West Valley View: South April 11, 2018

Java Trolley opens in Waddell PAGE 18

Tolleson dancer performing PAGE 23

Grieving mother: Organ donation shouldn’t be heroic

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Vikki Burdine was lying in bed watching a television show about organ recipients when her daughter, Jaimy, knocked on her door.

“I was watching a show about how these organ transplant recipients were taking on mannerisms or likes of the people they received an organ from,” said Burdine, a Buckeye resident.

“She came in my room and it turned out she was watching the same show. She said, ‘It’s really cool. How do I do that?’”

Burdine told her it was simple: Residents just sign up to be organ donors through the state’s ServiceArizona.com.

“I never knew if she did it or not,” she said.

But tragedy struck in April 2015; coincidentally National Donate Life Month. Burdine, Jaimy and Jaimy’s young son, Stylz, went on a horse cart ride to celebrate the baby’s first birthday. During the ride, the horse got spooked and ran down the neighborhood road in Rainbow Valley. An experienced equestrian, Burdine tried to control the horse. Jaimy held Stylz tightly and fell backward off the cart, landing on her back. Stylz, who is now 3, landed on her chest.

As she fell on the road, her head hit the asphalt, causing a traumatic injury. Stylz suffered just superficial wounds. A fire station was nearby and Burdine credits the paramedics and firefighters for trying to

save her life.

“When the paramedics arrived, she was taking her last breath,” Burdine said,

holding back sobs.

School resource officers called a key safety tool, but critics fear discrimination

By Faith Miller

Between class periods at Westview High School, police officer Edward Toves sometimes studies the TV screens that stretch across the wall of his office, displaying footage from dozens of surveillance cameras. Other times, he stands in a hallway and chats with students – still keeping an eye out for anything that could threaten school safety.

As a school resource officer, Toves considers himself more than Westview’s

first line of defense. He strives to be an educator, a mentor and a friend.

In a nationwide, student-led push for changes to gun policy after a school shooting February 14 in Parkland, Florida, Toves and other school resource officers have come into the public spotlight. While Democrats have emphasized gun control measures to improve school safety, Republicans, including Gov. Doug Ducey, have pushed for more security, including funding for law enforcement

officers on campus.

That doesn’t sit well with activists in Arizona who say school resource officers can abuse their authority over students –especially students of color – and that schools would be better off without them. Arizona has at least 113 school resource officers in schools from Paradise Valley to Tolleson. Those SROs are funded through

SRO..continued on page 2

Vikki Burdine, center, poses with her wife Claudia Lemon and her grandsons, Bishop, 16, and Stylz, 3, at the memorial for Jaimy Burdine. (West Valley View photo by Melissa Fossum)

Donors..continued on page 4

three-year state grants, but another 15 officers are supported by federal dollars, according to a spokesman for the Arizona Department of Education, which oversees the state-funded officers. And some cities have chosen to pay for officers on campus, but the education department does not keep track of those numbers.

Days after high-school activists seeking tighter gun control conducted a sit-in at the governor’s office in March, Ducey proposed the Safe Arizona Schools plan, which includes increasing funding for law enforcement officers on school campuses.

Police teaching in classrooms

Toves, the resource officer for Westview High, in the Tolleson Union High School District, started in the position about a month ago. So far, he said, he hasn’t had to deal with any threats or rumors of wrongdoing on campus.

Toves said resource officers with the Avondale Police Department went through critical-incident training to prepare for potential threats, such as an active shooter. The training entails mock drills on a campus, where public safety departments construct an atmosphere that resembles an actual shooting scene as closely as possible. The staged events, which take place at a high school or college campus, can involve teachers, students and actors as well as public safety officers, Toves said.

“You do move, you do have to think quickly, you have to communicate,” Toves said. “Because not only do you have to find out and do what you need to do, you need to let everyone know who’s coming, where you need to be.”

Police officers at Arizona public

schools also take on roles as educators because state law requires resource officers provide students with 180 hours of law-related education each year. Toves said this means visiting classrooms to teach students about legal issues relevant to their lives.

“Things could be as simple as, ‘What if I don’t want to go to school?’ What’s the legal implication for that?” Toves said. “Or smoking, buying cigarettes or buying alcohol, those kind of things.”

Before coming to Westview, Toves worked the midnight police shift, patrolling the streets of Avondale. It was the teenagers he would run into –perhaps breaking curfew or speeding –who drew him to the job at Westview, he said.

“The first thing I would ask them is ‘Where do you go to school?’” Toves said. “And then I would ask them, ‘Do you know your SRO?’”

Most of the time, Toves said, the teenagers would respond enthusiastically. He could tell the students at Westview enjoyed working with their resource officer, and that led Toves to consider whether he’d be a good fit in a position where he could act as a positive role model. It was a job that would entail more than working a regular police beat.

“Right there I was thinking, ‘Oh hey, what a positive community to work with,’” Toves said. “And I was hopeful that when this position came open, I could continue in that same way.”

When Westview’s resource officer retired, Toves applied. Since coming to the high school, he has tried to approach each student and introduce himself.

Protests to get rid of police on campuses

But not all relationships between students and school resource officers

are positive, opponents say.

Cops Outta Campus, a campaign associated with the Puente Human Rights Movement, is made up of Arizona students and supporters who believe resource officers make schools more dangerous. They fear resource officers might deport undocumented students and contend that officers pose a risk to campus safety because they’re armed.

Students marched through downtown Phoenix on February 23 to protest stationing police officers at schools.

Clara Valenzuela, a student at the protest, said having armed officers on campus is a “weapon against weapon” defense strategy in situations where that only leads to more violence and makes students of color more vulnerable.

Last month in Maryland, Officer Blaine Gaskill was lauded for confronting and killing a teenager who had killed one student and injured another at Great Mills High School.

Deploying SROs in ‘combat zone’ schools

In February, a Phoenix elementary school principal said staff and students felt unsafe in the high-crime area and started a GoFundMe page to keep her school resource officer.

Stefan Swiat, spokesman for the Arizona Department of Education, said the department would like to have a resource officer in every school – but that would require a great deal more funding under the state school safety program. Recent funding for state grants reached about $12 million, with

the majority coming from Prop 301, the education funding measure passed by voters.

The average cost for one SRO, including salary, benefits and hiring costs, is more than $100,000 per year, Swiat said.

John Renouard, Westview’s principal, said resource officers are necessary to keep schools safe. He cited an experience he had working at a different school without a resource officer, where ongoing gang violence led to one student killing another off campus.

Even with 30 years of military experience, Renouard said, it was a challenge to clean up the gang activity without the help of a school resource officer assigned to the school.

“I don’t want to say it was the same as a combat zone, but it was pretty close, with my experience,” Renouard said. “Sometimes we need to have that additional authority figure just to quell some of the issues that are on campus.”

Toves said that beyond his daily duties providing security and education at Westview, he took the job in hopes of making a lasting positive influence on students’ lives.

He said he hoped to handle allegations of criminal activity at school in a way that’s “straightforward” and “not threatening.”

A goal, he said, was to “hopefully direct a lot of the students in a good direction for being a good citizen.”

Cronkite News reporter Alexandra Watts contributed to this story.

Avondale police officer Edward Toves works at Westview High as a school resource officer. His job includes visiting classes to teach students about the law. (Photo by Faith Miller/Cronkite News)

The West Valley View is a controlled-circulation weekly. It is published every Wednesday, and distributed free-of-charge to homes and in high-traffic locations throughout Avondale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Buckeye and Tolleson.

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Blood donations of all types needed

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

More than 1,000 life-saving blood transfusions are required by the young patients at Phoenix Children’s Hospital every month.

All blood types are needed, however, type o-negative is always in greatest demand. To make an appointment, call 1-877-UBS-HERO (1-877827-4376) or visit bloodhero.com (enter your city or ZIP code).

Local collection sites are:

• 14270 W. Indian School Road, at Litchfield Road, Goodyear; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday; and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

• Skyview High School, 4290 S. Miller Road, Buckeye, 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday, April 11.

• Estrella Foothills High School, 13033 S. Estrella Parkway, Performing Arts Theater, Goodyear, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 19.

• Earnhardt Honda, 10151 W. Papago Freeway, Avondale, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, April 23.

• Manheim Phoenix, 201 N. 83rd Avenue, Tolleson, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 24.

• Estrella Mountain Community College, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Plaza Gallery, Avondale, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, and Thursday, April 26.

• West-MEC SW Campus, 500 N. Verrado Way, Buckeye, noon to 6 p.m. Friday, April 27.

Registration open for Southwest Valley HOA Academy

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Anyone who lives in a community served by a homeowner’s association is invited to attend the next Southwest Valley HOA Academy from 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 28, at the Buckeye Library-Coyote Branch, 21699 W. Yuma Road, Suite 116.

The event is free, but space is limited to 19 people.

Operation Christmas Child hosting thank-you party

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Samaritan’s Purse and its affiliate Operation Christmas Child are hosting a thank-you party for those who helped pack 16,074 shoeboxes with fun toys, school supplies and hygiene items for kids around the world.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Topics at this summit include enforcement and dispute resolution and modern documents, presented by VF Law. In addition, a legislative update on bills related to HOAs will be provided, followed by a question-and-answer session.

Southwest Valley HOA training seminars are provided through a partnership with the cities Avondale, Goodyear and Buckeye.

For more information, call 623-333-2701; 623349-6459; or 623-882-7801.

packing party during which 275 boxes were packed.

During National Collection Week in 2017, Grace Fellowship Church in Buckeye served as a West Valley drop-off location, as did Desert Springs Community and Skyway churches in Goodyear.

The party is 10 a.m. Saturday, April 28, at Calvary Chapel, 15610 W. Greenway Road, Surprise. To RSVP, call Raeleen Higgins at 813787-8604 or email raeleenh@msn.com.

A light continental breakfast will be served. Project leaders will discuss the 2018 collection and how it changes children’s lives.

During the last holiday season, there were activities held around the Valley. On November 4, Wildflower Bread Company and the Goodyear Police Department co-hosted a shoebox-

The Goodyear dropoff locations received 5,332 shoeboxes during collection week. The Buckeye location received 530.

Samaritan’s Purse is an international Christian relief and evangelism organization headed by Franklin Graham. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 158 million giftfilled shoeboxes to children in more than 160 countries and territories.

Raeleen Higgins at 813- 5,332 shoeboxes during

“They started CPR. They didn’t give up. They could have declared her dead. They didn’t. They kept trying. The medical helicopter people came and gave her CPR all the way to the hospital. The doctors hooked her up to the machines so her organs would remain viable. It took a lot of people to make that happen.”

The Donor Network called Burdine shortly after her daughter arrived at the hospital.

“Of course, they call you at the most horrible moment in your life,” she said. “When I heard the word ‘organ donation,’ I said, ‘Yes.’ She had done it. She was a registered organ donor. It wasn’t our decision. I was so happy I was able to fulfill that wish. It was truly a tragedy,” she said. “A freak accident, tragedy.”

The story doesn’t end there. Burdine has a letter from the woman who received Jaimy’s lungs, and another from a tissue recipient who was suffering from back problems.

“The letter I received from the tissue recipient, it was really beautiful,” she said. “Her life maybe wasn’t saved, but

it was changed for the better because her back problems were causing severe headaches.

“That was enlightening to me.”

Born in Costa Rica, Jaimy moved to the West Valley when she was 2.

Burdine describes her daughter as “kind and unique.”

“She taught me a lot about looking inside someone, rather than outside,”

Burdine said. “She was born to be a mom. It was her passion. She believed she was put on this Earth to be a mom. She was my best friend. I had her when I was barely 17 years old. We grew up together and I miss her terribly.”

The day doctors retrieved her organs, she was set to travel to Costa Rica to meet her grandmother. Jaimy’s children, Bishop, now 16, and Stylz, live with Burdine as they did before the 33-year-old woman’s death.

“It would have been even more traumatic if they had to go somewhere else,” she said.

The kids and their grandmother frequently visit a memorial site, changing decorations on it as the seasons change. Stylz knows that’s his mom. Bishop fondly remembers his mother.

“He was lucky enough to know her,” she said. “The little one is confused about what’s going on. He knows she died and the memorial is where we go to see her.

“She certainly was a hero, but I look forward to the day when organ donors aren’t heroes. It’s something everyone does.”

Jaimy Nicole Burdine’s memorial site is decorated seasonally. (West Valley View photo by Melissa Fossum)

Michael Hiatt named Times Media Group vice president

By West Valley View staff

Times Media Group (TMG), the locally based publisher of 17 Valley publications, including the West Valley View, announced April 3 that Michael Hiatt will join the company as its vice president and chief revenue officer.

Hiatt is former group publisher of Modern Luxury - Scottsdale Magazine and group publisher of Phoenix Magazine and Phoenix Home & Garden, both published by Cities West Publishing.

Hiatt has worked in the publishing industry in metro Phoenix for over 30 years. He is well known in the Southwest for his publishing creativity and his ability to build revenue streams by creating unique, effective clientfocused advertising platforms and marketing solutions.

Hiatt’s hiring combines his publishing experience with the more than two decades that Times Media Group founder Steve Strickbine has spent building TMG from a single eight-page community newspaper into the Valley’s leading community news source.

“This is what I’d call a perfect match,” said Strickbine, who will

remain TMG’s president. “I’ve always thought of Michael as a superstar in the news business for two reasons. One, he has grown some terrific publications in terms of the stories they tell, the way they serve their advertisers, and the way they serve their communities.

Two – and this is even more important – there’s the high level of integrity Michael brings to work every day.”

In his new role, Hiatt will guide all operations related to revenue generation, a move designed to help TMG better capitalize on its many media brands, broad reach across the Valley, and desirable demographics.

Hiatt started his professional career in Arizona at the East Valley Tribune in 1985 as a staff correspondent. Times Media Group acquired the Tribune in 2015.

“This is an exciting homecoming for me, both to the Tribune and to community journalism, which is something I’m passionate about,”

Hiatt said. “I’ve witnessed Steve grow Times Media Group into a formidable organization and I look forward to helping lead this talented team.”

Hiatt worked as the publisher, and later group publisher, of Phoenix Magazine and Phoenix Home & Garden from 2001 to 2013, overseeing an unprecedented period of growth.

Beginning in 2013, Hiatt launched and then served as group publisher of Modern Luxury - Scottsdale, a luxury lifestyle publication and a member of the Modern Luxury family of magazines, which produces more than 80 titles across 24 major markets.

“The Times Media Group represents an expanding platform that is perfectly positioned for growth,” Hiatt said. “The unique blend of longevity, demographic and geographic targeting as well as the desired reach of 17 publications in a growing and vibrant market is truly exciting.

“Further, the combination of credibility, creativity, and quality products and people is inspiring. The diversity of TMG’s printed products, sophisticated digital offering and unique events can galvanize local communities.”

areas, TMG publishes the West Valley View, the East Valley Tribune (EastValley.com), the Ahwatukee Foothills News (Ahwatukee.com), Nearby News publications, the San Tan Sun News, the Scottsdale Airpark News, the Gilbert Sun News, the College Times, Lovin’ Life After 50, The Entertainer! Magazine, North Valley Magazine, 85086 Magazine, 85085 Magazine and the travel and information website Phoenix.org. TMG also owns and operates AZ Integrated Media, a media distribution and custom publishing company.

A digital and print media company operating in the Phoenix and Tucson

For more information on Times Media Group, visit timespublications.com.

Rotary branches out to further LP Tree City reputation

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

When Rotary International’s president Ian Riseley came to Phoenix from Australia, he challenged local clubs to plant one tree per member.

The Litchfield Park Rotary took it a step further.

“I suggested to our board that we should one up that and double the amount, so it would be our goal to plant two trees per member,” said Craig Ring, Litchfield Park Rotary president.

“The board thought this was a good idea.”

Last month, the Litchfield Park Rotary donated and planted 60 trees throughout the city. Ring coordinated the donation with Brian Goodman, Litchfield Park’s public works director.

“I worked closely with him and he put together a map of places within the city that have lost trees due to monsoons or powerful storms or other reasons, like

disease or beetles,” Ring said.

“We replaced trees that had been there that weren’t replaced before. We used three varieties – live oak, an elm or ash tree. Those three leave a limited amount of debris. Plus, the root systems go straight down. They don’t spread out and get into sewer lines or the like.”

Goodyear’s LandCare Unlimited helped with the project, and Rotary Club members and others planted 22 trees at Scout Park and the rest throughout the city.

“We really had a lot of fun doing it,” Ring said. “It was something worthwhile for the community and something to beautify the community.”

For more than 25 years, Litchfield Park has been designated a Tree City USA city, according to Interim City Manager Sonny Culbreth.

“We pride ourselves not only on the

Times Media Group President Steve Strickbine, left, announced Michael Hiatt as the company’s new vice president and CRO. (West Valley View photo by Kimberly Carrillo)

Buckeye appoints assistant city manager

By Connor Dziawura

The city of Buckeye recently appointed former El Mirage Interim City Manager James Shano as its assistant city manager. His first day was Monday, April 2.

Shano said he feels he will fit in well with the city and its goals, as he brings more than 21 years of experience in municipal government to the table. In addition to El Mirage, Shano has worked in Peoria, Surprise and Paradise Valley.

“I kind of started at the bottom in municipal government with the city of Peoria,” he said. “Over the 21 years I’ve worked in Peoria, Surprise, a little bit of East Valley experience with the town of Paradise Valley, and most

Tree...continued from page 6

amount of trees we have, but the types of trees and how well they’re kept in the community,” Culbreth said.

“They’re a big part of our community. We were thrilled the Rotary Club wanted to do that. Public works helped drill the holes, so everything was ready

recently with El Mirage.”

During his time with Peoria, Surprise and Paradise Valley, he amassed experience with strategic planning, intergovernmental agreements for development and infrastructure, civil engineering, construction management and capital improvement project management.

With his experience spanning multiple cities and towns over the years, Shano has worked his way up through a variety of different positions.

He has knowledge in technical and professional engineering as well as executive level management.

“I just think those experiences over

the morning they were planting those. It was a good community effort with our public works department and our Rotary Club members.”

Ring has been a Rotary Club member since 1991 because, he said, it’s a good way to keep in touch with and give back to the community of Litchfield Park.

Litchfield Park Rotary, which has 28

21 years and being in a lot of different capacities in city government have been very beneficial to me, and I think it’s beneficial to the city of Buckeye,” he said.

Shano is also a registered professional engineer and certified public manager. He earned a certificate in construction management from ASU. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality also gave him Grade 4 certifications in water distribution, wastewater collection and wastewater treatment.

As for why Shano came to Buckeye, the decision was simple: the opportunity.

“El Mirage has a very, very bright future ahead of them, but it was just

members, gives scholarships to high school students, and supports charities like Homeless Youth Connection, New Life Center, Meals of Joy, Boy Scouts and Blue Star Moms.

“I enjoy the fellowship, plus we raise money,” Ring said. “We have a sergeant of arms who gives out kangaroo courtstyle fines, and fines the members for

an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up and was a great interest to me moving forward in my career,” he explained.

Shano is looking forward to watching Buckeye progress.

“Joining the city of Buckeye that has a growing population, the seventh-fastest growing city in America, is exciting,” he said, noting 600 square miles of open possibilities and 70,000 residents.

“Buckeye continues to grow and continues to progress, and so that’s what I’m looking forward to, is to continue that improvement of the quality of life for the residents and to continue creating that successful future for Buckeye.”

silly things. We use that money to help support our endeavors.

“We have a lot of fun with that. It’s all in the name of raising money. Combine that with doing good work, and we think we help people.”

For more information about the Litchfield Park Rotary, visit portal. clubrunner.ca/3055.

OUR READERS’ VIEWPOINTS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Reader questions Molina letter

Editor:

To Mr. Alfred Molina, yes I did graduate from the kindergarten, and even with my limited education I consider myself more enlightened than what you displayed in your limited brain cell capacity.

First of all, spurs are attached to a “cowboy’s” boots, not his feet.

Not only Sen. Corker and Rex Tillerson have negative comments about our president, so do thousands upon thousands of other “intellectuals” such as you who voice their concerns with negative and venomous tirades. President Donald Trump won the election and is your president. Get over it!

Did you say you “have never seen a mess so big” in the White House? You must have been born after Bubba Clinton was impeached. What about Hussein Obama? He not only had a cluster of “yes” men on his administration, but he kept them on to do his bidding.

You talk about getting along with our allies; do you mean allies like Iran, North Korea and Russia? Let’s keep on donating billions of dollars on pallets to them so we “can get along.” You sound like a college graduate.

From which school did you graduate?

Let’s keep on criticizing our president and ignore all of his accomplishments. I know, let’s impeach him.

Tony V. Mendivel Avondale

Mission accomplished

Editor:

Mr. Callahan’s letter to the West Valley View, dated April 4, 2018, reminded me of an incident that happened a number of years ago. I was attending a charity function along with many community members and a number of potential donors. As I was making the rounds, I noticed a group of people gathered around, who I later discovered was a very successful businessman. Because of his stature in the community, he had the ear of everyone in the group. He was trashing teachers and the education system. Teachers earn too much money, they work for only part of the year, taxes are too high, etc., etc., etc. You get the idea.

Being an educator and feeling the need to be enlightened, I worked my way into the group. When the opportunity presented itself, I asked him to what he owed his success. (He had multiple degrees and certificates in business and owned a number of businesses.) He was quick to reply, “A lot of hard work.” I accepted his answer but also asked him if he went to school to earn those degrees. He said yes, and then added, “I was inspired by teachers who not only taught me, but pushed me to do better.”

I smiled and walked away from the group. Mission accomplished.

Richard Sitch Goodyear

Response to Bradley’s letter

Editor:

I am writing this in response to a letter in the April 4, 2018, edition of the West Valley View, written by Mr. Bradley.

There were two points raised that I’m wondering if Mr. Bradley could clarify.

1. You stated that "'A well-regulated militia' stores its military-grade weapons in a local armory where military-trained officers keep them available for use by sane, well trained citizens who are qualified to use them to protect us from foreign and domestic enemies,” and then included “That’s what our forefathers intended.”

Can you please show me anywhere where this is stated in the Constitution, any amendment, or even a document written by one of the forefathers?

2. You twice used the term “militarygrade weapons.”

Can you show where the “military” is using the same weapons that are currently available to citizens?

I humbly await your response.

Thank you.

and then that amount is spread out over 22 or 26 pay periods.

Mr. Callahan believes that teachers do not work at night. Incorrect! I attend PTO meetings, school functions, school board meetings, parent/teacher conferences, etc. in the evenings, all of which are outside my “contract” time.

Mr. Callahan believes teachers wouldn’t work on Christmas. Will you be sending your child to school on Christmas, Mr. Callahan? No, I didn’t think so.

Mr. Callahan believes teachers wouldn’t work during the summer. Have you ever heard of summer school, Mr. Callahan? Or do you believe monkeys teach those students during the summer?

Teachers’ worth

Editor:

Martin L. Land II Buckeye

Myths regarding teacher pay

Editor:

Mr. Callahan clearly does not understand how teacher pay works. Teachers do not get paid for the summer. Let me say that again. Teachers do not get paid for the summer. Teachers are paid for a set number of contract days,

Mr. Callahan believes teachers don’t work overtime. Incorrect! Teachers do work overtime; they just aren’t compensated for it! Any time a teacher spends working outside of his/her contract time is overtime. We do not get compensated for arriving early or leaving late. We do not get compensated for the hours we spend grading papers at home or responding to parent emails before bedtime.

And just to clarify, Mr. Callahan; year-round schools are open the same number of days as a traditional school. The days are just distributed differently throughout the calendar year.

Mr. Callahan, I would highly suggest you research your talking points regarding teacher compensation before your next letter to the editor.

Melissa O’Neill Goodyear

First, some calendar math: 52 weeks means 104 days as Saturday/ Sunday 365-104=261. I work 185 days (different districts have slightly different numbers of contract days), leaving 76 days not on contract. I have 27 unpaid days throughout my contracted period and 49 days in the summer that are also unpaid. I work, typically, 50 hours per week Monday through Friday. I work one Friday evening through Saturday night twice a year – unpaid; and one full weekend Friday evening through Sunday evening a year. If my students qualify, I spend six days and nights away from work and my family at our international competition, of which only three days are paid. I have three full evenings I spend supervising students on career exploration trips. None of these are paid. My 49 days of summer are spent taking courses and planning lessons for the next year. I challenge you to work full time, and take courses and care of your personal children.

I have yet to find a noneducation business that would employ me for my erratic days not on contract. Most require a 60 probationary period, and I could not complete that in consecutive days! I am worth every penny invested in my students and my paycheck.

Peggy Bondurant Tempe

Misconceptions about teachers

Editor:

I am a teacher; have been for 19 years. I have always worked in the summer. Here is my summer schedule.

May 28 and May 29: Professional development at the district office writing curriculum.

June 4 to June 7: Professional development at school.

July 13 to July 15: Professional development to learn new software for next year.

July 16 to July 20: Professional development to learn new software for next year.

July 23 to July 27: District-required professional development to learn how to teach a course the district buys for use in the middle school where I teach.

Only six of these days are paid development days. The pay is only $18 an hour. If you count the number of days we are off in the summer, which is 45, that leaves 20 days off. In those days, I create lesson plans.

I teach seven subjects each year – computer basics, computer programming and app development, computer graphic design, web design, clothing design, automation and robotics, and introduction to engineering design and modeling.

I spent my spring break making samples for my clothing design class this year. I spend six to eight hours on the weekend grading papers and lesson planning for the next week. I would like to challenge Mr. Harry Callahan to come and spend one day working my entire seven periods with only 30 minutes for lunch. The very idea that we only work part time is the biggest misconception in the media today.

Annette Haynes Tempe

Teachers work hard

Editor:

The premise of the letter from Harry Callahan has problems. First, as everyone should know, 180 days a year is half a calendar year, but fulltime employees who work 52 weeks a year, five days a week, actually work 260 days and have weekends off. Mr. Callahan would have teachers working seven-day weeks. Most people who work full time get paid vacation time, which would reduce the working days on average 10 to 20 days a year. Most full-time employees get holidays off

on New Year's Day, Christmas, 4th of July, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, some get Veterans Day, Presidents Day and Easter. Those who have to work those days either get other time off to compensate or additional pay at time and a half. So the more accurate comparison is 180 days to 230 days for a full-time job. Now, Mr. Callahan implies school days are shorter than eight hours. That is true for students but not for teachers. We cannot just pay teachers for the face time that they have with the children. That is part of the job. Teachers must prepare their classrooms to be ready for children. Many do this during their summer vacations. They need to purchase and organize the books and supplies that they will use. They need to prepare spaces for the kids to use, and in some districts that includes repairing the old equipment and decorating to make the room a place where children might enjoy learning. They need to prepare lesson plans. In addition to face time with kids, they need to correct and grade all writing assignments and tests, meet with parents, attend in-service training, learn and implement all of the requirements of their districts, and prepare report cards with recommendations for improvement and evaluation of what has been accomplished. It is not uncommon for a teacher’s day to start at 6 a.m. and end at school at 6 p.m. when they leave with work to be done at home.

Teachers are also expected to be available for extracurricular activities before and after school. Teachers pack about a day and a half into every day they work during the school year and actually work about 270 days during that time. After that, with their low wages, many have second jobs, take courses to improve their service, and work summer jobs. Teachers are some of the hardest-working people we have and those who really care about our kids are a priceless treasure. It’s time to start treating them that way.

Eileen Fein Goodyear

A day in the life of a teacher

Editor:

I ordinarily would try to stay out of this forum given the veritable plethora of uniformed diatribes by many of the regular contributors here, but I felt Harry Callahan, who writes frequently about the “part-time” jobs he views teachers like myself as having, deserved an education in what the teaching life is really like. Mr. Callahan

likes to discuss the “real world.” When I personally look around the “real world,” I see kids, lots of them, and they happen to have hopes and dreams that require skills like reading, writing and research, not to mention help with the structure, discipline and guidance many of them aren’t getting at home.

My day Thursday started with the alarm at 5:30 a.m. I was in my classroom by 7 a.m., tutored after school, umpired a baseball game in my district, and then rushed back to school at 6:30 p.m. because a student asked me to support her at a performance and I was happy to do so. At 8 that night, I got home, checked my own children’s homework and slept not long after so I could do it all again the next day. On both my Christmas and Spring breaks, when families do things together, I taught a remedial program for students needing extra help. I expect to be teaching summer school as well. Every four weeks a paper is due. I have nearly 150 students. Even at a mere 5 minutes per paper, that is 14 hours of work outside the work day. I must say that I never felt very part time.

In the summer, the typical teacher is either writing next year’s curriculum, taking courses to complete a graduate degree, revamping next year’s lesson plans, coaching a team or taking and possibly delivering professional

development to other teachers. And yes, other jobs from construction workers to Major League Baseball players have off seasons, and usually workers use that time to prepare for the busier part of the year. Our jobs typically don’t allow us the time to write ignorant, mean-spirited and disrespectful letters to the editor on a regular basis.

Jeffrey C. Turbitt Buckeye

Do the math

Editor:

Just to be clear, 180 is not half of a year; it is actually 182 and a half. If we do simple math, we will discover that teachers are not part time. Fiftytwo weeks in a year, and subtracting Saturday and Sunday, we end up with 261 weekdays. And subtracting the mandated federal holidays that comes to 20 days that the real world has off, we are down to 241 days. Two days prior to school when teachers are back for meetings and classroom preparation and one or two days at the close of school brings to 237 days. Now consider this. Not all, but most teachers remain after school for multiple

activities with students. Here is an example. I was the boys’ and girls’ golf coach at my high school. Each season was 10 weeks, unless we advanced, then it would possibly extend three more weeks. I was paid $1,500 for boys’ and girls’ golf. Practice was four hours at a golf course. I was at school at 6:30 a.m. every day and got home around 8 p.m. After dinner, I returned to school to set up labs for my science classes. Now, how much was I paid for my golf? Five days at four hours per day equals 20 hours per week times

20 weeks, not including weekends, is 400 hours. So I was making $3.75 an hour. Oh, wait: I should be getting minimum wage! That would mean I should have been paid $4,000. Converting hours to days that would, using eight hours per day, equal 50 days. Subtract 50 days from 237 equals 187 days. So, teachers are forced into unemployment for seven days because students are not in school. And to think I didn’t even get my two-week paid vacation.

Les Armstrong Goodyear

In response to Molina’s comments concerning his fake president

Editor:

The draft dodger who comes to mind is none other than Bill Clinton “Slick Willie,” who never served in the military. (He served his time after marrying Hillary, which was harder than any boot camp.)

After eight years of Obama trying his best to destroy this country, we finally have a leader who is not touring the world apologizing or bowing to foreign leaders for the mistakes he thinks the USA has caused. Obama was a poor leader and a disgrace to our proud country. Tax and spend is the way of the left using others people’s money.

All major indicators show how much good Trump has done for his country: unemployment is the lowest in years – millions of people are off the food stamp roll because they now have jobs. Manufacturing is coming back at a rate we haven’t seen in years. Once he finishes draining the swamp, this country will continue to prosper.

Because I had such a hard time getting through kindergarten as stated, I am proud to say I never received an incomplete on my IQ score as it seems for the left.

God bless the USA and God bless Donald Trump.

By the way, would you please tell Hillary that she lost the election in 2016 and needs to go away? She is the reason she lost; she doesn’t need to write a book blaming others.

I would rather be called a “deplorable” than be accused of voting for Hillary.

I’ll give you myself as an example. I got to work at 6:30 every morning to do any and all of the following: administer missed tests, tutor, clean desks, reply to parent e-mails or notes, go to department meetings, organize material for the day's lesson, make copies when needed; the list goes on, but class started after 8, so we had to be present to greet students, keep an eye on hallways, occasionally break up fights, and then start teaching class. Mr. Callahan, you would not believe what parents and lawmakers (both conservative and liberal) would expect you to do with/for these students! I had to be the person who sent students to the nurse or to administration if they had issues; I had to be a social worker, a mandated reporter, an arbitrator, a record keeper, an attendance taker and, if time permitted, a teacher. I often was asked and expected to cover for an ailing colleague or a coach who had to leave early. After I got home at about 4:30, I wasn’t done; I had to grade the days homework from 150 to 170 students so I could get it back the next day. Then I would look at the class goals and see what adjustments I needed to make for the next day’s class. If it was an “early” night I might be able to watch a little TV before going to bed. My days were routinely 12 to 14 hours; I know I must have been a slacker. Just in a 40-week work year, conservatively I worked 2,400 hours, but probably more. Should I have gotten overtime for the hours over 2,000? No, none of us teachers bemoan the extra hours or responsibilities, because it is for our students.

Mel Brown Avondale

Response to 'About teachers' pay'

Editor:

I recently read a letter to the editor about teachers pay by Mr. Callahan. I was amused by many of Mr. Callahan’s assertions about teachers and how little they work, because I just retired after 30 years as an educator and administrator. If we take his 40-hour workweek and apply it over the course of 50 weeks, you have about 2,000 hours per year for a full-time employee. I will address “the real world” and working Christmas later, as will I talk about year-round school.

I will not talk about the average teacher;

As far as "real world," how many people would expect to do hours of work every night and most weekends and not get paid anything additional for their efforts? I had a conservative friend who liked to taunt me with the phrase “Those who can’t ... teach,” until I asked if he wanted to see or do what I do on a daily, weekly, monthly and annual basis; needless to say, I haven’t heard it since.

I can’t believe someone wants their children or grandchildren to be in school on Christmas, Easter, Memorial Day or most other holidays, but what you do not know is that while you and your family are enjoying the day, many teachers are working on lesson plans, grading, finding new or different materials, or a host of other things for parts or all of a day like these. Just think, I haven’t even touched on teachers working summer school, getting credits to stay accredited as a teacher in a field, or working on post graduate degrees, etc. I hope you know the reason for the school schedule as it

is was predominantly to help farmers around planting and gathering crops, with the help of their children, and Christmas and Easter, to pay heed to the local churches.

Many school districts have tried year-round school; the number of days is the same, but schools found routine maintenance impossible to schedule, and buildings and facilities were neglected. Teachers were having a hard time getting needed credits as few other institutions of higher learning could meet the teachers’ schedule. Lastly, sir, many teachers do go back to work in “the real world,” and many have told me that they couldn’t believe how much easier and less stressful their life became when all they had to do was work 40 hours a week! Me? I did it for my students, who were your children and grandchildren, and it was my pleasure. So please do not be guilted into anything about the teacher pay situation. Also be aware of what it really takes to be a teacher! P.S., I coached football, baseball and golf at different times, and the extra pay for the time requirements was not minimum pay standards – even back then!

William M. McArdle Litchfield Park

Vote Tipirneni

Editor:

Debbie Lesko has her campaign signs on every street corner in the eighth congressional district, or so it seems. Have you noticed what they say?: “Standing with our president.”

President Trump has called for social security to be privatized. He called it “a Ponzi scheme.” Paul Ryan is quoted as saying he is trying to persuade the president to rein in costs of social security and Medicare. A vote for the career politician Debbie Lesko is a vote for privatizing social security and cutting Medicare.

Does Debbie Lesko stand with the president in his serial womanizing? She has been embarrassingly quiet. Does Debbie Lesko stand with the president in his refusal to oppose the sale of assault rifles and bump stock handguns? The White House has said that the president’s views on gun control “have not changed.” To this date we have not heard from Lesko on what she would do about gun violence.

Dr. Hiral Tipirneni will fight to keep social security and Medicare intact. She supports the Second Amendment, but believes in common-sense gun safety. She has spent her professional life as an emergency room doctor and

cancer researcher. She will serve us with distinction and deserves our vote.

Dr. Terry Swicegood

Litchfield Park

Comparing Lesko and Tipirneni

Editor:

Each day the broken Washington Congress is getting worse. It is time for a change! Having attended three forums and listened to nine candidates, it is evident that Debbie Lesko is a career politician getting her marching orders from corporations and lobbyists. Voting for her is adding to the dysfunction of our country. She supports reducing “socalled entitlements” (Medicare, social security and health care).

As a mother of five and grandmother of seven, I know we need to fuel opportunities for our youth to succeed and want to stay in Arizona to give back service to the state. Lesko has been called the Betsy DeVos of the Arizona education system, reducing money from our public schools to fund private schools with no accountability of funds. This hurts our middle- and low-income families. To encourage employers to bring jobs to Arizona, we need to have attractive educational programs for their employees’ families. Our teachers are at the bottom of the pay scale. Retaining quality teachers has been next to impossible with many leaving after two years.

Arizona is loved for its natural beauty by residents and tourists. Lesko received an “F,” 15-percent approval, from Arizona League of Conservation Voters and the Sierra Club.

Finally, she faces ethics complaints for alleged laundering of campaign money into a Super PAC to get elected. She is in the heart of dysfunctional Washington, with no plans to change.

In contrast, Dr. Hiral Tipirneni is a fresh start to change our country’s decline. She has worked with heartfelt care for Arizona families. She is running for Congress to help fix our broken system. She will fight for health care, Medicare and social security that has been promised. Aware of the importance of education in her life and her family’s, she will offer solutions for improved public school programs and need for funding.

Dr. Hiral said climate change is irrefutable. Arizona should be leading charge on reducing CO2, implementing solar, geothermal, biomass and wind energy. All to preserve our cherished natural wonders and animals.

Dr. Hiral supports immigration

reform that “makes sense.”

Dr. Hiral believes our national security in the global arena needs to be firm with diplomatic measures exhausted before aggression manifests. This strength applies to Russia’s irrefutable meddling as well as North Korea’s striking stature. Firm is not displayed by provoking tweets.

We need to keep America great by voting for the best candidate.

Carolyn Knaack Sun City West

Phony sick pay

Editor:

Why do our tax dollars subsidize teachers who do not work?

The entire idea of so-called sick pay – pay for workers who do not work – is wrong. But, the idea becomes criminal when workers claim to be sick so they can participate in a political protest. It is bad enough that we taxpayers must pay for a teacher’s time off, but it is worse when our honestly hardearned money is used to agitate for more taxes.

Ed Kahn LCDR-JAG USNR Ret. CO Goodyear

Taking issue with teacher sick-outs

Editor:

Coming from a long line of teachers and professors, I hold the profession in great esteem. That said, I can’t help but take issue with "sick-out" protests.

“Teachers protested low wages in front of the Arizona Capitol,” states the caption underneath a photo of a group of teachers who are clearly not sick. Teachers are role models for their students, and teaching them it’s OK for adults to lie to get what they want seems wrong somehow, doesn’t it?

Ingrid Pokrant Buckeye

Frequent election robocalls

Editor:

I’ve always been one who votes my conscience, rather than my party. While getting the dreaded robocalls from political candidates is a fact of life these days, I find it deplorable that the same candidate and his/her spouse

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makes repeated calls to my house during this current election cycle. Now, I’m not talking two or three calls, but at least six calls from the candidate since this current election crap began. And two calls from the spouse, asking me to vote for their spouse.

Well, candidate and spouse, I’ll tell ya this, even though you were to be “my conscience vote,” you have lost my vote because of the repeated, and unwanted, robocalls.

And, whatever happened to the personal touch? I haven’t talked to an actual candidate in at least eight years. Sure, use your auto-dialers. But, dang gum it, have a person on the other end!

Anthony Sanseverino Litchfield Park

The Franks legacy

Editor:

Arizona taxpayers need to read between the lines when they receive their ballot for the second of two special elections for Congressional District 8. What has flown under the radar is the reason for these special elections.

When Trent Franks resigned early to avoid a House Ethics Committee investigation, Senate Bill 1058 was passed to appropriate $2.5 million to fund these elections, which presumably will come from the state general fund, our taxpayer dollars. The secretary of state may also reimburse counties for additional costs.

Perhaps the Arizona Republican Party (602-957-7770) would be willing to pay the tab? Or better yet, how about funds banked by Mr. Franks for re-election, or the $5 million he offered to a woman to be the surrogate of his child?

Add one more note between the lines. Debbie Lesko, the Republican candidate, comes in with another potential scandal, money laundering of campaign funds, which begs the

question: Will there be another future special election?

Salvatore DiLiberto Surprise

Tipirneni hypocrisy

Editor:

Many of you have seen the ad by Hiral Tipirneni accusing Debbie Lesko of “money laundering” and of breaking a promise and voting for a $3 billion tax increase. They leave out important facts to deceive the viewer.

The “money laundering” is actually a complaint filed with the FEC by the Democrat- and Soros-funded Campaign Legal Center – a biased group that goes after Republicans. Winning the complaint is not their goal; they know it will not be ruled on ‘til well after it has had its effect in the special election as a talking point. It is meritless and will be dismissed.

In 2010, in the depths of the Great Recession, the Arizona budget had a shortfall percentage greater than any other state. The Arizona Constitution doesn’t allow a deficit, so large cuts were made and more were needed. Debbie and a majority of the State Legislature voted to refer to the ballot a measure asking voters if they wanted to approve a temporary 1-cent sales tax increase to prevent huge cuts to education, including laying off 20 percent of the teachers. The voters overwhelmingly voted yes. Debbie did not vote for a tax increase but voted to let the voters decide. The Arizona Republic applauded Debbie for being flexible in this dire time.

It is hypocritical for Tipirneni to raise the issue of this temporary tax increase. She opposes tax cuts and jobs act, and the Democrats promise tax increases if they take control of Congress.

Paul Mueller Peoria

Support #RedforEd

Editor:

I have been seeing TV ads that say education in Arizona is great and teachers are happy.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Our public school teachers receive the lowest pay of any teachers in the nation. We have a shortage of 2,000 teachers in the state, and kids are being babysat by unqualified substitutes. New teachers come here to get jobs when they don’t have enough experience to teach elsewhere and move on as soon as they get a year or two in experience. Those teachers who do stay take additional jobs to make ends meet.

Our kids, our teachers and our state deserve better. We cannot afford a generation of kids who are not well educated.

Companies that bring business to our state have employees who want a good education for their children. Many won’t come here when they see we are 50th in the nation in teacher pay. Property values are tied in part to services in the community and good schools are an important part of that evaluation. My kids are grown and I don’t have anyone in school, but I want to live in a neighborhood, state and country that has well educated citizens. Support our teachers by calling your state senators and congresspeople, and go to arizonaeducatorsunited.com to find out what else you can do to help.

Eileen Fein Goodyear

Democrats want to take guns

Editor:

With all the stir about firearms and gun rights in the news lately, and with all the student protests demanding that we as a nation “Do Something” to stop gun violence, I thought, OK, as an

American I can contribute. So, when I renewed my membership to the NRA, instead of sending in my $26 yearly membership fee, I sent $100. The remaining $74 can be used by the oldest and greatest civil rights organization in America to fight for constitutional rights that the Democratic left in this country would like to take away.

Any American citizen who pays any attention knows that a despotic regime does two things as quickly as possible. One: Control the flow of information (media) and Two: Confiscate the weapons necessary for the populace to resist the government.

The Democratic left already has the mainstream media. Now they’re coming for the guns. What kind of country do you want to live in?

Dan Courtland Avondale

Conspiracy against President Trump

Editor:

If there was any doubt about a deep state conspiracy that did not want Donald Trump elected or successful as president, then former CIA director Brennan put that doubt to rest. His unseemly, unprecedented and threatening rant Saturday, March 17, against a sitting president regarding the justifiable firing of former Deputy FBI Director McCabe was so disturbing as to be considered a threat by some.

Characterizing President Trump as venal, immoral, corrupt and a “disgraced demagogue” reflects Mr. Brennan’s profound, visceral hatred of the president. Becoming unhinged and enraged at a president is not typical of CIA directors who usually keep a low profile and are apolitical. By showing his true colors, one has to wonder what Mr. Brennan was doing behind the

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scenes to undermine President Trump’s election and presidency.

Igor Shpudejko Goodyear

Remembering when you could pick your own vegetables

Editor:

On a drive north on the 303, I was remembering taking my children to Duncan Farms to pick vegetables when it was a U-Pick farm. For $5, you got a large paper sack that you could fill with veggies of all kinds. Just up the road was a vineyard where, after they did their commercial picking, you could pick the grapes for 25 cents a pound. Boy, did my kids love that. And then over on 115th Avenue there was a packing plant where you could buy watermelons and cantaloupes right from the field. Those were some good times. Now there are warehouses and very few fields. The kids of today are missing out on so much in the name of progress. Sad, so sad!

Lynda Fiorini Avondale

Medicare for all

Editor: California legislators recently introduced a hodgepodge health care package they say will provide more residents with insurance coverage through a series of patches and tweaks to our already convoluted and inefficient system. Their proposals build on the ACA, a system that has tragically demonstrated that insurance “coverage,” with its huge out-of-pocket costs, forces many to skip care even if they are paying for premiums. Why would we want to expand a system designed to enrich the

health insurance industry by restricting and denying care to so many?

It’s time for California to lead the nation by adopting the Medicare-forall type system proposed in the Healthy California Act- SB 562, sponsored by the California Nurses Association.

Critics of SB 562 say it would cost too much. On the contrary, it would save billions and cover everyone, regardless of their economic or immigration status. It is our health care system that costs too much. We pay far more than other nations and get far less, including poorer health outcomes and a reduced life span. SB 562 will save billions of dollars and save lives. We can and must do both.

Alyssa Runge Phoenix

Increase school funding

Editor:

Raise your hand if you went to public schools. Raise your hand if you can read this. Raise your hand if you graduated from public high school. By now you are probably thinking, "This is ridiculous; this person can’t see if I am raising my hand or not." You’re right; it is ridiculous, but you know what else is ridiculous? The fact that our state is spending $1.1 billion less on education.

I know there was a recession and cuts were made at the time, but you must understand the Arizona legislators are required by law to fund public education. In the past 10 years, they have not been doing that. That is why school districts filed a lawsuit for them to meet their obligation. Our governor settled that lawsuit and that is how we came to have Prop 123, which he sent to the voters to see if they really wanted them to pay what they owed the children of this state. They paid 70 cents on the dollar, and to pay for the lawsuit, our governor in his infinite wisdom, (despite

suggestions from people to not do it through the land trust which violated federal law) used the land trust anyway. He broke the law – to pay a lawsuit – for breaking the law.

He calls himself the education governor, but he continues to do things that undermine public education like expanding vouchers and funneling public money to private institutions. They call this school choice. A $5,000 voucher for a private institution that costs an average of $10,000 a year really isn’t a choice for the students that I serve. Now they want to expand these vouchers to up to $25,000 or the full cost of tuition. Funny the leadership in this state is willing to spend $5,000 to $25,000 on some students in this state but not all students. I would like to see them make that commitment to all students in this state.

Then again they are willing to give up to a 50-percent deduction on capital gains to 183 people in this state. Take that in for a moment: They are going to pass a law that benefits 183 people, that is on average $28,415.30. Sixty percent of this tax cut will go to 4,100 individuals making $500,000 or more. Now they are going to sell you on this lie that they are going to take this money and reinvest into our state. I have heard this story before and don’t believe it. If

they are serious about investing in our state, then start investing in our future doctors, lawyers, nurses, policemen, firemen and teachers.

Be aware of who you are voting for and what laws they are passing. Even if you don’t support public education there are more than 4,100 people in this state. They are passing laws that are not in our best interest and they will continue to do that if we the people do not hold them accountable for their actions.

Please support #RedforED because properly funding our public schools would help with teacher pay issues, put money back into our schools, and provide many other opportunities for the children of this state.

Matt Schock Avondale

Investigate Hickman’s Family Farms

Editor:

When my husband and I were transferred to Arizona in 1981 due to work, we fell in love with Arizona and its myriad of cultures.

The continuing underbelly, it seems, is a counterculture that believes if you

Letters

welcome or work with change, you are liberal and reactionary. We are (or used to be) liberal Republicans.

Arizona disabused us of the notion that we could remain Republicans because of the hateful, biased rhetoric we heard at the local party meetings.

I write this as a preamble to assure you that we are not white, angry seniors seeking to oppose change. We see change as a constant, and seek ways to work with it.

I ask you to revisit and look afresh at the complexity of Hickman’s operations in Arlington and Tonopah. We are happy retirees in Tonopah, who love the independence and diversity of the people here. We also experience the escalating smells and toxicity of our community’s air. If you visit Arlington Elementary School, and walk the playground and visit the cafeteria, you will smell the hideous air and witness the plethora of feathers, assorted dander and filth that millions of chickens produce and these children breathe.

We are not even addressing the issue of humane treatment of animals. I’m no tree hugging liberal, but it doesn’t take much brain power to realize that these animals have no quality of life whatsoever. Stuffing millions of chickens in cramped metal sheds

provides nothing except profit, without consideration or conscience.

Lastly, there is a murky, rather mysterious factor as to who is employed in the active “care” of these animals. Whether there are convicts, locals, documented or undocumented workers, the impact to ones health in breathing all this is horrifying. My husband and I were waiting our turn at a dental office in Los Algodones when a young man and his wife signed in and seated themselves. The wife was in pain and taken immediately to the back. The husband started chatting with us and shared how happy he was to finally have work and be able to take his wife to a dentist so that she could be free of pain. As we talked, I looked up and saw that he wore a Hickman’s hat. Throughout our visit, he coughed constantly, and his eyes watered continually. He saw my look, and assured me he wasn’t contagious. He said his system just had to get used to working with the chickens there. When I asked him how long he had been employed, his reply was “six months.” A nice young man, working to care for his family, could not hold a conversation with all this tearing and coughing. His buddies at work told him his body would settle down. Please prioritize this and investigate more deeply.

Carroll and Leslie Saunders Tonopah

Supporting education in Arizona

Editor:

My greatest fear – the #REDforED movement will lose momentum. I want to know how many people are for this movement and are really ready to commit to the process necessary for our children’s success.

I grew up in Phoenix and never imagined I’d be a teacher. I joined the ranks at 30 and have spent the last two years wondering why it took me so long to find my way home. The gift of serving through the beautiful struggle that educators face day-in and day-out is my life force.

I know where children end up when education fails them. I have seen the tiny jail cells and the depression living in every ounce of their adolescent beings. You cannot unsee a child behind a cell door. I see the roadmap laid out in front of countless children in my own community – prison – due to faltering literacy rates and socioeconomic/political instability. I see the suffering in little faces, wondering why school is such a struggle. You know what the demands are and you know the ugly underbelly of why this movement dare not lose momentum. If you read this and believe every child deserves an equitable education, you will join the cause. You will get involved and look into the classrooms throughout our entire state. Our children should not be suffering, and committed educators should be able to survive. I hope to never stand alone because you, too, will make sure this movement never loses momentum until children win.

Raini Goatson

Goodyear

Addressing Harry Callahan

Editor:

Teachers have 10 weeks off during the summer and one for spring and fall breaks. Most companies provide for two weeks paid vacation, so the 10 weeks is not, as you stated in your letter, half the year off.

Let me help you understand how many hours teachers actually work for the tax dollars we pay them.

Most teachers work 10 hours a day every day during the school year, not including after school mandatory meetings, grading papers after dinner, shopping for school supplies which they pay for, online certification courses, returning phone calls and emails to parents, and after school activities. They receive no overtime pay.

At a minimum, if you add up the hours, it’s well over 40 hours a week when averaged over an entire year. To be perfectly clear, teaching is no part-time job.

We send children to school every day to get an education from certified teachers with bachelor’s and master’s degrees who deserve our respect and fair compensation for the important work they do.

The facts don’t lie; Arizona’s teachers’ salaries rank 49th in the country, just ahead of Oklahoma but not for long. Oklahoma teachers just got a 15-percent increase; you do the math.

Teachers are also asking to increase funding for classrooms, which is long overdue.

Maybe you, sir, need a refresher coarse in basic math, because your numbers just don't add up.

Paul Naughton Goodyear

If we’re talking about digital privacy, it’s already too late

By David Leibowitz

With Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg set to testify before Congress April 11, expect plenty of chatter about what tech pundits call "online privacy." This is a purely fictional concept, I’m here to tell you. Why? Because whatever privacy we once enjoyed, online or off, died sometime in the last 20 years, somewhere between the time mankind traded handwritten missives and phone calls for emails, then followed that up a few years later by amassing like sheep in a Facebook herd.

Today, our every public utterance, message, post and image ought to be accompanied at least subconsciously by a digital Miranda warning:

Anything you say can and will be used against you, if not in a court of law, then by advertisers, companies seeking customers, political operatives, government and the just plain nosy.

The Cambridge Analytica scandal represents just the latest of many wake-up calls to this phenomenon. Personally, I noticed years ago that whenever I send or receive an email mentioning a product – say, a new golf ball, car or electronic

gizmo – I am immediately targeted by online ads for similar products. That inundation has only grown over time. Now, each time I use Google to search out a vacation destination or a pair of dress shoes, presto! Along comes a slew of ads selling different options for my consideration.

Besides that invasion into our so-called personal lives, there’s also everything we reveal via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, et cetera. For years, the rule of thumb I’ve used to advise clients is a simple one: Don’t post anything online that you’d have a hard time explaining to your Grandma, your kids or the HR person interviewing you for a job. That selfie of you doing bong hits in Rocky Point? No. You twerking at "da club?" No. You explaining how you’d like to beat President Trump unconscious with the inert form of Vice President Mike Pence? No again.

Back in the day, a work mentor explained to me that the best way to attend a party is to arrive a few minutes after it starts, leave long before it ends and in between stick to discussing the weather and puppies. If you want what you reveal online about your personal life not to bite you later on, I heartily recommend the same approach.

Personally, I’ve made protecting my privacy into something of a game – by lying. Every now and again, I find the need to check the rival newspaper over in Phoenix. Their website always asks annoying survey questions about their advertisers. I enjoy answering these questions by posing as a 74-year-old female Democrat from Casa Grande, a great-grandmother who drives a minivan and miraculously earns more than $500,000 a year, or whatever else I dream up. Between these fibs and using phony names and email addresses

whenever possible for website registrations, I feel like I’ve scored one for the good guys in the battle to preserve some shred of digital secrecy.

Little more than an illusion, you say? Probably so. Between the digital tracks left behind by our debit card purchases, Google searches, Facebook posts, whereabouts via cellphone GPS and the web of our friendships and business relationships, I have no doubt that the amount of information available about any one human being is so thorough as to be frightening. The more you hear self-styled "privacy advocates" babble, the more you have to wonder if we aren’t too late to reclaim and restore what once we took for granted.

Expect a political thunderstorm this week when Zuckerberg testifies. To me, that’s a lot like wondering why your house got robbed after you invited the thieves to dinner.

David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@ leibowitzsolo.com.

Whether you’re 18 or 80, good health starts with your primary care physician. The person who knows your history, your family and your health needs better than anyone. Someone who can coordinate care with a specialist if you need one. So take the smartest approach to your health. Let us help you find one that’s right for you.

Billy Evans, M.D. Family Medicine, Geriatrics, Pediatrics

Roxane Jueckstock, NP Family Medicine, Geriatrics, Pediatrics

David Leibowitz. (Photo courtesy Advisor Group)

Business Briefcase

By Connor Dziawura

Hello, everyone. Business is booming in the West Valley, and with that boom comes plenty of updates for me to send your way.

This week I have a jam-packed lineup of news. I’ve been receiving quite a few inquiries regarding upcoming Goodwill locations and a Fry’s Marketplace that I reported on last fall, so I’m giving you answers.

But beyond those updates, CarMax’s West Valley location is hiring, while Leadership West has quite a few interesting happenings coming up, and Pathways delayed the ribbon-cutting event I mentioned a few weeks back. Here are the details!

First, I’ll start with a pair of updates relating to Goodwill. In February, I reported on a Goodwill set to open at the northwest corner of Litchfield Road and Van Buren Street in March. It was, however, slightly postponed. It is now slated for May 11, according to a company spokesperson.

A bit further out, the popular thrift store is planning another location This one, which will be located at Yuma Road and Sarival Avenue, near Fry’s, is anticipated to arrive later this year, the spokesperson confirmed. No further information is available.

Moving along, I also mentioned Pathways Assisted Living and Memory Care’s previously planned ribbon-cutting ceremony several weeks back. It was ultimately canceled then rescheduled after West Valley View went to print. The event is set for noon Friday, April 20. Pathways is an assisted living and memory care complex featuring nine

10-bedroom homes. Pathways boasts living rooms, kitchens and studies, as well as the essential round-the-clock care staff, fun activities and dining opportunities.

Pathways is located at 4211 N. Pebble Creek Parkway, Goodyear. For more information on Pathways, visit pathwaysaz.com or call 602-633-2300.

For more information on this event, contact the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce at info@ southwestvalleychamber.org or 623932-2260.

The next item on the agenda is Leadership West. The West Valley organization is currently accepting nominations for leaders who have made a specific positive impact on their organization and community The deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. Thursday, April 26.

The four categories in which individuals can be nominated are Civic Leader of the Year, Business Leader of the Year, Nonprofit Leader of the Year and Alumnus of the Year. Individuals are not required to be Leadership West alumni to be nominated for the former three categories. For more information about Leadership West’s criteria, visit bit.ly/2018LWawards.

Finalists will be recognized at the annual Leadership West Awards Banquet, held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, June 8, at Wigwam Resort, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park. Tickets are marked as $45 for Leadership West Alumni Association members (though it varies based on membership level) or $65 for nonmembers. The event is open to the

public, but the registration deadline is Thursday, May 31. Business or cocktail attire is specified. Tickets can be purchased at leadershipwest.org. For more information or to register by phone, call 623-498-0828.

CarMax is hiring in the West Valley. The company is looking to fill 18 positions. Interested applicants can apply at jobs.carmax.com.

Positions include business office associates, sales consultants, parttime reconditioning associates and more. Most positions do not require automotive industry experience.

This comes on the heels of CarMax being recognized for its 14th consecutive year as one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For.

CarMax’s West Valley location is at 1041 N. 99th Avenue, Tolleson. Additionally, several readers have inquired about the future Fry’s Marketplace at Indian School Road and Jackrabbit Trail in Buckeye’s Verrado community. I previously reported on this in October, but due to reader interest, I checked in again with the city regarding the progress. As previously reported, the situation is the same. Because it had been delayed by parent company Kroger to evaluate the changing grocery business, it is still slated for completion in late 2019. I will keep on it in case Kroger changes plans for the location.

For a different type of information, and to round this week’s column out, Navajo Express hired former CFI President Tim Staroba as its

executive vice president

Navajo Express is a nationwide shipping and trucking company, and although it is based in Denver, Colorado, it has a terminal in Tolleson.

Staroba has more than 20 years of experience in the transportation and trucking industry. He began his work with Con-way Inc., which was eventually acquired by XPO Logistics.

“This is the perfect opportunity for me to continue my career in the growing industry of trucking while really being able to develop as a professional,” Staroba said. “I am thrilled to be working alongside such a forward-thinking and dedicated team.”

Those are all the briefs for this week! Thanks for reading!

Have an

item for Business

Briefcase? Email Connor Dziawura at cdziawura@timespublications.com

Navajo Express, a nationwide shipping and trucking company with one terminal in Tolleson, recently hired former CFI President Tim Staroba as its executive vice president. (Photo courtesy Navajo Express)

Java Trolley in full swing at Out West General Store

By Connor Dziawura

Bill and Leslie Chester have owned Out West General Store in Waddell for over a decade. But as the years have passed, the community’s needs from the old-fashioned general store have changed. In response, the Chesters have come up with innovative ways to grow.

Purchased by the Chesters in February, The Java Trolley previously operated as a mobile unit called Java Stop Trolley under different ownership. It’s now a permanent fixture in front of Out West General Store.

As a café-style unit, the Java Trolley serves frappes, cappuccinos, brewed coffee, cold brew coffee, Italian sodas, infused teas, or “all that good stuff,” as Leslie put it.

According to her, though, the biggest draw for customers is the historic look of “the trolley itself.”

“It’s a beautiful trolley,” she said. “It really is quite beautiful. They (previous owners) did an amazing job renovating it. They made it as original as they possibly could; in fact, they left the steering wheel in it.”

The previous owners purchased the 1992 Los Angeles electric trolley at a Glendale antique yard, Leslie said. By the time the Chesters acquired the trolley, it was restored and renovated for barista service.

With Out West General Store’s oldtime feel, Java Trolley is the venture the Chesters were looking for.

“When we saw the trolley and knew that they were interested in not doing that anymore, we thought it was a perfect fit,” Leslie said.

Though still a new addition, Leslie said other plans are in the works.

“It’s kind of a work in progress,” she said. “I mean it’s beautiful as it stands, but our hope is to create an outside Italian café feel. We’re going to put an awning on it. We’re going to put trees and lighting. That’s our plan over the next six months.”

Adding the Java Trolley is just one part of continued expansion for the general store, though.

“Last year our expansion was the deli,” Leslie said. “We’ve had the

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deli for several years, but we really expanded it and put in a grill and a fryer and everything last May. We named it Cowboy Café because it really is more of a café than it is a deli.”

The Cowboy Café serves food ranging from burritos and tacos to breakfast items, sub sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, pizza, wings and Thrifty Ice Cream, though other options are plentiful. The café also takes phone orders at 623-535-3813.

The Out West General Store opened in August 2005. Bill Chester is a thirdgeneration Arizonan.

“His lifelong dream was to build and own an old-fashioned general store like his great-grandparents had in Wyoming,” Leslie said.

The shop sells feed, tack, hardware, groceries, beer and more, though Bill was selling feed and tack several years prior to opening the brick and mortar location, Leslie explained.

She noted the deli/café renovations and addition of the Java Trolley as necessary additions within a changing community.

She has seen older, longtime residents move away while newcomers move in. Reduced horse ownership and a subsequent slight decline in the need for feed caused them to consider expansion through means such as these.

“We’ve kind of had to morph with it, which is part of the reason for the café and deli expansion,” she said. “That’s when we realized we have to be able to be flexible and change with what the needs of the community are.”

Java Trolley is open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Out West General Store is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, visit outwestgeneralstore.com or find it on Facebook, or visit Java Trolley on Instagram.

Out West General Store 17121 W. Glendale Avenue Waddell

623-535-3813

outwestgeneralstore.com

Out West General Store co-owner Leslie Chester, left, and barista Liz Devirro give an inside peek of the Waddell business's new Java Trolley. (West Valley View photo by Melissa Fossum)

Desert Edge ballplayers ‘having fun’

By Griffin Fabits

The Desert Edge Scorpions took batting practice on the field April 3 as music blared from speakers overhead.

A 2-6 start to the 2018 season wasn’t enough to faze this group, as they’ve rebounded nicely to win seven of its last nine games.

The Scorpions, with a roster rich of underclassmen, have just six seniors on the team after graduating nine seniors in 2017. The rest of the squad is made up of nine sophomores.

It’s safe to assume the Scorpions needed time to adjust to their new look.

“We didn’t really work as a team at first at all. There was no chemistry until we got to the point where we finally started hanging out with each other,” said senior Gio Gonzalez.

After bonding with their new teammates the first few games, the Scorpions clicked, demonstrating what a team effort looks like.

“I feel like we’re showing good leadership roles,” senior Zach Berthiaume said of the team’s recent streak.

It was just a matter of time before a potent offense, led by Gonzalez at the cleanup spot, woke up. He bats to the tune of a .375 average, after splitting time playing junior varsity and varsity squads over 12 games last spring.

Sophomore Jesus Cota, owning a .327 average and a team-high six extra-base hits, serves as protection to Gonzalez in the middle of the order.

“Cota is a really hot hitter. He sees the ball really well in the three-hole,” senior Gene Garcia said.

Desert Edge has scored at least five runs in each of its nine victories this season, averaging more than eight runs in games they win.

Willie Loera, who leads the team with 15 RBIs, applauded the seniors for instilling confidence in their younger teammates.

“It can give them confidence to keep going,” he said of his team’s 7-6 walk-off win against Sierra Linda on March 21.

Head coach Sean McCorry’s team is convinced it’ll make a second consecutive playoff appearance this spring as it learns and improves each night.

“I think it’s more about not putting too much pressure on you. It’s just a game

at the end of the day. I think last year we tried to do too much instead of playing our game,” senior Julian Garcia added.

The Scorpions were edged in the first round of the state tournament last season to the Buena Colts, 3-1.

The consensus among the seniors is that reaching tournament play again is the ultimate goal. But who says they have to stop there?

They certainly possess the senior leadership and sophomore swagger to make it one heck of a final ride for the six Scorpions playing in their last season at Desert Edge.

Gonzalez said the team must “trust the process,” while senior E.J. Varela pushed for the group to “just have fun” in the second half of its season.

“I think down the stretch of the season, you can’t throw in the towel. You have to have fun with the game, and do what you have to do to execute a victory,” Gene Garcia said.

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Infielder Cody Miller, a 16-year-old sophomore at Desert Edge High School, works on his swing. (West Valley View photo by Melissa Fossum)

Westview athletes feel motivated by new grade-check system

By Griffin Fabits

Westview High School studentathletes are feeling motivated in the classroom after the facility adopted a new grade-check system to stay eligible on the field or court, according to the school’s athletic director, Tonya Lee.

Lee, who has been in her position for three years, noticed a “vague” gradecheck in her first two years with the school.

“I didn’t feel like it was the best representation of our student-athletes,” she said. “Within our athletic director meetings, we all kind of agreed it wasn’t the most supportive of our studentathletes. We all agreed something needed to happen, but we weren’t sure where to go from there. We came together last year and decided to make a change.”

With Lee at the forefront, a change was made.

The school gave her permission in her second year to form a committee of teachers, coaches and administrators to find a way to better serve the student-

athletes.

“With our past eligibility system, they were out four to six weeks at a time so even when they got their grades up, they weren’t motivated to go back to practice. Or they weren’t motivated to get their grades up because the season would’ve been over. It really wasn’t the best testament to our mission, vision and values.”

If a student was failing a class during a grade-check in past years, the student would be ineligible for nearly half the season.

With Westview’s newfound approach, Lee monitors the students’ grades weekly.

“If you lose on week one, then on week two I’m only checking on the kids who’ve lost. When I check the kids that’ve lost, I’m checking to see if they got their grades up. It’s a minimum of one week required to sit out. If they’re passing the next week, they’re back in. You’re out until you get it up,” she said.

Lee said every other school in the Tolleson Union High School District

has followed in Westview’s footsteps and feels “very positive” after making the transition to the new grade-check program.

The new system has brought on a new meaning to the term “student-athlete,” as the kids feel more driven in the classroom.

“It’s really interesting and makes me super proud because I called in some student-athletes who struggled last year with eligibility. Now they’re more motivated to get that grade up so they can be there for their teammates. They like the accountability and they like the power that they have in controlling it.”

Westview High School Athletic Director Tonya Lee encourages student athletes to do their best. (Photo courtesy Tolleson Union High School District)

Computer Class (Ages 18+)

e West Valley View publishes on Wednesdays. e 9 Days a Week calendar – a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups – runs every issue.

Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the View’s coverage area, which is south of Northern Avenue, west of Loop 101, plus all of Tolleson, extending to Estrella in the south and Tonopah in the west. Events such as concerts and theatrical performances that fall outside the View’s circulation area will be considered because there are no concert halls or theater venues within our boundaries.

9 Days a Week calendar items print on a space-available basis. e only way to guarantee that an item will print is to purchase an advertisement.

Submissions must reach our office by 4 p.m. Wednesday to be considered for the following Wednesday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Rachel Hagerman, rhagerman@timespublications.com or faxed to 623-935-2103.

Wednesday APRIL

Master mouse skills, Microsoft Word, basic internet, email and more at 11 a.m. at the Avondale Civic Center Library, 11350 W. Civic Center Drive. For information, call 623-333-2602.

Al-Anon Stepping Stones

The Christ Presbyterian Church at 925 N. Sarival Avenue, Goodyear, hosts a weekly Al-Anon meeting at 7 p.m. Al-Anon seeks to support the friends and families of alcoholics. For information, call 623-882-0721.

Toddler Storytime

7 p.m. at the Sword of the Spirit Ministry, 501 W. Van Buren Street, Avondale. For information, call 623-932-4448.

Tai Chi @ the Library

Certified Tai Chi instructor John Leo will give free weekly lessons for adults at the White Tank Branch Library at 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Stay and Play

The Goodyear Branch Library at 14455 W. Van Buren Street invites parents to bring their children through age 5 to a fun play group at 10:15 a.m. that builds children’s motor and social skills. Toys can be checked out and brought home at the end of play group. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Saturday

20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Soulful Expressions

Open Mic Night (Ages 13+)

The Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive invites poets, comedians and musicians to share their art with others from 5 to 7 p.m. Arrive at 4:30 p.m. to sign up for a performance slot. For information, call 623-333-2602.

Cody’s Pack

Children can register to read with a special library dog from Cody’s Pack to practice literacy skills from 10 to 11:45 a.m. at the Buckeye Coyote Branch Library, 21699 W. Yuma Road. For information, call 623-349-6309.

breathing on Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-349-6350.

Baby Time

The Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street invites babies and their caregivers to an interactive play time at 1 p.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.

ASL Classes

The Coyote Branch Library at 21699 W. Yuma Road, Buckeye, is offering an ongoing series of classes on American Sign Language at 2 p.m. on Mondays. For information, call 623-349-6300.

EON Business Meet-up

Sunday

14

St. Peter’s RePete Boutique

11

Come & Play with Me

Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library hosts a weekly open-play group at 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale, at 11 a.m. for children through age 5. For information, call 623-333-2601.

POUND at Fitness in the Park

Fitness in the Park is a free workout program that will feature a fast-paced workout with drumsticks on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-349-6350.

Junior Book Club (Ages 8-12)

Children are encouraged to read a book each month before joining Lila for a book discussion and activities from 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. at the Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Children’s Community Choir

The Church at Litchfield Park offers a free music program for

children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Grades three through five will start at 5 p.m. and kindergarten through second grade will begin at 5:30 p.m. at 300 N. Old Litchfield Road. For information, call 623-935-3411.

Verrado Visionaries

Stop by the Verrado Grille at 4242 N. Golf Drive, Buckeye, to join fellow businessmen in a West Valley networking group at 7 a.m. each Wednesday. For information, call 623-640-6268.

Thursday

Bring children to the Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street, so they can hear picture books read aloud and play with other toddlers at 11 a.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Preschool Time

Help prepare preschoolers for reading through music, books, games and crafts from 10:15 to 11 a.m. at the Litchfield Park Branch Library, 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Toddler Time

Help prepare children ages 2-3 for reading through music, books, games and more from 11:15 a.m. to noon at the Litchfield Park Branch Library, 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. For information, call 602-6523000.

Friday

Stop by St. Peter’s Episcopal Church at 400 S. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, for casual and formal apparel, jewelry, books, household items and home décor between 9 a.m. and noon. For more information, call 623935-3279.

Litchfield Park Shred-A-Thon

King Enterprises is offering to shred personal documents and records free of charge from 8 a.m. to noon at the parking lot on the northwest corner of Wigwam Boulevard and Desert Avenue. For information, call 623-935-5101.

12

Grandparents Play & Learn (Ages 0-5)

The Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive invites grandparents and their grandchildren to a free activity with crafts, snacks, stories and music from 10:15 to 11 a.m. For information, call 623-333-2602.

Family Storytime (Ages 2-6)

Join other families for simple stories and plots that help develop literacy for children at 11:15 a.m. in the Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale. For information, call 623-333-2601.

Concert in the Park

Come Back Buddy Band will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. at Tartesso Sports Park, 30300 W. Tartesso Parkway, Buckeye. Concert attendance is free. Food vendors will be on site.

8th Annual Golf & Food Fest

Enjoy an afternoon filled with food, drinks and golf from 1:45 to 7 p.m. at The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Goodyear. Proceeds benefit a Goodyear Montessori school. Registration is required. For information, visit mipschool.org/golf.

A Night to Revive

Join a night of prayer and worship with fellow Christian writers at

Free April Movie Night

Join other families at 7:30 p.m. for a free showing of Despicable Me 3 at the Fred Campbell Park, 101 E. Lawrence Boulevard, Avondale. Attendees are invited to bring folding chairs or blankets and can arrive as early as 6:30 p.m. For information, call 623-333-2400.

Community Garage Sale

About forty Litchfield Park residents will hold garage sales at their homes between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. To find participating addresses and for more information, visit litchfield-park.org or call 623-9359040.

Master Gardener Q&A

Master Gardener volunteers will answer desert gardening questions from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the the White Tank Branch Library,

15

Sea Lions at Shipwreck Cove

Come see an educational show starring California Sea Lions and skilled trainers at 11:30 a.m. in a pirate-themed exhibit at Wildlife World Zoo, 16501 W. Northern Avenue, Litchfield Park. This show is free with admission. For information, call 623-935-9453.

Contemplative Prayer & Meditation

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church at 400 Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, invites people desiring to deepen their meditation practice or try meditation for the first time to join them from 5 to 6 p.m. Sundays. All faiths are welcome. For information, call 623-935-3279.

Meet fellow businessmen and entrepreneurs to share ideas, ask questions and receive advice at 6 p.m. at the Buckeye Library Coyote Branch, 21699 W. Yuma Road. For information, call 623-349-6354.

Teen Leadership Club

Teen Leadership Club is a group that creates and carries out new programs for the Goodyear Branch Library. The team meets from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the library, 14455 W. Van Buren Street. Registration is required. For information, call 602-651-3507.

Tuesday

Monday Hope

16

Stop by Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Classroom C at 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, for the Hope support group from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The goal of the group is to provide help for those struggling with any mental disorder by sharing experiences and supporting others. For information, call 480-994-4407.

Ignite Yoga

at Fitness in the Park Fitness in the Park is a free workout program that will feature yogic postures, alignment and

Bingo

The American Legion Post #61 hosts bingo each Tuesday night starting at 6:45 p.m. These bingo nights have 17 games including Quickie, Early Bird, Double Action and a $1,000 progressive game. Come down to 35 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, to support the area’s youth and veterans. For information, call 623-932-4960.

Buckeye Business Connection

Buckeye Chamber hosts the Buckeye Business Connection from 7:15 to 8:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Chamber office at 508 E. Monroe Avenue. This group serves coffee and a light breakfast and networks with business members in the community. Each week, there will also be a different guest speaker. For information, call 623-386-2727.

PiYo at Fitness in the Park Fitness in the Park is a free workout program that will feature pilates and yoga on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-349-6350.

Tech Help

Master eBooks, email, Word

and more from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Estrella Toastmasters

Visit a Toastmasters Community meeting to become a stronger public speaker and leader from 6:30 to 7:45 a.m. at the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce, 289 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 602-391-5781.

Preschool Art Studio

Litchfield Park Branch Library at 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard invites preschool-age children to participate in an hour of art at 10:30 a.m. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Three Rivers Historical Society Meeting

ADOT will present on the planned

Tres Rios Freeway from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Goodyear Public Library, 14455 W. Van Buren. For information, call 602-391-5781.

Wednesday

and math from 2 to 3 p.m. For information, call 623-333-2601.

18

Preschoolers Storytime

The Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street invites preschool-age children to read books, sing songs and take part in activities at 11 a.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Agua Fria Toastmasters

Visit a Toastmasters Community meeting to become a stronger public speaker and leader from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. at the Goodyear Public Library, 14455 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 602391-5781.

STEAM Spot

The Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library at 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale, holds an interactive program for kids interested in science, technology, engineering, art

Needle & Thread

The Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive invites adults to bring a coffee mug and materials to join fellow crafters for needlework, knitting and crocheting at 10:30 a.m. For information, call 623-333-2602.

More to Explore

Kids ages 6 to 12 can build structures, experiment, play games and make crafts at this interactive learning program, which runs from 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays at the Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive. For information, call 623-333-2602.

Teen Volunteer Wednesdays (Ages 12-18)

Teens looking to meet new friends and volunteer for school

credit can meet at the Avondale Civic Center Library’s Volunteer Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. at 11350 Civic Center Drive. For information, call 623-333-2602.

program that will feature cardio, weight lifting and core training on Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-349-6350.

Thursday In Stitches in Goodyear

19

Enjoy tea and coffee and meet fellow crafters and work on crochet, knitting or sewing projects. Come by the Goodyear Branch Library at 14455 W. Van Buren Street from 1:30 to 3 p.m. to join. For information, call 602-652-3000.

CrossFit Fury at Fitness in the Park Fitness in the Park is a free workout

Tynker Code Club (Ages 6-8)

Learn to code while playing computer games from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. at the Litchfield Park Branch Library, 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. For information, call 602-652-3000.

United Way Storytime (Ages 0-6)

Children can sing, listen to stories and craft at 1 p.m. at the Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale. The first 25 children will receive a free book to take home. For information, call 623-333-2601.

Adult Book Discussion

Stop by the Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 Civic Center Drive to pick up and read a copy of Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen before the library’s discussion at noon. For information, call 623-333-2602.

Tolleson dancer featured in ‘Tough as Nails’

By Rachel Hagerman

Valley-based CaZo Dance Company will tell the story of a California couple who struggled with brain cancer and fertility issues in its latest production, Tough as Nails.

Performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 13, and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at Phoenix Center for the Arts.

CaZo Dance Company’s artistic director Bridgette Borzillo, of Gilbert, created the interpretive dance piece after reading about the journey of her cousins, Phil and Stacy Bacigalupi.

The Bacigalupis were married for six years when they decided to try for a baby. However, Phil was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in 2011. It proved to be a six-year battle for the couple, but a year ago, Phil ran a half marathon a week after his baby, Sophie, was born. Phil’s nickname is “Tough as Nails.”

Stacy posted a photo of the three of them at the race’s finish line on Facebook, therefore inspiring Borzillo.

“I knew right then that I had to ask them if I could use their story,” she said.

Tough as Nails’ cast includes lead female dancer Samantha Brown of Tolleson; lead male dancer Brayan Perez of Mesa and a Scottsdale Community College student; and dancer Misty West of Ahwatukee.

“Tough as Nails is an emotional story told through the power of dance,” Borzillo said. “Attendees can expect to feel raw emotion from the performers, especially from the incredible leads, Samantha Brown and Brayan Perez. We are a unique dance company because we tell these stories through movement, acting and music, and we make sure the story is easy to follow.”

Borzillo created Tough as Nails in hopes that Phil and Stacy’s story would raise awareness about brain tumors and fertility problems.

According to the CDC, 10 percent of women in the United States struggle with fertility, and the National Brain Tumor Society estimates that 78,980 Americans will be diagnosed with a brain tumor this year.

Borzillo is credited with creating Tough as Nails, but the dancers used their own interpretations to unveil the Bacigalupis’ journey. Borzillo is impressed with her 18-member

dance team of CaZo Dance Company performers.

“The dancers really step up where they are needed in rehearsals and come together as a team to get the product right,” she said. “I am extremely blessed to work with such talent.”

Following the performance, CaZo will host a Q&A session with the Bacigalupis.

“We have never done a Q&A as a part of our shows, but in this instance, I felt it was important to ask questions about what was told to get clarity and to have more insight,” Borzillo said.

Along with raising awareness, CaZo is raising funds to benefit those struggling with brain cancer. CaZo is donating $3 from every ticket sold to the National Brain Tumor Society.

Borzillo is excited to see the couple’s story come to life on stage and hopes the performance will bring about positive change.

“It’s been beautiful to watch. I am excited to use dance as a platform to raise awareness and funds for a good cause. I wanted to create something that is about inspiration, hope, kindness, strength, perseverance and love. That’s what the world needs right now. Maybe Tough as Nails can help with some healing, even if it’s a small amount of people.”

Tough as Nails

7:30 p.m. Friday, April 13, and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 14

Phoenix Center for the Arts, 1202 N. Third Street, Phoenix $20-$45 cazodance.com

Samantha Brown of Tolleson and Brayan Perez of Mesa play Stacy and Phil Bacigalupi in Tough as Nails at the Phoenix Center for the Arts on Friday, April 13, and Saturday, April 14.

(Photo by Stephanie Tippi Hart)

CLYDESDALES VISIT BUCKEYE BAR

Budweiser visited Waddell’s Longhorn Corral in Buckeye, where guests braved the cool weather and rain to get a close look at the majestic team of iconic Clydesdale horses and Dalmatian recently. Budweiser tours its vehicle, horses and Dalmatian to interested bars that sell its beer. This was the fourth time Waddell’s Longhorn Corral has hosted the Clydesdales. Pictured above, Budweiser Clydesdale handler Doug Bousselot stands with Rico, a 9-year-old Clydesdale gelding. (West Valley View photo by Jordan Christopher)

Mr. Bandit helps comfort Red Cross volunteers, staff

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

West Valley resident Terri Carruthers hands out Life Savers while visiting volunteers and staff at the American Red Cross Greater Phoenix Chapter’s office. She adopted this idea from a Red Cross tagline: together we can save a life.

She knows each person’s favorite flavors and leaves them on their desks if they aren’t there. Meanwhile, her therapy dog, Mr. Bandit, wanders the office, wagging his tail and bringing smiles to everyone he comes across.

Carruthers has volunteered with the Red Cross since 1998 as a morale booster, giving people an opportunity to get their minds off disaster relief and offering a moment of fun in what might be a stressful day.

Her first therapy dog for the Red Cross was Lady Lace, then ’Lil Bit volunteered with her for 14 years at the Red Cross offices and also helped disaster victims at shelters.

When Mr. Bandit, a Chiweenie, visits with Red Cross volunteers and staff, he provides a “quiet miracle.’’

“We hear computers clanking away and the phones ringing. Then Mr. Bandit comes over and he provides a peaceful moment to help the staff and volunteers know that they are cared about,” Carruthers said.

She has been training Miss Cuddles, a 10-pound terrier mix, to provide pet therapy, since she got her in October 2017. She will be joining Mr. Bandit soon.

“Miss Cuddles recently passed her Canine Good Citizen Test and is doing

well with her training. Pet therapy dogs are professional. They are not coming to play. They are there to do a job,’’ Carruthers said.

Carruthers and Bandit don’t want to be an interruption, she said, but rather “an addition” to the work that’s being performed. “I’m glad to be a part of it,” she said. “And I’m glad they allow me to bring the dogs. We feel honored to help the Red Cross, in our special way.”

Carruthers has been volunteering with therapy dogs for the past 25 years at Banner University Medical Center where she continues to cheer up patients and staff.

“I saw a German shepherd with a Red Cross vest on a magazine cover and that’s when I decided to have Lady Lace volunteer to cheer up Red Cross workers,’’ she said.

Pet therapy provides many benefits to people of all ages.

“We help relieve stress and lessen loneliness, fear and anxiety. We listen to people’s stories. We provide a comforting presence and make people feel good and that someone cares,’’ she added.

For more information about volunteering, please call the Red Cross Greater Phoenix Chapter at 602-3366660 or go to redcross.org/Phoenix.

Terri Carruthers brings Mr. Bandit, her Chiweenie, to visit with Red Cross volunteers and staff. (Photo courtesy Red Cross)

DancEstrella gets personal with ‘Moving Portraits’

By Lynette Carrington

The thought-provoking production Moving Portraits will come to the Estrella Mountain Community College stage Friday, April 27, and Saturday, April 28, thanks to DancEstrella, the student dance company.

Students chose the dances’ personal subject matter, according to Janaea Lyn McAlee, the artistic director and residential dance faculty. She said students are paired by their “heart story.”

“It’s what they’re bringing to the table and what their movement idea is around their personal idea,” McAlee said. “It creates a level playing field and everyone has their truth to explore through movement. My role is more of a mentor and facilitator.”

Identity is the theme of Moving Portraits, which features 18 performances. There is a portrait, but that portrait is not necessarily all there is to someone’s story. A Q&A session with DancEstrella students follows each show.

“The audience can ask questions about the dance and what they’ve seen,” McAlee explained.

“I also make sure that every single student speaks at some point during those shows. Even the shyest person has to speak, and they are all so amazingly eloquent.”

McAlee has been with EMCC for five years and is the first full-time faculty in the DancEstrella program.

“Since we’ve been in the performing arts center, the program has been able to develop and graduate majors,” McAlee said.

Prior to the opening of the performing arts center, the company performed annually. Now there are two performances each year – one performance at the end of each semester. Each semester, there are about 20

students in DancEstrella.

“The interesting thing is that we’re a student performing company, but there are no auditions,” MeAlee said. “Anybody who wants to participate can. There is a mix of majors, nonmajors, levels of training and different styles of training. I believe it gives a rich experience when you’re working with people from different backgrounds.”

The artistic director is proud of her students’ technical accomplishments, and their willingness to explore personal experience.

“The majority of the works are made collaboratively by the students,” she said.

“The process is different, and they don’t come in and learn steps. It’s really about developing a creative process.”

Each semester DancEstrella students select a broad theme and from there, each student brings a personal aspect to the theme. That element could be a movement, a lyric, a line of text or an image, and then the students must share the backstory on their contribution as told through dance.

Graduating practicum student Ali Ruiz is leaving DancEstrella with her final duet, Next Adventure, with Jessi Vincent.

“The most amazing thing I see time and again is that there is more unity and power in inherent intention than in everybody kicking their leg at the same time in unison,” McAlee said.

Moving Portraits

3 and 7 p.m. Friday, April 27, and Saturday, April 28

Estrella Mountain Community

WORSHIP WITH US

Uplifting Music/Inspiring Sermons

9:00am - Traditional Worship Service Nursery/Children’s Church

10:30am - Contemporary Worship Service Nursery/Sunday School

College Performing Arts Center, 3000 N. Dysart Road, Avondale Tickets are free

estrellamountain.edu/ programs/dance

Dancers Esmeralda Castro and Eva Patricia Rincon take part in Moving Portraits by DancEstrella. (Photo courtesy Francisco Rojas)

around the neighborhood

MuscleKingz Car Show and Concert

The inaugural MuscleKingz Car Show and Concert was held at Goodyear Ballpark on Saturday, March 31. The family-friendly event boasted plenty of classic muscle cars; though it wasn’t just that. Motorcycles were also on site. Aside from being able to check out the beautiful cars, guests were able to participate in games – including a Kids’ Zone and Easter egg hunt. In between the fun games and exciting vehicles, guests could grab a drink, a bite to eat and check out headlining performances from Night Ranger and 38 Special.

1. The event featured tons of classic cars; 2. Craig and Erin Ocock of Avondale show off their vehicle, which was built in Valle de Guadalupe’s Rancho Sordomundo, Mexico, by deaf students; 3. The Dull family: Duke, 4; Jonah, 9; and Jake, walked the car show grounds to check out the vehicles; 4. The Gomez family – Oscar Gomez Jr., Oscar Gomez Sr. and Miguel Gomez – built this 1966 Impala Convertible SS from the ground up in 10 years; 5. A purple Mustang was just one of the event’s many vehicles; 6. This Ford left guests green with envy; 7. Elisa Gutierrez and Daniel Higgins of Phoenix had a great time.

3 4 6 2 5 7 1

West Valley View photos by Melissa Fossum

King Crossword

Sean E. ompson, Funeral Director

Cynthia ompson, Owner

Estrella Foothills student defies odds, heads to Harvard

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

When community college counselors told Seth Filo he’d never make it to Harvard, he wanted to prove them wrong.

“I went to my local community college to take classes in the summer because I wanted to go into computers,” Filo recalled. “I was talking to college advisers and they asked where I wanted to go to college. I said, ‘Harvard.’ They said I would never get there.

“It gave me a little bit of vengeance. It’s always been where I’ve wanted to go.”

An Estrella Foothills High School senior, Filo accomplished his dream: He’ll start Harvard in the fall.

“Being immediately cut down as a sixth grader, I wanted to do whatever it took to prove them wrong,” he said. “But I also didn’t think I had a chance. I’m just a regular kid from Arizona. I don’t have extremely affluent parents. I haven’t cured cancer. The odds were stacked against me. It’s been an absolute blessing.”

Filo received financial aid or a scholarship from Harvard and the Elks, for which he was a state finalist. Now, he is one of the national finalists for an Elks scholarship. He’s guaranteed $20,000, but he’ll interview in Chicago at the end of this month for a chance to win an additional $30,000 to $50,000 in scholarship money.

“We’re over the moon,” said his mother, Kelly. “He’s been driven

since he was little. He’s always been motivated. I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s paid off.”

His favorite subject at Estrella Foothills is political science. He looks up to John F. Kennedy and Mark Zuckerberg.

“For Mark Zuckerberg, I have a deep appreciation for the self-made man –people who didn’t have much growing up and had to make their own name,” he said.

He’s also a “huge history buff.” He traveled to Washington, D.C., with his mother on a college tour.

“It was one of the most surreal experiences,” he said. “It was the best trip of my life. History just flew through that city like electricity.”

Filo called his biggest achievement serving as president of the Future Business Leaders of America, a 250,000-member group.

“It’s based on public speaking, role playing and business situations,” he said. “I had the honor of being state president of Arizona. I made changes to our organization. Our social media presence grew tenfold.

“I’m also in theater, I play soccer, I’m in speech and debate. Outside of school, I’m a huge sports buff. I do a lot of sports research.”

A former Ohio resident, he admitted to being a Cleveland Browns fan.

“For a while, I wanted to be an NFL

scout,” he said. “I’m really into all things football. Strangely, I’ve never been to an NFL game. I had the fortune of going to the Fiesta Bowl to see Penn State vs. Washington. So, I’m working my way up there to the NFL.”

Filo, who was only recently accepted to Harvard, said he thought he would be nervous to attend the Ivy League university.

“Everybody there is extremely talented and smart,” he said. “I thought it would be an intimidating environment,

but I want to spend my life helping others. I want to go to Boston and start my career improving communities. I want to make a change.”

Later, he plans to pursue a political career.

“I want to make life quantifiably better for American families,” he said. “I’d love to reform the health care system. It hit my family particularly hard, with the rising premium rates. I’d like everyone to have health insurance, if they would like it.”

‘Despicable Me 3’ set for April Movie Night

By Connor Dziawura

Families can stop by Fred Campbell Park Saturday, April 14, to see the continued adventures of Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) and his Minions, when Avondale’s Neighborhood Movie

Nights screens Despicable Me 3.

The movie will begin at approximately 7:30 p.m., though families are encouraged to arrive as early as 6:30 p.m. for pre-event

festivities and games.

The event is free, as is popcorn, and families are encouraged to bring folding chairs or blankets.

Fred Campbell Park is located at 101 E. Lawrence Boulevard, Avondale.

For more information, call Avondale Recreation at 623-333-2400 or visit avondaleaz.gov/events.

Estrella Foothills High School senior Seth Filo will head to Harvard on a scholarship. (West Valley View photo by Melissa Fossum)

Padgett student broils his way to victory with a veggie slaw

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Gabriel Bandera is fascinated with the Food Network and his dream is to be on Beat Bobby Flay

The 11-year-old student at Goodyear’s Mabel Padgett Elementary School is a step closer, thanks to his Purple Explosion broiled vegetable slaw, which won the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona 2018 Walk On! Kids Cooking Challenge.

As part of its effort to inspire kids to make healthier choices, in January, BCBSAZ invited kids ages 9-12 across the state to submit ideas for healthy side dish recipes. Recipes had to be original, include at least one fruit or vegetable and be able to be prepared in 20 minutes or less.

“I’m really excited,” Gabriel said. “My recipe is called the Purple Explosion because it has beets in it. It’s a broiled vegetable slaw. It’s very original.

“I take eight different vegetables and I shred them through the food processor. I mix them with oil, salt and pepper, and then I put them under the broiler for about 5 minutes and let them cool.”

After it cools, he makes his mandarin dressing – citrus and honey, instead of the less-healthy sugar. Then, he mixes in mandarin slices and parsley.

Recipe submissions underwent a three-part scoring process. First, a nutrition specialist reviewed all the recipe submissions and chose the top five finalists based on each recipe’s level of nutrition.

Then the top five finalists participated

in a public event at a Phoenix Suns home game, where game attendees had a chance to taste and vote for their favorite recipe. For the third part of the scoring process, videos of contestants discussing what makes their recipe so good were posted online for a public vote. The recipe that received the most points from all three scoring categories was declared the winner.

“This year’s recipe submissions were fun and full of great nutrition,” said Myrna Collins, health promotion executive at BCBSAZ.

“Gabe’s recipe was an excellent use of an array of vegetables and most of them are lower on the glycemic index. I love that he used root vegetables, made his dressing from real ingredients – nothing processed – and incorporated seasonal items like mandarins. Plus, roasting the vegetables caramelizes them giving them a wonderful flavor, which is a great way to get children to eat more vegetables.”

As the winner of the 2018 contest, Gabriel would have received a new bike. However, because he received a bike for Christmas from his family, he and Blue Cross came together to procure $500 in sports equipment for the New Life Center, an emergency shelter for domestic violence victims in Goodyear.

“We are super proud of him,” said Gabriel’s mom, Sherri Bandera.

“He wanted the kids to have sports equipment, even just a ball – something to play with. I reached out to the New

Life Center and asked if they were interested. They did have needs. They were recently delivered and that was pretty cool.”

A sports fan, Gabriel has turned to magic tricks when he’s not cooking. His favorite subjects are math and lunch, naturally. He is a black belt in kung fu.

“I am so proud of him,” said Sherri, who is married to Pablo Bandera. “He had something he wanted to do, and he did it. It’s courageous. I asked him if he wanted to participate in the contest, but I didn’t push him.

“I said, ‘What do you want to do?’ He said he wanted to broil some veggies. He told me what he wanted, and I picked them up. We just started experimenting.”

Experimenting in the kitchen is nothing new to Gabriel. His parents encouraged him to make guacamole after he said he craved it. It has since become a hit with his family, and he makes it for special occasions.

“I saw him the other day and he was watching Trisha Yearwood on the Food Network. He loves Beat Bobby Flay. He’s always watching that show. That’s his dream. He wants to be on Beat Bobby Flay.”

Funeral Chapel

Gabriel Bandera, 11, won a Blue Cross Blue Shield cooking contest, thanks to Phoenix Suns fans, with his Purple Explosion slaw. (Photo courtesy Blue Cross Blue Shield)

STATE OF MAINE DISTRICT COURT

PENOBSCOT, ss LOCATION: Bangor DOCKET NO RE-17-102

CITIMORTGAGE, INC ORDER ON PLAINTIFF'S PLANTIFF MOTION FOR SERVICE BY V PUBLICATION

JOWANA J ROBINSON

DEFENDENT TITLE TO REAL ESTATE IS INVOLVED

Before the Court is the Motion of Plaintiff’s attorney, Loraine L Hite, Esq , of the law firm of Bendett & McHugh, PC, 270 Farmington Ave , Suite 151, Farmington, CT 06032 for an Order allowing Service by Alternate Means on the Defendant Jowana J Robinson, named in a Summons and Complaint, Title to Real Estate Involved, now pending before this Honorable Court M R Civ P 4 (g) (1) Plaintiff moves for service to be made on the Defendant Jowana J Robinson, by publishing a copy of this Order once a week for three (3) successive weeks in the Bangor Daily News which is a newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Bangor and County of Penobscot, Maine and in the West Valley View which is a newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Chandler and County of Maricopa, Arizona Plaintiff’s Motion is GRANTED

This is an action for the foreclosure of a mortgage on real property and may affect real property of the Defendant’s located at 341 Birch Street, Bangor, ME 04401, and described in such Mortgage Deed as recorded in Book 11635 at Page279 in the Penobscot County Registry of Deeds, Bangor, Maine After due diligence, Plaintiff CitiMortgage, Inc , has been unable to make personal service of Plaintiff’s Summons and Complaint, Title to Estate Involved, on Defendant Jowana J Robinson Plaintiff has met the requirements of Rule 4(g)(1)(A)-(C) M R Civ P 4(g)(1)(A)-(C); 4(g)(2)

IT IS ORDERED that service be made upon the Defendant Jowana J Robinson by publishing a copy of this Order once a week for three (3) successive weeks in the Bangor Daily News, a newspaper of general circulation in Penobscot County Bangor Daily News which is a newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Bangor and County of Penobscot, Maine and in the West Valley View which is a newspaper of general circulation in the Town of Chandler and County of Maricopa, Arizona; and by mailing a copy of this Order as published to the Defendant at 2180 E Bellerive Place, Chandler, AZ 85249, the last known address of Defendant Jowana J Robinson This method and manner of service is reasonably calculated to provide actual notice of the pendency of the action to defendant Jowana J Robinson IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Defendant Jowana J Robinson, being served by publication, appear and serve an Answer to the Motion or Complaint on counsel for Plaintiff, Loraine L Hite, Bendett & McHugh, PC, 270 Farmington Avenue, Suite 151, Farmington, CT 06032 The Answer must be filed with the Court by mailing to the following address: Clerk of Court, Bangor District Court, 78 Exchange Street, Bangor, Maine 04401, within forty-one (41) days after the first publication of this Order IMPORTANT NOTICE

IF YOU FAIL TO SERVE AN ANSWER WITHIN THE TIME STATED ABOVE, OR IF, AFTER YOU ANSWER, YOU FAIL TO APPEAR AT ANY TIME THE COURT NOTIFIES YOU TO DO SO, A JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU IN YOUR ABSENCE FOR THE MONEY DAMAGES OR OTHER RELIEF DEMANDED IN THE COMPLAINT. IF THIS OCCURS, YOUR EMPLOYER MAY BE ORDERED TO PAY PART OF YOUR WAGES TO THE PLAINTIFF OR YOUR PERSONAL PEROPERTY, INCLDUING BANK ACCOUNTS AND YOUR REAL ESTATE, MAY BE TAKEN TO SATISFY THE JUDGMENT IF YOU INTEND TO OPPOSE THIS LAWSUITE, DO NOT FAIL TO ANSWER WITHIN THE REQUIRED TIME

If you believe the Plaintiff is not entitled to all or part of the claim set forth in the Complaint or if you believe you have a claim of your own against Plaintiff, you should talk to a lawyer If you feel you cannot afford to pay a fee to a lawyer, you may ask the Clerk of Court, Bangor District Court, for information as to places where you may seek legal assistance

The clerk shall enter the following on the docket: The ORDER dated March 13 2018, is incorporated in the docket by reference This entry is made in accordance with M R Civ P 79 (a) at the specific direction of the Court

Date: March 13, 2018

OBITUARIES

ChuckBaumann

Charles(Chuck)Baumann,age85, diedonMonday,April2ndin Goodyear.Hewassurroundedby hiswife,Kay,andhischildren.He wasabelovedhusbandforover58 years,fatheroffivewithtwo wonderfulson-in-laws,grandfather (Papou)oftwo,andlovingbrother. Hewasaquiet,humble,andproud manwithawickedsenseofhumor. Hecouldalwaysmakeuslaugh.He woreapocketprotectorlikenobody'sbusiness.That washistrademarkalongwithafreshstackofindex cardstuckedbehindhispen.Italwaysmadeussmile wheneverhe'drefertohis"notes".

Hewasabrilliantman.Afterretiringandmovingto PebbleCreek,hevolunteeredthousandsofhours tutoringmathfor12yearsatPerryvillePrison.He wantedtoplayasmallroleinhelpingthesewomen bettertheirlives!

HewasborninDetroit,Michiganin1932andspent hiscareerintheaerospaceindustryasanengineer afterservingintheAirForce.Thehighlightofhis careerwasbeingpartoftheApolloteamthatput thefirstmanonthemoon.Hewasalsopartofthe Titan,Gemini,Viking,andSpaceShuttleteams.

Hefoughtalong,hardbattlethatwasoften difficultandpainfulforustowatch,knowingthere wasabsolutelynothingwecoulddo.Unfortunately, helostthatbattle.Weareallsad,buttakecomfort inknowinghe'snolongersuffering.

Hemayhaveleftthisworld,buthewillneverleave ourhearts!Untilthedaycomeswhenweseeeach otheragain,welovehimtothemoonandback!

Inlieuofflowers,donationsmaybemadetothe inpatientunitofHospiceoftheValleylocatedat 14066W.WaddellRd.,Surprise,AZ85379. Condolencesforthefamilymaybeleftat www.simplycremationaz.com.

JamesIraBurr,Sr.

JamesIraBurr,Jr.,age68of AvondalediedMarch21,2018in Avondale.HewasbornMay20, 1949inPainesville,OHtoJamesand HazelBurr.

JamesservedasaSergeantinthe USAirForcefrom1970-1974 duringtheVietnamWar.Following thewarhecompletedover30 yearsofemploymentwiththe Veteran'sAdministration.He receivedseveralawards,includingtwocongressional awardsforhisVAService.

Jamesissurvivedbyhisson,ThomasBurr;sisters,Faith Peterson,PatriciaGraham,LindaCefelli;andbrothers, NelsonandJonnyBurr.Hewasprecededindeathbyhis wife,LindaBurr,andson,ChristopherBelliveau.

BurialwillbeatEbenezerCemetery,14764Wooster Road,MountVernon,OH.Thefamilysuggeststhat donationsbemadetotheVeteransofForeignWar,or theJerryLeeLewisFoundation.Condolencesforthe familymaybeleftatwww.thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

Chris Edward Lehmkuhl

Chris Edward Lehmkuhl, son, husband, and father left

G o t h e n b u r g , N E .

Judge/Justice

o f

He is survived by his father Charles William Lehmkuhl; f i v e b r o t h e r s , M a r k , M i c h a e l , S t e v e , E r i c , J e f f r e y ; a n d

t w o s i s t e r s , M a r c i e a n d M e l a n i e . H e i s a l s o s u r v i v e d b y

and two step-grandchildren, Patrick and Charlotte Wagner and several nieces and nephews A M e m o r i a l S e r v i c e i s p l a n n e d f o r S a t u r d a y , A p r i l 2 8, 2018 at 10:00 am at the First Southern Baptist Church of Avondale. Located at 1001 N Central Ave, Avondale, AZ 85323

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions i n his name be made to the First Southern Baptist Churc h of Avondale. or to the Donor Network, 201 W Coolidge Av, Phoenix, AZ 85013

M.(Mary)Olive(Marshall)Smith

Olive, 87,enteredtheChurch TriumphantMarch27,2018in Phoenix.ShewasraisedbyThomas AlbertMarshallandMaryBella (Brown)MarshallofGloucester,NJ. Sheisprecededindeathbyher husband,HaroldJames(Pat)Smith; parents;sisters,BettyandGrace; brothers,TomandBill.Sheis survivedbyherchildrenSandra (JohnManobianco),David(Jill),and Kevin(Nancy);sevengrandchildren:Daniel(Egie), Nathan(Ruthie),Lisa(Ernie),Vanessa(David),Karin (Alex),KelseyandKristenandsevengreatgrandchildren: Bella,Hunter,Abigail,Diana,Eliza,DominicandMegan. AcelebrationhonoringOlive'slife,washeldon Saturday,April7thatMaranathaBaptistChurchin Peoria.ThefamilyhasrequestedtheInternmentbe private.

Inlieuofflowers,memorialdonationsmaybemade toHospiceoftheValleybymailoronlineat https://hov.org/donate/.Condolencesforthefamily maybeleftatwww.thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

Derek E. Swanson

Derek E. Swanson, 15, of Avon died March 17, 2018 from complica

RobertRayEmerson

RobertRayEmerson,83,of Buckeye,diedFriday,March30, 2018,inaGoodyearhospital.He wasbornSeptember9,1934,in Sallisaw,Oklahoma.Heloved gardening,fishingandbeingwith hisfamily.Heissurvivedbyhis wife,Joyceand5children: William,Chris,Lora,Laura(Russ) andMary(Carter);4 grandchildren,Erin(Mike), Melissa(Kris),Alex,andSarah;3great-grandchildren, Ben,Molly,andWillow.

Nellie L. Narramore

Sunday, April 1, 2018 at the Jolly

RickyRayWalker

RickyWalkerwasanamazingperson whowouldgooutofhiswaytohelp anyonewithoutquestionregardless ofyourbackgroundorsituation.Heis survivedbyhiswifeAngelicaWalker; motherBrendaMcbeath;and brothersAndyWalker,KevinWalker andMatthewTijerina.

Hewasalovinguncle,whotreated hisniecesandnephewsasifthey werehisown.Hewasthefriendyou couldalwayscountontofillyourheartwiththejoyofa goodlaugh.Hewillforeverbemissed.

WillardJoeHarnden

twin brother of Sara. He was a proud

s t u d e n t o f W e s t V i e w H i g h S c h o o l , ated in the Special Olympics and Best Buddies programs and loved attending football and bask e t b a l l g a m e s D e r e k

s w i m m i n g a n d m o s t r e c e n t l y , e n j o y e d s i t - s k i i n g w i t h Arizona Disabled Sports at Flagstaff His faithful servic e d o g , D o r y , w a s w i t h h i m a s h e p a s s e d p e a c e f u l l y

r o u n d e d b

D

things with his family and friends, who were often heard to ask, “why not”? Derek is survived by his parents, twin sister Sara, grandparents Jack & Sandy Swanson and John & Polly Jackson, as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Messinger Indian School Mortuary The Memorial Service will be h e

A

Church in Goodyear. In lieu of flowers, please consider d o n a t i o n

Canine Companions for Independence - Southwest Re-

aughters Dolores (Paul) Watson,

Linda (Ed) Gant; eleven grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, and nineteen great-great-grandchildren

Visitation will be at Ganley's Funeral Home in Buckeye, Friday April 6th from 5 to 7p.m.

A memorial will be celebrated at 10:30 a m on April 7,

WillardJoeHarnden,age89of GoodyearpassedawayonMarch 30,2018.HewasborninMedicine Lodge,KSin1928.

AftergraduatingfromMedicine LodgeHighSchoolin1946,Bill enlistedintheUSMarineCorpsat theageofseventeen.PrivateFirst ClassWJHarnden'sfirstassignment waswiththefamousBlackSheep fightersquadronVMF-214asan aircraftsupportandmaintenancepersonnel.Stationed atElToroMarineCorpsAirStationinOrangeCounty, California,Bill'ssquadronwasalsoassignedtosea operationswiththeescortaircraftcarrierUSSRendova. BillenjoyedhisadventuresonthePacificOcean.

Billissurvivedbyhiswifeof49years,Ann;threesons, WillardJoe,Jr.,Jeffery,andEric;eightgrandchildrenand ninegreat-grandchildren.

ConstanceM.Paulson

SheenteredthisworldonNew Year'sEve,1945andleftitonEaster Sunday,April1,2018.Constance "Connie"Paulsonwasbornin Minneapolis,Minnesotabutspent herchildhoodandearlyadultlifein Barron,Wisconsin.

Connieissurvivedbyher husband,GlennIshibashi;mother, CharlotteWintrone,94;sisters, Gloria(Mark)Dobberfuhland CindyLaPoint;andbrothersBob(Bonnie)Paulsonand Tom(Laurie)Paulson.HerstepkidsareMidoriIshibashi WallandKimiIshibashi(Tim)Baker.Hergrandchildren areZoey,Ainsley,andEmerie. Condolencesforthefamilymaybeleftat www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

AservicewithmilitaryhonorswasheldApril9,2018at theNationalMemorialCemeteryofArizona,Phoenix. ThefamilysuggestsdonationsbemadetotheHospice oftheWest,21410N.19thAve.,Ste.100,Phoenix,AZ 85027.Condolencesforthefamilymaybeleftat www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com.

ley, Idaho and soon moved to Baker, Oregon where sh

began her schooling. She was an eager student earning

cept for the very last day when he came

with

very active in sports, playing softball and being a cheerleader Later in life, she enjoyed putting the men in their place on the golf course and in the bowling allies. S

children: Jim and Sharron Orlin, however, answered the

turned to Baker where he began a career as a successfu l meat cutter This was to be a family proposition as both ,

Looking for greener pastures, they moved to Medford, O

five years later The business continues, however, unde r the tutelage of the

values set by Mom and Dad . Private services have been prepared by the family.

Norma Cartwright

Classifieds

-FOR SALE

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

CAREGIVERS

WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATES WANTED

CAPSTONE LOGISTICS

19 years of age to apply.

HIRING a CDL class B DRIVER Full service septic pumping and installation company CDL Class B req'd Salary depending on exp 623-386-4112

Farm Workers and laborers sought by Mixtepec Farming in Santa Maria, CA 45 hrs/wk Pay $13 18 #Openings: 7 Temp Positions 05/01/2018-10/31/2018 assist with cultivating & harvesting squash, green beans, pasilla chile, and tomatillo prep crops for shipment, load & unload. Tools, supplies & equip. provided no cost. Housing provided at no cost to workers that cannot reasonably return to perm. residence at end of day. Paid transportation & subsistence to work-site paid no later than 50% of work contract 3/4 of hours of contract guaranteed Apply for this job at your nearest office of the State Workforce Agency (SWA) Job Order 15856945

LEAD CAREGIVERS

Is holding a hiring event on Thursday April 12, 2018 from: 10:00AM - 2:00PM @ the Homewood Suites, 11450 W Hilton Way, Avondale, AZ 85323

1st, 2nd, and 3rd Shift Openings Weekly Pay $420 - $500! Apply online @ www.Capstone.jobs For more info call 770-508-3577

Funeral Chapel

is in need of a part-time Housekeeping and Hospitality Attendant

neral home’ s continuing effort to deliver outstanding

f

n

t h e f o l l o w i n g t a s k s t o t h e h i g h e s t s t a n d a r d s : M a i nt a i n c l e a n l i n e s s o f t h e f u -

n e r a l h o m e i n c l u d i n g , b ut not limited to, cleaning the f a c i l i t y , s t o c k i n g a n d r eplenishing the facility with s u p p l i e s a n d p r o d u c t s , i nc l u d i n g , b u t n o t l i m i t e d t o

c l e a n t

drinking cups, etc. Assist in Hospitality, which includes s e r v i n g c o f f e e , w a t e r , e t c . t o o u r c l

AIRES is looking for caring, capable and compassionate people! Our mission is to help people live happy, healthy & fulfilling lives.

Hiring Caregivers for In Home Care dept (HCBS) & Group Homes in the West Valley **No Exp necessary! Paid training. Must be 21+yrs w/ good driving record & reliable transportation. Apply at www.aires.org or visit us at 2140 W. Greenway Rd, Ste 140, Phoenix.

GARAGE SALES/ BAZAARS

602-758-0865

COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Saturday, April 14th & Sunday 15th 7AM-1PM

Copper Canyon Ranch is having their community-wide garage sale event, many homes participating Peoria Ave between Bullard & Litchfield Look for the signs at the entrances

Crystal Gardens Community Garage Sale, Saturday April 14th and Sunday the 15th from 8 a m to 5 p m Crystal Gardens is located between McDowell and Thomas Roads just west of 107th Avenue in Avondale

Huge Moving Sale!! Sat 4/14 9am-1pm 21707 W Hess Ave Buckeye 85326 Bed, baby items, elliptical, dresser, big TV, night stands, king size mattress, 2 toddler beds, clothes, toys, keyboard and shoes, misc items 623-850-2745

GARAGE SALES/ BAZAARS

Roosevelt Park Community Garage/Yard Sale Sat , April 14, 2018 6am - 2pm 107th Ave & Van Buren Avondale, AZ 85323

Super Huge Garage Sale Saturday 4/14 6:30AM-1pm and Sunday 4/15 7am-12pm 12009 W Yuma St Avondale 85323 119th Ave & Buckeye Rd Kitchen items, clothes, furniture, bedding, office & living room items & misc items. No large bills accepted

Yard Sale Friday 4/13 and Saturday 4/14 8am-4:30 pm. 10919 W. Heatherbrae Dr. Phoenix 85037 Tools, new table and circular saw, and many misc items

HANDYMAN

HANDYMAN -37 years experience Drywall, framing, plumbing, painting, electrical, roofing and more Stan, 602434-6057

MISCELLANEOUS

FOR

SALE

KILL BED BUGS Buy Harris Bed Bug Killers/KIT Complete Treatment System Available: The Home Depot, Homedepot.com, & Hardware Store

BURIAL Plot

Upright marker space, companion plot at Holy Cross Cemetery Info call 520-705-4770

Corner Console Solid Oak Desk For Sale Original Cost $1500 Asking $350 Call 623-536-3407 KILL ROACHES GUARANTEED! Buy Harris Roach Tablets Odorless, Effective, Long Lasting Available: Hardware Stores, The Home Depot, homedepot.com

SCORPIONS!

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