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Flag-burning prompts call for ‘Ahwatukee Unite Day’
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
The overnight burning of an American flag hung outside a retired U.S. Marine’s Ahwatukee home has provoked outrage and prompted a call for a community-wide display of flags this Sunday to protest the desecration.
Nine-year veteran Brian Ellison discovered the flag’s charred remains as he pulled out of his garage on 16th Avenue in the Club West area around 7 a.m. last Thursday, March 30.
“He was extremely upset,” said his wife, Lisa Woods Ellison. “People have died for that flag and this is just outrageous. I was in shock. I could not believe someone would do this.”
And while police investigate, the Ellisons are calling on all Ahwatukee homeowners to post flags outside their home on Sunday, April 9, for what they’re calling “Ahwatukee Unite Day.”
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
ACenter Court widow has filed a complaint with the state against the Ahwatukee Board of Management for excluding her as a candidate in today’s board elections – allegedly because she opposes housing on the defunct Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course.
The elimination of Karin E. Gray left only four
candidates for four vacancies on the nine-seat ABM board – including the people selected to fill vacancies created last fall by the resignation of three board members who were open-space advocates.
In a complaint to the state Real Estate Department, Gray accuses the board of conducting the election in a “careless, arbitrary and capricious way.”
Gray said ABM board President Dan Smith told
“I want to ask the Ahwatukee Community to place an American flag on your home and show everyone we do not tolerate or accept this behavior,” Lisa Ellison said. “It would be nice if everyone put a flag up outside their house on Sunday. Of course, we’d like them to keep it up, but at least on Sunday we could have ‘Ahwatukee
(Photos by Dianne Ross/AFN Contributor)
Ahwatukee residents Xavier Kennedy, 8, and Kiki Owens, 15, don’t know each other, but they have a lot in common. Both are staging unrelated fundraisers on their own to help kids less fortunate than them. See pages 8 and 9.
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Ahwatukee science teacher preferred degree ceremony at the zoo
Not many post-graduate students collect a master’s degree at a zoo, but that only seemed a natural venue for Centennial Middle School science teacher Sarah Frain.
That’s because when Frain wasn’t taking online courses from Miami University in Ohio, her “classroom” was the Phoenix Zoo, where she studied animals as part of the Project Dragonfly Advanced Inquiry Program. Among other things, she studied biodiversity threats, conservation and evolution.
As a middle-school student, Frain was a zoo teen volunteer, and over four years “I grew into my leadership abilities and loved using animals to help teach zoo guests,” she said. “It was my work as a zoo teen at the Phoenix Zoo that inspired me to become a teacher.”
Her online classes allowed her to connect with other students around the world to exchange data on the differences that location and climate have on animals.
“For another project, I had students examine the effect of crayfish on native species of aquatic life in Arizona,” she explained. “I loved every person in class at the Phoenix Zoo because we not only got to interact with different people and animals, but also outside presenters from various organizations.”
Her goals in selecting the zoo as her classroom were twofold.
“My hope is that by educating my students, using
AFN NEWS STAFF
(Special
Sarah Frain feeds one of her “classmates,” a Galapagos Tortoise, at the Phoenix Zoo on her first day of a masters program she recently completed at Miami University in Ohio.
Close-out Specials!!
from page 3
skills and information that I learned in this program, is that I create a group of people who care about the world and are conscious citizens, educating others about our world and how to preserve it. I want to spread my passion for science and empower my students to change the world,” Frain said, adding:
“By educating younger generations about the earth’s unique ecosystems, conservation practices and responsible caretaking of our limited resources through hands-on, engaging science lessons, we have the power to stop the destruction of our precious resources.”
Her other focus was related.
It involves her desire to work with other educators on “changing the way that science is taught so that as many students as possible can become aware of the issues of the world and change their actions.”
“I strongly believe that the future of
our planet lies in the hands of today’s youth, who need strong educators to guide them along the way,” Frain explained.
Haunted by the middle and high school memories of “a series of horrible science teachers” who “could make even animals boring,” Frain said her zoo work went a long way in helping her reach her goal of forming a classroom “where students do not feel forced to learn, but instead find it to be a liberating, and place full of discovery.
“I want to impart on my students how interesting and amazing science is, and make it obtainable for each and every student,” she added.
As for her graduation ceremony, she bypassed the typical mass ceremony at Miami University and chose a “great, intimate gathering” with 15 fellow students at the zoo.
“We each talked about the unique work we did over the course of the program, based on our unique needs and goals,” she said.
& positive way
SUMMER FUN
her that the board’s selection committee decided it wanted only four candidates for four positions and that it had reviewed the five contenders for “conflicts of interest.”
The only problems, she said, are that the board never formally created a selection committee by amending its bylaws in public and it won’t identify the members.
“All he kept saying is, ‘It’s legal. It’s legal. It’s legal,” she recalled Smith telling her.
Neither Smith nor ABM General Manager Robert Blakesley returned AFN calls for comment.
Gray has asked the Real Estate Department to void the election scheduled today, April 5; to establish rules in public for a screening committee; to prevent board members from retaliating against her; and to order the board to refund the $500 she paid when she filed as a candidate.
Gray was an elected member of the ABM board from 2003 until 2015 and served as its treasurer.
She lost when three Save the Lakes members – group president Ben Holt, attorney Jeff Hall and Realtor Pete Meier – were elected.
Those three members quit the board last September, citing a pattern of
“harassment, intimidation and, in our opinion, even bullying from some of the ABM leadership,” according to a joint letter all three men published in AFN on Oct. 12.
The board never responded to that open letter.
A private detective, Gray moved to Ahwatukee from Texas shortly after her husband died to be near her parents and raise her two children.
In her complaint, she told the Real Estate Department:
“During all Ms. Gray’s years associated with the ABM, homeowners that were interested in being elected submitted a simple application, including a brief biography, by a published deadline.
“The applications were reviewed to make sure the homeowner was current with his/her dues and assessments, and each name was listed on a ballot, printed and mailed to all homeowner/members before the annual meeting.”
She recalled how at that meeting, candidates could give speeches and volunteers counted the votes.
The three candidates with the most votes were seated as the new directors and the full list of candidates with the number of votes they received was posted.
Gray told the state she “is not aware of any time that a homeowner in good
standing was not allowed to run for the board.”
Indeed, she had learned to handle the board’s finances so well that its members kept asking her to stay in the treasurer’s post, she said.
Gray said she saw candidate application forms that each had a different deadline for filing for the election, though she met the earlier one.
She cited this as one of several examples “of the careless, arbitrary and capricious way this election was held.”
On March 14, three days before the ballots were mailed to homeowners, Gray said in the complaint, she was told she was off the ballot.
Although she told the Real Estate Department that she was never given a reason for her disqualification, Gray in an interview suggested it has to do with the bitter enmity between the board and Save the Lakes, a group of homeowners who want the golf course restored.
Those homeowners also oppose True Life Companies’ plan for an “agrihood” that includes about 270 homes, a fiveacre farm, private school, café and other amenities on the 101-acre golf course, which has been closed for four years.
Gray in an interview told the AFN she is not a member of Save the Lakes, but that “I have attended a few of their meetings.”
She said one question on the ABM board on its election forms asked candidates if they had ever contributed money to Save the Lakes.
“I did make a contribution once,” she said, adding:
“I do believe the golf course should stay green. Whether it is a golf course or a park, I don’t know. But I do favor the open space.”
She added that the hostility between the ABM board and Save the Lakes, however, has become so deep that it’s difficult to see how or whether it can be resolved.
RECEDING GUMS?
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
There were ice-cream deliveries to arrange, raffle prizes to solicit and wrap, a band to order and a score of other details to work out.
But 15-year-old Kiki Owens has been steadily working through all the details for a couple of months as she prepared her big fundraiser – an ice cream social to benefit Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation slated for 2-5 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at Desert Garden Montessori, 5130 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee.
The Seton Catholic Preparatory sophomore organized and executed every aspect of the fundraiser by herself because she’s passionate about the foundation, which started in 1984 to raise money to give foster children things that ordinary kids often take for granted.
Because the state barely covers the essentials for foster kids, the foundation buys them things like bikes, music and dance lessons and sports equipment. In 33 years, the foundation has raised $7 million to help enrich the lives of more than 30,000 foster children.
“I just think this organization is awesome,” said Kiki. “I think every child should get the chance to have a happy childhood.”
Kiki herself was a 1-year-old foster child in South Korea when she was adopted and feels blessed for the childhood she has had with her parents, Caroline and Robert Owens.
But she doesn’t want the focus to be on her.
“This is all about the foundation and the kids it helps,” she said.
Kiki’s diplomacy and hustle have yielded big raffle prizes and other donations.
She persuaded Cold Stone Creamery and Shamrock Farms to donate the ice cream, lined up the student band from Desert Garden Montessori – her grade school alma mater – for entertainment and even lined up a chiropractor to give massages.
She said Rick Miller, owner of the Cold Stone Creamery at The Shoppes
at Casa Paloma, 7131 W. Ray Road, Chandler, “has been so supportive of this event,” donating hundreds of cups of four different flavors.
“This event would not have been possible without Cold Stone Creamery in The Shoppes,” she added.
Miller said Kiki “touched my heart.”
“I think it is extraordinary for a high school student to take something like this on on her own,” he said. “It was a pleasure to help her.”
Shamrock Farms donated another nine gallons of ice cream.
Kiki bought the toppings last weekend, using the $100 gift card she got from Basha’s in Ahwatukee.
And she’s assembled an A-list set of 15 raffle baskets that include a twohour bowling party at Brunswick Zone valued at $165, a ardening basket from The Garden Guy worth $150, a Health Source Pain Reduction basket worth about $130, a basket from Philosophy worth $165, and a Kendra Scott necklace.
She’ll also have one of many gift cards donated to her cause as a prize for an Easter Egg Hunt that will be held during the event.
Also donating their time are the members of the Desert Garden Montessori band, delovely.
The band prefers to put its name in lower case.
Band members Anna Bachmann, Gabby Fonsecca and Steph Jones have been together for a year and play parties. They also have performed at their school’s Harvest Festival and Multicultural Day.
Not everything was donated.
Kiki shelled out money from her own purse to buy wrapping for the raffle baskets and for the string and beads that she used to make more than 200 “wish bracelets” that she’ll sell for $5 to $7 each at the ice cream social.
The bracelets are attached to preprinted cards she bought online that tell the wearer their wish will come true once the bracelet wears out.
Admission to the social is $5 and payable at the door or available online at fs25.formsite.com/AFFCF/form21/ index.html.
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Ahwatukee boy, 8, launches campaign for ‘kids who are not as fortunate as me
BY PAUL MARYNIAK
AFN Executive Editor
Xavier Kennedy can’t wait to go to Harry Potter World.
But the 8-year-old Ahwatukee boy has a bigger goal in mind right now: raising enough money to send a less fortunate youngster to the California amusement park.
A second grader at Cerritos Elementary Leadership Academy, Xavier launched his campaign on Facebook with a plea.
“It makes me really sad to think about kids who love Harry Potter as much as me but could never afford to go there,” he wrote. “My plan is to raise $900 to send a kid and their parent who couldn’t afford to go to Harry Potter Land on this amazing wizarding adventure.”
The son of Genevieve and Scott Kennedy, Xavier didn’t just pull that figure from a wizard hat.
He worked out a budget and that includes tickets, food, hotel, gas and a souvenir.
Then he came up with “a bunch of ideas” for raising the money, starting with the sale of hand-made magic wands for $20.
“I use cooking chopsticks and use hot glue to make the handle, then I put two coats of paint and add gold, white or brown accent,” Xavier told AFN.
Because each wand takes four or five days to make, Xavier worked for a month on making some before he went public. So far he’s sold more than a dozen. He’s also planning to sell “a little book
full of spells and their definitions that you can fit in your pocket.”
“You can use spells from the movie or make up your own. It’s kind of like a dictionary of spells. I have an idea of how to make these but we haven’t started making them yet.”
He said his idea came to him when he first proposed raising money so he and his 4-year-old sister could go.
“My mum promised eventually we would go to Harry Potter land, then I thought about kids who are not as fortunate as me and decided to raise money to send a kid and his parent to Harry Potter land for two days,” he said.
“The idea just popped into my head to start raising money to help another kid because I was so sad to think they couldn’t do what my family could afford to do.”
By his estimation, Xavier became a Harry Potter when he was 4 years old.
“I loved to use my imagination and pretend sticks were magic wands,” he said. “By the time I was 4, my parents introduced me to Harry Potter and I started to love it. I have seen all the movies and me and my mum are halfway through the last Harry Potter book.”
He’s also a budding artist. “Even though he’s crazy good at math and science, his absolute favorite part of his week is art,” his mom said.
For the ongoing Kyrene student art show this week, Xavier used watercolors to create a picture of a vase resembling art from the Ming Dynasty, complete with Chinese symbols to represent prosperity.
Motorists vent rage at interim Pecos Road
The “interim Pecos Road” opened between 24th and 40th streets Monday, April 3, and ran into a buzz saw of harsh criticism on social media from motorists.
And the Arizona Department of Transportation said that while it will make some adjustments to address complaints, motorists need to adjust their driving habits as well.
ADOT opened the four-lane makeshift road on the eastbound lanes of “old”
Pecos Road to allow traffic to continue while the South Mountain Freeway is under construction until late 2019.
Motorists complained about confusing lane stripes, the absence of a median barrier between the two eastbound and two westbound lanes and the narrowness of the new road created by the placement of concrete barriers on either side.
Pat Lawlis, president of Preserve Arizona’s Resources and Children, which is fighting the freeway in a federal
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The governing board last week approved the appointment of Jamie Weinberger as Milenio’s new principal. She’s replacing Carrie Furedy, who will be a director of school effectiveness for the district.
“Being the principal of Milenio is one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever had,” said Furedy, who has been at Milenio for a little more than four years.
“Milenio is truly a remarkable place,” she told parents in a letter. “Our staff
FREEWAY
from page 9
appeals case, told Connect202Partners:
“It has become clear today that you have rushed into preparing the interim Pecos Road. It is unnecessarily dangerous.”
“Are you planning to construct the entire freeway in the same half-baked manner? Or are you just purposely badgering and endangering Ahwatukee residents because we don’t want your unnecessary freeway?”
Other residents complained of inadequate signage, poor lighting, confusing surface stripes and potholes.
Connect202Partners has promised to
members are deeply committed to children and families, and they work together to create an environment focused on developing successful, collaborative learners inspired to be Kids of Character.”
Weinberger, an Illinois native who obtained her bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University and a master’s at Grand Canyon University, most recently was the dean of students at Whitman Elementary in Mesa. She has taught kindergarten, as well as second, fourth and sixth grades at Chandler’s International Baccalaureate K-8 Academy.
Kyrene Superintendent Jan Vesely said Furedy will work with her replacement “to make certain that there is a smooth transition in leadership at the school.”
fix a number of the complaints, wrote Bill Mager, an Ahwatukee resident who said he talked to the developer.
ADOT spokesman Dustin Krugel said the traffic shift “requires an adjustment by motorists, who have a responsibility to drive the reduced speed limit, share the road and drive with caution.”
Noting ADOT has used interim roads before, he promised new safety features to enhance night-time visibility.
The other big problem – rush hour traffic jams at Pecos and 40th Street –may require further study, Krugel said.
“Crews have been adjusting the traffic signals at 40th Street,” he said. “It’s something we are definitely keeping close tabs on.”
AFN NEWS STAFF
(Lauren Clark/Kyrene School District)
Staffers congratulate outgoing Kyrene del Milenio Elementary Principal Carrie Furedy, center left, while her replacement Jaimie Weinberger stands next to her holding flowers.
BY COLLEEN SPARKS AFN Staff Writer
Students at Mountain Pointe High School roared with excitement when Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey visited them for an up-close lesson in politics.
Their cheers could be heard when Ducey arrived in front of the school on March 28 as Mountain Pointe’s orchestra played amid greetings from cheerleaders, the student council and the Arizona DECA Club, along with district administrators and some state elected officials.
It was the first time Ducey had visited a school at the invitation of students while in office as governor, though adult administrators have invited him to various campuses before. Mountain Pointe also was the largest school he has visited so far as governor.
The Republican leader not only boosted students’ confidence with his interest in their work, but also sipped his first iced latte, made by students in a culinary arts class. He also got a sample of the academically rigorous and career-
oriented classes that many of the school’s 2,700 students are taking.
Ducey said he had never tried an iced latte as he drank it in a culinary arts classroom, where students also showed him the dinner rolls they were making. He also visited an engineering class,
where students showed him robots they were building and programming. Students asked Ducey questions about his political life and professional background in Mountain Pointe teacher Lane Waddell’s U.S./Arizona government class.
Three Mountain Pointe seniors in the class – Alexis Bivens, Mea Miller and Raquel Labesa – had invited Ducey to their school by emailing the governor’s staff.
“It was an amazing experience for him to come,” Alexis, 18, of Maricopa, said. “It says a lot about our school and us as a whole. He seemed like a really nice person, down-to-earth.”
Students in the class drew names of people they had to invite to the school to be guest speakers for an assignment.
Alexis said they kept their email to Ducey’s staff members “short and simple,” saying they wanted to know “what his life is like.”
Mea, 18, of Ahwatukee, was also thrilled Ducey accepted their invitation. “We’re the first group out of all the groups to get him to come here,” she said. “I was proud.”
Raquel, 17, of Maricopa, said Ducey “definitely helps with our education.”
“I think it was great,” she added. “I like how he explained himself in detail.”
Students in the U.S./Arizona
See DUCEY on page 13
(Colleen Sparks/AFN Staff)
Mountain Pointe High School senior Jose Salazar-Limon, left, and junior Sebastian Murillo Salazar, prepare dinner rolls in their culinary arts class as Gov. Ducey samples his first ioced latte.
DUCEY
from page 12
government class asked Ducey what he likes and dislikes about being governor, what motivated him to run for governor and if he missed being involved in a private business. Ducey is the former CEO of Cold Stone Creamery.
“The best part about being governor is there is no routine,” he told students. “You can work on what you want to work on.
“The good part is that each day you can go out and do a lot of good things,” Ducey added. “The tough things are when there’s bad news and tragedy.”
The governor told students he ran for governor “on a platform of improving K-12 education” and boosting the economy.
When asked if he missed working on his private business, he said he could always return to that once he leaves office.
“I always say, I really love this job, but I don’t think it’s something you should do your whole life,” Ducey said. “Everything I’m doing every day in this office I learned to do running a business.”
U.S./Arizona government teacher Waddell said he was “very proud” of his students for how they interacted with Ducey.
“To have the governor come in was quite an honor,” Waddell said.
Guest speakers in the past have included federal judges and U.S. Senator John McCain.
Ducey asked many students what they planned to do after they graduated, and many said they would attend universities
and colleges in Arizona and out-of-state.
Mountain Pointe junior Sebastian Murillo Salazar, 17, and senior Jose Salazar-Limon, 17, were excited after showing Ducey the dinner rolls they were making in a culinary arts class.
“It was incredible,” Sebastian said. “I didn’t have words.”
“I was nervous,” he said.
Mountain Pointe seniors Carrie Greeney and Chance Burback showed Ducey a robot they were programming to pick up foam balls in their engineering class. Chance was excited to meet the governor, who also talked to students in the after-school robotics club.
“I loved it,” Chance said. “I think it’s great he’s interested in what’s going on in the school system.”
Engineering teacher Melissa Wendell said it was great validation for the students to present their work to Ducey.
“The fact that our class is able to meet with the governor, it’s huge and they were so excited to show off what they do,” Wendell said.
Ducey gave Mountain Pointe high marks.
“It was a great experience,” he said. “What I saw here at Mountain Pointe was really excellence personified.”
Mountain Pointe Principal Bruce Kipper said he was glad Ducey saw students who are strong academically and learning career skills in the school’s strong career and technical education classes.
“We really wanted him to see what a large, public high school is all about,” Kipper said. “The kids were very engaging with him. I actually thought he was really genuine; he seemed really interested in what the kids had to say.”
(Colleen Sparks/AFN Staff)
Governor Doug Ducey talks to Mountain Pointe High School seniors Carrie Greeney and Chance Burback about a robot they made and programmed in their engineering class.
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FLAG
from page 1
Unite Day.’”
Lisa said that initially she didn’t know the cause of the fire, and wondered if an outside solar light had caused it. When she phoned to ask Phoenix Police if they could determine the cause, she said the officer on the line said, “We’re not going to send a CSI team out there to investigate it.”
Eventually, she added, a detective came out, but the Ellisons weren’t home. “I was pleasantly surprised someone came out. I thought that was so sweet that they sent someone out,” she said.
The Ellisons eventually discovered charred paper in the debris on their driveway, and figured someone set the flag on fire overnight.
Ironically, her next-door neighbor also had a flag out, but it was not touched. “They have a truck parked underneath it in the driveway, so maybe it was a conscientious hoodlum.”
Still, Ellison said that beyond the desecration, she was concerned because there were high winds most of Wednesday night and that they could easily have made the fire far worse.
“We’re so thankful the high winds we had that evening didn’t set our house on fire,” she said.
Reaction to the flag burning was furious on social media.
Several people posted the reaction of
Brian Ellison, who had said, “Just because it’s your right doesn’t make it right.”
City Councilman Sal DiCiccio wrote, “This insanity has gone too far taking rights away from others. This is disgusting on all levels.”
Lisa said, “Several people have told us they’re going out to buy flags.”
She said she also had received calls from numerous friends back in the Southeast because several TV stations across the country carried a report of the flag burning.
The Ellisons moved to Ahwatukee last year from Tennessee.
One woman posted that she was not only going out to buy an American Flag, but also was buying a Marine Corps flag as well.
Lisa said their two grown sons called to find out how their father was reacting.
“They knew their daddy was ready to whoop someone if he could find them,” she said.
Lisa said she hasn’t heard how her plea for a community-wide display of the flag had impacted Ahwatukee.
“When we first moved here, no one in the neighborhood had a flag up. Brian put one up when we moved in and within a matter of weeks, lots of people in the neighborhood started to put one out,” she said.
As for replacing the Ellisons’ destroyed flag, a replacement was up within minutes.
(Special to AFN)
Little but ashes remained from the flag burned outside the Ahwatukee home of U.S. Marine Brian Ellison and his wife Lisa.
Wolfgang’s
Always
I
Chaos ensues when parents, kids overbook their calendar
BY SHELLEY GILLESPIE AFN Contributor
“Ilike baseball,” exclaimed Nathan Wade, 10, a smile encompassing his entire face.
When he was 7, Nathan had a very full schedule, participating in basketball, soccer and karate, in addition to baseball.
With his parents, Nathan made decisions about his time and what activities he would enjoy, in addition to his studies at Shumway Leadership Academy in the Chandler School District. Mimi and Michael Wade, and Nathan plus his three siblings, “Team Wade,” work out their schedules.
Mimi serves on the National Little League board in Chandler. Little League requires weekly meetings during baseball season, but at least monthly in the offseason.
“I take the kids with me to the Little League events to learn that volunteering is good and that everything doesn’t magically happen, but takes work,” she said.
With four children, and only two of them in school full time, Mimi’s time is at a premium. Her husband, Michael, works full time as a credit union manager. His family time can be squeezed, but he helps with math and reads to the children. On Sundays, they all take a breather, sometimes relaxing by watching movies. Her extended
family helps out when their schedules are pinched and kids are sick.
Although she likes the “busy-ness,” Mimi admits that she doesn’t get a lot of time to herself and that date nights with Michael are occasional.
Roxanna Teeling, a licensed master social worker, provides psychotherapy services specializing in childhood trauma, teens, women and “safe haven therapy.” When families don’t handle the stress of busy schedules and expectations collide, she provides a place where the issues can be examined and problems solved.
“Children don’t want to disappoint their parents,” Teeling said, “and parents don’t want to be judged and seen as a bad parent. If parents don’t perceive that they are providing enough opportunities for their children, they fear other people’s judgment.”
She said competitive parenting with children pushed to be ready for “Yale by eighth grade” can create a driven agenda. Children have little down time to experience a normal childhood. When families see her, the oversubscribed children’s agendas are often the focus. Children are depressed, not sleeping well and anxious.
Teeling explores what is causing the problems, often discovering that the children aren’t enjoying their many activities. The children don’t want to
(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Staff Photographer)
disappoint their parents, but when they just can’t muster enthusiasm, don’t sleep well and schoolwork suffers, new approaches are suggested.
“Opening the lines of honest communication, creating a new schedule and working out compromises are needed,” Teeling said. Ironing out family situations can take months.
Children need to feel “They are OK and accepted for who they are,” Teeling said.
The Williams family has already faced the overscheduling issues with Zereoue, 14, who attends Kyrene’s Akimel A-Al Middle School, and Eriq, 15, a sophomore at Tempe Union’s Mountain Pointe High.
Kim Williams, a Maricopa special ed teacher, needed to convince Zereoue to say “no.” He is currently focusing on basketball, but is on the track and football teams, the student council, vice president of Akimel Middle School and the National Junior Honor Society. He also takes advanced language arts and math classes.
She relies on carpools with friends to keep her sons on time at events. With
her husband, Rick, away for extended work projects, she handles the scheduling. She balances their lives with family time, personal time and rare “mental health days.”
“Sometimes we need to refocus,” Williams said.
And Zereoue and Eriq know if life gets too crowded, she’ll work with them to decide what they’re willing to give up. Eriq recently started track after being recruited by a school coach. Football is his other activity.
“Eriq’s more a homebody who likes video games, watching TV, especially ‘Scorpion.’ He takes advanced math classes,” Williams said.
Williams tempers her sons’ activities because she was the one who needed to say no earlier in her life. She was exhausted.
The Wade and Williams families are working with their children to make manageable schedules. Both moms want more time to themselves and date nights with their spouses.
Laughing, Mimi Wade said, “I alerted my husband that I’d be sleeping more during the day when the kids are all in school.”
For more information, contact Roxanna Teeling, licensed master social worker, at roxannareid.com or therapy@roxannareid.com
Signs your child is overscheduled
According to psychotherapist Roxanne Teeling, if parents pay attention, they will notice signs that their child has too many activities in his or her life. “Children don’t want to disappoint their parents,” said Teeling, so they will often hang on, trying to complete everything in their schedule. Here are signs to watch for:
• Anxiety. The child might be afraid to tell the parent(s) that they are overwhelmed and just can’t cope.
• Poor sleep. Restless, sleepless nights could interfere with a child’s major teenage growth spurt.
• Problems with studies. When the activities interfere with school success, it’s time to examine priorities.
• Sadness. If the child is not happy and nothing they do brings them joy, it’s time to ask questions and find out what needs fixing.
• Depression. A child could be depressed and, to the extreme, it could be clinical depression. This is a serious condition and needs attention.
Some coping mechanisms are not fully developed in children, so it’s difficult for children to sort out priorities. Peers can create additional pressure.
Parents should discuss the situation with their child and really listen. “I’m right and you’re wrong” should not be the attitude on the part of the parent, Teeling said.
Are parents demanding that their child meet the parents’ expectations without asking what the child can handle and enjoys? Does the child really need to be in every sport?
A helpful approach on the part of the parent is “If there’s a problem, let’s fix it,” Teeling said. And, to assure the child that they are loved and accepted for who they are.
If the parents and child cannot develop a dialogue where the parent can determine what is wrong, an outside party might need to help, she said.
Ahwatukee dogs have their day
Clockwise from upper left: Ahwatukee Dog Show contestants included: Astro; Pfister; unidentified poodle; best-ofshow winner Penni and owner Kim Holsclaw; Maggi, a mini Daschund; best-dressed winner Miss Phoenix; Max kissing owner Jeff Klein; a running Corgi named Aba; Penny, the winner of the Cutest Dog award; and Arrow, pictured as he grabbed a fly ball.
PHOTOS BY DIANNE ROSS/AFN CONTRIBUTOR
Ahwatukee dad runs baseball league for special-needs children
BY DAVID M. BROWN AFN Contributor
Chris Kelly is a champion for special needs children and their families – and takes to the baseball diamond to express it.
Since 2004, he has lived in Ahwatukee with his wife of 25 years, Tonya, and their three children, Sam, Kate and Jack. Sam, 21, the eldest, was diagnosed with autism at 4 and will graduate this year from Desert Vista High School.
“The school has been amazing, and his teachers have gone above and beyond to make Sam’s high school years something we’ll treasure,” said Kelly, an executive with Bank of America’s wealth division, US Trust. Kate, 16, is also at
Desert Vista, and Jack, 14, will attend Valley Christian High School next year.
The family, in turn, has served the community. Five years ago, they started The Champions League, a baseball league now with 40 children, 5 and up, with disabilities of all types. The teams play five games each in spring and fall.
“Mentor teams also come out and help as ‘on-field buddies,’ to help build a bridge between the community and the special needs community,” Kelly said.
Last year, State Farm Insurance granted $25,000 so that the league can expand to other cities.
“There is no better moment than seeing a mom and dad leaning up against
the fence as they watch their child walk onto a baseball field for the first time,” he said. “Many parents gave up hope of seeing their child wear a baseball uniform. We get to help give them that moment.”
Kelly got involved not long after he attended a breakfast for the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center, a Phoenix-based nonprofit dedicated to autism research, education, evidence-based treatment and community outreach.
“I was blown away when I walked into the room at the Biltmore, with hundreds of people who cared about helping make life better for families with autism,” he said. “It brought me to
Preschoolers can now get techy
BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA
AFN Contributor
STEM - an acronym for science, technology, engineering and math that was originated by the National Science Foundation – isn’t often a subject for preschoolers, but a new Chandler school is changing that.
The New World Learning Academy, slated to start classes in August, is introducing the community to Stem Fest, a free event open to all ages on Saturday, April 8.
The 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. festival, held on the school grounds and inside in their still-under-renovation school site at 900 E. Pecos Road, has a plethora of STEMbased activities that, said school founder Tracie Younce.
She said the fest aims to illustrate just how exciting science, technology, engineering and science can be.
“I wanted to do something fun for all ages so they can understand STEM isn’t intimidating,” said Younce, a former benefits consultant with Fortune 500 companies who changed careers to become a preschool teacher when her two children, Sydney, 9 and Michael, 6, entered school.
“And as a Girl Scouts leader for five years, I’ve realized there’s a lot of buzz about girls getting involved in STEM” she continued, adding:
“Waiting to introduce STEM until the middle of elementary school is too late. Many children, especially girls and minorities, will have lost interest or may
become intimidated by math or science by that time.”
“I want parents to realize that children developing skills early, will benefit them greatly all their lives.”
Demonstrations of various STEM programs will be grouped according to age categories, designed and implemented by area Girl Scout troops.
Among the hands-on activities will be demonstrations of technology programs for kids by Future Kiddie, a Chandlerbased computer training business owned by Ken Chan.
“My kids were in one of his classes a couple years ago, and he’s been so helping me in many ways, including providing my classrooms with computers,” said Younce.
Other all-ages demonstrations include science experiments with Kodable and Code.org, bridge engineering, a Michelangelo drawing station and Magic Milk that introduces children to chemical reactions and colors.
There will also be New World Learning Academy informational tables for parents interested in registering their preschoolers, ages 3 to 6, for the 20172018 academic year, and signing up for KidQuest Summer Camp sessions that serve children ages 3 to 7
Outdoor games, a photo booth, snacks, prize drawings and other activities round out the four-hour festival.
The STEM Fest is quite the undertaking for Younce who is still overseeing her nascent school’s renovation. And yet, she
tears and confirmed that we had found a great community and home.” He added: “I travel a lot for Bank of America, visiting some of the greatest cities in the world. The best part of every trip is coming home to the beautiful Ahwatukee Foothills. I’ve seen a lot of towns, but there is no place I’d rather live to raise my family.”
Sam has offered them a unique perspective on others and themselves, Kelly said, noting:
“One of the earliest challenges for us was learning to be open to receiving help from others. We have met incredible teachers, doctors, care providers and neighbors who have extended every ef-
remains enthused at seeing her vision evolve.
“At the private school where I taught, I saw that they did a great job teaching STEM to older kids, but they did not offer STEM for the younger ones,” she said.
“I knew there was a lot more those kids could do so I threw in some science, and I saw their little faces light up. They were so interested!”
This was the epiphany moment for her. Along with her husband Adam Younce, a techie with Hitachi Solutions, she began formulating a plan to introduce STEM to preschoolers.
It has become a passion.
“Our country’s ability to improve and thrive with a modern workforce relies upon giving our kids a solid foundation in math and science,” said Younce.
“Introducing STEM at an early age, while kids are fascinated by everything around them, instills a curiosity and love of learning that will stay with them throughout their lives. I wanted to create a school that gets young children excited about these subjects, and I want to make sure this is done 100 percent the way I envision it.”
The KidQuest summer camps are week-long, themed programs that begin June 5 and continue through July 21.
All day programs ($200) are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and half day programs ($120) run from 9 a.m. to noon. Before and after-school care is available. With themes like Under the Sea, Super Heroes and ‘Stars and Stripes, Younce said even while having fun, children will be learning.
“Each unique weekly camp for children three to seven includes reading, writing, math skills, motivation in creative thinking and problem solving skills with our advanced curriculum embedded in each themed week,” she said.
Information: NWLAcademy.com.
(Special to AFN)
Jasheen Puri, left, and Chloe Sofka are students at New World Learning Academy in Chandler, which will have a special festival Saturday, April 8, to show of its commitment to teaching preschoolers about science, technology, engineering and math at an early age.
BASEBALL
fort to help our son through each step of his journey.”
Bank of America has supportive workplace benefits and resources, some specifically for employees with autistic family members.
“I’ve got friends, colleagues and leaders at the bank who understand when I need the flexibility to be there for Sam, and I appreciate that immensely,” Kelly said.
For instance, in 2015, company health benefits expanded to cover autism-related treatments, providing access to nurses, dieticians and behavioral health experts.
In addition, the bank also has talent acquisition teams committed to disability hiring and a team of 300 associates with cognitive and development disabilities working on graphic arts, letter mailing, manual assembly and distribution services.
And, employees receive two hours of weekly paid leave to volunteer to causes of their choice.
Bank associates can also join the com-
pany’s Disability Advocacy Network to learn how to support employees with disabilities as well as family, friends and customers, including children with learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s and Eldercare and diabetes. The network has 5,200 members in Bank of America and approximately 380 in Phoenix.
“I was most proud of Bank of America when our family was recently asked to carry the torch for the Special Olympics through downtown Phoenix,” he said, noting that the bank has partnered with the organization for 30 years. “In a way, I feel like Sam and others with special needs are shining a light to help our community to become a better place.”
Others are helping, too.
The state of Arizona provides 30 hours of weekly respite care, giving extra help at the house for Sam. “This is an incredible resource that not every state offers,” he said.
Sam loves fireworks, so the owner of Chandler-based Arizona Fireworks Productions has helped him become a pyro technician. He also loves hot air
balloons, and Hot Air Expeditions Phoenix has also made him feel particularly welcome.
“This kind of support from the business community is critical to Sam and others like him,” Kelly said.
He noted that more than 90 percent of employable people with special needs are unemployed.
“These are human beings who want purpose and to be able to pursue their passions, just like you and I,” he said.
Sam teaches them.
“I’ve learned that sometimes in life you are a giver and sometimes you are a receiver,” Kelly said, “and that there is more beauty in life in being both.”
Platelets can form blood clots in smokers, sedentary people
BY AGNES OBLAS AFN Guest Writer
Life depends on platelets. Without platelets, death could ensue from something as insignificant as a paper cut. When skin is broken, platelets sense the abnormal outflow of blood and begin to pile up at the site in a sticky clump.
Think of the little Dutch boy who stuck his thumb in a dike to staunch a leak. This action of platelets automatically sets off a cascade of other clotting factors whose end result is a clot and the cessation of blood loss.
Platelets can also respond to microscopic disruptions within the linings of blood vessels. The same cascade of events is set into motion and a clot is formed within that vessel.
This type of clot forms at the wrong time and at the wrong place, creating an unhealthy or even life-threatening situation. If this clot dislodges and enters the general circulation, it is called an embolus. It flows through the circulatory
system until it comes upon a narrower vessel through which it can’t pass.
Lodged in the blood vessel, it now becomes a thrombus. The body part on the other side of the thrombus is deprived of circulation and the extent of the risk and/or injury depends upon the body part involved.
An embolism and thrombus to the heart or brain could be catastrophic. A thrombus in the calf muscle – while potentially quite serious – is at least not catastrophic.
Clots in arteries deprive tissues and organs of oxygen. Clots in veins are deadly when they break off and enter the venous circulation and will end up in the lung.
Mother Nature was quite clever in her placement of arteries and veins within the circulatory system. Arteries are generally found deeper within the body, where they presumably are protected; veins are in layers closer to the surface. The main causes of clots at the wrong time and wrong place are smoking and inactivity.
People who smoke are so much more
at risk for clot formation in the legs, which is painful enough but lethal if it makes its way to the lungs. Blood that “pools” gets sticky; that’s why sitting for prolonged periods could be risky. Whether you are sitting on an airplane or at a desk, get up and move.
If you haven’t already quit smoking and begun an exercise program, now might be the time to re-consider. – Agnes Oblas,
Bargains were plentiful at St. Benedict’s Parish rummage sale
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A native to Arizona, he completed his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University and Brigham Young University. He went on to receive his Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from A.T. Still University.
Ty has completed a fellowship training program in Emergency Medicine and has also devoted time in primary practice working with underserved refugees. Ty is a compassionate provider who enjoys building lasting relationships with his patients and is committed to providing the highest quality of care.
In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, exercising, and playing golf. Call today to schedule your appointment with Ty!
BY KELLY ATHENA AFN Contributor
Some people go to find clothes and household items, some go to supplement their income, some go to make a living.
No one knows what they’ll find. It’s like treasure hunting. No matter what, everyone loves a bargain, and a church rummage sale is the most likely place to find a wide selection of bargains in one place.
Luis Rodriguez, of our neighboring state of Sonora, drives to Phoenix twice a month to pick out quality used goods for his resale business in Mexico. He was there before the gates opened at a recent rummage sale held recently by St. Benedict’s Parish at St. John Bosco School in Ahwatukee.
He used one of the big wagons provided for shoppers to carry his selections: camping gear, sports equipment, tables, shoes and clothes. He squeezed his items into his truck as tightly as possible before moving on to more garage sales.
Then he drove the six-hour trip back to Hermosillo. The locals there will be happy to pay pre-owned prices for things they could otherwise not afford.
St. Benedict’s Pastor Bob Binta. “I love my new country.”
Pastor Bob mingled with the shoppers, sporting a bright orange Suns Jersey emblazoned across the back with “Father Bob.”
He warmly greeted everyone he saw. I was saddened when he described his battle with stage-four lung cancer to me, quite a surprise to him since he has never smoked.
Hali Outhred, another Tukee resident, found shoes, blouses, a dress, sweater, Ann Taylor jacket, glass pitcher, umbrella, Japanese parasol for stylish sun protection, like-new leather backpack/purse, two pairs of reading glasses, five towels and two silk scarves. All for $13.
“I’ve had a great time. I just love everything I got. I’ve never seen such a huge amount of stuff at one sale,” she said in her charming Aussie accent.
Rhonda Morrison, the owner of Ahwatukee Music, was there buying supplies for her business and a few household items.
One avid E-bay seller found a vintage wooden train for $5 and sold it online for $100 that afternoon.
Eileen Sipes, of the Ahwatukee Foothills, shops at the rummage sale at St. John Bosco School every year. She enjoys the plentiful selection of clothes, costumes, and household goods.
I fared well at the rummage sale also, finding two pairs of sneakers, a sun hat, cloth paints for my scarf-making habit, two ornate vases, an unused large wallet that will perhaps keep me more organized, a stainless steel wastebasket with foot pedal and self-closing lid, a silk handkerchief to add to my collection of tree-saving hankies (no paper tissues needed), new socks, a belt, and work gloves (can’t get enough with my gardening hobby). Total bill: $17. See you around the neighborhood!
Among the volunteers was Flavia Bamuhiiga, who moved from Fort Portal, Uganda, to Ahwatukee last year and is working full-time as a nurse.
“My uncle, Father Bob, sponsored me in coming to America,” she said, referring to
– Contact garagesalegirl@kellyathena.com with news on upcoming garage sales or other sustainable events.
(Kelly Athena/Special to AFN)
Eileen Sipes searches for clothing bargains at the recent rummage sale that St. Benedict's Parish had at St. John Bosco Catholic School in Ahwatukee.
Ahwatukee visual artists show their work in Kyrene show
BY COLLEEN SPARKS AFN Contributor
Self-expression in the form of colorful paintings, drawings and 3-D creations will be celebrated in an art show where Ahwatukee Foothills students are wellrepresented.
The Kyrene District Art Show will feature artwork from about 1,000 students in grades kindergarten through eighth who attend the Kyrene School District’s 25 schools at the district office, 8700 S. Kyrene Road in Tempe.
A celebration night, where families and the public can mingle with the young artists, see the artwork, eat food from several vendors and hear district Superintendent Jan Vesely speak, will be at the district office 4-7 p.m. today, April 5.
People can also check out the students’ artwork on display any time between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. through April 6 at the district office.
different forms of art the show will feature, said Cassidy Parker-Anders, a visual arts teacher on special assignment.
Parker-Anders, who is also an art teacher at Kyrene de la Estrella and Kyrene de la Sierra elementary schools, is
About 500 students who attend schools in Ahwatukee are showing their pieces.
Paintings, drawings, prints, photos, mimbres or painted gourds, plaster masks and ceramics are among the many
organizing the art show with Jen Pooler, a Kyrene de la Paloma Elementary School art teacher.
“For the last almost 10 years I’ve been only at Ahwatukee schools,” in the Kyrene district, Parker-Anders said. “We just have such talented kids and we have a lot of opportunities in our community and with the district for students to participate in fine arts.”
“We get a lot of parent support,” she added. “The arts are very important and Kyrene is one of the few districts that really has a strong visual arts program.”
Kyrene district students in grades K-5 take art class once a week all school year. Students in the district’s middle schools can take various elective classes, including visual arts, a semester-long class that meets Monday through Friday.
Parker-Anders said art teachers chose the artwork for the show based on the students’ skill, behavior and participation in art classes.
“It’s almost like the artwork chooses itself,” she said. “They get very excited.
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(Cassidy Parker-Anders/Special to AFN)
Bianca Rivera, 10, an Ahwatukee fifth-grader at Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary School, shows her purple flower.
(Cassidy Parker-Anders/Special to AFN)
Estrella Elementary second-grader Mila Kaye, 8, is proud of her pagoda.
Inspire Montessori plans summer reading, math camps
AFN NEWS STAFF
Inspire Kids Montessori will be offering new “boot camps” this summer on reading and math for ages 5-7 that feature hands-on instruction based on the principles of Maria Montessori.
“A good foundation in reading and math is needed for children to do well in school throughout their lives,” said school founder-executive director Diana Darmawaskita, adding:
“We see year after year how our students benefit from our programs and teaching philosophy. When our graduates enter first grade in public, charter or private school, they are completely ready to transition and excel.”
Inspire Kids touts high-quality early education programs for ages 6 weeks –6 years. The new boot camps will run Monday-Friday from June 26 to July 21. All-day and half-day programs will be available. The camp registration deadline is May 15.
The Reading Boot Camp will focus on vocabulary, sounds, letters, words and sentences using materials in a specific
sequence to engage the child’s mastery of language. The program also incorporates the findings of research into brain development.
The Math Boot Camp will utilize Simultaneous Multisensory Instruction, whi0ch addresses different learning styles and teaches children how to discover and understand concepts including addition, subtraction, multiplication, time and money and shapes and attributes.
“The Montessori Mathematics curriculum is an amazing system that is highly successful and incredibly well-designed,” said Veronique Bevali, the school’s director. “It consists of hands-on learning materials, detailed lessons, teaches how to apply math in real life and provides children with a higher level of understanding of the subject. Students learn to grasp concepts and not just memorize numbers.”
Darmawaskita noted: “Brain research shows that the sensitive period for language development starts before birth and that spontaneous interest and capacity for writing and reading is 4.5 – 6
years. The same is true of math. Children who are exposed to these concepts early on learn to process concepts like order and coordination far more easily later on.”
Inspire Kids utilizes Terra Nova, a norm-reference nationally standardized achievement test, to monitor their student’s progress regularly.
“Our graduates test at reading at a 2.3-grade equivalent (2 years, 3 months) and test at second-grade level in math,” Bevali said. “This is especially important in that, according to AZMerit 2016 testing, only 41 percent of Arizona students passed in reading and only 46 percent passed in math.”
The Inspire Kids curriculum is based on the principals of an Italian physician who created an innovative approach to education after having great success with teaching developmentally disabled children in 1900.
An open house will be held at the school, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ah-
watukee, 9-11 a./m. Friday, April 9. Information: 480-659-9402, info@inspirekidsmontessori.com or inspirekidsmontessori.com
Ahwatukee Foothills
(Special
National nitrous oxide shortage may impact dental patients
BY DR. RASHMI BHATNAGAR AFN Guest Writer
Ahwatukee dental patients may soon be disappointed when their dental office runs out of nitrous oxide supply.
The Federal Drug Administration in January announced a national shortage of nitrous oxide, a colorless gas that, when inhaled with oxygen, provides a feeling of relaxation and euphoria.
Dental patients often request nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation as an option to help reduce anxiety during routine and invasive dental procedures. An American Dental Association (ADA) survey reports 70 percent of any dental office utilizing sedation offers nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation as an option for their patients.
Nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation also is used by many other medical fields to manage patients undergoing minor outpatient procedures.
The FDA anticipated a return of supply to normal limits by mid-February; however, the FDA shortage status remains low.
Nitrous oxide gas is produced and supplied by two manufacturing plants in United States. In August 2016, an explosion of an Airgas Co. facility in Cantonment, Florida, ended production.
This drastically impacted the national supply. The company is prioritizing the
ARTISTS
from page 23
“It’s increasing their self-esteem and their pride in their work.”
Bianca Rivera, 10, an Ahwatukee fifthgrader at Kyrene de la Sierra Elementary School, is excited her picture of a purple flower she created with oil pastels will be on display at the art show. Art is her favorite class.
“Art is something that you can express your emotions with,” Rivera said. “I want to become a doctor and an artist.”
Bianca’s mother, Maria Rivera, said she is “really ecstatic” her daughter’s work will be in the show.
“We instill in her to pursue all of her interests in art,” Maria Rivera said. “You can find drawings and paintings and pictures throughout the house.”
Kyrene de la Estrella Elementary
medical customers; however, the dental industry is falling secondary due to the elective nature of the need.
Currently, some dental offices in the Phoenix area are using their last nitrous oxide tanks until local suppliers resume their normal stock.
Some alternatives to nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation to aid patients in feeling more comfortable during dental procedures include oral sedation medications such as valium and Ativan, or the intravenous introduction of sedatives.
The benefit of the nitrous sedation over some of the other types is that its effects are reversed within 5 to 10 minutes after discontinuing the application.
The other types of sedation may have effects lasting hours after exposure and limit the ability to perform regular activities.
Nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation is still patients’ first request for anti-anxiety management in the dental office.
– Dr. Rashmi (Rush) Bhatnagar, DMD, MPH, is an Ahwatukee dentist and can be reached at 480-598-5900 or BellaVistaDentalCare.com.
School second-grader Mila Kaye, 8, of Ahwatukee, used oil pastels to create a picture of a Chinese pagoda or building. She’s also thrilled her work will be on display in the show.
“It feels awesome,” Kaye said. “It feels like my work paid off. I like that when you have a piece of paper and a pencil you can draw whatever in the world you want.”
Her mother, Megan Kaye, is excited her daughter’s work was chosen for the show.
“I think it’s really important for them to be able to express their creativity and use their imagination and learn a little bit of history into it,” Megan Kaye said.
The district’s art show has been held for nearly 20 years.
AROUND AHWATUKEE
Kyrene
Husband-wife law team offer community carnival on Sunday
Mark and Alexis Breyer, the Husband and Wife Law Team, are hosting a Spring Carnival 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, April 9, at their offices, 3840 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee.
The couple, who live in Ahwatukee, have been representing the seriously injured in Arizona since 1996.
The free family event aims “to bring the community together and enjoy our beautiful Arizona weather for an afternoon,” Breyer Law Offices said.
It will include carnival games, bounce houses, prizes, swag bags, face painting, clowns and food trucks. The food trucks include Burgers Amore, Cactus Corn, Cheese Love & Happiness and Mustache Pretzels. A live DJ and dancing also will be provided.
Desert Foothills Methodist slates
‘Care
for the Caregiver’
Caregivers often feel stressed and tired, forgetting or feeling guilty about taking care of themselves. Desert Foothills United Methodist Church’s Stephen Ministry will present a panel of area agency professionals to help caregivers focus on their physical, emotional and spiritual needs while taking care of others.
The panel includes: Scott Hawthornwaite from the Area Agency on Aging, Cindy Findley of the Arizona Caregiver’s Coalition, Sandra Brinkley, registered nurse and the Rev. Dr. Kristin Hansen, Pastor of Desert Foothills Methodist.
The panel is at 7 p.m. Monday, May 1, at Desert Foothills United Methodist Church, 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. RSVP is required: 48o-460-1025 or office@desertfoothills.org.
Foothills
Montessori slates 8-week summer camp
Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, is offering a “fun, interactive and handson” summer camp for children age 3-8 for eight weeks from May 30 through July 21 with a different theme each week.
Campers will participate in theme-related activities, crafts and games each week and enjoy Water Day every Friday. Themes are related to Spanish and art activities and special events such as puppet shows and magic shows are scheduled throughout the summer.
Campers do not need to be enrolled in the regular school program and can sign up for weekly sessions or just for a few days a week. Space is limited.
Information: 480-759-3810.
Foundation needs dresses for eighth
grade girls' graduation
The Kyrene Foundation is asking the community for help in providing donations for its Wishes Come True drive. Not every eighth-grade student can afford a one-time dress for a special occasion, such as an eighth grade promotion ceremony.
To help meet this need, the Kyrene Foundation is collecting gently used dresses for eighth grade girls in need for upcoming promotion ceremonies.
New or like-new attire that is appropriate, such as semi-formal dresses, can be donated through April 27 at the Kyrene School District Office, 8700 S. Kyrene Road, Tempe, or the Kyrene Family Resource Center, 1330 E. Dava Drive, Tempe. Volunteers are needed for the April 29 dress selection. Information: tward@kyrene.org or signup. com/go/gFJURS.
Dance, muscle mania classes slate at Pecos Community Center
Cardio fitness made fun by dancing and muscle mania classes will be led by local instructor Carrie McNeish in April, starting next week at Pecos Community Center at various times in the day and evening.
Six-week beginning and intermediate/advanced line dancing classes that do not require a partner are at 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 11:15 a.m. an 12:15 p.m., respectively, on Thursdays. Register in person or at phoenix.gov/PARKS.
McNeish’s muscle mania class is an 18-week program on Mondays and Wednesdays. Register: phoenix.gov/ PARKS.
“Drop In” class options also are available for both subjects. Information: 480-221-9090, cmcneish@cox.net, or dancemeetsfitness.net.
Church moves popular Easter egg hunt to Chandler Saturday
New Heights Church has announced that its annual free Easter egg hunt has outgrown all the Ahwatukee parks it used to use.
So it is moving its 10 a.m. Saturday, April 8, hunt for kids 2 years old through fifth grade to the football field of Valley Christian High School, 6900 W. Galveston St., Chandler.
Besides 15,000 eggs, the hunt will have inflatables and characters for kids to be photographed with, along with free popsicles and other treats.
Information: kiddsegghunt.com
Chiropractor sets raffle for special chair to aid Ahwatukee baby
How would you like to spend $20 on a raffle ticket for a $3,300 therapeutic chair and help 5-month-old Ahwatukee baby girl who is struggling to stay alive?
Ahwatukee chiropractor
Cameron Call has just the raffle ticket.
He’s selling raffle tickets for $20 to win a zero-gravity chair designed in the U.S. by Human Touch.
“They are called the perfect chair for a reason,” Call said. “They were designed to be the perfect chair for someone with chronic neck pain, back pain, and circulation problems.”
Call, whose practice, The Specific Chiropractic Center at 4425 E. Agave Road, Ahwatukee, uses the chairs for his clients.
But even if you don’t think you need the chair, he’s hoping you’ll want to help a baby.
“She had her first open heart surgery at 2 weeks old and lived at the hospital for 41 days after she was born,” Call said. “Her second open heart surgery is scheduled for the end of April. Her heart will never be ‘fixed’ and a transplant may end
up being in her future too.
“I want to bring the community together and raise some money to help June and her parents during this difficult time – both financially, and emotionally,” Call added.
Call said he has 170 tickets for sale and will raffle off the chair when they sell out.
Tickets can be purchased in his office, by PayPal, or by contacting Call at cameron@thespecific.com or 602-753-7782 with how many tickets you’d like.
Information about the chair: humantouch.com/pc610
Winning combo
(Dianne Ross/Special to AFN) Mason and Summer Ross hold their children, from left, June, Augustine and Nora.
(Howard Fischer/Capitol Media Service)
SATURDAY, APRIL 8
Teen Easter party set
Learn some cool egg decorating techniques and also enjoy Smash Brothers, bracelet making and a fine selection of Easter candy.
Details>> 3-4:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Free, no registration required. For teens ages 12-18.
SATURDAY, APRIL 15
Annual Easter Parade rolling
The 41st annual Ahwatukee Easter Parade, presented by the Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club, will be marching through the community.
Details>> 10 a.m. The parade will go down 48th Street from Warner Road to Elliot Road and will be followed by the annual Spring Carnival/Craft Fair.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19
Legion hosts hospice speaker
American Legion Post 64 of Ahwatukee community is hosting a free public education program featuring Hospice of the Valley’s Lin Sue Cooney. “We offer so much more than end of life care,” said Cooney. “We provide all sorts of expertise in dementia, have a thriving volunteer program, pet therapy and music. We also have a wonderful program called Saluting Our Veterans which I will definitely discuss.”
Details>> 3 p.m., Ahwatukee Recreation Center, 5001 E. Cheyenne Drive, Ahwatukee. Information: Ed Mangan, USAF Captain (former), Post 64 Commander, emangan3@aol.com 602-501-0128.
Thursday, April 20
Peter Longo discusses golf
“The Evolution of the Golf Swing” is the title of a presentation by PGA life member, trick shot artist and golf historian Peter Longo. He will present a fun filled, dynamic seminar of golf swings from then until now. He will also demonstrate a few trick shots.
Details>> 6:30-7:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Free, no registration required.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29
Winetasting fest slated
The Winetasting Festival that helps support Ahwatukee’s annual Festival of Lights show along Chandler Boulevard will be held. Tickets are going on sale soon.
Details>> 6:30-10:30 pm., Rawhide in Chandler. Ticket info: folaz.org/winetasting-festival,
ONGOING
Congregation plans Israel trip
Congregation NefeshSoul is planning a tour of Israel June 10-20, 2017. Explore historical sites along with the beauty and rich culture of Israel.
Details>> Rabbi Susan Schanerman at rabbi@nefeshsoul. org.
SUNDAYS
‘TinkerTime’ open for kids
A makerspace for children to design, experiment, and invent as they explore hands-on STEAM activities through self-guided tinkering.
Details>> 1-4 p.m. every Sunday, Ironwood Library 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Ages 6-11. Free; No registration required.
MONDAYS
Chamber offers networking
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce
CALENDAR
networking and leads group is open to chamber members. Details>> Noon, Native Grill and Wings, 5030 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.
TUESDAYS
Chair yoga featured
Inner Vision Yoga Studio offers chair yoga to help seniors and people recovering from injuries to stay fit.
Details>> 1:30-2:30 p.m., 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. $5 per class. Information: donna@innervisionyoga.com or 480-330-2015.
Toastmasters sharpen skills
Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings
Details>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.
Power Partners available
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members. Details>> 8-9 a.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee. Dorothy Abril, 480-753-7676.
WEDNESDAYS
Watercolor classes available
Watercolor classes that teach both bold and beautiful as well as soft and subtle approaches to the art are available twice a week for beginners and intermediate students who are at least 15 years old. Step-by-step instruction and personal help are provided.
Details>> 2:30-5 Wednesdays and 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays at Hobby Lobby, 46th Street and Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Cost: $25 per class, $80 for four classes. Registration required: jlokits@yahoo.com or 480-471-8505.
Montessori holds open house
Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori holds an open house weekly. It includes a short talk about Montessori education, followed by a tour of its campus.
Details>> 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-759-3810
Grief support is free
Hospice of the Valley offers a free ongoing grief support group for adults and is open to any adult who has experienced a loss through death. No registration required.
Details>> 6-7 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. 602-636-5390 or HOV. org.
Foothills Women meet
An informal, relaxed social organization of about 90 women living in the Ahwatukee Foothills/Club West area.
A way to escape once a month to have fun and meet with other ladies in the area. Guest speaker or entertainment featured.
Details>> 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Contact jstowe2@cox. net or FoothillsWomensClub.org.
Parents can ‘drop in’
Parents are invited to join a drop-in group to ask questions, share ideas or just listen to what’s going on with today’s teenagers.
Details>> 5:30-7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month. Maricopa Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Phoenix. Free. RSVP at 602-827-8200, ext. 348, or rcarter@ cals.arizona.edu.
‘Dems and Donuts’ set
Legislative District 18 Democrats gather for an informal chat.
Details>> Free and open to the public 7:30-9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Denny’s, 7400 W. Chandler
Blvd., Chandler. RSVP: marie9@q.com or 480-592-0052.
LD 18 Dems meet in Tempe
The Legislative District 18 Democrats meet the second Monday of the month.
Details>> 6:30 p.m. social time, 7-8:30 p.m. meeting time. Old Spaghetti Factory, 3155 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Information: ld18demsinfo@gmail.com. Free and open to the public.
Special networking offered
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce has a networking and leads group is open to chamber members. Details>> 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Radisson Hotel, 7475 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.
THURSDAYS
Kiwanis meets weekly
The Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club meets weekly and welcomes newcomers. The club is making plans for its annual Easter Parade April 14 and Spring Fling. Volunteers are welcome to come and sign up.
Details>> 7:30 a.m. Biscuits Restaurant, 4623 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. Information: mike.maloney2003@gmail.com.
Mothers of Preschoolers gather
Free child care for ages 0 to 5.
Details>> 9 a.m. second and fourth Thursday, Foothills Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St. Call Kim at 480-759-2118, ext. 218.
FRIDAYS
‘Gentle yoga’ offered
Inner Vision Yoga Studio offers “gentle floor yoga” for core strengthening and healthy backs.
Details>> 1:30-2:30 p.m. 4025 E. Chandler, Ahwatukee. $5 per class. Information: 480-330-2015 or donna@ innervisionyoga.com.
Toastmasters teach skills
This chamber-exclusive Chapter of the International Toastmasters club boasts professional development skills. Become the speaker and leader you want to be with Ahwatukee Chamber Toastmasters Club.
Details>> 8-9 a.m., First American Title Conference Room, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., #100, Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.
SATURDAYS
Alzheimer’s support group meets
Caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients can find support monthly.
Details>> 10-11:30 a.m. Ahwatukee Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the first Saturday of the month at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St.
Bosom Buddies slates meetings
Ahwatukee/Chandler nonprofit breast cancer support group.
Details>> 10 a.m. to noon, second Saturday of the month. Morrison Boardroom next to Chandler Regional Medical Center, 1875 W. Frye Road, Chandler. Contact Patti Lynch at 480-893-8900 or tomklynch@msn. com or Cele Ludig at 480-330-4301.
AROUND
from page 26
Summit School to discuss math for youngsters on Thursday
Building math minds for kindergarten children is the topic of a free presentation for parents of young children that will be held 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 6, at Summit School of Ahwatukee, 4515 E. Muirwood Drive, Ahwatukee.
Molly Danforth, a 20-year teacher and Summit School’s math coordinator, will discuss how numeracy and number sense are developed in preschool and extended in kindergarten.
A complimentary light dinner will be provided. Space is limited. RSVP to kathy. konrad@summitschoolaz.org
Kiwanis Club has last call for Ahwatukee Easter Parade entries
The Kiwanis Club of Ahwatukee is still looking for more entries into its Easter Parade, slated for 10 a.m. April 15.
The parade is followed by the Kiwanis Club’s Spring Fling. Both events raise money for the club’s numerous charitable activities throughout the year, including several programs for children in group foster homes. Deadline for entries is April 6. Information: msch0007@aol.com or 480759-0007. The Official Easter Bunny is a parade sponsor so no adult-sized Easter Bunny costumes are allowed.
Tickets on sale for wine-beer fest, auction items still needed
The 22nd annual Wine & Beer Tasting Festival will be presented by Festival of Lights, a non-profit organization, 6:30-10:30 p.m. April 29 at Rawhide Western Town. All proceeds will benefit the Million White Light display along Chandler Boulevard during the holiday season, a tradition begun by Del Webb in the early 90s and returned to Ahwatukee in 1995 by a group of volunteers. Tickets are $50 in advance and are available at all three Safeway stores in Ahwatukee and folaz.org.
To donate auction items, please contact Susan Anderton at info@folaz.org.All items are welcome.
Ahwatukee YMCA offers fitness for recovering cancer victims
Livestrong is a free small group fitness program at the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA for adult cancer survivors aimed at easing them back into fitness and improve their quality of life.
Each 12-week session meets for 75 minutes twice a week and a free YMCA membership for the duration of the program. Class size is limited to six people. Info: Debbie Mitchell at 602-212-6081.
Colina Elementary celebrates
BY BECKY BRACKEN AFN Staff
Kyrene de la Colina is a little elementary school with a gigantic heart.
Last Friday, March 31, Colina marked its 30th birthday with a ceremony that honored the teachers, students, administrators and families who have built Colina into the
kind of community center that public schools across the country aspire to be.
And at a time when public schools too often get a bad rap, I think it’s important to acknowledge how lucky we are to live in place that values and supports schools like Colina.
Colina is special. It’s a place where kids feel safe and loved – and, most importantly, learn.
Schools like Colina don’t just happen by accident. Its quality is the direct result of the tireless efforts of everyone involved in making it work. And it’s been that way since its start three decades ago.
My little brother, Fred, now in his 30s and a father himself, was one of the first Colina students. At Colina he was nurtured – and he thrived.
Fred loved to build and create, so his second-grade teacher, Brenda Hardin, gave
Concerts the Park
him two desks so he’d have room to work. It was a small gesture, but one that made all the difference.
It was a kindness to assure a creative, bright kid that school was a place where he would be encouraged. He’s a lawyer now and our mother still gives Hardin most of the credit for his school success.
Bill Hegebush, Colina’s first principal,
spoke at the 30th birthday ceremony and told a story from when the school first opened its doors in 1987.
There was so much new construction in the area. Homes were occupied before street signs were put up, leaving bus drivers on their own to figure out how to pick up the school’s earliest students.
“We never lost one!” Hegebush joked. He called it a “pioneer” school during its first years because it was out in the middle of nowhere. The homes and community literally built up around Colina. And it’s still the heartbeat of so many Ahwatukee families’ lives.
Now, my own daughter is a first grader at Colina. And even all these years later, she, too, is receiving the same love and attention my brother did all those years ago.
I hope next year she can be in Hardin’s second grade class and keep up the family tradition.
But it’s not just the teachers that make Colina the magical place it is. Kelley Brunner, Colina’s current principal, is more than an experienced and gifted educator; she’s a former Colina mother too. Each and every time I meet her, she hugs me, thanks me and makes me feel like I matter at her school. And it means the world.
See, the kids who go though Colina aren’t just a test score or a product of the school. They’re important, they matter and they’re worth a little extra time and attention. It’s a standard that was set 30 years ago and thanks to everyone in the community; it’s one that’s still just as important today. Happy birthday Colina. Here’s to another 30 successful years of service to Ahwatukee’s kids.
((Lauren Clark/Kyrene School District)
Jim Alexander, a custodian with Kyrene School District and retired Massachusetts teacher, presents the science of vibration and how it relates to sound to Kindergarten students in Colina’s DISCOVERoom during its Science Day activities last week.
((Lauren Clark/Kyrene School District)
Donna Turner, a Kyrene grandparent and event volunteer, lends a helping hand to fourth-grade students Nicole MacKenzie, left, and Jasmine Taylor during Colina Elementary's Science Day.
Volunteers offer three fun ways to say farewell to The Season in Ahwatukee
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
Soon, many organizations will be slowing down for the long desert summer as their members and the general public hunker down inside their air-conditioned homes or seek relief from the brutal heat at summer getaways
Even though this native Easterner has been in Arizona nearly two decades, I continue to be fascinated by that rhythm. Having grown up in areas where April brought many organizations and fundraisers to life, I find it kind of sad that we in the Valley look at April as the glorious climax to six months of festivities and outdoor gathering, many of which are aimed at raising money for good causes or calling attention to others.
Yes, May will bring graduations and a few other events, but we all know that The Season is winding down. The
charity runs are coming at us full throttle because in about six weeks it will become too hot to draw many participants. The golf tournaments likewise are coming on strong, even though a few will be played in June for the hardy souls. And many groups that meet weekly or monthly will suspend those sessions until September.
For now, though, April is bringing a few community events that Ahwatukee residents might want to keep in mind as they bid adieu to The Season.
As you might have noted elsewhere in today’s AFN, you’ve already missed the 11th annual Ahwatukee Dog Show.
But if you enjoy dogs – or even if you just want to help people who care for abused and neglected canines – there’s the second annual Wags & Bags Cornhole Festival noon-7 p.m. Saturday at the Ahwatukee Swim and Tennis Center at 4700 E. Warner Road.
For five bucks, you can spend a day outside listening to music, playing games and partying a lot more cheaply than at
Country Thunder. Besides helping dogs, you’ll also be helping veterans, since the festival supports efforts to help homeless veterans keep their pets – dogs that in many cases offer their only consistent source of comfort.
The whole family can look forward to the Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club’s 41st annual Easter Parade on April 15 that will wind down 48th Street from Warner Road to Elliot Road, followed by the group’s Spring Fling fundraiser.
Keep in mind something important about the Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club: It does not count many people as members. Unlike the Ahwatukee Rotary that disbanded years ago for lack of members, though, the Ahwatukee Kiwanians are a fiercely dedicated bunch of men and women.
They meet at 7:30 p.m. every Thursday at Biscuits Restaurant, try to have a guest speaker every week discussing something of interest to Ahwatukee and spend the rest of their time figuring out ways they
can help people – particularly foster kids in group homes.
The two events combined offer something for almost every age group –whether it be kids who thrill to the sight of the parade’s giant Easter Bunny or the fun in the still-kind sun at the Spring Fling.
And again, if you attend the Spring Fling, you’ll be having fun while helping others.
Another big event comes at the end of April when the Festival of Lights holds its Wine and Beer Tasting Festival at Rawhide.
In some ways, the April 29 event can be considered a chance for Ahwatukee adults to bid farewell to The Season with a giant party that will offer dancing, music and a great opportunity to mingle with your neighbors.
The festival is one of the lights organization’s two big fundraisers of the
'State Education Board’s letter-grading system deserves an F'
BY BETH LEWIS AFN Guest Writer
It seems that only one person in Arizona actually supports the proposed A-F school grading system - and that’s Governor Ducey.
As an educator, I’ve taught in “A” schools and in “D” schools. I can assure you that teachers work just as hard in the so-called D schools, if not harder, and the students and families are just as invested in education.
So what are the real primary differences between “A” and “D” schools? I’ll tell you: zip code, wealth and skin color. Year after year, our Legislature defunds public schools, dealing our poorest schools the hardest blow. Yet, they have the nerve to ask, “Why are poor students behind the curve?”
Grading schools has a human impact, and it’s not a positive one.
A “D” grade carries a stigma and becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. It
shames kids and families into believing their schools are not worthwhile, their hard work will not pay off, and their teachers are not making the grade.
Families yank their kids out of “failing” schools. Prospective families and teachers choose to move elsewhere, leaving behind only those students with the fewest resources who would benefit most from high-quality teachers and motivating classmates.
The State Board of Education recently sought input on its proposed grading system, and received vehement opposition from teachers, parents and administrators.
It has been opposed by the Arizona Chamber, Arizona school administrators and the Arizona School Boards Association.
I’ve even been told that members of the Ad Hoc Committee responsible for seeking input don’t support it – they know that this system measures poverty, not achievement.
So, who does support this grading system? It’s a simple answer: Governor Ducey and the board he appointed –a board which has complained about the volume of calls it has received in opposition.
Members of the board’s Ad Hoc Committee responsible for finalizing the letter grading system were directed from the outset that 80 percent of the formula would be based on AZMerit scores and 10 percent on English Language Learner testing.
In other words, 90 percent of the assessment they were seeking input on was already determined. Does that sound like the board was really seeking input?
But let’s talk about that 10-percent wiggle room the board was allegedly willing to negotiate.
Thus far, Ducey’s board has refused to consider teacher retention rates and parent satisfaction surveys, which are excellent indicators of a school’s culture.
It rejected the notion that school clubs or activities should count towards a grade, even though a majority of parents support such a metric.
Finally, it denied awarding “bonus points” to schools in poverty, the very schools that have been denied equitable funding for decades. It seems to me the measly 10 percent they sought feedback on isn’t really up for discussion, after all. As a teacher, I wrote this column because I need your help.
Let Governor Ducey and your local legislators know that when they say they’re seeking input, they need to honor that input. Call and tell them you want a better way to measure school success. Stand with teachers, principals, and lifelong education advocates by insisting our students receive an equitable and fair education.
Remember, education never fails.
-Beth Lewis has been a public school educator in Arizona for seven years. Follow her on
See EDITOR'S COLUMN on page 32
ABM resident protests HOA elections in open letter
Dear ABM homeowners, neighbors, friends;
This letter is being written to answer questions and dispel rumors. On March 29, as a homeowner, I filed a formal complaint against the Ahwatukee Board of Management (ABM) with the Arizona Department of Real Estate.
The complaint stated, “By issuing an (annual) elections ballot listing only four candidates for four vacant seats on the board of the ABM HOA, and refusing to allow other qualified candidates to run, the current board arbitrarily and capriciously filled the vacancies for the new board of directors.”
I have been active serving with the ABM since she moved here in 1999. For more than 10 years I served as its treasurer, taking conservative and fiscally responsible positions. I have written articles for this newspaper publicizing and praising the good work of the ABM and its staff.
I have not been critical of the ABM or its board and even after I was not reelected to the board, continued to serve on the finance committee.
In all my years associated with the ABM, I have not been aware of any time that a homeowner in good standing (all association dues paid) was not allowed to run to serve as one of the nine directors on the board. The decision of who would represent you, was left up to you, in a free and open election. Until now.
I was told this year five homeowners – in good standing with no apparent conflicts of interest – had filed applications with the newly formed nominating committee by the published deadline to run in this election. Four homeowners were allowed to
have their names put on your ballot. The fifth homeowner, myself, was the only homeowner not allowed to run. No reason was ever given.
In the name of transparency, I want the public at large to know how much it hurt me to have to do this. If you have any questions, please feel free to call me in the evenings at 480-226-6868. I want to hear from you.
-Karin Gray
Cyclists more important to ADOT than local residents
Since when did the wish-list of bicyclists from other communities become more important than the needs of Ahwatukee residents? I’m so sorry for Joe Struttman of Tempe that he and his cycling friends won’t get their high speed, all-weather bike path along Pecos on the taxpayer’s dime.
He says that “ADOT seems to be listening better” since the path, which Struttman admits will probably only be used by cyclists, is now being widened from 15 feet to 20 – again, at our expense.
I’m glad ADOT is listening to the bicyclists because they wouldn’t listen to local residents who had the nerve to ask for an environmental study on the freeway’s impact.
Bicyclists routinely ignoring bike lanes on 17th Avenue and Chandler Boulevard, and using the car lanes as their own, are already a problem for those of us who live here. I suggest that Struttman and his friends pool their money and build their high-speed, all-weather track near his home in Tempe on the nickel. If taxpayer money is going to be used for one group’s personal interest, then I would like the state to pay for an allweather putting green in my back yard.
-Scott Cox
Golf course is feasible at Ahwatukee Lakes
Start with the reality that the 102-acre site remains restricted by law to use as an operating golf course. This is the reality because of strong CC&Rs that protect that use for both The Lakes and the Ahwatukee Country Club, and because the CC&Rs were strongly affirmed last summer by Judge John Hannah.
In other words, unless the developer convinces the majority of us HOA members to give up those protections and change the CC&Rs, then the course is WORTH no more than what it is worth as a golf course. As long as homeowners refuse to change the CC&Rs, the land cannot be valued for housing development (such as Ahwatukee Farms).
Now, obviously, the previous owner, Wilson Gee and the True Life Company, which claims to have bought it for the exorbitant price of $9 million, want to yank all the money out of it they can.
We’ve seen them repeatedly try to change its “use” so they can turn it into a #100 million project. Indeed, we’ve seen them trying almost everything, including claiming that it can never be a golf course again. They’re wrong. And as long as homeowners say no, that statement was, is, and will remain false.
Can it be a golf course again? The answer appears to be YES.
Why? Because numerous experts we’ve consulted in the industry indicate that it can be repaired and returned to a good quality course for $2 -3 million. They also tell us and that the course can support that kind of reinvestment, plus a nominal amount for the land .
Under what conditions might this occur?
We as a community hold the cards, as long as we insist we will never permit
turning The Lakes into another housing tract.
True Life must stop bulldozing HOA members into changing the CC&Rs so that the company can make millions. To permit the value of the land as a golf course to surface, it must pull back from its deal with Wilson Gee.
Gee must give up his fight to make millions off the community by getting us to accept a change of use.
Gee must accept that his game of destroying the course in order to convince HOA members to sign off their right to keep it as a golf course has failed. Therefore, the course is not available for development as Ahwatukee Farms, and is thus not worth the $9 million he sought to charge.
Logically, Gee would then make a business decision to market The Lakes as a golf course and sell it for the best offer from people who want to reopen it as a golf course.
No doubt Gee would end up with a loss, the result of his speculation that he could develop without a squawk from our community.
Once it’s on the market, the analysis of the cost of reassembling the golf course will be made by real golf course investors. The price of the land would be established based on what they can afford to pay in a viable golf course venture.
Although True Life and Gee have claimed that The Lakes will never become a golf course again, the analysis above shows there is little doubt that it can be. In the end, it is entirely up to homeowners to keep what they have by refusing to change the CC&Rs, and forcing the developers to give up their scheme.
As a retired developer who knows this process, I encourage Mr. Gee and True
Life to make a positive decision for the community and step aside, by offering the property for sale to a golf course developer.
-Marvin Galts,
'Ducey has taken a critical step for Arizona's future'
By the start of the 19th century, the economies of the U.S. and Western Europe were dramatically outpacing the rest of the world’s in what is known as the “Great Divergence.”
A number of factors contributed to this phenomenon, which paved the way for modern capitalism on a global scale and created dynamics that would determine the financial fate of nations. Those economies left behind have faced great hardships through the eras and some are still struggling to emerge.
Today, our world is experiencing a second “Great Divergence,” this time with technology and innovation as driving forces. Fortunately for us, Arizona State University is at the forefront of both, offering the means to not only keep us from being left behind
but to actually help our state and nation lead the way.
Gov. Ducey has taken a critical step for Arizona’s future by proposing a significant investment in research and academic facilities at our public universities to help us meet the challenges of our time, including generating a highly trained workforce, spin-off companies that fuel our economy and research that creates jobs and problem-solving outcomes.
Those nations and states that have embraced technology and innovation through effective public policies and investment (Florida, Texas, Singapore, etc.) have prospered in the 21st century. We should follow suit and support our governor’s proposal, lest we be left behind.
– Ruben Diaz
AFN thanked for role in clothing drive success
The St. Vincent de Paul, Corpus Christi Conference annual Furniture/ Clothing Drive was a HUGE success. We had to request a second truck to help deliver the donations.
We believe that, with your help, running our ad in the Ahwatukee Foothills News resulted in the awesome
participation of our community. Your time, effort and support are truly appreciated. Again, thank you for all your help.
-Carmelita Madison, Vincentian, SVdP Corpus Christi Conference
year. Together with the Kick-Off Party held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, proceeds help the group pay for the brilliant lights that grace Chandler Boulevard during December.
And like Wags & Bags and the Easter Parade-Spring Fling organizers, the group putting on this party isn’t that big.
But what the Festival of Lights Committee might lack in numbers, members make up for it in community spirit.
There’s no selfish reason I can see as to why a group of people would spend weeks planning two big community parties every year just to raise enough money for a third way to delight Ahwatukee residents. By the way, the lights folks could use some volunteers with setting up and tearing down the festival, so feel free to raise your hand.
For Wags & Bags and the Easter Parade-Spring Fling, all you need to do is show up. For tickets to the Wine and Beer Tasting Festival or to volunteer, go to folaz.org.
And with our desert spring and The Season coming to a close, party on. But help someone in the process.
Ahwatukee’s Grand Dame of real estate has no plan to slow down
– Editor’s note: This is another installment in an occasional series on long-standing businesses and business professionals in Ahwatukee.
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
Pam Eagan is the Grande Dame of Ahwatukee Realtors.
Not only has she been a real estate broker for 33 years, but she has been a resident of Ahwatukee for 36.
When she moved here, Eagan and her family settled in the first “family section” that Randall Pressley, Ahwatukee’s first homebuilder, had started when he began reaching out to more than just retirees to fill the 2,080 acres he owned in the shadow of South Mountain.
She has watched Ahwatukee transform from a community where most residents were from someplace else to a place that is home to “a whole generation of people who were born here and grew up here.”
So now, not only are many of her early clients coming to her to sell their homes as they downsize for retirement, but the children of many other clients are seeking her services because she sold their parents the homes where they grew up.
That often gives her an edge.
“I get 40 percent of my listings because I sold people before,” she said. “I know four are coming on the market soon, so if you’re my buyer, you’re going to get the house before anyone else.”
Because her father was a homebuilder, Eagan said, “my whole life has been homes.”
When she had finished college, she worked for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in New York, but got out of that job after only a couple years.
“Everything was a gray area. My director and the people higher up were never in the office. It was corrupt, disgusting. I couldn’t stand it,” she said. She took five years off to raise her three children and when she first moved out
here in 1980, she enjoyed visiting new homes and looking at floor plans.
Then one day, a fellow refugee from Long Island who had been showing her a house asked her why she hadn't gotten a real estate license.
“A light bulb went off,” she said.
Back in the early 1980s, though, Ahwatukee was barely a community.
She recalled how Pressley pushed for the creation of a school because he wanted to start drawing young families.
Her parents had settled into Ahwatukee about five years before she moved there.
They had originally come to Arizona for a visit to check out Sun City as a place to retire.
“Believe it or not, back then, Del Webb was sending letters to people in Long Island and other places saying, get an airline ticket and come out and be our guest for a week and check out our new community,” she recalled.
But her parents decided that the West Valley homes the now-defunct homebuilder was selling were too expensive.
Then they remembered the diorama that Pressley had set up at the airport touting Ahwatukee.
“They had taken down the phone number, so they stayed an extra few days and went out to Ahwatukee and decided that was where they wanted to relocate,” Eagan said.
Though she sells homes throughout the East Valley and beyond – she has 2,000 career sales under her belt – Eagan has a special place in her heart for Ahwatukee.
To an outsider, she believes, “Ahwatukee is not that special. You only get it if you live here.”
She said she makes sure that when a client wants to buy a home in a neighborhood she’s never been to, she goes there first to check it out.
“You can’t get your clients the best deal if you don’t know everything,” she explained.
Eagan, who is associated with Realty Executives on Ray Road, may have seen many changes in Ahwatukee, but it’s the changes in her profession that bug her.
She sees too many newer agents who seem to have never learned her maxim:
“You have to understand that if you’re in this business, you don’t matter. It has to do all with them, your clients.
Someone during a deal said to me once, ‘I feel sorry for the seller and us.’ I said, ‘What do you mean? There is no us.’
“This job requires the patience of a saint and a level of commitment many younger agents have no idea about,” she added.
Hence, she gets upset when she recalls a Realtor whom she was telephoning with an offer telling her, “I can’t talk to you now.”
“I asked why and she said, ‘It’s 5 p.m.’ I said, ‘I think I misheard you. I have a client who has an offer to make on a house you’re selling.’
And she said, ‘It’s 5 o’clock. You’ll have to call tomorrow.’”
And it explains why she can’t believe most realty offices – including hers –don’t have weekend hours.
“When do you think most people want to do business when they’re buying a house? It’s horrific they aren’t open,” she said.
But for all the annoyances, Eagan said she can’t quit.
“Every once in a while, something happens that reminds me of how I impact people,” she said.
She recalled a couple with four kids “who could barely afford to live in Ahwatukee” and how the mother, a bartender, had brought her tip money in a jar to the closing as part of the payment they needed.
“We were in the house and ready to wrap up and I was leaving when one of the little girls said, ‘Wait.’ She ran into the backyard, pulled a flower and came back in and gave it to me. She said, ‘Thank you for finding us our house.’”
Choking up a bit over the recollection, Eagan added,
“That’s what it’s all about. It’s about finding a home for people.”
Pam Eagan Real Estate Realty Executives
3930 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. 602-390-5740, pameagan@gmail.com Pameagan.com
(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Staff Photographer)
Realtor Pam Eagan has been in the real estate business for 33 years and an Ahwatukee resident for 36.
New Ahwatukee gym has plenty of local connections
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
Anew gym coming to Ahwatukee has a couple of community connections.
Shelley Fearer, who founded TruHIT Fitness with her husband, Ken, is a Mountain Pointe High School graduate. And Jessica Stout, the owner of the Ahwatukee location, moved into the community in January.
Just as TruHIT is a family affair, so too is the Ahwatukee location, one of two the Fearers are opening soon after successfully launching their first gym in the Scottsdale Airpark.
Stout said she and her husband, Durry, moved to Ahwatukee with their 3-yearold daughte, Avery, “specifically to open and be close to the gym.”
“We chose Ahwatukee because it is a nice community with many young families,” she said, adding, “We will be running the facility together. I will train the morning class and I currently have two more trainers, Kat and Jamie, who will be running the evening and weekend classes. My husband will be an administrator and help operate the nutrition club. We also offer child care for both morning and evening classes.”
The Ahwatukee gym, at 4302 E. Ray Road, is one of two Phoenix locations the Fearers are opening Monday, April 10.
Ken Fearer started TruHIT with 150 members and now has two Scottsdale locations with more than 1,000 participants.
TruHIT’s philosophy combines personal group training and workouts, a customized meal and nutrition plan combined with high-intensity training. Fearer said his motto is “20 percent exercise, 80 percent nutrition, 100 percent mindset.”
Fearer said he is is taking advantage of a trend from big-box gyms and other formats that don’t drive results but come at a hefty monthly cost.
“It’s proving to be a winning combination for our clients,” said Fearer. “We opened our first location in the Scottsdale Airpark in 2013 and we’re set to open two more this spring to meet the growing demands of our clients.
“We know fitness is not one-size-fits-all – and that’s what makes us unique. We take the time to understand what their fitness journey has been, their overall objectives and the results they want to see. From there, we provide a right-sized personalized approach to fitness that’s tailored to their lifestyle and get the best results.”
“Since we started, we have more than 2,500 clients who have signed up for the
challenges, and collectively our clients have lost over 4,000 pounds during our fit challenges,” he added.
The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), the trade association of the fitness industry, reports that of the 54.1 million people who had memberships to a health or fitness club in 2014, 42 percent were members of a studio.
Although his wife is a Mountain Pointe grad, Fearer said they chose Ahwatukee for one of its new locations because it “is a great, close niche community and we feel our gym would be a great fit for the area.”
He said the free nutrition counseling consists of “macro-nutrient balancing and meal plan advice.”
“No special foods, just healthy recommendations,” he added. “It’s about making the
right healthy choices, so it’s about spending the time to learn about their habits and ways to adjust by making the right choices and mix of meals and snacks.”
“We feel like we have the best bootcamp-style gym around,” he said. “Our only challenge is getting the word out. Once people try it, most of them love it.”
With dumbbells, kettlebells, TRX, slam balls, rowing machines and jump ropes, TruHIT offers “very unique workouts designed to get people fit while enjoying the workouts,” he added.
Brunner has long been involved in fitness and is certified in personal training, weight-loss specialization and corrective exercise. “I have worked for many gyms and done everything from fitness sales to management, and training,” she said.
(Special to AFN)
Jessica and Durry Stout, left, moved specifically to Ahwatukee to be near the TruHIT fitness gym she'll be operating as part of the franchise that Ken Fearer and his wife, Shelley, a Mountain Pointe High grad, right, started a few years ago in Scottsdale. The boutique gym features group workouts and nutrition advice. The Ahwatukee TruHIT opens Monday, April 10.
Two veterans open Ahwatukee’s first livery tour
Mark McCue and Sunny Vilayseng are giving Ahwatukee something it hasn’t had: a livery and tour service.
The two Ahwatukee military veterans recently launched Western Skies Transportation & Tours LLC.
“Our business is geared for families and small groups up to eight passengers,” said McCue, a Phoenix native whose family first moved to Ahwatukee in 1982, when he was 4 years old.
“We focus on safety, reliability, customer service and luxury, giving quality over quantity to our customers,” he added.
They provide service to and from Sky Harbor Airport and are awaiting a permit to do the same at Gateway Airport in east Mesa.
They also provide transportation to all cities in Arizona, offer tours to Sedona, Jerome, Bisbee and Tombstone and tout custom tours to other attractions in the state.
McCue was a U.S. Marine from 1996 until about a year ago. He and his wife then bought a home in Ahwatukee and took a year off.
That’s when the idea for a tour service was born.
“I spent the last year enjoying family and taking a lot of trips down south and up north showing off the beauty of our great state to my wife, who is from Los Angeles, and also to family who came to visit from out of state,” he said.
All that traveling inspired him and he began talking to Vilayseng about his idea.
The two served in the III Marine Expeditionary Force, III Marine Headquarters Group in Okinawa,
Japan. Vilaseng was a supply chief and McCue was warehouse chief.
“Sunny and I developed a great rapport while serving together and developed into a great friendship,” he said. “I started planning and laying the foundation for Western Skies.
"I knew not having a solid, trustworthy and reliable personnel running the administrative and marketing side of the company would prevent me from growing.”
And so, Western Skies became a reality.
“I wanted to give great transportation and tour service to Ahwatukee and surrounding areas. We are based in the Ahwatukee Foothills. I also want to grow to be able to hire veterans who are transitioning into the civilian sector
employment,” McCue said.
The two are starting out small. They have a souped-up black GMC Savannah Conversion Van that seats eight.
It has a captain’s chair, dual-charging stations for each passenger, WiFi, 30inch TV, Google Chromecast, surround sound and even snack and beverage service.
McCue says he and his partner have their work cut out for them.
“The transportation business is very competitive,” he said, adding:
“There are a lot of companies that are offering similar services, but we believe our company values – honor, accountability and loyalty – will be the key to our success.
“The biggest challenge we face is
ensuring we leave a positive impact to our customers and letting them know who we are and what we’re about. Ensuring their transportation or tour experience with Western Skies was beyond reproach and unforgettable.
"We want them leaving satisfied for what they paid for and the standards our company has set were met.”
McCue has found that being a native Arizonan also has helped.
“I grew up spending a lot of time in Bisbee, Tombstone, Sedona and Jerome and all across our great state,” he said.
“I learned a lot of history. Also, I have read books and researched historical events in Arizona.”
That knowledge helps him give an informative tour to his customers, he said.
Currently, Western Skies offers only day trips “due to our logistical limitations,” but McCue has set his sights on bigger goals.
“As we’re able to grow, we will expand into two or three-day trips and tours,” he said.
“If a customer wanted to plan a twoor three-day trip with us, we’re willing to accommodate as long as we’re given ample amount of days in advance. Our custom tours give our customer the choice to pick their desired destination.”
Two days after their March 23 ribbon cutting, McCue and Vilayseng took their first group of people down to Tombstone.
While they are on Facebook, McCue said the company is working on a web site.
For now, customers can contact Western Skies at westernskiestours@ gmail.com or 480-849-1911.
(Special to AFN)
Mark McCue, left, and partner Sunny Vilayseng show off the first dollar their business, Western Skies, made as Devida Pi’ilani Lewis of iAhola Radio celebrates their ribbon cutting. in Ahwatukee.
2 of 3 Ahwatukee ZIPS have some of Arizona’s priciest homes
Two of Ahwatukee’s three ZIP codes are among Arizona’s priciest for houses, according to a survey by a major real estate research website. Both 85045 and 85048 rank in the middle of the pack of the state’s 50th priciest ZIP codes, according to an analysis by Propertyshark. com, a property research tool founded in 2003 by real estate investor Matthew Haines.
The site computed its list of the 50 priciest ZIP codes in the state by calculating the median price of all residential transactions closed in 2016 for single and two-family homes, condos and co-ops and excluding so-called package deals.
That analysis puts 85045 at 18th on the list with a median sale price o0f $342,000 and 85048 at 35th with a median of $300,000.
The median means that the sale price of half of all homes sold exceeded that number and the other half were below.
Analysts consider the median price a more accurate indicator of the market, as it reflects the sample size being used In all, 12 East Valley ZIP codes besides
the two in Ahwatukee were among the top 50, with the highest being Tempe’s 85284, which came in 12th with a median price of $397,500.
Five Scottsdale ZIP codes cracked the top 10 and Paradise Valley’s 85253 came in first with a median price of $1,040,000 – the only seven-figure median price in the state.
But even that median doesn’t break the top 50 ZIP codes in the nation, Propertyshark said. The priciest ZIP in the country is Portola Valley, California, where the median sale price was $2.8 million and the 50th was Amagansett, New York, with a $1.7-million median price.
“Arizona’s real estate market has had a great run in 2016, with both sales and prices expanding, while stock, as in many other regions in the country, contracted. Phoenix, one of the hardest hit markets during the 2008 crash, has been rebounding in a spectacular manner,” Propertyshark said in a release.
“Named the second-best city for homeowners, Phoenix now sports the second-fastest growing home appreciation rate and the second-lowest foreclosure rate among the country’s top metros,” it added.
She said she was quickly drawn to TruHIT’s “workout and fusion of nutritional planning.”
“People get excellent results when they are consistent with the workouts and get guidance with their nutrition,” she said. She was trained for opening her own gym at TruHIT’s Scottsdale Airpark location.
“I love how supportive all of the
franchise owners are to one another. It makes the process of opening your own so much easier,” she said.
“I know that my Ahwatukee friends and neighbors who already work out will love this method of training as much as I do,” Brunner said. “I also want the folks who have never worked out or who are looking for a healthy change to know that this is a great place for them too." Information: truhitfitness.com or info@truhitfitness.com.
Bill allowing 164 percent interest rate on loans appears doomed
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
Lenders are apparently not going to get a chance to lend money to Arizonans at an effective rate of 164 percent a year.
“It will not move forward,’’ Senate President Steve Yarbrough told Capitol Media Services last week. “It does not appear to have the votes to move forward.’’
Despite that, Matthew Benson, lobbyist for the Arizona Financial Choice Association, said he was not yet ready to concede defeat.
“We’re talking with legislators each and every day,’’ he said. Benson said he believes some of the foes can eventually be brought around.
But even Sen. Debbie Lesko, R-Peoria, who championed the legislation on behalf of lenders, said she thinks this is pretty much the end of the road, at least for this year. Lesko said she’s not prepared to try to corral
opponents into changing their minds.
“It wasn’t my top priority bill,’’ she said.
“I agreed to do it,’’ Lesko said. “So if it doesn’t have the votes, it doesn’t have the votes.’’
Anyway, Lesko said, she has other priorities this session, like expanding access to vouchers – officially known as “empowerment scholarship accounts’’ – to allow more children to attend private and parochial schools with tax dollars.
The death of HB 2496 means that, with one key exception, lenders can charge no more than 36 percent annual interest. That exception is for title loans where borrowers pledge their vehicles as collateral. These carry annual interest rates in excess of 200 percent.
Lesko billed her plan as a better alternative for people whose credit is not good enough to borrow from more traditional sources.
Officially dubbed a “Consumer
Access Line of Credit,’’ lenders would be able to offer revolving loans of up to $2,500.
Strictly speaking, it would not violate the current 36 percent allowable interest. Instead, it would permit lenders to charge what proponents call a “daily transaction fee’’ of 0.45 percent per day, a figure that computes out to an annual percentage rate in excess of 164 percent.
Yarbrough’s announcement marks the latest in a series of defeats for the consumer-lending industry which has tried to once again get permission to offer high-interest loans to Arizonans.
In 2000 Arizona lawmakers agreed to allow so-called “payday loans,’’ short-term renewable loans usually of no more than two weeks. The interest rates on those, on an annual basis, was in the 450 percent range.
But that 2000 law was on a trial basis for just 10 years. And when lawmakers balked at extending the 10-year trial, the industry spent more than $14
million to convince voters to keep payday lending legal.
Voters thought otherwise, deciding on a 3-2 margin to end the exemption. Payday lending went away in 2010.
Since then, however, there have been perennial efforts by lenders to get permission to offer various highinterest products.
A 2015 proposal would have kept that 26 percent usury limit. But lenders would have been able to charge a series of fees for everything from maintaining account information, validating customer information, processing transactions and providing periodic billing statements, fees that could be up to $15 a day on a $3,000 loan.
When that failed, the industry returned last year with a proposal to let them charge up to 15 percent a month – 17 percent if there’s no collateral –on loans between $500 and $2,500 for terms between 45 days and two years. That, too, failed.
Angry Crab Shack
3820 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. 480-233-8675. angrycrabshack.com/ restaurant
Angry Crab Shack and Angry Crab & BBQ is the number one place to go for all your seafood needs.
San Tan Ford
1429 E. Motorplex Loop, Gilbert. 888-835-3280. santanford. com.
San Tan Ford prides itself on providing an amazing car-buying experience for customers. The moment you step into the new 2016 Ford showroom, you will see the best vehicles Ford has to offer.
The True Life Companies
8601 N. Scottsdale Rd, Suite 335. Scottsdsale. 602-626-8776. thetruelifecompanies.com
Our name originates from our fervent desire to create economic opportunity and to inspire American innovation. We are passionate about building strong honest relationships, and we know that being True to ourselves and to others is the cornerstone of integrity.
Desert Dentistry
4609 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. 480-706-4600. desertdentistry.com
You want the best for your family. That’s true with their education and their health. That’s also why we invite you to check out Desert Dentistry if you are looking for a family dentist.
AZ Spine Disc and Sport
4530 E. Ray Road, Ste. 110, Ahwatukee. 480-759-1668. azspinediscandsport.com
AZ Spine Disc & Sport is a multidisciplinary clinic that offers a wide variety of services, allowing us to diagnose and manage painful conditions of the body. Our multidisciplinary clinic consists of pain management and rehabilitation, chiropractic, physical therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, strength and conditioning, and nutrition.
Main Street Ahwatukee
Brought to you by the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce
AmTrust Bank sponsoring Ahwatukee Chamber ambassadors program
BY LINDY LUTZ CASH AFN Guest Writer
The Ambassador Committee in the Ahwatukee Chamber is the liaison between the Chamber and the business community.
They attend the mixers, ribbon cuttings, programs and signature fundraising events and they are always front and center promoting the Chamber to the Ahwatukee community.
As chair of the Ambassador Committee, Jim Hunt, with United Brokers Group, always says, “Our ambassadors are the heartbeat of the Chamber.”
Ambassadors serve as advocates for the business community and provide an inviting and open atmosphere for networking and conducting business.
As public relations representatives for the Chamber, Ambassadors must demonstrate respect for the community, other businesses and each other. The Ambassador team also assists the Chamber in recruiting and retaining members, educating members about the
services and benefits of their membership and fostering member engagement in Chamber programs, events and committees.
We are proud to share that one of our members, AmTrust Bank, has stepped up to serve as the sponsor of the Ambassador Program for 2017.
During the 10 years since AmTrust opened its Ahwatukee branch, the staff has made it its mission to serve their customers and the community with a strong sense of ownership for the success of all.
When you walk into the branch, you immediately get a welcoming feel from the AmTrust Team. Hunt stated, “Since AmTrust is such an ambassador to the community, it only makes sense they are an ambassador to the Chamber. I am very proud to have them joining us as our Ambassador sponsor.”
AmTrust Ahwatukee Branch Manager Enery Lopez shared, “The Ahwatukee Chamber has been such a huge part of our growth and success. I am honored to be a part of such an amazing group of people.
“The AmTrust Team is very excited about this new partnership with
the Chamber as the Ambassador Program Sponsor. We have a genuine desire of being a supportive resource to our community and we proudly support our local business leaders in continuing the growth of Ahwatukee.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Doreen Rast, senior vice president, Arizona regional executive, added, “It is so exciting to see the relationship with AmTrust Bank and the Ahwatukee Chamber grow each year. The partnership with the Chamber has been key to our success in the Ahwatukee community.”
“I see the Ambassador Program Sponsorship as another step in AmTrust Bank’s commitment to support and grow in the community we live in, “ she added.
The AmTrust Team, which was also honored as the Chamber’s 2016 Business of the Year, takes pride in getting to know their customers as people, not simply as clients. They exemplify professionalism, trust and building relationships.
Thank you for serving our great Ahwatukee community, AmTrust.
April 28.
Public Policy
Foothills Golf Club
2201 E. Clubhouse Drive, Ahwatukee.
6 p.m. Thursday, April 6. Free.
Wake-Up Ahwatukee Morning Mixer
Ahwatukee Foothills News 1620 W. Fountainhead Pkwy., Tempe.
8-9 a.m. Tuesday, April 11. $5 members, $15 general admission
Women in Business Luncheon
Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive, Ahwatukee.
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., April 13. $20 members, $30 general admission.
After 5 Evening Mixer
Comfort Inn Chandler South 7400 W. Boston St., Chandler. 5:30-7 p.m., April 19. $5, members, $15 general admission.
Lindy Lutz Cash is president/CEO of the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce.
Faith
Beatles music, Jewish prayers meet in Tempe program
BY RALPH ZUBIATE Tribune Managing Editor
The music of the Beatles transcends generations and genres, and continues to find itself in new places. Like synagogues.
Yes, synagogues.
A year ago, Temple Emanuel of Tempe conducted its first Beatles Shabbat, setting Hebrew prayers to the music of the Fab Four. It was a huge hit.
“We were expecting maybe 200 people,” cantorial soloist Emily Kaye said. “But it was standing room only, about 500.”
This year, the temple is hosting its second Beatles Shabbat on Friday, April 7, starting with a “nosh” at 6 p.m. and services at 6:30. “Groovy-wear optional,” the Temple says on its website.
The idea to merge Beatles and Jewish prayers was born in Henderson, Nevada.
Cantor Jessica Hutchings of Congregation Ner Tamid conducted a Beatles Shabbat a few years ago.
“The cantor wrote all the music,” Kaye said. “I heard it, contacted her and wanted to do it myself.
“Ours is different,” she insists. “She had only a band, but I direct the band, and a choir.
“We took it a step further.”
Kaye added to the program, too.
“I wrote a few extra arrangements.”
But why a non-Jewish group like the Beatles?
“All their music is about love,” Kaye said. “That’s what we strive for here, love and community.
“For instance, we have a new piece written by a band member, a prayer about loving God, called a v’ahavtah, we put to ‘All You Need Is Love.’”
Kaye says everybody at the temple has been looking forward to the next Beatles Shabbat, so much so that the choir has
grown, with people joining just to sing for the special service.
“The choir loves the music. We have people from 15 years old to their 70s, and they appreciate and love the music,” she said.
Choir members have to be temple members, but that doesn’t seem to be a barrier to some.
“One person wanted to sing so bad, she became a member so she could,” Kaye said.
So many are expected this time that Temple Emanuel is setting up an overflow room that will have a screen projection of the service.
“It’s kind of a dancing room,” she said.
Temple Emanuel welcomes non-Jewish people to the service, which is about half-English and half-Hebrew, Kaye said.
“Jewish or not, the message can be heard,” she said. “People who are nonJews who have heard it have thought it’s cool.”
Kaye has been the cantorial soloist in Tempe for about four years. Her position is different from that of an ordained cantor, which takes years of additional study in New York and Israel.
She has been singing since she was “a little, little, little girl,” Kaye said. She knew she wanted to sing for her faith when she turned 13.
“On the day of my bat mitzvah, that day made me want to be a cantor,” she said.
“I started at Temple Chai in Phoenix at age 15, leading services occasionally. My mom had to drive me,” she said, laughing. “I would get in front of 150 people, leading with my guitar.
“I loved it.”
Kaye has released a CD of Jewish music with her brother Eric Kaye. She also writes and performs secular music. She has a steady gig in north Phoenix twice a week.
She also has opened a studio, Emily Kaye Music, where she teaches voice and piano.
Temple Emanuel routinely shakes up its prayer music. Once a month, Kaye and the Shabba-Tones, the house band, play rock music with Hebrew lyrics.
“We played that song, ‘One of Us,’” Kaye said, referring to a popular 1995 song by Joan Osborne. She then launches into a sweet verse, “What if God was one of us …”
Those services are popular, and routinely fill the Temple’s worship center.
With the success of the Beatles Shabbat, Kaye is looking for the next big hit.
“I got comments, like, ‘Oh, my gosh, we need to do this with other songs. I heard, ‘We should do Michael Jackson, Queen, Led Zeppelin.’
“I’m thinking of Motown or Abba. I think that would go over well.”
(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Staff Photographer)
Emily Kaye leads the band practice at Temple Emanuel.
The Hillel Sandwich: Taking the bitter with the sweet
BY RABBI DEAN SHAPIRO AFN Guest Writer
Passover is the Jewish Feast of Freedom.
Each spring, we tell the story of our people’s exodus from Egypt and eat foods that enhance the story through symbolic and sensory stimulation.
One of them is the Hillel Sandwich.
The Hillel Sandwich isn’t the tastiest food, but it packs a powerful punch. Imagine two pieces of matzah – the brittle cracker we eat in place of bread. Matzah is the bread of affliction, reminding us of the many people who eat meager fare. On one piece, there’s charoset. That’s a sweet, reddish paste made of fruit, nuts and wine that evokes the mortar our ancestors used in their labors. The other piece holds the maror, or bitter herb.
American Jews generally use horseradish, a pungent sinus-clearer that allows us to taste the bitterness of oppression. It’s an odd combination of tastes and textures, but it manages to hit the spot.
Each person has their own formula for mixing the charoset and the maror. Some favor a bold bite of bitterness. Others add lots of sweet to drown out the harshness of the horseradish.
That’s not all. Matzah is thin and brittle. The stickiness of the charoset holds it together, but an over-eager bite can cause the whole thing to disintegrate right into your lap.
The sandwich is named for Rabbi Hillel, a sage who lived in the first century C.E. The sandwich he invented originally contained only bitter herb and was eaten along with lamb.
The Hillel Sandwich is a lot like life – a mixture of bitter and sweet.
Although some lives appear blessed and enviable, actually, everyone grapples with some degree of pain and disappointment. Others appear to lead bland lives but have a fascinating inner world that they share with no one, or just a select few. Whatever the mixture, some people focus on the bitterness of their lives. Others primarily experience the sweetness. What’s more, the whole concoction can crumble at any time. All that we acquire can be lost. All it takes is one burst blood vessel, one stormy night or one round of layoffs, and the foundation of our life is revealed as sand. The Hillel Sandwich reminds us that life is brittle.
How are we to live in this precarious state?
Some focus only on the joy, and ignore the reality of life. When loss comes to them, it hits even harder when it comes because it also destroys their worldview. They reel from the damage, having been
lulled into the illusion that today will be just like yesterday. Others focus so much on what’s missing in their lives that they miss the goodness that bursts through like spring daffodils.
This is a truth of the Exodus story, too. Even Pharaoh, king of Egypt, experiences the greatest pain. Even the Hebrews, enslaved for generations, experience jubilation. Nothing lasts forever.
The Hillel Sandwich is a reminder: In good times, don’t forget that there is pain. In trying times, remember that there is good. Neither the bitter nor the sweet can they be avoided, nor are they permanent. Taste it all, for it is the very stuff of life.
The Hillel Sandwich from the Passover Seder – all of life in a single bite.
Shapiro” page on Facebook.
— Rabbi Dean Shapiro is the spiritual leader of Temple Emanuel of Tempe. Contact him at rshapiro@ emanueloftempe.org and visit his “Rabbi Dean
Sat-Sun, April 8-9
PALM SUNDAY COMMEMORATED
Celebrate the triumphant arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem.
DETAILS>> A Palm Sunday musical cantata will be at all services. 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8; 9:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Sunday. Mountain View Lutheran Church,11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579, mvlutheran.org.
SATURDAY, APRIL 29
PRISCILLA SHIRER SIMULCAST
Women and teen girls will focus on the power of prayer and learn to study God’s Word.
DETAILS>> 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Bridgeway Community Church, 2420 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. Cost: $15 (includes refreshments), plus $8 for lunch (optional). Register: bridgewaycc.org.
SUNDAYS
BIBLE EXPLORED
This biblical scripture study embraces a spirit-filled, intellectually honest, and understandable exploration of God’s Word. Lessons will combine Christian and Jewish theology along with Bible history, archaeology and linguistics for a rich learning experience.
DETAILS>> 9:15 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579, mvlutheran.org.
HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE
High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together.
DETAILS>> 5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or email joel@ horizonchurch.com.
KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE
Children can learn and experience Jewish life. Chabad Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays.
DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@chabadcenter. com, or chabadcenter.com.
SUNDAY CELEBRATION SERVICE
Inspirational messages and music to lift your spirit. A welcoming community committed to living from the heart. Many classes and events offered. We welcome you!
DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-7921800, unityoftempe.com.
MONDAYS
JOIN CHRIST-CENTERED YOGA
This Flow 1-2 class (intermediate) is free and open to the community.
DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. Greg Battle at 480-759-6200 or gbattle@moutainpark.org.
CLASS TARGETS THE GRIEVING Classes for those grieving over death or divorce.
DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.
TUESDAYS
GRIEFSHARE
Mountain Park Community Church is offering an ongoing GriefShare programs to help people deal with the pain of losing a loved one.
DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m., 2408 E. Pecos Road, Ahwatukee.
To register: mountainpark.org and click on Launch. Information: Alex at 480-759-6200
FINDING HEALING FOR PAIN
HOPE (Help Overcome Painful Experiences) offers support for men and women who seek God’s grace and healing.
DETAILS>>> 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. mountainpark.org.
SENIORS ENJOY ‘TERRIFIC TUESDAYS’
The program is free and includes bagels and coffee and a different speaker or theme each week. Registration not needed.
DETAILS>> 10-11 a.m., Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588.
WEDNESDAYS
‘JOYFUL NOIZ’ FOR KIDS
Upbeat children’s choir with music and a message that kids can get excited about. This choir usually sings monthly during our worship services and presents a Christmas musical. For grades 3-8.
DETAILS>> 5:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
CHIMING CHERUBS
For younger kids, grades 2 and 3, who love music and want to learn to ring the handbells.
DETAILS>> 5:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
Celebrate Recovery is a Biblical 12-step program that
helps you find hope and healing from all of life’s hurts, habits and hang-ups.
DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
MIDWEEK LENT SERVICES
Weekly Lenten services end today, April 5.
DETAILS>> 6:15 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
DIVORCE CARE
DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group that will walk alongside you and provide support through divorce or separation.
DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
SANCTUARY CHOIR
This choir sings regularly at the 9:15 a.m. worship services and is a part of the Cantata Choir that presents around Christmas and Easter.
DETAILS>> 6:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
GOD OWNS IT ALL
This book study tackles the money question we all ask: How much is enough? This study will equip you to approach money management and financial planning with freedom, generosity, contentment, and confidence. Books may be purchased on amazon.com or lifeway.com.
DETAILS>> 6:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. See CALENDAR on page 45
CALENDAR
11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
THE TRUTH ABOUT DISHONESTY
This explores how unethical behavior works and how it affects all of us. This study will provide insights into why God commanded us to not tell lies.
DETAILS>> 6:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY
Study and examine the Scripture readings for the upcoming Sunday at a deeper level. This weekly class dissects the passages for the upcoming weekend, giving you time to study and understand the historical background.
DETAILS>> 6:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY MEETS
Celebrate Recovery says it “brings your relationship with the Lord closer to your heart as it heals your hurts, habits and hang-ups.” Participants can discuss issues ranging from feeling left out to addictions. “Nothing is too small or too large.”
DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. mvlutheran.org/ celebraterecovery or email cr@alphamvlc.com.
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY OFFERED
Living Word Ahwatukee women’s Bible study and fellowship that offers “a short, low-key time of praise and worship in music and message.” It’s also an opportunity to meet other Christian women in Ahwatukee.
DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m., Living Word Ahwatukee, 14647 W. 50th St., Suite 165, Ahwatukee. Free child care.
THURSDAYS
SLEEPING BAGS FOR THE HOMELESS
Ugly Quilts has made more than 15,500 sleeping bags for the area homeless, and continues to do so at First United Methodist Church every Thursday. Quilters stitch donated fabric, comforters, sheets and blankets into sleeping bags. Those are then distributed to the Salvation Army, churches and veterans’ organizations.
DETAILS>> 8 a.m.-2 p.m., 15 E. 1st Ave., Mesa. Information: 480-969-5577.
KIDS CAN FIND SUPPORT
Support group for children ages 6 to 12 coping with a separation or divorce in the family. One-time $10 fee includes snacks and workbook.
DETAILS>> 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C202, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.
FRIDAYS
NEFESHSOUL HOLDS SERVICES
Congregation NefeshSoul holds Shabbat services the second Friday of every month on the campus of the Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation.
DETAILS>> 6:15 p.m., 6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler. Information: nefeshsoul.org.
TOTS TAUGHT TORAH
Hosted by Chabad of the East Valley for children ages 2 to 5. Features hands-on activities about the Shabbat, songs, stories and crafts. Children will make and braid their own challah.
DETAILS>> 10:15-11 a.m., members’ homes. 480-785-5831.
SATURDAYS
WEEKLY SERVICES SCHEDULED
International, nondenominational church offers weekly Sabbath services. Congregational meeting in the morning and Bible study in the afternoon.
DETAILS>>10:30 a.m.-noon; 1:30-2:45 p.m. at True Jesus Church, 2640 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480-899-1488 or tjcphoenix@tjc.org.
JEWISH KIDS PROGRAM AVAILABLE
Shabbat Yeladim is a free Shabbat program for Jewish children ages 3-7 sponsored by Ahwatukee’s NefeshSoul Jewish Community. Shabbat Yeladim is on the second Saturday of the month. Songs, stories and art project each month.
DETAILS>> 10-11 a.m. on the Valley Unitarian Universalist Campus, 6400 W. Del Rio, Chandler. Contact Rabbi Susan Schanerman at rabbi@nefeshsoul.org or nefeshsoul.org.
STUDY AND WORSHIP IN TEMPE
DETAILS>> Temple Emanuel, 5801 S. Rural Road, Tempe. Optional study session at 8:20 a.m., Shabbat morning service at 9:30 a.m., followed by a kiddush. 480-8381414 or emanueloftempe.org.
Get Out
High tea, eclectic brunch take My Wine Cellar beyond a nightspot
BY PAUL MARYNIAK
AFN Executive Editor
Ever since she became the owner of My Wine Cellar last October at age 28, Shannon Rush has been revamping the wine list and tweaking the menu.
Now she’s introduced something that isn’t found in Ahwatukee – or anywhere but a fancy resort: high tea.
Three weeks ago, Rush introduced high tea – as well as brunch.
Both are available only between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays at the longtime Ahwatukee happy hour watering hole and nightspot at 5030 E. Warner Road, although My Wine Cellar will do a high tea for a private party most any time.
The high-tea concept harkens back to Rush’s youth in Brunei in some ways.
“It’s something I kind of grew up with, something my mom and I did when I was growing up,” she said. “Out here, the only high-tea offerings are at the resorts where you have to spend over $100. I wanted to offer a somewhat more approachable way to experience high tea to people who don’t want to drive that far.
“Besides, it’s cute,” she added.
My Wine Cellar’s high tea offers more than a pot of Earl Grey Tea and cucumber sandwiches.
For $55 per person, it includes four different kinds of finger sandwiches, fruit and scones and four different small desserts. Oh, and your choice of 10 different gourmet teas – or $2 mimosas.
As for brunch, “it’s something we’ve been talking about for a while and are executing now,” Rush said.
“It’s my impression people like to drive north to find a really good, unique brunch,” she said. “We worked very hard on something you wouldn’t find anywhere else.”
In other words, don’t expect a Grand Slam or assembly-line hash browns with scrambled eggs.
Her eclectic mix of cuisines produce dishes like Farmers’ Quiche, with cauliflower, leeks, Brussels sprouts, red potatoes, roasted tomato and mixed green salad; poached eggs with 12-spiced pork bellies and blistered asparagus; praline sourdough French toast with walnuts and salted caramel cream; and two sunny side up eggs with roasted bell peppers and slow-braised traditional machaca beef.
About the only familiar item is chicken and waffles – except they are green tea waffles with lychee syrup.
Rush’s climb to restaurant ownership followed an unusual path.
After moving to the U.S. when she was 18, she ended up in Philadelphia, cutting her restaurant teeth in a city known for a wide variety of innovative kitchens.
She came out west about five years ago and ended up working in Tempe’s landmark House of Tricks – and became a regular patron at My Wine Cellar.
Eventually, she got a job there as general manager, and when former owner Zoya Vora-Shah decided she wanted to do some traveling and get out of the business, Rush was there to buy the bistro.
“I knew I was going to buy it for a while,” she said. “All in all, I feel pretty good about it. I have a great team, which helps a lot.”
About the only thing that caught her off guard when she took over the business is the “bureaucratic B.S., all the office work and the paperwork. I wasn’t anticipating it, the boring stuff.”
But outside the office, Rush feels like the queen of the world.
“This is what I live for, just being able to do it the way I want to do it. I’m extremely grateful for it,” she said. Being able to do it the way she wants has meant some significant changes.
She opened a back patio that looks onto Ahwatukee Country Club’s golf course; created a wine club that gives members discounts on wine as well as previews of
new vintages; slates periodic lectures by experts like California wine maker Carol Shelton, who will speak and offer tastings at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 6; and launched wine classes led by Darla Hoffman, a certified wine specialist and sommelier who lives in Ahwatukee.
Hoffman’s next class begins in a week and if it stays true to the form set by her three previous series, interested people should make a reservation fast.
“We’ve had three and they all sold out,” Rush said, noting the classes appeal to a broad cross section of people “from 21-year-olds to retired folks.”
“They all become friends and drink together at the bar after class,” Rush said. Rush hasn’t stopped thinking of other enhancements to the operation.
Besides getting the word out that My Wine Cellar is a place to consider for a leisurely Saturday late-morning or earlyafternoon experience, she aims to put the restaurant on a bigger stage.
“I want to make it a destination place,” she said.
Reservations are required for high tea and recommended for brunch. More information: 480-598-9463 or MyWineCellarPHX.com.
(Special to AFN)
My Wine Cellar owner Shannon Rush has introduced high tea and brunch at the Ahwatukee restaurant on Saturdays.
Wags & Bags Cornhole Festival helps vets, dogs
GETOUT STAFF
People have a chance to help military veterans and brutalized dogs and have a good time in the process at the second annual Bags & Wags Cornhole Festival in Ahwatukee this weekend.
The festival, noon to 7 p.m. at Ahwatukee Park, 4700 E. Warner Road, will feature Pedal Haus beer, Tito’s cocktails, local food vendors, live music, dunk tank, silent auction 50/50 raffle and, of course, professional and social cornhole games. The entry fee is $5.
Cornhole is a lawn game in which players take turns throwing bags of corn or beans at a raised platform with a hole in the far end.
All money raised at the event will benefit Valley Dogs Rescue and Vets and Their Pets.
“The Wags & Bags Festival was born out of desire to raise money in a fun way that brings people together,” said event coordinator Marci Miller. “We
ran a very successful golf tournament, Fore the Dogs, for years, but finding golfers and sponsors was getting more difficult.
“We came up with the idea of a cornhole, or bags, tournament as an alternative. Anyone can play bags. You don’t need clubs and you don’t have to commit to a five-hour round,” Miller added.
After Ahwatukee Swim and Tennis agreed to provide the venue, the Wags & Bags Festival was born, attracting 400 guests and raising over $25,000.
Miller hopes to double that this year.
“It was pretty amazing for our first year,” she said. “Our main sponsors, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Pedal Haus Brewery, came back this year, which shows the power this event has. This year we expect a bigger crowd and to raise even more money.”
Valley Dogs Rescue, a 15-year-old organization, helps the most at-risk dogs find homes. It has no facility and no paid employees.
“All of our resources go directly to
helping the animals, which is one of the things that attracted us to them,” Miller said. “Our volunteers foster the dogs until they can be placed. The closest thing we have to a facility is our weekly adoption event at PetSmart on Highland Avenue every Saturday.”
The dogs come from a variety of sources, she said, adding, “Sometimes we’re notified of stray, mistreated, or abandoned dogs, sometimes owners surrender their dogs to us and other times we rescue dogs from the euthanasia list at local shelters.”
Vets and Their Pets started during the housing crisis, when veterans were hit especially hard.
“They often ended up in transitional housing and couldn’t keep their pets. They are very emotionally attached to their pets and would refuse housing to stay with their pets. That’s not acceptable to us. When we learn about these situations, we help with boarding or financial assistance to ensure they don’t lose their pets,” Miller said.
Information: wagsandbags.org
Celebrate Easter at the world’s largest outdoor pageant
Every year, the LDS Mesa Arizona Temple celebrates Easter with a pageant titled “Jesus The Christ.” However, this isn’t your typical small-scale church pageant or sunrise service dramatic reading.
While it started as a small sunrise service on a cotton wagon in 1928, 89 years later it is, according to the pageant website, “the largest annual outdoor Easter Pageant in the world.”
A cast of 475 people, a production staff of 400 and multiple animals bring the story of Jesus Christ to life in a professionally produced 65-minute production that covers Jesus’ ministry, death and resurrection.
Expect music and singing, choreographed dance, an elaborate set, period costumes and even special effects. Speaking of costumes, a costume staff spends the entire year researching, designing and creating period costumes to reflect the first century A.D. setting.
The text for the pageant comes from the King James Bible, and, according to the website, “is written and presented for all faiths, cultures, religions and ages.”
And, obligingly, people from all faiths, cultures, religions and ages from around the world show up. Attendance at this popular event ranges from 5,000 to 13,000 people per showing.
If you want to avoid the largest crowds, definitely aim to attend one of the performances prior to Easter weekend. Performances take place Wednesday to Friday, April 5-7 and Tuesday to Saturday, April 11-15. Each showing begins at 8 p.m.
There will also be a Spanish-language performance on Saturday, April 8. However, at every performance there will be a limited number of headsets that offer English-toSpanish and Spanish-to-English translation. For those who require ASL translation, translators will be there for the April 5-8 performances.
To get one of the 9,500 seats, the pageant website recommends arriving at least one hour early for the first week’s performances, and two hours early in the second week. The visitor’s center will be open and hosting free guided tours during that time. You can also bring snack-type food to eat.
As a side note, the seats are metal and
potentially cold at night, so the organizers recommend bringing blankets or cushions. If the seats are full, you can also bring a blanket or lawn chair and sit on the grass. Admission is free and donations will not be accepted.
As the website explains, “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints presents the pageant as an Easter celebration and a gift to the community.”
IF YOU GO
Where: Mesa Arizona Temple, 525 E. Main St, Mesa
When: 8 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, April 5-7 and Tuesday-Saturday, April 11-15
Cost: Free
More info: easterpageant.org
(Special to AFN)
The Mormon Temple in Mesa presents the world’s largest Easter Pageant, drawing thousands of spectators from around the world.
20th Annual Chamber Masters CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
Ahwatukee professor’s Project Humanities at ASU to debut song
2201 E. Clubhouse Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85048 Friday, April 28th
6:30 am Registra�on and Warm-Up
7:30 am Shot Gun Start 12:30 pm Auc�on and Awards
Luncheon,
The Arizona State University Project Humanities, founded and led by an Ahwatukee man, will present a free “music and social movements concert” that will unveil one of the final songs written by the late songwriter and guitar player Dick Wagner.
Dick Wagner’s “Humanity,” produced by another music icon, Bobby Taylor, is “a musical plea for tolerance, peace, empathy and creativity,” said Neal Lester, Project Humanities founder and ASU Foundation Professor of English.
The concert is 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, April 7, at Sun Studios of Arizona, 1425 W. 14th St., Tempe. People can register to attend at musicandsocialmovements. eventbrite.com.
Wagner, who died in 2014, was known for collaborations with Alice Cooper, Aerosmith, Kiss and Lou Reed. Project Humanities facilitates conversations across diverse communities to build understanding through talking, listening, and connecting.
Five months before Wagner died, Lester invited him to present a seminar, “An Evening with Dick Wagner” at his Humanity 101 class. Wagner was
so impressed by the Humanity 101 principles and objectives that he wrote a song called “Humanity (Love Is in the Air).”
He recorded a casual demo and forwarded it to Lester, who wanted Wagner to record, present and perform it as part of his planned ASU seminar.
Last year, Lester continued to pursue his desire to record the song and finally contacted Bobby Taylor, the legendary Motown singer and producer who discovered Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 and produced the first seven Jackson 5 albums.
Lester got Taylor, 82, to come to Arizona from his home in Hong Kong.
Susan Michelson assembled a group of top Phoenix-based session players and booked two of the best recording studios in Phoenix. With what Lester calls “a conception of rock and roll meets R&B meets gospel,” she brought in a group of gospel singers and the song was recorded last October.
“Bobby Taylor flawlessly sang the exquisite, powerhouse lead vocal in only two takes,” Lester said.
Five featured artists will perform at the Friday event, including Gina Fletcher, poet Leah Marche, PressPlay, Jennifer Robinson and Don Guillory.
Presented by
Shirt & Photo Booth SponsorLunch Sponsor
GETOUT STAFF
(Deanna Dent/Special to AFN)
Legendary Motown singer-producer Bobby Taylor was photopgraphed last fall laying down a version of the late Dick Wagner’s song “Humanity,” which will debut Friday in Tempe.
BY DAVID M. BROWN AFN CONTRIBUTOR
Three Tempe residents are helping to repeat history on stage so people don’t repeat it in life.
A married couple, Joel Birch and Adriana “Addy” Diaz, and Arizona State University student John Batchan are bringing “The Scottsboro Boys” to the Phoenix Theatre Wednesday, April 5, through April 30.
A co-production of Phoenix Theatre and the Phoenix-based Black Theatre Troupe, the sharp-edged musical combines gospel, jazz and vaudeville in retelling the true story of the nine African-American young men jailed in 1931 and for crimes they did not commit. Eight were sentenced to death.
Michael Barnard is the producing artistic director for Phoenix Theatre, and David J. Hemphill is executive director at the Black Theatre Troupe, the only professional African-American theater company in the Four Corners states.
With lyrics and music by John Kander
and Fred Ebb, the work is one of the last from the great songwriting pair. The show premiered off-Broadway in February 2010 and on Broadway in October later that year.
The black youths, several white males and two white women were hoboing on a Southern Railway train traveling through Tennessee on March 25, 1931.
The women, Victoria Price and Ruby Bates, told a posse member they had been raped by the youths. No evidence was established, but the African Americans were tried in Alabama, where they were arrested. All but Roy Wright, 12, received the death penalty.
The Scottsboro Boys case exemplified the virulent racism of the times, especially in the South. Clarence Darrow, the great defense lawyer, was almost retained for the defense, and Samuel Leibowitz, another high-profile lawyer, was lead counsel for the retrials.
The case was marred by hurried trials with all-white juries, inadequate legal representation, mobs outside the jail and the courtroom, lynching threats, the Ku Klux Klan and the Communist Party, and machine gun-carrying National Guardsmen.
Two U.S. Supreme Court appeals ensued.
Years later, the men were acquitted or pardoned – one by Gov. George Wallace in 1976 and three posthumously in 2013 by the Alabama Board of
Jo Anne, 80
(Special to AFN)
Joel Birch and Adriana “Addy” Diaz, seen here with their 19-month-old son, are both working on the production of “The Scottsboro Boys.”
from page 51
Pardons and Paroles.
As the show’s technical director for Phoenix Theatre, Birch builds the environment for the action.
“It’s important to create the vision of the director and designer as perfectly as we possibly can. This one has to be particularly perfect as there is not a lot of scenery,” said Birch, a Scottsdale native who moved to New York City to pursue acting.
“Not to say we don’t always strive for perfection, but the low number of pieces means my artists can really focus on the precision of their work,” he added.
A contracted Phoenix Theatre associate, Diaz is the show’s costume designer.
“This show deals with a lot of racially charged issues. That makes it a hard show to work on, costumewise, because you are making choices that make yourself uncomfortable, let alone the audience,” said Diaz, who holds a bachelor’s degree in theater from the University of Tulsa and a master’s in fine art specializing in costume design from the University of Maryland.
“Because the set is very minimal, a lot of the visual storytelling of our racist past comes from the costumes and the props used in the show,” she said.
She noted that the story is told by a plantation owner and two clowns from the minstrel show tradition of the 19th century, which, when enacted by whites, stereotyped blacks.
“But that is the point,” she added, “to really show a mirror on our past and possibly illuminate our future.”
Birch and Diaz met at Phoenix Theatre in 2006. Diaz was an intern in the costume shop and Birch an assistant technical director.
“I had a barbecue at my home in Tempe, and almost all of the production crew were there, interns included,” he recalled.
“Addy is a beautiful girl, and we liked similar things. One thing led to another and I made her laugh and she spit pineapple juice all over me and we ignited our love in my back yard playing, bowling with friends and eating pineapple out of the can.”
They married in 2013 and have a 19-month-old, Jackson William Birch.
Batchan, born and raised in Phoenix,
is a junior in ASU’s Music Theatre program on the Tempe campus.
He plays Eugene Williams, who was 12 when the Scottsboro Boys were arrested.
“There’s still so much for me to learn, but, regardless, I simply want the story to be heard,” Batchan said, adding:
“I want people to realize that this musical was based off a true American tragedy. I want them to question, research and learn from this story. It’s shocking to me that rarely anyone, including myself, has ever heard of The Scottsboro Boys.
“You’d think such a story would be remembered. Apparently not, and if takes a musical to keep that story alive, so be it.”
Every performance includes a postshow discussion led by moderators provided by the ASU Center for the Study of Race and Democracy to explore the show’s themes.
In addition, three community panel discussions are free and open to the public.
They are “Understanding Minstrel Theatre,” April 8, 6 p.m., moderated by Colleen Jennings-Roggensack, executive director of ASU Gammage and ASU vice president for cultural
affairs in Tempe; “Arts Inspiring Justice,” April 15, 6 p.m., moderated by Alberto Reyes-Olivas, executive director, Pastor Center for Politics and Public Service; and “Community Action = Community Hope,” April 22, 6 p.m., moderated by Kermit Brown, instructor, ASU College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.
“The case today is very important, especially considering the studies done on the American penal system and the impact on African-American men,” said Jennings-Roggensack, an Ahwatukee resident.
“Anytime we can bring to light injustice in this country, in particular, to the theater as an open forum for a wider range of people, it is important.” Birch grew up in a predominantly white neighborhood and works in the opened-minded world of theater, so “The Scottsboro Boys” offers him unique poignancy.
“Shows like this can help people like me see what can happen if that kind of hatred is not fought every day,” he said. “This show helped me feel a sense of diligence that I be more aware and do my part to make racism a part of our history and not a part of our future.” Tickets start at $30 and are available at 602-254-2151 or phoenixtheatre.com.
Tobias General Manager
Country Thunder corrals the best new and established talent
BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARANSINSKI GETOUT CONTRIBUTOR
While superstars like Thomas Rhett, Dierks Bentley, Blake Shelton and Chris Young headline Country Thunder this month, a slew of up-and-comers support the big names between Thursday, April 6, and Sunday, April 9, at Canyon Moon Ranch in Florence. Those include Frankie Ballard and Gunnar and the Grizzly Boys, both of whom are using the festival to show fans what they’ve got.
Frankie Ballard
Growing up in Battle Creek, Michigan, Frankie Ballard was inspired by the likes of Bob Seger. Recently, Ballard found success with his cover of the Silver Bullet Band frontman’s song “You’ll Accomp’ny Me.”
“My music is that classic combination of blues and country,” Ballard said via telephone from Texas. “There is definitely a lot of country influence up there (in Michigan).
“There are blues and country
influences even in Detroit. I know I was inspired by people like Bob Seger and Stevie Wonder.”
He’s promoting “El Rio,” his third studio album, which includes “It All Started with a Beer” and “Cigarette.”
Ballard found a woman to accompany him; he married Christina Murphy in March, but that’s not stopping him from Country Thunder. He performs at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8.
“Those big festivals are really exciting for me,” he said. “I work really hard to get people see me play year-round. That’s why I look at Country Thunder as a big opportunity to try to show them what we’re doing.
“It’s an energy that’s different than an energy in a club or theater. Even if the place is packed, with that many people, it’s like a club but on steroids – the stage is bigger, the energy is bigger, everything is bigger.”
He compensates for that with an energetic show.
“I feel God gave me an extra gear or something,” said Ballard, who is based in Nashville. “I have a lot of spare energy.
I love to be out there running and gunning.
“I love getting on stage more and more every day. I really feel like there is a lot of music left in me to be made. I don’t feel I’m the best version of myself. I’m getting better. I feel great about it. I’m so blessed to make music for a living.”
Gunnar and the Grizzly Boys
Grand Rapids, Michigan-bred Gunnar Nyblad works hard. When he’s not at his 9-to-5 job in Nashville, where he and his wife reside with their newborn, he’s happy being on the road pushing his band, Gunnar and the Grizzly Boys.
His band is performing at Country Thunder at 2:30 p.m. Friday, April 7.
“I was opening for Jerrod Niemann at Livewire in Scottsdale a little ways back,” Nyblad said. “Everyone told me, ‘You have to play Country Thunder.’
Lo and behold, we’re playing it. We’ve done a couple festivals for the same company. I think it’s going to be a really good show.”
Nyblad sees Country Thunder as a way of cracking the national market.
“Hopefully we can fill the stands and make some good noise,” he said. “That proves a lot. We are one of the most energetic bands. We jump around a bit. We’re closer to a rock show than a country concert.
“Country music is a little wild, as Sam Hunt or Florida Georgia Line are always jumping around. We have a little poppunk influence and add to that our love of Bob Seger.”
Nyblad said he expects to hang out at the merchandise table to meet and greet fans.
“We’re just a hard-working band,” he said. “We work as hard as we can on the weekends to entertain people. We’re juggling as many balls as we can with work and the pursuit of this band.”
IF YOU GO
Where: Canyon Moon Ranch, 20585 E. Price (Station) Road, Florence
When: Thursday, April 6 to Sunday, April 9.
Cost: $50-$190.
Info: countrythunder.com
From Bowie to ‘Batare,’ Valley acts abound this weekend
BY JUSTIN FERRIS GET OUT EDITOR
Hale slates Army comedy
“No Time for Sergeants” tells the story of lovable hillbilly Will Stockdale, who gets drafted into the Army Air Corps (the precursor to the Air Force) and sets his sights instead on serving in the infantry. His journey turns the Air Corps upside down in this hilarious play.
DETAILS>> Thursdays-Saturdays, April 6-May 13. Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. Tickets: $18-$30. 480-497-1181. haletheatrearizona.com.
Bataré featured
Mix a timeless story, visceral taiko drumming, orchestral-like progressive rock and jaw-dropping choreography, and you
get the acclaimed show Bataré. DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 7. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Tickets: $35-$45. tempe.gov.
‘The Fantasticks’ comes to town
The world’s longest-running musical, The Fantasticks tells a classic boy-meetsgirls story where the couple endures disapproving fathers, heartache and other obstacles before the happy ending. You’ll also hear plenty of catchy tunes.
DETAILS>> Thursdays-Sundays, April 7-23. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. Tickets: $31 adults, $28 students and seniors. 480-644-6500. mesaartscenter.com.
Lantern Fest glows
If you loved that scene in Disney’s “Tangled” with the floating lanterns, you won’t want to miss this popular annual event. Enjoy music, dancing, food and s’mores, and then release a glowing lantern into the night along with thousands of others.
DETAILS>> 2 p.m., Saturday, April 8. Schnepf Farms, 24610 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. Tickets: $40-$50 adults, $7 ages 4-12. thelanternfest.com.
Global Village Fest arrives
This event celebrates the varied cultures in the Gilbert area through dance, music, arts and crafts, ethnic foods and fun activities. Bicyclists are encouraged to ride to the festival as there will be plenty of spaces to park bikes.
DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, April 8. Gilbert Civic Center, 50 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert. Cost: Free. gilbertaz.gov/ globalvillage.
‘Grumpiest Boy’ is magical
Completely average boy Zachary wants to stand out in some way in “The Grumpiest Boy on Earth.” So, he takes a magical journey to find a place he can be special. How will his journey end? Find out in this new Childsplay production aimed at kids ages 5 and older.
DETAILS>> Weekends, April 8-9, 15-16. Tempe Center for the Arts, 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe. Tickets: $12-$26. tempe.gov.
Recycled Percussion entertains
Known for their “junk rock” style, these Vegas headliners bring their unique sound to the Valley. Watch them create an energetic and unforgettable performance from pieces of junk, power tools, everyday objects, and unique sets and costumes.
DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 8. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets: $32. 480-782-2680. chandlercenter.org.
Bowie music presented
Classic Albums Live aims to present classic albums “note for note – cut for cut,” without gimmicks, just the music. Now they tackle the music of the late David Bowie, specifically the album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.”
DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 8. Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave., Chandler. Tickets: $26$38. 480-782-2680. chandlercenter.org.
King Crossword
ACROSS
1 Scrooge’s cry
4 Astronaut Grissom
7 Indiana politico Bayh
11 Egg
13 Fire residue
14 Predicate part
15 Thin tie with a clasp
16 Shelter, at sea
17 Corp. bigwig
18 Honey bunch?
20 Rhett’s shocking word
22 Fresh
24 Shortcoming
28 Custodian
32 Broadcasting
33 PC picture
34 Set of tools and parts
36 Singer Campbell
37 Naval prisons
39 Own
41 Rachmaninov or Prokofiev
43 -- -jongg
44 Volcanic outflow
46 Luxury boat
50 Bullets and such
53 Autumn mo.
55 Entrance
56 Serve tea
57 Pi follower
58 Napoleon’s exile site
59 Nervous
60 Evergreen type
61 Plaything
DOWN
1 Goes up and down
2 Acknowledge
3 Hawaiian dance
4 Guy’s partner
5 Secondhand
6 Bundle of wheat
7 1990s Burt Reynolds sitcom
8 Annoy
9 Exist
10 Peacock network
12 Trumpet-shaped flower
19 Encountered
21 Cow’s call
23 Stir-fry pan
25 Hay bundle
26 Falsehoods
27 Sea eagles
28 Triangular sails
29 Land measure
30 Black (Fr.)
31 Tear
35 Male cat
38 Caribbean, for one
40 Express
42 Tusk material
45 Liniment target
47 Stallion, as a child
48 Vagrant
49 Salver
50 Gorilla 51 Chic, in the ‘60s 52 Coffee holder 54 AAA job
Sudoku
Secret sauce enhances tasty Grandma’s Brisket
BY JAN D’ATRI AFN Contributor
You know television anchor Mark Curtis from KPNX Channel 12. But there’s another star in his household – his wife’s grandma’s brisket!
This fall-apart fork-tender brisket is a family favorite in the Curtis family for a holiday or Passover meal. The recipe actually comes from Abby Curtis’ Grandma Suzy, and the big surprise in this recipe is the coffee, wonderful because it tones down the saltiness and adds a rich flavor when it’s mixed with ketchup, and the coffee also tenderizes the brisket. For Passover or Sunday Supper, this is it!
Watch the how-to video at jandatri. com/recipes/brisket/?category_id=384
GRANDMA SUZY’S BRISKET
Ingredients:
3-4 lb (first cut) trimmed brisket
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 sweet yellow onions, sliced in rounds 1-1/2 cups fresh-brewed strong coffee
1-1/2 cups ketchup
3-4 tablespoons Montreal Steak Seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon pepper
2 cups baby carrots
8 mini potatoes
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Season brisket by patting and rubbing Montreal Steak Seasoning on both sides of brisket. Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder and pepper. Drizzle olive oil into Dutch oven, roasting pan or large oven safe skillet. On high heat, brown brisket on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
Remove brisket. Reduce heat to medium high and cook onions with drippings until just softened, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Wisk together coffee and ketchup. Remove the onions or move them to one side of the pan.
Return the brisket to the Dutch oven fat side up and arrange the onions over the brisket. Add carrots and mini potatoes.
Pour the coffee-andketchup mixture over the brisket.
Cook for 2- 1/2 hours or until tender, basting occasionally. Slice the brisket and smother it with the onions, carrots, potatoes and gravy.
(Special to AFN)
Grandma Suzy’s Brisket is a family favorite for holidays or any occasion.
Local professional ballplayers finish spring, ready for season
BY JASON P. SKODA AFN Prep Sports Director
The audition that is spring training has come to an end, and Ahwatukee ballplayers did their part to impress, get noticed and do everything they can to prepare for the 2017 season.
Several former Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe ballplayers will find out their starting point for the 2017 season in the days to come.
C.J. Cron, Mountain Pointe High, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
The Angels brought in Luis Valbuena, who swings a powerful left-handed bat at and can play third and first base, during the offseason. The move was expected to push Cron to the bench even though he set career highs in almost every offensive category after hitting .278 with 25 doubles, 16 home runs with 69 RBIs in 116 games.
Valbuena sustained a hamstring injury last week that will sideline him four to six weeks.
Cron, who missed a chunk of last season after a hit by pitch broke his hand, is back to being the man at first base to start 2017. He entered the last week of spring hitting .293 with seven doubles, one home run and 11 RBIs.
“Hopefully, he’s grown as a hitter and matured,” Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. “He’ll certainly be getting a lot of those at-bats at first base right now.”
Kevin Cron, Mountain Pointe High, Arizona Diamondbacks, first base
The 24-year-old single-season homerun leader for Arizona high schools hit one in spring training this year in five at-bats.
It’s a continuation of the power stroke the 6-foot-5, 245-pounder has shown since being selected in the 14th round out of Texas Christian.
He has 65 career home runs in 331 games over two and half seasons with 26 of those bombs coming last year in Double-A.
He also hit .222 for Mobile a year ago, so he has hopes of getting closer to the .272 average he had in 2015, when he it 27 home runs for Single A Visalia.
Jaycob Brugman, Desert Vista High, Oakland A’s, outfielder
The BYU product had a big 2016 season that put him on the verge of a big-league call-up.
Brugman, who was 3 for 9 with two RBIs in eight spring training games,
received a promotion from Double-A to Triple-A and posted better numbers.
The 25-year-old left-handed-swinging outfielder hit .295 with a .352 on-base percentage in 93 games compared to .261 and .335 in Double-A in 38 games. He had a combined 33 doubles, seven triples and 12 home runs with 87 RBIs.
He will return to Nashville and Triple-A pitching while being on the short list of major-league call-ups for the As.
“Exactly what guys in development have told me is that he’s a gamer, sticks his nose in there, has tough at-bats, gets big hits, understands how to play center field,” A’s manager Bob Melvin said early in spring training. “He had a really good year last year and deserves to be here and deserves to get a hard look.”
Tyler Viza, Desert Vista, Philadelphia Phillies, pitcher
The 23-year-old right-hander is expected to return to Double-A Reading after a career year in 2016.
He won a career-high 10 games in 25 starts (9 in Single-A, 6 in Double) to finish his fourth year of pro ball with a 10-8 record and 3.95 ERA with 113 strikeouts and 31 walks in 143 2/3 innings.
Cole Tucker, Mountain Pointe, Pittsburgh Pirates, shortstop
The former first-round pick is projected to begin the year at High-A Bradenton, where he finished the 2016 season.
The 20-year-old is about to begin his third year of pro ball and has been praised for his glove, but his offense was slow to come around last year after coming off a
wrist injury. He hit .238 with 12 doubles, a homer and 25 RBIs in 65 games. One note of concern is the fact the Pirates drafted University of Arizona shortstop Kevin Newman in the first round of the 2015 and he was an offensive force last year in Bradenton before getting promoted to Double-A.
Scott Kingery, Mountain Pointe, Philadelphia Phillies, second base Kingery had to fight for a scholarship. Finally, he got one from UofA and worked himself into the Pac-12 Player of the Year.
The second-round pick of 2015 made his way to Double-A last year and has hit three career home runs in 131 games. This spring with the big-league club, Kingery hit .286 with two home runs in 21 at-bats while flashing a good glove. He’ll probably head back to Double-A Reading.
“I can’t say enough about Kingery,” Phillies manager Pete Mackanin said. “He’s a good-looking player, boy. And, I’ll tell you what, I really like what I see. To be as composed as he is in his first big-league camp after just getting a taste of Double-A. He really has made a great impression.”
Joey Curletta, Mountain Pointe, Seattle Mariners, outfielder Curletta is in a bit of a transition after being traded twice since September. The Dodgers, who took him in the sixth round of the 2012 draft, sent him to the
See SPRING on page 61
Pride boosters plan Military Day for home game
Mountain Pointe High School’s varsity baseball Boosters Club is inviting all veterans and active service personnel to a special Military Day for its game Tuesday, April 11, at the school.
“We would like to honor our military
that day with the ROTC doing the flag ceremony and our choir singing the National Anthem,” said Christy Gallegos, the boosters’ vice president and organizer of the day’s activities. “We are inviting as many active and retired military to this day as possible.”
Gallegos said military personnel
and veterans will hopefully share the club’s excitement about its new coach, saying the team has generated “a lot of excitement and energy around the program this year that we want to highlight.”
She said boosters also are hoping Ahwatukee Little League players and
their parents will turn out for the celebration.
This is the second annual Military Day the club has sponsored.
Although the game starts at 3:45 p.m., ceremonies honoring veterans and military personnel will begin a half hour earlier.
(Special to AFN)
Desert Vista product Jaycob Brugman appears to be on a path to the major leagues after an impressive 2016 took him to Triple-A.
Kayleigh Conlon leads the way at Chandler Rotary
BY JASON P. SKODA AFN Prep Sports Director
Kayleigh Conlon spends most of her days spinning in circles, but not because she lacks direction or drive.
The Mountain Pointe High School senior continues to be one of the top throwers in the state after winning both the shot put and discus state titles as a junior.
She’s back at it again – winning both titles at the 77th annual Chandler Rotary elite division over the weekend.
The Chandler Rotary is always a great litmus test for area competitors with about six weeks left in the regular season.
“It’s been a long process,” she said. “I’ve been getting better, working on my technique, but you don’t really ever perfect it. You are always tweaking and trying to get better. I work all year-round and it’s still never enough.”
Saturday’s efforts were enough as Conlon was one of several local athletes to perform well at the state’s top regular season event.
She won the shot put with a throw of 42 feet to win by nearly two feet and then had a great day in the discus with a personal best distance of 150-7 to blow away the field by 12 feet.
Conlon was named the meet’s field MVP and set the meet record in the discus. She said one of the reasons she loves competing in throws is because she is always chasing that next great throw and increasing her marks.
“Any athlete will tell you they love
competing and getting better,” Conlon said. “It’s what drives you, especially in shot and discus, when it is just you and the distances.”
It is the second straight year that Conlon has doubled up at the Rotary and hopes it is a precursor of things to come at the state meets in May, when she looks to defend her titles.
“There’s a lot more pressure now to get the marks up and try to decide on a college,” she said. “I don’t feel that pressure when I am competing. I just go through my routine and don’t worry about that kind of stuff then, but it can definitely weigh on you if you let it.”
Conlon, who has a top three of Colorado State, Cal State Northridge and Grand Canyon University, proved she can compete free and easy with the personal best in the discus, but came up short this season so far in shot put, where her personal best is 45-8.
“I’ve been working so hard on getting better,” she said. “My (throws) coach Joe Farinella has been a big influence. He’s helped me so much. Now I just have to keep getting better.”
Farinella said he expects Conlon to approach 160 in the discus and 50 in the shot by the end of the year because she has been able to clean up her technique to the point where it is becoming more text book to allow for bigger throws.
“Kayleigh is throwing well because she works hard at the fundamentals of the throw,” he said. “What has made it possible is, like most kids they grasp on one or two things, but build in their own quirks to the technique.
“She has slowly started to erase her own little quirks and getting more efficient with the fundamental throw.”
Desert Vista High distance runner Haley Wolf set a personal best time in winning the 3200 run with a time of 10 minutes 47.42, while junior Jaztyne Griffin was third in the discus with a personal best effort of 129-01 for the Thunder.
Thunder sophomore pole vaulter Sevanna Hanson won the event with height of 12-0, while the top performer on the boys side for Desert Vista was sprinter Ryan Bender, who finished third in the 100 (10.89 seconds) and fourth in the 200 (21.95).
Mountain Pointe had solid performances from horizontal jumper Nura Muhammad, who finished fourth in the long jump with a personal best of 18-08.25, and third in the triple jump at 40-0.05.
Pride sophomore Matthew Pola-Mao finished fifth in the shot with a careerbest throw of 53-01.50 and Brittany Patterson was fifth in the triple jump with a personal best of 30-03.75 and seventh in the long jump (17-04.50).
While others had success at the Rotary, it was Conlon who came away as a double
champion and record holder.
“We are working hard and she has great potential going forward,” Farinella said. “She’s actually blossomed into a good leader. I told her at the beginning of the year that one part of her next phase of her training was to leave the program in a better place than when she started.
“She is doing a good job of it and becoming a good mentor with a great work ethic, good grades and everything you want to see in senior leaders.”
Cubs boost Cactus League attendance, but overall attendance was down
BY JIM WALSH AFN Staff Writer
Fresh off their long-awaited World Series championship, the Chicago Cubs remain the Cactus League’s attendance meal ticket, not only packing Sloan Park but also drawing large crowds at other stadiums across the Phoenix region.
The Cubs drew crowds of more than 15,000 fans at Sloan Park for at least 13 games, including 15,448 for their last game versus the Oakland Athletics on March 29, as hundreds of fans waited in line for the gates to open.
Cactus League statistics through
March 30 reveal the Cubs drew 251,899 fans for 17 games compared with 226,163 in 15 games in 2016, a new Sloan Park record.
Two more games than last year helped swell attendance during a season that started a week earlier than normal to help players prepare for the World Baseball Classic. The record was achieved despite a small drop in attendance per game.
Fan traffic at the gates was much slower for the East Valley’s other two Major League Baseball teams, the Oakland Athletics and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, which both posted small increases from a year ago. The attendance of those two teams combined
still falls considerably short of the Cubs.
Cubs fans also had no problems traveling throughout the Phoenix region to pack other Cactus League venues with a sea of blue, uplifting the entire league. Five teams in the Cactus League hit single-game attendance records when they hosted the Cubs.
“They are still a great draw. It’s a great story, winning the World Series for the first time since 1908,” said Jeff Meyer, the league’s president. “That’s the impact of winning the World Series. When you are a winner, everyone rides the coattails.”
Around the league, other ballparks braced for the Cubs faithful at “road
games” in Goodyear, Peoria and other locations, he said.
“I think everyone was prepared. They anticipated that (the Cubs) would be the best crowd,” Meyer said.
Kris Spiezo, a Cubs fan from Illinois and a teacher on her spring break, was a good example. She flew into Phoenix on a Sunday and attended four Cubs games, at Sloan Park and at Goodyear Ballpark.
“We were at Goodyear the other day. Sloan Park wins it,” Spiezo said, citing a better design, with more lawn seating and larger scoreboard that can be seen
(AFN File Photo)
Mountain Pointe High School senior Kayleigh Conlon keeps setting new standards. Her 2016 personal best in the discus of 144-0 in 2016 is now up to 150-07.
throughout the ballpark.
“Wherever the Cubs are, we’re going to be there. We’re going to Milwaukee this summer,” she said.
Despite the enthusiasm of Spiezo and other happy Cubs fans, preliminary league statistics, through the March 30 games, show a slight drop in attendance per game at Sloan and most other ballparks. One notable exception was the Cleveland Indians, who lost to the Cubs in the World Series and also set an attendance record.
The Cubs’ average attendance was down to 14,818 per game, compared with the lofty average of 15,078 in 2016.
The Cactus League as a whole had drawn nearly 1.9 million fans, with only a few more games remaining. Meyer was hoping the last few games would push the league to a new attendance record. The league average was 7,527 per game this year compared with 8,264 a year ago.
Meyer cited the early start in February because of the World Baseball Classic and warmer-than-normal temperatures during part of March as possible reasons
Cubs fans wait in long lines to enter Sloan Park in Mesa for a Cactus League game. Despite the lines and a new overall attendance record, per-game attendance was down for the Cubs.
for a dip in league attendance. He said he has noticed fans taking refuge on concourses to avoid the sun, with some parks offering little shade.
“I think there’s some soul-searching going on about what we can do” to add shade, Meyer said.
But fans tended to cite rising ticket prices as a reason for sagging attendance. Some Cubs fans chose to attend games at other stadiums rather than paying the higher prices at Sloan.
Phil Landis of Reno, Nevada, still brought his family of four to Sloan
Park for two games to see the Cubs. But Landis said the cost of tickets makes it a bit painful and triggers for some hard choices.
Last year, only two family members came to the games because of the prices.
“It’s a lot of money. That’s a big part of it,” Landis said.
Landis said he still thinks coming is worth it, especially with the games serving as a family outing, but the cost “makes it harder.”
Besides the Cubs, the traditional attendance leaders dominated, including the Diamondbacks, the San Francisco Giants and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
In the East Valley, the Oakland Athletics were drawing an average of 6,012 fans per game in 2017, compared with 6,708 in 2016, at Mesa’s Hohokam Stadium. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim were drawing an average of 6,752 per game, compared with 7,552 per game in 2016, at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
The Angels and A’s attendance is slight compared to that of the powerhouse Cubs. The Angels drew 114,780 in 2017 compared to 112, 826 in 2016. The A’s drew 102,212 in 2017, compared to 100,614 in 2016.
UPGRADE TO A SMART GARAGE
(Jim Walsh/AFN Staff)
Thunder boys volleyball has new coach, but same winning combo
BY JASON P. SKODA AFN Prep Sports Director
The Desert Vista High School boys volleyball team may have a new coach, but it hasn’t lost its stride on the court.
Clay Webb is running the program, replacing Ryan Tolman, who went to Perry High.
The annual trip to La Jolla, California, the Brophy Invitational and fifth-year senior Evan Johnson are still very much part of the Thunder’s program as the team prepares for the second half of the season. And, as far as Webb is concerned, the team will retain its status as one of the best in Arizona.
“Desert Vista has been a high-profile program for many years,” Webb said. “It’s something we plan on continuing. Things have gone well so far, and I like the depth we are creating. It’s important in keeping the program where it belongs.”
The Thunder entered this week 12-7 overall and 6-3 in power-point matches after finishing fifth at the Brophy Invite.
The transition has gone well with Webb, who was Mountain Pointe High School’s
boys volleyball coach two years ago and has coached club at Aspire, where many of the Thunder players are members.
“A lot of the players starting are new, so it has gone pretty good,” senior Dane Cunningham said, noting the players “didn’t have a lot” of history with Tolman, “so we have a good connection with” their new coach.
Much of that connection developed over spring break, when the team headed to California for the BCI Tournament at La Jolla High.
The Thunder finished third at a difficult tournament and offered an opportunity to get out of normal routine and practice in order to bond.
“California was amazing for us,” Webb said. “We came back a different team and not just because we finished third with our only loss coming against the team eventually won the whole thing. It was a huge trip for us. We had a chance to really bond and grow as a team.”
The Thunder entered this week with nine more matches in the regular season to close the gap between them and the top teams of 2017 – including Perry, Brophy, Boulder Creek and Chandler –
EasterBRUNCH
before the postseason arrives.
They made some big strides, considering players Mason Harberston and Landon Fuller began the year in new positions. Moreover, the team had to wait for Johnson and Mountain Pointe transfer Peter Pataki, who became eligible last week, to have a complete roster.
“I think we have progressed a lot and the team has meshed,” Cunningham said. “We should have done better (at Brophy) but we had some slip-ups. We really have potential to be good. We need to find some consistency. We go on runs and all of a sudden, it’s not there.
“We need to be able to close out matches against the good teams. We can play with them but haven’t been able to finish it.”
One thing that wasn’t finished was the career of Johnson, who was granted an additional year of eligibility by the AIA after missing the 2015 season fighting cancer.
His presence on the team as the libero has been something Webb believes inspires the Thunder to be at their best.
“He is the heart and soul of the team,” Webb said. “He’s such a great motivator. You know everything he has been through and he still has a great attitude. It’s been great having him part of the team.”
Johnson, who had a tumor in his right femur and returned to the team last year, thinks the team can be a force by the end of the year.
“We definitely have the potential,” he said. “We can contend with the really good teams. Brophy is undefeated and we were really close with them. We beat some good teams in California. When we put it all together we can play with anyone. We just have to do it more often.”
SUNDAY, APRIL 16 • 10AM - 2PM
(Special to AFN)
Desert Vista has played well in its first season under coach Clay Webb as the Thunder entered the week at 18-7.
‘Night bloomers’ give back in the darkness
BY RICK SAVAGIAN AFN Guest Writer
When flowers are in bloom, we automatically think of the sun shining down on a warm, bright day.
But even in nature, not everything is what you think. There is a group of flowers known as “night bloomers.”
Rarely talked about, and rarely seen unless you are a botany enthusiast, these moon blossoms have adapted out of survival instinct to opening themselves up at night.
It seems that they prefer to be pollinated by moths and bats. They don’t want to deal with the scorching sun or evaporation process most evident during the daytime heating.
It is said that the most beautiful flowers in the world will choose to bloom at night. Then, like clockwork, they close back up at the dawning of a new day.
These groups of night-blooming flowers are wired differently than the
SPRING
from page 56
Phillies in the Carlos Ruiz-for-A.J. Ellis trade at the end of last season.
On March 12, Philadelphia sent him to Seattle after he going 1 for 9 this spring. It’s tough to tell where he’ll end up in 2017 considering he has been with the organization for just two weeks. He rose to Double-A last year with the Dodgers where he hit .206 with four homers and 16 RBI in 29 games.
Jordan Kipper, Mountain Pointe, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
The big right-hander had a great 2016 as he threw a no-hitter on the way to being named the organization’s minor league pitcher of the year.
The 6-4, 184-pounder struggled a bit in the rarefied air of the California League, which is known for inflated ERAs, in 2015 as he went 6-12 with 5.63 ERA in 26 starts. Despite that he
rest of the bunch.
The majority of flower sniffers will not even be aware that they exist. There are those who remain watchful, waiting for them to make their fragrant appearance.
It has been over 40 years that I have taught over 11,000 students for the sake of making them productive students in our society and having them contribute to making our world a better and safe place.
Today, out of those thousands of students, there are a few who have come back say, “I too want to make a difference in the world as you have in mine.”
I can only look and smile and knowing that less than one percent of the many I have taught. They, too, are wired differently and are to be “night bloomers.”
They will be the select few giving in the darkness, while so many others will be getting notice in the brightness of the day.
-Rick Savagian is the founder of Mountainside Martial Arts Center, 3173 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Reach him at 480-759-4540 or mountainsidemartialarts.com
was promoted to Double-A last season and responded with a 12-7 with 3.35 ERA in 25 starts with 85 strikeouts and 41 walks in 153 innings.
A return to Double-A is likely with a good start possibly leading to Triple-A in his third full season of pro ball.
OPEN POSITIONS:
- Lifeguards* - Swim Instructors* - Membership Service Representatives - Camp Site Directors - Teen Camp Counselors - Child Care & Camp Counselors
HIRING
Where? Ahwatukee YMCA
When? Wednesday April 12, 2017
4 pm - 6:30 pm
Interviewers will be held every 30 minutes on the hour & half hour.
What? Please come prepared with your resume including 3 references. TO RSVP & save your spot, email: aemkeit@vosymca.org
(Special to AFN)
The Philadelphia Phillies are high on former Mountain Pointe star Scott Kingery.
National Walking Day: Get walking and get healthy
BY DR. THOMAS BIUSO
AFN Guest Writer
Today, April 5, is National Walking Day. Everyone should put on their shoes, hit the pavement and experience the many health benefits of walking – which may be one of the simplest and best ways to exercise.
The American Heart Association established National Walking Day – the first Wednesday in April – in 2007, and since then has encouraged individuals, schools, workplaces and communities to get out and walk for at least 30 minutes and put themselves on the road to better health.
Most people know walking is good for their health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity –or an equivalent combination each week. And, as the CDC reminds us, walking doesn’t require special skills, a gym membership or expensive gear.
Research has shown that walking can improve people’s health by helping them maintain a healthy weight, prevent and manage conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, strengthen bones, ward off depression, and improve balance and coordination.
New technologies such as activity trackers – coupled with incentive-based wellness programs – may make walking even more fun, social and rewarding.
These innovative approaches are urgent because, according to the World Health Organization, two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese. A McKinsey report suggests the nation loses $225 billion in lost productivity each year due to personal and family health problems.
In Arizona, 28.9 percent of the adult population is considered obese with a body mass index of 30 or more, according to United Health Foundation’s America’s Health Rankings. What better reason and more social way to help people get moving and on track for better health than to literally take that first step?
An estimated 70 percent of employers
already offer wellness programs, and 8 percent more plan to do so during the next year, according to the Society for Human Resource Management. Employers nationwide are expected to incorporate more than 13 million activity trackers into their wellness programs by 2018, according to technology consultancy Endeavors Partners.
That’s important, considering a study in Science & Medicine showed people tend to overestimate how much exercise they get each week by more than 50 minutes, and they underestimate sedentary time by more than two hours. People who use wearable devices may be better able to monitor and hold themselves accountable for their physical activity.
In Arizona, employers and employees can enroll in UnitedHealthcare Motion, a wellness program in collaboration with Qualcomm Life that links financial incentives to the use of activity trackers. By meeting walking benchmarks related to frequency (300 steps in five minutes; six times a day), intensity (3,000 steps in 30 minutes), and tenacity (10,000+ total daily steps), program
participants can earn financial incentives of up to $1,500 per year.
What does 10,000 steps a day look like?
To help celebrate this year’s National Walking Day, UnitedHealthcare has launched an online map that takes users on a walking tour of the United States, 10,000 steps at a time. This interactive rollover map highlights the health benefits of walking a minimum of five miles each day (approximately 10,000 steps), and helps people visualize what that distance looks like in cities nationwide, including the Phoenix area.
So, this National Walking Day, go take a walk!
- By Dr. Thomas Biuso is the medical director
Classifieds
D-Backs season ticket holder wishes to share 2017 tickets Season ticket cost
Multi-games pref Diamond section 209, aisle seats 1-2 Great view, EZ access, in-seat food opt, near all amenities Cell/Text 480-363-2798 or tomrob1@cox net
Hosp bed: $285 Jazzy electric wheelchair: $325 Hoyerlift: $185 Lift chair: $185 480-215-8101
POWER MOWER
Briggs & Stratton 550 Series 21" cut/rear bag mulching mower $125 480-332-4036
PRIDE CELEBRITY X SCOOTER
4 wheel
Weight cap: 350 lbs
Employment General
Landscape laborers, 30 temporary full-time positions
Duties: Laborers will be needed for turf care, pruning, fertilization, irrigation system maintenance and repair, general clean up and installation of mortarless segmental concrete masonry wall units Work in the outdoors Physical work 3 months landscape EXP REQ No EDU REQ
Days & Hours: 40 hours/week (6:00am-2:30pm); day shift; Mon-Fri Dates of employment: 04/18/1710/31/17 Wage: $11 47/h, OT $17 61/h if necessary Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance OJT provided
Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, to the extent necessary, lodging) to the place of employment will be provided or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is dismissed early by the employer Employer will provide workers at no charge all tools, equipment and supplies required to perform the job Job location: Chandler, AZ - Maricopa and Pinal counties
Applicants may send or contact the AZDES Office, 4635 S Central Ave Phoenix AZ 85040 Desirae Diaz ph:520-866- 3608 Please reference AZDES Job Order #: 2559141
Employer: SiteWorks Landscape Development, LLC 2915 W Fairview Street, Chandler, AZ 85224
Contact: Manely Vazquez, fax (480) 820-1606
For Sale
WINDOWS/PATIO
DOOR SOLAR SUNSCREENS 65 USED SOLAR STUCCO COLOR SUNSCREENS MADE FOR UDC HOME WINDOWS & FRENCH PATIO
DOORS FOR ALL INCLUSIVE PURCHASE ALL SIZES INCLUDING RADIUS SCREENS & PATIO DOORS SCREENS IN GOOD CONDITION
$400 NOT SOLD INDIV CALL FOR ALL SIZES LISTING 480-459-5280 OR E-MAIL jpaddon2002@yahoo com
Garage Sales
$425 CASH TRACKER FREEDOM LIFT Max lifting cap 350 lbs
$425 CASH 480-203-0234
Pets/Services
A FRIEND OF MINE Your in-home pet sitting and plant care service For all your pet needs, domestic and exotics Flat fee-no hidden costs Serving Ahwatukee since 2003 Member of PSI Bond/Ins d 602-617-0993 Please visit us at afriend ofminepetsitting com Recreation/Vacation/Timeshare
For Sale Weekend/Vacation Home Roosevelt Lakeview Resort 14 x 70 Mobile Home. Fully Furnished, decorated, deck w/spa and screen room Call 520-743-8085
Meetings/Events
Real Estate For Rent Service Directory
Meetings/Events
AMERICAN LEGION AHWATUKEE Post #64 We Meet Every 3rd Wed at 3pm at the Ahwatukee Retirement Center At 5001 E Cheyenne Dr, Phoenix, Az 85044
Contact ED MANGAN Cmdr 602-501-0128
