Ahwatukee Foothills News - April 22, 2020

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TROUBLE AT HOME

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HORIZON BLUES

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Wednesday, April 22. 2020

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Director

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oothills Club West Community Association board members have asked a judge to toss a suit that a resident-based nonprofit filed against them.

In a petition filed earlier this month, the HOA board members said that the Club West Conservancy failed to back up its lawsuit with facts supporting its allegations and that it has no standing to sue them in the first place.

The board’s dismissal request is the latest

legal development in litigation related to the battle over the future of the Club West Golf Course, which has been closed since March 2018 and is being eyed by a group of four Ahwatukee investors for the partial development of houses.

The Conservancy’s lawsuit takes aim at the HOA board’s actions that paved the way for the investors to present any plan for it to review and send to Club West’s 2,700 homeowners for a vote.

At issue are the so-called declarant rights governing the golf course and whether the

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board could legally assume their control.

The lawsuit targets a series of papers filed with the County Recorder by former board President Paul Moroz in 2010 and by current President Mike Hinz in October 2018 and last July.

The Conservancy alleges that the board took actions for deciding how the golf course can be used and how changes to that use can be made without any authorization – a claim the dismissal petition denies.

see WEST page 12

COVID pandemic’s ticking timebomb is child abuse

BY CECILIA CHAN AFN Staff Writer

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COACH OF 2020

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@AhwatukeeFN

Club West board seeks dismissal of golf course suit

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@AhwatukeeFN |

Several hundred people showed up at the State Capitol Monday to demand that Gov. Doug Ducey start “opening up Arizona” and lift quarantine and closure directives and the move resonated to some degree in Ahwatukee last week. For details: page 9. (Howard Fischer/Capitol Media Services)(Special to AFN)

omorrow, Gilbert’s iconic Water Tower will light up blue for three days in recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

And a possible fallout of COVID-19 is an uptick in children being abused or neglected as parents lose their jobs and the country remains on lockdown.

“We are anticipating with economic stressors and social stressors there will be increases in child abuse,” said Dr. Shawn Singleton, a pediatrician who works at the Banner Health Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa and Thunder Medical Center in Glendale. “Some areas of the country have seen increases of cases.

The latest breaking news and top local stories in Ahwatukee!

www.ahwatukee.com

see ABUSE page 6

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

The Ahwatukee Foothills News is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Ahwatukee Foothills.

Times Media Group: 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219 Tempe, Arizona, 85282 Main number: 480-898-6500 Advertising: 480-898-5624 Circulation service: 480-898-5641

PUBLISHER Steve T. Strickbine

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ADVERTISING STAFF National Advertising Director Zac Reynolds 480-898-5603 zac@ahwatukee.com

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Circulation Director:

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NEWS STAFF Executive Editor:

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Jim Walsh, 480-898-5639 jwalshe@ahwatukee.com Wayne Schutsky, 480-898-6533 wschutsky@timespublications.com Cecilla Chan. 480-898-5613, cchan@timespublications.com Ahwatukee Foothills News is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, and for subscription information, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@ azintegatedmedia.com.

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Virus fueling rise in violence in homes

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BY KEVIN REAGAN AFN Staff Writer

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ocal law enforcement answered a higher number of calls for domestic disturbances last month after Phoenix East Valley residents were told to stay home in order to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Agencies in Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa reported subtle increases in its number of domestic-related calls over the last few weeks, but some say the data’s not clear enough to conclude whether Arizona’s stayat-home order is to blame.

But Phoenix police officials are fairly certain that stay-at-home orders have powered an increase.

The Phoenix Police Department dispatched officers to 3,587 domestic violence calls in March – a 5.6 percent increase in officers responding to reports of family fights or aggravated assault of domestic partners compared to the 3,395 incidents reported in March 2019, police said.

“We are seeing an increase in these types of calls, but I think it goes back to what people are living through and trying to cope through, many people aren’t working because of the public health crisis,” Sgt. Mercedes Fortune told the Associated Press.

She said the reports appeared to increase more after Republican Gov. Doug Ducey issued a stay-at-home order on March 31.

Police received 942 domestic violence calls in the first week of April, a 15 percent increase compared to the 820 calls made the same time last year, Fortune said.

Chandler Police officers responded to at least 522 domestic calls for fights, assaults and trespassing in March – a notable jump from the 364 calls received in February.

Last month further appears to be an outlier when comparing it to the call logs of previous years. Chandler Police reported getting 454 domestic-related calls in March 2019 and 438 calls in March 2018.

It’s the same trend observed elsewhere across the country as police departments see a rise in calls for domestic violence after Americans were instructed to stay home indefinitely until the health pandemic ends.

Sgt. Jason McClimans emphasized that Chandler’s call numbers don’t necessarily mean an act of domestic violence was actually committed – but rather that someone had initially reported a possible disturbance.

The agency’s online arrest log indicates March 2020 didn’t show an exponentially higher number of arrests for domestic-related crimes compared to February or January.

A closer snapshot of the agency’s data demonstrates

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

DOMESTIC from page 3

how Chandler cops have remained busy responding to domestic disputes during the statewide shutdown.

At 10:30 a.m. on April 4, Chandler Police arrested a 34-year-old woman for criminal damage and fighting at a residence on Kingbird Drive.

Four hours later, a 32-year-old man was charged with violating an order of protection a few miles away on California Street.

Chandler Police then detained a 38-year-old man for fighting on Folley Street at 7:30 p.m. Less than an hour later, a 29-year-old man was arrested for assault at an apartment complex on Federal Street.

At least two more men would be cited for domestic violence charges by the end of the night.

The agency’s arrest logs show officers make arrests for domestic crimes on a nearly daily basis – long before the COVID-19 pandemic forced families to stay indoors.

But April 4 stands out as a day that appeared to be particularly active.

The extra calls for domestic disturbances have not forced Chandler Police to reshuffle resources among the agency’s units, McClimans added.

Its Family Advocacy Center, where victims of sex crimes and child abuse often go to report crimes, has not experienced a significant uptick in victims seeking refuge from abusive relatives.

But some advocates worry this period may only be the calm before the storm and believe more victims may suddenly reach out for help once the pandemic starts to subside.

Tasha Menaker, co-chief executive officer of the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, said her nonprofit’s hotline has recently seen a 15-percent increase in calls from victims wanting to file restraining orders, find a shelter or ask for legal advice.

The pandemic could be trapping even more victims from not reaching out for help, Menaker said, because their abuser is always around and they may not feel safe calling the coalition’s hotline.

“It might feel very dangerous to try and

A New Leaf staffer Kimberly Hubbard talks to a domestic violence victim seeking help at one of the Mesa organization’s shelters. Police and advocates say data so far has been sketchy on whether the pandemic has driven up domestic violence, though they fear many victims may be trapped. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

look at other options outside of leaving the home,” Menaker said, “but maybe as things settle down a little bit. We’re kind of worried we might see a spike at that time as people then try to exit the home.”

Before the public health crisis, domestic violence shelters in the East Valley were already having trouble placing clients in apartments they could afford on their own.

Rising rents across the Valley has made cheap rentals increasingly sparse and has been creating another barrier for victims to not leave their abuser.

“That’s a significant reason why survivors don’t leave,” Menaker added. “They just don’t have any place to go.”

Menaker’s coalition has some funding available to help survivors pay the first month’s rent on a new apartment, but those funds are becoming an increasingly finite resource since the nonprofit’s had to postpone all its fundraising events until after the pandemic ends.

Most domestic violence shelters across the Valley continue to remain open, but some say the ongoing pandemic hasn’t curbed the constant need for available beds.

My Sister’s Place, a domestic violence

shelter located near Chandler, is regularly at its capacity and demand for the shelter’s beds hasn’t slowed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jean Christofferson, a spokesperson for the shelter, said its help hotline has been getting more calls in recent weeks as its staff continue trying to serve the clients they already have.

A New Leaf, which operates a domestic violence shelter near Mesa, has also seen more clients reaching out for assistance during the last few weeks.

The shelter operates a temporary overflow program that attempts to place clients in alternative housing or hotels when its shelter is out of rooms.

The number of clients seeking assistance from the overflow program is 30 percent higher than this same time last year, according to New Leaf spokesman Tanner Swanson.

This sudden growth in demand is “shocking,” Swanson added, and New Leaf’s caseworkers are concerned that clients stuck in dangerous relationships aren’t getting the help they need.

Other police departments in the East Valley have noticed some changes in the number of domestic disturbances re-

ported in recent weeks, but nothing that’s alarmed agencies of a potential crisis that’s the result of COVID-19’s movement restrictions.

The Scottsdale Police Department reported at least 30 domestic-related incidents between March 19 and April 13, according to an online database.

That number is more than what was reported during the same time frame in 2019 but less than in 2018.

Officer Kevin Watts, a spokesman for the agency, said Scottsdale has not seen enough data to conclude there’s been any recent crime trends that can be tied to COVID-19.

Thirty-eight more incidents of domestic violence have so far been reported to Gilbert Police this year compared to 2019.

The town was already observing slightly higher numbers before the pandemic started to hit in early March and that trend’s been continuing into April.

Though the Mesa Police Department saw a small increase in the number of family fight calls last month, the agency claims the uptick is not enough to suggest it’s related to stay-at-home directives.

Mesa Police got about 80 more calls for domestic fights in March than it received in February. But Detective Nik Rasheta said the extra calls were not beyond what Mesa’s experienced in the past.

In May 2019, Mesa Police received about the same level of fight calls per day as what the agency experienced in March 2020.

Mesa’s Victim Services Unit had fewer in-person contacts with residents between March 16 and April 12, but the number of people contacting the unit by phone increased substantially during that time frame.

And yet the number of new domestic violence cases assigned to Mesa’s detectives has been dropping since mid-February.

It appears Mesa’s not yet gone outside the regular ebbs and flows it sees throughout the year, Rasheta added, but the agency’s keeping an eye on the data to spot any troubling trends that may be happening due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Information on resources for victims of domestic violence can be found at acesdv.org.

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

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

vestigated, according to CaABUSE from page 1 leb Kimpel, spokesman for “Right now, we have not had any cases Scottsdale-based Childhelp, of child abuse in our centers, which is a a nonprofit that helps childgood thing.” abuse victims.

Singleton surmised that may be because Kimpel said DCS identithe weather is still nice, allowing people fied 15,446 victims in 2018, to be outdoors to walk, bike or hike. ranking Arizona No. 24 in But if social isolation remains in place the country and tied with as the Valley heats up, that may change.

Colorado, Louisiana and “If we are unable to be outside to work Florida. off some of the energy and to just have “There were nine victims some fun, perhaps we may see our spike if of abuse or neglect for every we are still required to do social isolation 1,000 children,” Kimpel said. and quarantine,” Singleton said.

“The rate has actually gone Another factor is that schools are closed up in the last few years. But – but not in a good way.

I would caution against takTeachers and other school personnel ing the maltreatment rate as often see signs of child abuse, and calls to necessarily indicating an inthe state child abuse hotline have dropped Childhelp volunteers make little gifts for abused children to remind them crease in abuse. It could just they are not alone. (Special to AFN) since Gov. Doug Ducey closed schools for as easily indicate more effecthe rest of the academic year, according to in silence.” tive investigations and more reports. In DCS cannot investigate child abuse and the early-mid 2000s DCS reported rates Darren DaRonco, spokesman for the Deneglect Luxurity receives partment of Child Safety. ugs ~ unless Vinyl ~ a report from as low as 2 per 1,000 children.” rea Rthe A25 Coun m public. o “On average, we are seeinguan over Also in 2018, the latest available data st tert C our ~ s r Education personnel are responsible e percent decrease in calls to hotline showed the department investigated ops how ood ~ Lasince ate ~ Sclosed,” minschools he said. “Teachers for making 20 percent of investigated 87,498 cases in Arizona – tying with and school personnel comprise one of reports, and law enforcement person- Iowa, New Mexico and New York at 53 inthe largest groups to report child abuse. nel, including school resource officers vestigations per 1,000 children, accordpercent of reports that get in- ing to Kimpel.

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“That rate has been consistently increasing over the years,” he added.

During the Great Recession, data on child abuse was mixed, according to the Pew Research Center – but “hospitals reported an increase in injuries consistent with abuse, including an increase in the number of reported brain and head traumas.”

Kimpel said a number of studies suggest economic downturn is associated with increased child maltreatment.

“While no child is free from risk of child maltreatment, at-risk children and children in poverty are substantially more vulnerable,” Kimpel said, noting: “Economic downturns create stress for parents and conflict within families. Basic needs like housing, food and medical care are more difficult to secure in some families.”

He added with the widespread financial crisis, supportive structures like schools and social services are threatened by tighter budgets.

Several factors make it especially dangerous for children in the pandemic’s wake, Kimpel said.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

ABUSE from page 6

“Most perpetrators of maltreatment are parents of the victim,” he said. “In Arizona, more than 90 percent of child maltreatment perpetrators identified by the Department of Child Safety are the parent, guardian or partner of a parent to the victim. If a survivor of abuse is at home with his or her parents, that child faces that much more risk.”

Kimpel said an adequate social support is vital in preventing abuse and neglect but when parents lose touch with their network of care – like churches, workplaces and families – the risk of abuse increases.

“It is likely that for every child who has been identified as a victim of abuse, another child will have been abused without the knowledge of authorities,” Kimpel said.

So not only are abused children out of school, away from watchful eyes, but they

Geowts?

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are isolated with their abusers.

“That means it is likely there will be fewer cases reported and acted upon by the Department of Child Safety, but more abuse and neglect actually occurring in households,” Kimpel said; “the worse of both worlds.”

Singleton said there is a concern of increased cases of corporal punishment that do not require medical care.

“Our primary care physicians and urgent care also are aware of these red flags,” he said. “They are aware to bring these children in when they may have a concern during a telehealth visit.”

Use of remote medical visits has grown tremendously during the pandemic but the tool has its drawbacks.

“It makes it hard to assess certain injuries,” Singleton said. “It’s very dependent on a family’s computer and their camera, it could be dependent on the screen resolution on the provider’s end.

“It’s not always easy to evaluate bruises

and injuries on skin so primary care providers will try to have those patients seen so they can be in the same room as the child,” Singleton said. “We are hoping that providers with any level of concern will get that child in to see them in person.”

Both Singleton and Kimpel said families can take steps to prevent the abuse or neglect of a child.

“There are ways we can support our friends and family,” said Singleton who suggested people do virtual checkins with each other during this highstressed time.

He said people who are not sick can “go over and help play with the kids and give caregivers a chance to go shopping, a moment of kid-free time.”

There’s also a number of children activities online such as at Sesamestreet.org and coronavirus resources and tips for families at Prevent Child Abuse America, Singleton said.

Families in crisis can call 211, a non-

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emergency line in many communities that provides appropriate resources, according to Kimpel.

For parents who are in recovery from alcohol or substance abuse or in treatment for mental health, it is vitally important that they continue to engage in therapeutic interventions that have been helpful before COVID-19, he said.

And “for parents who find strength in faith, it is important to stay engaged in faith practices and community, even if they can’t physically go to church or synagogue,” Kimpel said. “If children have been involved in sports or activities that encourage them to be active and do their best, stay involved in whatever capacity is possible.

“The best resource to prevent child maltreatment are the ones that will be used,” Kimpel add. “What I mean by that is that every family is different and has different strengths and priorities. Likewise, every family faces different challenges.”

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Debate over virus closures echoes in Ahwatukee

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

W

ith unemployment in Arizona reaching a level that one economist called “shockingly high” the battle over whether it’s time to reopen businesses has reached Ahwatukee – at least on social media.

Ahwatukee residents Councilman Sal DiCiccio and Scott Weinberg, who has filed a statement of interest in running for Kyrene Governing Board, chided closures in unrelated Twitter postings.

Meanwhile, Jim Welch, executive director of the Mountain Park Ranch Homeowners Association, disputed an AFN report that a resident said the HOA tennis courts were crowded.

Welch told AFN, “I took a lot of heat” when he closed the HOA’s recreational facilities, some before any official closures were announced by the governor or Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

“I was only being proactive and considering the health and safety of our HOA, so I had closed our amenities even prior

to when we had to close them by law,” he said.

Welch said the HOA closed pools and limited access to other facilities on March 18 and that 12 days later, playgrounds and tennis courts were closed. A week later, volleyball and basketball courts were closed.

That’s not the case at Pecos Park, where at least pickleball and tennis courts remain open.

The state Department of Health Services’ latest report on confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ahwatukee showed little change in the week since it began reporting cases by ZIP code.

The latest report showed that Ahwatukee’s three ZIP codes recorded a combined total of 48 to 52 cases. The 85045 ZIP had “6 to 10,” according to the report, while 85044 had 16 and 85048 had 26.

Health Director Cara Christ has cautioned that the ZIP code data should not be interpreted as showing where it is safer and that the ZIPs are pulled from reports where the department receives from lab reports.

As Arizona recorded 95,382 new unemployment claims last week – down from 132,382 the week before – Chad Stone, chief economist at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, called the new number “shockingly high” and predicted claims will rise even higher.

“This is extraordinary in our history, this rapid surge in employment, joblessness and it is going to continue for a while longer for sure,” Stone said. “When we start to go back to work it (unemployment) will come down, but it will remain high because the economy is not going to instantly snap back.”

As the pandemic’s economic toll mounts, so too have protests and demands that businesses closed as “non-essential” be allowed to reopen and that social distancing guidelines be eased.

Mayor Kate Gallego waded into the argument with a press release late last week in which she said: “The pull to reopen our economy in a post-COVID world is understandably strong. I, too, want to help our business community and return to some semblance

of normalcy. However, any restart needs to be led by the advice of medical professionals.

“Restarting the economy too soon is perhaps more disastrous than waiting—it is not a switch to be turned on and off. Yesterday, the White House released guidelines for reopening the economy, including gateway criteria laying out a tiered approach. I support these criteria and believe they should be followed in Arizona.”

She followed up with a series of posts on Twitter that repeated those remarks and one added, “Currently, Arizona is not meeting the criteria to proceed with a May 1 reopening. In order for us to meet these metrics we need more widespread testing, including asymptomatic individuals, and a more robust contact-tracing program.”

Gallego’s position drew a rebuke from DiCiccio.

Although he did not named Gallego, DiCiccio posted, “Our economy needs to open, politicians pushing complete lockdown are individuals who never had a real

see VIRUS page 10

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job. Notice politicians continuing to get paychecks are pushing lockdown.

“People with families to feed want to get back to work. If the politicians really cared about the public, they would give up their paychecks at the same time they expect others to give up theirs.”

After President Trump released his three-phased plan for reopening the economy, Capitol Media Services asked Gov. Doug Ducey’s office for reaction.

Press aide Patrick Ptak replied by citing Ducey’s April 14 press conference.

In that appearance, Ducey said he, not Trump, will decide when to reopen the economy.

He is still using May 1 as a target date to start removing restrictions he has placed on both what businesses can operate and personal movement of Arizonans.

“It’s too early right now for me to say there’s something magical about May 1,’’ the governor said Tuesday. “Of course, I’m hopeful. I want to be aspirational on this.’’

But Ducey said any decisions he makes about the April 30 expiration of his orders will be based on what he thinks is appropriate for Arizona.

“If those need to be extended, we’ll extend them,’’ he said. “If they can be changed, they’ll be changed.’’

Ptak last Friday reiterated his boss’ statements, saying Ducey had participated in a governors-only call with the Presi-

dent, Vice President Mike Pence, Dr. Anthony Fauci and Dr. Deborah Birx in which they laid out the new guidelines.

“These guidelines are comprehensive, thoughtful and provide a good blueprint for states,” Ptak said. “As the governor consults with Dr. Cara Christ, tracks the data, and listens to business leaders, these federal guidelines will help him make important decisions in the days and weeks ahead.”

Meanwhile, Weinberg derided social distancing and seemed to be rapping Sen. Martha McSally in one of two Twitter posts last Saturday.

“I’m having trouble working out at my gym because it has been SHUT DOWN for a month,” he wrote. “Why don’t you do something useful besides photo ops and pushing government handouts?”

Directly beneath that he posted a Twitter message from McSally that referred to her answers to questions about COVID-19 that she frequently hears.

Prior to that Twitter post, Weinberg said he would be flouting social distancing altogether.

“I will be attending a private gathering today of more than 10 people that I have not seen for over a month,” he wrote. “I am not wearing a mask. I am not wearing gloves. I will not stay 6 feet away. I will hug and shake hands. I will talk, laugh, eat and drink. I will live without fear.”

Cronkite News and Capitol Media Services contributed to this report.

Hospitals look to government to shore up their finances

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

G

ov. Doug Ducey is looking to restore the ability of financially struggling Arizona hospitals to once again do elective surgeries.

The governor said last week he issued the directive last month to ensure that there is an adequate supply of personal protective equipment to handle what is expected to be a surge in the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19.

That peak is not expected until the end of this month and possibly into May. But in the meantime, Holly Ward, spokeswoman for the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association, said her

members are hemorrhaging money because they’ve lost that business. And she said that there needs to be financial relief -- and soon -- to keep the doors open.

Arizona hospitals are facing “dire financial consequences” and furloughing staff, as cutbacks meant to prepare for COVID-19 cases have instead cost them as much as $575 million a month, about 3040 percent of normal revenues statewide.

The cancellation of elective procedures meant to free up beds for potential coronavirus patients, combined with a drop in emergency room visits, has deprived hospitals of the “cash cows” they need to stay afloat in an industry that otherwise has

see HOSPITALS page 14

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WEST from page 1

The board’s actions were neither valid nor legal, the Conservancy alleges, and should be declared “void and unenforceable.”

It also asks the court to rule that the HOA board “may not act as a declarant” of the rights governing the use of the golf course.

The board last December told homeowners that after it reviewed The Edge Team’s proposal, it would decide whether to submit it for approval by homeowners.

It also spelled out how that vote would be held and how it would be validated, indicating that the Edge Team might need as few as about 400 homeowners to approve its plan.

Conservancy President Matt Tyler told AFN earlier this year that the board had no authority to do that and that even its assumption of the rights to control the golf course were subject to the master CC&Rs under which the HOA operates.

The lawsuit claims the entire community would have to first vote on the HOA’s assumption of the course’s declarant rights – and that would have to be approved by 75 percent of all Club West homeowners.

The board’s petition to the court states the Conservancy “opposes any sale of the golf course that involves any creative solution which shrinks the current size of the golf course and expands the residential footprint of” the Club West HOA and “its existing homes and homeowners.”

“Rather than attempting to resolve this issue with the City of Phoenix through the channels of entitlements and zoning, (the

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

provided any evidence” to back up that claim.

The petition also says the Conservancy “has pled no particular damage to itself as a party:” and instead “asserts “injury to the Defendant Association as a whole.”

Even if the Conservancy’s allegations were true, Club West Golf Course has been closed since February 2018 and the Conservancy wants the petition states, it to be restored for play or turned into a preserve. (Tom Sanfilippo/Inside Out Aerial) the nonprofit “alConservancy) has turned to litigation in leges no injury to itself and does not estabthe belief that suing the Association will lish a legal relationship with the Association result in its desired outcome,” the petition that shows it is entitled to any relief.” states.

The board’s petition also says the ConThe board attacks the Conservancy’s servancy hasn’t included “all necessary suit on several grounds – including an parties” as defendants – namely, course assertion that even though its members owner Wilson Gee. are residents, the nonprofit itself has no “The current owner of the golf course standing to sue it. has a vested interest in the outcome of “To have standing,” the suit argues, “a this lawsuit and must be joined as a party plaintiff must plead damage from an in- to protect his/her/its interest in the golf jury particular to him or at least more course property,” the petition states. substantial than that suffered by the comIt argues that by not including Gee, any munity at large.” ruling by the court “would injure the curThe Conservancy, it says, “is not a mem- rent golf course owner’s rights.” ber of the Association and does not own Gee is hoping to sell the course to the any property in the Association.” four investors, who call themselves The Even if its members are residents, the Edge Team. The deal has been in escrow for petition states, the Conservancy “only months as the investors try to get an agreepurports” that and “has not asserted or ment to build some houses on the course.

Its initial effort ran into enough opposition from homeowners that Taylor Morrison backed out of its deal with the Edge Team to build 164 single- and two-story houses on portions of the course.

The investors said that with the money they would get from Taylor Morrison – an amount never disclosed – they would build a shorter 18-hole course, a new clubhouse and an 18-hole putting course.

The petition charges that the Conservancy’s is legally barred from challenging the association’s past acts – including the assumption of declarant rights governing the course’s use.

“Plaintiff is not seeking to enjoin future conduct of the association in this case,” it states. “Rather, plaintiff seeks to invalidate actions of the Association that have already taken place. Thus, plaintiff lacks standing to engage in a proceeding to challenge the association’s power to act.”

Court records show no hearing scheduled in the case and it is unknown when one might be held.

Social distancing guidelines have slowed down most civil proceedings from their normal pace.

Meanwhile, those same guidelines also have slowed down the Edge Team’s efforts to resolve either the course purchase or action on some new housing plan.

The Club West HOA board has not met since the Edge Team pulled its initial plan and was unable to hold a meeting for homeowners to see its new proposal.

Any plan for houses would require a vote by homeowners.

Local lawyers name 2 more eateries for their deal AFN NEWS STAFF

A

hwatukee attorneys Mark and Alexis Breyer, who bill themselves as the Husband and Wife Law Team, have selected two more restaurants where they’ll pick up half the tab for every takeout order.

Tomorrow, April 23, they will pick up half the tab for orders at Kimmy’z Tatum Point, 4601 E. Bell Road, Phoenix (602-795-3205).

On Saturday, April 25, people who order takeout from IL Bosco Pizza, 7120 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale (480-3358680) can expect the Breyers to pay

half that tab.

The Breyers have stepped up to help restaurants, which have been slammed by social distancing regulations in the wake of COVID-19.

They have launched the HWLT (Husband and Wife Law Team) HEART (Helping Excellent Arizona Restaurants Today) campaign.

“We know so many are struggling during this challenging time,” the couple said in a release. “Among many, the fantastic restaurant workers and owners are hit very hard. We are going to pull together and do our small part to help.”

The Breyers are prepared to spend up to $2,000 on any selected day help both struggling restaurants and probably more than a few patrons who have suffered financial setbacks caused by business closures and other economic fallout from the pandemic.

People can nominate a restaurant at breyerlaw.com/heart.

“We will work with the restaurant and our social media to get the word out that there will be a 50 percent off all orders to drive a lot of extra business and help keep the restaurant running.”

The Breyers plan to continue their campaign as long as restaurant remain

closed by the virus crisis.

“Being a part of this community is important to both our family and our team at work,” they said. “So many people are struggling right now and we wanted to find a way we could have an immediate, positive impact for some of the people hit the hardest.

“We put this program together hoping it would help make ends meet for many different restaurants and their employees. Watching the community rally around this program and start nominating and helping different restaurants has been even better than we could have hoped when we started it.”

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

Gun sales soaring throughout the Arizona

BY JESSICA MYERS Cronkite News

A

rizona processed a record 82,771 background checks on wouldbe gun buyers in March, as fears of the coronavirus drove people to gun shops in what one shop owner called “panic time.”

It was twice as high as any March in the state since FBI background checks began in 1998 and almost one-quarter of the total sales in Arizona for all of 2019, according to NICS Firearm Checks data, which showed a doubling of background checks from February.

Gun shop owners said the only thing that has slowed down sales is a lack of inventory after March’s surge.

“People have just started panic buying at an insane rate,” said Wayne Semenko, owner of SnG Tactical in Tucson. “People that have never bought before are in here buying.”

The surge in Arizona gun sales was reflected nationally, with background checks in March exceeding 3.7 million, the most ever for one month and more than 1 million more than the 2.6 million checks in March 2019.

HOSPITALS from page 10

margins of only 3-4 percent, advocates said.

The result is health care centers in financial distress are at risk of closing or reducing staff, said Dr. Daniel Derksen, director of the Arizona Center for Rural Health at the University of Arizona.

“If you don’t have the revenues to support paying your nurses and physicians and staff and transport, lab, imaging, Xrays, those types of things, it creates just an untenable situation,” Derksen said.

Advocates said Congress included $30 billion for hospitals when it passed the $2 trillion Coronavirus, Aid, Relief and Economic Security, or CARES Act, last month.

Arizona hospitals have already seen $220 million in assistance from the bill.

Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association President Ann-Marie Alameddin said the money helps – some – but she called it “insufficient” at a time when state hospitals are seeing losses twice that amount every month.

Ducey said he understands the problem.

Gun shows like this are postponed for now but that Arizonans from buying firearms. (Special to AFN)

Semenko and other gun shop owners blamed the increase, especially for firsttime gun buyers, on fears that police agency ranks might be thinned by coronavirus infections as well as worries that gun shops might shut down along with other businesses.

There’s no danger of that for now in Arizona, where Gov. Doug Ducey declared gun shops an “essential service” in his March 23 executive order that shut down many other nonessential businesses.

Ducey’s decision was praised last month by the National Rifle Association, which calls the COVID-19 outbreak is a threat to the Second Amendment.

“We’ve been working for the past 45 days to make sure we’ve got appropriate hospital capacity, ICU beds, personal protective equipment, ventilators, etc.’’ he told Capitol Media Services. And that, the governor said, required a halt to elective surgeries.

“If we’re in a position where we’ve got enough supply that we have available inventory and we have product on the way as well, I am open-minded to resuming elective surgery,’’ he said.

But when it occurs, it won’t be all at once.

“I would think this would be something where we would start with our rural hospitals first, and then, over a period of time, we would extend it into the urban core,’’ Ducey said. “It would be as soon as I have data that gives me the confidence to make a decision.’’

Ward said loosening the restrictions on elective procedures, like knee surgeries and hip replacements, she said, will help.

“We aren’t suggesting that elective surgeries are the be-all, end-all,’’ she said.

Ward said that hospitals are just seeing

But Everytown for Gun Safety, an anti-gun violence movement, said it is the NRA that is exploiting the pandemic to drive gun sales by “fear mongering.”

“The NRA’s suggestion that Americans should stockpile firearms during this pandemic is rooted in the organization’s desire to line the pockets of hasn’t stopped gun manufacturers,” the group said in a statement.

“More guns don’t mean more safety: If more guns made Americans safe, then we’d be the safest nation in the world – but America’s homicide rate is 25 times higher than that of other high-income countries.”

Mark Healy, who owns Healy – America’s Firearm Provider, a large-volume dealer in Tempe, said he takes the responsibilities of gun ownership seriously.

During last month’s rush, he said, he handed out as many cards for gun training to people who were “unprepared for gun ownership” as he did applications for gun purchase.

Healy said cheaper handguns – any-

fewer patients overall, including in emergency rooms.

The cause appears to be another of Ducey’s edict: his directive to Arizonans to remain at home.

“People are staying home,’’ Ward said.

“They’re not having car accidents like they used to -- to go into the hospital. It’s not that day-in, day-out traffic that we would normally see.’’

That complaint held no water with the governor.

“You want me to apologize for people not getting into car accidents?’’ he asked.

The governor last week provided some in the form of an additional $5.3 million in supplemental payments to “critical access hospitals,’’ those in rural areas located more than a 35-mile drive from any other hospital. And the state is advancing $50 million to hospitals in advance of Medicaid payments, essentially fronting them money for services they have yet to provide.

The governor last month directed hospitals to find another 13,000 beds by the

thing below $400 – “went right away” and were extremely popular. He also said shoppers were buying more ammunition than they normally would and his store quickly ran out of popular items.

Healy said he does not have enough 9mm and basic-range ammo because it got “hoarded right away.”

He has enough stock to supply someone who just bought a gun but will not sell ammunition alone. While things have slowed down recently, he said he still has enough stock to supply most buyers.

“We’re still out of some things right now, but for anybody walking in right now looking for a handgun or long gun, we can certainly supply that,” Healy said.

Semenko also said ammunition is in high demand.

He said there is still a constant flow of customers coming in to get “what they need.”

“People are worried about other people, they want to be able to defend their possessions and their families,” Semenko said. “They don’t know what to expect.

They see what happens in the grocery stores when things get a little bit low and they don’t want to be at the mercy of those people.”

end of this month on top of the 15,000 they already have. He also is working to reopen the closed St. Luke’s Hospital in Phoenix.

But Holly Poynter of the Arizona Department of Health Services says there are indications that the worst it yet to come.

She noted that Healthdata.org, which produces models for states and countries, predicts Arizona hitting its peak hospital need on April 30. Yet other models, Poynter said, have the peak further into May. “Worst case scenario models are still predicting up to 13,000 (additional) hospital beds may be needed,’’ she said.

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

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

Vehicle accidents, insurance premiums dropping

BY MACKINLEY LUTES-ADLHOCH Cronkite News

W

hile social distancing and staying at home may be driving you up the wall, it could also be driving down your auto insurance premiums.

With fewer cars on the roads, auto insurance claims have dropped 80-90 percent in major cities and 60 percent in rural areas within the last month, according to the Consumer Federation of America.

As a result, it said, companies holding more than 80 percent of car insurance policies in the county are pledging rebates, credits or direct payments to their customers.

But not all the relief is equal, advocates say, and some consumers may have to fight for the benefit.

“Arizonans should be aware that insurance companies are beginning to recognize that a decrease in driving relates to a decrease in risk exposure, and are assessing what that means for the premiums of

their customers,” said Diane Brown, executive director of Arizona Public Interest Research Group.

Brown encouraged drivers to check with their insurance agents to see if any refunds are being offered.

If not, she said, customers should urge the insurance company to offer a pandemic-related refund or should think about taking their business elsewhere.

But many insurers have already stepped up.

Customers “are driving less and experiencing fewer claims. Because of these results, they deserve premium relief,” said Telisa Yancy, chief operating officer of American Family Insurance.

CFA Director of Insurance Robert Hunter said in a conference call last week that with claims dropping, continuing to charge policy holders the same premiums when they are no longer driving to work and school every day would be overcharging them.

The CFA urged auto insurance companies in March to provide immediate relief

to customers and this week released a report card grading companies on their responses to the pandemic.

Companies were graded on the amount of relief they are providing, the timeframe in which the relief applies and the method in which it is being delivered.

American Family, which said that it will provide $10 million in relief to Arizona drivers, got an A on the CFA report card.

One-time checks for $50 per vehicle insured will be sent within the next few weeks, which averages to be $100 per household, the American Family statement said.

State Farm, which insures about 17 percent of drivers in Arizona, received an A for giving customers a 25 percent credit for premiums owed between March 20 and May 31, or about $20 per month per vehicle insured, said a State Farm spokesperson.

No other insurance company graded by the CFA received an A. Grades for other firms ranged from a B for Allstate, to a C+

for both Progressive and Nationwide, and D- for Geico. Requests for comment from those and other companies were not immediately returned.

Birny Birnbaum, executive director of the Center for Economic Justice, said the relief being provided by companies is a good thing, but that it ultimately will not be enough to reflect the drop in claims the companies will see.

Birnbaum encouraged state legislatures to get involved and force more realistic rebates for consumers.

Brown said that while many Arizona residents are looking for ways to save money during the economic tumult of the COVID-19 pandemic, “reviewing insurance policies should be a factor” in their budget decisions.

“Arizonans who have auto insurance policies should check out the website of their insurer to note any changes in their policy or call the local agent to note any potential impacts on what they owe now or in the future,” she said.

“When the concerns over large public gatherings end, and they will end, people are going to be ready to get out, see BROOKELYN GOMEZ their friends and make memories – something Promchella stands for,” said Josh Fink, owner of Nick’s Menswear. He said “the response has been overwhelmingly positive” to his announcement.

“Students feel like they’ve had their year ripped away from them and Promchella provides them some hope and something to look forward to,” Fink told AFN. Fink hasn’t announced a location for the event, but has set a $70 ticket price and a $20 tab for a food truck voucher for the event.

And, it won’t be a version of Woodstock where teens will be showing up in cutoffs and tanktops.

“This is absolutely a prom,” he told AFN. “Dresses and suits or tuxedos/formal dress

code are required.”

Fink also said Promchella is the name of a nonprofit that will turn all proceeds from the event over “to local students and families affected by COVID-19.”

That’s in keeping with the store’s tradition of working with local student councils. Nick’s Menswear has donated over $250,000 over the past five years and holds a place in the Arizona Association of Student Council Hall of Fame.

Promchella is lining up local and national bands, DJs at a pre-party and “hundreds of door prizes and giveaways throughout the night,” according to a release.

“Promchella is the summer camp, house party and music festival for any high school junior or senior,” it added.

To help publicize the event, a dozen seniors from across the Valley put together a video produced by Chandler High film student Trevor Vega.

“These are students across the state who have seen their year come to an end, and these students want to make a change,” said Chandler High senior class President Austin Morrow. “We have a vast variety of kids from all demographics who want to help put on Promchella, from athletes to theater

kids to student council members.”

“Prom is a quintessential high school experience and many students saw JILLIAN LOEPER that slip away this year,” he added. “In an effort to provide students with an amazing, one-ofa-kind event this is an exciting launch and an entirely new approach to what prom is.”

Organizers have partnered with local businesses and even sports teams to plan the event despite the uncertainty of what summer might look like if social distancing regulations continue.

“We are very cognizant of the situation and are following updates from the CDC and government and Promchella will only happen if deemed safe,” Fink said. “We will take whatever measures or precautions necessary to make sure this is approved and safe for all to attend.

Ahwatukee teens helping clothier launch mega-prom AFN NEWS STAFF

O

ver a dozen students, including two from Ahwatukee, are helping a local clothier give new hope to high school juniors and seniors that they may get a prom after all.

Josh Fink, whose native North Dakota family owns Nick’s Menswear, has partnered with an event company on planning “Promchella,” a two-day festival featuring live music, DJs, food from local vendors and even fireworks to climax each night.

An integral part of his effort comprises students, including Brookelyn Gomez of Mountain Pointe High and Jillian Loeper of Desert Vista.

Playing on the name of one of the world’s biggest music festivals – the annual Indio event called Coachella – the event has caught on like wildfire on social media, with more than 7,500 students already following developments on Instagram.

Seniors across Arizona lost out on proms after schools were shut down and Fink said his family-owned business came up with the idea “so juniors and seniors from all over the state can have a chance to make memories together.”

see PROM page 18

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

Judge nixes online signatures for initiatives’ petitions

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

A

federal judge last week tossed out a bid to allow initiative organizers to get the signatures they need through an online portal.

“It is undeniable that the COVID-19 pandemic is currently wreaking havoc on initiative committees’ ability to gather signatures,’’ wrote Judge Dominic Lanza.

Lanza rejected the argument by attorney Jim Barton that the outbreak effectively makes it impossible for the groups to gather the signatures they need by the July 2 deadline using the traditional faceto-face methods.

Lanza noted that some groups hoping to qualify for the Nov. 3 ballot actually already gathered enough names before the pandemic took hold.

And the judge also accepted arguments by attorneys for the state that it may be that any failure to qualify is at least partly the fault of organizers.

He said that the two committees suing in his court didn’t start organizing and gathering signatures until the second half of last year while other groups began organizing right after the 2018 election.

“A reasonably diligent committee could have placed its initiative on the November 2020 ballot despite the (statutory) requirements and the COVID-19 outbreak,’’ the judge wrote.

He said that the claims by challengers “fail to provide any explanation (let alone justification) for why they waited so long to begin organizing and gathering signatures.’’

Lanza said that just because it may be hard to gather signatures now does not mean it will remain that way.

“It is possible that conditions will abate to the point that in-person signature gathering again becomes viable before the July 2020 submission deadline for signatures,’’ the judge wrote.

On the other side of the equation, Lanza accepted arguments by the state that the current process – in-person signatures, witnessed by circulators who then sign sworn affidavits – meets the needs to prevent fraud and promote political speech and civic engagement.

Finally, Lanza made it clear that he was not

comfortable with being asked to effectively rewrite state election laws that have been in place since the early days of statehood.

Friday’s ruling is not the last word.

The challengers in this case can seek review from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

And attorney Roopali Desai, representing the backers of four other initiatives, has a separate pleading before the state Supreme Court. The justices are not expected to rule before April 28.

Central to the fight is the requirement that those proposing changes to state law must get 237,645 valid signatures on petitions by the July 2 deadline to put their issues before voters.

All six of the initiative drives involved in the two lawsuits had been doing that the traditional way until the virus hit.

That resulted not just in reticence of both circulators and voters to approach each other but also a directive by Gov. Doug Ducey for people to stay at home except for essential activities.

The lawsuits both asked for legal authority to use the state’s existing E-Qual system. Already available for political candidates, it allows people who have a valid Arizona driver’s license or identification to “sign’’ petitions with their name, date of birth and identification number.

Barton argued that given the unique situation surrounding COVID-19 the judge should allow petition circulators to use the same system, at least for this year.

Lanza said part of what was causing him heartburn with this request was that the change would require him to do more than direct state officials to ignore a statutory requirement. He said the rules for submitting petitions on paper and circulators attesting to their validity also exists in the Arizona Constitution.

The judge acknowledged arguments by Barton that the E-Qual system could be “substantially compliant’’ with the constitution.

But Lanza pointed out that question may have to be answered by the Arizona Supreme Court in the parallel case. And that, he said, amplifies his concern that this is an issue where federal courts should be

see INITIATIVES page 18

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

EVIT dinged $2.8M for uncertified teachers

BY JIM WALSH AFN Staff Writer

T

he East Valley Institute of Technology will pay a high price for using uncertified instructors teaching unapproved programs during the final three years of former Superintendent Sally Downey’s Administration.

A December 2019 audit by the state Department of Education said EVIT received more than $2.8 million in state aid to which it was not entitled between 2016-18.

EVIT initially appealed the audit’s findings, but the board now has agreed an out-of-court settlement in which the vocational education district will be docked for $1.4 million in future state aid.

The state Department of Education declined comment on the settlement.

The audit followed an investigative report by attorney Susan Segal in February 2019 that sharply criticized Downey’s management style and alleged several possible violations of state law, including the use of uncertified teachers.

Gust Rosenfeld, Segal’s law firm, was hired by the new board in January 2019 to investigate Downey, who was placed on administrative leave. She subsequently resigned.

Because of Segal’s findings, the board had to re-bid a $33 million construction contract that had been awarded in December 2018 under Downey for expansion of its East Mesa campus, said attorney Kevin Koelbel, EVIT’s director of legal services.

A November 2018 board meeting also was not advertised properly to comply with the state Open Meetings Law, so all decisions by the old board at that meeting were declared void and they had to be reconsidered by the present board.

“I think it was the last big thing that was left’’ from Segal’s list of possible violations, Koelbel said of the audit.

PROM from page 16

“In these times of uncertainty, the wellness of guests, staff and partners is the top priority of Promchella organizers.”

INITIATIVE from page 17

loath to tread.

Lanza said the challengers were arguing that the laws on initiative circulators, as

Downey’s support at EVIT eroded after the 2018 election dramatically changed the board’s composition.

For years, Downey had Former EVIT Suiperintendent Sally f u n c t i o n e d Downey resigned under pressure as the largerin 2019. (Special to AFN) than-life face of EVIT, cultivating support from politicians and the business community.

But she had alienated some of her employees, who accused her of an intimidating management style, various board members and EVIT employees said.

The new board eventually negotiated a lucrative buyout of Downey’s contract, capping her 19-year career in April 2019.

The Tribune reported in March 2019 that the Department of Education was auditing EVIT. It quoted a spokesman as saying that preliminary findings revealed as many as 60 instances where teachers were not properly certified, dating back to 2015.

“The District provided programs that were not approved by the ADE Career and Technical Education (CTE) department in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018,’’ according to the audit.

“Furthermore, some district teachers were not certified or were not appropriately certified to teach in fiscal years 2016, 2017 and 2018,’’ the audit said.

Because the district failed to follow state regulations, 221 students were enrolled in an unapproved course; 1,156 students were taught by an uncertified teacher; and 102 students were taught by a teacher who was not certified until after the school year started, according to the audit.

Before the COVID-19 epidemic forced EVIT’s closure, the career education school had 4,259 high school students and 253 adult students.

EVIT serves a number of area school districts, including Cave Creek, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Tempe Union, Chandler Unified, Mesa, Apache Junction, Gilbert Public Schools, Higley Unified, JO Combs and Queen Creek.

The audit and the settlement agreement did not name the non-certified teachers, but Segal’s report State House Speaker Rusty Bowers, R-Mesa, as one of the uncertified teachers.

“Numerous times and for numerous years, at least two district employees (Russell Bowers and Anthony Toscano) who were not certified to teach career and technical education by the Arizona State Board of Education signed these contracts, agreeing that their employment was conditioned upon holding an Arizona Career and Technical Education Certification and endorsements issued by the State Board of Education,’’ Segal wrote.

However, when Bowers signed his contract in September 2018, “he scratched out this clause that said it was conditioned upon having an Arizona Career and Technical Education Certification and endorsements. Instead he wrote in language that stated that the contract was conditioned upon having a ‘Permanent Certification of Substitute Teacher’ rather than ‘Career and Technical Education Certification.’

The Board never approved this change in language,’’ Segal wrote.

Segal wrote that Bowers’ contract labeled him as a teacher, even though Downey said he functioned as a coordinator of welding certificates.

Segal also said she found that Bowers was paid a salary roughly equivalent to that of a certified teacher – $216 daily with a

full contract of $19,496 for AugustDecember 2018. Substitute teachers were normally paid $90 a day.

Koelbel that Dr. Chad Wilson is now the super- said intendent of the East Valley Institute Bowers was of Technology. (Special to AFN) never the teacher of record for any classes at EVIT and acted more as an assistant teacher in large classes.

He said he does not have an accurate list of uncertified teachers covered by the audit.

State law prohibits lawmakers from holding any other government-related job except teacher.

At first, the Department of Education found EVIT owed $5.8 million, but that figure was eventually winnowed down through negotiations to $2.8 million, with the two parties eventually agreeing to split the difference to avoid further legal action, he said.

Attorney Carrie O’Brien, who formerly worked for the Department of Education, represented EVIT in the negotiations, Koelbel said.

He said the agreement calls for EVIT’s state funding to be docked $58,000 per month during a 24-month period until the state is reimbursed for the over-payment of state aid.

EVIT takes the certification issue seriously, he said. Any teacher who was not certified during that time period would need to be certified now to continue their employment. “If they are not certified, they are not here,’’ Koelbel said.

being interpreted by the state, were placing an undue burden on the public’s right to engage in political speech during the pandemic.

But he said it’s not that simple.

“To the extent plaintiffs aren’t currently able to engage in face-to-face interaction with qualified electors, that’s the fault of the COVID-19 pandemic, not the (statutory) requirements,’’ the judge wrote.

GOT NEWS?

Students can keep up to date on developments in plans at promchellaaz.com.

They can also search #PromchellaAZ2020 across social media platforms for the latest details.

And students can also join the planning, Fink said, explaining: “We created a Promchella Prom Committee made up of high school students across Arizona and these students wrote

the script for the video and produced the video and are an integral part of the planning process. If any students would like to be part of the committee please message us @promchellaaz on instagram.”

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

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

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Horizon Honors seniors reflect on their loss W AFN NEWS STAFF

hile seniors at Ahwatukee’s two largest high schools are still hoping commencement will go on as scheduled next month, their 92 counterparts at Horizon Honors Secondary School already know that the pandemic has taken away that rite of passage.

“It is disappointing that all of the festivities for senior year have been canceled – like our graduation commencement, my final choir concert, prom, graduation parties, signing yearbooks and more,” said

MARISELA RIVERA

Aiden Molinar.

Yet, the Ahwatukee teen is philosophical – if somewhat melancholic.

“While it is extremely disappointing,” he said, “it would be irresponsible to not postpone or cancel school and other events involving large social gatherings.

We will forever be remembered as the class that never had a real end to our senior year, with a graduation or a prom.”

Horizon’s website lists a parade of activities that have fallen by the wayside after its campus was closed, though Principal Cynthia Shaheen has told seniors, “I

AIDEN MOLINAR

CAILEIGH BURDETTE

am 100 percent committed to still hosting many of the senior functions and especially graduation, even if it is in July.”

Xin Hwei Lim was deeply involved in planning the prom and other activities as a student council member, but feels more for some of her classmates.

Personally, I am not taking it too hard,” she said. “However, I know that there are a lot of my friends and other seniors that are extremely disappointed, which is what makes me more sad.”

Like other schools, Horizon quickly instituted remote learning for all 12 grades.

JOSEPH ALJETS

While relatively satisfied with it, they are not at all satisfied with what’s missing from their campus experience.

“I think that we have more than enough resources to continue learning with homework assignments online and daily access to video calls with teachers,” said Aiden. “I feel that I am continuing my preparation for college.”

Marisela Rivera said, “Horizon Honors developed a great plan in such a difficult time, and did so very quickly. I think, hon-

XIN HWEI LIM

see HORIZON page 21

KIERAN ANDREW

Esperanza Church helps healthcare workers AFN NEWS STAFF

C

OVID-19 may have walled off people but members of the Esperanza Lutheran Church community aren’t sitting still.

A group of congregants from the Ahwatukee church are providing help and encouragement to healthcare workers at Banner University Medical Center and the Veterans Administration Hospital.

One group is sewing surgical masks for doctors and nurses made from med-

ical-grade fabric that is nearly as effective as the scarce N95 masks. They are also sewing simple cotton masks for healthcare staff.

Another 22 members are preparing homemade lunches for the medical residents and staff at the two facilities.

The mask effort started after Dr. Jayne Peterson, an Ahwatukee resident and associate program director for ambulatory medicine in the internal medicine

see CHURCH page 21

Staff at the Phoenix VA Hospital are delighted to get home-cooked meals from Esperanza Lutheran Church members. (Special to AFN)

REAL ESTATE

Real Estate Guide Pandemic has slowed, not stopped, home price rise

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

T

he lingering scarcity of Valley homes for sale continues to bedevil homebuyers, keeping home values where they’ve been before the pandemicfueled economic meltdown, experts say.

Worse for buyers, prices continue to creep upward, according to the Cromford Report, the leading authority on the Phoenix metro housing market.

“As long as supply remains lower than demand,” it said last week, “there will

be no downward pressure on prices and home values will therefore be sustained.”

In its latest analysis of listings in 17 Maricopa County municipalities, Cromford said Phoenix and the East Valley showed “the biggest rises in supply” in April from last month – adding, “but even here supply remains lower than in April 2019.”

A case in point is Ahwatukee, where all three ZIP codes show lower inventory this month than in April 2019. Data gathered

by Cromford shows that in 85044, 70

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REAL ESTATE

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

Mortgage forbearance can be a minefield REALTOR.COM

W

hen Nicholas Dahl, 36, called Chase Bank to find out about his options for mortgage forbearance, an automated voice informed him the wait time would be 43 hours and 45 minutes.

Dahl hasn’t been able to draw a paycheck since all nonessential transportation businesses in Illinois were shuttered on March 21 due to the pandemic.

And he doesn’t know how much longer he and his wife will be able to keep making payments on the three-bedroom house in the Chicago suburbs.

After three hours and 45 minutes on hold, and several times where he heard a woman saying “hello” before going back to the call music, he finally hung up. He emailed the bank for information instead.

Chase responded that he could receive mortgage forbearance for 90 days. During those three months, Dahl wouldn’t have to make his payments and wouldn’t incur late fees, get reported to credit agencies or risk foreclosure.

But once that period was over, all the missed payments would come due at once.

“I don’t really think it’s worth it,” says Dahl, who’s losing about $5,000 in income each month his business is closed.

“I don’t really want to pay four mortgage payments in one.”

Dahl is one of many thousands of Americans who are having trouble making their monthly mortgage payments due to the coronavirus pandemic—or will soon if the crisis drags on.

The widespread misery spread by COVID-19 has left many homeowners scrambling to figure out how to pay their mortgages. Homeowners with government-backed loans – and even many without – are being offered up to 12 months of forbearance, doled out in 90-day chunks.

But this temporary fix could result in another wave of foreclosures if additional assistance isn’t provided.

Many homeowners could be asked to pay back all of those missed mortgage bills in one lump sum at the end of the forbearance period – a near impossible feat for many who can’t afford their payments today and don’t know when the economy will recover.

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the Federal Housing Administration say their borrowers, who make up slightly more than half of all buyers, are never required to make lump-sum payments. They also offer various assistance plans, some more generous than others.

But even those homeowners will also eventually have to make good on what they owe, a hardship for those out of work. Those who can’t could eventually lose their homes.

“We are concerned about what’s going on right now, with many people going into these forbearance plans without a clear sense of what will happen at the end,” one expert said. “If we don’t see further action from Congress to fill this hole ... we could see another foreclosure crisis when these forbearances end.”

Before the pandemic, the foreclosure crisis that followed the housing bust in 2008 seemed firmly in the rearview.

TRUST

In January, just 0.4 percent of mortgages were in some stage of foreclosure, according to the most recent data released by real estate data company CoreLogic.

Meanwhile, only 3.5 percent of mortgages were at least 30 days late.

But there are troubling signs those numbers could rise. About 3.74 percent of all mortgages were in forbearance by April 5, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. That’s compared with just 0.25 percent of loans in forbearance in the first week of March.

The association expects forbearance requests to steadily increase. About 15 million homeowners could rely on forbearance to get them through this crisis, or nearly a third of all single-family mortgages, predicts Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics.

That could result in roughly 2 million foreclosures, says Zandi. Housing advocates are urging different kinds of assistance.

Instead of forbearance, some want a program to keep mortgage payments affordable, similar to the one the federal

government created after the housing bust of more than a decade ago. It helped to save more than a million homes from foreclosures and short sales.

The program granted things like loan modifications, which could lower monthly payments, and deferments, which tacked missed payments onto the ends of loans, thereby extending their duration. Many government-backed loans offer similar options.

However, the federal government’s Home Affordable Modification Program was widely criticized for not helping nearly enough homeowners. And about a third of the borrowers in the program fell behind on their mortgage again.

Many homeowners seeking mortgage assistance are wary of forbearance.

“If you can make the payment, make the payment now,” says Rocke Andrews, a mortgage broker at Lending Arizona in Tucson and president of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers. “Don’t take [forbearance] if you don’t absolutely need it. It all becomes due, and who knows what happens between now and then.”

Gem of a sale

Ron & Coleen Tompkins

This home in the 16000 block of S. Mountain Stone Trail in Ahwatukee, had no problem selling at $815,000.

The 3,600-square-fooot, two-bedroom house, built in 2000, includes a 16-foot-high butted-glass living room window, a living/dining room corner kiva fireplace with flagstone bancos, 14-foot ceilings, an upscale gourmet kitchen with an open concept that includes a family room and breakfast nook. (Special to AFN)

GOT NEWS?

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

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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REAL ESTATE

MARKET from page RE1

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

homes were listed for sale at $200,000 or higher while 91 were on the market in April 2019.

In 85045, the 34 homes listed for sale this month are half the number listed a year ago and the 69 homes for sale in 85048 pale in comparison to the 173 that were on the market in April 2019.

Valleywide, Cromford said, “New listing counts are still declining by larger percentages each day - last week they were down 29 percent from the same week in 2019. If this trend continues, then it becomes more likely that supply will remain tight and stay below the diminished level of demand.”

Meanwhile, prices continue to inch up – a trend that is largely driven by the big imbalance between supply and demand.

If anything, the pandemic may have dampened demand – and is keeping prices from shooting up faster, Cromford said.

Cromford noted that the success rate for listings – how quickly homes sale – fell from 89 percent to 82 percent after March 21, when many businesses closed.

But, it added, “89 percent is abnormal-

ly high and 82 percent is still a long way above average.

“We have never seen prices decline when listing success rates are above 65 percent,” it said. “In fact, apart from a few isolated instances, price declines tend to follow listing success rates below 50 percent.”

On April 13, the report also said, “Not until supply and demand meet will we see prices stabilize and not until supply is higher than demand will we see prices decline. A lot can happen in the next 4 weeks, however. It’s still too early to be making apocalyptic projections for the Greater Phoenix housing market.”

But Cromford and other real estate experts say too much uncertainty even over the immediate future makes it impossible to say where the housing market is heading.

That was apparent in various mixed messages by different economists for Realtor.com, the website sponsored by the National Association of Realtors.

Realtor.com reported that nationwide, “the number of homes for sale fell by nearly half as sellers are pulling them off the market or holding off on listing their

Leading Luxury Home Experts

abodes.

And as nonessential businesses remain shuttered and unemployment soars, reaching 22 million jobless claims in just four weeks, home price growth is also beginning to slow.

Moreover, Realtor.com senior economist George Ratiu noted, “Sellers are recognizing the economic downturn is already a lot deeper than expected.”

Still, while the economy has slowed home price increases dramatically, they’re not falling.

Ratiu said, “Demand is already evaporating and, with that, prices will absolutely decline.”

But Danielle Hale, Realtor.com’s chief economist, offered a completely different take.

“I don’t expect the slowdown to be like the last recession where prices fell,” she said. “There are more than enough buyers out there to keep home sales from slowing in any major way.”

For now, however, there’s no reason for homebuyers to feel any more optimistic than they were before the economy shutdown in the pandemic’s wake.

“Even the most motivated buyers aren’t

REAL ESTATE

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Expert sees no wave of foreclosures in Arizona

likely to find a home easily,” Realtor.com said, citing the drop in listings as a major factor.

“Many sellers are taking their homes off the market or delaying listing them as they don’t want to lose out on fetching topdollar for their properties or move during a worldwide pandemic,” the website said.

Added Hale: “It will be different than the Great Recession. Things unraveled pretty quickly, and then the recovery was pretty slow. I would expect this to be milder.

There’s no dysfunction in the banking system, we don’t have [many] households who are overleveraged [with their mortgage payments] and are potentially in trouble.”

ing the Great Recession, in which millions of people lost their homes.

This time around, buyers are more fio big wave of foreclosures in Arinancially qualified, and subprime and zona is on radar.

New Jersey and Florida have the “liar loans,” for which income hasn’t been most counties at risk of a rise in foreclo- verified, have all but disappeared, making sures due to economic fallout from the the market more stable.

And unlike the last downturn, the fedCOVID-19 pandemic, according to a recent report from real estate information eral government and many individual banks are offering forbearance and a stay firm ATTOM Data Solutions.

Meanwhile, the West and Midwest are of evictions for 60 days for many mortless likely to see significant numbers of gages.

To come up with its findings, ATTOM people losing their homes.

The only Western counties to make the looked at the counties with the most list were Shasta County in Northern Cali- foreclosure filings and underwater mortgages (where homeowners owe more on fornia and Arizona’s Navajo County.

With millions of Americans filing for a home than it’s worth) in the last quarter unemployment in the past few weeks of 2019.

The firm also took into account the peramid the spreading coronavirus pandemic, and in spite of mortgage forbearance centage of average local wages needed measures, a wave of foreclosures may not to afford the major expenses associated be far behind – especially for those living with owning a median-priced home, such in the Northeast and parts of the South, as maintenance, in the first quarter of this year. says a recent report.

Only 483 counties, which had enough But real estate experts have predicted Please change 16022 S 46th Street to SOLD!!! that this will be no tidal wave, unlike dur- data available, were included in the re-

AFN NEWS SERVICES

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

port.

“Some parts of the country have seen home prices surge way past what average wage earners can afford, while others may be seeing equity lag if prices have flattened out recently or dipped,” Todd Teta, ATTOM’s chief product officer, said in a statement.

“Homeowners who bought in the past year, at the top of the market, are more likely to fall into that group,” Teta added.

Some markets have more foreclosures than others because those cases have been tied up in the courts for years and are just now being completed.

“The Northeast, particularly New Jersey, faces a triple whammy of unaffordable housing, above-average levels of underwater properties, and relatively high percentages of properties facing possible foreclosure,” Teta said.

“Homeowners who bought recently, at the peak of the market, will face the biggest issues if prices drop and they start owing more than their homes are worth,” he continued.

“It increases the chances for a repeat of what happened in the aftermath of the Great Recession of the late 2000 and early 2010s, with rising foreclosures or people simply walking away from their properties, unable or unwilling to keep paying off debt.”

Just five Midwestern counties were on the 50 riskiest list— all in Illinois.

On the other side of the ranking were the least vulnerable counties. Texas led the nation with 10 of the 50 least at-risk counties on the list. Three of these counties were in the Dallas metro area while two more were in the Midland area.

The Lone Star State was followed by Wisconsin, with seven of the least risky counties and Colorado with five.

“The Midwest generally has the lowest, most affordable home prices and some of the lowest foreclosure rates in the country,” Teta said. “The West is saddled with prices way out of reach for average workers in many areas. But because prices have run up so much, equity in that region is way better than in other regions.”

#1 Agent in Ahwatukee Closed Volume 2019

2016 & 2017 BREA Award for Most Sales in Ahwatukee!

PRIVADA

THE FOOTHILLS

SHADOW ROCK

COOPER COMMONS

EAGLE RIDGE NEW LISTING!

312 W Mountain Sage Drive

$289,000

1,376 sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Located in Privada in The Foothills of Ahwatukee this home is close to hiking/biking trails and all the beautiful nature that Ahwatukee has to offer. The first floor of this home offers an open concept family room and kitchen with stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar with seating and access to the patio where you have a lovely courtyard with a mountain view to relax in. Also on the first floor a convenient powder room. The second floor has the master bedroom with a wood accent wall, walk-in closet and master bathroom with a double sink vanity and walk-in shower. Two nice sized secondary bedrooms and a secondary full bathroom. Plus a bonus loft area with many possibilities. Tile throughout. Washer, dryer and refrigerator included.

15802 S 7th Street

$2,489,900

7,003 sqft, 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms. A completely Private Mountain Top Estate located within Eagle Ridge on a sprawling 4.6 acres overlooking the Ahwatukee Foothills with views as far as the eye can see. An impressive, property boasting 7,003 sqft of living space with 5 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. Enter this private property through a personal gate, arrive to a spectacular 2 story home with large columns, a front balcony, over-sized custom wrought iron doors and a pavered circular driveway that displays the overall grandness that continues into the interior of the home. Upon entry you will be greeted by the bright open space with floor to soaring ceiling windows providing amazing views of not only the mountains but of the unbelievable resort style backyard.

602.369.1085 BONNY HOLLAND Ahwatukee Resident and Realtor since 1995

Bonny@LeadingLuxuryExperts.com

FEATURED LISTING!

1317 E Thunderhill Place

$349,900

1,787 sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Lovely home located in The Foothills of Ahwatukee with mountain views and within walking distance to nearby schools. Open and bright with high ceilings and neutral paint this floorplan blends the family room, kitchen and dining room together for a nice functional flow. The updated kitchen features designer wood cabinets allowing for plenty of storage, stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, gorgeous glass tile backsplash and kitchen island with seating. Wood laminate and tile throughout. The backyard has a relaxing atmosphere with sparkling pebble tech pool with a variable speed pump, covered patio, pool side seating, grassy play area and mature landscaping.

2012 E Brookwood Court

$1,169,000

4,836 sqft, 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms. Welcome to this fabulous single level custom estate in the hillside gated community of The Sanctuary backing onto wide green belt. This home includes 4,836 sqft of livable space, front courtyard, casita suite with bathroom, 3 additional bedroom suites, 3.5 bathrooms, formal living and dining rooms, gourmet kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, family room, game room, theater room, office, exercise/nursery room, multi-room network wiring with automated controls, 3-car garage and resort style backyard with amazing mountain views!

FEATURED LISTING!

NEW LISTING!

2260 E Indian Wells Drive

$499,900

2,847 sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Stunning Updated Home! Spacious 4 Bedroom 3 bath. Light and bright featuring Formal Living room & Dining room plus LRG Family room, complete with updated wood plank tile flooring. Gorgeous updated granite kitchen w/island, Samsung stainless appliances and walk-in pantry. 4th bedroom has attached full bathroom, great for guests! Huge Master suite w/vaulted ceilings & exit door to backyard pool. Spa like master bath w/dbl sinks and granite counters, glass enclosed shower, spa soaker tub & walk-in closet. Separate Laundry room w/Samsung washer/dryer included. Large 3-car, 3ft extended garage w/plenty of built in cabinets. Enjoy your backyard Oasis w/ palm tree lined enormous play pool, w/upgraded salt system, variable speed pump and LED multicolored pool lighting all in 2017.

AHWATUKEE CUSTOM ESTATES

AHWATUKEE CUSTOM ESTATES

THE SANCTUARY

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING!

12675 S Honah Lee Court

$1,499,000

6,316 sqft, 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms. Located in the prestigious Ahwatukee Custom Estates community, this single level, Mediterranean-style home boasts a combination of old-world sophistication and comfortable charm. The private 6,316 square foot home is nestled in a cul-de-sac on an over half acre lot and boasts 5 bedrooms, 5 and ½ baths, two master suites, a spacious exercise room that can double as a bedroom, a private, gated driveway, gorgeous, mature landscaping, and an elegant courtyard. The formal dining area is intimate and opens to the living room, which has custom wooden beams, a large Cantera stone gas fireplace, and an inline door that merges the indoors and outdoors into an entertainer’s paradise with a diving pool, spa, built-in BBQ and multiple sitting areas with a roof top terrace. The kitchen is right in the heart of it all and includes refinished cabinets, upgraded Viking appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a temperature-controlled wine room. Plus a 4 car air conditioned garage with a bonus art & craft room. There is a lot to love in this beautiful home

www.LeadingLuxuryExperts.com

FEATURED LISTING!

$1,399,900

5,271 sqft, 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms. Absolutely Gorgeous One-of-a-Kind Craftsman with a Basement Located in the Prestigious Community of Ahwatukee Custom Estates. This Home is packed with Today’s Features the Main floor offers a Spacious Gourmet Kitchen Decorated in Re-Purposed Iowa Barnwood with a Large Farm Sink, Subway Tile Back Splash, Quartz Counter Tops and a Large Kitchen Island with Under the Counter Mounted Seating. A Charming Family Room located just off the Kitchen, an Over-Sized Formal Dining Room, 6th Bedroom/Den/Office with its own private Entrance/Exit and full Bathroom and a Massive Laundry Room which doubles as a Craft Room. Upstairs you will find a Loft Area and The Master Bedroom en Suite with Private Balcony, Upgraded Master Bathroom with His & Hers Sinks, Separate Soaking Tub and Shower plus 3 more roomy Secondary Bedrooms and Bathrooms. The Fully Finished Basement Boasts another Bedroom with Full Bathroom, Built-In Playhouse, Walk-In Pantry, Extra Large Open Flex Space for Game Room, Theater Room or Exercise Space the possibilities are endless! Huge Backyard with Tons of Outdoor Entertainment! Pool, Batting Cage, Half Court, Trampoline and Multiple patio and sitting areas! A Must See!

Each Keller Williams Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

NEW LISTING!

1532 E Nighthawk Way

$539,900

2,550 sqft, 3 bedrooms + den, 2 bathrooms. Located in the gated community of Shadow Rock at The Foothills, this beautiful single level hillside home has three bedrooms plus a large den/ media room and amazing views of the Foothills Mountains and South Mountain beyond. Beautiful desert scape front and back yard with a sparkling play pool, extended paved patio and heated above ground spa with beautiful views of the mountains! Tile flooring throughout, custom shutters, upgraded lighting and fixtures, updated kitchen, updated bathrooms and very well maintained with a newer roof (2014). Home also has a spacious three car garage with attached storage cabinets.

MONTANA VISTA

3407 E Tere Street

re5

SALE PENDING!

14612 S 4th Avenue

$649,900

2,912 sqft, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Located in the mountainous gated community of Montana Vista, this gorgeous single level 3 bedroom 3 full bathroom home with an executive office is situated on a beautiful lot with stunning mountain views. Nature surrounds this home with a ravine on the backside of the property and South Mountain at the top of the cul de sac providing spectacular views for you to enjoy from either the sparkling pool or while relaxing in the above ground spa. Bright with an open concept floorplan in both the living room and dining room as well as in the family room and kitchen. Plus a three car extended garage and newer air conditioning, this home has it all!

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

SPOTLIGHT TLIGHT home

ROSE CANYON ESTATES

1126 W Thunderhill Drive NEW LISTING

2,472 sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. A charming Single Level Spanish Colonial style home located in the private gated community of Rosewood Canyon Estates which sets adjacent to the 16,000 acre South Mountain Park. Enjoy having access to an exclusive entrance to the many hiking, biking and nature trails just a few doors down from this stunning property. With a welcoming entry, find yourself inside this ‘like new’ home with a fantastic open concept main living area blending together; a Great room, dining room and gourmet kitchen to create an amazing space. The Great room & dining room have gorgeous mountain views! The gourmet kitchen is the center of attention!

Bright and light with upgraded stainless steel appliances, 36’’ cook top, granite countertops, upgraded cabinets, over-sized walk-in pantry, centered kitchen island with seating and special to this home over-sized pull out drawers for all of your storage needs. Enjoy your relaxing, low maintenance backyard offering both covered and uncovered sitting areas, mature flowering landscape, synthetic grass with South Mountain for your viewing pleasure. Catch the sunsets in the West with mountain views from the luxurious master bedroom. An open, roomy master bathroom with his & her sinks, separate soaking tub and shower, private toilet room and a walk-in closet completes this en suite. With two spacious secondary bedrooms plus a full bath, powder room and an over-sized laundry room this home has all you could want or need. This home is filled with designer upgrades and designed with energy efficiency in mind, this home was certified to be 43% more efficient than the building codes in 2017 and 60-70 % more efficient than re-sale homes, saving you money! Great Ahwatukee Location, Award winning Kyrene Schools! Ahwatukee Foothills Voted #1 2019 Best Places to Live in the Phoenix Area by the Phoenix Business Journal!

Offered at $649,900

Bonny Holland 602.369.1085 www.LeadingLuxuryExperts.com

kw

®

SONORAN LIVING

KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY

TAPESTRY CANYON Majestic Southwest contemporary estate on elevated 1.24-acre hillside lot. Stunning, panoramic mountain and city light views in exclusive Tapestry Canyon. Open gourmet kitchen with view windows boasts Gaggenau appliances, wok cook system, granite countertops and island and birds-eye maple Chilean cabinetry. Master suite features spectacular corner view window and arcadia door to patio. Additional amenities include theater room, office, wine cellar, sound system throughout, auto alarm and control system, automatic solar shades plus outside awning. Large hobby room adjacent to laundry room.

Travertine and marble flooring throughout. Oversized 3-car garage. Resort-style backyard with slate patio, builtin Viking grill, pool and spa, koi pond and ultimate privacy on coveted mountain preserve lot.

Extraordinary view from every room with abundant natural light. Premium location. Two water features.

One is micro biotic koi pond ecologically sustained with minimum maintenance. New 2019 exterior paint. New 2019 energy star hot water heater with Wi-Fi control. New 2019 soft water system. New 2019 partial air conditioning.

Home theater room screen and equipment to convey.

Family room in-wall led TV to convey. New 2020 front automatic awning. Smart house with app controlling doors, water heater, softener and temperature.

Listed for $1,325,000

kw

®

Mike Mendoza

SONORAN LIVING

KELLER WILLIAMS® REALTY

480.706.7234 • www.MendozaTeam.com

PRISTINE & CLASSY GATED CALABREA ESTATE! PRISTINE & CLASSY GATED ESTATE ON A PREMIUM 2/3 ACRE HILLSIDE LOT • PRIVATE CUL-DE-SAC • 6 BEDROOMS, 4.5 BATHS, 5200 SQFT OF PURE LUXURY FINISHES • STUNNING VIEWS IN EVERY DIRECTION • IRON DOOR • BUTTED GLASS WINDOWS IN ENTRY & KITCHEN • CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS • DECORATOR PAINT • DOME CEILING FOYER & GROIN VAULTED CEILINGS IN LIVING ROOM • TRAVERTINE & HARDWOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT • 7-INCH BASEBOARDS • MEDIA ROOM • DREAM KITCHEN INCLUDES S/S APPLIANCES,SLAB GRANITE COUNTERS, ALDER CABINETS,HUGE ISLAND,WALK IN PANTRY • LARGE MASTER SUITE W/STONE FIREPLACE • MASTER BATH W/JACUZZI TUB,3 VANITIES & SNAIL SHOWER • PARADISE BACKYARD W/TRAVERTINE IN VERSAILLES PATTERN,TURF GRASS,PEBBLETEC POOL/ JACUZZI,4 WATER FEATURES,LARGE COVERED PATIO,STACKED STONE BBQ • 4 CAR GARAGE W/EPOXY & STORAGE! YOUR DREAM ESTATE AWAITS!!

Listed for $1,449,000

Geno Ross (602) 751-2121 www.GenoRoss.com

REAL ESTATE

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

How to avoid shady realtors in housing market

BY DANIELLE RACKE AFN Guest Writer

I

t’s not hard to find a real estate agent horror story in this day and age.

Unfortunately, the average buyer often puts more effort into finding someone to cut their hair than they do qualifying a real estate agent to work with for their home purchase.

Most sellers who put a little more time and effort into qualifying a real estate agent for their home sale will have a much better grasp of the concept that they’re literally hiring someone to do a job and will typically do a little more research before signing on the dotted line of the listing agreement.

So what can you do to protect yourself when you need to enlist the services of a real estate agent?

First and foremost, ask friends, family and colleagues for positive experiences they’ve had with a buying/listing agent. Don’t accept the old, “My friend, mom, cousin has a license, you should call them!”

480-706-7234

Rather, only accept names from people who have had firsthand experience working through the buying/selling process with the named agent.

Googling the perspective agent and reading reviews never hurts, but reviews can be gamed fairly easily in this day and age.

You can also run a search on the Arizona Department of Real Estate’s website to see if the agent has had any disciplinary actions or current open complaints against them.

Lastly, make sure the agent you’re working with does this full time –if an agent is dedicating 40 hours a week to a boss somewhere else, can they really give you and your transaction the attention and management it deserves?

I personally suggest that clients take dual-agency off the table.

What is dual agency? In Arizona, it’s when one agent represents both sides of the transaction. It can also be when one brokerage has two differing agents representing each side of the party, but for this example, I’m using the one-agent-doesit-all example –- both forms are legal in

Arizona.

Most agents love dual agency because it typically results in double the paycheck.

Most of the general public doesn’t understand that when they permit dual agency, they are signing away some of their fiduciary rights, like loyalty.

Your agent is no longer your sole representation, but now acts as a middle man of sorts to facilitate the closing of the transaction.

If an agent gets cranky when you remove the dual agency option, I suggest looking for another agent who will keep your best interest ahead of the pursuit of a paycheck.

Pay attention to the way the perspective agent communicates. Do they only call when you like to text? Do they respond in a timely manner? Do they respond at all?

Do they listen to the criteria that you sent them, or are they sending you homes that don’t fit what you’ve asked for?

The home buying/selling process is just that: A Process. It takes time, communication and teamwork.

If your agent can’t be bothered to re-

5 BR / 4.5 BA / 4,924 SQFT

Magnificent mountain luxury retreat perched high on elevated hillside lot in exclusive gated community with majestic views.

Tapestry Canyon

Majestic Southwest contemporary home on private hillside lot with stunning mountain and city light views.

Listed for $1,510,000

3BR / 2 BA / 2252 SQFT New flooring, granite countertops, newer roof and 2019 A/C replacement. 3-cargarage plus a pool.

Tempe

spond in a timely manner when you’re trying to see homes, do you think they’ll be any different when the clock is ticking on imperative timelines that could jeopardize your earnest deposit? Make sure you demand the communication and performance you need to feel comfortable and represented in your buying process.

And if the agent you’re communicating with doesn’t deliver, protect yourself and find one who does.

Finding a quality real estate agent takes time and effort, but if you do your due diligence and follow these steps, you can exponentially increase your chances of having a great experience.

Danielle Racke is a broker and Realtor with Red House Realty specializing in homes with oversized garages. Information: bigassgaragehomes.com.

GOT NEWS?

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

Ahwatukee’s #1 Team for Over 30 Years 5 BR / 5.5 BA / 5,002 SQFT

Listed for $425,000

Tapestry Canyon !

LD O S

3 BR / 2.5 BA / 2,288 SQFT Prime Ahwatukee home featuring a 2020 roof replacement plus perfect mountain views.

5 BR / 3.5 BA / 4,839 SQFT $50,000 update allowance now included on this outstanding hillside custom with amazing mountain and city light views.

Tapestry Canyon !

LD O S

Listed for $1,099,000

4 BR / 2.5 BA / 2,581 SQFT Immaculately updated golf course home with mountain views from the 17th hole of the Foothills Golf Club.

Listed for $334,900

Arizona Greens

Mike Mendoza MendozaTeam.com

D! L SO

Listed for $1,325,000

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Listed for $525,000

Foothills

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

re8

Ahwatukee Custom Estates $1,950,000

Amazing Remodeled Custom Estate with mountain views located at the end of a cul-de-sac.Over 8000sqft of pure luxury finishes.6 Bedroom,5.5 Baths.Custom Kitchen.Elevator.Executive Office.Basement Media Room.Dance Studio.Huge Backyard with Pool, Jacuzzi, Turf, BBQ, Sportcourt.This is a Spectacular Estate has it all!!!

Ahwatukee Custom Estates

$2,099,000

SOLD!

One of the most amazing view lots in all of AZ. Custom home with everythingl 10,000 sq. ft., 3/4 acre prserve lot, 6 bedrooms, 6 bathes, Executive Office Suite, Master Suite with Sitting Room, Master Bath with Jacuzzi, Theater Room, Exercise Room, Loft, Guest House, Grand Foyer, Gourmet Kitchen, Resort Backyard with Pebbletec Diving Pool, Watertalls, slide, Volcano, firepit, Spa, Sport Court, Grassy Play Areas, & Outdoor Kitchen, 4-car A/C Garage. A true masterpiece!!!

Ahwatukee Custom Estates Stunning Single level custom estate

SOLD!

Calabrea $1,099,000

Cabrillo Canyon $689,000

located on a huge lot at the end of a culde-sac with a 6-car garage. Completely remodeled with the highest quality finishes. Everything is new. Grand Foyer. Living Room w/fireplace. Formal Dining Room. large Family Room w/full wet bar. Media Room & Game Room.

Kitchen includes custom cabinetry, rare quartzsite counters, Thermador appliances. Stunning South Mountain views. An estate like this rarely becomes available!!!

$1,299,000

Summerhill $1,099,000

5 bedroom / 3 bath, 3,506 SqFt, Cul-de-sac location with huge backyard, sports court, built-in BBQ, mature shade trees, very private backing to wash. Good size bedrooms, master downstai5. Features a large office with PENDING! balcony, plus office/loft with built-in bookcase and 3 full baths. Th� home is perfect for family gatherings BEST NEAR THE LOOP 202 in gated withand stunning mountain only. views. andLOCATION entertaining.

CanNEW be previewed with 24Calabrea hour notice appointment

Stunning Single Level Custom Remodel on a huge corner lot in a cul-de-sac! *4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath *The highest quality custom finishes throughout *Grand foyer *Formal living & dining room *Familt room w/fireplace *Wetbar *Designer kitchen includes: quartzsite counters & island, s/s appliances, custom cabinetry, walk-in pantry *Recessed LED lights throughout *Plantation shutters *Large master suite *Master bath w/walk-in shower, free standing tub, & walk-in closet *Laundry room w/sink *Wood flooring *Custom fixtures *Trane A/C’s *Private backyard w/covered patio, pebbletec pool, turf, & RV gate with tons of room to park the toys *3 Car garage with epoxy *The lot is very private *The house shows like a new build *Do not miss your opportunity to own this amazing Cabrillo Canyon Estate!

Complete with the highest quality build and finishes. Gourmet kitchen includes slab granite counters, alder cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. This estate also features a media/ theater room with 105 inch screen. The basement includes a full wet bar, family room & 2 bedrooms. Resort Backyard with pool. A perfect 10!

www.GenoRoss.com Donna Leeds

�

TOP GRI, ABR REALTOR

®

949.310.5673

lf"fl!

SOLD!

Geno Ross

Stunning single-level custom estate gated summerhill on a 1/2 acre lot. beautiful mountain views. Gourmet Kitchen. Master Suite w/sitting area. Two master suites. Split floorplan. Executive office w/built-in cabinets. Tropical paradise backyard w/covered patio, gazebo, pebbletec pool, rock waterfall, built-in bbq, turf, & putting green. This estate has the perfect floorplan!!

602.751.2121

wwwBestAgentWUSA.com

Making Ahwatukee

Home Dreams Come True Since 1986 www.WestUSA.com I 480.893.0600

4505 E. Chandler Boulevard, Suite 170, Phoenix, AZ 85048

Gilbert

Pointe South Mountain

SOLD!

$397,000

Gorgeous Ahwatukee home, an absolute dream, 2254 square feet, 3 bedrooms plus den/loft, 3 full bathrooms, 2 car garage, newly installed hardwood floors, Updated galley kitchen & cabinets, granite countertops & stainless steel appliances.

Travertine in kitchen and bathrooms. Enjoy your beautiful back yard overlooking the golf course and custom made fountain.

Jenifer Bulfer 480-297-6968 jbulfer@westusa.com

Ahwatukee

4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3252 Sq Ft. This gorgeous family home with it’s backyard oasis combines the best of indoor and outdoor living . The remodeled kitchen overlooks the dining/family room with gas fireplace and offers granite counter tops, stainless appliances, duel ovens, wet bar and large pantry. Recently repainted inside & out and re-carpeted in 2019.

Troy Royston 480-435-3461 troyston61@gmail.com

SOLD $565,000 SOLD!

$559,900

$545,000

Single Story in the Gated Community of La Mirada, in Seville a golfing community w/Clubhouse, community pool, restaurant & amazing amenities! Split floor plan, w/ GREAT ROOM & Formal Dining Room. Gourmet kitchen w/slab granite countertops. 3 car tandem garage! North/ South lot!

Impeccable, Executive 5 bedroom/3.5 bath home in Foothills.

This popular model includes formal living/dining areas plus a huge great room w/ gas fireplace. Enjoy your private oasis backyard w/ extended covered patio, refreshing pebbletec pool/spa, paver walkways & sitting areas, and artificial turf.

LaDonna Underwood 480-415-0194 ladonnahomes@gmail.com

Pecos West

Jill Ostendorp 480-678-7308 jillo@homesbyjillo.com

Foothills Golf Course Lot!

SOLD!

$512,000

Canyon Springs

Club West

NO HOA! 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 1930 sq.ft. This home has an Open Airy Feel & Lots of Architectural Character. Updated Master Bath with Walk-in Shower. Bamboo Flooring and Shutters T/O. Updated Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans. SOLAR PANELS THAT ARE OWNED. Nice Backyard W/ Covered Patio & Synthetic Grass. Move-in Ready!

Geri Thompson 480-239-7589 gerithompson@westusa.com

CALL FOR PRICING!

Beautiful updated 3 bed +loft 2.5 bath home on a golf course lot with newly remodeled pool, mountain views & on a cul-de-sac street. Home has been updated & has kitchen, family room, bedrooms, loft & walk out patio with views. This well taken care of home features open floor plan with neutral colors. Make this house your home!

Deborah Casey-Shasky Associate Broker 602-818-3962 debcs@cox.net

$549,900

MULTIPLE OFFERS RECEIVED

UNDER CONTRACT IN TWO DAYS!! Immaculate home with Million Dollar Mtn and Golf Views await you in this spacious single story home. As you enter, unwind in sunken Living room, cozy family room. Enjoy cooking in your gourmet kitchen w/ refaced cabinets, SS appliances, granite counters & reclaimed wood barn doors to pantry/laundry.

Jill Ostendorp 480-678-7308 jillo@homesbyjillo.com

Chandler

$549,900

SOLD!

Custom home located on one acre irrigated horse property. 2,210 sq ft-4 Bed plus den 2 bath . Built in 2003. Home features three car extended garage, vaulted ceilings, split floorplan.

Tracy Bartosch 520-440-9988 realtortracy@msn.com

COMMUNITY

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

HORIZON from page 20

estly, it’s working great for the situation we are in.”

Kieran Andrew confessed, “While it has been nice to work alone more often, the more casual home environment makes it difficult for me to stay motivated and on task.”

It’s not the learning that’s a problem.

“My involvement in extracurriculars has been hampered,” Kieran said. “For example, I work for a neuroscience lab at ASU. While we still have weekly Zoom meetings there are many projects, including the one I was helping with, that have been slowed or on hold due to the closure. I miss not being able to interact face to face with people, although I am still keeping in contact with them frequently through texts or calls.”

Senior and student body President Caileigh Burdette was event lead for the school’s annual Relay for Life and worked on preparing the prom.

“I feel very sad about the prom getting canceled for two reasons,” she said. “It was

CHURCH from page 20

residency program at Banner, read that the University of Florida had found a way to make masks from the Halyard H600 medical fabric used to wrap sterile surgical trays.

“The innovative masks use Halyard H600 two-ply spun polypropylene that is thought to be superior to the common surgical mask in its ability to block aerosols and droplets, including water, bacteria and other particles,” she read.

Her husband, anesthesiologist Todd Peterson, is routinely in operating rooms and could collect this material, which in normal times is thrown away.

Congregants Pam Yount and Liz Farquhar downloaded the pattern and started sewing.

Doris Dorwart and Jane Gisselquist soon joined.

So far, the sewing team has delivered some 75 masks to Jayne, who has distributed them to medical residents and other staff at the two hospitals.

The donations are welcome.

“Masks are hard to come by right now, and we’ve all heard stories about healthcare workers who have had to reuse the same mask for multiple days in a row,” said Dr. Ian Welsh.

going to be a time to spend with my senior friends that looked back on all our years and dances spent together. Two, the senior class in the Student Council had put a lot of time and effort into planning a dance that would be remembered.”

For some, there’s an anguished desire for a return to life before COVID-19, though the seniors realize that’s a dream they certainly won’t come true before their high school career is over.

“I think delaying things like prom, graduation and things like the grad trip are truly annoying and I would just like things to get to a point where I could have a somewhat normal graduation or at least a normal last week of senior year,” said Joseph Aljets.

“However,” Joseph added, “I would much rather not have the possibility of being exposed.”

While filled with regret and disappointment, however, the Horizon seniors not only were philosophical but also not content to sit and feel sorry for themselves.

“My club soccer season was cut short due to the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Aiden. “I was supposed to attend a tourna-

ment in Las Vegas, which was canceled due to the virus. I also had been very involved in various school clubs including being vice president of key club, a member of NHS, and president of Protect our Earth club.

“Instead, I have found other ways to positively impact my community, such as by donating blood and starting an Instagram page called teensagainstcovid, which promotes ways for my peers and me to remain productive while quarantined at home.”

Kieran lamented, “I am more disappointed to be missing out on this current period of my life, as high school graduation only occurs once, but I realize there are other moments to look forward to as well.”

Xin said, “I also very much miss the school environment and seeing all my friends and teachers and to think that we’ll never be able to have our last day of ‘normal’ high school is extremely sad.”

But, she added, “There will still be other fun events in the future.”

Marisela Rivera said, “Going to school every day and seeing people you have quite

er source.

Jayne said masks made from cotton fabric are also welcome for staff not involved in direct patient care but who nevertheless work in a high-risk environment.

Yount, a retired endoscopy nurse, said sewing masks makes her feel like she’s doing something useful for those in health care who are doing essential work – in many cases without proper protection.

“With these masks they can have some peace of mind,” she said. “I wanted to do something during this time of crisis and since I am able to sew this seemed like a good fit. In the bePam Yount sews masks for healthcare staffers. (Special to AFN) ginning the pattern was a bit dif“Homemade masks are incredibly ficult, but now it is easy. helpful to try to slow the spread of this “When I get bored, I remember why I’m virus, especially when well-constructed doing this project. If I was still working in like these”. healthcare, I’d certainly want some kind The doctors say that it’s encouraging of protection.” to know that the community is thinking Hours are long and stress is high for the about them and trying to help. medical residents and other staff to the “It has been amazing to have this level point where, Jayne said, many cannot get of community support and the masks are away for a break and good food. so helpful at a time when the supply is so The VA hospital staff have very limited limited,” added Dr. Cordel Fuher. options, so most bring a brown bag or try The Petersons are looking for anoth- to find a few minutes to go out. They long

21

literally grown up with and grown close with, you develop a pattern. Then, all of a sudden, there is a break in the pattern and you are told you can’t see people you easily see every day – it’s hard. Some people take it lightly, but for me, it’s been hard.”

“It’s a hard idea to wrap my head around. It would have been my last high school dance ever,” she added, “but I must say, I am also very grateful I went to previous prom and homecoming dances.”

Noting the things she and her classmates are missing, Marisela added, “To have it taken away without really knowing it was going to happen -- makes me wish I did not take the beginning of the school year for granted.”

Added Caileigh, “I was looking forward to ending my years at Horizon Honors with people I have been going to school with since elementary.”

But, Caileigh said, “I feel that at the moment a lot has been taken away, but I also believe that everything will work out to what it is supposed to be. This will definitely be a moment that is remembered in history.”

for home-cooked food.

So, Farquhar organized some of Esperanza’s cooks to provide homemade lunches to the hospitals once a week. She said the rules are simple: make it tasty and make it yourself.

One team cooks for the VA Hospital staff, about 15-20 people, while the other cooks for 25 to 30 Banner staffers.

The teams maintain social distancing by dropping off food at the church kitchen on Mondays. Jayne picks it up on her way to work on Tuesdays.

“I’ve told the teams that these lunches are a gift of love. We are filling hearts as much as we are filling bellies,” Farquhar said.

The response has been enthusiastic, she added.

One staffer wrote: “Your church members are absolutely AMAZING!!! Definitely the hands and feet of Jesus. Praying for safety and protection over each one of them!”

People who can help with the lunch teams can email Farquhar at liz.farquhar51@gmail.com.

“We can always use cooks, but if you don’t cook you could help with supplies, including paper plates, plastic cutlery, napkins, sandwich bags and Ziploc or Glad containers (single serving size),” she said.

22

COMMUNITY

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

As temps rise, keep your dog safe from overheating

BY LISA THAYER AFN Guest Writer

A

s we are moving through April in a much different way than many of us have ever seen, the one thing our dogs know is that this is probably the best time of their lives so far.

Many of us are working from home now. This means more human time to our pups or kitties, although I’m not sure if the latter appreciates it quite as much as our dog pals.

You have probably even increased your walks with your dog recently and with that you may have noticed the temperatures slowly rising.

So, this is just a reminder that although it may not feel too terribly hot yet to us humans, those sidewalks, streets and cars are feeling much warmer to our loyal companions.

Right now, our air temperatures are not too bad, but when the air temperature is 85 degrees, the asphalt can reach up to

around 120 degrees.

And the heat is only going to rise. When we begin to hit 100-degree temperatures and higher, the asphalt is going up to around 165 degrees in the sun. That would burn our feet after a few minutes of standing!

The best rule of thumb is to place the back of your hand on the pavement and if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dogs’ bare paws.

Thankfully there are great products to help protect their paws and keep you walking.

RC Pet Products is one of my personal favorites for a product they call Pawks and Sport Pawks. These are just like socks but for dogs.

They come in a pack of four and in sizes from XXSmall up to XLarge. The Pawks have cool patterns like Sock Monkey, or others that look like little MaryJane shoes; these have a rubber type padding on the bottom of the socks to protect their paws.

The Sport Pawks come in vibrant colors and they have a full protective rubber type coating covering the top of their feet

and the entire bottom of their feet.

These sock-like products are great because the dogs can still feel the ground underneath their feet, so they adapt to them quickly. Booties are an excellent choice too especially if you and your pup are big hikers or take walks longer than 30 minutes in the summer.

A couple other solutions to help your dogs get through the summer are to walk in the evening or early morning when it’s not so hot and the sun is not out; walk in the grass when available; or reach out to a company called Run Buddy Mobile.

Run Buddy Mobile has vans with dog treadmills inside of them. They pull up to your house and take your dog on a run in their air-conditioned van.

They even let your dog do a trial run to make sure they are open to it. So, there are a lot of options to help your pup and you stay fit even when it’s over 100 degrees, and of course always have water with you for you and your dog.

Let’s talk about car rides for your dog when it’s hot temperatures.

If you bring your pup with you out to

run errands and it’s a beautiful 80-degree day, your car can reach 110 degrees in 15 minutes.

If you must bring your dog with you somewhere, you will need to leave the air conditioning running in the car while you run into the store.

If you see an animal or child in a locked car, you may remove them by following theses five steps: Call 911; Make sure there is imminent danger of death or injury; Ensure the vehicle is locked and there is no other way to remove the child or pet; Use no more force than necessary; Remain at the scene until authorities arrive.

If you are guilty of leaving a pet unattended, you may face three years’ probation, a $2500 fine and a maximum of six months in prison.

So best advice is to leave your pets at home in the air conditioning with water during the hottest months.

Take care of each other, take care of yourselves, and take care of your pets.

Lisa Thayer owns Gordy’s Goodies Pet Food & Supplies in Ahwatukee. Information: gordyspetsupplies.com.

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OPINION

Opinion 24

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

Share Your Thoughts:

@AhwatukeeFN |

@AhwatukeeFN

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

www.ahwatukee.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Veteran writes call to action to support restaurants

This is plea from one veteran to any veteran who has been honored and thanked for their service and sacrifices to our country by the many restaurants around America.

Every Veterans Day and even other times of the year, many restaurants with their outstanding servers have opened their hearts and their restaurants to thousands of veterans.

They provide free meals to show their gratitude and salute each of us that served so proudly. Some restaurants serve veterans by providing meal discounts each and every day through the year.

They have been here for us. It’s now our time to help them.

Now is the time for us to support them by calling our favorite restaurants and putting in an order to go, pickup or delivery. This simple action will help them to maintain their establishment and have the means to keep their valuable employees (our favorite servers) so they can support their families. Please order and tip.

Veterans, this is again one more attack on our great nation. Please step up to the call for action. Help your favorite restaurant to be here in November, Veterans Day, and for the future to be able to continue honoring and thanking you with their hearts and meals.

If you don’t have a favorite restaurant and want to help, here are a couple that I support: Biscuits, 4623 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee, 480-209-1850; Macayo’s, 12637 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee, 480-598-5101; Texas Roadhouse, 8510 S. Emerald Drive, Tempe, 480-940-7427; Valle Luna, 1949 W. Ray Road, Chandler, 480-786-3100.

Semper Fi and thank you!

-Sherrill Kinnaman

Letter to President Trump prompts rebuttal

Regarding the April 8 letter to the editor and President Trump: Referencing your China advice: World di-

plomacy and trade is a very delicate subject and unless you are a scholar in the field, l would hesitate to even remotely consider you know what you are talking about.

Referencing your advice to Trump: You sound like a grandmother teaching a spoiled 10-year-old how to act. But I guess someone needs to tell the president of the United States how to act and how to stand and how to exercise.

Oh, but my dear he does exercise: he golfs! I dare you to look up what it has cost taxpayers and I dare you to justify that expense.

It’s truly amazing you recognize Trump’s school boy attitude but don’t waste your breath – a bully braggart liar is not going to stop the school boy retaliatory remarks and putdowns.

And as far as God blessing his family for their endeavors, you had better examine your conscience. This is the man who brags that his daily COVID-19 updates have ratings that are greater than “The Bachelor” and bigger than the Super Bowl all the while people are suffering.

His son-in-law claims the national stockpile of medical supplies is not for the states. His sons pay to savagely kill innocent animals. His daughter, who’s now defunct clothing line was made in – oh wait, China! – she was in charge of the Made in America movement? This is who God should bless?

When are you going to wake up and realize he doesn’t care about you or this country?

You are obviously a Christian. I am quite sure you are familiar with this.

According to Christian tradition the seven deadly sins are: envy, gluttony, greed, lust, pride, sloth and wrath.

While you pray, share your thoughts with God and try to rationalize your adoration of a proven sinner.

The rest of us are praying this administration doesn’t destroy America.

-Diane Eide

Stinknet looks pretty but nothing is good about it

I guess most of us have been out walking more than normal lately. Have you seen the Stinknet growing everywhere? This is a cheery looking plant with bright yellow balls for flowers. But, don’t believe the pleasing appearance.

Stinknet, or globe chamomile is a noxious weed, and it is on the move through Ahwatukee. This invasive and very successful plant disrupts local ecosystems and inflames allergies. Already the plant is widespread in central, west and north Phoenix areas.

We need to act fast before this plant forever alters the desert landscape on our side of South Mountain. I first saw the yellow flowers last year, growing here and there around hiking trails. Now I see large swaths of it just about everywhere on our trails, sprouting up in yards and along roadways.

In late summer when the plants dry out, they are like tinder spreading across the landscape, just waiting for a spark. There is nothing good about this plant.

Each one of those yellow balls contains about 400 seeds and a mature plant can have thousands of the ball-like flowers. When the plants are wet the flowers stick to everything, shoes, tires, pets, and wildlife. As the carrier moves around, the seeds drop. The seeds also travel easily on the wind.

According to the Arizona Native Plant Society the best strategy is to pull globe chamomile when it first emerges in late November. So have a good look at the plants now when you can easily identify them with the yellow flowers. The greenery looks like carrot tops.

The plants begin to flower in January and can set seeds as early as mid-February. In years of good winter rains, like this one, there will be a prodigious production of Stinknet and seeds…up to three generations can grow in a single season.

I’m hoping we can pull the plants when we see them and bag them right away to

prevent the spread of seeds.

And perhaps our HOAs would consider spraying the plants. ANPS recommends a product called Garlon with active ingredient Trichlopyr4. Roundup/Glysophate does not work to kill these plants. Garlon is safe for animals and breaks down quickly in sunlight.

This is another action we can take as a community to make Ahwatukee a better place to live.

-Gail Cochrane

Voting by mail makes both economic and safety sense

Permanent Early Voting List ballots are an Arizona mainstay with over 80 percent of eligible voters already signing on.

This should be an automatic for not only Arizona, but also the country as we witness state-by-state setting up mail-in-ballots throughout this COVID-19 election cycle.

Why not make it the way to vote in every election for every voter? This mail-in-ballot process creates economic sense, safe and easy voting practices and swift voting results.

Change, a word frequented today in this virus-infested world. Change for the better includes new traditions like mail-in ballots only. Embrace it.

-CJ Briggle

Share Your Thoughts:

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

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

25

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BUSINESS

Business 26

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

@AhwatukeeFN |

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www.ahwatukee.com

Virus leads to new business for local family

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

A

s with countless millions, the pandemic and the ensuing economic turmoil rocked the Ahwatukee household of Kim and Dominic Palmieri.

But 30 days after their world was turned upside down, the family came up with a way to survive and help people stave off the coronavirus.

The CEO of a major food service business, Dominic and his family formed Sanitized Now, a mobile disinfection service that uses EPA-registered, hospital grade chemicals to disinfect just about any kind of space.

“We feel that we can help the Ahwatukee community by creating safer spaces for families, businesses, elderly residents etc.,” said Dominic’s daughter Carmela, a partner in the business that’s owned by her father.

“Sanitized Now has a solution for every home, office or business to help control spread of the coronavirus. We can sanitize

for more than 30 years.

A freshman at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Carmela was studying business until she switched to biochemistry.

Her older brother Gino, a junior at the University of Southern California, was studying international busiCarmela Palmieri disinfects a home with a hospital-grade, EPA sanitizer. (Special to AFN) ness. almost any space to help keep employees Their dad was CEO of Odyssey, LLC, a and families safer,” she added. large concession company whose 600 emLike it did for untold millions of others, ployees provide carnival rides, food and the year began much differently for the games for the Arizona State Fair and many Palmieris, who have lived in Ahwatukee other fairs across the Southwest and a ser-

vice supplier to a number of restaurants.

Then the pandemic began.

Carmela and Gino went home when their schools shut down.

As for dad, Carmela said, “We had a hugely successful food service company.

Business had changed dramatically for us as we were experiencing shutdown on a mass scale.”

As the family huddled to figure out their next move, it dawned on them that even when the world returns to some kind of normalcy, the concern over infection will make businesses and customers think much differently about their environment.

“We had been looking at solutions to disinfect spaces of all sizes, primarily large spaces, but quickly realized that it was the family residences and small businesses that really needed our services more than ever with the pandemic in full swing.

“We were thinking of solutions to help get our current industry up and running,”

see SANITIZE page 27

Ahwatukee pet sitters now mostly sitting alone

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

K

ate McPike was enjoying a thriving business as K8’s Pet Care when the pandemic struck.

The ensuing stay-at-home directives meant area pet owners didn’t require their regular pet sitters for daily walks or drop-in visits as they had previously.

And for McPike and other Ahwatukee pet sitting businesses, those actions brought a tsunami of cancellations.

“Once Trump shut down travel to the UK and Europe and then Disneyland shut their gates, everyone cancelled on me,” said McPike. “I’ve had no business since mid-March and have nothing on the books until the end of May, Memorial Day weekend, but I think that will probably get cancelled as well.”

“I do have one nurse practitioner and I go to her house every Monday to let her two dogs out for a potty break. That’s it,” said McPike who recently extended her own company’s closure from April 15 to April 30.

“I’m certainly open to helping other essential workers who need daytime pet care but I’m not doing overnights anymore,” stated McPike, who started her company here in 2016 after moving from Texas, where she also worked as a pet sitter.

The system McPike has developed with the Ahwatukee nurse’s dogs is one she said she will use with others who wish her services during the COVID-19 crisis.

“Since all I’m doing for her is letting the dogs out to go to the bathroom and get some exercise, I put on latex gloves before I enter her home. I take nothing into the house except my car key fob and that stays

in my pocket,” she explained.

“The only thing I touch are door knobs and the sliding glass door to get outside. I play ball with the dogs. They run and fetch it and bring it back so the gloves help with the dirt, dog slobber, etc.,” she laughed.

“I keep the gloves on until I leave, take them off when I’m outside, and dispose of them in their garbage can. When I get into my car, I sanitize my hands. I don’t leave notes, and I text her when I get home so she knows I was there. Once I get home, I leave my shoes outside and spray with Lysol and wash my hands really well. I follow the same procedure with dog walks - no notes left, only touching door knobs and then sanitizing them.”

Ahwatukee Foothills Pet & Home Sitters owner George Specht weathered the 2008

see PET SITTERS page 28

Ahwatukee pet sitter Barbara Drummond is finding some work, but much has dried up. (Special to AFN)

BUSINESS

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Beloved Ahwatukee yogurt shop may close

BY JANELLE MOLONY AFN Contributor

Y

oasis owners Morris and Emmie Howell have have announced that the local dessert favorite is facing the end of its run.

In a statement posted on their Facebook page, Emmie wrote, “To the Foothills community, I praise God for all of you. You have been so supportive and very generous through this time of crisis. May God bless you all a thousand folds and keep you safe and healthy.

“I have been praying for a miracle for us to get through this without closing the shop. As of now, we are still uncertain.”

The frozen yogurt shop has been trying to negotiate with the leasing company for lease assistance.

If the Safeway plaza owner at Desert Foothills Parkway and Chandler Boulevard and the Howells can’t reach a deal, the last swirl of the frozen delight will be served on May 5.

When the previous owners, Brian and

SANITIZE from page 26

she added, “and from there we decided to make it available to the public to help the community all around us.

“We thought with the recent world events, this was an opportunity to pivot from our previous business and begin something new.”

The Palmieris repurposed equipment they already had and put 24 employees in new roles.

Boasts a kill rate of nearly 100 percent, Santized Now envisions an almost limitless customer base – from churches to private homes, community and game centers to offices and small businesses and even stadiums.

The misting spray used to apply the chemical ”can get into places that are just too hard to clean yet are perfect places for the spread and growth of virus and bacteria.”

“A perfect example of spaces that are very difficult to treat yet potentially breed infection are backs of knobs, door handles, kitchen cabinet doors, the back inside of dishwasher pull handles, in and around counter tops,” she said.

She also noted most people don’t realize that most cleaning rags “just push and

Emmie and Morris Howell, right, and their children fear they may have to close Yoasis, which they bought in 2017.

(Yelp.com)

Sue McHugh, were looking to sell the yogurt business they built from scratch, they hoped the new owners would continue their reputation as strong supporters of the local needs in the community.

Sanitized Now includes, from left, Carmela Palmieri, brother Gino and dad Dominic Palmieri. (Special to AFN)

spread infection from surface to surface.”

The Palmieris see Sanitized Now as a much-needed company in what Carmela calls “a post-COVID world” because “sanitizing is an ongoing process.”

“Infection levels of virus and bacteria depend on the daily or weekly cleaning and sanitizing that businesses or residents do in their spaces,” she said. “Depending on the level of contaminants that keep coming in to the space and how many people

In 2017, the Howells – who live in Mesa – promised to do just that.

The Howell family supported local programs for youth and made Yoasis a safe haven for Cerritos Elementary and Al-

are in and out vary and make every space have a different rate of contamination.”

Thus, its service isn’t a onetime-fixes-all.

Sanitized Now takes “before and after” cultures so customers “know we are making every effort to really disinfect as much as possible.” younger brother Enzo, older “We have digital testing that measures the actual life energy of single cell organisms and we can check our effectiveness,” she explained. “It is important that our customers know we are here to help them start protocols of proper cleaning and disinfecting procedures.”

In accordance with its motto – “Keeping Spaces Safer For Everyone” – the company gives their customers a sticker and sign that declares “that they have created a SSS - Sanitized Safe Space” – similar to securi-

27

tadena Middle School kids to hang out after school.

The Howells also have donated their water on numerous occasions to local car wash fundraisers such as those held by the dance troupe at Innerlight Dance, also located in the plaza and scrambling to make ends meet with virtual dance lessons.

The Howells also freely loaned out their party room space to host story time sessions, chess clubs, Bible study groups and local business meetings.

In trying to adjust for quarantine and social distancing guidelines, the owners offered drive-up “cup o’ yo” specials.

But even drive-thru service might not be enough to save the shop.

Regardless of the financial risk, the restaurant is still fulfilling its promise to the McHughs.

The Howells have offered free yogurt bowls to those on the front lines at local hospitals and health clinics who continue fighting the virus and comforting those

see YOGURT page 29

ty alarm companies that give their clients warning signs.

“We date it for customers to see and track when they received service,” she said, adding that “helps to evaluate how often they may need more in-house processes or having us come on a regular schedule every few weeks or monthly, depending on activity in the space.”

At a time when businesses are itching to reopen, Carmela said, “They have to make new efforts to keep spaces safer for both their employees and their customers and they are trying to figure best practices.

“Using our services will help get infection in the home or business down to very low levels,” Carmela added. “Along with daily and weekly maintenance by the individuals – including a lot of hand washing, taking off shoes at the front door – we help to keep infection down to extremely low and safe levels.”

While closed on Sundays, Sanitized Now arranges visits to suit the customer’s schedule. Rates range from 8 cents to 20 cents per square foot.

Information: 602-763-7194, sanitzednow.com and facebook.com/sanitizednow

28

BUSINESS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

PET SITTERS from page 26

Great Recession a mere three years after establishing his business, but is now finding that downturn a mere shadow compared to what he’s experiencing now.

“Things went well early on building the business with multiple regular weekday customers but then the financial meltdown started in late 2008 and people lost jobs and homes, kids moved back home, and some even had to give up their pets,” Specht recalled.

“Some customers cut back, so business suffered for a few years,” he continued.

“My business seemed to evolve after that from weekday customers to professionals who travelled often.”

“This COVID-19 is definitely a challenging time. I started hearing about the virus from customers in late February with some wondering how their future work travel would be affected. The cancellations started March 15. My last check was March 14,” he said.

Specht said he’s checked with customers who had reserved his services in the summer.

“Some had to cancel to get refunds from cruises, but still wanted to continue to reserve their time with me. But who knows?

I’m still open for business as it’s a sociallydistanced business, but people are home and not going into work or traveling, so that’s ‘no bueno’ for me,” he added.

Specht said he attempts to keep busy, walking one customer’s dog “but that was for my sanity, not for money”.

George Specht walks a customer’s dog “for my own sanity,” but sees no business for weeks to come.

(Special to AFN)

Kate McPike has developed a detailed hygiene and social-distancing protocol for dealing with clients when some appear. (Special to AFN)

“I don’t have any essential worker clients right now, but I would certainly take them.

I did offer to pull weeds for free for essential workers, truck drivers and the elderly,” he said. “I also took the time to start a garden, so that’s some belief of the future.”

Barbara Drummond, an Ahwatukee resident who has been serving the East Valley for 20 years with her Home Alone Pet Sitting Services, said her business has been impacted but she’s continuing to work.

“I had several mid-day visits to clients’ homes to walk the dogs for a potty break, but because kids were now home from college and people working from home, some of my clients didn’t need my services,” she said.

“Then people started cancelling vacation plans in June as everyone was confused at this time. Now I’ve had a lot of cancellations into July as people are canceling trips, so therefore, no need for boarding their dogs or in-home care for their pets.”

After assessing the mounting losses to her business, she paused and uttered one word.

“Ouch,” she said.

She said she feels fortunate her business, that also offers boarding and daycare for all animals, is still open.

“Currently, I’ve been fortunate enough to have clients that still need their dogs cared for in the afternoons while they go to work.

Several of my clients are at home, but out of respect for my business, they still have me come for a daily visit,” she said.

“I also have a couple clients that are still paying what they’d usually pay for care even though they aren’t using my service, God bless them. I’m fortunate to have this

support, although it’s a quarter of what my business usually is.”

Like other dog sitters and pet care givers working during COVID-19, extraordinary precautions are taken.

“Dogs that visit for day care and/or boarding are wiped off with a sanitary dog wipe before returning to the owner.

Collars and leashes are also disinfected.

Anytime I enter a client’s home to care for their pets, I wear gloves and sanitize everything I touch,” she explained.

“I’m hoping to keep my business going, this is my passion and I love caring for animals. “ Vanessa Ryan heads Sit Stay Pet Sitters, and has a staff of six that serve Ahwatukee, Chandler and Tempe. All of them are Ahwatukee residents. She said her 11-yearold business, that normally boasts more than 800 clients in her service area, has been “drastically reduced” since COVID-19 restrictions were instituted.

“The only regular clients stops I’m still doing during the week are people considered ‘essential’ and all work in the medical field, but even those have been cut back as they also try to spend more time at home,” said Ryan, a 15-year Ahwatukee resident.

She is forthright when sharing how COVID-19 has affected her and her livelihood.

“When the cancellations first started rolling in, the only way to sum up the feeling is absolutely gutted,” she said.

“Anyone who owns their own business knows how much of your time, resources and heart you put into it. At one point I felt as though our business was being ripped away through no fault of our own.”

She said many of her clients are checking in to see that she’s okay, and letting

her know “when this turns around, they’ll start using us again.”

“There have also been people who have prepaid for services, or sent a tip over just to help us get through this time, and I’m so grateful,” said Ryan.

She said her parents, Washington state residents who are also self-employed, have been a great help by phone as they let her “talk it out, cry a bit.”

“Having a schedule that’s clear isn’t something I’m used to, and honestly, it is really depressing. And it’s been hard to stay positive not knowing when it will end,” she admitted. “My parents encouraged me to take this downtime and implement marketing ideas that I don’t usually have the time to do.”

One of those social media marketing ideas is her Pet Scavenger Hunt on Facebook.

“It’s a way to keep people engaged, checking in each day to see the new theme and then posting pictures of their pets in the comments. The winners each day receive either a pet-sitting credit, or we’ll make a donation to an animal nonprofit of their choosing because nonprofits are also struggling in times like these.”

Though the business owners admit they’re unsure of what the future holds, they are maintaining hope while working to stay afloat.

“How do I maintain hope?” said McPike.

“I send out emails to my clients and give them updates on the status of my business. Some clients I call and some I text. I want to make sure they are all OK and that their pets are as well. I want them to know I will be around when this is over and that my business will be here for them when they go on their next trip.

“And I know my business will be around, so I’m sure I pass that confidence on to my clients.”

Information

Vanessa Ryan feels “absolutely gutted” by the virus’ impact on her business. (Special to AFN)

All businesses have websites but can also be contacted directly.

K8’s Pet Care Kate McPike 480-718-5063.

Home Alone Pet Sitting Services Barbara Drummond 480-326-6918 Ahwatukee Foothills Pet & Home Sitters George Specht 480-529-5740 Sit Stay Pet Sitting Vanessa Ryan 253-223-7518

BUSINESS

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

YOGURT from page 27

who are sick.

Yoasis was operated for seven years by the McHughs, who moved on to a new life and career in late 2017 in Ohio.

“Manufacturing in Phoenix has gone through some rough times, and when [my husband] landed an awesome opportunity with Honeywell in Ohio and I was also able to find a position in Ohio, it only made sense to move since our children have now lives of their own,” said Sue, who planned to run an Einstein Bros. Bagels.

“We seriously thought about keeping the store and managing from a distance,” she said at the time. “However, we knew our best would not be given to our customers any longer and we just couldn’t do that.”

The Howells are settling in with their new business – and plan to resettle with it.

Morris back in 2017 told AFN that he and his wife weren’t looking for anything special when he decided he wanted to own a business “where no one could fire me but me.”

Previously employed in the semiconductor industry, Morris said he and his wife came across Yoasis.

“We weren’t looking for anything specific, but when we found this, we were really impressed. The previous owners did an excellent job,” he said.

While the opportunities in Ohio were too sweet for the McHughs to pass by, their departure was bittersweet in some ways.

“We started up the shop from our dreams,” Sue said. “We designed it, built it and poured our lives into it. Our mission was to have the best product and offer the best customer service, all while giving back to the community who supported us.

We did all that and have no regrets and will miss our baby dearly.”

“We did not have a special recipe, but we did have a dairy that we favored from California that really not many yogurts companies use here in Arizona,” she added.

Over the years, the McHughs not only won numerous awards, but raised $85,000 in donations for numerous causes in the community.

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SPORTS

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

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Thunder’s Gino Crump named 6A Coach of the Year

BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

A

whirlwind of a season ended in triumph for Desert Vista head basketball coach Gino Crump as he led the Thunder program to its first state championship since 2008.

On Wednesday, he was recognized for his accomplishments this past season as he was named the 2019-20 6A Boys Basketball Coach of the Year.

“With the season we had and with everything I went through, it’s surreal,” Crump said. “It was a season that I just, I can’t believe it happened. I’m speechless.

I can’t believe it.”

Crump was also named 6A Central Region Coach of the Year last week along with several other members of Desert Vista boys basketball program who received recognition.

Osasere Ighodaro, the only senior on the Thunder roster and Marquette signee, was

Desert Vista head boys basketball coach Gino Crump was named the 6A Conference Coach of the Year. (Chris Mortenson/AFN Contributor)

named the 6A Central Region Player of the Year and Wednesday, followed it up with recognition as the Conference Player of the Year. Ighodaro’s recognition came after a season in which he averaged 15.9 points, 10.6 rebounds and 4.4 blocks per game.

He also received first-team all-conference honors alongside sophomore guard Dasean Lecque, who helped Desert Vista

capture the state title in his first season since transferring from New York. Lecque averaged a team-high 18.4 points per game in his first season with the Thunder.

Lecque was also named first-team allregion, while guards Marcus Wady and Andrew King – who has since transferred to Phoenix Prep – received second-team honors. Malik Mack and Tayan Thompson both were recognized as honorable mentions.

“I knew we had a good group of kids that play the right way,” Crump said. “I have a whole group of kids that know they are talented enough to start on most teams in the state. Sometimes it can be difficult coaching that much talent on one team, but they all bought in.”

Desert Vista was met with adversity near the midway point of the season, as Crump was recommended for termination following his role in attempting to prevent a postgame altercation between a player and members of the St. Mary’s student section following a heated overtime win for

the Thunder. He was forced to stay away from his team for six games, in which the Desert Vista went 5-1 under the direction of interim head coach Mike Smith.

Crump was reinstated as head coach on Jan. 8 following an emergency meeting with Tempe Union High School District officials. His reinstatement came just over a week after a judge dismissed a restraining order filed by a Desert Vista parent against him.

With a feeling of “vindication” following his reinstatement, Crump vowed to do what he could to lead his team to a statechampionship win. On Tuesday, March 3 the Thunder beat rival Mountain Pointe in an all-Ahwatukee championship.

“We won a championship, I almost got fired and now I get coach of the year. It’s unbelievable,” Crump said. “Being vigilant, being faithful and doing everything for the right reasons, it all worked out in the end.

see CRUMP page 31

Grand Canyon University leads nation in e-sports

BY LORENZINO ESTRADA Cronkite News

H

idden within the exploding global esports movement lies Grand Canyon’s burgeoning program, headed by athletic esports coordinator Albert Lee. GCU has emerged as one of the premier universities in the country housing esports, offering a diverse set of games in the competitive scene, and being one of the first schools to offer scholarships for players.

The program also boasts one of the largest member groups in the nation.

“When esports just started in its conception on the university end, we only had 18 to 24 people,” John Kalua, GCU’s campus technology director said. “We didn’t have any faculty or staff support for esports at the time. That was 2016-2017.

“We went through a process where we hired Albert, built a facility, and put the right components in place on campus. In his first year, we went from 60 to about 500. Here we are in year two and he’s grown the program to over 800. It keeps going up and up.”

The program, established in 2018, started with about 10 members.

Sean Shannon, GCU’s League of Legends varsity coach, saw a simple reason for the growth of the program when he joined in early 2020.

“I was aware of how good they were but I didn’t know how backed they were by the university,” Shannon said.

Lee came to Grand Canyon after studying at Georgia Tech, where he was president of esports, as well as Tespa chapter founder and lead. Having the option of taking an engineering job after graduation with his degree in communication and

Since joining Grand Canyon University in 2018, Albert Lee has created a premier esports program that contains close to 1,000 members. (Reno Del Toro/Cronkite News)

media studies, Lee instead elected to follow his love of esports.

“It is my passion to connect students. It’s not just about video gaming even though that is a huge plus,” Lee said. “It’s about

connecting the shared experience and I wanted to pursue that.”

Now, GCU’s esports program is the largest student organization on campus, supporting 124 students across 20 competitive teams, and registering 750 unique students every school year.

The program is a major recruiting tool, with 39 percent of incoming freshmen citing the esports program as a reason for enrolling in the university, Lee said.

“I came into the role to help lead the initiative because right now in the collegiate esports space, it’s very much open ended,” Lee said. “What I like to say is it’s the wild west right now. It’s comparable to the early days of American football when there were no rules or regulations. We’re on the brink of something big here.”

The biggest draw for GCU’s esports pro-

see ESPORTS page 31

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

CRUMP from page 30

Desert Vista senior Osasere Ighodaro was named 6A Conference Player of the Year after helping lead the Thunder to a state championship. (Chris Mortenson/AFN

Contributor)

That’s how I look at it.”

To the surprise of many, none of Mountain Pointe’s players received all-conference recognition despite playing for the state title for the second time in three years.

Junior guard Jason Kimbrough and forward Zereoue Williams received second-team all-region honors, while freshman guard Mark Brown and sophomore guard Anthony Jamarillo were honorable mentions.

31

ESPORTS from page 30

gram is its large esports arena, outfitted with more than 70 gaming PCs, along with a space for console players and a lounge to watch tournaments and study game play.

A stage with gaming setups is available for competitive teams when playing tournaments.

The arena went through renovations and reopened in late 2019. Despite the renovations, the continued membership of current and prospective students will require the program to expand once again soon.

“We also have a capacity limit in our facility that can manage so many club members and it’ll get to that point where our success stories and club membership will usually lead to building more facilities,” Kuala said. “We’re going to max out our capacity real quick.”

With the success of the GCU’s esports program, Lee hopes it can be a shining example for other colleges that are looking to create similar programs and allocate resources.

“If schools want to view it as important, then it’s as important as their focus on recruitment for the future,” Lee said. “Esports is definitely only going to rise in popularity.

fessional basketball players, NASCAR and FIFA players who are playing online tournaments on Twitch. I think it’s cool because it not only validates the job hemisphere but it validates the kids who are just doing it as a hobby or seeing if they want to do it in the future.”

GCU also continues to grow Grand Canyon’s esports arena is one of the top collegiate facilities in the membership and holds tournacountry. (Tanner Puckett/Cronkite News) ments for local high school playThe younger generations got smartphones, ers who can earn small scholarships.

Competitively, GCU esports offers scholthey all have consoles and PCs. “Everything has become so intertwined arships for players on both varsity teams online that if you’re not committing re- for “Overwatch” and “League of Legends.” sources to at least researching into es- In 2018, GCU earned a spot in the quarterports or engaging your students who are finals of the 2019 “Overwatch Collegiate already using technology, you’re missing Championship.” out on a large chunk of what could be the It’s one of the most efficient and univernext recruiting bubble.” sity-backed programs in all of collegiate The growth of esports is evident, with esports, but Lee said he will continue to more than $1 billion in market revenue build GCU esports. in 2019, Forbes reported. In 2019, there “Right now, we’ve been established as were 253 million occasional viewers and one of the pioneers in Arizona and the 201 million frequent viewers watching West Coast in terms of esports programs,” their favorite games around the world.

Lee said. “We want to be a forerunner, that “I think we’re seeing it across the na- campus driving forward what esports can tion,” Shannon said. “We’re seeing pro- be at the collegiate level.”

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

King Crossword

1 Resided 6 Things 11 Demosthenes or Cicero 12 Cancel out 14 Ubiquitous fastener 15 Early spring bloom 16 Feedbag tidbit 17 -- the manger 19 Owns 20 Press 22 Ballet step 23 -- song (cheaply) 24 Force measures 26 Decorum 28 Quite some time 30 Actor Stephen 31 Went sour 35 Contents of some trays 39 Responsibility 40 Court 42 Story 43 Donkey 44 Impostor 46 Sudden turn 47 Traditional usage 49 Love apple 51 Medical prioritization 52 Portuguese island group 53 Stationery brand 54 Is inclined (to)

36 Risk 37 Cheers up 38 Some lilies 41 Lash -- (berate)

44 Comic strip possum 45 Nap 48 Body art, for short 50 Calendar abbr.

Sudoku

DOWN

1 Cheerless 2 “The Compleat Angler” author 3 And so on (Abbr.)

4 Tennyson title 5 Cavalry unit 6 Canine’s neighbor 7 Sea bird 8 Id counterpart 9 He-men 10 George Washington portraitist 11 Egg-shaped 13 English composition 18 Leg, slangily 21 Must have 23 Banquet 25 Scale member 27 Part of the Justice Dept.

29 Cronkite, Rather, et al.

31 Work together 32 Doubtful 33 Neighbor of Georgia 34 Female deer

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APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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Obituaries Louise Kohler

Mesa, AZ – Louise Kohler, age 89, of Mesa, passed away at home on Monday, April 13, 2020.

She was born in Milwaukee, WI, June 16, 1930, the daughter of Adolph and Anna (Kley) Gruning.

Louise attended St. Anne’s Grade School and Mercy High School. After high school she went to work at the WI Bell Telephone Company and then became a stay at home mother. Later, after moving to Mequon, WI, she worked at Red Owl Supermarket as a cashier and had various other positions. She also enjoyed her semi-retirement position, after moving to Scottsdale, AZ, as product marketer.

Louise was a Christian woman, who loved being with family and friends. She hosted many large gatherings and welcomed all into her home. Louise loved to knit and play cards, and more recently enjoyed bingo.

Louise is survived by her husband Arthur, son Jeffery (Therese) Kohler, daughter Julie (Bill) Cox, brother Frank (Sandy) Gruning, sister-in-law Janice (Dick) Heimerl, brotherin-law Frank Kubinski; grandchildren: Jeffery (Kate) Kohler, Michelle Washington, Christopher (Monica) Kohler, Kathleen Cox, Patrick Kohler and Susan Kubinski Sexton (niece, but like a grandchild); great grandchildren: Vivian, William, Benjamin, and James Kohler, Arthur, Annie and Olivia Washington, and Wesley Cox; as well as nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews; and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Ruth Gruning Kubinski.

In lieu of plants, flowers or other gifts, the family suggests contributions be made in Louise’s honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).

The family extends their thanks to the wonderful people at Complete Hospice and Visiting Angels East Valley for their care of all of us during the past two weeks.

A Mass of Catholic Burial will be held when restrictions have been lifted and gatherings and travel are deemed safe.

Matt 25:21 ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!’

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- Ahw Resident Since 1987 -

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

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

LLC

• Drywall Repair • Bathroom Remodeling • Home Renovations

• Electrical Repair • Plumbing Repair • Dry rot and termite damage repair

GENERAL CONTRACTOR / HANDYMAN SERVICES SERVING THE ENTIRE VALLEY

All Estimates are Free • Call:

520.508.1420

www.husbands2go.com

Licensed, Bonded & Insured • ROC#317949 Ask me about FREE water testing!

No Job Too Small!

Senior Discounts!

Flooring

MALDONADO HOME REPAIR SERVICES CALL DOUG

Home Remodeling

AND so much more!

Handyman

C. READ & SON ELECTRIC

Home Improvement

Visit our website!

Landlord and Homeowner Property Services

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

• FREE ESTIMATES •

Electrical Services

Jaden Sydney Associates.com

Same Day Service Repair/Install All Major Brands

Not a licensed

contractor Jim 480.593.0506 Ablehandyman2009@gmail.com

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor

Contractors

Able Handyman Service LLC

Paint

“No Job Too Small Man!”

NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR

34

602-989-8255 | floors4youaz.com

BEFORE AFTER

During these unprecedented times, Gainey Flooring gives thanks all the EMS teams, nurses, doctors, food providers and drivers working tirelessly on the front lines to protect us.

As a designated essential business during the pandemic, we pledge & observe safe practices while in your home.

• We avoid being within 6 feet of another person • Never in any other area of your home!

• We will clean the area each day before leaving • If any employee is sick, they will not come to work and be in your home.

In the spirit of getting our economy back on track. We remain positive during these painful times. WE will get through this together. GFS remains very committed to providing you with the very best & safest service possible at this time.

Sincere Regards, Bruce

ROC #296456 & ROC #297719 “Licensed-Bonded -Insured”

CLASSIFIEDS

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Home Improvement REMODEL CONTRACTOR

Landscape/ Maintenance Juan Hernandez

TREE

Plans / Additions, Patios New Doors, Windows Lowest Price in Town!

R. Child Lic#216115, Class BO3 Bonded-Insured-Ref's

TRIMMING

480-215-3373

SPRINKLER

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Place your ad online!

Call 480-898-6465

25 Years exp (480) 720-3840

Juan Hernandez

Drip/Install/Repair & Tune ups!

Not a licensed contractor

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

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

Landscape Design/Installation

CDS LANDSCAPING

Irrigation Systems & Outdoor Lighting C - Caring alls Repairs & Instuse.

D - Dedicated for long term ing S - Service No Landscap

LANDSCAPING

.

Maintenance

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

Landscape/Maintenance

Landscape/Maintenance

RAMON LANDSCAPING SERVICES

Specials

I could help you have your palm trees and other trees trimmed by giving you a reasonable and better price than the others.

Irrigation Repair & New Installation Maintenance Bi-Weekly • Monthly Yard Clean-ups • Storm Damage • Palm & Tree Trimming Tree Removal • Landscape Lighting Installation & Repair Landscape Design • Install Winter Grass

Responsible • 100% Guaranteed Ask for Ramon Not a

Licensed Contractor

480-217-0407

480-580-4419

15 + Yrs Exp! All English Speaking Crew

SONORAN LAWN

480-745-5230

Call for a FREE consultation and Estimate To learn more about us, view our photo gallery at: ShadeTreeLandscapes.com

480-730-1074

Bonded/Insured/Licensed • ROC #225923

Not a licensed contractor

Ahw. Res - 30 yrs Exp Free Estimates.

Call Pat (480) 343-0562

Starting @ $60/Month!

• One Month Free Service • Licensed, Bonded Insured for your protection.

ROC# 186443 • BONDED

480.844.9765

• Call or Text for a Free Quote

kjelandscape.com • ROC#281191

480-586-8445

SPRING LAWN GREEN-UP?

Irrigation Repair Services Inc. 480-940-8196 theplugman.com

Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician

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

Call Lance White

480.721.4146 www.irsaz.com

ROC# 256752

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

$25 per visit.

Install/Design We do it all!

Free Estimates 7 Days a Week!

ROC 282663 * BONDED * INSURED YOUR LAWN EXPERT SINCE 1995

Custom Design and Renovation turning old to new

Starting as low as

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Interior, Exterior House Painting.

Stucco Patching.

Gate/Front Door Refinishing.

Quality work/Materials Free Estimate Ignacio 480-961-5093 602-571-9015 ROC #189850 Bond/Ins'd

Complete Lawn Service & Weed Control

Affordable | Paver Specialists All phases of landscape installation.

Plants, cacti, sod, sprinklers, granite, concrete, brick, Kool-deck, lighting and more!

FERTILIZER PROGRAMS * SOIL TESTING * LAWN SERVICE

The Possibilities are Endless

Foothills Touch Landscapes LLC Lawn care/Maint.

Landscape/Maintenance

New & Re-Do Design and Installation

FREE LAWN WEED CONTROL TREATMENT WITH CORE AERATION

Serving the Valley for over 28 years

Painting

Is your lawn ready for the holidays?

Call for a clean up.

Arizona Specialty Landscape

david@swo-of-artworks.com Owner: David “Ray” Smith

Lawn Mowing Starts At $40 Full Service Starts At $70

Landscape/ Maintenance

35

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

Let’s get your Watering System working again!

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

480.295.2279 Referred out of Ewing Irrigation Not a licensed contractor.

D&L SPRINKLER SERVICE

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED!

Landscape Lighting

Painting

Wi-Fi Irrigation & Lighting timers Misting Systems

MOST REPAIRS

UNDER $100 We Do Installs!

Warranty On All Work dandlsprinklerservice.com

602.329.3396 Not a Licensed Contractor

“We get your house looking top notch!”

480.345.1800

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

★ Elastomaric Roof Coating ★ Epoxy Floors ★ Small Job Specialist

Scott Mewborn, Owner 480-818-1789 ROC 304267 • Licenced & Bonded

License #ROC 298736

36

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

Painting

Painting SUN TECH

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

PAINTING INC.

Serving Ahwatukee Since 1987 Interior / Exterior

• High Quality Materials & Workmanship • Customer Satisfaction Free Est imates • Countless References • Carpentry Services Now Available

Family Owned • Free Estimates

ROC#309706

The Valley’s Premier Painters Proudly Serving Ahwatukee for 15 Years!

Family Owned & Operated

Plumbing

AHWATUKEE SPECIAL

East Valley PAINTERS

$

Off 40work done *Any

Voted #1

Residential • Commercial

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

• Best Painters EVER! • Epoxy Floors & Concrete Coatings • Interior & Exterior “Professional, Punctual & Clean”

Plumbing

10% OFF

ACP is 100% Veteran Owned

SERVICE • REPAIR • REPLACEMENT

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality

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

We offer personalized service for our customers.

We use the best materials that we can find.

Free Estimates!

Home of the 10-Year Warranty!

www.AcpPaintingllc.com

480-688-4770

Licensed - Bonded - Insured ROC 290242

FREE ESTIMATES • CALL TODAY!

(480)785-6323

Not a licensed contractor

602.625.0599 ROC #155380

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

480-338-4011

Jose Dominguez Painting & Drywall SEE OUR AD IN DRYWALL! Quick Response to your Call!

15 Years Exp 480-266-4589

Visit us at Suntechpaintingaz.com or view our video promo at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GM5pbvpZJlg

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

Plumbing

Painting

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

Now Accepting all major credit cards

Plumbing

Owned and Operated

by Rod Lampert Ahwatukee Resident Serving Ahwatukee for over 25 years

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

(480)

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • ROC 189848

PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating & Air

PLUMBING $35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!

A+ RATED

We Repair or Install ROC # 272721

AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured

704.5422

(480)

279-4155

4995

$

DRAIN CLEANING

$

GARBAGE DISPOSAL NEW

Water Heaters $

799

FREE SERVICE CALLS

189 $

($85 Value)

A/C UNITS

3,995!

starting at

480-405-7099

(advertised offers cannot be combined)

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

Thank you Mesa for Voting us #1

Experience, Service and Price

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

FREE ESTIMATES

ItsJustPlumbSmart.com

CLASSIFIEDS

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Pool Service / Repair

Pool Service / Repair

Roofing

Filter Cleaning!

Monthly Service & Repairs Available

Flat and Foam Roof Experts! desertsandscontracting.com FLAT ROOFS | SHINGLES | TEAR OFFS | NEW ROOFS | REPAIRS TILE UNDERLAYMENT | TILE REPAIR | LEADERS | COPPER ALUMINUM COATINGS | GUTTERS | SKYLIGHTS

10% OFF COMPLETE UNDERLAYMENT

Email Your Job Post to:

602-546-POOL 7 6 6 5

Commercial & Residential Family Owned & Operated AZROC #283571 | CONTRACTOR LIC. AZROC #312804 CLASS CR4 | FULLY INSURED

class@times publications.com

www.barefootpoolman.com See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook

FREE ESTIMATES 602-736-3019

1st Month of Service FREE

or Call 480

Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

Call Now!

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

CLR Pool Service LLC

Call me, Howard:

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

480.231.9651

Excellent Service...

First time, Every time!

AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member

Juan Hernandez

Pavers • Concrete • Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

Charles Rock - Ahwatukee Resident

480.399.ROCK (7625)

PPebbleOcracking, O L Plaster R Epeeling, P ARebar IR

charles@clrpoolservice.com

www.clrpoolservice.com

showing, Pool Light out? I CAN HELP!

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

Your newspaper.

Your community.

Your planet.

Call Juan at

480-720-3840

Please recycle me.

Not a licensed contractor.

Put Our Experience to Work for You!

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

NO INTEREST NO PAYMENTS

•

OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE REMODELING HOMES

Sell Your Stuff!

Call Classifieds Today!

480.898.6465

inexroofing.com Call for your FREE Roof Evaluation

CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Over 30 Years of Experience Family Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers!

480-446-7663

We also offer Energy Efficient Window Replacement

12

ABA KITCHEN WINDOWS BATHROOMS

480-706-1453

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

Valley Wide Service

MONTHS

HOME REMODELING

Serving The Valley Since 1996

Spencer 4 HIRE ROOFING

Remodeling

Spring into Summer with a NEW Kitchen, Bathroom or Windows

Let us show you the IN-EX Difference!

Over 30 yrs. Experience

Not a licensed contractor.

•

on qualifying complete roof replacements

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

Pool Service / Repair

602-938-7575 $ 1000 OFF when you show this ad

For a limited time

898-6465

www.abahomeremodeling.com

Roofing

TILE ROOFING SPECIALISTS

???

People are looking in the Classifieds Every day!

$25 OFF

37

25 $500

$

10% OFF

Gift card to Lowe’s with Quote off project

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

480.988.1903 BONDED & INSURED • ROC#271056

with this ad

Ahwatukee’s Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

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

Licensed • Bonded • Insured ROC # 269218

38

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020

Roofing

Roofing

Family Owned & Operated for over 30 years

Roofing The Most Detailed Roofer in the State

Family Operated by 3 Generations of Roofers! We have a “Spencer” on every job

TK

®

and every step of the way.

ROC #152111

Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC

Quality Repairs & Re-Roofs Complimentary & Honest Estimates

Roofs Done Right...The FIRST Time!

Call our office today!

15-Year Workmanship Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems

480-460-7602 Ask us about our discount for all Military and First Responders!

www.porterroofinginc.com

www.timklineroofing.com

480-446-7663

480-357-2463

FREE Estim a and written te proposal

R.O.C. #156979 K-42 • Licensed, Bonded and Insured

SEEING DOUBLE - 6 CHANGES

Ahwatukee’s Premier Tile, Shingle & Foam Roofer!

Spring brings lots of changes. Find 6 in the gardens.

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

Licensed, Bonded, Insured

PHILLIPS ROOFING LLC Member of ABM

Licensed • Bonded • Insured ROC 223367

Valleywide

CR 42 DUAL

623-873-1626 Your leaks stop here!

New Roofs, Repairs, Coatings, Flat Roof, Hot Mopping & Patching & Total Rubber Roof Systems

FREE ESTIMATES & MONSOON SPECIALS

SAME DAY SERVICE phillipsroofingaz.com phillipsroofing@cox.net

30 Years Experience References Available Licensed Bonded Insured ROC 286561

Senior & Military Discounts

Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online!

Classifieds 480-898-6465

480-280-0390

CB

ANSWERS: 1. Wheel barrel is missing, 2. there is a wheel in the dirt on the left, 3. girl’s watering can is now a crock pot, 4. path is now a snake, 5. small tree in girl’s hand is now a stalk of celery, 6. lower right dirt pile has changed into a sea turtle.

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

SHARE WITH THE WORLD! Place a Birth, Anniversary, Wedding Announcement, In Memoriam, Obituary or any life event in this paper today!

Call us for details.

class@timespublications.com or call 480-898-6465

APRIL 22, 2020 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

39

palmabrisa.com

NOW SELLING

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

• Modern resort-style gated community with stately palms

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

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

ERIC WILLIAMS

480-641-1800

TERRY LENTS

© Copyright 2019 Blandford Homes, LLC. No offer to sell or lease may be made prior to issuance of Final Arizona Subdivision Public Report.

Offer, terms, and availability subject to change without prior notice. Renderings are artist’s conceptions and remain subject to modification without notice.

40

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | APRIL 22, 2020