Ahwatukee Foothills News - April 1, 2020 by Times Media Group

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Wednesday, April 1. 2020

Social distancing puts rabbis, pastors in bind .............. See page 11

A new normal dawns as schools to remain closed

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Giving life

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

tudents in Ahwatukee schools and their parents learned officially Monday what many probably expected for a while: they won’t be going to a classroom before August, when the new school year begins. Governor Doug Ducey and Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman extended campus closures through the end of the 2019-

see SCHOOLS page 9

Ahwatukee residents showed up Saturday at Desert Foothills United Methodist Church to give urgently needed blood as part of Mark and Kami Troutman’s semi-annual effort on behalf of their 4-year-old daughter Adelyn, Details: page 3. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

A year later, questions remain in Ahwatukee shootout BY DEREK HALL, MACKENZIE SHUMAN, DEVAN SAUER, NICOLE LUDDEN AND JOSÉ-IGNACIO CASTAÑEDA PEREZ Howard Center for Investigative Journalism

irst came the crash, reverberating off the walls of an Ahwatukee community like a “mini atom bomb,” then a barrage of gunfire shattered the desert morning calm. Neighbors scrambled for cover as rounds ripped through metal and cut into picnic tables. One woman hit her bedroom floor and called 911. Workers at nearby schools and day care centers worried whether they should go on lockdown. “It was a war zone,” said Frank Guy, who was in his yard when the shooting started. “I haven’t heard that much rapid fire in that short

of a period of time since I was in Vietnam 50 years ago.” Federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations, a division of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, were pursuing a suspected human smuggler they’d been tracking for days. In three unmarked pickups, four plainclothes members of HSI’s Special Response Team followed the suspect’s SUV as it exited Interstate 10 south of Phoenix, took an unexpected turn and headed into Ahwatukee. As the convoy barreled through the neighborhood, the agents decided to conduct a high-risk maneuver intended to force the SUV to stop. Instead, within seconds, an HSI pickup lay atop a downed tree halfway through a garden

block wall, the driver of the SUV was dead from multiple gunshots, and her four passengers, including the alleged smuggler and a teenage girl, were wounded or injured. The April 11, 2019, shootout in Ahwatukee, although extreme, was not an isolated incident. Since 2011, there have been at least 13 shootings involving HSI agents – most in 201819, according to an investigation by the Howard Center for Investigative Journalism. It’s not clear how many HSI shootings have occurred in the U.S. because ICE officials refused to answer questions and the agency’s data is not publicly available. The Howard Center also found that at least five people had been killed and 11 oth-

The latest breaking news and top local stories in Ahwatukee!

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see SHOOTING page 18

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

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Mark and Kami Troutman greeted donors at the semiannual blood drive they organize in gratitude for their daughter’s care. (Pablo Robles/AFN

Staff Photographer)

Blood donors show up for Addy Troutman AFN NEWS STAFF

ot as many as before, but enough donors showed up Saturday at Ahwatukee residents Matt and Kami Troutman’s semi-annual blood in honor of their 4-year-old daughter Adelyn that the couple called it a success. “It went well considering the restrictions we were faced with,” Matt Troutman said. “It was unlike any drive we ever hosted with donors being separated so much but we pulled it off.” Though the number of people who turned out was “less than usual overall,” he added, “we were pretty happy with the turnout.” Addy has required a blood transfusion every month since birth because her body is incapable of producing red blood cells. To spread awareness of the need for blood, the Troutmans have held a blood drive every spring and fall at Desert Foothills United Methodist Church. The day before the drive, Vitalant held a press conference with a number of public officials to plea for donors to step up, stressing the fact that it is safe to give blood in the midst of the pandemic and that supplies were dangerously low. Over 200 Arizona blood drives have been canceled because donors scrubbed appointments, Vitalant said. “As our country faces the Coronavirus pandemic, we also face a national blood shortage as blood drives are canceled daily,” a Vitalant spokeswoman said. “It’s critical for healthy eligible Americans to give blood. Both the U.S. Surgeon General and FEMA have declared blood donation as an essential function that cannot be disrupted. Not having enough blood to meet basic patient needs will cause yet another public health crisis.” Healthy people can make an appointment at vitalant.org or 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Distance learning no easy trick for youngsters AFN NEWS STAFF

hen it comes to distance learning, schools may be facing the biggest challenge with their youngest students, according to the owner of a Chandler business that specializes in teaching young kids computer basics. And when Ken Chan talks basics, you can’t get any more basic than some of the challenges he faces. “The hardest task for children to learn is how to place their fingers in the correct positions on the keyboard,” said Chan. “Some pick this up fairly quickly while others take more time.” Chan and his sister Linda Chan co-own a technology curriculum provider called Future Kiddie, which introduces kids 3 s ~ Luxury Vinyl to 7 computer navigation, keyboarding Area Rug ~ Cochildren m o unte have a bit of a learning curve to master before they can be fully st technol- Ken Chan of Future Kiddie said young u and the principles of science, C ~ rtoorpcomputer. (Special to AFN) s r comortable with the basics of operating a laptop e w o h s ood ~ Laogy, ate ~ S and math in a fun atminengineering “My experience with first graders is mosphere at preschools throughout the schools confront in developing distance learning for youngsters while physical that they need to learn online instrucValley. classrooms are closed, Chan said, tions and not just watch videos – which Asked about the challenges that

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see LEARNING page 7

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

LEARNING from page 6

browser to surf for information.” Chan said the browser has built-in ad-blockers and is faster than Google Chrome. He also recommends that parents set up the search engine as “duckduckgo. com.” “This search engine is for privacy searching online and protects kids from getting into inappropriate sites like adult sites,” Chan said. Future Kiddie’s students range between 3 to 7 years old. Chan, who personally works with students in those schools that hire Future Kiddie, also stressed that parents need to recognize that “every child is different” when it comes to learning a computer and that it takes time for them to master the basics. “Students learn through the repetition of basic tasks and how engaged they are in the subject,” he said. “Some kids are able to master basic computer skills in a few months while others need more instruction and attention.” Future Kiddie’s classes begin with 10

to 15 minutes “circle time” to discuss the day’s lesson followed by 25-30 minutes of hands-on screen time/computer learning time. “Our curriculum is in alignment with early childhood education materials along with S.T.E.M (science, technology, engineering and math) principles and the teaching of keyboarding skills,” he explained. “With proper training, almost anyone can learn to teach. In fact, some of our teachers are parents who enrolled their child into our program in the past who later became part of our team. “Our classes are story-based to engage children and each week we teach a different topic/subject matter.” Future Kiddie isn’t providing in-home instruction because of concerns about virus spread. “We are in the process of exploring virtual learning options with programmers and web developers,” Chan said, suggesting parents who think their children might need some help mastering a computer can check futurekiddie.com or contact him at 480-331-3068 or FutureKiddie@FutureKiddie.com.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

SCHOOLS from page 1

20 year, following President Trump’s Sunday extension of social-distance guidelines through all of this month. The closure, which applies to all public, charter and private schools, all but officially eliminated senior proms and likely will eliminate commencement ceremonies – although Tempe Union spokesman Megan Sterling said, “We’re looking at creative, virtual ways to celebrate our graduating seniors.” Ducey last Friday formally resolved some concerns facing school districts by waiving the mandatory number of days for the school year but allowing non-certified staff, including hourly workers, to be paid for the full school year. He also had suspended statewide testing and any new grading for schools’ performance, continuing the grade they received last fall into the next school year.

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Baseball and other high school spring sports also were canceled on Monday for the rest of this school year. As Kyrene and Tempe Union School Districts ramped up distance learning for students to a higher level, some adults in Ahwatukee urged residents to start thinking of ways the community can celebrate the Class of 2020 – which may be paying the heaviest price of school closures amid efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. While the Kiwanis Club members reported they are still getting calls from people about the Ahwatukee Easter Parade – which was cancelled nearly a month ago – and some residents expressed concern about seeing people congregating on tennis courts and in parks in defiance of social-distancing guidelines, two local incidents reminded Ahwatukee residents that they are as much in the virus’ bullseye as any other Arizonan. Last month, the Ahwatukee Little

League said that a relative of one of its players who tested positive for COVID-19 had been at Mountain Vista Park March 3 to watch a game. Last week, the Best Buy store at 50th Street and Ray Road closed for two weeks after an employee tested positive for the virus. Although all Best Buy stores have been providing only curbside pickup for merchandise ordered online, the Ahwatukee store was closed for additional decontamination protocols and not open for order pickup. Meanwhile, plans started bubbling up on social media for addressing high school seniors’ loss of a major rite of passage in life – graduation. “Our hearts are breaking for our local Ahwatukee seniors with the announcement that school is canceled for the remainder of the year,” said Nicole Brusik Koester, urging residents to think of ways to salute seniors the week of May 17.

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She suggested painting rocks with the school colors of Mountain Pointe, Desert Vista and Horizon Honors; tying schoolcolor ribbons around the community and putting up signs. Postnets in Ahwatukee and Chandler began selling 18”x24” coroplast signs with high school logos and the words “Congratulations, Class of 2020.” Postnet owner Janine Moeller is selling the signs – with a metal stake – for $10 so they can be installed in front yards. High school seniors who are continuing their education also could begin turning to the National Association for College Admission Counseling’s website for updates on how individual colleges and universities are handling various matters involving next year’s freshman classes. For Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista students, teachers began providing regu-

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

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SCHOOLS from page 9

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Cabrillo Canyon Listed for

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Beautifully remodeled 2,574 sf 4 bedroom 2 bathroom single level home on over a 1/3 acre preserve lot! 2018 roof! 2016 HVAC! Sparkling pebble tec pool with grand rock water feature and built in slide. Kitchen remodeled in 2020 with quartz counter tops, trendy white Shaker cabinets, upgraded Frigidaire Gallery Series stainless steel appliances (with air fry range,) island / breakfast bar, walk - in pantry, and eat - in casual dining nook. Open kitchen - family room floor plan, 2020 interior paint, 2018 exterior paint, new 15x30 porcelain tile flooring and new carpet (carpet only in bedrooms and formal living room.) Master suite is enormous with double sinks, separate shower and Roman tub and large walk-in closet. Master bedroom has a separate single French door exit to the back patio. Both bathrooms remodeled (2020) with quartz vanity tops, upgraded rectangular sinks, brushed nickel faucets, lights and fixtures, dual flush extended length toilets, and tile surrounds in showers / tubs; custom glass door enclosure at the master shower. White Shaker cabinets in both bathrooms. All new lights, fixtures, ceiling fans and hardware throughout.. Five car slab parking in front and extra slab parking behind the double gate on the south side. Double gates on both the south and north sides of home.

Tapestry Canyon

Listed for $2,250,000

Gorgeous 1+ acre property with panoramic mountain views and city lights views! 7,644 sf main house plus a detached guest house and flex room (1940 sf.) Kitchen boasts distressed black finish Alder cabinetry, Cantera stone hood, large island, pantry, Viking double ovens, six gas burner cook top, warming drawer, Thermador refrigerator, two Kitchen Aid dishwashers and a stock pot faucet above cooktop. Open kitchen family room floor plan. All bedrooms are ensuite and have their own patios with mountain views. Negative edge, heated salt water pool. Multiple covered patios. 20’ x 20’ observation deck. Lower level bonus room with grand rock mountain water feature! Bonus room has large wet bar and full - wall pocket doors that open to a large covered patio area. Detached guest house and enormous flex room. Flex room could function as office space, media room, home gym, game room; many options! Five car garage! One garage bay is tandem.. Great for car collectors!

Sun Groves Listed for

$375,000

Gorgeous 2,392 sf 5 bedroom, 3 full bathroom home. Backs to a greenbelt! Open kitchen family room ﬂoor plan. Kitchen has a center island, granite counter tops, custom cabinets, and black appliances. Family room has built in media center. Soaring vaulted ceilings! Large master suite has neutral color upgraded carpet, ceiling fan and large picture windows. Master bathroom has double sinks, separate soaking tub and walk in shower, and large walk in closet. The resort like back yard has an extended covered back patio with waterfall feature. Three car garage and RV Gate. Walking distance to Navarrete Elementary.

San Tan Valley Land Listed for

$195,000

Great development opportunity or horse property! 8.35 acre parcel in San Tan Valley. Spectacular panoramic mountain views! No HOA. Property can be split (if desired) into ﬁve 1.67 acre parcels. Miles of state trust land all around. Owner is willing to facilitate a minor land division. In the country but has nearby emergency services, hospital, schools, and shopping.

Circle Mountain Land 2 Parcels Listed for

$290,000 each

Two parcels; 4.7 acres each. Residential Acreage abutting Pyramid Peak and state trust land. Elevated property, away from ﬂood zones. Build a grand estate or subdivide a small community! Beautiful Northeastern views of New River Mesa and surrounding mountains. Zoning requires at least 1 acre per home. 15-20 minutes from Anthem and Cave Creek and still only 45 minutes from Sky Harbor 9.4 acres total available (10 acres minus 40 foot road easement along Northern edge)

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lar daily instruction as well as matieral for special academic programs like Advanced Placement and dual enrollment, the district said. Until this week, both Kyrene and Tempe Union were providing “enrichment classes” – online ungraded programs with no assignments required that offered content that didn’t necessarily reflect their classroom curricula. But as of this week, both districts were ramping up more formalized instruction as teachers also began setting hours when parents or students could call with any questions that were not answered in lengthy postings on their websites and through other online channels. “Families are being asked to adapt everyday right now, more than ever imaginable,” Tempe Union Assistant Superintendent Kim Hilgers said in an online message. “We as educators are also being asked to adapt and we are incredibly appreciative of your support as we collaborate to ensure a different type of learning for your student(s) in the coming weeks.” Kyrene broke its distant learning rollout into three phases, with the second starting this week. While continuing a no-graded-assignments protocol, the district posted “instructional resources” that were more aligned with each grade level and teachers set hours when parents can call Monday through Thursday for guidance and answers. The third phases will start April 13 and will “involve a more formalized/structured framework, with students receiving credit for work submitted,” Kyrene spokeswoman Erin Helm said. Helm also said the district is preparing to deliver hard copies of assignments and other learning materials to households without internet service. “While other districts are offering families the option of picking up paper copies

of materials in person, to my knowledge, no other district is offering this door-todoor service,” she added. Both Tempe Union and Kyrene also are continuing their breakfast-lunch distribution Monday through Friday for anyone under 18, though Tempe Union is requiring that students appear at Mountain Pointe or the three Tempe campuses that are distribution sites to pick up the meals. While districts are focusing on completing students’ education for the current school year, most other aspects of K-12 campus life have been shattered in COVID-19’s wake. PTOs canceled spring carnivals and other events that raised money for campus projects and also bolstered schools’ sense of community. Some teachers scrambled to complete the preparation of yearbooks and plug gaps created by photos from traditional springtime activities such as sports, musicals and plays. School officials and others also made sure social-emotional help is available for students who are becoming stressed over their separation from classmates and the normal routines of school. Tempe Union posted a variety of tips, contact numbers and other resources for parents and students alike, noting “it is totally normal and understandable for us all to be feeling more unsettled and stressed than usual at this time.” The Center for Mindfulness, Compassion and Resilience at Arizona State University launched an online mindfulness initiative titled “Caring and Connection in the Time of COVID-19.” Led by Teri Pipe, ASU’s chief well-being officer and the founding director of the center, “the initiative seeks to bring people together in an online setting to connect, reflect and recharge,” the university said in a release. That information – for parents as well as students – is at mindfulnesscenter.asu.edu/caring-connection.

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

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Social distancing puts rabbis, pastors in bind BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

ith Christians preparing for the most solemn week on their liturgical calendar and Jews marking one of their holiest days next week as well, the coronavirus pandemic is posing nearly unprecedented challenges for religious leaders. Social distancing has forced the cancelation of services and many religious leaders have ramped up weekly and even daily messages on their websites and many are conducting weekly services online as well. But even as they tend to their congregations, many leaders also share the economic hardships of their members since donations are drying up. Bishop Deborah Hutterer of Ahwatukee has been on the front lines of all those challenges. As the leader of the Grand Canyon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, she oversees 89 congregations serving 44,000 members spread across Arizona, southern Nevada and St. George, Utah, and also has been maintaining contact with 64 other bishops across the country. Unable to visit those pastors and congregations, she has been working from her office and restricting her travel to a couple of trips to the store and walks alone in her neighborhood. “This has been a crazy time, isn’t it?” she mused. It’s also been a trying time. On March 14, as school districts across Arizona were announcing their campus shutdowns, Hutterer was advising the pastors in her synod to follow social distancing guidelines and cancel Sunday services indefinitely. “I just urged people to suspend services and to my knowledge, there were some that did worship on that Sunday, March 15. But to my knowledge right now, I don’t think we have any congregations that are worshiping in person,” said Hutterer, who, like other bishops in her church, can’t issue orders to pastors. “I only get to urge them,” she added. After a conference call with 56 other bishops, she learned that virtually all have suspended services – and many were

Lutheran Bishop Deborah Hutterer, an Ahwatukee resident, said the virus has posed numerous challenges for pastors both professionally and personally. (AFN file photo)

nervous that President Trump early last week was saying he wanted to see packed churches on Easter. That wish has since been discarded as Trump extended social distancing guidelines through April 30. Indeed, Hutterer said she was writing pastors and “strongly urging that all inperson worship be suspended until early May and maybe longer.” Rabbi Susan Schanerman of Ahwatukee also has cancelled services for Congregation NefeshSoul, which meets in Chandler. “We have cancelled our in-person congregational seder,” she said, adding she may have a virtual seder on YouTube, where she also is presenting Shabbat services on the NefeshSoulAZ channel. “We have been including online resources for Passover on my weekly newsletter and hope that our congregants find a safe way to observe the festival,” Schanerman said. “Passover is one of the most celebrated of the Jewish holidays because it is so family- and community-oriented, so this year will be especially difficult for Jews all over the world.” Hutterer said pastors also are adjusting to performing their duties in a different way. “Most of them have figured out how to use their phone at the very least and put something online.” She said. “We have some pastors who are doing daily de-

votionals. It’s just as simple as reading scripture and praying. But I am surprised by the creativity and the adaptability of our pastors. They’ve had to do a quick learning, master a sharp learning curve and they’ve done that.” Her home church, Mountain View Lutheran is an example of adaptability, although Pastor Glenn Zorb said the pain of closing facilities reverberated though every facet of the church’s life with cancelations of not only services but various organizations’ meetings such as Fiancial Peace University. “The only exception we made was that we allowed the leaders of our various 12 Step programs to make the call that they felt was best for their group because most people in those groups will have some of the greatest challenges when all this new stress is laid upon them,” Zorb said, adding that those meetings on in the church courtyard. At least some of the churches in Hutterer’s synod face the same challenges that school districts confront: Not everyone has internet service or knows how to operate a digital device. “We know that there are some who don’t have the technology,” Hutterer said. “They don’t know how to get into Facebook. We have a number of people who still have flip phones.”

With Holy Week beginning next week and commemorating Jesus’ death and resurrection, Hutterer said she’s working with pastors to explore ways “they could send something to people who are at home.” “Many of our congregations are just doing things like phone tree to make sure they’re in touch with people, especially when they know that someone is living alone,” she added. Hutterer said she and her pastors are also shoring up congregants’ spirits as Holy Week draws near. “Many people look forward to Holy Week,” she explained, “but what we’ve been telling them is that as a church, as a Lutheran church, we’ve always said that every Sunday is a little Easter.” “And as the church, we also have seven weeks of Easter – it goes all the way to Pentecost. And so, we’re encouraging people to remember that right now although there are some anxieties and some loss and feelings about this, that the churches will be full, but it’s just not our building. And the resurrection will be celebrated no matter where we are.” But the ban on large gatherings hasn’t canceled out special Holy Week observances altogether. “We have a virtual Stations of the Cross,” Hutterer said, referring to a traditional Christian observance of the Crucifixion. The church has also provided households with information on how families can observe other Holy Week liturgies. Added Zorb: “Holy week services and Easter will be a challenge, but we will offer Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter morning services on-line at our website (mvlutheran.org) and if the current CDC rules remain in place through Easter, we will offer, “Drive-in” worship in our parking lot. You drive in, stay in your car, tune your radio to a low power FM signal in our parking lot, keep your windows closed or cracked open, park in every other spot facing west...and we will lead worship from a stage area we have set up with the leaders at least 6 feet apart from each other.” Meanwhile, the pastors face both professional and personal hardships in some cases.

see BISHOP page 22

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Most evictions for residents banned until mid-July BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

rizonans renters affected by COVID-19 will not be in danger of being put out on the street, at least through July 23. Gov. Doug Ducey last week barred police officers and constables from executing eviction orders. Aided by the $2-trillion federal bill passed last week, Arizona has set up programs to help businesses – many of whom have to pay rent today, April 1. Ducey also has persuaded banks and mortgage companies to suspend foreclosures for at least 60 days. Under Ducey’s rent order, relief will be available to anyone who is required to be quarantined based on a diagnosis of COVID-19 or has been ordered to self-quarantine by a licensed medical professional. Evictions also can be avoided if someone else living there is diagnosed with the virus or if they have some condition “that makes them more at risk for COVID-19 than the average person.’’

Evictions also are precluded for anyone who suffers a “substantial loss of income’’ linked to the virus, ranging from job loss, a cutback in wages, closure of their place of employment or an obligation to be absent from work to care for a home-bound school-age child. The relief is not automatic. Tenants must notify the property owner or landlord in writing and provide supporting documentation. And they also must acknowledge that they remain bound by the terms of the lease. Help is at housing. az.gov. The order does allow evictions if a judge determines that it is necessary “in the interest of justice’’ or if a tenant is being evicted for lying on a lease agreement about everything from pets and employment to a criminal conviction. Tenants who are still in arrears on July 23 would be subject to eviction. Press aide Patrick Ptak said there is the opportunity to “reevaluate’’ it before then. The move is getting a skeptical response from the Arizona Multihousing Association, made up of landlords of

multi-family units. “Obviously we want help for residents,’’ Courtney LeVinus, the organization’s president, told Capitol Media Services. “We recognize that our residents are struggling right now,’’ she continued. But LeVinus said it’s not as simple as telling landlords they can’t collect rents. “This needs to be a comprehensive solution,’’ she said. “We also need support for residential building owners or we’re simply shifting the burden from one group to another.” In a prepared statement, the governor defended the move. “Nobody should be forced out of their home because of COVID-19,’’ he said. “This order is about protecting public health and providing relief to families impacted by this virus, whether through sickness or economic hardship,’’ the governor continued. “This is the right thing to do to support Arizona families during their time of need and prevent the spread of COVID-19.’’ In a press release, aides to the governor cited the decision of the U.S. Department

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of Housing and Urban Development to suspend evictions for HUD-financed properties. And they said that the Federal Housing Finance Agency directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which purchases mortgages from lenders, to suspend foreclosure and evictions for at least 60 days. Ptak provided no answer to questions of how landlords, deprived of rental income, will pay their day-to-day expenses. But he said landlords may be able to get some financial help, at least from what they owe on the properties. “Our office is working with banks on options to provide mortgage relief,’’ he said in a prepared statement. “Many banks have taken action to do this already, such as Bank of America,’’ Ptak continued. “They are letting customers request to defer payments on mortgages and issuing a forbearance on foreclosures.’’ LeVinus said the association board last week put out an email “encouraging’’ landlords to work with residents on a case-by-case basis to deal with financial problems. LeVinus said that includes accepting partial payments, waiving late fees and set up payment plans. Justice courts in Maricopa County have delayed eviction hearings until at least early April. LeVinus said her organization has not studied whether the governor has the legal power to do what he did. Arizona Supreme Court spokesman Aaron Nash said that Ducey, as the state’s chief executive, has authority over executive branch employees. Nash said that includes constables. Actual eviction orders have to come from justices of the peace. And Nash said it is up to each of them to decide which eviction complaints they want to handle and how quickly they want to handle them. Renters aside, the governor’s office said the Arizona Department of Housing offers assistance to people struggling to make mortgage payments. The agency’s Save Our Home AZ program allows them to seek a reduction in the amount owed, mortgage subsidy assistance for those who are unemployed or underemployed, and assistance in eliminating second liens on homes.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Ducey precludes cities from determining shut-downs BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

ov. Doug Ducey’s order on “essential services’’ appears less designed to empower him to force people to stay home than to preclude Arizona cities from getting out in front of him on actions to slow the spread of COVID-19. When the governor announced he did not intend to issue stay-at-home orders “at this time’’ and said his order was a move to “provide clarity’’ so that “people in these situations can plan ahead.’’ But the actual verbiage of the order paints a far different picture, forbidding any county or municipality from making “any order, rule or regulation’’ that prohibits anyone from performing any function that he, his health department or his Division of Emergency Management designated as an “essential function’’ during the pandemic public health emergency. It says that any order by a local government restricting people from leaving their home during the emergency “shall be consistent with advice from the Arizona Department of Health Services” and must be “coordinated with the state prior to issuance.’’ It was officials from Tucson, Phoenix and Flagstaff that instituted the first bans on people gathering at bars and a prohibition on in-restaurant dining. It was only later, after insisting he would not do it, that Ducey followed suit with a similar order. The governor’s list of what he consid-

GOVENOR DOUG DUCEY

ers essential and off-limits to local restrictions ranges not just from traditional health and public services to payday lenders and pawnbrokers to golf courses and the sale of firearms and ammunition. The move drew an angry reaction from Rep. Isela Blanc, D-Tempe, who said: “I’m concerned that we have city mayors that are leading on this issue and being more responsible than the governor in dealing with this. “We are dealing with a worldwide pandemic that could be fatal, but the state isn’t willing to take necessary precautions to keep the health system from being overwhelmed.’’ In a letter Tuesday to the governor, the mayors Tucson, Flagstaff, Tolleson,

Essential services

CAPITOL MEDIA SERVICES

ere are the essential services that the governor declared would be exempt from shelter-in-place orders. Health care and public health operations, including distributors of personal protective equipment and biotechnology companies;

• • • • • • •

Human services operations, for the elderly, developmentally disabled, foster and adoption children and the homeless; Food production, utility operators, construction and internet providers; Government functions; Business operations, including grocery and medicine providers, outdoor recreation; Charitable and social services, including religious and secular nonprofits; Media organizations; Gas stations and transportation-related businesses;

Somerton and Winslow said his order is “too broad’’ in its definition of essential services that cities cannot shutter, specifically citing the inclusion of payday lenders and golf courses. Tucson Mayor Regina Romero told Capitol Media Services that Ducey’s order preempted local governments from closing parks. In his order, the governor said he was focused on areas that provide “opportunities for outdoor recreation with social distancing.’’ But Romero said it’s not that simple. “Cities are concerned about cleaning bathrooms, all the details that we have to think about in terms of logistics to keep it clean for our community,’’ she said. Ditto the playground equipment for children. Romero also said she could live within the governor’s directive if he removed certain items from his “essential list.’’ That includes personal hygiene. “Does this cover nail salons? Hair salons? Massage and spa services? Barber shops?’’ she asked. “That’s concerning because that has people less than one foot away from each other.’’ “I am trying to be cooperative and have good partnership with the governor’s office,’’ she said. “But, at the same time, I have to make the call along with my city manager, my city attorney, with scientific information we have in front of us,’’ she continued. “And I have to be able to make swift calls for the health and benefit of Tucson and Tucsonans.’’ Gubernatorial press aide Patrick Ptak

• • • • • • • • •

Financial institutions; Hardware and supply stores; Critical trades, including plumbers, electricians, cleaning, sanitation, HVAC and security staff; Mail, post, shipping and logistics; Education institutions; Laundry services; Restaurants for consumption off-premises; Supplies distributors that enable telework and work from home and those that supply essential businesses; Airlines, taxis, and ride-sharing;

defended the governor’s preemption. “This order is about protecting public health and preserving critical financial lifelines for many communities across the state,’’ he said. “It also ensures one uniform policy throughout Arizona so businesses and citizens can responsibly plan.’’ The governor’s bid to restrain cities has the support of Glenn Hamer, president of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “The Arizona economy right now is already in a deep recession, probably in a depression, as is the case with the economy in the 49 other states,’’ he told Capitol Media Services. “We want to keep the maximum amount of commerce open that we possibly can consistent with CDC and Arizona Department of Health guidelines,’’ Hamer said, adding: “It was very important for the governor to get out ahead of this proactively because there is a lot of concern among businesses of all kinds in this state whether or not they’re going to be allowed to continue to operate in this environment where things are evolving by the nanosecond.’’ Hamer said that the governor’s list probably should be thought of less as what services are essential and more as a list of businesses that can be safely operated without the spread of the disease. That, he said, is where something like golf courses fit in, enabling people to get out and “get their 10,000 steps’’ a day with minimal risk of contagion.

Home-based and care services; • • • • • •

Residential facilities and shelters; Professional services, including legal, real estate and accounting services; Day care centers for employees exempted though the order; Manufacturers, distribution and producers of supply chain-critical products; Hotels and motels; Funeral services.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

AG wants universities to disclose virus cases BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

ttorney General Mark Brnovich said says that state government and its universities should disclose where employees and students who came down with COVID-19 were working and living. In a formal legal opinion, Brnovich acknowledged that there are various laws governing both patient and student privacy. And he said that employers and schools may not release any information that identifies a specific student or medical history. But Brnovich also said there is a public interest in getting as much information out as possible. “Given the current health emergency, universities should apply the (legal) exceptions and disclose sufficient information related to positive COVID-19 cases so those potentially affected students, staff, visitors, etc., can self-monitor and potentially self-quarantine,’’ he wrote. “At a minimum, universities should disclose information identifying the campus attended by the infected student and

health records. Still, he said, there is a recognized exception if “the disclosure is in connection with a health or safety emergency.’’ Brnovich reads the law to even allow personally identifiable information to be disclosed to “appropriate parties ... if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect public health or safety of the student or other individual.’’ ASU spokesman Jay Thorne said his school’s policy is based on a different reading of the law. “Our position is we’re following public privacy laws, HIPPA laws, which prohibit disclosure of information such as that,’’ he said. What ASU has done instead, Thorne said, is “contact tracing.’’ “So, any students that were in contact will be informed as a result of that,’’ he said. Thorne said ASU’s advice to all staff and students is “to behave as if people around you are infected.’’ “So that means monitoring your symptoms,’’ he said. “And that means observing all social distancing protocols.’’ Thorne said Brnovich’s opinion has not been reviewed by school attorneys.

buildings or dorms frequented by the infected student during the incubation period and/or while exhibiting symptoms,’’ Brnovich continued. “Further, warning other students, parents of student, school staff, and others about potential contact with an affected student is appropriate when, as here, those person’s knowledge is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals.’’ The opinion followed a request by Rep. Mark Finchem, R-Oro Valley, who said some state agencies – specifically, Arizona State University – were not putting out information that might help people who might have had contact with someone who is infected protect themselves. “That’s not acceptable,’’ he said. Spokesman Chris Sigurdson said the University of Arizona discloses the number of cases on its web site but does not distinguish between students, faculty and staff. He said there are some situations where the university will inform students who live in a dorm where someone has been infected. But Sigurdson said that does not involve making that information public.

He said the university is following the advice of county health officials who say “it’s really on the individual to tell the people they were in contact with, to inform them.’’ Sigurdson said he believes the university is doing what Brnovich is recommending. Brnovich said employers cannot disclose information that would reveal an employee’s identity or confidential medical information. But Brnovich said there is a reason to do something. “The employer should take all necessary steps to ensure employees and other persons potentially affected are aware that an employee (or other person) who has been physically present in the office has tested positive for COVID-19,’’ he wrote. Brnovich said the confidentiality provisions of federal law do not preclude providing others with an infected employee’s “non-identifying information such as the infected employee’s assigned state agency or work location, so long as doing so would not reveal the identity of the employee.’’ Universities have specific prohibitions against disclosure of “education records,’’ which Brnovich said includes student

lar challenges, scrapping its signature fundraiser that they expect would have brought in $1.3 million, or 6 percent of its revenue. Monthly donations have also faltered at the Phoenix-based shelter, which focuses on taking in homeless, sick and injured animals. That makes it a challenge to operate services like rescues, a trauma hospital and intensive care units, said Bretta Nelson, a spokeswoman. “This is a very, very scary time because we rely on donations to keep operating,” Nelson said. “We are very concerned with what this could mean long-term for our pets and our people in our community.” At the Arizona Animal Welfare League, a no-kill shelter with two locations in the Valley, officials stopped taking appointment adoptions and will remain closed

Shelters are at maximum capacity in the wake of the virus spread and rescues are curbing or eliminating altogether hours for public visits. (Cronkite News)

Pandemic puts new strain on animal shelters

BY JESSICA MYERS Cronkite News

he spread of COVID-19 has “deeply affected” Arizona animal shelters, which are discontinuing some services, cutting hours and trying to juggle between taking animals in and adopting them out to stretch resources while protecting pets and people. Humane Society of Southern Arizona CEO Steve Farley said shelters are essential services and that his will continue to operate with all-hands-on-deck “throughout the whole thing, no matter how long it lasts.” “It doesn’t mean it’s easy,” he added. Farley said his group faces the loss of more than a half-million dollars after the coronavirus forced it to postpone its largest fundraising event, while other donations have shrunk. Officials at the Arizona Humane Society are facing simi-

see PETS page 17

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

PETS from page 16

for at least another week. Spokesman Michael Morefield said that cutback gives the remaining staff time to focus on caring for animals in the shelter. It will still accept returns of animals previously adopted from its shelters, but that has become “a balancing act,” he said. “We did receive a message from a family saying they have to return their dog that they adopted recently because they both lost their jobs and that is a concern,” said Morefield. Not all shelters are cutting back on adoptions – some have seen a spike during the coronavirus shutdown. HALO Animal Rescue in Phoenix has seen a 55 percent increase in dog adoptions compared to this week last year, “likely due to the community’s response to wanting to help with COVID-19,” said Heather Allen, shelter president/CEO. At the same time, it has seen a 68 percent drop in cat adoptions, which Allen said might be due to a late “kitten sea-

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son” this year. But she said people should think about adopting animals during this time. Her shelter temporarily waived adoption fees in order to move as many pets into new homes, before taking an adoption hiatus for at least a week. “This is to lessen the volume of staff needed in the building and public/social interaction,” Allen said. “We are taking the recommendations by the state and federal officials very seriously in order to best protect our staff, volunteers and the public. To do this, we need to limit the volume of people and the duration of time spent interacting. “This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” she added. Shelters got some support last week when Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Phoenix, and Rep. David Schweikert, R-Fountain Hills, called on Arizonans to, in Schweikert’s words, “put a critter in your life.” Schweikert, who was in contact with shelters in recent months while looking for a coonhound puppy, said some larger

shelters in Maricopa County “don’t have people coming in the door to adopt right now” and could become overcrowded. Morefield said many Valley shelters are still open for adoption and “they need your support.” “The more animals they can place into homes, the better they can use the resources they have available to care for the animals they have during a difficult time,” he said. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona is trying to limit its animal intake and encourage people to hold on to their animals for now. While it has suspended services like its spay and neuter clinic and moved to appointment-only adoptions, Farley said the shelter is not planning on stopping adoption services any time soon. Staff and volunteers have adopted strict social distancing standards and have begun walking dogs on 6-foot leashes. Those interested in fostering or adopting can view all the shelter’s animals online, so they can “meet your new best friend” while social distancing, he said.

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

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

SHOOTING from page 1

ers, including a 4-year-old boy, had been wounded or injured by HSI agent shootings, which often occurred in parking lots outside strip malls or restaurants. All but three of the victims were black, Hispanic or Native American. One suspect in California was shot in the back and an innocent man there was mistakenly shot at after dropping off a child at school. Another man in Chicago, who was not a suspect, was wounded in his home, the Howard Center found. HSI was created in 2010 and is the main investigative unit of the Department of Homeland Security, the parent agency of ICE. Its more than 7,000 agents have broad legal authority to investigate an array of cross-border crimes, from child pornography and human smuggling to art theft and financial crimes. Yet its operations are largely overshadowed by the department’s detention units and immigration roundups. Federal shooting incidents have escaped the kind of scrutiny faced by state and local law enforcement officers involved in shootings. Experts say that’s no accident: Federal agencies have hoarded their shooting data, making it nearly impossible for independent analyses of their policies and practices. “A lot of (local police) departments are transparent,” said Geoffrey Alpert, a criminal justice expert who has studied highrisk police activities for more than three decades. “The federal government chooses not to be.” What little is known about HSI operations comes largely from Department of Homeland Security inspector-general reports, which have for following an outdated use of force policy from 2004. Auditors have also faulted Homeland Security for not doing enough to minimize the risk of improper use of force. The reports have also noted problems with training, challenges that were exacerbated in 2017 after Homeland Security hired 15,000 new agents and officers – 10,000 alone for ICE. In every shooting examined by the Howard Center, HSI agents said they fired in self-defense. Internal investigations, if they occur, are not made public. No agent has been charged in any of the shootings, though one related civil rights lawsuit was settled out of court. Two other federal

important job. But they must be held to account.”

The chase

This was the scene on 48th Street south of Elliot Road on April 11 last year after federal agents got into a shootout with a suspected human trafficker. (Cronkite News)

lawsuits are pending. Common themes include HSI agents calling 911 for help after a shooting, refusing to answer questions at the scene, leaving without conducting walk-throughs with local police and giving statements only days later with their lawyers present. Officials from ICE and HSI refused repeated requests from Howard Center reporters for interviews or to answer written questions. The Phoenix Police Department released records on the Ahwatukee shooting, including 911 calls, body cam videos, agent and suspect interviews and thousands of crime scene photos. However, one piece of evidence that was released – recorded sounds of the shootout picked up by a nearby home security

system – was not analyzed by police. A review of that recording, conducted for the Howard Center by two national ballistics experts, found that handguns like those used by HSI agents were the first to fire, contradicting the official narrative that the “bad guy” shot first. Phoenix police officials would not publicly discuss their investigation, although privately some officers were critical of HSI’s tactics. “It’s a major concern, the accountability of people who have the power to deprive us of life and liberty,” said George Kirkham, criminology professor-emeritus at Florida State University who has consulted on more than 1,500 law enforcement cases. “It’s an honorable profession, and the people who do it do a tough and

The backyard wall of one Ahwatukee home was badly damaged when a federal agent lost control of his pickup and slammed into it. (AFN file photo)

Frank Guy was pruning bushes when he heard the siren. Climbing up on his garden bench to peer over the retaining wall, he saw unmarked trucks trailing an SUV. A car chase, he recalled thinking. “As soon as I got down, I heard this huge crash,” Guy said. “It was like a mini atom bomb. It looked like a mushroom cloud of trees and branches and leaves and dust and concrete.” And then the shooting started. His wife pleaded for him to come inside to escape the gunfire. His adult stepdaughter dropped to the floor and dialed 911. “There’s gunfire, there’s an accident,” a breathless Michelle McMaster told the emergency operator. “How many shots?” the dispatcher inquired. “How many shots? Hundreds!” McMaster shouted. The chaos that unfolded about 400 feet away was not part of the plan. Since late March, Homeland Security Investigations agents had been tracking Warren Jose, a suspect in an alleged immigrant smuggling operation out of Sells, the capital of the Tohono O’odham Nation along the Arizona-Mexico border. Agent Chad Lakosky obtained an arrest warrant on April 9 and began planning Jose’s capture. Because Jose had an arrest record that included allegations of human smuggling, aggravated assault and illegal weapons possession, Lakosky said he called for help from HSI’s Special Response Team, a SWAT unit. Response team agents said they were warned that Jose had a history of not complying with law enforcement and would likely be armed. Agents planned to arrest Jose on April 11 in the parking lot of a hotel along I-10 south of Phoenix, where his Chevrolet Trailblazer had been spotted the day before. But instead of staying the night, Jose had returned to the border after getting a call about two migrants in Sells needing transport to Phoenix. By this point, Jose later told Phoenix police, he was too tired to drive alone and called some friends from the reservation for help. Valentina Valenzuela and Theresa Medina Thomas had been out late par-

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

SHOOTING from page 18

tying in Sells and agreed to join Jose on the drive back to Phoenix. Around 4 a.m., the group picked up the two migrants. One of them, Maria Martinez-Luna, 17, later told police that Jose had an AK-47 lying on the front-seat console but had told her not to be afraid because the gun wasn’t for her. As they drove north, Jose and the two women smoked cigarettes and drugs and passed around a bottle of Bacardi rum, music blaring on the radio. “We were jamming out,” Jose would later say. Drug paraphernalia was found scattered about the SUV after the shooting. A license plate reader picked up the Trailblazer as it approached I-10, alerting the HSI agents that their suspect was nearing. Midway through the trip, Medina Thomas took over the wheel so Jose could sleep, he told police. Agents had expected Jose to drive back to the hotel where he’d been spotted the day before. But instead of turning east after exiting the interstate, Medina Thomas turned west and headed toward Ahwatukee. As agents scrambled to catch up, team leader Richard Mortensen devised a plan. Agents believed the Trailblazer had only two occupants, though they later acknowledged they couldn’t see through the vehicle’s dark tinted windows. They were convinced the occupants knew they were being followed. In statements to police, the HSI agents said the suspect vehicle had made erratic lane changes indicative of “counter surveillance” measures and a brief stop in a parking lot, during which they thought they saw a silhouette turn to look at them. Inside the Trailblazer, tensions were rising. Jose said he awoke to Medina Thomas and Valenzuela talking about a truck that was following them. Medina Thomas told Jose she thought it was “a narc.” A groggy Jose looked at the unmarked truck and replied, “Nah, that’s not a cop. You would know if it’s a cop.” If anything, Jose initially thought, it might be a rival smuggler. He told police it’s common for other smugglers to steal migrants as they were being transported and keep the payoff for themselves. Jose told the women not to worry and went back to sleep. Meanwhile, Mortensen instructed his fellow agents to prepare for a “pinch” ma-

Police put yellow signs near each bullet casing at the shootout scene as they examined what went wrong. (Cronkite News)

neuver. The three F-150s would speed up to surround the Trailblazer, then force it to stop. Agents twice tried but failed to execute the maneuver as the Trailblazer and pickups headed north on 48th Street, getting blocked first by another vehicle and then by a construction zone. Finally, Mortensen decided, “there’s not a lot of civilian vehicles around, let’s conduct the pinch while moving,” an HSI agent later told police. With unmarked HSI trucks in front of and behind the suspects, Mortensen pulled his blue F-150 to the outside lane next to the Trailblazer. Agents were instructed to activate their lights and sirens, although only the truck behind the Trailblazer did, the police report said. As the truck in front slowed, the Trailblazer swerved several times into Mortensen’s truck, agents said, causing him to lose control of the pickup, which plowed through the residential block wall. The Trailblazer then hit the street curb and spun around before coming to rest facing the wrong way. Inside the vehicle, chaos erupted and someone yelled, “Police!” HSI agent Marcus Camacho was now facing the Trailblazer, and he said he rammed his truck into it to prevent the suspects from fleeing. The military veteran said he then began “taking rounds” from what sounded like an AK-47 and noticed his shoulder was bleeding. He jumped out of his truck, crouched behind the open driv-

er’s door and began firing his Glock 19 pistol at the Trailblazer. By that point, HSI agent Jeff Hemphill had pulled alongside Camacho, also facing the suspects’ vehicle. As he was getting out, he said he heard “rounds go through my windshield.” Hemphill dropped to the ground and radioed “Shots fired.” After his truck crashed through the garden wall, Mortensen said he “immediately opened” his door, saw the Trailblazer bumper-to-bumper with an HSI truck and heard gunfire. He ran toward the scene and took cover behind a tree across from the SUV’s driver door, he said. “It has dark tinted windows, hard to see in, but I can, through the windshield, I can see the silhouette of a rifle,” Mortensen told police five days later. “The rifle appeared to look like an AK-47, and I could see the rifle coming back and forth as if someone was shooting it.” “I knew they were shooting the rifle, and the direction it was pointed was at the direction of the officers that were there on scene,” Mortensen said. The agent said he opened fire on the driver of the Trailblazer with his Sig Sauer .40-caliber semiautomatic pistol and emptied at least three magazines before ceasing fire. Bryan Altieri, a passenger in Mortensen’s truck, struggled to get out of the crashed truck because his door was partly blocked by the downed tree. But once out, he said, he grabbed his M4 rifle and ran toward the shooting.

“There was lots, a lot of gunfire going on at that point,” Altieri told police. “The vehicle was extremely, extremely difficult to see inside.” Altieri said the Trailblazer’s doors were closed and that bullets appeared to be coming from inside, closer to the passenger’s side of the windshield. Looking through the optic of his rifle, Altieri thought he saw “the right arm of the driver extended out at an angle towards the passenger side windshield.” He fired two to three rounds at the driver, he said. “I’d also like to note that at this point I actually thought the driver was still Jose,” Altieri said. More than 100 rounds were fired in just over 30 seconds, about 80 percent of them from agents’ guns, Phoenix Police found. Inside the Trailblazer, Medina Thomas slumped dead in the driver’s seat from three bullets to the head and four to her neck and shoulder, the Medical Examiner said. Jose, in the front passenger seat, was gravely wounded by several bullets, including one to his head. The backseat occupants – Valenzuela and the two migrants – huddled on the floorboard, injured to varying degrees. One of the paramedics examining Medina Thomas’ body noted she had been shot through the eye, adding, “That’s a kill shot.” Another paramedic muttered “savage.” Curious residents ventured out for a look after the gunfire subsided and police sirens started sounding through the neighborhood. By that point, HSI agents had pulled Jose’s limp body from the Trailblazer and rolled him onto the street, face up. An AK47 was on the ground nearby, police body cam video showed. “The scene looked like chaos because there was a body laying in the street,” said Nick Dalton, who lives a few blocks from the scene. Dalton said he thought Jose was dead because at first no one was tending to him while HSI agents were being loaded into ambulances and driven away. The front end of the agent’s truck lay halfway in a backyard, surrounded by tree limbs and other debris. Several residents found bullets in their yards, on their roofs and even lodged in the side of one home. Many were rattled by the shooting and unwilling to speak

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

SHOOTING from page 19

about it, even months later. “Why would they do it here?” asked Dalton, who was troubled by the fact that he didn’t hear sirens before the shootout. “I would assume that they would try and do it somewhere a little bit safer.” Dalton said he’d never heard of HSI until after the shooting, when he Googled it. If someone in an unmarked vehicle had tried to pull him over, saying they were with HSI, he said, “I would tell them no, get the Phoenix police.” He added that it was “kind of scary” that relatively unknown federal agencies “have the right and the power to enforce the law with physical and lethal force.”

Debriefing

Four days after being shot in the head, Warren Jose sat in a Phoenix Police interrogation room. “Warren, why did you fire at them?” Det. Matthew Hamas asked. “When I heard the gunshots,” Jose said, “I may have, I may have just shot back.” Investigators later determined Jose had fired 24 rounds from a sawed-off AK-47. “Hamas pressed on: “There were a

CHAD CHADDERTON “The original Ahwatukee Realtor”

WARREN JOSE

bunch of witnesses and everybody saw you fire first. So, I’m trying to understand why.” “If anything, I had to be scared,” Jose offered. “You don’t remember who fired first?” Hamas asked later. “I don’t remember who fired first,” Jose replied. Understanding who shot first was a main goal of the Phoenix Police Depart-

ment’s investigation. HSI, in a federal criminal complaint filed the day after the shooting, said Jose “began opening fire on agents with an AK47-type assault rifle, striking multiple vehicles. Agents returned fire.” But, despite a months-long investigation, local police and prosecutors did not determine who shot first. Agents told Phoenix police that they feared for their lives because the Trailblazer had been used as a “weapon” to ram one of their trucks, sending it careening through a cement block wall. However, during the agents’ interviews with police five days later – with their lawyers present – none explicitly said Jose was the first to fire. And police didn’t ask. Mortensen said he heard gunfire coming from where an HSI truck crashed head-on into the Trailblazer. Agent Marcus Camacho, whose truck rammed the SUV, said he could not see inside the vehicle, but “as soon as we collide, I start taking rounds.” “I popped my door open, and I’m receiving rounds. Through the door and all around me, and I can see them exiting the SUV’s front windshield,” he said. Agent Jeff Hemphill, who pulled up

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alongside Camacho, said gunshots went through his windshield. Agent Bryan Altieri, who was injured in the crash of Mortensen’s truck, told police he heard gunshots. “Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang, bang,” he said. “And I hear someone yell ‘Shots fired.’” According to police interview transcripts, none of the other witnesses to the shooting could say with certainty who shot first. Valenzuela, the friend of the slain driver, was interviewed eight hours after the shooting. When Detective Hamas asked her who shot first, she said she “just assumed” it was Jose. But when pressed on whether she first heard shots from inside or outside the SUV, Valenzuela broke down. “It didn’t seem real, I didn’t know,” Valenzuela said. Valenzuela said she threw herself over the 17-year-old migrant sitting next to her in the backseat. That girl, Maria MartinezLuna, told police she didn’t see how the shooting started. She was interviewed by Hamas, with HSI agent Angel Hernandez translating to

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and from Spanish. “At any time did you see that he (Jose) grabbed the gun and began to use it?” Hernandez asked. “No,” Martinez-Luna responded. Hernandez translated her response as “She doesn’t know.” Phoenix police did not interview the other migrant in the Trailblazer, Genaro Jiménez-Sánchez, even though federal prosecutors detained him as a “material witness” in their case against Jose. In a court filing, Jose’s lawyer said JiménezSánchez ducked down after the collision with the HSI truck and “heard but did not see gunshots.” Although Phoenix police released their investigative report and most of the evidence collected, they deferred all questions to HSI, which declined to speak with reporters or take written questions. Among the crime-scene evidence released by police was a recording from a home security system half a mile from the shooting scene that captured the sounds of the vehicle chase, crash and gunfight. The Howard Center asked two nationally renowned audio forensics and ballistics experts to review the recording. Both said a handgun, as carried by the agents and not an AK-47 rifle was the first to fire. “With a high degree of scientific certainty, the first shot fired was a Sig Sauer .40 caliber shot,” said Steven Beck, an audio forensics and acoustics expert who worked as an FBI scientific consultant for 16 years. “That very first gunshot … it’s very prominent,” said Becks. Using a specialized software package built for analyzing audio, he was able to look at each gunshot’s sound waveform to determine the differences between them. “It’s quite loud and had all the characteristics that were consistent with the Sig Sauer,” Beck said. Mortensen was the only one involved in the shootout who carried a Sig Sauer, according to police. The audio recording also was reviewed by Rob Maher of Montana State University, who has authored more than a dozen reports and extensively researched gunshot acoustics. Using a different computer program than Beck, Maher distinguished each gunshot by looking at its varying amplitudes

The driver of the suspect’s bullet-riddled car was killed after she was struck several times. Experts surmise that federal agents fired the first shots, although the opccupants of this car gave conflicting accounts of that. (Cronkite News)

and frequencies. Maher reached a conclusion similar to Beck’s, stating his “subjective impression is that the first few shots are from a handgun … based on the short duration of the muzzle blast sound.” The County Attorney’s Office reviewed the police department’s investigation. In an August letter to the HSI special agent in charge for Phoenix, A. Scott Brown, the County Attorney’s Office criticized HSI agents for not following standard officer-involved shooting protocols, including refusing to give statements right away or conducting a walk-through of the scene. Prosecutors recommended “no criminal charges at this time” but noted that they had been forced to “rely upon secondary sources,” which limited “the degree to which involved agents can be fully and confidently cleared of any wrongdoing.” “There is insufficient evidence to rebut the involved agents’ subsequent statements of reasonable belief of imminent use of deadly physical force,” the letter said, concluding, “It is of great mutual benefit to retain the public’s confidence in reviewing incidents where loss of life occurs.”

Policing experts have said law enforcement officers should not put themselves in positions where vehicles can effectively become weapons and then use that fact as justification for responding with deadly force. Kirkham, the Florida criminologist who once worked as a police officer, called the actions of HSI agents leading up to the shooting “deadly” and “reckless.” Given that agents couldn’t see inside the Trailblazer and suspected its occupants might be armed and dangerous, or transporting hostages or innocents, he said they should have used extra caution. For example, they could have asked Phoenix police for help, such as blocking traffic up ahead or deploying stop strips to destroy the Trailblazer’s tires. “The tragedy is in a situation like this, when you start doing cops and robbers and doing like something out of a TV outtake, people get hurt, people get killed,” Kirkham said.

Fallout

Medina Thomas’ body sat in the Trailblazer in the middle of the street for near-

ly 12 hours before it was transported to the medical examiner’s office. Only later, after an autopsy and toxicology report, was it revealed that she had near-fatal levels of methamphetamine in her body, which could have explained much of her driving behavior. Dr. Richard Stripp, a toxicology professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice who analyzed the toxicology report, said, “The effect of methamphetamine would be related to increased risk-taking behavior, more aggressive behavior, potentially erratic driving.” Medina Thomas was on supervised probation for previous charges related to human smuggling. Her mother, Tina Juan, said Medina Thomas “went downhill” after the death of her paternal grandmother. Juan now is raising her eldest child’s 12-year-old daughter. She and members of her family plan to visit the site in Ahwatukee on the first anniversary of the shooting. “They took a big part of our family,” Juan

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

BISHOP from page 11

“The most frustrating change for me as a pastor is I cannot go and visit the people in our community that are in the most dire of circumstances,” Zorb said. “I am not allowed into the hospitals, the retirement centers, the nursing care facilities, the hospice facilities or even the homes of members that are sick. Most of them I can’t call on the phone or face time with because they don’t have either access or the ability to connect those ways,” he added. And with no services, some pastors also are anxious over whether congregants will remember they still need their donations to survive. Because pastors are considered selfemployed, they are not normally entitled to unemployment benefits, although the $2-trillion emergency aid bill Trump signed last week may provide some financial relief for them. Synagogues face the same challenges, Schanerman said. “Rabbis, cantors and other synagogue staff absolutely depend on the financial support of their congregations for their livelihoods,” she said. “We do not receive

funds from an umbrella organization. If donations begin to decline, this will put a serious financial strain on synagogues and staff. “We hope that our members continue to support us, knowing that they are often struggling financially themselves,” she added. Zorb said, “In most churches, the pastors do depend on the church for their livelihood. Mountain View is no different. As one wag put it: ‘Work for the Lord, the pay is low but the retirement plan is out of this world!” Zorb also noted that Christmas and Easter collections often are “make or break” periods for congregations because giving is especially generous - and more people fill up the pews. “The reality is that unlike some businesses, where you can delay or postpone new capital investments or the roll out of new lines of business, churches usually run very tight budgets with about 55-60 percent going for staffing in churches that worship 300 or more and about another 25-30 percent going for fixed costs such as mortgages, program expenses, utilities and insurance. The remaining 10 percent is given away for the poorest in the world

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if the church is healthy, “ he said. Sunday services aren’t the only casualties of social distancing for churches either. Funerals and weddings, along with regular weekly programs, also have largely diminished. “Right now, we are following the guidelines – it needs to be a gathering of 10 or less,” Hutterer said. “I know some pastors who’ve just postpone funerals. And if the death rates from coronavirus begin increasing in her synod as they have elsewhere in the country, “this could be a big challenge,” Hutterer said. Most couples put their wedding plans on hold, although she said, “I know one that has 100 guests invited and they already had to postpone the wedding once because her mother had died. “I talked with the pastor and we agreed that he could go ahead and do it as long as they had less than 10 people and they washed their hands. So, they cut their guests list down to 10.” But beyond services and the congregations’ well-being, Hutterer has concerns that cross all religious affiliations – and that are shared by people with no particular religious faith. “I don’t think people really have taken a

SHOOTING from page 21

said. “They took a big chunk of each of our hearts. We will never be the same. Our family is broken.” Warren Jose, meanwhile, remains in federal custody somewhere in Arizona; the U.S. Marshals Service would not say where, citing the safety of the inmate and agents guarding him. He faces 12 charges, mostly related to the April 11 shootout. Valentina Valenzuela is in custody, facing charges of transportation of illegal immigrants for profit. The two undocumented immigrants in the Trailblazer – Maria Martinez-Luna and Genaro Jiménez-Sánchez – were detained by the U.S. Marshals, according to court records. Martinez-Luna requested a work permit “and the Government is anticipating granting that request,” court records show. Jiménez-Sánchez, who had a bullet lodged in his chest from the shooting, is being held in federal custody until he can testify about what happened. Defense lawyers have sought copies of

lot of this seriously,” she said. “Life as we have known it, it’s changed,” she added. “But I don’t know that we’ve been able to embrace it.” And she and Schanerman both reminded people that social distancing doesn’t mean that pastors and rabbis have put their sense of responsibility on a shelf. “We continue to provide services and classes through online platforms,” Schanerman said. “We continue to provide pastoral care and support from a distance or in person. Our work does not cease when our physical doors close.” Zorb takes a view that is part theological and part historical. “I have reminded our congregation this isn’t the first pandemic the church has lived through,” Zorb said. “We made it through the Spanish Flu and even the Plague, so take a deep breath (far away from anyone else) and remember God is in charge and we remain in the palm of His hand.

GOT NEWS?

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@ timespublications.com HSI policies and procedures, contending in court filings “that the intervening acts of HSI agents, such as colliding with Mr. Jose’s vehicle and shooting Ms. MedinaThomas, were the actual causative acts of her death.” Prosecutors called that “a ‘fishing expedition’ with the hope of obtaining evidence to distract from the actions of the defendants in this case.” Experts say many local police departments have undergone reforms to improve police accountability and enhance community trust. Michael White, a professor of criminology and criminal justice and associate director of Arizona State University’s Center for Violence Prevention and Community Safety, said local policing reforms resulted from public awareness and pressure for change. “It’s been the persistence and the number of controversial shootings that has kind of just created this situation where many chiefs felt like they had no choice but to adopt these recommendations,” White said. “What it would take for that level of scrutiny to reach federal agencies? I’m not sure.”

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Closures keep Chandler sitter/nanny service busy BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

hile the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on many businesses across Arizona, one Chandler business is finding the demand for its services significantly increasing – especially as mandatory school closures have left parents scrambling to care for their kids. Trusting Connections Nanny Agency, which provides babysitters and places nannies in homes throughout Arizona, saw a big spike in demand almost as soon as schools were ordered closed earlier this month. “We are mostly seeing an unprecedented demand for back-up childcare services – families who still need to get to work or who are working from home and have kids home due to school closures,” said Trusting Connections co-owner and cofounder Rosalind Prather. “Parents are really needing an ‘extra set of hands’ to help with child care and businesses are also calling us looking for solutions for helping their employees still get to work.” Prather said she has seen an “immeasurable” and “unprecedented” demand that is different from spikes in demand she has seen before. “There are a lot of essential employees, like doctors and nurses and first responders, that need to get to work and can’t because their kids are home from school and they can’t find child care. Or, they are finding it impossible to juggle work at home with caring for kids and need extra help.” A nationally recognized entrepreneur who started Trusting Connections Nanny Agency at age 23, Prather and partner Caroline Westnitzer have grown the firm into several markets in Arizona and Texas. Trusting Connections’ babysitters and nannies are employees of the firm. “Our agency is rather unique in that

Geowts? N

Trusting Connections co-founder Rosalind Prather said school closures have kept her hopping. (Special to AFN)

our team consists of agency-employed and fully-screened nannies and sitters,” she explained. “We take care of everything – hiring, training, managing and paying the nannies and sitters so parents aren’t left with all the legal and financial responsibilities of employment. It’s one of the biggest differentiators between our agency and our competitors.” The only exceptions are nannies that join families on a long-term, full-time basis. They become employees of the families that use them. All the sitters and nannies undergo an extensive screening process that includes a background investigation with a local licensed private detective, a drug test, reference checks and in-person in-

terviews. In the shadow of the pandemic, that background check also follows guidelines issued by federal public health officials. Training also includes grounding employees in the fundamental hygiene precautions officials have espoused since the virus broke out abroad. Trusting Connections has placed hundreds of nannies in homes with family employers while its sitters and shortterm nannies serve thousands of families, churches and companies. But while the sitters are finding no shortage of work, longterm nannies have been impacted by the economic tsunami that has followed in the coronavirus’ wake,

Prather said. “Right now, many career nannies are being laid off as parents are feeling job insecurity or because their needs have changed and they are home more now,” she reported. “But what we are mostly seeing is an unprecedented demand for back-up childcare services by families who still need to get to work or who are working from home and have kids home due to school closures.” Because parents have varying needs, Prather’s company makes sitters available 24/7, 365 days a year and usually has an average 500 deployed in homes of its service markets during any given week. Besides a demand for its services,

Trusting Connections also has seen an increase in applications for sitter jobs. “Men and women, especially teachers who are now out of work for a temporary period of time are applying right now for work on our Flex Team, or sitter service,” Prather said. “It’s a great side job for them because we work around their availability, and they can work one-toone with families in their homes.” Families pay a flat rate of $24 an hour for sitter service regardless of the number of children in the household. Between the applications and requests for help, Prather and Wesnitzer have been far busier than they could anticipated. “We haven’t even had the chance to stop to breathe,” Prather said. “This has changed everything and while busy is usually a good, this kind of busy sometimes feels overwhelming. We feel a huge social responsibility to help get essential employees to work. “The nanny industry is needed now more than ever and it’s time for us to step up and provide services in a way that is as safe as possible.” She said she and Wesnitzer prepared as soon as they saw the virus cases increasing in this country. “We sat down and strategized as soon as things got crazy and laid out an expedited screening and hiring process that helps us get more people in the door faster without compromising quality or safety for our families,” she said. “Of course, our ability to meet the growing demand for care is dependent upon people applying for our positions.” “Our challenge will be to hire according to demand,” she added. “We don’t want to hire too much and leave our employees without the work hours they need and we also don’t want to hire too little and have to tell families we are booked when they request care. It’s a tightrope we are constantly walking. Information: trustingconnections. com, 480-770-4712

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

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

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Ahwatukee girl ‘rocks’ in a stressful time AFN NEWS STAFF

t’s a difficult time to be a kid these days, shutoff from classmates and friends in the dark shadow cast by the coronavirus and social distancing. But 10-year-old Kylie Sellinger isn’t the kind of girl to just sit around and mope or stare at a screen all day. Instead, the Ahwatukee girl is spreading kindness with hand-painted rocks – and in doing so has inadvertently given rise of a movement of kids across the community and the country who are following suit. The way her father, John Sellinger, explained, his kids were looking for a way to contribute to society in these dark times while he and his wife, stuck at home and yet trying to work, were also trying to engage with their kids. Rather than bemoan the cancellation of soccer season and the distance between her and her friends, on March 16 she asked her father if she could start painting

Kylie Sellinger, a 10-year-old fourth grade student at Sierra Elementary in Ahwatukee, has inspired people to paint rocks with uplifting words and phrases and placing them around neighborhoods to give people a little smile in these stressful times. (Special to AFN)

rocks since school closures had just been announced. Kylie explained how she wanted “to

leave them around the community to try to help brighten someone’s day in the midst of all the chaos she was experienc-

ing in her daily life,” her father explained. She placed her first rock on a community bench not far from her home and as she walked away with her family, “noticed a couple taking a picture of the rock she placed,” Sellinger said. “That ignited a spark of joy for her,” he recalled. “They appreciated her effort enough to stop, enjoy it and take a photo.” “As we continued discussing we saw an opportunity to get the community involved and spread a little joy throughout Ahwatukee,” he continued. So, she gathered some acrylic paint pens, found some small rocks in the backyard and started painting them, adding inspirational phrases “Show your flow,” “You are loved” or simple words like “Faith. On the second day, she raided her grandparents’ front yard supply of river rock and lately have just been finding them along the trails she and her family walk,

see ROCKS page 26

Cerritos Elementary’s Running Club goes virtual AFN NEWS STAFF

yrene schools may be closed but that hasn’t stopped a group of Cerritos Elementary kids from maintaining their participation in the school’s running club. They are part of a virtual running club – eager to learn small plastic feet that can be strung into a necklace that’s topped off with a much bigger yellow plastic foot to show they’ve achieved “10-mile” status. The Cerritos Runners Club resumed last fall after a three-year absence. Students during recess on Tuesdays would run laps around the school field, earning a small plastic foot every four laps – the equivalent of a mile. “The weekly running club was hugely successful” said parent Sarah Woods,

whose fourthgrade son Iden concurred. “I enjoy running and looked forward to each week,” he said. “I like the fact that they gave me a foot for a necklace after running a mile.” So far, 348 stu- Cerritos students earn a foot for every mile. Among them, standing with Principal Amy Gingell are, from left, Zachary dents have partici- Duemler, Iden Woods and Joshua Alvarez. (Special to AFN) pated in the Cerritos Running Club this year and logged laps as they like dura total 1,658 miles with 66 each running ing recess. Each lap is kept track of in a 10. Iden just before spring break earned see RUNNERS “20 mile” status. page 29 Students can choose to run as many

COMMUNITY

APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Virus scrubs couple’s 50th anniversary bash AFN NEWS STAFF

arch 26 was supposed to be a big day for Arnold and Mary Robb. Their three children, who live out of state, were planning to visit them in their Ahwatukee home to celebrate the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary. The plans got canceled. “We are unable to have a big celebration with the coronavirus pandemic,” said Mary. “We had to cancel the visit.” But Mary Arnold are taking the disappointment in the same steadfast way the two have faced other challenges – with hope and optimism. “We still hope to get together sometime in the future,” she said. The couple met in their native home of Carmel, New York, when Mary was a high school senior and the slightly older Arnie was a frequent patron of the Country Fare Restaurant, where she worked part-time. She even slipped him her phone number on his receipt one time. But it wasn’t until she graduated and he had come home after finishing boot camp

ROCKS from page 26

keeping a watchful eye for smooth rocks that are easier to paint. Soon the whole family – which includes his wife, and Sydney, 18; Braeden, 16; Campbell, 12 – joined Kylie, Sellinger said. “It is a great family activity that involves creativity and engagement,” he added. And it’s great exercise, too. They often walk together distributing the rocks through the neighborhood. “We have been creating new rocks and walking neighborhoods and hiking local trails every day,” Sellinger said. “We have been in Lakewood, Club West, Equestrian, and many in between, and have been hiking on Bursera, Pyramid, War Paint, Desert Classic. We are trying to spread as much joy as we can throughout all of Ahwatukee.” That joy is also spreading, thanks in part to Sellinger’s skills as a social media and marketing expert who founded a company called Boomerang Marketing that also helped spread the joy. Since Boomerang works largely with providers from the event industry – such as wedding venues, photographers, caterers, bakers and the like – “the impact of CO-

“That’s all it took,” she said. “I was in love.” They enjoyed “two wonderful weeks of dating” before he shipped out for an 18-month stint in Frankfurt, Germany. The postal service not only saved their budding relationship from falling by the wayside but ended up the conduit for their five-decade adventure. “We corresponded by mail until he returned home in March 1970,” Mary said. “He proposed Mary and Arnie Robb of Ahwatukee celebrated their 50th anniversary without in a letter. He returned their three children, who couldn’t travel to Arizona because of virus concerns. home in early March (Special to AFN) 1970 and we were married on March 26, 1970.” in the Army that a spark developed. He was 21 and she, 19. “I remember having a break and I started They moved to Arizona in 1998 after he to talk to him and decided to sit next to him was offered a job with the U.S. Department at the restaurant counter,” she recalled. They talked and their first date was a of Energy Western Area Power Administration. Mary worked in banking and real drive-in movie.

Kylie Sellinger adds a variety of artistic touches to the rocks she collects and then leaves along walks and other places in Ahwatukee to cheer people up. (Special to AFN)

VID-19 has been massive,” Sellinger said, “So, business is a little slow at the moment.” But he’s put his talents and relatives to work on spreading Kylie’s idea. “We have a really large family and I have been fortunate enough to work in markets across the country where I have developed

friendships with a lot of people,” he said, explaining “Facebook allowed for some national outreach to our friend network and Kylie reached out to her local friends and cousins through MessengerKids. “We now have families painting together and delivering rocks throughout their

estate throughout the years. They settled immediately in Ahwatukee. “After checking out popular areas in the Phoenix and Scottsdale areas, Desert Vista High School was recommended to check out. Our son would be a sophomore in high school and our youngest daughter in fourth grade.” Since son Christopher settled into Desert Vista while their younger daughter was at Cerritos Elementary, the Robbs decided to build their home in Club West, where they lived until 2006, when they moved into the Foothills Reserve Sunrise community, “where we plan to remain.” While the pandemic kept them apart from their children, their daughter Tiffany penned a tribute to the Robbs, saying, “They exemplify a love that can conquer all: the hurdles, the seasons, the times, the good and the bad.” “Love is beautiful when you make it work,” Tiffany added. And what do they attribute their ability to make it work? Mary replied straightforwardly: “Trust, compromise and lots of love.”

neighborhoods.” He’s also used the family rock-painting as a teachable moment for his children. “We have also been using the entire experience to educate all of our kids on the power of social media and marketing,” Sellinger explained. “My kids all watch the page followers grow daily, the contributions coming from throughout Ahwatukee. We have also engaged communities in Michigan, Colorado, California, North Carolina that are taking to painting – art class for all of the kids that are being home schooled – and sharing their work in their communities.” The idea also has caught on in Ahwatukee, which has been home to the Sellinger family since 1998. “There are new posts every day from people sharing their creations,” he said. “Kids from the neighborhood, kids from Sierra Elementary, kids from the Ahwatukee Boys Lacrosse Team. Even the Desert Vista senior class president has been seen painting rocks.” All of which has made Kylie and her family pretty happy in this stressful time. As Sellinger remarked, “It has been a really rewarding experience.”

COMMUNITY

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Hospice of Valley volunteers help in many ways BY LIN SUE COONEY AFN Guest Writer

pril is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and Hospice of the Valley is honored to have more than 2,100 dedicated volunteers supporting our mission. COVID-19 may be temporarily suspending face-to-face visits with families as all of us practice safe social distancing – but many are staying in touch by telephone and FaceTime. Hopefully soon, they’ll be back to visiting and reading, running errands and offering companionship and emotional support. Our amazing volunteers bring kindness and companionship to people all over the Valley – in homes, assisted living facilities and our inpatient units. Family members tell us they’re a burst of sunshine, providing a shoulder to lean on and a little break from the challenges of daily caregiving. These selfless volunteers often drop everything to be there for a family in need.

Volunteer Jeff Riddle, left, and Mark Adinolfi have become friends as a result of Riddle’s visits, during which he prepares gourmet meals. (Special to AFN)

Sometimes, they bring along a pet therapy dog like little Callie, who brightens every day with her happy tail and soulful eyes.

“It just warms my heart,” said Callie’s owner, volunteer Holly Thorson of Gilbert. “Callie just seems to know the patients

need comfort and she gives it to them. It just gives me joy.” Watching Vicki Zanoni of Mesa cover the tiny pooch in kisses, it’s obvious how much these visits mean. “When Holly’s not looking, I’m gonna take her one day!” Vicki giggled. “I love this dog. She soothes my feelings. When I pet her, I feel good.” Volunteer Jeff Riddle became the hands for patient Mark Adinolfi, whose progressive disease advanced to the point that he could no longer prepare gourmet meals for his family. He not only enjoyed being in charge — telling Jeff just how thick to slice potatoes or how much Turkish pepper to add to the pork chops — he valued the friendship that grew between the Phoenix residents. “Jeff met me in a wheelchair,” Mark said. “He’s not like an old friend who maybe has a little sadness in their eyes when they see how I’ve changed. Jeff knows me exactly as I am now. … He’s a genuine new friend.”

see HOSPICE page 29

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HOSPICE from page 28

When volunteer Carolyn Westermann shows up to visit her patient, Lois Mongan, both women’s eyes light up. The Phoenix residents head to a secluded corner to enjoy a “tea party” together. Carolyn always brings warm tea in a thermos and a delicious dessert to share. But it’s not about the food — it’s about the conversation and laughter that nourishes their souls. A few months after her patient Brian Ferjak passed away, volunteer Betty Schecker remembers a lovely encounter with his wife Darlene. There were hugs, tears and lots of laughter as they reminisced about her husband of 15 years. “Caring for Brian was 24/7,” said Darlene, who was by his side from the time he was diagnosed with liver disease in April 2018 until his death nearly a year later at age 64. “There was no relief. Betty lifted that burden for a couple of hours and she put me at ease. I knew Brian was in good hands.” Not every volunteer is suited for patient care, but there are so many other opportunities available. In addition to pet therapy, there is music therapy, which brings such joy to dementia patients who still have long-term memory and can sing along to their favorite songs. Our Shabbat Blessings program brings Sabbath prayers to the bedsides of our patients in our inpatient homes and care facilities. Our tender 11th Hour Companion program provides a specially trained volunteer to vigil at the bedside of a patient during the last hours of life, giving peace

RUNNERS from page 26

folder and feet are given to students in their classroom. Though schools are closed, secondgrade teacher Eileen Byrne-Quinn and PTO development coordinator Janie Miller weren’t about to let the Runners Club get grounded. They notified parents that the Running Club has gone virtual, telling them in an email: “We would like to keep this wonderful

GOT NEWS?

of mind to family members. Volunteers with Saluting Our Veterans and Honoring First Responders pay tribute visits to veteran and law-enforcement patients at end of life. Our Speaker’s Bureau volunteers give educational talks about our no-cost community programs, such as Senior Placement, which helps families locate living arrangements for parents or spouses who can no longer manage on their own. They also educate groups and companies about Healthcare Decision Planning. We have 350 passionate volunteers working at our White Dove Thrift Shoppes, with locations in Mesa, Glendale, Phoenix and Scottsdale. The stores raise funds for Hospice of the Valley’s charity care programs. Volunteers also can stitch a beach towel into a bath poncho to preserve the dignity and modesty of patients during bathing. They can arrange and deliver bouquets of donated flowers to patients, answer phones, assist with special events, greet visitors or manage paperwork in our offices. Spanish speakers are needed for patient companionship and to provide grief support for children. Whatever volunteers do, they make a huge difference in the lives of our patients, families and staff. We treasure them as valuable members of our hospice teams and could not care for our community the way we do — without their dedication, commitment and compassion. To learn how to join our Hospice of the Valley volunteer family, visit hov.org/volunteer or call 602-636-6336. Lin Sue Cooney is director of community engagement at Hospice of the Valley. activity going during the school closure. It is very important to stay active and get some fresh air (while social distancing, of course!)” To participate, students use a “miles log sheet” to track their progress. To report their completed miles, a parent or guardian should sign the form and submit it to the PTO following the directions on the form. Feet earned will be delivered to each child’s teacher to pass out when students return to school.

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

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Chandler consultant’s game means business BY KEVIN REAGAN AFN Staff Writer

layers who pass “GO” may not collect $200 in Stephanie Angelo’s game, but they could learn some valuable lessons about the business world. The Chandler business consultant recently finished the prototype of a new board game she calls “Company Culture,” which aims to help businesses make their offices a better work environment for employees. With a board drawn to resemble the classic “Trivial Pursuit,” Angelo’s game has six players moving pawns around a circular course by drawing cards. Each card determines a player’s fate – if a bad business decision is being made, then the player moves a couple spaces back. One card may indicate the business has employees who don’t call in sick, obligating the player to move back a couple slots. Another card allows a player to advance several spots because their company fos-

Chandler business consultant Stephanie Angelo’s new game, “Company Culture,” is designed to help businesses create a friendlier and more productive work environment. (Special to AFN)

ters a strong sense of community. Each card is meant to be a learning opportunity, Angelo said, since they offer a variety of scenarios that demonstrate both good and bad work culture. Companies need innovative exercises like this game, she added, in order to stay relevant and productive. “If you don’t keep going forward,” Angelo added, “you’re going to start going backwards.”

Players can take on roles different from their regular business status. Each player rolls a dice and their number determines whether they will play as a salaried, exempt worker or an hourly, non-exempt worker. Angelo purposefully wanted luck to determine the roles each player was assigned. Managers and executives should have the chance to know what it’s like to navigate the workplace as a lower-level

employee, she said. “The game is meant to be played by all members of the organization,” Angelo added. Though most board games are designed to be competitive, Angelo said her game’s objective is not really about selecting a winner. It’s more intended to help a business make some discoveries about itself and make a plan for improvement. A board game can be a safe, non-judgmental space for players to share problems they may see in their workplace, Angelo said. It will hopefully trigger a discussion of issues that might not regularly come up during the workday and players can have fun seeing their colleagues struggle through the game’s pitfalls. “You can laugh at your CEO getting thrown in jail because you didn’t do it,” Angelo said. “The draw of the card did it.” Angelo worked in human resources for

see GAME page 31

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GAME from page 30

several years before starting her consulting business in Chandler. She’s helped clients from all over the Valley improve their work culture and hopes this new game will attract businesses looking to innovate itself. “You’re always going to need something new and fresh and innovative to do,” she said, “and something that always generates new ideas.” This isn’t the first game Angelo has designed to educate a specific audience. A few years ago, she created “Outrage,” a board game that explores all the complexities of domestic violence. Similar to Angelo’s workplace game, Outrage had players take on specific roles and draw cards that detail realistic scenarios. Games can be a great teaching tool, Angelo said, and allow for a chance to self-reflect in a low-stakes, jovial environment. After playing a round of “Company Cul-

ture,” Angelo will have players complete a debriefing session by answering questions that will ideally spark more discussion. “Things will come out playing the game that maybe your employees are afraid to tell you,” Angelo said. “Company Culture” is not publicly available to buy and can only be played through purchasing one of Angelo’s seminar packages. She’s already had test groups play some rounds of “Company Culture” and hopes some clients will soon be making reservations for a chance to play the game. Of course, the ongoing COVID-19 virus pandemic has put a halt to most business operations at the moment. But bookings can still be made for when workers return to the office. More information about “Company Culture” can be found at stephanieangelo.com.

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OPINION

Opinion 32

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

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We need to do better than Asia fighting coronavirus BY JOHN HUPPENTHAL AFN Guest Writer

fter eight weeks of crisis due to the exponential spread of Covid-19, China implemented a comprehensive strategy of social distancing, testing, quarantine, disinfection, and public wearing of masks. Now, China’s four most populous provinces, with a population of more than 390 million, have less than 1,000 active infections. By comparison, our four most populous states, with a combined population of 110 million, have over 31,000 active infections, and this number is increasing exponentially. There are three main types of masks: homemade, surgical, and N95 masks. Homemade masks provide a small fraction of protection for the wearer, surgical masks are used to prevent droplet transmission, while N-95 masks provide far greater security, protecting against both droplet and airborne transmission. While we originally believed the person-to-person transmission of COVID-19 to be respiratory droplets, there are new

Summer vacation doesn’t make sense in Arizona

As we hunker down amid our concerns and fears, a lighter and more compelling side of our plight comes into view. I am mesmerized by the scene unfolding before me. The hill at South Mountain Park is heavily dotted with people on a Tuesday afternoon! Having lived here 14 years, I have never seen anything like it. It fills my heart with joy and wonder. People experiencing life at its fullest. All these parents taking their children into nature. A cacophony of wonderful human noise sprinkled with the frequent joy of laughter from children. This dire time has bought an unexpected pause for us all to think about the important priorities in life. Spending time with the ones we love and doing it somewhere other than the confines of home.

studies appearing to be airborne as well. Data from Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea mimic the data in China. Despite being at the epicenter of this disease, these four countries are aggressively bringing the Covid-19 pandemic under control, and all their strategies, unlike ours, include masks for the general population. These four countries have well less than half the active infections of New York despite having 10 times the population. We need to learn from our Asian counterparts. Largely, our policies mirror Asia. We are testing, disinfecting, quarantining, and social distancing. However, each element of any policy contributes only partially to a total solution. For example, a meta-analysis (analysis of many studies) published in the Journal of Tropical Medicine estimated that handwashing reduces infection risk by only 16 percent. This number suggests that as much as 84 percent of Covid-19 infections are inhaled. To stop those 84 percent, the inhaled infections, a key component of Asia’s strategy is masking its entire population. A study, published February 20 in the Jour-

nal of Hospital Infection, likely informed China’s comprehensive policy. It compared masked and unmasked staff at a hospital in Wuhan. Staff who wore N95 masks had zero infections while unmasked staff had a 5 percent-per=month infection rate. The evidence clearly demonstrates that we cannot mitigate this virus without masking our public. Without proper masks, the disease overwhelmed Wuhan’s hospital systems, infecting over 3,000 healthcare workers. In response, 42,000 healthcare workers were brought into Wuhan to bolster their healthcare force. These healthcare workers, informed by the study, wore N95 masks and had a 0 infection rate. This incredible result of zero infections validates the previously published research in which N95 masked hospital staff experienced zero infections. The cavalry is not coming, the federal government has no plans to ensure that the public has a sufficient number of N95 masks to protect itself. FEMA, CDC, FDA, HHS and the Coronavirus Task Force recently enabled producers of N95 masks to release a large number of masks from inventory and ramp up production to approximately 600 million

per year by the end of the year from its current 300 million. This impossibly large number is not likely enough to supply the healthcare industry and is only a small fraction of the 3.5 billion per year needed to cover our entire population, according to Congressional testimony by Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services Raymond Kaldec. Arizona cannot only lead the way to protect the public, we can do a better job of controlling this pandemic than Asia. Asia’s public is protected with a mix of homemade, surgical and N95 masks, providing substantially less protection than 100% N95 masks. Arizona’s $360 billion economy is collapsing and its constituents are in need of protection. For want of a $4 mask, the kingdom is falling. Our citizens must be armed with masks. In a wartime economy, everyone produces what’s needed. Arizonans need masks and we need them now. How quickly can Arizona businesses gear up and produce the masks that are needed? It’s all-handson-deck. John Huppenthal is a former Arizona legislator and state Superintendent of Schools.

Nature is the catalyst of life. I am certain none of those children will ever forget that day. So, I ask, why on earth do children in Arizona have “summer” off from school? That may work in other states, but not here. We are depriving our children from the life-changing experiences of interactions with nature, because nature is too harsh here in the summer months. The break between school years here in Arizona should actually be March-April. This would be a time when children would play outside instead of playing on the video screen or on their social devices. It will be a time for socializing with other children during outdoor activities. It would usher in a whole new generation of children nurtured with the beauty of life and living with nature. Nature is essential for the mind and the

spirit. All children require this. Parents would truly benefit from the opportunities to have family activities outside. This march on the hill is family bonding at its best. -Gary LaVone

forts to share information about ongoing business operations with the public through social and digital media. These efforts include updates on the Chamber Facebook and Instagram pages and Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber website, ahwatukeechamber.com, where there is a list of restaurants that are available for pick-up and delivery service. The Chamber’s list of “Open for Take-Out” or “Curbside Pick-Up” Restaurants, available on our website, has phone numbers and service details for almost all Ahwatukee Area restaurants. The list will be updated by the Chamber staff who will be reaching out to area retail businesses for information about hours of operation, availability of delivery or pickups, and other important information to keep our com-

LETTERS

Chamber ready to help Ahwatukee businesses

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce remains dedicated to supporting the Ahwatukee businesses throughout the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, it is imperative that the business community comes together to provide resources and enforce strategies to protect our businesses and workers while continuing operations. Although the way we are working looks very different now, please know that the Chamber will still be working for our members. The Ahwatukee Chamber is ramping up ef-

see LETTERS page 33

OPINION

APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

LETTERS from page 32

munity educated. Retailers, services and restaurants may send information to info@ahwatukeechamber.com or tag @AhwatukeeChamberOfCommerce in Facebook posts to share their business updates. The leadership of our Ahwatukee community has never been more important than in times of crisis. We are all concerned with how to support our local businesses during this unsettling period. The Chamber is doing all it can to share accurate, timely and useful information to the largest audience possible. Additionally, the Chamber is asking the business community to share their ideas and updates to help us keep the information flow running smoothly. We are continually working to compile information and resources from various areas and publish them in real time to our membership.” Please don’t hesitate to contact the Chamber staff with questions and go to our website for Coronavirus/COVID-19 information, resources and assistance. You can email us at info@ahwatukeechamber.com for questions or support. We are only a step, click or call away with information and

backing to help your business through this period. Finally, the Chamber is asking you to be safe, kind, and empathetic during this tough time. -Andrew Hayes, Chamber Executive Director

President’s demeaning attitudes are ‘sad’

I am a retired junior high school Teacher. I saw all the different personality types in my 25 years of teaching. I saw these types in the teachers as well as the students. Sometimes out of frustration with the students, these teachers would demean the kids. Although some teachers felt justified in these statements, they were always counterproductive. A quality teacher always treated their students with respect and expected respect in return. The teachers who gave respect even when tested received respect. The teacher who dished out disrespect got it back tenfold. I see this same scenario played out every day in the news. Our President gives no respect to others but demands it. There was a speech President Trump made to the Boy Scouts. It was a great opportunity to give inspiring words to

our youth. Instead he was disrespectful to President Obama, he trashed Hillary Clinton, called our capitol a “cesspool,” and threatened to fire Secretary of Health and Human Services Tom Price. In front of a bunch of kids. Just like a teacher, our President should be a role model. In this case he was modeling very poor behavior. Bullying, name calling, threatening, general disrespect. These are all things we try to get our students to not do, but we cannot win that battle when our top role model refuses to show our kids the right way. As our president would tweet, “sad.” -Barry Smith

Ben Halloran wants to remain Kyrene constable

There probably are not many constables in the United States that know how to work around nuclear weapons and also have a career in law enforcement. Kyrene has had one such person as their constable since being appointed by the Maricopa Board of Supervisors in April 2019. His name is Ben Halloran and he wants to continue his career of serving others as the Kyrene constable after the November 2020 elections. A native and resident of Illinois, Constable

Halloran entered the Air Force when he was just 17 and worked in the United States and abroad in the nuclear weapons division. He also served for a time in the Air National Guard. After his military service, he began a career in law enforcement that included duties as a policeman, detective, forensics unit chief of staff and major case narcotics. After leaving law enforcement, Constable Halloran spent time as a securities and special investigator for an insurance company. Retiring to Arizona with his wife, Ines, in 2013, Halloran was drawn back into service when he was appointed to the position of Kyrene constable. Constable Halloran would like to continue in his current position because: “My background and experience has prepared me to do a solid job as a Constable. We all want to do something we are good at and I think I am the best fit for the Kyrene precinct. I enjoy working and appreciate the opportunity for this public service.” If the voters decide to elect Halloran in his own right in 2020, he would: “Continue to develop relationships with the other law enforcement agencies and greater professional training, such as some for this coronavirus, to help us all be better equipped.” -CJ Briggle

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

STAY... • LOCALLY UPDATED • PROPERLY INFORMED • SAFE At a time when the entire world is in an ever-changing state, and health concerns are paramount, you can continue to rely on the Ahwatukee Foothills News to keep you informed on how the COVID-19 virus is affecting your local community. We appreciate the trust placed in us as the news and voice of the community. Being good stewards of that trust means we are here for you, especially in difficult times.

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Mailboxes & More moves ahead with new owner BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

s small businesses everywhere struggle to find their footing in the face of the coronavirus and social distancing, Dean Babb is making good use of antibacterial wipes and disinfectants in his Mailboxes & More of Ahwatukee. It’s an especially tough time for the independent business owner, who moved with his wife to Ahwatukee from the Pacific Northwest in November after buying Mailboxes & More at 1334 E. Chandler Blvd. Mailboxes & More is an established business of more than 25 year’s tenure and was owned for 21 years by Yehia Hafez, who was well-respected in the Foothills. Though Babb had a couple months to start making the 1,200-square-foot store his own, recent events have had him revamp business protocols in order to keep his customers – and himself – as safe as possible. “Every day, I see my customers mak-

eryone else, I’m trying to be as vigilant as possible and hope those measures are having a positive effect or at the very least trying to prevent a negative effect.” Even in what we now consider “normal” times, Babb said he had Dean Babb is the new owner of Mailboxes & More in Ahwatukee and he’s losing no time customers who updating some of the store’s services. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer) preferred to frequent his busiing adjustments in their lives where they ness rather than go to the local post office hope to minimize their risk while still try- branch to mail letters and packages. Now, he sees an uptick in new customing to maintain their lives,” said Babb, 55. “I know in my shop I’ve been trying to ers as COVID-19 demands social distancwipe down equipment, counters, pens ing and crowd limits. “Normally, I would say our lines are ofand other items that are used frequently by either myself or the customers. Like ev- ten shorter and move faster than the post

office. And now, I imagine that helps to minimize potential risk of contact with the virus, but the reality is you can’t tell who may have the virus and what surfaces may be infected just by looking,” he admitted. “We offer several services, including postal services. I also suppose it’s possible that one-stop to take care of a few tasks should be better than multiple stops where you risk exposure every place you go.” “I look at it this way: In today’s reality it’s hard to find everything you need in one store since the stores are getting picked clean every day. Maybe you go to three stores trying to get everything. If each store has a few hundred people, I would think your risk of exposure is much greater that way,” he said. Another increase of business has come from those who now find themselves required to work from home, said Babb. “With things the way they are, currently people have been taking advantage of the

up in their new, places. home environNow, the pair ment.” has expanded He and Motheir business to riarty, who provide virtual holds a doctorevaluations of ate in physical the home offices therapy, use the of the burgeonvideo conferencing ranks of teleing app ZOOM commuters. “We thought to help people about how we build a workcould still help place at home folks during this that will be kind time of crisis,” to their body. said Rubino a Michael Rubino of Ahwatukee says devices are only one part First, they biomedical en- of the home office and his company, Ergologics, helps people evaluate the climake using those devices comfortable. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff gineer. “That’s Photographer) ent’s current dewhen we devices and workcided to start offering remote ergonomic station and then, Rubino explained: evaluations to help people set themselves “We’ll then talk to them about any dis-

comforts they’re experiencing, about proper ergonomic set-up and offer them some helpful tips to make them more comfortable. Then we’ll also send them a written report regarding any equipment or furniture that we’d recommend for purchase.” One of their goals is not only to make workspaces more comfortable and productive, but to minimize the risk of injury. “We look at the physical demands of the job to decrease the risks of injury and illness while enhancing productivity,” he said. And with workers viewing their athome workstations as a temporary stopgap, Rubino said his company’s evaluations take into consideration their client’s budgetary limits. “A good adjustable ergonomic chair

see MAIL page 37

Ergologics helps people work remotely in safety BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

s more people find working from home their new normal, so does the reality that slouched on a couch for hours on end with their laptop balanced on knees isn’t going to cut it. Even setting up at the dining room table or that old computer desk that for decades has gathered dust can have drawbacks as arms begin to ache and backaches begin. It soon becomes apparent though home can be a great place to work during this pandemic, it wasn’t designed for your job and may not add to your productivity, says Ahwatukee business owners Michael Rubino and Ronda Moriarty. Their company, Ergologics, combines 35 years of experience in ergonomics with more than 18,000 evaluations of work-

see ERGO page 37

BUSINESS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Coronavirus has a valuable retirement lesson BY DR. HAROLD WONG AFN Guest Writer

n March 18, the Dow-Jones stock market index had a steep drop, briefly pushing the 30-stock index below the level where it closed on Jan. 19, 2017, the day before President Trump took office. Due to the coronavirus shut-down of the US economy, the historic stock market meltdown has wiped out years of gains in a matter of weeks. After hitting a low of 18,591.93 at the March 23 close, there has been a substantial rebound but many have lost 20-35 percent or more of their retirement savings. The data on March 26 showed that a record 3.28 million Americans filed for unemployment benefits during the last week, compared to 281,000 the previous week. Here are the retirement planning lessons that might be learned by this unforeseen health and financial crisis: Your emergency savings should be at least 12-18 months’ living expenses held

in the bank or somewhere safe. This exceeds the normal six months goal espoused by financial planners. In contrast, many surveys over the last three years found that 30-40 percent of Americans don’t have $1,000 of emergency savings. If you are within 10 years of retirement or already retired, you can’t have most of your life savings in the stock market. Since the beginning of this century on January 1, 2000, there has been the 20002002 Dot-Com Crash and the 2008-2009 Financial Meltdown, where the stock market dropped by about 50 percent. The coronavirus panic occurred and within five weeks people could have lost 35 percent or more of their life savings. You are safer with at least two streams of income besides your primary job. It could be a side business where you net $20,000 per year and a private pension fund that generates the same. If you have $40,000 a year of steady income outside of your job, most can survive for the year. Your primary goal should be maximizing the amount of steady (safe and predictable) cash flow that you get in retire-

ment. One can maximize one’s Social Security Benefits; receive an 8-10 percent rate of cash flow from private pensions; or earn 7-9 percent from real estate lending or equipment leasing. Your amount of safe retirement cash flow is often more important than your rate of return on traditional Wall Street investments. Example: A nurse deposited $250,000 in a private pension fund at age 62 and will receive $25,000 of annual income when she turns age 70. In comparison, with the average 2 percent dividends from S&P 500 stocks over the last 20 years, she’d have to save $1,250,000 to get the same $25,000 of income. Yet, in a financial panic major companies often cut their dividends to save cash. She would have had to save an extra $1 million ($1,250,000 vs. $250,000) in order to get the same $25,000 income. How many people can save an extra $1 million? What has to change to achieve the above four steps? One has to substantially in-

crease one’s savings and safe retirement cash flow. The average U.S. savings rate is about 8 percent of after-tax income versus 37 percent in China. Suppose your family household income was $75,000. If you add a side business that nets $15,000, that allows you to save $5,000 of tax. And if you save $10,000 from your $75,000 of income, that’s a total $30,000 of annual savings. If you can earn an average 7 percent in 20 years, you’ll have an extra $1,315,955 if it’s in a tax-deferred retirement account. In low-cost Arizona, that’s financial freedom for most people. Free Emergency Consultation: Normally I have a monthly seminar, but due to coronavirus crowd restrictions, it’s not possible now. However, I will be happy to offer a free phone consultation for any reader. Please contact me at 480-706-0177 or harold_ wong@hotmail.com. Dr. Harold Wong earned his Ph.D. in economics at University of California/Berkeley and has appeared on over 400 TV/radio programs.

Arizona jobless claims soared in just one week

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

he number of Arizonans applying for jobless benefits jumped by a factor of seven this past week, providing the first clear indicators of the effect COVID-19 is having on the state economy. New figures from the state Department of Economic Security shows there were 29,333 initial claims for unemployment insurance for the week ending this past Friday. That compares with 3,844 the week before and 3,357 the week before that. And all this occurred before the Legislature adopted an expanded definition of who is eligible for benefits to include not just those laid off but also to waive requirements for people to go out and look for work to get the weekly checks. That provides relief for those who expect to go back to their original jobs once their employer reopens. More significant, it protects those who are either infected or live in a home where

someone has COVID-19. Glenn Hamer, president of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said those are precisely the people who should not be out going from job site to job site. Gov. Doug Ducey has waived the existing oneweek waiting period after being out of work before someone can collect benefits. All that portends even higher numbers of people out of work – and looking for benefits – in the weeks ahead. In a new report, the Economic Policy Institute estimated that the state will lose nearly 280,000 jobs

This fever chart by thehustle.com shows the dramatic increase in unemployment claims nationally as a result of the coronavirus

see JOBLESS page 38 pandemic. (thehustle.com)

BUSINESS

APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

MAIL from page 35

business-related services where they can’t get to their offices,” he said. “Some people may be scanning things to email someplace or faxing time sheets to get paid. Several people have sent care packages to friends or relatives in more affected parts of the country. In some cases, people may be shipping things to customers where they would normally be seeing them in person.” Mailboxes & More is not a franchise, but an independently-owned business. Besides the mailing, packing, shipping services and office equipment such as copiers, scanners and fax machines available, Babb also provides notary services, mailboxes for rent, binding, laminating, mailing and packaging materials including oversize envelopes and bubble wrap, key cutting – even passport services. His shop offers passport photos, renewal applications and various mailing/shipping options to send the application to the processing center. “This is one service I feel like I have improved,” he said, noting he’s replaced an old Polaroid camera used by the previous owner with a digital one.

ERGO from page 35

would be great if everyone could afford one, however that’s not always the case, especially during this difficult time,” he said. “If I am assisting someone who’s working from home and all they have is a hard, flat back kitchen chair, I will give them some suggestions on how to make that chair more comfortable – for example purchasing a memory foam cushion or lumbar support for their lower back.” If the customer is prepared to seek a better supporting chair for their home office, Ergologics can make it more costeffective. “In my written report, I’ll also give them a recommendation for a new ergonomic chair, if needed. If they choose to purchase it and use the furniture vendor we recommend, they’ll get 50 percent off of the retail price,” he said. “If, however, they’re only working at home temporarily, a new chair may not be an option they want to pursue,” he added. “The ultimate goal is to make them as comfortable as possible with cheaper items or items that are available in their home.”

With the digital camera and the photo printer, he said, “I think the results are far better and less of an issue if you have to reshoot.” Making use of his former career experience and with an optimism for the future, Babb is expanding the offerings available at Mailboxes & More. He’s creating custom mugs, some sign services and projects that can make use of his 3-D printer. “I have a few things I’m interested in doing,” he said, pointing to over 30 years in graphic design and website development. “Six years ago, I sold a family of RV-related websites. With that business I also had an online store and published a small popup camper magazine,” he said. Before that he was the IT manager at an apparel manufacturer in Portland, Oregon, where he developed a web application to help run the business. “So, I feel like a business like this one has plenty of potential to capitalize on those various skills as well as being able to offer services that are solidly in my wheelhouse that weren’t previously offered or even considered.” Babb said he isn’t attempting to do everything at once, but will bring things on-

Even with the best scenario utilizing the best chairs and workstations, Ronda Moriarty said paying attention to your spine is always important. “As I teach in my postural classes, maintaining good postural habits is good prevention to minimize injuries, and especially when sitting or standing at your desk,” said Moriarty, an adjunct professor at Mesa Community College. “Posture involves the chain-link concept of body mechanics in which problems anywhere along the body chain can lead to problems above or below that point. For example: your head being too far forward or rearward causes headaches, eyestrain, neck and upper back pain and lower back or knee pain can cause pelvic joint disorders. “Sometimes the effects of posture can be far reaching, involving respiratory, digestive, and circulatory systems as well as the musculoskeletal system. Good posture also contributes to good appearance, poise confidence and dignity.” Moriarty, a fan of “positive quotes,” said one of her favorites is, “Of all the things you wear, posture is the most important.” Rubino and Moriarty’s business ven-

line as he’s able. “I’ve already started developing a web app for this business so I can track all the packages that are delivered from the time it comes in my door all the way to when it is handed to the recipient,” he said. “It still needs some smoothing out but has already proven to be helpful. It’s just the beginning,” he said. “I believe this business will dovetail nicely with my skills and allow me to build our services offerings into much more than just shipping and mailboxes.” He reminisced on how he and his wife Ivon made the decision to pull up roots and move from the Vancouver, Washington and Portland area to Ahwatukee – a decision, he said, they’re both thankful they made. “My wife and I wanted to move to someplace sunnier and warmer than Washington state, yet the thought of looking for a job in another state just didn’t thrill me so I started entertaining the idea of buying a business,” said Babb. “At 55, I wasn’t ready to retire. We considered a few places where we’d want to live and what kind of business would work for me. I found this business in July of last year and took a weekend to fly down to take a look at this one, and another similar one.

ture sprouted after the loss of their longterm employment. They worked for the county as senior ergonomic specialists – he for 21 years and she more than 13. “Unfortunately, in 2018, the county decided to outsource the ergonomic functions to an outside vendor and we were both laid off,” Rubino recalled. “After working jobs that we were unhappy with for about a year, we both realized we truly missed ergonomics, and missed being able to help people feel more comfortable at work,” Rubino said. “With our combined 35 years of experience in the ergonomics field with over 18,000 evaluations conducted we both knew that we didn’t want all of our knowledge and our desire to help people go to waste,” he said. So last year they started Ergologics, which they call “a comprehensive ergonomics company that can help businesses and individuals with all of their ergonomics needs.” To date, most of Ergologic’s clients were businesses wishing to ensure their employees were healthy and productive. “By focusing on the health and comfort

“I really liked the previous owner, and I loved Ahwatukee, so I made an offer. We sold our house and were down here in Arizona by the second week of November.” He worked with the previous owner until Christmas Eve, when he retired, and has been working the business on his own since then. Alex Gardner of Ahwatukee said he and his business partner have been customers of Mailboxes & More since they moved here in 1997. “We chose them for their convenient location and stayed because of the great service we’ve consistently received over the years,” said Gardner. “Since we traveled often, having a private mailbox was invaluable, allowing us to travel worry-free knowing all mail and packages arriving while we were gone were safe and protected.” He said he appreciated Babb being a “tech-savvy forward thinker who is constantly looking for ways to make things better for us.” “Dean is a breath of fresh air for the community. He’s extremely helpful, conscientious and service-oriented,” he added. Information: MailboxesandMoreAZ. com or 480-460-2108. of the people doing the job, businesses were able to greatly reduce absenteeism, decrease lost work days due to sickness, doctor visits, workers compensation costs and ultimately health insurance premiums. It is and was a win-win situation for the employee and the business,” he stated. As COVID-19 caused unprecedented numbers of employees to work from home, helping others make the best of their workspace now has Ergologics addressing that via online consultations. “We hope that by offering this service we can help reduce the stress that many people are feeling during these trying times and make their self-quarantine a little more tolerable and comfortable,” said Rubino, who lives in Ahwatukee with his wife Michele and their 14-year-old son. Even while focusing on the at-home employee, they’re still working with corporations and business entities. “We gladly offer a free workshop or in-service to anyone that wants to learn about what our company has to offer, or we can teach a free basic ergonomic class,” said Moriarty. Information: MyErgologics.com or Info@myergologics.com

BUSINESS

JOBLESS from page 36

in the private sector due to COVID-19. Not surprisingly, many of these will come in the leisure and hospitality industry with the shuttering of bars and a prohibition against in-restaurant dining in the counties with confirmed cases. Losses also are projected in retail trade. What makes that important is that one job out of every five in private industry is in those two sectors. And there’s a hit to the larger economy. The most recent figures from the state Office of Economic Opportunity – from January, before the outbreak – show 2.54 million people employed in the state’s private sector. The losses projected by the Economic Policy Institute amount to about 11.1 percent of the total. If the organization is correct, the change will boost the state’s jobless rate from 4.6 percent to close to more than 12 percent by this summer. That’s higher than not only than what it hit during the Great Recession but even higher than records going back nearly a half century, with a peak of 11.5 percent in December 1982. Less clear is the financial implication on

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

all of that to employers. By law, jobless benefits are paid for from a trust fund financed by a tax that all companies pay on the first $7,000 of each worker’s salary. Rates can range from less than 1 percent for employers who have the best job history – meaning the fewest number of workers let go – to 5.4 percent for those with the highest number of layoffs. The average this year, according to DES, is 1.6 percent, down from 2.4 percent following the recession. That trust fund is supposed to be selfleveling. Both the measure approved by lawmakers and the governor’s executive order contain provisions saying that an individual company’s experience in having to let go workers due to COVID-19 will not affect their premiums. But as the fund drains down, it will have to be replenished. That’s precisely what happened after the 2008 Great Recession where the fund, which had been at over $1 billion, went into the red by $600 million. And that forced the state to actually borrow money from the federal government. All that meant not only higher premiums but an actual $42-per-employee sur-

charge approved by the Legislature to pay off the note. What happens this time depends on several factors. It starts with the trust. The most recent figures show a balance of more than $1.1 billion. But then there’s the question of how long the downturn lasts. Hamer said there’s a big difference between the recession of the last decade and what’s happening now. He said that one was the result of structural weakness in the economy, something that took years to overcome. By contrast, Hamer said, the state and nation was on sound structural footing until the outbreak. And he said the worst of the virus could be over by the summer and employers could start rehiring then. One thing Hamer does not want to do, at least not now, is entertain calls by Democrats to raise benefits. By law, those who are fired through no fault of their own are entitled to collect half of their salary, generally for up to 26 weeks. But each state is entitled to decide its own maximum. For Arizona that is $240 a week, a figure that is higher than only Mississippi at

$235. It has not been updated since 2004, when the minimum wage here was $5.75 an hour and not $12 as it is now. Lawmakers urging an increase argued that people cannot live on that. Hamer, for his part, is not necessarily disagreeing. But he said this isn’t the time given that more money being paid out would lead to higher premiums for companies. “We have to look at it, as we look at that benefit, the effect it’s going to have on employers that are hemorrhaging cash, particularly for smaller businesses that are facing liquidity issues as we speak,’’ Hamer said. But he acknowledged that his organization has never argued for boosting the benefits.

Help for newly unemployed

Zippia, an online career development website, has posted a lengthy blog with tips for people who suddenly find themselves needing work. Go to zippia. com/job-search/remote-jobs.

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Little League postpones season until May BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

he coronavirus outbreak has impacted sports at every level, including Little League baseball and softball leagues in Ahwatukee and across the East Valley. Little League International announced play would be suspended until at least May 11. Ashley Jacobson, a parent in the Ahwatukee Little League, said the postponement of the league was disappointing for her three sons, Carter, 11; Lucas, 8; and Miles, 3. They’ve all gone through stressful disruptions in their routine with schools shutting down and now baseball’s postponement has added to their disappointment. While it’s been hard on all of them, it’s been more difficult for Carter, who is in his last season.

Ahwatukee Little League’s season was put on hold until at least May 11, something that may be welcome from parents after a family member of a player in the league tested positive for the coronavirus. (Photo courtesy Ahwatukee Little League)

“They’re kind of taking things day-byday, I know they miss playing ball,” Jacobson said. “Being able to sit and watch kids play sports is one of our favorite things to do this time of year. I understand why they did it, but it is still a little disappointing.”

Several members of the Ahwatukee Little League felt the same way about the postponement early on. But after Ahwatukee Little League officials announced a family member of one of its players had tested positive for COVID-19, those feel-

ings may have changed. “I think this gives another reason that we made a good decision on postponing the league,” said Ray Ng, the president of Ahwatukee Little League. “We want to make sure the community knows this is close to home and it’s not just stuff we read on the news. We should take this seriously for everybody’s safety.” Ng said the decision to push the league back as far as officials did was questioned by parents. But the positive test for the family member shows the virus can be anywhere. “We want to make sure our community is safe and the folks that are of older age that volunteer with the league are all safe,” Ng said. “We are all disappointed, but we want to err on the side of caution here.” In Gilbert, the impact of the Little League postponement is being felt across all three

see LITTLE LEAGUE page 40

Desert Vista’s Gino Crump named 6A Coach of the Year BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

whirlwind of a season ended in triumph for Desert Vista head basketball coach Gino Crump, as he led the Thunder program to its first state championship since 2008. On Wednesday, he was recognized for his accomplishments this past season, as Crump was named the 2019-20 6A Boys Basketball Coach of the Year. “With the season we had and with everything I went through, it’s surreal,” Crump said. “It was a season that I just, I can’t believe it happened. I’m speechless. I can’t believe it.” Crump was also named 6A Central Region Coach of the Year last week along with several other members of Desert Vista boys basketball program who received recognition.

Osasere Ighodaro, the only senior on the Thunder roster and Marquette signee, was named the 6A Central Region Player of the Year and Wednesday, followed it up with recognition as the Conference Player of the Year. He also received first-team all-conference honors alongside sophomore guard Dasean Lecque, who helped Desert Vista capture the state title in his first season since transferring from New York. Lecque was also named first-team all-region, while guards Marcus Wady and Andrew King received secondteam honors. Malik Mack and Tayan Thompson both were recognized as Desert Vista head boys basketball coach Gino Crump was named the 6A Conference Coach of the Year. (Chris Mortenson/ honorable mentions. “I knew we had a good group of AFN Contributor) kids that play the right way,” Crump said. difficult coaching that much talent on one “I have a whole group of kids that know team, but they all bought in.” they are talented enough to start on most Desert Vista was met with adversity teams in the state. Sometimes it can be near the midway point of the season, as

Crump was recommended for termination following his role in attempting to prevent a postgame altercation between a player and members of the St. Mary’s student section following a heated overtime win for the Thunder. He was forced to stay away from his team for six games, in which the Desert Vista went 5-1 under the direction of interim head coach Mike Smith. Crump was reinstated as head coach on Jan. 8 following an emergency meeting with Tempe Union High School District officials. His reinstatement came just over a week after a judge dismissed a restraining order filed by a Desert Vista parent against him. With a feeling of “vindication” following his reinstatement, Crump vowed to do what he could to lead his team to a statechampionship win. On Tuesday, March 3

see CRUMP page 41

SPORTS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Cheerleader concussion dangers cause concern BY LUIS TORRES Cronkite News

lla Johnston was a 13-year-old cheerleader when she suffered a concussion during practice that was so severe, she needed speech, occupational and physical therapy. Months later, she returned to the mat while still working on her recovery – underlining the dangers and the joys of cheerleading. “It’s such a high leading moment. You just want to show off all of your tricks and skills,” she said. The American Academy of Pediatrics in November identified cheerleading as having one of the highest rates of concussions during practices, second to boy’s football. Football’s connection to concussions has been established for several years, and medical experts have been studying concussions in domestic violence victims. But experts say reducing concussions in cheerleaders nationally has been sporadic, given the inconsistency across states over how it is classified: as an activity or

LITTLE LEAGUE from page 39

of the city’s leagues. Dennis Larson, a longtime board member in the Gilbert National Little League, expected to see some complaints from parents due to the postponement. However, none have come across his email. “I’ve gotten zero complaints, and I normally see all of those come through,” Larson said. “I saw some people criticize Little League International because they announced it would be postponed before schools were even closed. But now, I haven’t heard anything.” Larson became involved with Gilbert National 8 years ago when his son, who is now a junior at Mesquite High School, played. Since then, he has served as president and a member of the board. His family is feeling the impact of school closures, as high school athletics have been put on pause. Still, he can’t help but feel for the players in Gilbert National that are in their last season of eligibility for the Little League World Series. “We don’t know how everything is going to shake out yet,” Larson said. “We are typically wrapping up our regular season

a sport. Some studies have shown that some institutions do not consider cheerleading, with its jumps, tosses and other physical moves, to be a sport, which shortchanges safety protocols to avoid injuries The Desert Vista High School cheer team competed in the United Spirit Association’s like concussions annual tournament in February. (Special to AFN) – such as practicing in a hallway or on asphalt rather and inclusion in concussion management and education protocols. than a safer environment. “Although competitive cheerleading has “Unfortunately, not all states recognize cheerleading as a sport – which may im- been recognized as a sport, cheerleading pact the conditions in which cheer squads as a whole has not, putting its athletes at may practice,” the author of the study, Avi- risk as its participants are not included in nash Chandran, told Newsweek magazine. these safety programs,” the Journal study A Sports Journal study advocated for said, adding: “If considered a sport, cheerleading the acceptance of cheerleading as a sport so that its athletes may benefit from the would be afforded the same benefits same resources that other sports receive as other sports, including resources for

for a long time. “Initially, I don’t think they were really understanding the depth of everything but now there’s been a lot of empathy for what we are trying to do as a community.” Cardis is in Ashley Jacobson said her sons, Carter, Miles and Lucas were taking things day-by-day with his first year as the postponement of Ahwatukee Little League, and all wanted to play ball sooner rather president of Red than later. (Photo courtesy Ashley Jacobson) Mountain Little in mid-May. I feel bad for those kids who League, which serves as many as 450 are in their last year.” players. He has been involved with the Disappointment and overall a feeling of league for 3 years, watching both of his anguish for players spread across the East kids play. He admitted while he was disValley. Phil Cardis, the president of the appointed with the league’s postponeRed Mountain Little League in Mesa, said ment, he knows it is out of an abundance this was apparent in those involved in his of caution for both players and parents of league. the league. “There were some mixed reactions, but Nate Moore, whose son, Dru, plays in definitely some disappointment,” Cardis Skyline Little League in Mesa, shared the said. “A lot of the kids were excited about same sentiment. the opportunity to play. We have a lot of “We know Little League is taking prefamilies that have been with our program caution to not break that 10 people or

better facilities, mandatory concussion education… baseline neurocognitive testing, and inclusion in injury surveillance systems.” A Phoenix brain expert agrees. “All the protocols and safety measures that we institute in other sports like football should also be instituted in cheerleading if they aren’t already,” said Dr. Javier Cardenas, director of the Barrow Concussion and Brain Injury Center in Phoenix. “Thank goodness, they’re already instituted in Arizona.” The Arizona Interscholastic Association requires every participating school must have a concussion policy that addresses three components: concussion education, removal from play and return to play. But cheerleading continues after high school. Cardenas said the risk of injury in college is five times higher than in high school. “You see more men participate in the college level than in the high school level. They tend to throw the athletes higher.

see CHEER page 41

more contact thing,” Moore said. “We will probably transition him to club ball a little bit earlier this year because I don’t know if we will have a Little League season.” Moore said Dru has taken batting practice in the cage in their backyard along with other drills during the postponement. While they may begin the transition to club ball, they’re still hopeful for the Skyline season to resume. After two consecutive years of lopsided losses, Moore believes the league can compete and even make it past other leagues across the East Valley in postseason tournaments. “We really felt it was our year,” Moore said. “I know Dru is a little disappointed because of that.” Even with the possible resumption of play being in May, there remains a chance to salvage the All-Star season. All-Star selection typically begins midway through the season. Those who make the teams then compete in the state tournament. The Majors All-Star team is able to advance to regional tournaments and beyond. Should they make it, they would end up in South Williamsport, Penn. for

see LITTLE LEAGUE page 41

SPORTS

APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

CRUMP from page 39

the Thunder beat rival Mountain Pointe in an all-Ahwatukee championship. “We won a championship, I almost got fired and now I get coach of the year. It’s unbelievable,” Crump said. “Being vigilant, being faithful and doing everything for the right reasons, it all worked out in the end. That’s how I look at it.” To the surprise of many, none of Mountain Pointe’s players received all-conference recognition despite playing for the state title for the second time in three years. Junior guard Jason Kimbrough and forward Zereoue Williams received secondteam all-region honors, while freshman guard Mark Brown and sophomore guard Anthony Jamarillo were honorable mentions.

Have an interesting sports story? Contact Zach Alvira at zalvira@timespublications.com and follow him on Twitter @ZachAlvira.

LITTLE LEAGUE from page 40

the Little League World Series. Doug Brewster, the president of Chandler National Little League, anticipated a delay to the league. Even before Little League officially announced the postponement, he had already taken precautionary measures into his own hands. “We had already canceled Opening Day ceremonies, but we thought we would be able to play the games,” Brewster said. “I had actually reached out to Little League prior to that to ask them what their stance on it was. When they did respond with something, I felt good about the decision because it gave us a direction and put everyone on the same page.”

CHEER from page 40

That’s where we see the most head injuries,” he said. Cardenas said that one of the ways to reduce the amount of concussions and head-related injuries in cheerleading is to limit practice times. “What’s really important to preventing these injuries is making sure these prac-

Brewster has been involved with Chandler National for 20 years, dating back to when his son, who is now 25, started playing. He’s been a member of the board for 18 years and is in his 11th as president. He simply has a love for the game of baseball and the league, especially with coaches who share the same passion. “At least it hasn’t been completely canceled,” said Rich Groppenbacher, one of Chandler National’s coaches. “We are holding out hope at least All-Stars will take place this summer. This group of kids last year lost in the state championship. We have a good squad coming back and every 12-year-old’s dream is to make it to Williamsport.” Most parents, like Groppenbacher, have

tices are not extended because what happens is that all of the athletes get fatigued, weak and that’s when accidents happen.” Johnston, who has been cheerleading since the fifth grade, and returned to practice in August, said the road to recovery is long. “Physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy were very tiring, but they helped a lot,” she said.

expressed the same optimism regarding the season and eventually being able to play, including Somsak Smith. Smith has coached his son, Karson, in Chandler National for 6 years now. The duo started in the league together when Karson was 5 years old, playing other sports along the way. The postponement of the season creates a bit of a silver lining for the Smith family, especially given Karson’s involvement in club baseball, too. “My son plays a lot of baseball. Last year the All-Star season didn’t end until late July then we went right into club ball in the fall,” Smith said. “For me, I think it’s a good opportunity for him to step away from baseball and not get burned out.” Cardenas said drastic mood changes are one effect of a concussion, and Johnson said she experienced some emotional changes. “I’m usually a happy and perky person,” she said. “I was just tired and didn’t want to do anything.” Now 14, she started to feel her usual, more upbeat self within weeks, which reassured her and her family.

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APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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Pizza Dough: ly cup sprinkle shredded 1 egg plus 1oven tablespoon water 4Alternative: baby spinach leaves dry white winemozzarella and fresh grated Ingredients: 7 One-on-one fight 6 Reverberate Acknowledges 7989 7 Passover feast Bread spread ½ cup heavy cream ortoasted half and half 1 teaspoon kosher orslices sea salt cups white button mushrooms, sliced thin “Green” prefix ½ cup fresh parsley Municipal magistrates 1tablespoons tablespoon soy sauce hot water Make diagonal one and then the other 114tablespoon Parmesan cheese over top. 2Ingredients: pine nuts, cup heavy cream Marinara or pizza sauce, forway dipping

With JAN D’ATRI

Lasagna soup a one-pot wonder of deliciousness

With JAN D’ TRI WithJAN JAND’ D’AAATRI TRI With

BILIW

1 5 8 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 21 24 25 28 30 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 41 43 46 50 51 54 55 56 57 58 59

This one-pan wonder Shareable cheesy bread Add Shrimp Portofino There’ s hardy a secret to This BBQ pork recipe may Motor City marvel Add this tried-and-true Party with this takes little time to make istreasure ridiculously delish making steak salad tasty become adinner home favorite grabs the checkered flag to your menu Pepperoni Party Bread to your rotation

King Crossword Crossword King Crossword King Crossword King Crossword

Sudoku

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Keegan’s Grill is open for Delivery & Take Out Wednesday April 1st. 11:00 to 2:00 & 4:00 to 7:30. Limited Menu

Uber Eats - Grub Hub - and coming soon Door Dash.

Call 480-705-0505 AHWATUKEE

4723 EAST RAY ROAD

480-705-0505

Everything Made from Scratch Daily

Home & Away...Help is on the way!

FREE G W/PUR

MobileHelp is the premiere Medical Alert System that provides emergency coverage inside your home and throughout the USA.

$ • No equipment to buy • Simple one-button operation • Nationwide GPS location detection*

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1-866-767-7803 To get Life Saving Information and a FREE BROCHURE, call MobileHelp today! • No equipment to buy. • Sign up in minutes. Activation is simple. • No long term contract.

MobileHelp Exclusive Offer

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Get your free Emergency Key Holder when you purchase a MobileHelp service plan.

IFT

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Offer valid while supplies last.

Optional Fall Button™ with Automatic Fall Detect ■ Comfortable and lightweight ■ Signals for help even when you can’t press your button*

*Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Fall Button™ does not detect 100% of falls. If able, users should always push their help button when they need assistance. Fall Button™ is not intended to replace a caregiver for users dealing with serious health issues. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation. MobileHelp is a registered trademark and Fall Button is a trademark of MobileHelp. Patented technology. MobileHelp is an FDA registered company. MHP-06631A

CLASSIFIEDS

APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Classifieds

Ahwatukee Foothills News

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219 • Tempe, AZ 85282 480.898.6465 class@timespublications.com Deadlines

Classifieds: Friday 3pm for Wednesday Life Events: Friday 10am for Wednesday

The Place “To Find” Everything You Need | Ahwatukee.com Click on Marketplace

Employment

Real Estate

For Rent

Employment General

V1 Salon Space is looking to fill positions! *Room Rentals $840 per month *Chair Rental $630 per month Call for details: 480.704.1277 V1 Salon 15725 S 46 St. Building B, #108 Phoenix, AZ 85048

PROMOTERS WANTED!! AVG. PAY $19.48 - $27.33

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Commerical/ Industrial/Retail

To Set Up Interview Call, National Trainer, Steve Bloechel 480-298-3688!

To our customers, thank you, we appreciate you and we miss your pets! Call Eleanor 480-284-4897 www.WhileYouAreAwayServices.com

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• 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 Carpet Cleaning

Family owned and proudly serving Ahwatukee for over 20 years.

Air Conditioning/Heating

Powerful Truck Mounted Soft Hot Water Extractions.

QUALITY, VALUE and a GREAT PRICE!

Carpets, Tile & Grout, Upholstery, Pet Stain/Odor Treatment

Lifetime Warranty on Workmanship Seasonal AC Tune Up - $99 New 3-Ton AC Units - $3,995 We are a Trane dealer & NATE-Certified! ‘A+’ RATED AC REPAIR FREE ESTIMATE SAME DAY SERVICE

Bonded/Insured • ROC #289252

We will be back to work when it is safe for all of us!

Need to hire some help?

CONCRETE MASONRY Block Walls • Concrete • Pavers BBQ & Fireplaces • Stucco Cool Deck • Imitation Flagstone Call Garcia Cell Cell 602-515-6627 Free Estimates

If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It!

0% FINANCING - 72 Months!!

Pets/Services/Livestock

EUROPEAN STYLE CLEANING Honest & Responsible European lady Provides Quick, High Quality At Your House or Business 602-750-5971

Concrete & Masonry

Appliance Repair Now

Large Home Improvement Company Looking For People to Work at Chandler Fashion Center, Superstition Springs Mall & Arizona Mills Locations, Arrowhead Towne Center, & Surrounding Areas as well as Home Show Events to Schedule Appointments. Must be able to approach people. * GUARANTEED HOURLY PLUS COMMISSION (DEMO BONUS PLUS % of sale) * PAID TRAINING * PART TIME & FULL TIME * BENEFITS FOR FULL TIME * RETIREES & COLLEGE STUDENTS WELCOME

Cleaning Services

Appliance Repairs

3 Offices – Ahwatukee Foothills Full Service at $500/Mo Each 16815 S Desert Foothills Parkway Phoenix Az 85048 Justin - (480) 757-9203

480-405-7588

ItsJustPlumbSmart.com MORE CLASSIFIED ADS ONLINE! www.Ahwatukee.com

Small Jobs Welcome!

Not a licensed contractor

DESERT ROCK

CONCRETE & MASONRY CONCRETE BLOCKWALL RETAINING WALL BLOCK FENCE PLANTER BBQ

FOUNDATION DRIVEWAY SIDEWALK PATIO

PAVER • CONCRETE REMOVAL • HARDSCAPE BONDED & INSURED • ROC#321648 SATISFACTION GUARANTEED! FREE ESTIMATES • 16 YEARS EXPERIENCE RESIDENTIAL CALL JOHN: 480.797.2985 COMMERCIAL

Contractors

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

480.460.5030 Concrete & Masonry

Block Fence * Gates

602-789-6929 Roc #057163 Lowest Prices * 30 Yrs Exp Serving Entire Valley

YOU’LL LIKE US - THE BEST!

CLASSIFIEDS 480-898-6465 class@timespublications.com

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Drywall

Garage/Doors

JOSE DOMINGUEZ DRYWALL & PAINTING

GARAGE DOOR SERVICE

House Painting, Drywall, Reliable, Dependable, Honest! QUICK RESPONSE TO YOUR CALL! 15 Years Experience • Free Estimates

480.266.4589 josedominguez0224@gmail.com Not a licensed contractor.

East Valley/ Ahwatukee

Home Improvement

Handyman

REMODEL CONTRACTOR

MALDONADO HOME REPAIR SERVICES

Broken Springs Replaced

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

Not a licensed contractor

480-215-3373

Nights/Weekends Bonded/Insured 480-251-8610

CALL DOUG

Home Improvement

480.201.5013

THE HANDYMAN THAT HANDLES SMALL JOBS THAT OTHERS DECLINE ✔ Painting ✔ Sprinkler Repair ✔ Lighting ✔ Gate Restoration ✔ Replace Cracked ✔ & MUCH MORE! Roof Tiles

Garage/Doors

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

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

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! Painting • Flooring • Electrical

Electrical Services

the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! • Drywall • Carpentry Plumbing Same Day ServiceMarks Painting • Flooring • Electrical • Plumbing Painting • Flooring • ElectricalDecks • Tile • More! Drywall Repair/Install All Major Brands Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry• Carpentry • Decks • Tile & More! Decks • Tile • More! “No Job Too

Call for Our Monthly Special Discount“No JobSmall Too Man!”

• FREE ESTIMATES •

“No Job Too Small Man!”

Small Man!”

rk Since 1999 Affordable, Quality Wo 1999 Since rk Wo y alit Qu e, abl Afford

480-893-8091 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Ahwatukee References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor Affordab Call BruceResident/ at 602.670.7038 ROC#126694 Bonded/Insured BSMALLMAN@Q.COM “No Job Too Work Since 1999 Quality le,Small 2010, 2011 Affordab Man!” 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2012, 2013, “No Job 2010, 2011 2014 2014 2012,92013, Too Small Man!” Ahwatukee Resident • Dependable & Honest 199 e Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor Sinc k 2014 le, Quality Wor 2010, 2011 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2012, 2013, 2014 2014

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not aBruce Licensed at Contractor Call 602.670.7038

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

Handyman

Residential Electrician

ROC#277978 • Licensed/Bonded/Insured

C. READ & SON ELECTRIC  Electric Car Chargers for ALL your  Fans electrical needs  Lighting 41 years  Troubleshooting  And much more experience

Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured

Add a Background Color to Your Ad! Classifieds 480-898-6465

Tile

Able Handyman Service LLC

And Much, Much More!

Ahwatukee Resident

• BASE BOARDS • DRYWALL • ELECTRICAL • PAINTING • PLUMBING • BATHROOMS • WOOD FLOORING • FRAMING WALLS • FREE ESTIMATES • GRANITE FABRICATION & INSTALLATION • CARPET INSTALLATION • LANDSCAPING

No Job Too Small! Senior Discounts!

David Hernandez (602) 802 3600

daveshomerepair@yahoo.com • Se Habla Español

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

CDS LANDSCAPING

Irrigation Systems & Outdoor Lighting C - Caring alls Repairs & Instuse. rm te D - Dedicated ng for lo ing S - Service No Landscap

LANDSCAPING

. Maintenance

• Evening & Weekend Service Only • You Pay Labor & Materials Only Rated 4.9 • ROC#312942 on homeadvisor.com

david@swo-of-artworks.com

480-580-4419

Owner: David “Ray” Smith

Not a licensed

contractor Jim 480.593.0506 Ablehandyman2009@gmail.com

480.335.4180 Not a licensed contractor.

Flooring

HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY

ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932

Paint

AND so much more!

480-940-6400

- Ahw Resident Since 1987 -

Electrical

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

www.readelectricaz.com

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

Plumbing

Visit our website! Landlord and Homeowner Property Services

2008 through 2019

ROC #158440 Bond/Insured

FREE Estimates!

Jaden Sydney Associates.com

Call Sean Haley 602-574-3354

Ahwatukee Resident

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

Home Remodeling NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR

150 OFF

Serving the Valley for over 28 years

The Possibilities are Endless

(Min. $750 job. Expires 5-31-20.) ROC #296456 & ROC #297719 “Licensed-Bonded -Insured”

“

I just had Gainey Flooring replace the carpet floors at my new house with tile. They did the same at my last house and did a beautiful job! Out of all the people I’ve hired for services with my new house Gainey Flooring was the easiest to work with, most efficient and lived up to all promised. I can not recommend them enough for all flooring needs. Bruce will be sure it’s done — Kennedy B right (the owner). They won’t disappoint you!

”

602-989-8255 | floors4youaz.com

• Long track record of satisfied customers, -check out our 5 star Google and Yelp reviews

Custom Design and Renovation turning old to new Custom Built-ins, BBQs, Firepits, Fireplaces, Water Features, Re-Designing Pools, Masonry, Lighting, Tile, Flagstone, Pavers, Culture Stone & Travertine, Synthetic Turf, Sprinkler/Drip, Irrigation Systems, Clean ups & Hauling

• Friendly, professional and reliable installers with attention to detail

Call for a FREE consultation and Estimate

• Tile selection and creative design assistance

To learn more about us, view our photo gallery at: ShadeTreeLandscapes.com

• Converting tubs to walk-in showers

480-730-1074

Bonded/Insured/Licensed • ROC #225923

CLASSIFIEDS Landscape/Maintenance Foothills Touch Landscapes LLC Lawn care/Maint.

Juan Hernandez

TREE

Starting as low as

TRIMMING

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Landscape/Maintenance

Painting

Complete Lawn Service & Weed Control

Arizona Specialty Landscape

Jose Dominguez Painting & Drywall SEE OUR AD IN DRYWALL! Quick Response to your Call! 15 Years Exp 480-266-4589

$25 per visit.

25 Years exp (480) 720-3840

Starting @ $60/Month!

Install/Design We do it all!

Not a licensed contractor

Juan Hernandez

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

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

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

• One Month Free Service

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online!

kjelandscape.com • ROC#281191

Call 480-898-6465

MD’S LANDSCAPING Drip Systems Installed, Valves/Timer Repairs

• Licensed, Bonded Insured for your protection. • Call or Text for a Free Quote

Specials

Lawn Mowing Starts At $40 Full Service Starts At $70 480-745-5230

SONORAN LAWN

Is your lawn ready for the holidays? Call for a clean up.

Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician

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

Call Lance White

480.721.4146 www.irsaz.com

ROC# 256752

Wi-Fi Irrigation & Lighting timers

UNDER $100 dandlsprinklerservice.com

602.329.3396 Not a Licensed Contractor

theplugman.com

FREE LAWN WEED CONTROL TREATMENT WITH CORE AERATION

480-338-4011

ROC#309706

“We get your house looking top notch!”

NOPAL LANDSCAPE

★ Interior/Exterior Painting ★ Drywall Repair & Installation ★ Popcorn Ceiling Removal

• Tree Trimming • Removals • Weed Control • Winter Grass • Clean Ups • Irrigation Repairs • Timer Repairs & More...

Scott Mewborn, Owner 480-818-1789

★ Elastomaric Roof Coating ★ Epoxy Floors ★ Small Job Specialist

License #ROC 298736

Weekly • Bi Weekly • Monthly Low Rates

Mariano 480-276-5598

602.515.2767

ROC 304267 • Licenced & Bonded

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

ROC 282663 * BONDED * INSURED YOUR LAWN EXPERT SINCE 1995

Not a licensed contractor.

480.345.1800

Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

FERTILIZER PROGRAMS * SOIL TESTING * LAWN SERVICE

Jose Martinez

MOST REPAIRS

Warranty On All Work

480-940-8196

Complete Clean Ups

Misting Systems

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

TRIM TREES ALL TYPES GRAVEL - PAVERS SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

Landscape Lighting

Not a licensed contractor

Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

High Quality Results

D&L SPRINKLER SERVICE

We Do Installs!

ROC# 186443 • BONDED

SPRING LAWN GREEN-UP?

FREE ESTIMATES! CALL 24 HOURS 25 Yrs Exp. I Do All My Own Work! Call Mark

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED!

Free Estimates 7 Days a Week!

480.844.9765

15 + Yrs Exp! All English Speaking Crew

Referred out of Ewing Irrigation Not a licensed contractor.

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

480-586-8445

Let’s get your Watering System working again! System Checks • Drip Checks

480.295.2279

New & Re-Do Design and Installation

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

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Painting

The Valley’s Premier Painters Proudly Serving Ahwatukee for 15 Years! Family Owned & Operated Residential • Commercial • Best Painters EVER!

Pool Service / Repair

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

1st Month of Service FREE

Crops of Luv

For a limited time

Call Now! SPEND A LITTLE…

MAKE A LOT!

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

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

Call me, Howard:

$25 OFF

Filter Cleaning!

480.231.9651

Monthly Service & Repairs Available

Not a licensed contractor.

www.barefootpoolman.com

AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member

602-546-POOL 7 6 6 5

• Epoxy Floors & Concrete Coatings

See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook

Plumbing

• Interior & Exterior

Meetings/Events

“Professional, Punctual & Clean”

Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

ACP is 100% Veteran Owned

YOUR CLASSIFIED SOURCE

"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

Like us on Facebook to stay current & Receive 5% Off Services

480.898.6465

cropsofluv@cox.net

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

www.AcpPaintingllc.com

Pool Service / Repair

Licensed - Bonded - Insured ROC 290242

FREE ESTIMATES • CALL TODAY!

(480)785-6323

CLR Pool Service LLC

Place YOUR Business HERE! in the Service Directory

AHWATUKEE SPECIAL $

40 Off

*Any work done

Excellent Service... First time, Every time!

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

Charles Rock - Ahwatukee Resident

480.399.ROCK (7625)

Call for our 3 Month Special! Starting at $145.20/month

Juan Hernandez

Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

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

Call Juan at

480-720-3840

charles@clrpoolservice.com

www.clrpoolservice.com

Not a licensed contractor.

Plumbing

Classifieds: 480-898-6465

Plumbing

PLUMBING

SERVICE • REPAIR • REPLACEMENT We offer personalized service for our customers. We use the best materials that we can find.

Owned and Operated by Rod Lampert Ahwatukee Resident Serving Ahwatukee for over 25 years

Our services include: Sinks, Toilets, Faucets, Water Heaters, Garbage Disposal, Drain Cleaning, Pressure Reducing Valves, Pressure Vacuum Breakers, Hot Water Circulation Systems, Main Service Valves and Hose Taps.

(480) 279-4155 Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC 189848

$35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!

A+ RATED

We Repair or Install ROC # 272721

AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured

704.5422

(480)

CLASSIFIEDS

APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Roofing

TILE ROOFING SPECIALISTS

PHILLIPS ROOFING LLC

Member of ABM

Licensed • Bonded • Insured ROC 223367

Valleywide

CR 42 DUAL

623-873-1626 Your leaks stop here! New Roofs, Repairs, Coatings, Flat Roof, Hot Mopping & Patching & Total Rubber Roof Systems

All employees verified Free estimates on all roofs 36 Years experience in AZ Licensed contractor since 2006

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident

10% OFF COMPLETE UNDERLAYMENT Commercial & Residential Family Owned & Operated

Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

AZROC #283571 | CONTRACTOR LIC. AZROC #312804 CLASS CR4 | FULLY INSURED

FREE ESTIMATES 602-736-3019

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

aOver 30 Years of Experience aFamily Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers!

Family Owned & Operated for over 30 years

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING

FREE ESTIMATES & MONSOON SPECIALS

ROC #152111

Quality Repairs & Re-Roofs

Valley Wide Service

Complimentary & Honest Estimates

480-446-7663

SAME DAY SERVICE

Call our office today!

480-460-7602

30 Years Experience References Available Licensed Bonded Insured ROC 286561

Senior & Military Discounts

480-280-0390 Add a Background Color to Your Ad! Classifieds 480-898-6465

phillipsroofingaz.com phillipsroofing@cox.net

Plumbing Heating & Air

See MORE Ads Online!

Ahwatukee’s Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer! FREE Estimates • Credit Cards OK www.spencer4hireroofing.com ROC#244850 | Insured | Bonded

FREE SERVICE CALLS

Spring into Summer with a NEW Kitchen, Bathroom or Windows

ITS

Put Our Experience to Work for You!

189

GARBAGE DISPOSAL

($85 Value)

NEW A/C UN

Water Heaters $

799

Licensed, Bonded, Insured

Remodeling

DRAIN CLEANING

www.porterroofinginc.com

with this ad

www.Ahwatukee.com

4995

Ask us about our discount for all Military and First Responders!

10% OFF

Plumbing

PlumbSmart

3,995!

We also offer Energy Efficient Window Replacement

starting at

480-405-7099

(advertised offers cannot be combined)

• TUB TO SHOWER CONVERSIONS • KITCHEN & BATHROOM REMODELS • MASTER BATHROOM WALK IN SHOWERS

25 MONTHS $ NO INTEREST 500 NO PAYMENTS

We are A+ Rated by the BBB and stand behind our work with a Lifetime Warranty. Call us for the BEST SERVICE and PRICES in the East Valley! Thank you Mesa for Voting us #1

Experience, Service and Price

Find out why our customers become customers for life! Over 700 five-star Google reviews!

FREE ESTIMATES

ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

ABA

www.abahomeremodeling.com

HOME REMODELING

KITCHEN • WINDOWS • BATHROOMS OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE REMODELING HOMES

Gift card to Lowe’s with Quote off project

DON’T OVER PAY! Call or text us TODAY!

480.988.1903 BONDED & INSURED • ROC#271056

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020

Roofing

Tree Services

BEST PLACE TO MAKE

Roofing The Most Detailed Roofer in the State

602-938-7575 $ 1000 OFF

TREE ART Tree Trimming, Removals, Haul off and Yard clean-ups. Available weekends.

Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC Roofs Done Right...The FIRST Time!

Not a licensed contractor.

13 yrs exp. 480-329-2239 arpjeff103@gmail.com

CLASS@ TIMESPUBLICATIONS. COM

when you show this ad

Roofing

Let us show you the IN-EX Difference!

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

on qualifying complete roof replacements

and every step of the way.

Serving The Valley Since 1996

15-Year Workmanship Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems

www.timklineroofing.com

FREE Estim a and written te proposal

480-357-2463 R.O.C. #156979 K-42 • Licensed, Bonded and Insured SHARE WITH THE WORLD!

Place a Birth, Anniversary, Wedding Announcement, In Memoriam, Obituary or any life event in this paper today! Call us for details. class@timespublications.com or call 480-898-6465

inexroofing.com Call for your FREE Roof Evaluation

480-446-7663

THE EAST VALLEY TRIBUNE’S JOB BOARD HAS THE TALENT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR. FIND THE BEST TALENT HERE. EASILY POST JOBS.

Ahwatukee’s Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

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APRIL 1, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

palmabrisa.com

NOW SELLING

A new gated resort community is coming soon in the Ahwatukee Foothills with a dramatically different style. It feels exclusive, but also lively and exciting — and it's called Palma Brisa. • Modern resort-style gated community with stately palms

• Diverse architecture: Modern Bungalow, Urban Farmhouse, Italian Cottage, Andalusian, Modern Craftsman, French Country, and Spanish Mission • Four amenity areas connected by expansive lawns

• Homes from 1,700 sq. ft. to 4,000 sq. ft. from the $400’s

ERIC WILLIAMS

480-641-1800

TERRY LENTS

© Copyright 2019 Blandford Homes, LLC. No offer to sell or lease may be made prior to issuance of Final Arizona Subdivision Public Report. Offer, terms, and availability subject to change without prior notice. Renderings are artist’s conceptions and remain subject to modification without notice.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 1, 2020