at Tempe Farmers Market. Przybyl, who bought Proof from founder Jared Allen last June, said he was invited to attend the Devour event and “you can’t pass this up.” The timing was especially perfect considering the company just began selling its bread in Phoenix. “The Phoenix market is new to us,” Przybyl said. “We just entered Phoenix with the Phoenix Public Market in September and the Uptown Farmers Market in February.” – Reach Wayne Schutsky at 480-898-6533 or wschutsky@timespublications.com.

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SIMS

from page 37

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work with: former John Mellencamp drummer Kenny Aronoff on drums; the Rolling Stones’ bassist Darryl Jones; Elton John’s keyboardist Kim Bullard and Lady Antebellum’s guitarist Jason “Slim” Gambill. “This was the perfect combination of people to create this Americana-country-rock hybrid sound that is Ryan Sims,” Gray said. A former Detroit-area hockey player, Gray is no slouch himself. He has worked with John Legend, Mariah Carey, Joss Stone and James Bay. “Ryan has all the best elements of classic singers like classic Joe Cocker and John Mellencamp mixed with more contemporary singers like Chris Robinson and Ray Lamontagne to create a unique identifiable sound,” Gray said. The resume of his other producer, Doug Grean, boasts projects with Sheryl Crow, Ricki Lee Jones, Glen Campbell, Scott Weiland, Slash, The Crystal Method and John Taylor of Duran Duran. Grean co-produced one song, “Before I Saw Myself,” and co-wrote the single apparent, “American Things.” “Ryan is one of the most talented guys who has ever walked through my door; top 10 for sure,” said Grean, the former guitarist/touring musical director of Weiland’s the Wildabouts.

“The combination of a good voice and a good writer is a rare thing – especially today,” he added. “He has both things going on, not to mention he’s a handsome guy. He’s a triple threat.” But what about the Grammy winners with whom he has worked? “They may have been more famous than Ryan, but not more talented,” Grean said. Sims’ strong work ethic and friendly demeanor is well known. The former singer for local and national favorite EastonAshe, Sims has pursued a solo career since the band broke up in 2011. He competed on The X-Factor later that year. He also put in time as a songwriter in Nashville. But it all began in Cave Creek, a town where he played regularly. He’s been associated with Harold’s since high school. “I was bussing tables in high school and I’d see all of these great bands,” he said. “I probably saw more than I should have at 16 years old. Now, a lot of those old band members are my friends and colleagues, like Mogollon. It was amazing to see those guys tear it up in honkytonk bars back then and I thought, ‘I could do that.’” And he has. His early 2014 party at Harold’s for his self-titled debut record sold more than 1,500 tickets. “It was probably the most fun I’ve ever had at a show,” Sims said with a wide grin.

Sims and Pfeiffer met years ago when the local singer was working in a different project. “I saw Ryan play at a dinner me and my then-partner attended,” Pfeiffer, the former drummer for Goldfinger. “We were floored. We thought, ‘Where did he come from?’ We asked him to do a proper showcase. He played four or five songs and that’s when I was taken back. “Every song was better than the one before it. His voice was strong. His lyrics were hooky. I couldn’t wait to get these songs recorded and out in the world.” That didn’t pan out but Pfeiffer has big plans in mind for Sims. “Anybody can pick up a guitar. Anybody can write lyrics. Anybody can write a melody,” he said, adding: “But is it good or not? Anybody can paint, but is it good enough? Ryan’s songs—‘songs’ plural—blew me away. Everything he writes has the potential to make a mark in the industry worldwide. “He has tons of charisma. He’s a good-looking kid. He’s easy on the eyes. He’s a great guitar player. He has a really strong voice and he’s got great songs. That’s a vicious cocktail for success.” Sims hit the ground running in Los Angeles, where he collaborated with Grean and Gray to write songs. He admits it wasn’t an easy task. “I have a hard time co-writing with people

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sometimes,” he said. “I can be a bit of a bully in a songwriting session, if I don’t feel the person who’s writing with me is contributing. Sims calls Gray and Grean “incredible writers,” however. “They pushed me to a higher level than I was used to going,” he said. “I think the music on the album will reflect that.” Sims pauses when asked what he learned from the recording process. He then said, “I don’t know what I’m supposed to learn. Don’t trust people? I have more adventures to come when I get back to Phoenix. That’s for sure.” Part of that is his ongoing recovery from opioid addiction, which stemmed stenosis in his neck. After suffering for some time, he found out his problem could be solved with ablation. Even though he no longer needed the medication, he continued to take the pills. “My story isn’t different from any other stories,” he said. “I think it was irresponsible of the doctor’s office. The procedure I received at the end fixed me completely. I wasn’t offered that until eight months of being on heavy amounts of pills. “I think, a lot of times, rehab comes with an ugly stigma. It takes guts and bravery to walk through those doors and say, ‘I need help.’ It doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re getting strong.”

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

The Nile rebrands theater and cafe, undergoes renovations BY CONNOR DZIAWURA Get Out Staff

ing church pews for seating; and an Egyptian Scarab beetle mural as a focal point. “Just updating sound (and) updating the look in there so that there’s a cohesion between the coffee shop and the theater,” Donovan said. (Special to AFN) The goal, she The new Nile Cafe featues coffees and small meals, with an emphasis on said, is to make pavegan options. trons feel as if they and the bathrooms, kind of updated things are in a common space. This is apparent, – new paint, new everything. We repainted with guests now permitted entry through the café rather than the alley. the inside of the theater.” Sound and aesthetic changes extend The sound also has been upgraded, she partly to the theater’s hardcore-centric said, with additional soundproofing. “We have all-digital sound,” Donovan said. basement venue, The Underground. Con“We were running a lot of old-school NL4 cert tickets will still, however, specify which cable type of stuff. Now, we’re on a Cat5 area of the theater a show is in, Donovan system with a digital board and some more said. As for the cafe, the previously dubbed powered elements to the sound system.” Other notable changes include new stage Volstead Public House is simply The Nile curtains; renovations to the bar area, includ- Cafe. Despite the new brand image for The

he historic Nile Theater has had a storied 94-year history in the Valley. Founded as a movie theater and eventually converted to a music venue, The Nile Theater has been a staple of Mesa’s Main Street for decades. After closing in 2002, the venue reopened in 2010 under new ownership. Recently, however, the entity was rebranded and renovated, with its previously separate music venue and cafe at 105 W. Main St. modified to now operate under one name: The Nile. Beyond the new brand image, however, The Nile underwent a variety of experience-improving renovations. The changes, owner Michelle Donovan said, serve as a launch into the city of Mesa’s planned façade improvements, including removal of colonnades in front of many businesses, along Main Street. With those renovations still to come, The Nile’s interior has been renovated to go along with the exterior’s future facelift. “We’ve been slowly doing it over the past year,” Donovan said. “We redid that lobby

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Nile, the cafe’s choices will remain almost entirely dedicated to the vegan lifestyle, Donovan said. Options include sandwiches, salads and pastries, among other items. While all its food is vegan, dairy products are available for coffee drinkers. “We do carry half and half and regular milk for the coffees because we’re not quite there yet in downtown Mesa,” Donovan said. “The promising thing is, when we started, we carried dairy cheese as well. We came to a point where people just weren’t ordering it, so we were able to phase it out. “I’m vegan myself, so I was excited for that to be acceptable down here,” she continues. “We’re slowly getting there.” The cafe’s menu will continue to expand throughout the year. “One of the things that we are doing this year is we’re adding a lot more vegetables into the menu,” she said. “We’re going to try to bring in a lot more fresh and organic, hopefully, local produce to the menu.” The Nile Cafe also now serves a $6 graband-go lunch option, which consists of a tea and a different salad each day. Information: 480-559-5859, niletheater. com.

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One-skillet Mexican Wonder is a deliciously cheesy delight BY JAN D’ATRI AFN Contributor

ho doesn’t love a great meal in one skillet? Cooking up one-pot wonders can put the fun back in fundamental cooking like no other method. My One Pot Mexican Wonder starts with a bottom layer of flour tortillas fanned out and

One Skillet Mexican Wonder Ingredients:

6 “table size” (8 inch) flour tortillas 1 can (15 oz.) chili of your choice (beans, no beans, vegetarian, turkey or beef) 6 eggs 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 1 (16 oz.) container fresh salsa or pico de gallo, divided Optional, diced green chile (4 oz.)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large oven safe (8” or 10”) cast iron or heavy skillet, place all 6 flour tortillas slightly overlapping each other with about 1 inch of the tortilla above the rim of the skillet. (Tortillas will look like a giant flower.) In a small pot, heat chili to just warm. (That makes it easier to spread.) Pour chili over the tortillas. With a spoon, make an indentation in the chili in 6 places. Very carefully crack 6 eggs and place one in each indentation. Sprinkle cheese over the eggs. Dot with half the container of salsa or pico de gallo. Add green chiles if desired. Sprinkle with

overlapping to look like a big flower onto which everything else is layered, nestled and sprinkled. The tortillas cook together to form a flavorful crunchy bowl, and when you lift it out, your pot is clean. My favorite thing about the One Pot Mexican Wonder is that you make it your own! Want it more spicy? Go for it! More cheesy? Why not! I guarantee this recipe will turn into one pot of wonderful. 3 tablespoons sliced black olives 2 tablespoons minced cilantro Salt and pepper to taste

olives. Place skillet in oven and cook for about 20 minutes or until eggs are desired doneness. (Do not overcook eggs.) Remove from oven, sprinkle with cilantro and salt and pepper to taste. To serve, spoon out 1-2 eggs per serving onto individual plates and serve with crispy flour tortilla base and remainder of salsa or pico de gallo. Note: If you are serving the skillet at the table, the handle will be hot for quite some time. Wrap handle in kitchen towel or several paper towels for safety. I found come fantastic cast iron pan handle mitts recently at Cost Plus World Market. Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/recipe/ one-skillet-mexican-wonder.

Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/recipes/one-minute-kitchen.

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PUZZLE ANSWERS on page 45

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Desert Vista High grad leaps into record book for GCU BY ART PREUSS AFN Contributor

Desert Vista High School graduate stole the show when Grand Canyon University’s men’s and women’s track and field teams recently won their third consecutive Western Athletic Conference team championships. Scott Marshall not only set a new GCU pole-vault record by clearing 5.51 meters (18 feet, 1 inch) on his second attempt at that height, but also entered the school record books with another first. Marshall’s vault tied for ninth overall in the country, which helped him become the school’s first qualifier for the NCAA Division I Indoor Championships – an honor accorded to the nation’s top 16 in the event.

The university just completed a fouryear transition from D-II to a fully accredited Division I program. Marshall was recruited to Wake Forest after finishing high school in 2013 with a No. 4 national ranking. But he decided after one season to return to Phoenix and compete for GCU, where the associate head coach was Todd Lehman, the man who introduced Marshall to the sport 10 years ago. It was back then that Marshall’s older brother Craig took him to a Flagstaff summer camp for pole vaulters run by Lehman. Scott, then in middle school, got hooked on the event. GCU didn’t offer an engineering major, which was his intended major, when Marshall graduated from Desert Vista in 2013, but added it after he left Wake Forest – a big bonus for his

(Photo courtesy of phxfan.org)

Desert Vista High School graduate Scott Marshall turned some heads with his pole vaulting during a recent tournament.

decision to transfer to Grand Canyon. He has worked through a number of injuries to get to where he is. A broken toe in October 2016 kept him on the sidelines for eight weeks, and last summer he suffered a concussion and collapsed lung from an accident. Marshall, 22, has steadily been working at improving his jumps. Last year, as a redshirt junior, he topped out at 5.4

meters to break his own school record. That vault was 13th best in the nation. During his final year at Desert Vista, he won pole vault at the Arizona Meet of Champions and then went on to finish as runner-up at the Junior Olympics. Marshall’s next goal is to hit 5.7 meters, the qualifying height for the Olympics of World Championships. -Read Art Preuss at phxfan.com

Ahwatukee team takes a YMCA league basketball title AFN News Staff

team made up of Desert Vista High School students just wanted a chance to play where the Phoenix Suns do. But the Heavy Hitters got more than they had ever dreamed of when they took to that court recently and captured the Division II title in the YMCA Competitive team after defeating their counterparts from the West Valley in a nail-biter 48-44. Though the game was played on the practice court of the Suns’ home at Talking Stick Arena, Coach Jerry Ervin said, “it still was a privilege to be able to play there.” And how they got there is a story in itself. The team formed a few months ago after Ervin’s son Elijah and Dean Bittner, the son of Ahwatukee Little League President Dave Bittner, want to play some roundball. So, the boys rounded up a small pack of classmates with the same desire. Most members of the team – made up mostly

(Special to AFN)

The Heavy Hitters include, from left, Coach Jerry Ervin, Jacob Baker, Miles LeBlanc, Dean Bittner, Elijah Ervin, Michael Stecyk (front), Noah Takas, Carlo Jimenez, Brody Mclallen, Braeden Belnap and Coach Dave Bittner.

of sophomores with two freshmen and a junior – play football, run track or play volleyball or baseball for their high school.

“The team was started because Dean Bittner and Elijah Ervin wanted to play basketball in order to keep in shape and have some fun in between their fall and

spring sports seasons,” said the senior Ervin, who coached the team along with Dave Bittner. Both Ervin and Bittner have coached various teams for five years. At one point, the team seemed unstoppable, going 5-0 in the Y Competitive League’s top high school division. They dropped their next three games, Ervin said, but “going into the playoffs, we refocused and fine-tuned our offense and defense.” “For the first game of the playoffs, we, the No. 3 seed squared off against the No. 6 seed,” Ervin said. “Right from the start, we came out aggressive on offense and defense. We ended the first quarter with a 21-0 lead. We kept up the intensity and by the third quarter, our starters were sitting out for the rest of the game. We won the game by a score of 60-43. Then they took on second-seed Mountain View, which had handed the Heavy Hitters their first loss of the See

BASKETBALL on page 46

SPORTS

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Cubs’ public address announcer is Cactus League’s voice BY JIM WALSH Tribune Staff Writer

undreds of thousands of baseball fans have heard Tim Sheridan’s smooth but commanding voice during Chicago Cubs home games at Hohokam Stadium and Sloan Park in Mesa, but very few people would recognize him if he walked past them. Even fans who may have

engaged in a casual conversation with Sheridan at the Mesa Historical Museum, or the Cactus League Experience exhibit in Scottsdale, might not recognize his voice. That’s because Sheridan, 56, of Mesa, reserves his “PA voice,” or public-address voice, for games and does not use it otherwise. It’s a style Sheridan has honed during his 35 years as the Cubs’ publicaddress announcer, making him a Cactus League staple as much as beer vendors and the grass berms beyond the outfield walls where (Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Staff Photographer)

LEFT: Tim Sheridan has been the Cubs’ spring training public-address announcer for 35 years. TOP: Tim Sheridan used to hand legendary Cubs TV announcer Harry Caray his PA microphone to sing his signature rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU from Page 41

fans lounge in the sun. “I am so entrenched in spring training here,” Sheridan said. “It’s probably better than I would have imagined. Being in this niche of the Cubs world has been fascinating and fun.” One of Sheridan’s biggest thrills was when he was the first to make a historic introduction at the Cubs’ first Cactus League home game last year. “I got to announce, ‘the World Champion Chicago Cubs.’ I wasn’t sure I’d ever get to say that,” he said, noting how the Cubs had ended their 108-year championship drought by capturing the 2016 World Series in a breathtaking victory over the Cleveland Indians. Sheridan’s impact on the Cactus League goes well beyond his PA duties. He serves as executive director of the Mesa Historical Museum, filling in after the departure of Lisa Anderson. The museum’s most high-profile exhibit for the past 10 years has been the Arizona Spring Training Experience and Hall of Fame. Someday, Sheridan hopes the exhibit spins off into a museum of his own, as

originally conceived by the late Robert Brinton, a former Cactus League president. Sheridan envisions a mobile museum that would travel throughout the state, telling the baseball story of various Cactus League cities, including those no longer in the league, such as Tucson, Yuma and Casa Grande. A smaller exhibit is currently on display at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library. Like most public-address announcers, Sheridan knows the players are the center of attention, not him. His goal is to give the fans the information they need, such as announcing the lineups, the names of each batter as he steps to the plate, the names of relief pitchers and the names of the base coaches. It’s the advice the Mesa Hohokams imparted to Sheridan when he and other students raised their hands when the civic organization, which sponsors the Cubs every year, asked for volunteers to serve as a PA announcer in 1984. “Just blend in, give them the information, don’t go crazy,” Sheridan said. “When I first started here, I never See

CUBS on page 46

SPORTS

BASKETBALL

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

CUBS

from page 44

regular season. “This was the only team that we had not beat during the regular season. We came out strong on offense and defense against them as well. Throughout the game we were able to maintain a 10-15-point lead. When it was all said and done we won the game 41-26,” Erwin said. Then game the qualifying game to play on the Suns’ turf. Though they lost, “it was a hard fought and our boys played with a lot of heart and intensity,” Ervin said. But the Heavy Hitters still made it to the Suns’ practice court through a variety of circumstances, and took on the West Valley Champions. “This is what our boys worked so hard for all season long, was for this moment,” Ervin said. “It was a great feeling for everyone to be there.” “It was an amazing season and the boys came together as a team and ultimately achieved the goal that they set at the beginning of the season,” he added. “We will look to do it all over again next year.”

from page 45

dreamed I would be here 35 years later.” He uses a clear, unobtrusive style, an intentionally slower cadence to allow for applause, repeating the player’s name twice so that fans keeping score can write it down. He even tries to engender respect for the umpires, a hard job in baseball, by referring to them with a title such as Mr. Jeff Nelson, the home plate umpire in a recent game against the Oakland Athletics. “I have had people tell me, ‘When I hear your voice, I know it’s spring training.’ It’s the familiarity thing that people like,” Sheridan said. Maybe that’s why public-address announcers tend to have long careers in the major leagues. These men seem to become the voice of a stadium, such as the late New York Yankees publicaddress announcer Bob Sheppard, who announced at Yankee Stadium from 1951-2007 with a formal voice using perfect diction. Sheppard was called “The Voice of God” by Hall of Fame outfielder Reggie Jackson, known for slugging homers for the Yankees and Oakland Athletics.

Boston Red Sox legend Carl Yastrzemski also respected Sheppard, saying, “You’re not in the big leagues until Bob Sheppard announces your name.” Sheridan said he uses a monotone voice when announcing the names of the Cubs opponents. “Obviously, we give a little more juice for the Cubs. They’re the home team,” Sheridan said. “Certain names, you give a little more emphasis because you know the fans are excited.” Alliteration also helps, Sheridan said. He quickly pronounces one of his favorites, former Cubs outfielder Sammy Sosa, emphasizing it with two long versions of the letter S. Although Sheridan’s purpose at the ballpark remains the same, the trappings could not be more different. He went from Hohokam Park, where the press sat side by side in one long row, to the more modern Hohokam Stadium in 1997 to the ultra-modern Sloan Park in 2014. At the original Hohokam, he would sit between two legendary announcers with Harry Caray on one side and Ron Santo, the Hall of Fame Cubs third baseman, on the other. He would be entertained by endless wisecracks off the air and fans handing Caray beers over

the rail. He would hand the magnetic Caray his PA microphone to sing his signature rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” Sheridan bought a cassette deck and would play music over the PA, a far cry from Sloan’s modern sound system “I miss the camaraderie of being next to the WGN guys,” Sheridan said. “I would introduce (Caray) and he would sing over the PA microphone.” He said he respected Caray’s relationship with the fans and his love of the game. “He would stay after the game and sign until everyone got an autograph.” Today, Sheridan sits in a glassed-in booth with a far better sound system. He no longer hears the baseball play-by-play announcers, who sit in their own booth. Sloan’s facilities are all state of the art. Still, something is missing from the old days when the wind or rain would sweep through the press box at the old Hohokam or the scoreboard would suddenly go blank. “I think we’ve lost a little bit of the intimacy,” Sheridan said. “It’s nowhere near as intimate as it used to be.” – Reach Jim Walsh at 480-898-5639 or at jwalsh@timespublications.com.

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Obituaries MANNING, Alec Lee

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Long time Ahwatukee resident dies at 25 Alec Lee Manning died December 18, 2017, in Chandler, at the home of his Godmother, Lynn Van Antwerp. The long-time Ahwatukee resident was born on July 14, 1992, in Simi Valley, CA, to Hasel Lee Manning and Nancy Lee Keenum.

He was briefly raised in Valencia, CA, before moving to Phoenix in 1994. He lived in Mountain Park Ranch the majority of his life, attending Keystone Montessori, then Horizon Community Learning Center. He graduated from Horizon Honors High School in 2010. Upon graduation, he took a job with the Fry's grocery store chain, working in the deli department at the Chandler/40th St. location, as the Asst. Manager. Alec is survived by his father, Hasel, as his mother passed away 14 years ago, when he was 11. The memory of Alec's kindness, humor, generosity and love will be carried by all that knew and were touched by him, throughout his brief life. He will be forever missed, but never forgotten. A celebration of life will be held from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Saturday, March 17 at Tumbleweed Park, Cottonwood Pavilion, enter on Celebration Dr., 2250 S McQueen Rd, Chandler, AZ, USA. Please RSVP to his Celebration, to Lynn Van Antwerp, by Facebook PM. Sign the Guestbook at: obituaries.Ahwatukee.com

Need help writing an obituary? We have articles that will help guide you through the process. Deadline for obituaries is Friday at 5pm for Wednesday. All obituaries will be approved by our staff prior to being activated. Be aware there may be early deadlines around holidays.

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Legal Secretary Wanted Small Chandler/Ahwatukee law firm is seeking a full-time legal secretary. Exceptional typing, proof reading and transcription skills are required. A successful applicant will be detail oriented, reliable, able to multitask, and able to work as a part of a team. To apply, please forward a resume, cover letter, and list of professional references to

karmer@holdenarmer.com Empire Farm Labor Contractors, LLC. is hiring 130 Temporary Farmworkers, Laborers, Crop from 3/1/2018 to 12/31/2018: 60 hrs/ week. Workers will walk open fields, cutting romaine or iceberg lettuce from the ground, placing it on an equipment tray where a worker will cut damaged leaves from lettuce heads to ensure size and quality of product is perfect and then pack it into a box, once the box is full the worker will lift the box and push it onto the harvesting belt, bell peppers, green beans, and strawberries will be picked, and boxed and workers will provide plant maintenance while picking. Some workers will work on and move irrigation pipes, thin and hoe weeds with a long handle hoe. Some will operate/machinery. While performing the duties of this job, the employees is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb and balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. Employer will train for two working days in the job duties. $13.18 (prevailing wage). Guarantee of 3/4 of the workdays. All work tools, supplies, and equipment furnished without cost to the worker. Free housing is provided to workers who cannot reasonably return to their permanent residence at the end of the workday. Transportation and subsistence expenses to the worksite will be provided or paid by the employer, with payment to be made no later than completion of 50% of the work contract. Send Resume to: Arizona@Work Foreign Labor Certification: H2A Program, 4000 N. Central Ave., Ste. 1550, Phoenix, AZ 85012, Job order #15780856.

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Fresh Harvest, Inc. seeks 30 temporary Field W o r k e r s t o Harvest/Field Labor Crops (Dry Onions, Beets, Turnips, Onion Transplants, Leek Transplants, Cabbage Transplants), Sprinkler & Irrigation Application & Implementation, General Cleaning & Maintenance (Farm); CalVan Drivers; General Labor in fields located in Maricopa County, AZ. Contract period: March 15, 2018 through May 31, 2018. Wage offered $10.50/hr. A discretionary production bonus may apply. 3/4 of the work hrs. guaranteed. Tools & equipment provided at no cost to the worker. Free housing is provided to workers unable to return to their permanent residence at the end of the work day. Inbound/outbound transportation & subsistence from recruitment point to worksite paid by the employer upon completion of 50% of work contract or earlier. Apply for this job at the nearest AZ Department of Economic Security, Employment Service office, 4635 S. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85040, phone number 602-7710630. Please reference Job Order Number 2930101.

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Ahwatukee Foothills News

FULLY FURNISHED HOME FOR SALE

BY Owner. Custom Built Home 2 Bed 2 Bath Large Master Bedroom With Tub & Shower. Office Room Can Be Used As 3rd Bedroom, Large Living & Family Rooms With Vaulted Ceilings. Fire Place. Beautiful Kitchen With Custom Built Cabinets. Dining Room. Laundry Room. 2 Car Garage & Golf Cart Room w Golf Cart. Home is Completely Furnished. All You Have To Do Is Move In. The Lot Joins the 17th Green at The Arizona Golf Resort In Mesa. You Will Look For A Long Time Trying To Find A Better Home Than This One. Near Shopping Malls, Best Restaurants. Doctor's Offices With Heart & Regular Hospitals Close By.

Call John 480-218-4245 710 S Clearview Ave, Mesa, AZ 85208

Appliance Repair Now

If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It! • Same Day Service • On-Site Repairs • Servicing All Major Brands • Quality Guaranteed

We Also Buy, Sell & Trade Used Appliances Working or Not

480-659-1400 Licensed & Insured

See MORE Ads Online!

www.Ahwatukee.com

CLASSIFIEDS Business/Professional Services

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

Cleaning Services

Garage/Doors

Mila's House Cleaning. Residential & Commercial. Weekly/Monthly/Bi Weekly. Experienced and Reference's Available. 480-290-5637 602-446-0636,

GARAGE DOOR SERVICE

Contractors

Electrical Services HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY

Broken Springs Replaced Nights/Weekends Bonded/Insured 480-251-8610

Not a licensed contractor

“Renovate your Home to Elevate your Life” No Job Too Small ■ Trim Specialists

(602) 702-0799 See Our Website:

Concrete & Masonry

RonakovRenovations.com 20+ Years Experience

- Ahw Resident Since 1987 -

ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932 Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured

ROC#317627 Lic/Bonded/Insured

C. READ & SON ELECTRIC, INC.

Carpet Cleaning

39 Years’ Experience

For ALL of Your Electrical Needs

Family owned and proudly serving Ahwatukee for over 20 years. Powerful Truck Mounted Soft Hot Water Extractions. Carpets, Tile & Grout, Upholstery, Pet Stain/Odor Treatment

480.460.5030 Cleaning Services

CUSTOM CLEANING & DOMESTIC SERVICES *Valley Wide, *Family Owned and Operated *11 Yrs Res & Com Exp. *Specialized Mopping System & Eco Friendly Cleaning Products, *Free Est. *Customized Services, Rentals & Vacation Homes Ref. Avail. We provide quality services customized to your specific needs. Just About Any Cleaning or Domestic Chore! Call: 480-203-3743

JB's House Cleaning Rates to fit your budget! Reliable! No Crews! Owner & Helper only. 13 yrs Experience in Ahwatukee!

Janeth (480) 330-7579

ROC#158440 Bond/Ins

Drywall

RENOVATION SOLUTIONS HOME IMPROVEMENT & RENOVATIONS

General Contractor 30 Years of Experience

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

HOME

HOUSE CLEANING Mention this ad for

50 OFF

When you schedule your Initial Service Visit

($25 off 1st house cleaning & $25 off 2nd house cleaning)

FREE INSTANT ONLINE QUOTE Carpet Cleaning also available.

AHWATUKEE OWNED • BONDED & INSURED

www.HouseSpouse.com

480-834-2905

JOSE DOMINGUEZ DRYWALL & PAINTING House Painting, Drywall, Reliable, Dependable, Honest! QUICK RESPONSE TO YOUR CALL! 15 Years Experience • Free Estimates

Residential Electrician

Call Sean Haley 602-574-3354 ROC#277978 • Licensed/Bonded/Insured

480.266.4589 josedominguez0224@gmail.com Not a licensed contractor.

CLASSIFIEDS 480-898-6465 class@times publications.com

R E N O VAT I O N

• Additions • Alterations • Kitchen and bath remodeling specialists Ahwatukee resident ROC#245469

Total Home Solutions

480-940-6400

Contractors

480.848.9890

H ouse Spouse

Troubleshooting Remodeling Security Lights Recessed Cans RV Outlets Indoor/Outdoor Lighting Spas Fans Electric Car Chargers Dedicated Circuits … and more

2005 2008 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 www.ReadElectricAz.com Ahwatukee Resident

Residential/Commercial www.extractioncleaning.com 100% Satisfaction Guarantee!

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

East Valley/ Ahwatukee

Countertops

Imperial Tile Imports “Big Enough To Serve You, Small Enough To Care For You”

FREE

SPECIAL OFFER Stainless Steel

Undermount Kitchen Sink 2 Equal Bowls with Every Kitchen Over $3,500.00 Photo does not show actual sink.

Call us today for a free quote to start your new dream kitchen or bathroom! 602-254-8406 • 1846 E. McDowell Rd., Phoenix • imperialtileaz.com

???

People are looking in the Classifieds Every day! Email Your Job Post to: class@times publications.com

or Call 480

898-6465

CLASSIFIEDS Handyman

Garage/Doors

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs!

GARAGE DOORS

Painting • Flooring • Electrical • Plumbing Drywall • Carpentry • Decks • Tile • More!

Unbeatable Customer Service & Lowest Prices Guaranteed!

10%

Discount for Seniors &Veterans

FREE

Handyman

CALL DOUG

ce 1999

Opener & Door Lubrication with Repair

2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2014

“No Job Too Small Man!”

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

Ahwatukee Resident, References Available, Insured *Not A Licensed Contractor

Jaden Sydney Associates.com

Same Day Service Repair/Install All Major Brands

Call for Our Monthly Special Discount

Visit our website! Landlord and Homeowner Property Services

• FREE ESTIMATES • Ahwatukee Resident • Dependable & Honest

ROC#126694

Bonded/Insured

Repairs • Drywall • Painting • BINSR Items Trash Removal • HOA Compliance

AND so much more!

FREE Estimates!

Ahwatukee Resident

R.HANDYMAN Rebuild: Under sink floors, drawers & shelving. All sm repairs, welding. Clean carpet traffic areas & stains. Fix: toilets, faucets, gates, doors.

Home Improvement REMODEL CONTRACTOR

Plans / Additions, Patios New Doors, Windows Lowest Price in Town! R. Child Lic#216115, Class BO3 Bonded-Insured-Ref's

ROC095639 BOND/INS'D

480-215-3373

Call Bob 480-893-9482

Home Improvement

Home Remodeling

• BASE BOARDS • DRYWALL No Job Too Small! • ELECTRICAL Senior • PAINTING Discounts! • PLUMBING • BATHROOMS • WOOD FLOORING • FRAMING WALLS • FREE ESTIMATES David Hernandez (602) 802 3600 daveshomerepair@yahoo.com Se Habla Español

480.335.4180 Not a licensed contractor.

Plumbing

Handyman

✔ Painting ✔ Sprinkler Repair ✔ Lighting ✔ Gate Restoration ✔ Replace Cracked ✔ & MUCH MORE! Roof Tiles

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

FOOTHILLS GARAGE DOOR

480-893-8091

480.201.5013

THE HANDYMAN THAT HANDLES SMALL JOBS THAT OTHERS DECLINE

Affordable, Quality Work Sin

480-626-4497 www.lifetimegaragedoorsaz.com

MALDONADO HOME REPAIR SERVICES

Handyman

NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Electrical Paint

• Plumbing • Electrical • Remodel • Additions • Drywall • Painting • Framing ROC #312897 • Patios • Tile & Flooring • All work guaranteed • 30 years experience

Tile

Able Handyman Service LLC

And Much, Much More!

Not a licensed

contractor Jim 480.593.0506 Ablehandyman2009@gmail.com

SOLID ROCK STRUCTURES, INC.

602-332-6694

solidrockstructures@gmail.com Electrical Services

Minuteman Home Ser vices

Landscape Maintenance

ELECTRICAL

Same Day Ser vice Guaranteed 24 / 7 FREE Ser vice Call with Repair s

Code T02

any total work performed minutemanhomeservices.com ROC 242804, 257474, 290005 APS/SRP Certified Contractor BBB A+ • Licensed, bonded, and fully insured for your protection.

480-755-5818

• Tree Trimming & Removal • Gravel Spread • General Yard Work • Weed Removal • Sprinkler Drip & Timer Repair • Insured • Free Estimates • All Work Guaranteed

Not a licensed contractor

10% OFF ANYTHING ELECTRICAL: • Troubleshooting experts • Panel upgrade, breaker replacement • Outlets, Lighting & Ceiling fans

CLEAN-UP & TREE SERVICE

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

Landscape Design/Installation

SPRINKLER & DRIP REPAIR

FERTILIZER PROGRAMS * LAWN SERVICE ROC 282663 * BONDED * INSURED YOUR LAWN XPERT 1995 ROC 2282663 ** B **INCE IINSURED ROC 82663 BEEONDED ONDED NSURED YOUR LAWN XPERT SSINCE 1995

YOUR LLAWN SSINCE 11995 ROC 282663 * EEBXPERT ONDED * INSURED YOUR AWN XPERT INCE 995 YOUR LAWN EXPERT SINCE 1995

A-Z Tauveli Prof LANDSCAPING LLC

We will give you totally new landscaping or revamp your current landscaping!

Wi-Fi Irrigation & Lighting timers Misting Systems

Tree/Palm Tree Trimming • Sprinkler Systems Desertscape • Gardening • Concrete Work Block Wall • Real & Imitation • Flagstone

MOST REPAIRS

UNDER $100

FREE ESTIMATES

602-471-3490 or 480-962-5149

We Do Installs! Warranty On All Work Call Dennis or Lisa

602.329.3396

ROC#276019 • LICENSED BONDED INSURED

SPRINKLER DOCTOR For All Your Irrigation and Outdoor Plumbing Needs!

Give us a call

480-643-9772

House Calls Are Always FREE! We specialize in Repairs and Replacement of

Valves, Timers, Sprinklers & Drip Systems Our Technicians are Local..Experienced..Insured BE WATER WISE..TUNE UP YOUR SYSTEM TODAY Not a licensed contractor

ROC 304267 • Licenced & Bonded

Theplugman.com Theplugman.com Theplugman.com

LAWN AERATING * LAWN SOIL TESTING DE-THATCHING – LAWN SOIL TESTING LAWN AERATING * LAWN SOIL TESTING LAWN AERATING * LAWN SOIL TESTING FERTILIZER PROGRAMS * LAWN SERVICE LAWN AERATING * LAWN SOIL TESTING FERTILIZER PROGRAMS – LAWN SERVICE FERTILIZER PROGRAMS * LAWN SERVICE FERTILIZER PROGRAMS * LAWN SERVICE ROC 282663 * BONDED * INSURED

We Only Service Ahwatukee, So We Are Always Close By To Meet Unexpected Needs

Landscape Lighting

Not a Licensed Contractor

ROC# 256752

WANT A GREEN LAWN?

www.irsaz.com

480-745-5230

480-940-8196 480-940-8196 480-940-8196 480-940-8196 Theplugman.com 480-940-8196

480.721.4146

SONORAN LAWN

Call Lance White

15 + Yrs Exp! All English Speaking Crew

WANTAAGREEN GREEN LAWN? WANT

Theplugman.com

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

Lawn Mowing Starts At $20 Full Service Starts At $70

WANT A GREEN LAWN? WANT LAWN? WANT AA GREEN GREEN LAWN? ROC 282663 * BONDED * INSURED YOUR LAWN EXPERT SINCE 1995

Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician

Specials

Landscape Maintenance

LAWN AERATING * LAWN SOIL TESTING FERTILIZER PROGRAMS * LAWN SERVICE

Irrigation Repair Services Inc.

Landscape Maintenance

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

Landscape Maintenance

Landscape Design/Installation

LEE'S SPRINKLER REPAIR 30 years experience Timers - Valves Heads Leaks FREE ESTIMATES Ahwatukee Resident Call 480-282-7222

Foothills Touch Landscapes LLC Lawn care/Maint. Starting as Low as $25. Install/Design

Not a licensed contractor

Juan Hernandez

SPRINKLER

Drip/Install/Repair Not a licensed contrator

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

Juan Hernandez

TREE

TRIMMING 25 Years exp (480) 720-3840

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online! Call 480-898-6564

Not a licensed contractor

Ahw. Res. 30 yrs Exp Free Estimates. Call Pat (480) 343-0562

Painting PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Interior, Exterior House Painting. Stucco Patching. Gate/Front Door Refinishing. Quality work/Materials Free Estimate Ignacio 480-961-5093 602-571-9015 ROC #189850 Bond/Ins'd

Landscape Maintenance

Complete Lawn Service & Weed Control Starting @ $60/Month! • One Month Free Service • Licensed, Bonded Insured for your protection. • Call or Text for a Free Quote

kjelandscape.com • ROC#281191

480-586-8445

High Quality Results Trim Trees All Types Gravel - Pavers Sprinkler Systems Complete Clean Ups

Jose Martinez • 602.515.2767 English • 602.781.0600 Not a licensed contractor.

Arizona Specialty Landscape

New & Re-Do Design and Installation

Affordable | Paver Specialists All phases of landscape installation. Plants, cacti, sod, sprinklers, granite, concrete, brick, Kool-deck, lighting and more!

Free Estimates 7 Days a Week! ROC# 186443 • BONDED

480.844.9765

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED!

CLASSIFIEDS

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Landscape Design/Installation

BLUE AQUATICA FOUNTAINS New Fountains / Ponds / Waterfalls Maintenance / Repair Everything for your water fountain & water feature needs

Painting

Plumbing

PLUMBERS CHARGE TOO MUCH!!

SUN TECH

PAINTING

Beat Any Price By 10% • Lifetime Warranty Water Heaters Installed - $599 Unclog Drains - $49 FREE RO UNIT w/Any WATER SOFTENER INSTALL NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 Months!! ‘A’ RATED PLUMBING REPAIR Free Estimates • Same Day Service

INC.

Serving Ahwatukee Since 1987 Interior / Exterior • High Quality Materials & Workmanship • Customer Satisfaction ates • Countless References Free Estim • Carpentry Services Now Available

602.625.0599 ROC #155380 Family Owned • Free Estimates

Bonded/Insured • ROC #223709

Best Prices In Town, Call Now!

602-425-8616

The Valley’s Premier Painters

Blueaquaticafountains@gmail.com

Proudly Serving Ahwatukee for a Decade. Family Owned & Operated -Interior & Exterior Painting -Stucco/Drywall Repairs & Texture Matching

480-405-7099

VALLEYWIDE FREE ESTIMATES

ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

480.454.3959

Affinity Plumbing LLC 480-487-5541

LIFETIME GUARANTEE

affinityplumber@gmail.com

Licensed/Bonded ROC #301084

www.affinityplumbingaz.com

Your Ahwatukee Plumber & East Valley Neighbor

-Minor Carpentry -4 Year Warranty! -Competitive Pricing ACP is 100%Veteran Owned & Supports Our Vets with 10% off for all Military Personnel

See What We’re Up To!

www.AcpPaintingllc.com Licensed - Bonded - Insured ROC 290242

FREE ESTIMATES • CALL TODAY!

(480)785-6323

Painting Solid Rock Structures Inc, DBA

SRS Painting Residential & Commercial

• Interior • Exterior • Cabinets • Block Walls & Fences • Accent Walls • Doors & Trim

100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed! All bids include warranty & paint.

Call Cole Gibson at 602-785-8605 to schedule a FREE bid! ROC #312897

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

Anything Plumbing Same Day Service Water Heaters

24/7

Inside & Out Leaks

Bonded

Toilets

Insured

Faucets

Estimates Availabler

Disposals

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

$35 off

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

480-338-4011 Meetings/Events?

ROC#309706

Any Service

ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®

Not a licensed contractor

Get Free notices in the Classifieds!

East Valley PAINTERS

Submit to ecota@timespublications.com Plumbing

Voted #1 Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

PLUMBING

10% OFF

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates! Home of the 10-Year Warranty!

480-688-4770

www.eastvalleypainters.com Family Owned & Operated Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Now Accepting all major credit cards

$35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!

A+ RATED

We Repair or Install ROC # 272721

AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured (480)

704.5422

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

Pool Service / Repair

Plumbing

QUALITY, VALUE and a GREAT PRICE! Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship Summer AC Tune Up - $59 New 14 Seer AC Units - $3,995 New Trane Air Conditioners NO INTEREST FINANCING - 60 Months!! ‘A’ RATED AC REPAIR FREE ESTIMATE SAME DAY SERVICE

Pool Service / Repair

$25 OFF

Filter Cleaning! Monthly Service & Repairs Available

602-546-POOL 7 6 6 5

www.barefootpoolman.com

Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252

480-470-7771

ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

Minuteman Home Services

JuanPavers Hernandez • Concrete

Same Day Service Guaranteed 24/7 ICES FREE Service Call E RVRepairs POO L Swith

P O O L R E PA I R

any total work performed

ANYTHING PLUMBING • Water heaters • Leaks • Garbage disposal • Bathrooms

minutemanhomeservices.com ROC 242804, 257474, 290005 APS/SRP Certified Contractor BBB A+ • Licensed, bonded, and fully insured for your protection.

Code T03

480-755-5818 Pool Service / Repair

Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

Pebble cracking, Plaster peeling, Rebar showing, Pool Light out?

I CAN HELP!

25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

1st Month of Service FREE For a limited time

Call Now!

Charles Rock - Ahwatukee Resident

480.399.ROCK (7625)

charles@clrpoolservice.com

www.clrpoolservice.com SELL YOUR CAR IN THE CLASSIFIEDS! 2 WEEKS STARTING AT $20.80

480.898.6465

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Ahw Resident • Owner Operated Maintenance & Repair Professional and Superior Service

Crops of Luv

"My dream is that one day we will be able to give every "wish" child a scrapbook to remind them that dreams do come true." Jody, co-founder, Ahwatukee based non-profit

Come Join us: Help make embellishments, organize or assist with events, scrapbook, donate your time, money or space. Teens who need to fill Community Service hours for High School are welcome! Come be apart of something Awesome!

Cropsofluv.com 480.634.7763

We maintain, repair and service all types of pools, equipment, filters, cleaning systems, fresh water and salt water systems

Call me, Howard:

CLR Pool Service LLC Excellent Service... First time, Every time!

Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

Meetings/Events

Pool Service / Repair

PLUMBING

10% OFF

See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook

480.231.9651

cropsofluv@cox.net

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online!

AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member

Call 480-898-6564

Not a licensed contractor.

Remodeling

Minuteman Home Services

BATHROOM/KITCHEN REMODEL

in 5 Days or Less!*

Cabinets • Walk-In Tubs • Bathtubs • Showers • Toilets • Vanity • Faucets • Shower Doors • Tile • Lighting

FREE

In-Home Design & Consultation

FAUCET

Included w/ Vanity Install

750 OFF

Complete Bathroom Remodel & Upgrade Install *Some restrictions may apply.

Remodeling REMODELING - Kitchens & Bathrooms

Kitchen & Bath

Remodeling I’m Cindy and I am an Ahwatukee resident with 30 years exp remodeling kitchens & bathrooms. Call me for an appointment. Let me provide you with renderings, ideas and a detailed proposal. We do flooring & granite, as well!

Advanced Concepts Remodeling ROC#147710 Bond/ins

602-980-9922

I will personally manage your project from concept to completion. www.kitchensorbaths.com

Roofing

200 OFF Walk In Tub

minutemanhomeservices.com ROC 242804, 257474, 290005 APS/SRP Certified Contractor BBB A+ • Licensed, bonded, and fully insured for your protection.

480-755-5818

CODE T16

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

480-706-1453

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

CLASSIFIEDS

MARCH 14, 2018 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Roofing

Meetings/Events

The Most Detailed Roofer in the State

Dining For Women (DFW) diningforwomen.org inspires, educates and engages people to invest in programs that make a meaningful difference for women and girls living in extreme poverty. DFW helps women find dignity and strength, develop skills and opportunities, value and support their children's education. We have a local chapter in Ahwatukee which meets the 3rd Thursday every month from 6:30 p.m.-8:30p.m. If you'd like to know more on how you can transform lives and reduce poverty contact Mary Hake at marysullivanhake @gmail.com

ÂŽ

Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC

Roofs Done Right...The FIRST Time! 15-Year Workmanship

Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems

www.timklineroofing.com FREE Estimate and written proposal

480-357-2463 R.O.C. #156979 K-42 Licensed, Bonded and Insured

10 OFF

Window Cleaning

Meetings/Events

Owned & Operated by Ahwatukee Residents

John's Window Cleaning 1-story $135 / 2-story $155 -inside and out up to 30 panes (add'l panes $2) Screens cleaned $2.50 per pane. Power Washing and Re-Screening available Same day Service (480) 201-6471

Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors (AFFAN) is a women's organization, dedicated to cultivating friendships, and goodwill. AFFAN promotes social, charitable and educational events all year long. AFFAN holds monthly luncheon meetings with varied speakers. We offer over 40 monthly activities including Book Clubs, Canasta, Bunco, Euchre, and Bridge. Other monthly activities are Dining Out, Stitch and Chat, Explore Arizona, and Garden Club. Significant others/ spouses can attend some events. For more info contact affanwomensgroup @gmail.com. Check our website at affanwomensclub.com

WITH THIS AD

480-519-9327

southmountainwindowcleaning.com

Roofing

Family Owned/ Operated

Quality Leak Repairs & Re-Roofs

Honest Free Estimates References

Car for Sale?

DENNIS PORTER

480-460-7602 or 602-710-2263

Advertise It Here!

RANDY HALFHILL

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Call 480.898.6465

602-910-1485

Lic#ROC 152111 Bonded

OWNER IS

20yr Ahwatukee Resident

Tile, Flat Roof, and Leak Repair Experts

$1000 OFF when you show this ad

on qualifying complete roof replacements

Let us show you the In-Ex Difference!

inexroofing.com 602-938-7575 CALL FOR YOUR FREE ROOF EVALUATION Serving The Valley Since 1996

Payment Options Available Credit Cards Accepted ROC #: 269218

Licensed - Bonded - Insured

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | MARCH 14, 2018

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Your Hometown Air Conditioning Specialist Happy Holidays from all of us!!! SPRING WINTER TUNE-UP LIMITED TIME OFFER! THE UNSTOPPABLE. r TUNE-UP te -up UP TO WINTER n i e LIMITED TIME OFFER! UP TO TO BRING TIME HOME UNSTOPPABLE. W IT’S $ 95 TUNE-UP un T

FREE $Buy$ a qualifying system and choose: FREE 10-Year Parts and Labor

3,950 3,950

REBATES REBATES OR0% 0% APR APR OR

10-Year Parts and Labor Limited Warranty* Limited Warranty*

0% APR FOR 72 MONTHS* OR*OnUP TO Selected Systems ( 1,295 ValueSystems - No Charge) *On Selected ( 1,295 Value No IN$1,000 IN TRADE-IN ALLOWANCE.** Up to $800 in Charge)

Contingent on qualifying for SRP spring special.

REG. $99. REG. $99. ® It’s Hard To Stop A Trane. Includes a 16-Point Includes a 16-Point Inspection plus a Inspection plus a Utility Rebates* condenser coil rinse condenser coil rinse Every Trane® system is put through the harshest testing imaginable — all so they can run through anything. And thisif accessible if accessible spring, you can get an unbeatable deal on the mostWITH reliable brand heating and cooling. never stop findingRESIDENTIAL ways to ONLY THEofPURCHASE OF**AWeNEW $

WITH THE PURCHASE OF A NEW A/C SYSTEM Up to $800 in Utility Rebates* INSTALLATION bring you products that never stop. ** A/C SYSTEM INSTALLATION FOR 48 OR 60 60 MO. MO. S I N C E 19 8 2

ROC #C39-312643

480-893-8335

FREE

480-893-8335 www.BrewersAC.com

RESIDENTIAL ONLY

Service Call Second Opinion (WITH REPAIR)

A+ Rating

www.BrewersAC.com SINCE 1982

ROC #C39-312643

*Up to to $4,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up to $800 Utility Rebate. The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms A+ Rating apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 7/1/2017 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 12/31/2017.

FREE

Service Call

*Upyour to to $4,650 Trane Brewer’s Rebate, up to $800 dates, Utilitydetails, Rebate. Wells Fargo is issued Wells *See independent DealerDealer for complete program eligibility, and The restrictions. Special Home financingProjects offers ORcredit trade-incard allowances from by $100 up toFargo $1,000 Second Opinion Financial National Bank,only. an Offers Equalvary Housing Lender. Special apply to qualifying purchases with approved credit. valid on qualifying equipment by equipment. All sales mustterms be to homeowners in the United States. Voidcharged where prohibited. **The Wells Fargo The Homespecial Projects credit cardAPR is issued by Wells Fargo Bank N.A., Equal Housing Lender. Specialare terms apply qualifying purchasespayment charged with credit. Thewill special terms APR will terms will continue to apply untilanall qualifying purchases paid intofull. The monthly forapproved this purchase be the amount continue untilthe all qualifying purchases areequal paid in payments full. The monthly payment this purchase(special will be theterms) amountperiod. that will The pay for the purchase in full in equal payments that willto apply pay for purchase in full in during the for promotional APR for Purchases will apply to during the fees promotional (special period.fee The or APRif for apply certaintransactions. fees such as a For late new payment fee or if you cardPurchases for other transactions. For certain such as a lateterms) payment youPurchases use thewill card fortoother accounts, theuse APRthefor is 28.99%. new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. you arethe charged interest interest in any billing cycle,will the minimum interest will be $1.00. This information is accurateand as of If you are charged interest in any billingIfcycle, minimum charge be $1.00. Thischarge information is accurate as of 7/1/2017 3/13/2018 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 5/31/2018. is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 12/31/2017. 3/31/2018. (WITH REPAIR)