Ahwatukee Foothills News - May 3, 2017

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Ignoring Ahwatukee, mayor sees freeway as West Valley bonanza

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Many Ahwatukee homeowners may see the South Mountain Freeway as a threat to their quality of life, but Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton sees it as a gateway to a new Silicon Valley in the city’s western region.

In his annual State of the City address, Stanton on April 25 said, “It’s time for us to do more in the West Valley” – and said the controversial freeway would be the ticket.

“I know that in an economy with real opportunity for everyone, prosperity and good jobs can’t be limited to only certain

parts of our region,” he said. “It’s time for us to do more in the West Valley, in particular. Nearly half of the West Valley workforce commutes to other parts of the Valley each day. That’s a lot of talent, and a lot of valuable time wasted behind the wheel.

“The new 202 Freeway is under construction, and that offers us a rare opportunity to create jobs in a vast new employment corridor,” he continued, adding:

“We’re not going to let it pass us by. We are creating the South Mountain Technology Corridor near the freeway

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Arizona’s three universities no longer form a pipeline of teachers for the state’s public schools. Half the freshmen in the state’s university system come from only 11 percent of Arizona’s high schools. Arizona’s expanded school voucher system did not include expanded oversight.

Those disclosures came in remarks by three educators to the Chandler Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee and business owners and executives last week.

The presentations by Kyrene School Superintendent Jan Vesely, state Board of Regents President Eileen Klein and state school Superintendent Diane Douglas on April 28, came on the eve of a big week for the state Legislature and education in Arizona.

Lawmakers are hoping to wrap up their session this week by completing budget negotiations with the chief topic being education – particularly more money for K-12 teachers and a $1 billion bond issue for research and infrastructure for the three universities.

“Much of the focus this week will center on our K-12 schools, particularly raising salaries for our teachers,” Ahwatukee Sen. Sean Bowie told constituents Monday. “This is shaping up to be the most important policy discussion of the week – Governor Ducey’s original proposal called for a 0.4 percent increase for the upcoming year.”

“We are losing some of our best teachers we have because they simply can’t afford to keep teaching – many can make more money in different professions, and that’s a

(Lauren Clark/Special for AFN)

Seven-year-old Avery Gattuso of Ahwatukee, smiling next to her mother Jessica Gattuso, has a rare autoimmune disorder that caused her to lose all her hair. Avery doesn’t let that keep her down, and the Ahwatukee girl’s father launched an education campaign to explain the disorder to children.

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Centenarian credits hard work for her longevity

If there’s one regret that Dorothy Stephens had as she was about to turn 100, it was this: She can’t work anymore.

“I haven’t retired yet,” said Stephens, a patient at La Estancia Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ahwatukee.

Born on a reservation in Oklahoma on April 29, 1917, she grew up in Topeka, Kansas, then spent 15 years in Los Angeles working as a radiologist.

She recalled moving to Phoenix at some point, though it wasn’t clear when, and worked for 15 years as an elevator operator in a Sears department store.

Throughout an interview, she frequently returned to the topic of work.

Asked the secret to her longevity, Stephens replied quickly:

“Taking care of myself and working. If you work, you have to take care of yourself and you don’t have time to get into trouble.”

Stephens also recalled how she always carried a $100 bill in case of emergencies and lamented how “parents don’t tell their kids enough to save money.”

“Uncle Sam can send me to tell them,” she added. “I can give them a little bit of my know-how.”

At one point, she reached under her pillow and pulled out several old black-and-white photos, one of her as a baby and one of her as a young woman.

“I didn’t have wrinkles anywhere,” she said wistfully, recalling how she lived in a little red brick house that she and her late husband bought for $10,000. Now, she said, she’d like to get a condo.

If there was anything that concerned her, she said, “I’m very afraid of storms.”

But safe in her room at La Estancia, she was looking forward to a party that the staff was going to throw for her birthday. She has no children.

Asked how she intended to celebrate, she said she planned to listen to music from the 1950s and have lemon cake and vanilla ice cream.

(Kim Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Dorothy Stephens celebrated her 100th birthday April 28 at La Estancia Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Ahwatukee, where she is a patient.

Close-out Specials!!

Christina Seideman graduates from Pepperdine

Christina Anne Seideman of Ahwatukee graduated over the weekend from Pepperdine University summa cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in international studies and a minor in Hispanic Studies. She also earned a certificate in conflict management from the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine’s Law School. A Regents’ Scholar and 2013 Desert Vista High School graduate, she studied in Buenos Aires, Argentina, her sophomore year to become fluent in Spanish, according to her mother, Miffie Seideman. Her research paper, titled “The Palermo Protocol: Why It Has Been Ineffective in Reducing Human Sex Trafficking,” was published in Pepperdine’s undergraduate peer-reviewed research journal. She then became an editor for this journal, serving as the editor-in-chief.

Seideman also participated on Pepperdine’s Model United Nations team, winning awards for best delegate and outstanding position paper awards, was a member of the university’s Regents’ Scholars Student Board, and belonged to Pepperdine’s American Enterprise Institute Executive Council. Her volunteer work has included serving at the Voices of Refugees resettlement center in Anaheim, California; Back2Back Ministries in Monterrey, Mexico; and numerous service trips to build homes and translate in an impoverished area of Puerto Peñasco, Mexico. She interned in Washington, D.C., for the Institutional Religious Freedom Alliance and was a field organizer for Sen. John McCain’s 2016 re-election campaign. She is moving to Washington to pursue a career in foreign policy and politics.

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Tempe Union officials ponder going into the real estate business

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Tempe Union High School District would enter a long-term arrangement with one or more developers under three options being considered for getting revenue from vacant land it owns in Chandler.

The options came under review by governing board members at a recent meeting as they pondered the sale of a 49acre parcel at Kyrene Road and the Loop 202 Santan Freeway.

No decision has yet been made on what to do with the site, which the district bought in 1994 for a high school that ultimately wasn’t built.

The Chandler parcel is one of two district-owned sites that Tempe Union officials are reviewing for generating millions of dollars in revenue.

The other, a 63-acre site in Ahwatukee with the potential for the construction of 178 higher-end homes, is already on the market. One final disposition of that land also could involve a long-term relationship between the district and whatever developer buys the site.

A real estate advisor hired by the district said the Ahwatukee land could generate well over $10 million for the district.

The three options on the Chandler site that would make the district a landlord or a developer’s partner could give the district a steady revenue stream for many years, an advisor told the board.

But they provoked one board member to wonder if the district’s quest for more money could put it into territory that has nothing to do with education.

“I’m thinking maybe that’s not what school districts do. This is not the job we hired you to do,” board Vice President Michelle Helm told Superintendent Kenneth Baca at one point.

Helm’s concern – which she expressed several times during the April 19 meeting – came after Baca himself admitted that with one option, “we have to go into the business of being a landlord.”

Helm was particularly concerned about an option that would have the district exchange the vacant land for a large commercial building.

“I never thought this was something a school district would do or could do,” Helm said.

The exchange would then enable the district to collect rent indefinitely –

and also be responsible for fixing any problems involving the building.

“I’m out of my league,” Helm complained. “An exchange and all that is involved in it is not something I foresee our voters thinking we were going to be doing as a school district. That concerns me … the exchange isn’t something I’m interested in.”

The only two other board members at the meeting – President DeeAnne McClenahan and Brandon Schmoll –disagreed.

“I don’t want to exclude any offer before we have any offers,” said Schmoll. “It’s hard to make decisions before you know what the offers are going to be.”

McClenahan noted that voters last November overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure that gave the district permission to sell the Chandler and the Ahwatukee parcels.

That measure gave the district carte blanche in deciding what to do with both parcels.

“I would say when we went out for this vote, we were sitting here talking about a partnership that would look a lot like this … a long-term ownership of an income-producing property. I think that when we went out to the voters, that’s where our heads were at. I don’t think the voters would be surprised if they were at our meetings,” she said.

Karsten Peterson of the real estate company JLL outlined five options for getting money out of the site.

Chandler city government looms as a possible player in all of them because it has a 22-year lease on an adjacent parcel that also belongs to the district. The city is leasing it for $1 a year and has options to renew the lease for an additional 30 years.

With or without the park, the site is coveted by developers.

“Since I’ve been here, we always have a call annually – more than one sometimes” about the site, Baca told the board, saying interest in it was “very high.”

Peterson said the easiest, least risky option for disposing of the land would be an outright bulk sale, with the city still holding on to the park.

“Chandler might be interested in buying it because there is not much creation land in that area,” Baca said.

Although Peterson did not give an estimate on how much money an outright

sale might yield, he said two options likely would generate more cash for the district – and pose more risk to the district. One option would be to divide the parcel and sell it piecemeal, possibly for apartments, office buildings and retail establishments.

Such a “product-specific offering” would “generate the highest value for the property” and “generate the largest number of bidders,” Peterson said. Besides an exchange, the other two options would involve entering into ease agreements with a developer.

One would involve a joint venture, which Peterson acknowledge “leaves a bad taste in the mouths of many” district officials.

That option also would offer a developer the best of all worlds: The land would be tax-free since it would remain in the district’s name, and the district “wouldn’t have a lot of participation in the grand scheme of the project” because all decision and control would be in the developer’s hands, Peterson said.

The fifth option would involve leasing the land – which Peterson said would be risky for the district because it might not

attract much interest from developers.

The piecemeal sale of the land prompted some officials to express concern that it would be “pushing decisions onto future boards and administrations.”

And while two board members remained open to exchanging the land for a fully equipped building, Baca cautioned, “I don’t know the administration would ever recommend it. If we do trade for a building, we assume everything that happens to that building.”

In the end, even McClenahan concurred that all the options carry big question marks, though she also said she was leaning toward a piecemeal sale of the site. “We need to give some directions,” she said. “There are a lot of different ideas.”

Arash of motor vehicle break-ins –and several garage burglaries – in Lakewood has prompted Phoenix police to remind Ahwatukee residents to take some precautions.

Six burglaries from vehicles parked around Wildwood and Tanglewood drives and Frye Road were reported on Monday from overnight Sunday, said police spokesman Sgt. Jonathan Howard.

“It’s apparent that (they) occurred overnight in the Lakewood area and were reported in the morning as residents discovered that their vehicles had been broken into,” said Howard, who noted the burglaries “occurred in close proximity to one another.”

In at least two incidents, the thieves found remote openers in the vehicles and sued them to break into garages, resulting

Motor vehicle burglaries hit Lakewood, prompt warning Valley Metro says Trump cuts could hurt rail expansion

BY ARREN KIMBEL-SANNIT Cronkite News

Transportation Department budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration could threaten Valley rail projects in which the federal government has already invested $75 million, the head of Valley Metro said.

CEO Scott Smith joined other public transit officials who said the proposed cuts could also hobble the economic development that often accompanies investments in transit infrastructure.

“We are now close to $9 billion in real estate activity within a half-mile radius of the light rail corridor in just eight years,” Smith said.

But Smith said proposed rollbacks of the Federal Transit Authority Capital Investment Program and other federal grants in the Trump budget could jeopardize expansions on the outer reaches of the light rail system and the construction of a streetcar system in Tempe.

Nationally, the cuts could put 800,000 jobs at risk, put $90 billion in economic output in the balance and halt progress on 50 transit programs with decades of planning and tens of billions of dollars

in the theft of a motorized scooter and other valuables.

Howard said residents should not only lock their vehicles if they are parked on the street or in a driveway overnight, but should also make sure no valuables are visible on the seats.

He also said residents should make a habit of taking garage door openers with them into the house.

Police also are reminding residents not to leave their garage doors open when they are inside the house, since this is a common entryway for thieves to break into homes themselves and cause the loss of even more valuable possessions.

The burglaries in Lakewood were reported in the 3900 block of Frye Road, the 3900 block of Wildwood and the 3800 block of Tanglewood.

“Additional reports are likely as more incidents are discovered,” Howard said.

already invested, said Dick White, president of the American Public Transportation Association.

“I’m not terribly surprised that they don’t like (the cuts),” said Michael Sargent, an policy analyst with the Heritage Foundation. “Free money is incredibly popular. Especially when it comes to capital investment grants, you’d be hard-pressed to find a transportation program that provides worse incentives for localities.”

He said federal grants encourage local governments to come up with “flashy,” wasteful systems that leave cities on the hook for future maintenance.

Most federally funded transit systems are flat-out unnecessary, Sargent said. The ones that are necessary often exceed budget, fail to meet projected ridership and have extra costs because of conditions that come with federal money, like requiring American-made materials.

Federal funding also promotes rail systems, which Sargent said are more expensive than other transit options.

Smith, a Republican and a former Mesa mayor, said federal investment generally represents the minority of funding for a project.

AFN News Staff

Foothills

Dobson Ranch – Regency Estates

Arizona eliminating state standards for public school teaching

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

Gov. Doug Ducey is defending controversial legislation he sought – and signed Tuesday –to allow more people without formal teacher training to lead a public school classroom.

Existing laws already allow people who have expertise in science, technology, engineering or math to teach. SB 1042 would open it up to anyone who has “expertise in a content area or subject matter.’’

More significant, it exempts the person from having to take a test of professional proficiency, leaving much of the decision on who is qualified up to local school superintendents rather than the state Department of Education.

It is that provision that has upset foes who have said simply being knowledgeable in an academic area does not mean an ability to actually teach.

“We have a teacher shortage in the state of Arizona,’’ Ducey said. “We’ve got some very high-qualified, educated people in our community that have expressed interest in teaching.’’

But Ducey sidestepped a question of whether he, as an Arizona State University

graduate, is qualified to teach a thirdgrade class.

“This isn’t about me or what I’m qualified to do,’’ Ducey responded. “I want to help bring the best qualified people, more of the best possible people into our classrooms.’’

His comments came just hours after the state House gave final approval to the legislation on a 33-22 margin. It had won Senate approval a day earlier.

Among the provisions, school superintendents would be able to create what amounts to their own certification process, subject only to an avowal that the person “has made satisfactory progress and achievement with students.’’

Ducey said that makes sense given the need for more teachers to leave the decisions to local officials. He said that’s already the case at charter schools, which are public schools that can be run as forprofit or nonprofit operations.

“They’re able to choose teachers and hire teachers whether they have the traditional training or not,’’ the governor said. “I think it’s good policy.’’

If Ducey signs the measure, it will be over the objections of fellow Republican Diane Douglas, the state superintendent of public instruction.

“In my opinion, lowering the standards

Help for Addy and her family

for new teachers is not the way to correct the problem,’’ she said.

Douglas said there already are “currently a variety of ways teachers can make their way into the classroom.’’ And she said there’s nothing wrong with looking for ways to streamline the process.

“However, those programs should ensure that teacher candidates are prepared to manage a classroom, deliver instruction, and have mastered their subject area,’’ Douglas said.

And Douglas said the focus should be to increase teacher pay “to help retain and attract the best candidates.’’

That stance was echoed during the House vote by Rep. Kirsten Engel, D-Tucson. She cited 2014 data that said 95,000 Arizonans were certified to teach but just 52,000 were in the classroom.

“So, there are thousands, tens of thousands of teachers that have certification, that want to be teachers, that went to school, that learned how to teach a classroom, that learned how to interact with our students, and just are not teaching because we make it an impossible job,’’ Engel said.

She said that’s not just about pay but other monetary issues like having overcrowded classrooms.

But Rep. Michelle Udall, R-Mesa, who said she just completed a teacher education program, said she’s not convinced that training is the best or only way to get qualified people into the classroom.

“I didn’t have to take any child psychology classes or any child development classes,’’ she said. And Udall, who said her emphasis is on teaching math, did not take a single course on teaching that subject.

“I took about seven on teaching literacy,’’ she said.

Rep. Isela Blanc, D-Tempe, said those pushing to open classrooms to those without teacher training on the basis of a shortage are missing the point of why that’s occurring.

She said much of the problem could be resolved by paying teachers more, pointing to data from the National Education Association putting Arizona salaries at or near the bottom of the entire nation.

Blanc said that when inflation is taken into account, Arizona teachers are being paid 14 percent less now than they were in 2001.

And until that’s resolved, Blanc said opening the doors to others with professional knowledge in special areas won’t solve the problem.

Ahwatukee-Gilbert bus route envisioned to start in October

found at valleymetro.org/servicechanges.

Now that bus service in Ahwatukee has been extended on the weekends, Valley Metro is planning to extend it farther east this fall.

A new Route 140 bus is planned to run 11 miles along Ray Road from 48th Street in Ahwatukee to Gilbert Road in Gilbert beginning Oct. 23.

The Valley Metro board must first approve the proposed new route, and residents can make their feelings known in several ways.

Attached is a basic map that shows route. A few details:

Valley Metro spokeswoman Ann Glaser said the new Route 140 will provide nine additional connections in Phoenix, Chandler and Gilbert in a rapidly growing area.

“According to the latest census estimates, this route would provide transit connectivity to almost 30,000 residents and 12,000 jobs within a quarter-mile of the proposed stops,” she said.

6-10 p.m. Wednesday,

E. Ray Road. Potential bone marrow matches for Addy can get screened at the restaurant from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

They can attend a public hearing on 5-6:15 p.m. May 15 in the Valley Metro 10th floor boardroom, 101 N. 1st Ave., Phoenix; participate in a webinar at noon May 9 through valleymetro.org, complete an online comment card on that website or email their comments to input@valleymetro.org by May 19.

More information about all the proposed October service changes, can be

Thanks to the voter-approved Phoenix Transportation 2050 plan, local bus routes and Dial-a-Ride in Ahwatukee last month expanded weekend service hours to match light rail hours every day of the week. Friday and Saturday hours were extended to 2 a.m. and Sunday to 11 p.m.

In August 2015, Phoenix voters approved Transportation 2050, a 35-year citywide transportation plan that includes improved frequency on local bus service.

(Special to AFN)

Zzeeks Pizza owners Mark and Jody Pectol, right, raised $1,125 to help pay for blood transfusions and a bone marrow transplant for 15-month-old Adelyn Troutman of Ahwatukee, being held by her mother, Kami Troutman, as her dad, Matt Troutman, holds daughter Alexa, 2, and son Ethan, 6, holds a facsimile of the check. Another fundraiser will be held

May 10, at the Chick-fil-A Ahwatukee Foothills, 5035

AFN News Staff

EDUCATION

huge problem moving forward for our students and for our state,” Bowie added.

“Expect a lengthy floor debate in both the House and the Senate around this topic, and expect plenty of parents and teachers to visit us at the Capitol,” he said, calling funding “a huge, huge problem that has been impacting our public school districts for years.”

Kyrene” because it threatens to siphon more students.

Klein discussed how the Board of Regents is working with K-12 school systems to improve students’ readiness for college.

She stated that while there has been a slight increase in the number of high school students from Arizona who are going to college, “fewer than half can do work at a college level.”

Though Bowie wrote his letter independent of the speakers, all three made remarks that in one way or the other were related to funding and other education matters in Arizona.

But Klein also pointed to an equally significant problem that the board is trying to address – the number of Arizonans who obtain no skill training or higher education after graduating from high school.

While all three officials gave progress reports on what they and their respective officers were doing to improve education, they also sounded various alarms about the state of education in Arizona.

Vesely briefly discussed some of the changes she and the board are implementing to make the Kyrene School District more competitive as school districts scramble for new students from outside their boundaries.

She said 35 to 40 percent of adults in Arizona have only a high school diploma, meaning that more than a million residents “need meaningful credentials” for today’s jobs.

Klein outlined the board’s Achieve60AZ program, which is trying to ensure that 60 percent of all Arizona adults have a college degree or a professional certificate by 2030.

But she then disclosed that Arizona’s three state universities no longer feed new teachers into the state’s public school systems, and remarked:

“The universities are telling us, ‘We do not have a pipeline of teachers for you anymore.’ You don’t know how scary that is for we educators to hear.”

She also insisted that teacher pay had to be improved in order to improve college- and work-readiness among K-12 students.

“We have to address what happens in the classroom and compensation for teachers,” she said.

Douglas sounded the same refrain in her presentation, noting that she will seek a voter referendum next year for a full-cent sales tax devoted exclusively to education. Currently, there is a half-cent tax that is due to expire next year.

While education students from other states still flock to Arizona State University, the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University for the weather as well as the academics, they return home after graduation because of the dismal salaries for teachers, she said.

But Kyrene’s problems go deeper, Vesely said, noting that the district is projected to suffer continuing enrollment decline for the next five or six years.

District enrollment has declined by 600 in the past decade, she said.

A full cent would generate $400 million in new revenue – and could fund a $5,000-a-year, across-the-board pay increase for K-12 teachers, she said.

Douglas said that in her frequent “listening tours” around the state “overwhelmingly I hear from people that they want our teachers to be paid better.”

That represents a loss of millions in state funding, which is based on the number of pupils enrolled in a district.

“The problem is that our neighborhoods haven’t turned over,” Vesely said, referring to the relatively stable housing market in Ahwatukee and those parts of Tempe and Chandler that are within district boundaries.

Even many empty-nest households aren’t moving, shutting out an influx of young families with children who could replenish the enrollment rolls.

And Vesely said the expansion of Arizona’s school voucher program “may be very impactful for a district like

Douglas also said that while “I absolutely support parental choice in education,” she was critical of the Legislature’s expansion of vouchers, noting they originally were implemented in Arizona so that parents of specialneeds children could find the most effective educational programs available.

“One of the big problems is that the oversight for this program never grows,” she said. “There needs to be better checks and balances.”

Douglas also declared, “I support our public education system” and said “we have to tread very carefully” on expanding school voucher programs.

For related column: See page 32.

Wolfgang’s

and ceiling fans. Also new master bath tub and separate re-modeled shower. Large eat-in kitchen with island and breakfast bar has new stainless steel appliances and built-in microwave. 4 bedrooms upstairs are huge. One bedroom has it own balcony over looking the pool. Plantation shutters. Steps from

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS CHARACTER PLAN

PLANNING

from page 1

alignment in West Phoenix along 59th Avenue. It will be an area complete with modern business parks for advanced manufacturing, business services and emerging industries. Think of it as a Price Corridor of the West Valley.”

The Stanton administration’s economic development director is Chris McKay, who helped shape the Price Corridor when she held that position with Chandler.

Robbie Sherwood, Stanton’s press secretary, said the South Mountain Technology Corridor would run north to south along 59th Avenue, the western terminus of the freeway.

Running roughly a half-mile on either side of the freeway from Buckeye south to Elliot Road, that corridor in 25-30 years “should support more than 80,000 jobs,” Sherwood said.

“It has the potential to be one of the largest employment corridors in the Valley – downtown is the largest,” Sherwood said, adding that the Maricopa Association of Governments estimates that “nearly 40 percent of West Valley residents commute to other parts of the Valley for work.”

The mayor’s speech – which never mentioned Ahwatukee or the havoc the freeway has created here – came only the day after the Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Committee discussed a proposed new Character Plan for the community.

That plan says the state and city should provide regular updates on the South Mountain Freeway as part of their effort to protect the community’s character.

The updated character plan for

Ahwatukee will be an ongoing focus of the committee and city planning officials for the next six months and would eventually become part of Phoenix’s General Plan, which essentially guides zoning and other development decisions.

Chief City Planner Josh Bednarek told the panel at its April 24 meeting that one of its biggest decisions will involve a determination of Ahwatukee’s commercial core.

“Many villages in Phoenix don’t have cores,” he said, noting that all 15 will have to choose one of six different cores of various density, ranging from large “regional centers” to small “neighborhood centers.”

The whole purpose of the process is to answer the question, “Are there areas to address for economic development for each village?” Bednarek said.

“In other words, we’re going to grow and we have to decide whether the growth is going to go,” he added.

Bednarek remarked that Ahwatukee’s commercial core currently would be identified along I-10, but said the panel would have the option of deciding whether there is another area in the community where a commercial core of some size might be designated.

But the character plan the committee developed focuses far less on commerce and more on preserving Ahwatukee’s low-density quality of life.

Committee member Michael Hinz said it is important that Ahwatukee make a strong statement in the city’s General Plan that “one of the things we value most is the low-density nature of our community.”

(Special to AFN)

The Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Committee will be addressing the community’s Character Plan for the next six months. The document helps shape future development.

Corps of Engineers to hear permit case for freeway Tuesday

the United States,’” ADOT said.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will hold a public hearing next week on a permit needed for the South Mountain Freeway.

The hearing – 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, May 9, at the Boys and Girls Club of the East Valley, Gila River Branch-Komatke, 5047 West Pecos Road, Laveen – won’t slow down construction, the Arizona Department of Transportation has already stated.

“The project remains on track for completion in late 2019,” ADOT said, adding its “project team will move forward with other construction while the May 9 hearing is pending.”

Any work occurring in a designated waterway that falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency requires a socalled Section 404 Clean Water Act permit.

“Along the 22-mile South Mountain Freeway corridor, these areas, including the Salt River, various washes and a conveyance channel in Laveen, are being been roped off and identified by signs saying ‘Waters of

PLANNING

from page 16

Hinz also said Ahwatukee’s Character Plan would need to make an even stronger emphasis on that than the draft already contains.

Currently, the three “village characteristics” in the plan are: “strong, family-oriented neighborhoods,” “diverse

The Gila River Indian Community early last year requested the hearing, which the Corps of Engineers could have rejected.

“ADOT has worked closely with stakeholders to plan a South Mountain Freeway that not only meets strict environmental standards but also addresses one of the most critical transportation needs in the Valley: an east-west alternative to Interstate 10 through downtown Phoenix,” the department said in a release.

It also called its 13-year analysis was “the most extensive environmental review of any highway project to date in Arizona.”

That position is at the heart of the appeal by the Gila Community and Ahwatukee-based Protect Arizona’s Resources and Children, which is attempting to stop the freeway’s construction.

They are asking the U.S. District Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit to overturn a federal judge’s finding that ADOT and the Federal Highway Administration complied with all environmental regulations when the agencies planned the freeway.

open spaces” and “scenic mountain views and sweeping desert vistas.”

For the two goals in the Character Plan, the committee has listed: “support the continued operation of existing golf courses” and “support improvements and additions of new public recreational amenities that promote active lifestyles such as multi-use trails, bike paths and public parks.”

Ahwatukee woman helps make a girl’s wish come true

BY MELODY BIRKETT

AFN Contributor

An Ahwatukee woman and her sister helped make true a wish that a 12-year-old girl had put on a balloon that travelled miles away from her Phoenix home.

Vanessa Gonzalez had written a wish for the complete series of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” books on a balloon before she inflated it and sent it into the air on March 22.

The balloon landed 20 miles away in Mesa a week later in the backyard of Barbara Mattingly, who was on the phone with her sister in Ahwatukee, Kathy Schumacher, when it landed.

“My dogs started to bark so I had to hang up…They were frightened. You could tell because they were looking at something by my feet and barking and backing up,” said Mattingly. “I looked down and there’s a balloon at my feet.”

Mattingly first thought it was an advertisement but then called her sister back and read the balloon message.

Mattingly had never heard of the books, so Schumacher looked them up

on her iPad.

“We were bickering over who was going to buy the books,” said Mattingly. “She had it up so she ordered them and we just split the cost.”

Days later, Schumacher received a notice that the books were undeliverable because the address on the balloon was incomplete.

She found a phone number and reached Vanessa’s dad to confirm the address. He said to Schumacher, “You’re kidding me. You got that balloon?”

Schumacher said, “He just went crazy.”

After Vanessa received the books, she left a message on Schumacher’s phone, thanking her.

“It wasn’t like a toy or something. It was books and we just thought how awesome for a child…to want books,” said Schumacher.

Vanessa still had another wish and that one came true, too.

She wanted to meet the sisters who bought her the books. So, last week she met them at the library near downtown Phoenix.

When Vanessa walked in, Mattingly said she felt “pure joy. I had a lump in

my throat.”

Vanessa felt the same way, saying, “When I walked in, I wanted to yell.”

The sisters gave her the somewhat deflated balloon in a box colored in pink – Vanessa’s favorite color.

“I thought that nobody would actually buy me the books, but now I see there is kindness in this world,” said Vanessa.

The sisters said they didn’t do this for the attention but just wanted to do something nice.”

“I think it’s wonderful she reads,” said Schumacher. When Vanessa walked in, “I just wanted to hug her.”

Vanessa gave the sisters a letter from her school teacher.

“Dear Barb and Kathy,” it read. “This

is Vanessa’s teacher and I thought you would like to know that you could not have done such a wonderful thing for a more deserving student. Vanessa is top of her class….Your generosity landed exactly where it should be…This teacher can’t thank you enough.”

Melody Birkett/AFN Contributor)

Barb Mattingly,left, and her Ahwatukee sister, Kathy Schumacher, hold balloons they received from the girl whose wish they made come true.

Festival of Lights bash a treat for hearty partiers

Hundreds of people turned out Saturday at Rawhide for the Festival of Lights' fundraising Wine and Beer Tasting Event. Second row from left: PJ Munley and Florence Rezeani helped serve; Kevin Cash and his wife, Ahwatukee Chamber President/CEO Lindy Lutz Cash; and FOL Chair Janyce Hazlett. Bottom row: Sue Bicheler, left, and Kim Heather Lah enjoy a drink; Michael Thomas takes a break at the silent auction room; and Charlie Fussner is flanked by Ahwatukee dentist Dr. Rush Bhatangar, left, and his wife, Sandy Fussner. Splendid weather and the band Tripwire made for a fun evening.

PHOTOS BY KIMBERLY CARROLLO AFN Staff Photographer

Daughter’s hair-loss disorder inspires education campaign

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA

AFN Contributor

When the Gattuso family stroll through Chandler Fashion Center, they’re often approached by strangers who may hand them a gift card while offering a sympathetic smile directed at his 7-yearold daughter, Avery.

“They see her bald head and think she’s got cancer and going through chemo,” said Andrew Gattuso of Ahwatukee.

But that’s not the case.

Avery has alopecia, a mysterious autoimmune disease causing hair loss that affects some 4 million people of all ages.

Some lose portions of hair. Others, like Avery, lose all their hair, including eyebrows and eyelashes.

Coping with that as an adult can be difficult, but for children and their parents, it can be much harder.

Because there’s no known cure, Avery’s parents recognize it’s not going to get any easier.

And with that realization, Andrew and

Jessica Gattuso have begun an education campaign that recently included an invitation to Children’s Alopcia Project (CAP) founder Jeff Woytovich to speak to about 300 Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary in Ahwatukee.

At the convocation, Woytovich told students in kindergarten through second grade how he founded the nonprofit CAP after his daughter, Maddie, was diagnosed with the disease at age 5.

“We are the only nonprofit devoted specifically to helping children living with the hair-loss disease,” he said.

For the Gattuso family, CAP has not only been a support to navigating their journey with alopecia, but has brought new friends and activities, including last summer’s Alopeciapalooza – a summer camp for children living with hair loss and their families.

It has been five years since the Gattusos discovered that their first-born had a disease neither one had even heard of before.

“We noticed a circular patch of hair missing from Avery’s head during a vacation when she was 2 years old,”

recalled Jessica.

“When we got home, we noticed the patch was bigger,” she continued. “I took Avery to a dermatologist who unfortunately did not specialize in kids and was terrible with a squirming toddler.

“She angrily told me we needed to do blood tests and prescribed a steroid cream for Avery’s head. In the meantime,

Seven-year-old Avery Gattuso, flanked by parents Andrew and Jessica Gattuso and brother Dominic, has a rare autoimmune disorder that caused her to lose all her hair. Avery doesn't let that keep her down.

(Stephanie Cross/Special to AFN)

See ALOPECIA on page 21

ALOPECIA

Andrew did extensive research on the Internet, which led us to more questions than answers.”

The cream didn’t work and their daughter’s light brown hair fell out in clumps.

“Our pediatrician sent us to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, and they were wonderful, but a diagnosis of alopecia leads to more questions. Will Avery lose all her hair or just patches? Are there treatments? The best doctors in the world can’t answer these – only time would tell.”

The family attempted experimental treatments that sometimes produced a bit of hair, but it would fall out. And they were concerned over future side effects.

Then they learned Avery had a specific type of alopecia.

“Turns out Avery has alopecia universalis, which means she lost all of her hair, including her eyelashes and eye brows,” said Jessica. “We went through stages of fear, anger, helplessness and sadness.”

To lessen unwanted attention

from adults and children, the couple tried placing hats and wigs on their preschooler. They laugh now at the memory that Avery wasn’t the least bit amenable to either.

And then came CAP.

“Over time, we realized that Avery would be bald for her entire life, and we wanted her to embrace it,” her mother said. “We reached out to the local CAP group and started attending outings with other kids with alopecia.”

“There was a period that Avery was nervous and embarrassed when meeting new people,” her mother recounted.

“However, since joining CAP and attending Alopeciapalooza, Avery has the confidence to say she loves her bald head and even says that if she grew hair, she would shave it off.”

For Avery’s father, thinking that school might have its own emotional minefields for his daughter instilled a determination to educate others about alopecia – which is also a CAP tenet.

He organized the Kyrene Monte Vista convocation.

“I wanted to raise awareness,” he said. “That’s one of the CAP objectives. At first, the school thought the first-grade classes were enough of an audience, but

I felt the bigger the crowd, the better.”

He sees his daughter as a trouper who has developed not only an ability to understand the curious looks, but an awareness of others’ struggles.

“She’s fun, she’s silly at times, she’s 7,” he smiled. “She’s building a thicker skin, for sure. It’s helping the more she attends and gets involved with CAP, who help her build self-esteem. But she’s also considerate of other people’s feelings. She’s definitely empathetic.”

“Avery having alopecia is definitely not what I envisioned, but we love her and want her to feel comfortable in her own skin,” he added.

“I’m guessing once we get into middle school and high school it could be a little different, but that’s why we want to educate her classmates, the staff, people in the community.”

Jessica added: “As parents, we still worry that Avery will be teased or bullied.”

“Everybody has a thing,” a sign at last year’s Alopeciapalooza read. For those with alopecia, there’s no hiding it.

“Our daughter is unique in a way that is obvious. When we’re in public, or even post pictures on social media, most people assume she has cancer,” Jessica

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adding:

“And kids, being kids, will point and loudly comment that ‘that girl has no hair’ or ask why she doesn’t have hair. And when we’re out at a restaurant, people will anonymously buy our dinners or send dessert. Others give us ‘the look’ like we have a terminally ill child.”

Though they were first bothered by the attention, Jessica said, “Oh, we’re thankful to live in such a caring community, and that we have a healthy child.”

Like her husband, she says CAP has been a great help.

“In addition to helping Avery build self-esteem, CAP has helped us as a family by allowing us to share our story with others in similar situations,” she explained.

“CAP members have helped us work through the stages of anger, sadness and fear, and now we strive to help new members do the same.”

Avery doesn’t let it get in the way of enjoying kid pleasures – like dance. She and her younger brother, Dominic, 5, are part of a hip-hop dance group in recital at Ahwatukee’s Center Pointe Dance this June.

Lost diamond has a happy ending for newly engaged woman

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

Lisa Steinbring won’t forget the weekend of April 22 very quickly. She only has to look at the ring on her left hand to remember a 48-hour roller coaster of emotion.

Not only did she accept Ron Riffle’s proposal of marriage April 22, but the next day was her birthday.

And that day almost cost the Chandler woman her diamond engagement ring had it not been for the help she received from strangers at an Ahwatukee park.

Even though Steinbring had pneumonia, friends of the couple wished to celebrate her double-dose of happiness by attending an outdoor performance of their favorite band, Tripwire, at the season’s last Concerts in the Park event at Desert Foothills Park.

The concert turned into a community diamond hunt when the centerpiece in her ring fell off and landed in the grass.

“Ron and I met last year as part of the Singles in Gilbert Meetup. Many of our

SIG (Singles in Gilbert) friends were with us to celebrate my birthday, and despite the pneumonia, we wanted to share our happy news,” said Steinbring, who days later was still battling the lung infection. “The only reason I even got off my chair was when the band announced our engagement, and we went up to dance,” she recalled.

One minute, the ring with multiple sparkling stones was intact, then the next, the center diamond was gone –the surrounding diamonds encircling an empty, gaping setting.

The loss coalesced and energized a community of about 60 concert-goers into action.

After it was announced that the diamond was missing, literally dozens of concert attendees searched in the sparse dry grass and abundant dirt for 45 minutes, their cellphones providing illumination in the gloaming, and then the dark.

The scene prompted one observer to liken the sight to summer fireflies.

“Someone came to me and said this

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Lisa Steinbring and Ron Riffle were so upset that the main diamond fell out of her day-old engagement ring at Desert Foothills Park that they left before the wife of a band member playing a concert there found it.

poor lady had lost the diamond out of her ring – the centerpiece stone. I announced it after the band stopped playing, and 50 to 60 people immediately started helping to look for it,” recalled Ahwatukee resident and Realtor Randy Fitch, who has sponsored the Concerts in the Park

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series of free music for 15 years.

“The poor lady was crying her eyes out and her fiance was distraught, but after searching themselves, they finally gave up and left,” Fitch said.

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Heather Unger of east Mesa, wife of Tripwire drummer Karl Unger, found the lost diamond in Desert Foothills Park.

(Special to AFN)

East Valley volunteers seek more Little Brothers and Sisters

BY RACHEL EROH AFN Contributor

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona, the organization that matches adult mentors with children, has a problem that it’s never had before.

BBBSAZ has more volunteers in the East Valley than it has children to match them with.

“We have been actively recruiting a lot of volunteers throughout Maricopa County for the last few years, and I think a lot are just stepping forward right now,” said Brandi Devlin, senior director of marketing.

To try to balance the influx of volunteers, the organization has been reaching out to other nonprofits, youth organizations and school districts to let them know that children would be matched quickly with a mentor.

“We really want to get the word out to families right now,” Devlin said. “Especially since summer is coming and the kids won’t be in school anymore.”

Kids enrolled in the program in Central Phoenix, South Phoenix and the West Valley have much longer wait times. Kids could wait up to two years to be matched with a mentor.

“In those areas, we have more kids signed up than adults have signed up to be mentors,” Devlin said. “It’s just one of those weird quirks of geography.”

Kids who enroll in the East Valley may only have to wait up to two months before being matched with a mentor.

“Kids in the East Valley are very lucky because they’ll be matched really quickly,” she said.

BBBSAZ is trying to let families know about the benefits of enrolling children in their program, Devlin said. They are less likely to skip school, are more involved in extracurricular activities and are more likely to graduate.

Out of all the seniors enrolled in the program last year, 98 percent graduated and 65 percent went on to college.

“A lot of the kids said it was because of the influence of their Big Brother or Big Sister that got them thinking about their future,” Devlin said.

Some of the friendships created through the program continue even after the child is no longer in the program,

she said.

“We hear stories every day about mentors staying in touch with their Little Brothers or Sisters for 10, 20 and even 30 years after being matched,” Devlin said.

Andrea Sanchez, a former Little Sister and now Big Sister, became inspired by the organization and currently works for BBBSAZ as a community relations specialist.

Sanchez was 9 years old when she was enrolled in the program and matched with her mentor. Her match lasted for eight years after that.

“I was really quiet and reserved and she was very talkative and outgoing,” she said. “That’s why she picked me to be her Little because she wanted to get me out of my shell.”

Sanchez was struggling to make friends and because her mother was working two jobs she didn’t get to see her much.

It was taking an emotional toll on her, and having her Big Sister to be there for her helped her out a lot, she said.

“She was especially helpful with family stuff and how to be an adult,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez has stayed in touch with her mentor and will even call her for advice, she said.

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Big Brother Sam Leyvas and his 10-year-old Little Brother, Skyler Aguilar, have been matched for two years now.

For Steinbring, it was devastating loss further exacerbated by her illness.

“We had lost all hope, yet all our friends were praying to Saint Anthony that it would be found,” recalled Steinbring, whose 59-year-old husband succumbed to cancer two years ago.

Others who saw the couple’s angst persevered in the night search, among them Ahwatukee attorney Brian Foster, his fiancée, Alina Chu, and his two daughters, Kelsey and Brittany.

“I wish I’d videotaped it because it was nighttime and suddenly you see all these cellphones with lights looking on the ground. This went on for a long time after the concert,” said Foster. “All of a sudden, I heard a commotion and someone yelling, ‘I found it!’”

That voice belonged to Heather Unger, wife of Tripwire drummer Karl Unger who was at the concert with their two daughters.

She had a serendipitous tale of her own.

“I couldn’t help look for the ring when it was announced, as I was watching the girls. After the gig ended, I packed up our chairs while my husband packed up his drums and equipment and headed downhill, Unger recalled, adding:

“I opened the flashlight on my phone and thought, ‘What the heck; it’s worth a try’ and started looking for the diamond where everyone had been dancing,” said Unger.

“I may have been looking literally for five minutes when I noticed something shining in the grass. I almost passed it, but went back. I picked it up, and sure enough, it was the diamond! I yelled, ‘I found it, I found it!’” she said.

“I know I’d be heartbroken if I lost the stone in my engagement ring, and I’m very happy to know their special ring

will be reset with the original diamond,” said Unger, who celebrates 17 years of marriage to Karl this month.

The euphoria of the discovery evaporated a bit when those remaining realized they had no idea who the couple was, let alone them the good news.

Enter social media.

“I didn’t get her contact information, so I posted on Facebook that we’d found ‘something precious’ and they could contact me,” said Fitch, an Ahwatukee Realtor for 20 years.

“Just as I got home, the fiance, Ron, called me. I said I needed some kind of evidence and he sent me a photo of the diamond ring on Lisa’s hand, and then another photo of it without the stone.”

Proof enough, and within 40 minutes, the couple and Fitch met up at a restaurant.

“She was shaking, she was so excited,” recalled Fitch. “I told them, ‘You are going to have such a wonderful story to tell.”

“We couldn’t believe it,” said Steinbring, recalling the phone call alerting them of their lost-but-now-found diamond.

“We are so grateful for this happy miracle memory of this ‘diamond in the rough,’ and for the quick, energetic action by everyone – the women, men and even young children who heeded the call to help once Randy announced it onstage,” she said.

“I had strangers give me a pat on the shoulder to encourage me, and then help us retrace our steps. And I thank Heather for not giving up. We have angels in heaven and earth helping us every day.”

As she and Riffle are avid fans of the band Tripwire, she was quick to offer a shout-out to them, too.

“I like to say Tripwire rocked my diamond out of the setting and then put it right back next to my heart,” she smiled.

Secure household products lest they poison your dog

BY MALINDA MALONE AFN Guest Writer

Did you know that dogs are three to four times more likely to be poisoned than cats? This is due to a dog’s curious nature. Dogs, especially puppies, will put just about anything into their mouths. Cats, of course, are much pickier.

Poisons are any liquid, solid or gas that can harm or cause death when ingested, inhaled, absorbed or injected into your pet. Sadly, poisoning most often occurs because of careless handling or storing of potentially toxic substances.

Dogs and cats licking their paws are susceptible to poisoning by walking through insecticides, cleaning agents, or petroleum products. The best approach to avoiding the dangers of these poisons is by carefully using and securely storing potentially toxic substances away from areas your pets (and children) have access to.

It is prudent to know the dangers, consider the possibility and prevent the reality. Remember, there is no Doggie 911!

Of course, there are other obvious dangers, like prescription and over the counter medications, as well as alcohol but they are just the beginning of a long list of possible toxins for your pet.

In addition to toxic substances we normally think of, we often forget that there are also real dangers lurking in our own kitchen. Many dog owners know

that chocolate is poisonous, but there are certainly others we might not know of. Dogs cannot have raisins, grapes, artificial sugars, onions, garlic, chives and many more.

Have you ever heard of xylitol? It is an artificial sweetener used in many things we eat and chew. Xylitol is in many brands of chewing gum. Just one stick of gum can be possibly deadly for your dog.

Since we live in the desert, is also important to mention that the sego palm is poisonous to your pet. If your furry friend likes to dine outside, make sure you are watchful of them in your yard.

Please discuss the dangers of pet poisoning with your family, awareness is key! Watch your pet and read the ingredient labels closely.

The signs and symptoms of poisoning are vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, breathing difficulties, excitability, seizures and loss of consciousness.

If you suspect a pet poisoning, the actions you take next are pivotal for the survival of your pet.

First, try to stay calm and call your veterinarian immediately (if after hours, contact an emergency pet hospital or a pet poison hotline). Treatment for poisoning requires quick first aid treatment and prompt veterinarian care.

Expert care is essential because the amount of poison absorbed by the body is not known. Prior to contacting your veterinarian, you should try to gather the following information: Do you know what the suspected poisonous substance

See POISON on page 25

POISON

was? Your vet will want to know. If a chemical or household product is suspected, get the label or take a pic with your cell phone. There are different protocols for rat poison and snail bait or antifreeze, for example. And, do you know how long it has been since your pet was exposed to this substance? The amount of time that has elapsed will determine how aggressive the treatment is. If the pet has vomited, bring in a sample of the vomitus for the vet to look at. If they have not vomited, do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by your veterinarian, emergency animal hospital or animal poison control. Do not stick anything down your pet’s throat; this is ineffective and dangerous. If you have the container of the suspected poison, take it with you for specific chemical identification.

be prepared to start chest compressions. If you have not been trained, there are pet safety and CPR classes you can take and get trained.

Bottom line: Contact your veterinarian, administer protocols as directed and anything else they say and then transport per directions.

Kansas State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital offers a free 24hour poison control hotline for pet and animal guardians as well as veterinarians at 785-532-5679. The hotline is available 24 hours a day.

Another resource is the Pet Poison Helpline, which does charge a fee, but has a website with a lot of valuable information: 855-289-0358 and petpoisonhelpline.com .

If your dog loses consciousness, check for breathing. Is the chest rising and falling? Feel for a pulse at the femoral artery in the rear leg. If you have been trained in pet CPR,

There are two pet emergency hospitals close to Ahwatukee. Blue Pearl Specialty/ Emergency Hospital is at 86 W. Juniper Ave., Gilbert, 480-497-0222, and 1st Pet Veterinary Center, 1233 W. Warner Rad, Chandler, 480-732-0018. Make a note of the one nearest you.

-Malinda Malone is the owner of Diamond Cut Pet Spa, a certified master pet tech instructor in pet CPR and first aid. Information: 480-689-1261.

Legacy Parenting plans sessions on divorce, technology

Legacy Parenting in Ahwatukee has scheduled workshops to help parents deal with their children on issues involving divorce and technology. “Divorce is hard for everyone involved. It is especially hard for the children who may be caught in the middle,” said parenting counselor and Legacy owner Sandy Krause. “Their whole world changes. Not only is the relationship between their parents different, but many times the relationship between them and their parents is also.

BBBSAZ from page 23

Shayne Lopez became a Big Brother in July as a way to give back to the community, Lopez said.

“I get a lot out of this,” Lopez said. “I feel like I’m making a difference.”

Benjamin, his 9-year-old Little Brother, was having behavioral issues in school when he was enrolled in the

“This extra stress can lead to lifelong consequences,” she said, noting their confidence and self-esteem can be adversely affected.

She said parents need to recognize that children risk turning to drug or alcohol abuse and that their ability to cope depends on the stability and support they receive from their parents.

The workshop, titled “Crossroads of Parenting and Divorce,” is a five-hour seminar 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 3 at 4425 E. Agave Road, Ahwatukee.

Cost is $25 and includes a copy of a parent’s guide. Future seminars on the

program. Since hanging out with Lopez, he has grown academically and doesn’t get into trouble as often.

Benjamin enjoys being outdoors, so when they hang out, Lopez takes him to the zoo, sporting events and rock climbing, he said.

Having Lopez in his life gives him the ability to talk about issues he is dealing with and receive advice.

“I tell him how I would handle things.

topic will be held July 8 and Aug. 5 at the same time.

Meanwhile, Legacy Parenting also will offer a workshop aimed at helping parents guide their children through issues created by technology.

“There are a lot of opinions circulating about whether kids should use technology and at what age it is okay for them to start,” she said.

“Does using smartphones, computers, iPads and television affect a child’s mental, emotional or physical development? What are the consequences if a child doesn’t use

Having someone to talk to, who is not his parent, is really helpful,” Lopez said.

“He has someone who will hear him out and not try to correct him”

Even though Benjamin is only 9, Lopez still tries to get Benjamin to think about the future.

“I’m not shy about how I grew up socioeconomically challenged and now my life is different,” Lopez said. “I make that connection with him that it’s

technology? Are parents caught in a quandary as to whether your child should be using technological devices and at what age it is okay to do so?” she said.

The workshop will focus on behavior, warning signs that technology may be causing a problem and other topics. It will be held 7-8:30 p.m., May 16 and May 25 at the E. Agave Road office.

Cost is $20 per person or $30 for coparenting couples.

Information and registration: 480-759-1898 or legacyparenting. today.

because I went and got a degree.”

The program has been making progress with reaching out to families in the East Valley and getting kids enrolled for the past two to three months now.

“We want parents to know that when they enroll their kids in the program that they are basically giving their child one more adult to help them realize their potential,” Devlin said.

Awareness of signs, symptoms of RSV in children is important

BY DR GARY KOHRING AFN Guest Writer

If you’re a parent of a young child, chances are good you know about RSV – the virus that causes a lot of respiratory problems in young kids. Not a parent yet? It’s important to get yourself acquainted with it. At some point, your child will likely get RSV. RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is the virus that most commonly causes bronchiolitis, a lower-respiratory tract infection, in children and infants younger than 2. Children older than 2 years typically won’t develop bronchiolitis, but can be infected with RSV.

RSV infection usually causes symptoms similar to those of the common cold or mild wheezing.

The virus spreads through respiratory droplets. So, when an infected person coughs or sneezes into the air or their hands, the virus is carried in the droplets and can survive on surfaces for several hours.

When your little one gets bronchiolitis from RSV, there are some surefire warning signs. Bronchiolitis usually begins like a regular cold and starts off with a stuffy or runny nose, mild cough, a temperature higher than 100.4 degrees, and decreased appetite.

As bronchiolitis progresses, other symptoms can show up, including breathing fast or having trouble breathing. In infants, the first sign can be a pause in breathing that lasts longer than 15 or 20 seconds.

Other symptoms include: wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing (which usually last seven days), a severe

cough (which can last for 14 days or longer) and trouble eating and drinking (because of the other symptoms).

Treating RSV focuses on the symptoms.

Parents may choose to give their child fever reducers, such as acetaminophen, and may want to use saline nasal drops with bulb suctioning for infants to help with congestion. Cough medicines, decongestants and sedatives are not recommended.

Coughing is one way for the body to clear the lungs, and normally doesn’t need to be treated. As the lungs heal, the coughing caused by the virus resolves.

You’ll need to keep an eye on your child to make sure symptoms – such as difficulty breathing, decreased appetite and decreased urine output – do not get worse.

In about 3 percent of bronchiolitis cases, the child will require monitoring

and treatment in a hospital. We’ve all heard this tip before: make sure your child drinks enough fluids. If the child completely refuses to eat or drink and is having fewer wet diapers, parents should contact their child’s healthcare provider.

Bronchiolitis usually begins clearing up in five to seven days, peaking around day 3. In some cases, though, wheezing may stick around for a week or longer, and it may take as long as 4 to 6 weeks for the child to return to his or her normal self.

If the child seems to be worsening, parents should seek emergency medical attention. This is especially true for children who begin grunting, stop breathing or have blue-colored skin.

Police hope dog walkers keep an eye out for their neighborhood

BY BRENT RUFFNER

Chandler police are launching a new program that lets residents curb crime with the help of their K-9 counterparts.

The Dog Walker Watch Program encourages residents to observe and report suspicious behavior during their daily dog-walking routine.

Police hope that the inclusion of the furry, four-legged friends can help the department form a partnership with the community to deter crime.

The program is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and has been implemented in police stations across the nation.

“We can’t be everywhere all the time,” said Robin Atwood, a crime prevention officer. “We can’t post a police officer out on every corner.”

Atwood said more community involvement can help limit crimes such as vehicle burglaries, Chandler’s biggest crime trend. Some preventable crimes start with open, unattended garage doors and unlocked cars with valuables left in plain view.

The proactive approach is geared to focus attention on the resident’s surroundings rather than common distractions of talking, texting and

listening to music. The program doesn’t require any additional time commitment outside the initial training – a bit different than regular meetings with traditional block watch groups.

Residents can anonymously call or text the department’s non-emergency number at 480-782-4130.

Chandler resident Ashley Schar said she likes the idea of having the program in the community.

“I unfortunately know a lot of people who have been attacked or assaulted in places they feel safe in,” Schar said.

“Crime is everywhere and so are bad people,” she said. “People that have a routine know what is normal in their neighborhood. When people know what to look for and start paying better attention, they can continue to make their neighborhoods safe.”

So far, there has been a positive response on social media. The Facebook post garnered more than 60 likes and 30 shares within a few days.

Some residents said they planned to post information about the program in community newsletters.

Anysia Jaramillo, a Chandler resident, said she’s interested in learning about the program. She said her neighbors are friendly and look out for one another. She said she feels protected with her dog, Voodoo, a Belgian Malinois.

“I want to be educated as far as what’s going on in my community and staying informed,” Jaramillo said.

Resident Heidi Ross said she plans

on participating in the program with her neighbor’s German shepherd

-Dr. Gary Kohring is on staff at Banner Health Clinic–Foothills, 4530 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee.

AFN Contributor

(Brent Ruffner/AFN Contributor)

Chandler residents Anysia Jaramillo, left, and Tori Brennan pose with their Belgian Malinois, Voodoo and Karma, at the Paseo Vista Recreation Area on McQueen Road. Jaramillo said she’s interested in receiving more information about the Dog Walker Watch Program.

Smart Minds Summer academy for gifted kids scheduled

Smart Minds Summer Academy for gifted and talented children will be offered this summer at Summit School of Ahwatukee.

Smart Minds offers the gifted and talented or highly motivated secondthrough seventh-graders a challenging program.

Families can choose the morning-only or all-day program. The latter includes geometry, magic of science, public speaking and debate, engineering in action, mastering Jeopardy and chess strategies.

“The priority of Smart Minds is to create a passion for learning by engaging the students in hands-on, creative, and investigative projects in each and every course we teach,” the school said in a release.

Information: azsmartminds.com or 480-73-7455.

Local attorney Mark Breyer gets Super Lawyers' rating

Super Lawyers, the Thomson Reuters lawyer rating service, has recognized Ahwatukee attorney Mark P. Breyer for his experience and professional conduct. He and his wife Alexis, who is his law

partner, comprise the Husband and Wife Law Team.

He also has been certified as a specialist in personal injury and wrongful death by the Arizona State Bar, a designation earned by less than 2 percent of all Arizona lawyers.

Free country music concert at Cactus Jacks next week

People can learn line dancing and enjoy a country music concert next week at Cactus Jacks, 4747 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee.

Kyle Mercer will perform at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 10. Free line dancing lessons begin at 5:30 p.m.

Mercer is an Arizona native who moved to Nashville for his career. He will perform both cover and original songs.

Information: kylemercer.com and cactusjacksbar.co.

Register for summer line dancing classes at Pecos Park

Ahwatukee dance and fitness instructor Carrie McNeish is signing up participants for summer classes in line dancing and muscle mania at Pecos Community Center in Ahwatukee.

Evening dance classes are on Tuesdays and daytime classes are on Thursdays beginning the week of May 30.

McNeish also is holding 12-week muscle mania classes on Mondays and Wednesdays beginning that week.

Sign up at phoenix.gov/parks. Information: 480-221-9090, cmcneish@ cox.net or dancemeetsfitness.com

Horizon Honors ranked high in national survey opf schools

Horizon Honors Secondary School in Ahwatukee has received a silver medal for ranking 18th in the 2017 U.S. News & World report on the nation’s top high schools.

Only 6,000 schools – about a fourth of the 22,000 schools that U.S. News evaluated – were awarded medals.

“A very special thank you and congratulations to all our staff, our students, and our families who continue to work hard and support all that Horizon Honors stands for – excellence,” said Principal Cynthia Shaheen in a release.

Specific Chiropractic hosting homemade salsa competition

The Specific Chiropractic Center, 4425 E. Agave Road, Ahwatukee is hosting a homemade salsa competition at 6:30 p.m. May 18 and the public is invited.

Entries must be handled safely, and will be judged on color, aroma, appearance, taste and aftertaste.

Chips will be provided by CK’s Tavern and Grill but entrants can bring their own.

To register, contact Dr. Cameron Call at ahwatukee@thespecific.com no later than May 12. Information: 602-753-7782.

Liv Ahwatukee apartments get high marks for service

Investment Property Associates has received the 2016 National Resident Satisfaction Award for Liv Ahwatukee, an apartment complex.

That and IPA’s five other communities received awards based on residents’ responses to questions about their satisfaction with the complexes in the SatisFacts survey administered to some 3,000 apartment communities across the country.

Liv communities offer resort style stateof-the-art amenities including resort-style pools and spas, fully equipped fitness centers, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, game rooms, parks and walking paths. Information: ipaliving.com.

See AROUND on page 29

Ahwatukee!

AROUND

Desert Vista Football Boosters seek gear, offer breakfast

The Desert Vista High School Football Boosters are holding a fundraiser and a benefit breakfast this weekend.

It’s collecting gently used or new football gear – including cleats, pads and helmets as well as other equipment – that will be resold to anyone interested in suiting up for the spring/summer season.

The sale will be held in conjunction with a free pancake breakfast 8-10 a.m. May 6 at the high school football stadium. The breakfast will be cooked and served by boosters and donations are sought to benefit the 3-year-old football program at Arizona State University Preparatory Academy in downtown Phoenix. Gear can be dropped off after football practice at Desert Vista High to the day of the sale/breakfast.

Information: Valerie Myers at 480-2044408 or valmyers04@gmail.com

Childhood development disorders to be discussed

Childhood neurodevelopmental and behavioral disorders such as autism,

ADHD, sensory processing disorder, OCD, ODD, and Tourette’s will be the subject of Dr. Cameron Call’s workshop at 6:30 p.m. May 17 at The Specific Chiropractic Center, 4525 E. Agave Road, Ahwatukee.

A limited number of seats is available. RSVP: 602-753-7782 or ahwatukee@ thespecific.com.

Foothills Montessori slates 8-week summer camp

Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, is offering a “fun, interactive and handson” summer camp for children age 3-8 for eight weeks from May 30 through July 21 with a different theme each week.

Campers will participate in themerelated activities, crafts and games each week and enjoy Water Day every Friday. Themes are related to Spanish and art activities and special events such as puppet shows and magic shows are scheduled throughout the summer. Campers do not need to be enrolled in the regular school program and can sign up for weekly sessions or just for a few days a week. Space is limited. Information: 480-759-3810.

DOG WALKER

puppy. She said she has used the police department’s non-emergency number to report suspicious behavior in the past.

“These innovative programs help keep this growing city feel more connected and neighborly – more willing to help each other out, if needed,” Ross said.” Dogs are natural magnets for people to meet each other. So, I think this a fun opportunity to make an impact.”

Ross said the police department has been receptive to community members and are “truly our community partners” in Chandler.

She said community involvement helps stunt crime.

“When neighbors are out, aware and active in their communities, if something seems suspicious, crime is less likely to thrive there,” Ross said.

Atwood said she hopes the program piggybacks positively off of the police department’s “See Something, Say Something” Campaign.

Police recommend tipsters explain the nature of your call when reporting suspicious behavior and let the operator know your location and be able to give specific physical description of the possible suspect.

Atwood said police depend on the public’s awareness to help make the community safe.

“If you do identify something that looks suspicious, contact us,” Atwood said. “That’s the biggest thing.”

Chandler Police plan to eventually partner with a company to help get the word out about the program.

Schar said simply being aware can help out in a big way.

“Situational awareness is something that a lot of people lack these days – especially our generation of kids growing up immersed in their cell phones,” Schar said. “If you could save a life or a family from being burglarized just by getting trained on what to look for, why wouldn’t you?”

For more information, email robin. atwood@chandleraz.gov or call 480-782-4962.

TUESDAY, MAY 2

Writers discuss email

The writers’ discussion group, which meets the first Tuesday of every month, will hear a presentation by romance author KC Klein on email marketing for authors.

DETAILS>> 6-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. No registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

Book club topic set

All adults are welcome to come and discuss the book of the month, “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead.

DETAILS>> 7-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Meets first Wednesday of every month. No registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Thunder football seeks gear

The Desert Vista High School Football Boosters Club is collecting old football gear to sell and raise money for the team. Any extra equipment will be donated to ASU Prep Academy’s fledgling football team. A free pancake breakfast also will be served by football coaches and boosters.

DETAILS>> 8-10 a.m., Desert Vista High parking lot, 16440 S. 32nd St., Ahwatukee. Donations for breakfast accepted on behalf of the ASU Prep Academy team. Gear also can be dropped off at the school football field after practice through May 4. Information: Valerie Myers, 480204-4408 or valmyers@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Learn about insurance

“Own It: Insurance 101” will teach you everything you need to know about insurance and how to protect yourself. Presented by the YWCA of Metropolitan Phoenix

DETAILS>> 6-7:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Register in the calendar section at phxlib. org.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

Critique group meets

The Writers Critique Group meets the second Tuesday of every month. Bring 5 double-spaced pages of writing to get feedback on from your peers.

DETAILS>> 6:00-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. No registration required. Emailhaley. dziuk@phoenix.gov for more info.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Understand Medicare

“Understanding Medicare” covers all aspects of the federal program, including a person’s rights, options and entitlements as well as what it covers and how to enroll. It is an educational seminar produced by Gregory Geryak, a local insurance consultant.

DETAILS>> 4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-7975615. Refreshments will be served and advisors from Physicians Mutual will be on hand.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

Understand Medicare

“Understanding Medicare” covers all aspects of the

federal program, including a person’s rights, options and entitlements as well as what it covers and how to enroll. It is an educational seminar produced by Gregory Geryak, a local insurance consultant.

DETAILS>> 5 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-7975615. Refreshments will be served and advisors from Physicians Mutual will be on hand.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

Folded books taught

Learn how to make your own “folded book art” in this interactive class.

DETAILS>> 2-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Register in the calendar section at phxlib.org. Adults only.

SATURDAY, MAY 31

Weekly teen program starts

Wednesdays are for Teens will begin, featuring movies, games and other activities.

DETAILS >> 4:30-6:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. No registration required. Ages 12-18 only.

SUNDAYS

‘TinkerTime’ open for kids

A makerspace for children to design, experiment, and invent as they explore hands-on STEAM activities through self-guided tinkering.

DETAILS>> 1-4 p.m. every Sunday, Ironwood Library 4333 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Ages 6-11. Free; No registration required.

MONDAYS

Chamber offers networking

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members.

DETAILS>> Noon, Native Grill and Wings, 5030 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.

LD 18 Dems meet monthly

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

TUESDAYS

Chair yoga featured

Inner Vision Yoga Studio offers chair yoga to help seniors and people recovering from injuries to stay fit.

DETAILS>> 1:30-2:30 p.m., 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. $5 per class. Information: donna@ innervisionyoga.com or 480-330-2015.

Toastmasters sharpen skills

Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings

DETAILS>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

Power Partners available

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce

on page 31

CALENDAR

networking and leads group is open to chamber members.

DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., Four Points by Sheraton, 10831 S. 51st St., Ahwatukee. Dorothy Abril, 480-753-7676.

WEDNESDAYS

Watercolor classes available

Watercolor classes that teach both bold and beautiful as well as soft and subtle approaches to the art are available twice a week for beginners and intermediate students who are at least 15 years old. Step-by-step instruction and personal help are provided.

DETAILS>> 2:30-5 Wednesdays and 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays at Hobby Lobby, 46th Street and Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Cost: $25 per class, $80 for four classes. Registration required: jlokits@yahoo.com or 480-471-8505.

Montessori holds open house

Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori holds an open house weekly. It includes a short talk about Montessori education, followed by a tour of its campus.

DETAILS>> 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-759-3810

Grief support is free

Hospice of the Valley offers a free ongoing grief support group for adults and is open to any adult who has experienced a loss through death. No registration required.

DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. 602-636-5390 or HOV. org.

Foothills Women meet

An informal, relaxed social organization of about 90 women living in the Ahwatukee Foothills/Club West area. A way to escape once a month to have fun and meet with other ladies in the area. Guest speaker or entertainment featured.

DETAILS>>7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Contact jstowe2@cox.net or FoothillsWomensClub.org.

Parents can ‘drop in’

Parents are invited to join a drop-in group to ask questions, share ideas or just listen to what’s going on with today’s teenagers.

DETAILS>> 5:30-7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month. Maricopa Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Phoenix. Free. RSVP at 602-827-8200, ext. 348, or rcarter@cals.arizona.edu.

‘Dems and Donuts’ set

Legislative District 18 Democrats gather for an informal chat.

DETAILS>>Free and open to the public 7:30-9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Denny’s, 7400 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. RSVP: marie9@q.com or 480592-0052.

LD 18 Dems meet in Tempe

The Legislative District 18 Democrats meet the second Monday of the month.

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. social time, 7-8:30 p.m. meeting time. Because the location may be different from month to month, see ld18democrats.org. Information: ld18demsinfo@gmail.com. Free and open to the public.

Special networking offered

Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce has a networking and leads group is open to chamber members.

DETAILS>> 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Radisson Hotel, 7475 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.

THURSDAYS Kiwanis meets weekly

The Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club meets weekly and welcomes newcomers.

DETAILS>> 7:30 a.m. Biscuits Restaurant, 4623 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. Information: mike.maloney2003@ gmail.com.

Mothers of Preschoolers gather

Free child care for ages 0 to 5.

DETAILS>> 9 a.m. second and fourth Thursday, Foothills Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St. Call Kim at 480-759-2118, ext. 218.

FRIDAYS

‘Gentle yoga’ offered

Inner Vision Yoga Studio offers “gentle floor yoga” for core strengthening and healthy backs.

DETAILS>> 1:30-2:30 p.m. 4025 E. Chandler, Ahwatukee. $5 per class. Information: 480-330-2015 or donna@ innervisionyoga.com.

Toastmasters teach skills

This chamber-exclusive Chapter of the International Toastmasters club boasts professional development skills. Become the speaker and leader you want to be with Ahwatukee Chamber Toastmasters Club.

DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., First American Title Conference Room, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., #100, Ahwatukee. Devida Lewis, 480-753-7676.

SATURDAYS

Read to therapy dogs

Reading aloud to certified therapy dogs is an excellent way for emerging readers to practice their skills (and lots of fun, too!) Come read to our certified therapy dogs. DETAILS>> 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 1-11. First come first served.

Alzheimer’s support group meets

Caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients can find support monthly.

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

Bosom Buddies slates meetings

Ahwatukee/Chandler nonprofit breast cancer support group.

DETAILS>> 10 a.m. to noon, second Saturday of the month. Morrison Boardroom next to Chandler Regional Medical Center, 1875 W. Frye Road, Chandler. Contact Patti Lynch at 480-893-8900 or tomklynch@msn.com or Cele Ludig at 480-330-4301.

— Email calendar items to pmaryniak@ahwatukees.com

Share Your Thoughts Send

The grads, we honor; but let’s not forget their teachers

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

In less than a month, hundreds of students from Horizon Honors

Secondary and Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista high schools will be charting the next trajectory in their flight path through life.

Many will be going on to colleges and universities. Others will start focusing on a trade. Still others will be signing up to serve our country. And a few will probably still be figuring out what to do.

So, I am writing to you – and any adults who might know of a senior graduating from one of the Ahwatukee high schools.

I’m sure that the young men and women of the Class of 2017 are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in their lives.

Some might have a little trepidation about the future and others a little melancholy about what they’ll be bidding goodbye to.

And parents are probably wondering

how the time went by so fast.

One day, they’re taking them by the hand to kindergarten or preschool, and seemingly in a flash, they’re watching them mount a stage and receiving a diploma.

In the coming weeks, we at AFN hope to spotlight some of the achievements of the members of the high school Class of 2017.

Of course, depending on the level of cooperation I get from colleges, universities – and maybe some parents – we’ll also try to tell our readers about those Ahwatukee residents who are graduating from colleges or universities with distinction.

But right now, I want to focus on the Ahwatukee members of the high school graduation classes in a particular way.

The thought occurred to me that while everyone who is collecting a diploma at the three local high schools will have gotten there not just because of their own determination – but because of the influence of one or more teachers.

Somewhere along the line – probably

a few places along the way – they had a teacher who helped them conquer a seemingly impossible hurdle.

The challenge could have been academic. It could have been some personal matter that stood in the way of their academic achievement.

Other seniors are about to become high school graduates because of the inspiration and/or example set by a teacher or teachers.

Instead of boosting them over a roadblock, a teacher opened their eyes to an amazing path to the future. The teacher inspired them to reach heights they never dreamed of or just gave them the encouragement they needed to press onward.

At a time when Arizona teachers seem to be given empty lip service and little else by the people who control their purse strings, the AFN would like to take the occasion of this year’s high school graduations in Ahwatukee to do something special for them.

Yes, this time of year may be more a

time for celebrating the accomplishments of the young men and women who will be graduating, but shouldn’t we also be celebrating the men and women who are sending them off?

We hope to publish some of the soonto-be grads’ memories of the teacher that most influenced these young lives.

Shoot me an email – pmaryniak@ ahwatukee.com – and tell me the teacher’s full name, the subject or grade he or she taught and where, and how that teacher made an impact on your life. Include your full name as well.

We will publish as many as responses as space allows – and all of them at ahwatukee.com – as long as they conform to our simple guidelines above.

You can help, too – start by showing this column to a graduating Ahwatukee high school senior.

Encourage them to give this request some consideration.

We all need a reminder – some more than others – of the men and women who make graduations possible.

Help celebrate Kyrene teachers in special tribute

BY JAN VESELY AFN Guest Writer

This week, school communities in Ahwatukee and across the country will be celebrating “Teacher Appreciation Week.”

At the April 25 meeting, the Kyrene Governing Board adopted a proclamation that acknowledged the contribution of teachers, saying: “Teachers make public schools great; teachers work to open students’ minds to ideas, knowledge and dreams, they fill many roles as listeners, explorers, role models, motivators and mentors.”

But as I enter my 40th year in education, I am concerned for the future of teaching. As we spend this week honoring our teachers, the Arizona legislature is grappling with how to address teacher compensation as part of the state budget.

We don’t know what the final figure will be, but from the stories I hear from teachers in Kyrene, it is very clear that we need to do a better job of compensating them for their work.

In my conversations with our teachers, one message rings clear. They are having to choose between pursuing their passion for education and being able to provide for their basic needs.

One teacher wrote, “It’s grown harder every year. Some years are better than others (less challenging students, fewer difficult parents, stronger administrators), but expectations placed on teachers continue to rise…friends leave the profession for jobs that are ‘easier’ and better paying.”

Another wrote of the struggle of having to work two jobs her entire career as a Special Education teacher to make ends meet. Her teacher’s salary alone does not cover all of her day to day costs.

One teacher shared that she and her husband are both public school educators, with three master’s degrees and a doctorate among them, and after their bills are paid – health care premiums, mortgage, car payments, and utility bills – they have a combined $125 a week to pay for groceries, gas, and other expenses.

I believe in our public schools and in the teachers who serve in them.

Last week, I made a statement at our Governing Board meeting expressing my support of public education.

Our public schools were established to make education universally available to all children, free of charge.

And in those schools, our teachers go above and beyond to create safe and vibrant learning environments for all students. I will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with those who fight to protect the good work that

we do, because in spite of our many challenges, in the end, we have great teachers who continue to work tirelessly to keep the hope of public education alive.

Please join me in celebrating our Kyrene teachers.

In commemoration of “Teacher Appreciation Week,” I am asking you to go to kyrene.org/AmazingTeachers and nominate a deserving teacher. They will be entered into a drawing and 10 will be selected for a special recognition at the May 9 Governing Board meeting.

It’s our small way of saying “thank you.”

As the governing board proclamation states, “teachers continue to influence us long after our school days are only memories.”

And for that, we are eternally grateful.

-Dr. Jan Vesely is the Kyrene School District superintendent.

We were champions once … and we keep coming back for more

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Tribune Columnist

The sickness hits me annually come mid-April. I scan the headlines, pore over the box scores, check the standings on the sports page. Then, the inevitable happens, as it did last Sunday for a half-hour. I flip on a few innings of Diamondbacks baseball.

Maybe this occurred because it was Easter and I had “He has risen” on my mind. Or maybe I am nothing if not hard-headed, a man incapable of admitting the truth even when it’s staring him in the face.

To be an Arizona sports fan is to be doomed to suffering. Let’s face it: Our professional sports franchises, of which there are four, are not exactly racking up championships at a furious pace. Currently, 13 major metro areas host professional baseball, basketball, football and hockey teams. Each of our dozen rival metros boasts at least five

championships, except for Minneapolis, which has only two Twins World Series crowns to show for its efforts. The Valley? We have one championship –that magical 2001 Diamondbacks win over the New York Yankees.

How sad is that? Even noted meccas like Milwaukee, Tampa and Anaheim, which don’t have all four sports, have two titles to their name.

Then there’s New York, which has won an absurd 46 professional sports championships dating back to the 1903 World Series. Boston? 36 titles. Chicago? 27. Even Philly, a town that prides itself on its capacity to suffer, has nine championships to its name.

Still, we Arizonans keep coming back for more. On Sunday, the Dbacks beat the Dodgers 3-1. As I write, the team is 10-6, good enough to tie for first place in the National League West. Unlike last year’s squad, which floundered early, the 2017 version has shown signs of life, enough to get me to a TV. Does that make me a front-runner, a

bandwagon fan? Indeed. Because I have been disappointed far too many times to continue to be a die-hard fan – short for fanatic – in the face of inevitable adversity.

The Suns lost me circa 2012, when they dismantled the most exciting team in basketball more thoroughly than the Trump Administration firing Obama appointees. The Cardinals never really had me. I retain a professional interest in the Arizona Coyotes’ future, given that the team has for years been a client of mine.

Each franchise demands my attention as their fortunes flow and ebb, but my scarred heart after two decades of crushed dreams simply cannot take any more disappointment.

And yet, if you asked me about my fondest memory of 22 years living here, my mind would surely track back to the big baseball stadium downtown, to a November night in 2001, to the seventh game of one of the greatest World Series ever played. I sat high in the stands

above right field that night, when Luis Gonzalez blooped a soft gamewinner over Derek Jeter’s head and the Diamondbacks vanquished New York four games to three. When the ball landed, I found myself bounding up and down uncontrollably and hugging the sweaty, 300-pound stranger in the row behind me.

We – this Valley, this land of heat, copper and desert – were champions once. We held a massive downtown parade. We lionized Gonzo, the Big Unit and Schilling. We gazed lovingly at that hideous Commissioner’s Trophy. We had our one lonely title.

Every year, come April, I tell myself that if it happened once, it can happen again. And I find myself before the TV, with the voice of Michael Corleone from the “Godfather III” in my head.

“Just when I thought I was out,” says the great Pacino, “they pull me back in.”

Yes, yes they do.

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

‘It seems that True Life has a complaint with the seller’

BY MICHAEL HINZ AFN Guest Writer

Iread with interest the article on True Life seeking to pursue covenants, conditions and restrictions change in state Superior Court.

Three things struck me.

First is that the campaign to change CC&Rs simply stresses the change to CC&Rs with no guarantee as to the final form of the development.

Schools, open spaces and the “farm” itself are only proposed and don’t appear binding. I am wondering how such an agricultural enterprise meets standards for water use and can meet the obvious economic demands of a “farm.” What guarantees have been given?

Second, I was surprised by the

willingness of their senior vice president, Aidan Barry, to state that the Save the Lakes organization is “spreading false information whenever possible.” In other words, it’s the homeowners who lie and are somehow damaging the developer.

The statement means that the very homeowners who have been mistreated and lied to and cheated out of the equity of their homes are the liars. That those who sank their retirement and final years on the promise of perpetuity and retirement homes on a golf course are the villains in a land grab.

In fact, they are victims. Not to mention the collateral damage created within the entire community as homeowners and HOAs fighting among themselves to figure out how to deal with this type of scurrilous development.

Lastly and most importantly, I am thunderstruck by the absolute arrogance of claiming that the site is so damaged, so degraded and so unprofitable that they must get a change in court to because of a “material change in circumstances.”

This “material change in circumstance” was wholly self-inflicted by Mr. Wilson Gee, the previous owner.

It seems that True Life has a complaint with the seller, who willfully destroyed the course and then sold to True life under the pretext it could be redeveloped because the course is destroyed.

Perhaps True Life should cut their losses and claw back against Mr. Gee in court for the conveyance of this “pig in a poke.” True life is nothing less than opportunistic for blaming the victim senior citizens, many of whom are well

beyond 70.

The whole situation stinks; it is carpetbagging of the worst order.

The Kafkaesque nature of True Life’s position is not amusing; it is disturbing. It proves to the community the negative impact unscrupulous golf course owners and opportunistic, aggressive developers and the damage they wreak – both proclaiming that they are now saving the very community that , by their wanton actions, they helped destroy.

Mr. Gee owns Ahwatukee Country Club, Foothills Golf Course and Club West Golf Course. Their current poor condition of these courses speak for themselves, and our future.

and

Committee.

True Life exec: Lakes course ‘is not economically viable’

BY AIDAN BARRY AFN Guest Writer

Save The Lakes (“STL”) says, “That the judge in the civil case has agreed to hear True Life’s request that he change the CC&R’ s because of a

material change in circumstances.”

Further, STL states that “it is the company’s (True Life’s) failure to get 51 percent of the consent-form signatures...” Clearly, STL continues to make up false information wherever possible to suit their goal of stopping our proposed project.

We are the defendants in a lawsuit brought by two individuals who want the previous failed golf course rebuilt, blade for blade.

The “material change in circumstances” is a legal concept that has nothing to do

with the voting procedure. There are two ways to change the CC&R’s as outlined within the original documents themselves.

One is to get 51 percent of the benefitted parties under the CC&R’s

Michael Hinz is a member of the CLUB West HOA board

the Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning

Make True Life restore Ahwatukee Lakes golf course

Dear Editor:

Once again True Life Companies finds it necessary to change its argument in a desperate effort to reverse its deal-gone-bad after deliberately ruining the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course to justify their crammed housing plans.

Their development would jam 300 homes into 90 acres and launch 600 more cars onto the already crowded Ahwatukee streets every day.

Their “vision” would reduce 100 acres of clean air green space by 90 percent, add immense pollution caused by tight housing and decrease existing property values and quality of life (which has already occurred since the closing of the golf course).

The law guarantees the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course property must remain 100 acres of open green space with a public golf course unless the majority of residents sign away their right. This is not happening.

The new argument? True Life says a standalone golf course cannot be profitable and has petitioned a single judge to change the law just for them. What is particularly dishonest is that True Life operates other golf courses. They know that golf is a $2-billion-a-year industry in Arizona but they want to fill their coffers via housing on this site.

True Life should be denied any change in CC&R’s and ordered to restore ALGC to a reasonable golf course property. They (and previous owner Wilson Gee) deliberately trashed it in violation of existing law and they should be made to obey the law like everyone else.

-Peter Longo, life member, PGA of America

LAKES

from page 36

to consent to a change and the second is to request the court to change them in the event that there is a change in circumstances that precludes the original purpose of the restrictions from being realized.

The two procedures are mutually exclusive.

Given the fact that operating a golf course on this specific property is not economically viable and given the large investment that would have to occur to re-construct the golf course, TTLC does not believe any reasonable owner/ investor of the property would or could operate a stand-alone golf course on the property.

Thus, given the status of the property (as a failed business and a closed golf course), the original purpose of the restriction cannot be realized because nobody is going to spend the necessary money to try to operate a stand-alone golf course on the property when it will fail again economically.

Thus, the CC&R’s need to be modified.

The trial date is now set for October 2017. We are diligently preparing for

that trial date and look forward to the opportunity of being heard through this process.

We will do everything in our power to prevail in defending our rights as property owners in this case.

Between now and the trial date, we will continue to collect signed consent forms with the goal of reaching approval of 51 percent of the benefited parties.

We are humbled and appreciative of the over-2,000 signatures gathered to date.

We encourage those members of the ABM that want the opportunity to increase their property values to send in their signed consent forms.

TTLC continues to spend money on the property to stay in compliance with the Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance, but we feel we are being held to a different standard than other places in Phoenix.

We bought a closed failed business and because of the complaint based nature of the ordinance we are under heightened scrutiny.

It is a shame that other parts of Phoenix (even within the same district) are not held to the same standard of care.

-Aidan

Barry is senior vice president of The True Life Companies.

Ahwatukee woman’s business helps people develop their style

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

When clothing designer Rachel Zoe said, “Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak,” she could have been talking about Ashley Krupnik of Ahwatukee. The 29-year-old mother of four runs a business that helps people decide what to say.

Her Metro Image Consulting is all about helping people build their selfconfidence by guiding them through the fashion styles that best project who they are and want to be.

“Lots of people here starting businesses want their personal style to match their brand,” she explained. “I can help with that. Also, lots of clientele need styling services for events and such. I also get a lot of women who just want to step up their game and figure out what their personal style actually is so they can focus on that.”

“I love the people here and I am excited to serve them in this way, helping them transform into the most fabulous version of themselves, with the confidence and

style to make a killer impression every time they walk into a room,” she said.

And if you think her services are just for women, guess again.

Her first customer was her husband of more than 11 years, Tim, who, she said, “will always be my favorite client.”

She accomplishes her mission by offering a range of services.

Her “Shop Your Closet” service involves visiting a client’s home and “styling outfits for them from things already in their closet.”

“It’s a great way to start if you’ve never worked with an image consultant before,” she explained.

style.

“We chat about their styling woes, needs and questions, and I show them how to style themselves based on their body type. Many people think they know how

to dress for their body type but are often not quite hitting the mark. I educate them. I show them how to do it.”

After such a session, she makes notes

Ahwatukee resident carves out successful business

BY BRENT RUFFNER

Uneven stacks of old, broken down wood pallets sit outside Eric Kruse’s Ahwatukee backyard. But they aren’t headed for the scrap heap.

Instead, each section of scrap will be transformed into a unique work of art. Kruse rescues wood pallets from a few nearby stores and uses them as tools for his woodworking trade. Otherwise, the pallets would be discarded and thrown out.

His business, Signed in Wood, offers customers hand-carved works that range from portraits of family pets to landscapes.

Kruse, who works full-time for a furniture-manufacturing business, gets his ideas from pictures he takes while on business trips.

Some ideas for his work come from landscapes in Iowa and Buffalo, N.Y.

“As I’m driving around, I always stop and take pictures.” Kruse said.

The woodcarver’s work is already attracting attention.

He carves, sands and stains the repurposed wood in a hobby that started with carving out a single bean-bag toss board for the popular tailgating game Cornhole. He also did a 5-by-4-foot landscape scene of a cabin in the woods for a family friend.

In less than a year, Kruse has made 50some pieces and some of his work has been put on display at the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA.

“One, it’s not going to the landfill,” Kruse said. “It’s not getting thrown away

and sends them to the client with personalized tips and a few custom colors

(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Ashley Krupnik of Ahwatukee and her Metro Image Consulting service says she can help men and women pick the right wardrobe and accessories to develop a distinctive

AFN Contributor

(Brent Ruffner/AFN Contributor)

Ahwatukee resident Eric Kruse uses a router to carve out a Volkswagen bus.

that she thinks “will always be a ‘win’ for them.”

She offers a follow-up service that consists of a four-step process, conducted in one-hour meetings each week for a month, that involve talking with the client to identify a personal style, evaluating “inherent colors” based on their biological traits, evaluating their current wardrobe and then making a shopping list and taking them on a guided tour through stores to find the best outfits and accessories for them.

“I help them come up with an individualized color palette of all their best colors,” she said. “We also talk about color psychology, which is learning to wear certain colors to portray yourself in a certain way, or to have a certain effect on the viewer. It’s really fascinating how our brains process colors.”

As for the tour through stores, she said, “It’s basically teaching them how to shop for their style, the clothing with the best cut and color for them. Then following that, I am also always available to my clients via text message if they ever have questions while their styling themselves or out shopping.”

A graduate of Horizon Honors Secondary School in Ahwatukee, Krupnik is an artist and certified color consultant who had tried to get into animation work.

Unable to find that kind of work in Arizona and not willing to relocate to California, she began the image consultant business partly because “I have been styling friends and family just for fun for years.”

“It is the perfect business for me, and everyone I’ve worked with thus far has confirmed that,” she said.

Although there are a number of fashion consultants in the Valley, she is undaunted.

“I have a mantra: ‘I am innovative, competent and fearless.’ I look in the mirror and say this to myself daily, sometimes many times per day. I know it sounds cheesy, but hey, it works. In the past few months that I’ve been saying this to myself, I watched my business explode in more ways than I could have imagined.”

Next week she is starting a new service with a free fashion show called “Sip and Style” at 7 p.m. May 11 at Blooming Beets restaurant at the east end of the fashionable Shoppes at Casa Paloma, on the southeast corner of Priest and Ray roads, Chandler.

Partly a celebration of the first-year anniversary of the Tukee Sisters in

Business – a network of local businesses owned by women – the show will feature local clothing designers Mabella Chic, Northern Clover and True Reflections Boutique as well as Sadara’s Jewelry and Pandora’s Purse. It is sponsored by Golden Light Photography, another Ahwatukee business owned by local resident Amy Aranyosi.

“She and I have created new drinks for Blooming Beets that will be released and added to the menu at Blooming Beets the night of the show,” Krupnik said, “The great thing about my show is that we have something for all women. True Reflections clothing is mostly for teensyoung adult, Mabella Chic is our “it

mom” brand for women in their 20s, 30s and 40s. And Northern Clover is for the more mature ladies 45 and up.”

This new part of Krupnik’s business is aimed at spotlighting local high-quality clothing designers, giving attendees first dibs on new items before the general public and teaching women how to style the clothes to enhance their image.

“I am excited for the potential there,” Krupnik said. “Having talked to several designers about it, they are also really excited. I would love my name to be synonymous with ‘style’ in Ahwatukee” Information: metroimageconsulting. com, metroimageaz.wordpress.com or metroimage@gmail.com

Dr. Mary M. Peters, DPM

Frank G. Maben, DPM

(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Ashley Krupnik of Ahwatukee, here holding her daughter Betsy, helps men and women develop an image to project to the world.

WOODWORKER

because all those pallets are sitting there to be picked up by the garbage man.”

Creating art is a family tradition for Kruse.

He learned from his father and grandfather, who were both woodworkers. In the past, he has done drawings and sketches of landscape scenes.

He said he likes the unpredictable element of working with wood. He goes through trial and error depending on the type of wood and whether the specific piece has some sort of residue on it. He said he works with wood types that include everything from oak to pine.

Kruse picks out pieces of wood and uses self-taught methods to stain woods in organic pigment types such as cayenne pepper and vinegar depending on whether he wants the work to be dark or of a lighter color.

“What’s cool about it oftentimes is that sometimes, it surprises you,” Kruse said. “You have a piece of wood and on the top it’s just gray. But you start cutting into it and there’s reds and different colors for each pallet.”

Custom works take about 10 hours and prices range from $40 to $500. Customers can expect Kruse to

labor over how each piece turns out. He often makes adjustments midway through - like sanding surfaces down or lightening or darkening the wood. He uses computer-aided drafting tools and programs like Photoshop to give himself a starting point.

“I like to see what I’m doing before I do it,” Kruse said.

Signed in Wood has been featured in the Ahwatukee Foothills Festival of Lights and Kruse plans to display his work in a few more similar events this year.

He looks forward to creating more custom pieces for his clients. In some cases, he does an unveiling where customers see their artwork for the first time in dramatic fashion.

“The fun part is when someone has an idea and I can bring that to life for them,” he said.

Information: signedinwood.com, eric@ signedinwood.com or 480-283-7238.

(Brent Ruffner/AFN Contributor)

Eric Kruse's hand-carved portraits are becoming a hit. His customer works range in price from $40 to $500.

SRP gets failing grade for transparency of online financial records

BY ARREN KIMBEL-SANNIT Cronkite News

Arizona’s Salt River Project earned failing marks for the transparency of its online financial records, one of more than half of the special districts nationwide to fail in a new report on districts that provide services independently of state or local jurisdictions.

The report by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group said the SRP Agricultural Improvement and Power District, which spent $3.7 billion in 2013, met basic legal standards by posting annual audited financial reports online. But SRP otherwise failed to make accessible recent budgets or dollar-for-dollar checkbooklevel spending, the report said.

“The autonomy of special districts has led to them falling off the map in terms of spending transparency,” said Michelle Surka, an author of the US-PIRG report.

The lack of transparency for these special districts means it is difficult for taxpayers to tell what the districts’ sometimes-considerable budgets go toward and what they get in return, she said.

An SRP spokeswoman defended the

A.T. Still Osteopathic University opens center for injuries

A.T. Still University Osteopathic Medicine Center Arizona has opened at 5845 E. Still Circle in Mesa.

Doctors there will provide osteopathic manipulative treatment to address a variety of problems, including injuries related to sports or the performing arts. The center will also offer specialized services for children with special needs. Information and scheduling: 480-2488198.

AlphaGraphics and Brand X merge, announce contest

AlphaGraphics on University has acquired Tempe-based Brand X Custom T-Shirts.

To celebrate the move, they are offering a brand makeover worth $25,000. The rebrand prize includes a $15,000 brand refresh including a new logo, brand story and collateral design. AlphaGraphics on

agency, saying it meets legal standards.

“SRP is not subject to Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB) accounting standards and therefore do not issue a Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) using GASB specifications,” Patty Garcia-Likens said.

“We issue our financial statements using Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) standards and receive an audit opinion from PricewaterhouseCoopers each year stating we follow the requirements of those standards,” her statement said.

received grades of F. And while Surka said most districts operate in good faith, even if they are sometimes opaque, there are examples of fraud.

In some cases, developers pay people to move to an area so they can vote to create a special district that would facilitate construction, Surka said.

She said increased transparency “discourages wasteful spending and enforces citizen engagement.”

The report does not suggest that any of the districts studied, including SRP, have done anything illegal. In PIRG’s view, not posting more detailed finance reports makes it harder to tell if the utility was acting properly or not.

SRP is one of 326 such special districts in Arizona, but the only one in the state covered in the report, which looked at the 79 highest-spending districts nationwide. It looked at the most recent reports available online.

Special districts like SRP, which include anything from fire protection districts to port authorities to utilities,

are either created by legislatures or voters in the would-be districts in order to provide services that state or municipal governments can’t or won’t.

By definition, they operate outside the bounds of traditional governmental structures, sometimes even straddling multiple states, Surka said.

But this creates an atmosphere where oversight can be difficult – which is why more than half the districts in the report

BUSINESS BRIEFS

University will provide a $10,000 custom package of printed materials, which the winner can choose from custom apparel, signage, printed collateral and other select products.

Businesses are asked to submit a 450word summary detailing why they are deserving of the brand refresh and how they plan to execute. Submissions can be entered at AZBrandMakeover.com before May 11, and finalists will be interviewed before the final decision is made May 18.

Goodwill merges operations in Central, Northern Arizona

Goodwill Industries of Central Arizona and Goodwill Industries of Northern Arizona have combined operations. The new organization will be called Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona and will include 82 stores, three clearance centers, 22 career centers and employ over 3,500 employees throughout the Phoenix metro area, Prescott, Yuma, Flagstaff, Sedona, Cottonwood, Kingman,

Lake Havasu and Bullhead City.

Over the next few weeks, Goodwill will close the Northern Arizona stores one at a time for a few days, then re-open later in the week.

Press Coffee Roasters eyes new store in Tempe this spring

Press Coffee Roasters is opening a store east of ASU’s Tempe campus at 1221 E. Apache Blvd., at the Nexa Apartments.

The 1,300-square-foot space is expected to open in June. Press is currently hiring to fill barista and management positions. Applications can be submitted at any Press Coffee.

Rue21 clothing retailer closing Mesa store, hundreds of others

Clothing retailer Rue21 is closing its Mesa store amid 400 of closures nationwide.

The planned closures come after reports that the privately held retailer had $824 million in debt. Rue21

The standards set for special districts vary by state, and some states are more meticulous in their financial transparency, the report says.

Addressing these inconsistencies – first by actually ensuring citizens know what special districts are and which they live in – is key, Surka said.

“We really want states to enact consistent and formal rules when it comes to reporting,” she said. “To really make special districts’ transparency uniform and consistent, there needs to be legislation of some kind.”

specializes in young men’s and women’s apparel.

The store at Mesa Riverview will be closing.

ASU picks U-Haul Leader as 2017 Executive of the Year

Edward J. "Joe" Shoen, a business leader with 30 years of executive experience, has been chosen the 2017 Executive of the Year Award by Arizona State University's W. P. Carey School of Business.

The award honors business leaders who have created and sustained superior organization performance, and whose presence exemplifies a model for future business leaders.

Shoe is president, chairman and CEO of AMERCO, the parent company of U-Haul International. He is the 34th executive of the year chosen by the Dean's Council, a national group of prominent executives who advise the W. P. Carey School of Business.

(Special to AFN)

The Salt River Project got a failing grade for the transparency of its online financial records in a new report, which said more than half the 79 special districts it studied nationwide failed.

Cactus Sports celebrates 25 years as ASU booster

BY RYAN CLARKE

AFN Staff Writer

Troy Scoma was a business student at Arizona State University when he and his brother Jeff opened up Cactus Sports in 1992.

Now, the retail store is celebrating its 25th anniversary as a mainstay in Tempe.

Scoma is now the sole owner of Cactus Sports after buying out his brother in 2001.

Business is something that remains a common thread in their family. Scoma’s parents had businesses of their own in his home state of Illinois, and the brothers worked for their mom and dad until they were teenagers.

Three years into his time at ASU, Troy jumped right into his desired career field when Jeff approached him about opening the store. Jeff had another retail venture going on before Cactus Sports, but that didn’t end up working out.

“I helped him get it open that first year even though I was still finishing school,” Scoma said. “After I graduated, he closed his store that wasn’t doing well and we

became partners.”

Scoma’s love of sports weaves in with his passion for business. He’s been a diehard ASU football fan since attending the university and said his fandom has only grown stronger as an alumnus. He hasn’t missed more than three home games since January 1995.

Through all the seasons filled with inspiration and disappointment, Cactus Sports was a constant for the Scoma brothers. Work didn’t feel like work –even if the duo was doing all they could to best the competition.

“You hear these cliché stories about people who get up and love what they do every day,” Scoma said. “I’m so lucky to be that guy – there aren’t many days in the past 25 years that I haven’t loved coming in to work.”

The Tempe area has changed dramatically since Cactus Sports started. Businesses – especially in the retail realm – have disappeared or been replaced. Through all the changes, including a move to its newest location in 2013 that doubled the size of their retail floor, Cactus Sports has thrived.

Scoma said the reason for his business’s

longstanding success is the personal relationships they build with customers, along with exclusive products you can’t find at competitors.

When he sees a customer at a bar wearing a shirt that he designed, Scoma makes sure to buy them a drink and get to know their story – the kind of friendly gesture he claims you can’t find anywhere else.

Engraining itself within the Tempe community has allowed Cactus Sports to stake its place among legacy businesses in the area.

Whether Scoma is out buying a round for a group wearing jerseys he designed, or the store is promoting itself on social media, Cactus Sports has a wide reach and has become the go-to for ASU fans in search of Sun Devil gear.

According to Scoma, this wouldn’t be possible without a staff he calls “phenomenal.” He’s confident that whenever he decides to step away from

the business – if it’s in five years or another 25 – it will be left in good hands.

“I keep thinking about when I’m going to pseudo-retire,” he said. “I still love what I do, but I’m approaching 50 in a year and a half.

“As long as I’m still happy, I don’t see why I couldn’t keep doing it.”

(Brent Ruffner/AFN Contributor)

Cactus Sports owner Troy Scoma credits his "phenomenal" staff for the growth and success his store has enjoyed for a quarter-century.

At Home

5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe. 480-214-7328

smoore@athome.com athome.com. At Home is the home décor superstore that provides endless possibilities at an unbeatable value. At Home brings more than 30 years of passion and experience to the ever-evolving home décor category.

Main Street Ahwatukee

Brought to you by the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce

Desert Soul Boutique

Peter Piper Pizza

(Kim Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Having a good time at the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce golf tournament April 28 are, from left, Wilson Bibleheimer, Kirk Thompson, Jay Beacher and Bryon Gribbons.

Eden Law Office

(ABM)

Ahwatukee Board of Management

4700 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee. 480-893-3431

shyden@ahwatukeehoa.com, ahwatukeehoa.com.

An HOA with 5,200 homes and an RV storage facility, ABM also owns and manages the Ahwatukee Community Swim & Tennis Center and was awarded Small Business of the Year 2015 by the Ahwatukee Chamber.

Varsity Termite & Pest Control

6056 E. Baseline Road, Mesa. 480-694-4007

varsitytermiteandpestcontrol.com

Family-owned and operated termite and pest control business with over 21 years of experience bringing professional working values with unmatched customer service.

First Bank

3945 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. 602-333-7781

efirstbank.com

FirstBank has grown through consumer and commercial lending, innovative banking products and services and a high regard for community investment. FirstBank now has over $15 billion in assets and over 120 locations in Colorado, Arizona, and California.

On the Border

Mexican Grill and Cantina

5005 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. 602- 247-7550 ontheborder.com

Come to On the Border and enjoy authentic Mexican food favorites, like mesquite-grilled fajitas, tacos or one of our famous margaritas.

‘Experience Fabulous’ with Chamber’s Spa, Sips and Style

BY SARA FUHRMARK AFN Guest Writer

Are you looking for a fun girls’ night out with some friends? How about a night of shopping, sipping beverages, receiving treatments, and learning about new beauty and healthy products?

On Thursday, May 4, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce Women in Business is sponsoring a new event called Spa, Sips, and Style… Experience Fabulous! at Ahwatukee Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive.

It promises to be an evening of fun, with informative and interactive visits to numerous different booths represented by local businesses, many of whom are right here in Ahwatukee and others from outside the area.

Vendor booths will include an experience that may be a tangible service, such as hand/chair massage

or product sampling; education such as information on key health and wellness, fashion and other topics; or even the opportunity to make something simple and take it home.

Fabulous raffle items will be available from all the vendors, who have personally selected or crafted their items for attendees. These raffle items will benefit our Ahwatukee Chamber Community Foundation, including our signature program, the Ahwatukee Young Entrepreneur’s Academy. Behind the scenes of this upcoming event are co-chairs Dr. Nicole Gerard, owner of Dr. Nicole Gerard PLLC; Samantha Thompson from Thompson Family ; and Janet Schwab, Women in Business program sponsor who owns Elements Massage of Casa Paloma. Additional assistance is being provided from the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Lindy Lutz Cash. These women have been creating

this new event – as well as planning monthly events for women in business throughout the year that include networking, Business Spotlights at individual businesses and roundtable luncheons.

If you are interested in being a part of the Women in Business events, please contact the chamber at events@ahwatukeechamber.com or 480-753-7676.

Spa, Sips and Style….Experience Fabulous! tickets can be purchased at the door for $35, which includes one drink ticket and refreshments, along with all of the experiences.

Attendees who visit 10 booths will be entered in a drawing for a gift basket. Come for some fun and special experiences, along with supporting a wonderful cause, the Ahwatukee Chamber Community Foundation.

We look forward to seeing you there.

SHOP LOCAL EVENTS

Keep Phoenix Beautiful. Inc.

Kyrene School District

On The Border Mexican Grill True Choice Benefits. LLC

Walter Rapacz, DDS

Freeway Chevron

JMW Construction Co. Inc.

American Homefront Realty

United Brokers GroupChristie Ellis

Kent Johnson

Foothills Women’s Club

1 Stop Signs

Freeway Chevrolet NEW MEMBERS RENEWING MEMBERS

Formoreinfoontheseandotherupcoming events,visitahwatukeechamber.com.

Ribbon cutting UFC Gym

3830 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Noon, Thursday, May 4.

Women in Business Spa, Sips and Style

Foothills Golf Club

2201 E. Clubhouse Drive, Ahwatukee.

5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 4. Pre-sale ticket: Members, $25; non-members, $30. Sponsored by: At Home

Wake-Up Ahwatukee Morning Mixer

Midfirst Bank

4750 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

8-9 a.m. Tuesday, May 9. $5, members; $15, general admission. Sponsored by Elements Massage

Ribbon cutting Music Maker

3233 E. Chandler Blvd. Ahwatukee. Noon, Tuesday, May 9.

Ribbon cutting Desert Bloom Pediatrics

13838 S. 46th Place, Ahwatukee. Noon, May 11.

Ribbon cutting Setay Dance and Fitness

7430 S. 48th St., Phoenix. Noon, May 16.

-Sara Fuhrmark is the Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber’s marketing and events coordinator.

(Kim Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Denny Sikkila, left, and John Naumann display the trophies they won at the Ahwatukee Chamber golf tournament.

SPIRITUAL SIDE

Reaping what we sow works both good and bad ways

BY LISA JISA AFN Guest Writer

Where I live in the Midwest, spring has definitely sprung. Tulips and daffodils have pushed up through the dirt in yards everywhere, and apple tree branches are spilling over with pink, white, and magenta blossoms. Soon farmers will begin planting in the fields. I remember a saying from my childhood that corn around here should be “knee high by the 4th of July.” Still not ready to be picked, but on its way to maturity.

It sounds obvious, but I expect corn to grow in a field that has been planted with corn, just as I would expect carrots to grow in a field planted with carrots. We can’t see what is going on underneath the dirt until the day a plant springs forth. Whatever grows is whatever has been

SATURDAY, MAY 20

PACKING PARTY FOR KIDS SET

The Operation Christmas Child South Mountain Team will is planning a packing party to get a jumpstart on filling gift-wrapped shoeboxes with presents for poor children around the world at Christmas. The party will focus on packing gift items for boys ages 10-14. The team, which includes volunteers from Ahwatukee, welcomes newcomers and they can sign up on signupgenius.com and search for “spring packing party.”

DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

MEET THE AUTHOR

Kay West, who with her husband, John, left Ahwatukee to be missionaries in southern Africa for almost seven years, will discuss and sign copies of her first book, “Refiner’s Fire,” which is based on their experiences. Purchase proceeds help Swaziserve Missions.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m. May 23, Bridgeway Community Church, 2420 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. Information: createspace.com/6649422.

SUNDAYS

BIBLE EXPLORED

This biblical scripture study embraces a spirit-filled, intellectually honest and understandable exploration of God’s Word. Lessons will combine Christian and

planted. Or to put it another way, you reap what you sow. It might not happen right away, but it will happen eventually, whether good or bad. Some people might say, “What goes around comes around,” or refer to karma.

But there really is a biblical principle to this idea. Galatians 6:7 says, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”

In Genesis 27, Jacob tricked his brother Esau into handing over his birthright for a bowl of stew. Years later, Jacob’s fatherin-law deceived him by giving him Leah for his wife instead of Rachel (Genesis 29:25). Jacob reaped what he had sown.

In the book of Esther, the evil Haman built gallows to hang the innocent Mordecai, but in the end Haman was the one who was killed on it. Haman reaped what he had sown.

The principle of reaping and sowing works with good things, too. Joseph was an honest and upright man, even though

he was unfairly accused of attacking his boss’ wife and thrown into prison for it.

Joseph’s good character helped to eventually put him in charge of Egypt, second in command only to the Pharaoh. Joseph reaped what he had sown. (Genesis 39-41)

I was recently looking through a devotional book called “Strength for the Climb,” written by Kristin Armstrong (ex-wife of Lance). She had a very interesting thought on this reaping and sowing principle that gave me a bit of an aha moment.

How often we get in God’s way under the presumption of being helpful and compassionate, but in reality, we are, as she puts it, meddling in “God’s lesson plan for another soul.”

Think about that idea for a minute.

With the intent of being kind, a parent bails out a child time and time again for being tardy with homework, delaying a lesson that will eventually catch up one

FAITH CALENDAR

Jewish theology along with Bible history, archaeology and linguistics for a rich learning experience.

DETAILS>> 9:15 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579, mvlutheran.org.

HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE

High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together.

DETAILS>> 5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or email joel@ horizonchurch.com.

KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE

Children can learn and experience Jewish life. Chabad Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays.

DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@ chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.

SUNDAY CELEBRATION SERVICE

Inspirational messages and music to lift your spirit. A welcoming community committed to living from the heart. Many classes and events offered. We welcome you!

DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-792-1800, unityoftempe.com.

MONDAYS

JOIN CHRIST-CENTERED YOGA

This Flow 1-2 class (intermediate) is free and open to the community.

DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. Greg Battle at 480-7596200 or gbattle@moutainpark.org.

CLASS TARGETS THE GRIEVING

Classes for those grieving over death or divorce.

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.

TUESDAYS

GRIEFSHARE

Mountain Park Community Church is offering an ongoing GriefShare programs to help people deal with the pain of losing a loved one.

DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m., 2408 E. Pecos Road, Ahwatukee. To register: mountainpark.org and click on Launch. Information: Alex at 480-759-6200

FINDING HEALING FOR PAIN

HOPE, an acronym for “Help Overcome Painful Experiences,” offers support for men and women who seek God’s grace and healing.

DETAILS>> 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. mountainpark.org.

day when he is late turning in a project for work and loses his job.

Or the person who covers up and makes excuses for an abusive or alcoholic spouse for years, delaying the natural consequences to bad behavior. These rescue-type actions might appear to be helpful, when in reality they are messing with someone reaping what they have sown.

With God’s help and a whopping dose of discernment for each situation, I need to pray for others, then possibly step aside and let them reap what they have sown while I focus on sowing true seeds of kindness, love, forgiveness, faith, etc. Who’s with me?

2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”

-Former Ahwatukee resident Lisa Jisa can be reached at lisa.jisa@gmail.com.

SENIORS ENJOY ‘TERRIFIC TUESDAYS’

The program is free and includes bagels and coffee and a different speaker or theme each week. Registration not needed.

DETAILS>> 10-11 a.m., Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588.

WEDNESDAYS

CHIMING CHERUBS

For younger kids, grades 2 and 3, who love music and want to learn to ring the handbells.

DETAILS>> 5:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

Celebrate Recovery is a biblical 12-step program that helps you find hope and healing from all of life’s hurts, habits and hang-ups.

DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

DIVORCE CARE

DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group that will walk alongside you and provide support through divorce or separation.

CALENDAR

from page 38

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

SANCTUARY CHOIR

This choir sings regularly at the 9:15 a.m. worship services and is a part of the Cantata Choir that presents around Christmas and Easter.

DETAILS>> 6:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY MEETS

Celebrate Recovery says it “brings your relationship with the Lord closer to your heart as it heals your hurts, habits and hang-ups.” Participants can discuss

issues ranging from feeling left out to addictions. “Nothing is too small or too large.”

DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. mvlutheran.org/ celebraterecovery or email cr@alphamvlc.com.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY OFFERED

Living Word Ahwatukee women’s Bible study and fellowship that offers “a short, low-key time of praise and worship in music and message.” It’s also an opportunity to meet other Christian women in Ahwatukee.

DETAILS>>10-11:30 a.m., Living Word Ahwatukee, 14647 W. 50th St., Suite 165, Ahwatukee. Free child care.

ANSWERS TO PUZZLE & SUDOKU ON PAGE

53

Out

Cinco de Mayo brings parties, food and drink deals to the region

By GetOut Staff

Often misidentified as Mexico’s Independence Day – which actually falls on Sept. 16 – Cinco de Mayo marks the defeat of the fearsome French army by a significantly smaller Mexican force at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

In the United States – and 155 years later – Cinco de Mayo tends to be a general celebration of Mexican culture, and an excuse to drink tequila and eat tacos. (Though, really, who needs an excuse?)

If it’s a party you’re after, the East Valley offers a few, and the biggest will be in downtown Tempe. Starting at noon Friday, May 5, C.A.S.A. at 6th Street and Mill Avenue shuts down 6th Street for a block party. DJs will spin tunes from the patio and you can get deals on tequila, tacos and 32-ounce buckets. Learn more at facebook. com/casa.sunba.tempe.

If that isn’t enough for you, directly across Mill, El Hefe & Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row also will host a block party. Six DJs will bring the music from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. You can also enjoy drink specials and

a chance to win a trip for two to Cancun. Learn more at dierkswhiskeyrow.com.

If you don’t want to make the trip to Tempe, a restaurant near you probably offers Cinco de Mayo specials.

Local chain Macayo’s, which includes locations in Ahwatukee, Tempe and Mesa, celebrates two ways. From now through Sunday, May 7, you can get $4 Dos Equis drafts, $8.99 1800 Margaritas and other drink deals.

Then, on May 6 and 7, enjoy Cinco Family Fun. From 1 to 3 p.m. get $1.99 kids meals and enjoy kid-friendly activities. Learn more at facebook.com/macayosrestaurants.

From 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on May 5, Dos Gringos – with locations in Mesa, Chandler and Tempe – offers live bands, DJs, games, tacos, and drink specials. Billed as the “#1 Cinco Party in the Valley” some locations do charge a cover. Learn more at facebook. com/dosgringos.

Arriba Mexican Grill, which heavily features spicy Hatch green chiles and offers locations in Ahwatukee and Gilbert, celebrates May 5 with food and drink specials, plus live entertainment, dancing and giveaways. Learn more at

arribamexicangrill.com.

If you want to hit the waterfront, highly regarded Mexican restaurant Valle Luna in Chandler offers special deals starting at 3 p.m. on May 5. A $5 cover charge gets you into the Cantina for music, interactive games, DJs and dancing. Learn more at facebook.com/

vallelunamexicanrestaurant.

If you don’t mind leaving the East Valley, the Valley’s largest Cinco de Mayo celebration takes place in downtown Phoenix at Cinco Phoenix. Enjoy a full street festival that offers live music, dance demonstrations, lots of food and fun. Learn more at cincophx.com.

Sangria Festival offers a tasty way to help cancer victims

By GetOut Staff

Chandler Rawhide is hosting a Mother’s Day weekend event that will offer patrons a tasty diversion and help brings some comfort to moms battling cancer.

The second annual Arizona Sangria Festival May 13-14 will benefit the Calling All Angels Foundation, which benefits single parents who are going through cancer and the debilitating effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

“We are striving to provide a support system in the homes of single parents to help them through this devastating disease and the treatments meant to cure it,” the foundation says on its website.

“We know life can’t go on as normal,

but to make it less stressful and easier for the parents and children whose lives have been touched by cancer.”

The Sangria Festival will run 2-9 p.m. Saturday, May 13, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, May 14 at Rawhide, 5700 W. North Loop, Chandler.

Along with a food truck festival, it will offer artisan-craft sangrias, tequila, craft and Mexican beers, all in combination with Copper Creek Cocktails. Admission – $40 in advance at arizonasangriafestival.com or $45 at the gate – includes a souvenir tasting glass, 15 sangria tastings, five craft-beer tastings, a flamenco dance expo and a flamenco guitar concert. Other entertainment also is being lined up.

“Being a single parent is hard

enough, let alone caring for your children when you are devastatingly ill during therapy,” said the foundation, which sends “angels” to homes to help take some of the burden and workload off the shoulders of cancer patients.

“The everyday tasks involved with being a single parent are overwhelming as it is. Imagine when you are so ill you can barely take care of yourself,” the foundation said. “Our mission is to alleviate some of the heartache involved with having cancer and going through the healing process.”

check out Rawhide’s annual Mother’s Day Brunch.

If you go on Mother’s Day, you can also

Admission for kids and nondrinkers is free, enabling children to enjoy Rawhide’s various Old West offerings.

(Special to AFN)

Tasty Mexican foot will be available at all Mexican restaurants in Ahwatukee Friday, May 5, to mark Cinco de Mayo.

(Special to AFN)

A ticket entitles patrons to 15 tastings at the Arizona Sangria Festival at Rawhide May 13-14.

Guadalupe,

Roses show off spring colors at Mesa Community College

BY RALPH ZUBIATE AFN Managing Editor

Pasadena has the Rose Bowl and Tournament of Roses Parade.

Portland is known as the Rose City. But the Valley is the nation’s center for rose bushes, growing 60 percent of the roses sold in the nation.

And now is the key time to take in all those blooms, at the Rose Garden at Mesa Community College, an East Valley showplace for the flowers and the largest rose garden in the Southwest.

“Mother Nature and the Almighty have a deal that they’re going to be glorious for Easter and after,” said Mike Cryer of the Mesa-East Valley Rose Society.

The Rose Garden was established in 1997 in partnership between Mesa Community College and the society. It was planted in phases, with the first and second phases planted from 1997 to 2000. Now, with four phases complete, there are nearly 9,000 roses of over 300 varieties.

Cryer has been working with the rose garden for 11 years as a volunteer.

Cryer is a “Deadhead,” which has nothing to do with Jerry Garcia, but instead with

flower pruning. Cryer and other volunteers trim the tops off bushes to create fewer but stronger blooms.

In January and February, they cut bushes down to about 3 feet tall and strip off all the leaves.

“That gives them a breather since we don’t have a winter,” Cryer said. “That keeps them from producing a rose hip.”

Rose hips are the fruit of rose bushes.

Growers don’t want rose hips because they keep the plant from flowering again, and they take a lot of effort to grow. The desert heat and sun is ideal for roses, and the plants bloom in April, May and June. With careful tending, they bloom again in October, November and December.

Steve Sheard, chairman of the board of the Rose Society, also enjoys the desert heat. He’s originally from the African nation of Zimbabwe. He left Africa to work with Motorola in London, then got transferred to Arizona in 1978. After he got sent back to London, he let his bosses know he’d love to go back to Arizona.

“Zimbabwe was sunny and hot. Arizona is sunny and hot. England was cold and damp,” he said. “Guess which I’d prefer.”

After settling in with Motorola in the East Valley, he planted some rose bushes

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(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Thousands of roses in scores of varieties are now on display at Mesa Community College.

ACROSS

1 Media watchdog org.

4 Basin accessory

8 Jason’s ship

12 Carte lead-in

13 Old woman’s home?

14 Cat call

15 Capital of Uzbekistan

17 Elliptical

18 Involve

19 Plant bristle

21 Mischievous tyke

22 Capital of Rwanda

26 Prologue

29 Fast flier

30 Director Howard

31 Little lamb’s owner

32 Prohibit

33 Ostentatious display

34 Santa winds 35 Blunder

36 Point of view

37 Capital of Mozambique

39 Ostrich’s cousin

40 Cal.’s ocean

41 Dutch exports

45 Shaving cream additive

48 Capital of Turkmenistan

50 Sunup

51 One-on-one battle

52 Wall climber

53 Newspaper pg.

54 Bizarre (Var.)

55 Gender

1 Karma

2 Family

3 Group of actors

4 Inuit

5 Puppy

6 A billion years

7 Gotten back 8 In the thick of

quickly 10 -- long way

35 Greek vowel 36 With complacence 38 Knock over 39 Bygone anesthetic 42 Sacred Egyptian bird 43 Macadamize

44 Charon’s river 45 Big bother 46 Once around the track 47 Have bills

49 Seek damages

These jalapeño poppers will make your fiesta festive

BY JAN D’ATRI AFN Contributor

Here’s a recipe you can Cinco your teeth into just in time for your Cinco

Sudoku

de Mayo celebrations this week! It’s one of my favorite go-to Southwestern appetizers, bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapeños. Make up a big batch and enjoy the flavor Fiesta!.

BACON-WRAPPED STUFFED JALAPEÑO POPPERS

Ingredients:

10-15 medium large jalapeño peppers

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened 3 drops liquid smoke, hickory or mesquite 1/2 cup crisp bacon chopped into bits 1 pound bacon uncooked, or 1 slice per jalapeño

8 oz. sliced pepper jack cheese Jalapeño jelly (optional)

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

• In a pot with boiling water, cook jalapeños (blanch) for about 3-4 minutes.

• When done, immediately drop the jalapeños into a bowl of ice water to shock, or stop the cooking process. When cool, slice jalapeños lengthwise from stem to tip, leaving the stem intact. Using a small spoon, scrape the seeds and veins from inside of jalapeños. Set aside.

• In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, liquid smoke and chopped bacon bits, mixing well. Fill each half of jalapeños with cream cheese mixture to just under the rim.

• Lay a piece of pepper jack cheese over the jalapeños, just to cover the cream cheese mixture. Wrap each jalapeños with a slice of bacon using a toothpick if necessary to secure the bacon.

• Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet.

• You can also use a flat rack placed inside a baking sheet to cut down on bacon grease. Bake for 30 minutes or until bacon is thoroughly cooked. Bacon wrapped stuffed jalapeños can be made ahead.

• When ready to serve, heat them up on a grill or in the oven and serve warm. Serve with jalapeños jelly.

Here’s the video link: jandatri.com/recipes/ jalapeno-poppers/?category_id=384

at his house

“I planted 20, and 18 died,” he said. “Being an engineer, that was not acceptable.”

He learned all he could about roses and now has 120 plants at home. He also grows all manner of fruit trees, such as papaya, fig, guava and of course citrus.

At one point, Sheard competed in rose shows.

“Once you’ve competed and you get your first blue ribbon, you’re hooked,” he said.

But he doesn’t really have the time to devote anymore.

“Now I compete to make the others look good.”

The MCC rose garden’s flowers all have stories and famous or amusing names attached. You’ll find Bob Hope, Ronald Reagan, Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand, Coretta Scott King and Neil Diamond. Also, Let Freedom Ring, Marmalade Skies, Sunshine Daydream, Over the Moon, Whimsy, Candyland and Drop Dead Red.

Some of the roses are legitimate pieces of history.

One group of purple roses are called the McCormick Rose.

Margaret Hunt McCormick, wife of

stagecoach to the territorial capital of Prescott to be planted at the Governor’s Mansion. The Mesa rose garden got a clipping from that bush in 2004.

Despite all the care that flowering plants would seem to need in the harsh desert, Sheard says it’s not that hard to grow roses.

“Roses are like teenagers,” he said. “They eat anything and a lot of it. They’re never not hungry.”

Sheard says the roses at MCC don’t take any special additives or treatments.

“We don’t do anything but wash them. They only need fertilizer. Just feed them.”

Sheard talks about expanding the rose garden further, maybe adding fruit trees and a shop.

“The president of MCC talks about the Rose Garden at MCC. Ultimately, it’s going to become MCC at the Rose Garden,” Sheard jokes.

the second Arizona territorial governor, Richard C. McCormick, had a clipping from a New Jersey rose bush taken by steamship

around South America all the way to Los Angeles.

There, the clipping was taken by

The Rose Garden, at 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa, is open to the public every day of the year at no charge.

(Kimberly Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Steve Sheard, Cheryl Doan and Mike Cryer of the Mesa-East Valley Rose Society tend to the roses at Mesa Community College.

Thunder Girls Lacrosse eyes championship qualifier

AFN News Staff

The Thunder Girls Lacrosse team is hoping to send their retiring coach off in grand style.

The team is undefeated and plays at 7:15 p.m. Thursday, May 4, at Pecos Park in Ahwatukee for a chance to play in the state championship at Arcadia High School in Phoenix at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 6.

A win would cap an extraordinary season for head coach Jeff Langley, who in five years has taken the team from an 0-12 start when it moved from Division II to Division I in 2012 to a 13-0 finish in the regular season this year.

“A state championship would be a great send off for him,” said team board member Justin Kincade – a sentiment echoed by board president Heather Cole.

“Increased participation, great coaching, determination and dedication of women athletes in the East Valley has built our program up to the point where we can now compete with historically power house schools like Chaparral, Xavier and

Pinnacle high schools – who we all swept in the regular season,” Cole said.

The team has been playing in Ahwatukee since 2004 but, in 2013, “experienced tremendous growth, nearly doubling the number of players and for the first time in club history was able

to have both varsity and junior varsity teams,” Kinkade said.

“Our 2017 roster of over 40 young athletes worked hard throughout the season. This year, our team is made up of girls that attend Desert Vista, Mountain Pointe and Corona Del Sol high schools.

Middle school girls that attend seventh and eighth grade at Altadena or Akimel. Centennial will need to play Ladies Lightening or East Valley until they are in ninth grade.”

Kinkade said that in Arizona, most young women begin playing the sport late in middle school or even for the first time once they are in high school.

“One of the league’s goals is to bring the sport to girls at a younger age,” Cole said.

“We promise to teach the fundamentals of the game and ensure all players have fun while working hard toward the team’s goals.”

Practice is generally held five days each week at local area parks, with Pecos Park being the Thunder’s home field for all games.

In addition to the Thunder Girls Team, other teams also play in Ahwatukee, including Ahwatukee Lightening Ladies Lacrosse (eighth grade and under), East Valley Girls Lacrosse Club, Desert Vista Boys Lacrosse Club, Ahwatukee

See LACROSSE on page 55

New Chandler gym offers fitness at ‘basketball heaven’

BY MELODY BIRKETT

AFN Contributor

Anew gym that just opened in Chandler offers a fitness program like none other in the East Valley. “This is the first basketball-focused fitness center,” said Jay Bhakta, the Gilbert man who owns PickUp USA at 221 E. Willis Road.

While many gyms provide basketball courts, PickUp USA offers organized, scored and officiated games by trained referees.

“It allows you to play on a team during timed, 10-minute games,” said Bhakta. “We’re the first franchisee here in Arizona. We’re expanding all over the U.S. right now.

“We run officiated games six days a week. We have two trained officials at all times on the court, rotated out. So, they’re fresh referees. It’s highly organized.”

Members simply put their name on a list, and are rotated into games.

“You get a real-game experience,” added Bhakta. “You get the buzzer beaters, the shot clocks, the fouls.

“There are 10-minute games so the winner stays in and you reset the clock and the next game comes in – 10 minutes, 10 minutes, back-to-back.”

PickUp USA doesn’t have “all the nuances of a regular pickup game like at a park – the foul calls, the hacking, the arguments and who’s next,” he added.

Pickup games are for anyone 15 and older but anyone as young as 5 can become a member and have access to the courts.

“We have the group-training sessions available to them,” said Bhakta. “They are basketball focused, hour-long boot camps. So, they work on different parts of the game for that hour: shooting, dribbling, passing.”

Gustine Crispin is already a member along with her sons.

“First of all, I love basketball,” Crispin said. “I’ve been playing basketball for over 40 years. And now I have kids. My boys are 13 and 11. And this is a great place for them … This is a basketball heaven.”

Her older son Jamison, who goes by Jam, has been playing basketball four years and likes the idea of getting a workout and fine-tuning his skills at a gym.

I’m sweating a lot.” He just wishes there were pickup games for his age group because he has a goal of

“I like it,” Jam said. “Plus, I usually don’t sweat when I go somewhere, but

(Special to AFN)

With 12 seniors moving on, the Thunder Girls Lacrosse board is hoping to attract new members to the team.

(Melody Birkett/AFN Contributor)

Jay Bhakta, left, Pickup USA gym owner, poses with GM Steve Lancaster.

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…

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Increased educational opportunity to every child in the state.

Parents can now choose the best education for their child.

Expanded access to quality education for all students regardless of income or zip code.

Karate Klips Unifying mind, body and spirit through karate-do

BY RICK SAVAGIAN AFN Guest Writer

The art of karate of karate-do, (emptyhanded way) has mesmerized people for centuries for many reasons. For some, it was the allure of learning an ancient Asian selfdefense, some it was the discipline of the mind it brought, and while for others it was the spiritual side.

In ancient times in Japan when a person practiced it, it was part of their culture and part of their heritage. The lessons it taught were passed on from generation to generation.

When a person is training in karate, they are taught to be body aware. Through repetition of movements, working with different people and learning to push past with physical barriers that the training can bring, a student becomes physically aware.

They learn about training reaction time, coordination, the importance of breath and how the biomechanics of the body work with movement as well as developing cardio, strength and flexibility. By training in a martial art such as karate, the student becomes very in touch with their bodies as well as how to work with other body types as well.

The mind connection part of karate is taught from the moment a student bows on to the dojo floor. They are taught to leave the day’s event behind and focus on training only.

Most people forget how to just

be present. Martial arts teach the importance of discipline the mind to just be present.

Another benefit of practicing karate is the discipline and philosophy it teaches. By training our minds to be strong, confident and to push through the barriers, we strengthen the mind. Students learn to broaden their mind and thought processes.

Spirituality has always played a role in martial arts. Originally, much of the spirituality taught had foundations in religions such as Shinto Buddhism and Taoism.

As the martial arts grew and became popular in other cultures and countries, those specific religious influences lessened. However the ideals of spirituality in the martial arts did not. Through meditation practice in training, understanding and developing certain general spirituality practices maintained the spiritual side of the art. The spirit side of one’s training also is the life force energy and passion and fire of one’s soul.

A well-rounded martial arts student understands the importance of knowing that karate is much more than fighting and defending themselves . Each part of the body, mind and spirit are equally important.

Karate is body, kata (forms) is the mind, and spirit is your actual fighting spirit. These together unify a martial artist.

480-759-4540.

-Rick Savagian is founder and owner of Mountainside Martial Arts Center in Ahwatukee.

Lightening Boys Lacrosse (eighth grade and under) and Mountain Point Boys Lacrosse Club.

Girls from Horizon Honors, Chandler Prep and other area schools joined because their schools couldn’t field a team. So, “this season we started calling ourselves Thunder Lacrosse to better represent our players from multiple schools, though the roster is largely from Desert Vista High School,” Kinkade said. “We want those students from other schools to know they are welcome.”

Three seniors on the team are heading to colleges or universities with athletic scholarships in lacrosse: Kathryn Shirley and Margaret Marshall will be attending Delaware State Dover,a Division I school, and Erin Langley will attend Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado, a Division II school.

Gabriella Abbadessa was signed as a sophomore to Stoney Brook University in New York State even though she won’t finish high school until a year from now.

The Thunder also counts a foreign exchange student from Spain. She picked up the sport for the first time in January and ended up as junior varsity goalie.

The team also had a player from Japan who moved to Phoenix this year.

Because 12 seniors are graduating in a few weeks and will be leaving the team, the Thunder board is looking for new players.

Kinkade said girls will find it a fun sport.

“It’s a tight-knit group with a lot of pride in participating in a sport not many here in Arizona know a lot about,” he said. “With other girls’ sports like soccer, basketball and volleyball being highly specialized, lacrosse gives them an option to walk on, not be cut and participate in a fun, fast sport without having to have played for years before.

“The JV team is an educational team with lots of playing time, learning the game and conditioning. All you need to have is a stick and mouth guard,” he added. “Varsity is for girls who spent time on JV and have worked their way up. We love girls who have played other sports like soccer and basketball. They understand movement well and we can teach them the stick skills.”

The season begins in January with practices and conditioning and games run from the end of February into May.

Information: leagueathletics.comDefault.

making it big: “I will be an NBA player.”

PickUp USA General Manager Steven Lancaster played professional basketball in Europe for six years after college.

He also played basketball with NBA All-Star LeBron James in high school.

“In high school, we were on the same Amateur Athletic Union team. We were teammates when we were 15 all the way to seniors in high school.”

After voluntarily leaving professional basketball, Lancaster became a trainer.

“It kind of works out best in both worlds to kind of be the face of a place that is basketball and also to be able to train and to develop athletes, as well, so they can get whatever goals they want out of basketball,” he said.

Lancaster prides himself in teaching things not taught by other trainers and coaches. He approaches training in a way that translates into a game situation.

He not only holds himself to high standards, but the staff as well.

Sonal Patel isn’t a member but is thinking about it. She dropped by to check out the new facility.

“I think the concept is actually brilliant,” Patel said. “When I was in

school, we played pickup at the park, wherever we could find a half court. I’ve been looking for a gym centered on being able to play pickup games and focuses strictly on basketball.”

She even jokes that when parents drop their kids off to play basketball, they no longer have an excuse not to work since the gym also offers a full fitness center.

Gym membership is $29.95 a month and includes access to the full cardio and full-weight rooms with the free weights plus access to the basketball courts. For pickup games, the monthly fee is $59.95.

The pickup games are scheduled six days a week: Monday-Thursday, 6-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

“For ages five and up, members get access to the courts year-round, seven days a week. They also get the grouptraining sessions, which run at various times throughout the week.

“If you have any ounce of interest in basketball, this is the place for you,” said Bhakta. “If you even slightly love shooting rounds, playing basketball, it’s for everybody. Any skill level, any age, it’s for everyone.”

Information: pickupusafitness.com/ chandler-arizona.

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PHOENIX

PHOENIX

PHOENIX

PHOENIX

Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center 4722 E. Ray Road, #14, Phoenix, AZ 85044 (480) 753-1121 • nothingbundtcakes.com

Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center 4722 E. Ray Road, #14, Phoenix, AZ 85044 (480) 753-1121 • nothingbundtcakes.com

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Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center 4722 E. Ray Road, #14, Phoenix, AZ 85044 (480) 753-1121 • nothingbundtcakes.com 17-RR-0014-0421_Grads_4-9x6-2.indd 1

Ahwatukee Foothills Towne Center 4722 E. Ray Road, #14, Phoenix, AZ 85044 (480) 753-1121 • nothingbundtcakes.com

17-RR-0014-0421_Grads_4-9x6-2.indd

17-RR-0014-0421_Grads_4-9x6-2.indd 1

Employ m e n t Merch andise

Employment General

KYRENE is now hiring School BUS DRIVERS FT 30 hrs/wk Benefits offered Paid training and CDL testing onsite

Flexible work schedule with split shifts Starting Salary $14 49 - $18 00

For additional info go to www kyrene org/hr

Christian School in Ahwatukee, seeks:

Lead 2 year Teacher beginning May 22 for a year round program

Hours 7:30 am to 3:00 pm five days per week

Lead Pre-K Teacher for Fall 2017-18 school year Hours 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, Monday - Friday

Two years of experience preferred and Early Education required Please send resume to sn10115@yahoo com

Garage Sales/ Bazaars

GARAGE SALE! 5/13 7:30AM-? 7914 E Hubbell St Scottsdale Delivery Available. Flat screen TV's, TV stands, bookshelves, chairs, beds, dishes, furniture, glasses, purses, bags, bedding, home decor, clothes, antiques, blue rays, dvds Misc items

SAVE THE DATE MAY 6TH 7am - Noon

GARAGE SALE 12222 S Paiute St Phoenix, AZ 85044 Home decor, furniture, some children's clothing, knick knacks, kitchen items & misc holiday decorations

Pets/Services

A FRIEND OF MINE Your in-home pet sitting and plant care service For all your pet needs, domestic and exotics Flat fee-no hidden costs Serving Ahwatukee since 2003 Member of PSI Bond/Ins d 602-617-0993 Please visit us at afriend ofminepetsitting com

Smart Recovery Meeting Wed’s 7:008:30 p m 6400 W Del Rio Chandler Montessori School next to Unitarian Church room 5 All issues drugs, alcohol, gambling, online addictions, & medications 480-532-2460

LEGION AHWATUKEE Post #64 We Meet Every 3rd Wed at 3pm at the Ahwatukee Retirement Center At 5001 E Cheyenne Dr, Phoenix, Az 85044 Contact ED MANGAN Cmdr 602-501-0128 GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS & GAMANON for meeting information 602-266-97846

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