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June 5, 2022 | www.santansun.com

Relentlessly local coverage of Southern Chandler

An edition of the East Valley Tribune

Slain teen’s family decries County Attorney’s ruling BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

Anthony Cano’s family is not happy with the Maricopa County Attorney’s decision not to charge the Chandler police officer who fatally shot the 17-year-old boy twice in the back on Jan. 2, 2021. The anger – and tears – still come quickly. “I think the county attorney is making a name for herself,” said John Clum, Anthony’s grandfather. “She did in five weeks what the other one didn’t do in a year and a half. Don’t quite understand that. She’s probably got a good job coming for now. I’m really bitter.” Interim Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced on May 26 that her office would not charge Officer Chase Bebak-Miller in the shooting death of Cano. She said that she called

Holding a photo of Anthony “Peanut” Cano, who was fatally shot in January 2021 by a Chandler police officer, are his aunt, Eva Cano, and cousin, Jennifer Morales. (Ken Sain/Staff )

Cano’s mother to inform her of the decision before announcing it to the media. “I have reviewed the body-worn camera many times, and I can understand why people would question the reasonableness of the second shot,” Mitchell said. “In reviewing Officer Bebak’s statements, he stated that he did not realize that the gun had been tossed aside before he fired that second shot.” Mitchell is running in the Republican primary Aug. 2 for a full four years in the job, was appointed by the county supervisors to replace the late Allistar Adel after she resigned. She said in a statement, “And given everything that was happening, it’s not surprising or unreasonable that Officer See

FAMILY on page 6

Chandler educator urges local action on teen mental health PAUL MARYNIAK Executive Editor

In the wake of the deaths of three Chandler teens last month – at least two by suicide and the third a fatal drug overdose of undetermined manner – State House Speaker Rusty Bowers has formed a task force to examine issues and causes affecting the mental health of Arizona youth. Meanwhile, the May 25 death by suicide involving a Perry High School freshman prompted Chandler educator and mental health advocate Katey McPherson a day later to ask Chandler City Council and Chandler Unified Governing Board to hold an emergency

meeting on youth mental health and school safety. “For the last five years as a mother of four in CUSD, an educator, and advocate I have asked for our city, schools, law enforcement as well as faith leaders and business leaders to come together with our students to create a call to action to confront the growing epidemic of youth struggling, suffering, and dying in our community,” she wrote. The May 25 suicide brought to seven the number of Valley teens who have lost their lives to suicide or drug overdoses since mid-March. That toll rose to eight on JUne 1 after a Gilbert 18-year-old shot himself. The deaths also underscored a warn-

ing from Teen Lifeline, the nonprofit teen suicide prevention hotline and service, that parents of Arizona teenagers must be particularly vigilant about

their children’s mental health at this time of year. See

SUICIDE on page 20

Lots to smile about

Downtown project plan change reﬂects lower office demand BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

City officials say the demand for office space is falling, reflecting one way that the pandemic impacted businesses’ outlook for the future as many employees who worked from home are resisting a return to offices. “We have not seen many new office development proposals,” said David de la Torre, the city’s planning manager. Chandler City Council approved a change at the New Square development at the northwest corner of Chicago Street and Arizona Avenue in downtown that reflects that decreasing demand. The project was first approved in 2018 and has already seen construction

of a three-story office tower and the Hilton Garden Inn hotel. Council approved changing part of the plan that calls for a four-story office building at the corner of Chicago and Oregon. Now, the plan calls for a retail and multi-family development. Kim Moyers, city cultural development director, said the developer decided to make the change to condominiums because of the lower demand for office space. Moyers’ office is in charge of downtown development. Nationally, Moody’s Analytics found the office vacancy rate in the first quarter of this year was down 18 basis points from the previous year. The 18.1% rate is See

OFFICE on page 3

Declan Phuong smiles broadly as she points to her diploma that she and hundreds of her Perry High School classmates picked up May 25 at the Class of 2022 graduation. For a look at some of the other scenes from the graduation, see page 22. (David Minton/ /Staff Photographer)

F E AT U R E D STO R I E S Meet your candidates for City Council . . . . . . . . . .News . . . . . . . . . .Page 10 Indoor pickleball comes to Chandler . . . . . . . . . . . .Business. . . . . . . Page 24 Chandler High football adds more power . . . . . . . .Sports . . . . . . . . Page 27 Sun Lakes Rotary has busy month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .NEIGHBORS . . . . . Page 28

More News . . . . . . . . 1-27 Business . . . . 28-30 Sports . . . . . . . . . .31 Neighbors . . .32-33 Faith . . . . . . . . . . 34 GetOut. . . . . . . . 35 Directory . . . 36-38

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This space in the New Square development was supposed to be sued by an office building but will now be home to a building with retail on the first ﬂoor and three ﬂoors of a total 32 condos. (David Minton.Staff Photographer)

OFFICE

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Chandler hairdresser recalls a frantic effort to rescue Ukrainian parents BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

Chandler hairdresser Lyuda Hoagland pleaded with her mother, trying to convince her parents to leave Ukraine and join her in Arizona because of the Russian invasion. Her parents didn’t want to go. She said that according to her mother, Valentina Lisniak, her father wasn’t working and had very bad knees. She recalled her mother telling her, “He can only [walk] very short distances, ... to restaurants and our apartment is not big. So Mama didn’t want to leave him as well. So that was very hard for me.” Hoagland’s parents lived in Kremenchuk, a city of about 218,000 in central Ukraine. It’s about a five-hour drive southeast of Kyiv. When the Russians began bombing Kremenchuk, Hoagland’s pleas became more intense. “They could be bombed, and they cannot run to a safe place,” said Hoagland, who lives in Gilbert. “So they were looking as their neighbors were running, but would stay in their apartment.” She asked her parents to consider getting out and joining her in the U.S. “No, we’re not going anywhere,” Hoagland quoted her mom as saying. “Dad is not in good condition. We had our life, and so now what happens, happens.” Then Hoagland said the magic words that finally convinced her parents to risk leaving their native land: “Okay, you have made that decision, but how can I live with that? If something happens and I didn’t do anything, then I cannot live with that the rest of my life.” Her parents, Valentina and Vasyl

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Chandler hairdresser Lyuda Hoagland, right, seen here with her mother, Valentina Lisniak, is relieved that her parents safely ﬂed Ukraine and are now living in Gilbert, where she also lives. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

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Lisniak, are now safe in Gilbert. The journey to get there, however, tested their daughter, who met her husband, Tony Campos, when he was serving in the U.S. Navy and has been living in the United States since 2001. Hoagland planned to meet her parents in Warsaw and had asked them to take a bus. The trip is normally about a 10-to-11 hour drive during peaceful times. With the war underway, it took 25 hours. She flew from Phoenix to Los Angeles, to Newark, New Jersey and on to Warsaw. She went to the hotel she planned to meet her parents at. She asked the front desk if anyone had

Vasyl Lisniak spent many anxious hours waiting for a safe way out of war-torn Ukraine with his wife so they could join their daughter, a Chandler hairdresser who lives in Gilbert.(Special to SanTan Sun News)

checked in, they said no. She sat down at the hotel cafe and began calling everyone for information. The bus they rode in was camouflaged and had a giant red cross on the roof, given that many Ukrainians have fled though an undetermined number of refugees have been attacked or detained. No one had answers for Hoagland when she called. The hotel told her no one knew where her parents were. When she called the bus company, they wouldn’t tell her if they made it across or not. Did they make it out of Ukraine? Did they get past the border checkpoint? Did they reach Warsaw? Had anyone seen them? Did anyone know where they were now? Many times she was told they could not give her answers. During all this, her sister kept calling asking for updates. Finally, after a couple of fruitless hours, she went up to her hotel room. Her mother greeted her after she opened the door. “I started to cry,” Hoagland said. “She started to talk to my sister on the phone], and I was hugging and kissing my dad.” The next problem was getting her dad’s passport updated because it had expired. The line at the consulate was very long, more than 1,800 people, she said. People who saw her father in a wheelchair came forward and offered to switch places with them, moving them up in the queue about 500 places at a time. Finally, they were able to get the proper paperwork and returned to the U.S. It was the first time her father ever flew on an airplane. Valentina said she does not know if they will return to Ukraine once the war is over. She said it will depend greatly on the health of her husband. Did Hoagland know that it would be that difficult to get her parents out? “I tried to prepare myself, it’ll be hard,” she said. “But I didn’t share that with my parents to keep them calm.”

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

from page 1

Bebak-Miller did not realize that the gun was no longer in Anthony Cano’s hand.” Mitchell’s explanation didn’t wash with the dead teen’s family. “I mean, you always stay hopeful,” said Eva Cano, Anthony’s aunt. “But we knew what was coming. But just to hear that explanation and the attempted justification is just kind of sickening.” “I think she earned herself a whole lot of campaign support [with the announcement],” said Sylvia Morales, Anthony’s grandmother. “It’s awful that if we had to take the toll, you know, that’s how I feel.” Mitchell said since taking over the office, she made it a priority to review all police shooting cases. She said she personally reviewed this case and decided she could not convince a jury that Bebak-Miller is guilty of murder. The family’s lawyer issued a statement, saying, “Rachel Mitchell’s refusal to file criminal charges against a rogue officer who executed a paralyzed child is legally and morally indefensible. Police killings must stop.” The police and County Attorney’s version of events is that Cano fled when the officer turned on his lights. He ignored warnings to stop running. He had a gun, and just before he was shot had dropped the gun and was picking it up. They claim the officer believed Cano intended to fire on him, so he shot.

From left, Anthony Cano’s grandmother Sylvia Morales, grandfather Johnathan Clum and aunt Eva Cano stand amid the memorial they build in Gazelle Meadows Park, where he was fatally shot by a Chandler police officer in January 2021.

Body-worn camera footage shows Cano falling face first on the ground, no longer in possession of the gun. He did not appear to be moving. The officer walks up behind him and fires again.

“That second shot is hard to watch,” Mitchell said, adding that this case meets two of the three standards that the U.S. Supreme Court said should be used in deciding if lethal

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force was needed or not. Those three factors are: Does the suspect pose an immediate threat to the safety of the officer or others? Is the suspect actively resisting arrest, or attempting to evade arrest by flight? The severity of the crime at issue. Mitchell said that two of those three factors were met in this case. “As County Attorney I must make difficult decisions and I do not take this responsibility lightly,” Mitchell said. “Parents lost their son. Family lost a family member, and a young man lost his life. But it is my job to decide whether criminal charges can be pursued. And that requires me to determine whether charges can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to a unanimous jury.” Mitchell admitted that at no point in the body-worn camera footage does Cano actually point the gun at the officer. Cano later claimed, before he died three weeks after the shooting, that he was trying to toss the gun away. Mitchell said that the gun is a split second away from being able to be pointed at Bebak-Miller and a shot going off. “The death of this 17-year-old young man is heartbreaking,” Mitchell said. “I want his family to know that I acknowledge and I recognize the terrible loss that they have suffered. But after an analysis of all these factors, I have determined that the actions of Officer Bebak-Miller did not violate criminal See

FAMILY on page 7

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

FAMILY

from page 6

statutes, and this office will not be filing criminal charges in this matter.” But Eva Cano said, “I’m sorry, if you shoot somebody face down on the back, I think that’s an execution. I don’t know how else to justify that.” The family called Anthony “Peanut” and described him as a happy, active kid who had natural charisma. He loved to play sports, pretty much any sport, and loved taking care of his sister. Eva said Peanut was studying to take his GED (General Educational Development) and wanted to go to college to become a nurse, just like her. Peanut was coming home from the Boys and Girls Club on his bike when the police lights went off. The family said Bebak-Miller should never have been patrolling there. This was outside of his normal patrol area and that the officer had made comments that he wanted to clean up that area. Also, Bebak-Miller had his father along that night for an unauthorized ride-along, they said, suggesting he may have been looking for trouble to show off for his father. Eva said relatives don’t believe Peanut was riding his bike erratically, as the police described. They said he was coming home from the Boys and Girls Club and probably just crossed the street quickly. They say the officer tried to pull him over for a broken headlamp. As for why Peanut had a gun, they don’t know.

lights went off, he panicked, fearing he would get in trouble for having the gun, so he ran. Both the Chandler Police Department and Maricopa County Attorney’s Office were asked for any comments or statements regarding the Cano family’s version of events. They declined to comment. Peanut died three weeks after the shooting in a hospital. A memorial has been set up at Gazelle Meadows Park, where the shooting took place. There, candles spell out L-L-C, the same letters that are painted on a nearby bench. It stands for Long Live Cano. A vigil was held at that park the night A bench was set up at Gazelle Meadows Park as part of the memorial to Anthony Cano. (David Minton/ after the County Attorney Staff Photographer) announced they would not pursue charges. social media that were threats made They said it wasn’t like him. The City of Chandler paid against him. He and some friends were “It was not his character to have a the Cano family $1.125 million to settle a tossing around a football in the street, gun,” Eva said. “It was not his character legal claim. and the ball hit a truck a couple of times. to be violent. He was just not that kid.” “It’s not fair, but it’s expected,” said The owner of the truck got angry. She said Peanut had no criminal Jennifer Morales, Peanut’s cousin. “With “And so they had a statement on record and had never had any problems so much that got thrown under the rug [the social media posts] with something for so long, it would have been nice to with the police outside of getting into like, ‘What you have coming to you’ and have some type of justice for him, but one fight, something she said happens pictures of guns. to lots of kids. all we can do is hope something changShe said they believe Peanut felt However, she said after the shooting, es later and it can save other kids from threatened and may have obtained a a couple of Peanut’s friends showed this happening to them.” gun to protect himself. When the police them videos that had been posted on

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NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Around Chandler Chandler Library no longer will charge late fees The City of Chandler announced its public library is doing away with late fees. The Library Board voted to eliminate them at its May meeting. This follows a national trend. Rachelle Kuzyk, the library’s manager, said earlier this year that those late fees bring in about $40,000-to-$50,000 in revenue annually. “Removing fines for overdue materials will ensure that everyone who is seeking information can find it at the Chandler Public Library,” Kuzyk said in a release. The city says studies show fines create barriers for access to library services, especially for households facing financial hardships. The Library Board also voted to reduce the cost of printing from 20 to 10 cents for black and white, and a dollar to a quarter for color.

Language; Chinese (all dialects); Hindi; Spanish; Tagalog; and Vietnamese. The bonus is $1,200 annually for advanced or superior grades, and $600 for intermediate or advanced grades. “The revamped policy recognizes the growth of languages commonly used in our community and the need to serve residents and businesses in other languages,” City Manager Josh Wright said in a release.

Chandler sets Juneteenth celebration of diversity

at Founding Father’s Kitchen. On June 19, 1965, a major general arrived in Galveston, Texas and began to enforce the emancipation proclamation, ending slavery. That date has been celebrated by African Americans for decades.

Two new exhibitions coming to Chandler Museum Two new exhibitions that focus on the lives of migrant workers are coming to the Chandler Museum. In the Fields of the North / En los campos del Norte features the photographs of David Bacon with stories of migrant farm workers. It’s available in both English and Spanish. It tells the story of the food Americans eat and the lives needed to harvest that food. Bacon spent three decades documenting the lives of migrant workers. The second exhibition is Bittersweet Harvest: The Bracero Program, 19421964. It features posters that detail the Bracero Program, the largest guest worker program in U.S. history. Millions of Mexican men came to the U.S. between 1942 and 1964 on short-term contracts. Both exhibitions open June 14.

dents to participate in a survey to help it manage storm water runoff better. The survey is open through Sept. 30. The city and the Flood Control District of Maricopa County entered into a partnership last year to evaluate and identify problem areas where flooding takes place in the city. The master plan they are working on is updated often and they want residents to help them know about areas where water pools after a storm. You can ﬁll out the survey at the city’s website, www.chandleraz.gov.

The City of Chandler’s Diversity, Gila River Indian Community Equity and Inclusion Division is planoffering grants to nonprofits ning a number of events to celebrate Juneteenth, the federal holiday that Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild commemorates the day the last slaves Horse Pass, Lone Butte and Vee Quiin the U.S. learned of their freedom. va – are accepting applications from The Freedom Week Kickoff Event nonprofits for its self-excluded jackpot takes place at 6:30 p.m. June 16 at the fund beginning June 1. The deadline to Performing Arts Center at Chandler-Gilapply is June 30 at 5 p.m. bert Community College. A reception All Arizona 501(c)(3) organizations follows in the Student Pavilion with that are recognized by the IRS and fomusic and live entertainment. cus on education and children’s welfare Chandler expands bilingual The Miss Juneteenth Pageant takes are eligible for consideration to repay program for employees place at 6 p.m. June 17 at the Chandler ceive self-excluded jackpot funds. The The City of Chandler is expanding its Center for the Arts. Tickets are $15. nonprofits can apply online through bilingual pay program to include most Culture Music in the Park is schedJune 30. The selected applicants will of the languages spoken in the city. uled for 7 p.m. June 18 at AJ Chandler be notified in September and honored The program started in 2005 and Park in downtown. Vaughn Willis and during a special Gila River Cares event paid any city workers who were fluent Ear Candy will be performing their in October. Cityand asksreplace for storm water in Spanish a bonus. Now, that bonus COLOR: with correct color soulfulRight music. click swatch, and find “We are privileged to further supmanagement feedback will also go to city workers who are The Chandler Men of Action plan fluent in these languages: American Sign their 4th annual mixer for 2 p.m. June 19 The City of Chandler is asking resiSee on page 12

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The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. As long as you have not sustained at least 95% nerve damage there is hope! Aspen Medical will do a chronic pain and neuropathy severity examination to determine the extent of the nerve damage as a public service to you and/or your family and friends. This neuropathy/pain severity examination will consist of a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and a detailed analysis of the findings of your neuropathy.

1) Increase blood flow 2) Stimulate and increase small fiber nerves 3) Decrease brain-based pain

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NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Meet the candidates for mayor of chandler

KEVIN HARTKE

Age: 66 Years in Chandler: 37 Immediate family: Wife: Lynne (for 40 years), 4 Adult Children: Nathan, Aleah, Katelyn, Zachary; 4 Grandchildren; 1 Dog: Mollie Job:Mayor of the City of Chandler; Pastor at Trinity Christian Fellowship Education: BS in Biochemistry from U of Missouri/Columbia; MA in Theology from Fuller Theological Phoenix Extension Campus. Why are you running? I have been leading and serving in Chandler for the past 37 years. Serving as Mayor is an extension of my commitment in the community that I love and call home. My years on Council and first term as Mayor have prepared for a second term. What responsibilities should a mayor specifically task himself or herself with in office? The primary tasks of the Mayor include leading Council, and with Council setting vision and policies for the city. Community engagement and advocacy are an important part as well. I am well suited and prepared for the foresight and problem solving needed to do the above. How would you assess your performance as and what goals do you think you failed to achieve this term? What are you three top goals for your next term? Goals that I either fell short of or have not yet completed include the following: 1. I did not anticipate the changing job market. I am working with staff on incentives and policies that will assist with talent acquisition and retention across the city, including our police. 2. The global supply chain has exposed challenges to all. We are playing catchup with housing and development. What three specific activities have you been involved in in the last four years that made your neighborhood and/or the city a better place to live?

I am proud of the things we have accomplished under my leadership during my first term as Mayor. 1. After declaring a state of emergency related to COVID, I worked closely with Council and the Governor to lead the city through stages of the pandemic. 2. I was one of the first to know of and work with the Intel expansion and the subsequent undergrounding of SRP power lines. Bringing more jobs, expansions and headquarters all around Chandler have been a goal of mine. This has included the further revitalization of downtown, Airport region, Price Corridor, West and North Chandler. 3. With Council, our city and Bond subcommittees, we passed the first bond in 14 years by an average of a 40% margin. This will continue to fund our capital projects well past my second term as Mayor. I could continue with another dozen! What are your top three strengths that will help Chandler survive economic headwinds such as inﬂation? 1. Ability to bring staff and Council together to address forward thinking decisions. 2. Understanding the times we are in and leading Council in maintaining rainy day funds as well as use one time and ongoing funds appropriately. 3. Experience with leadership and budgets that will keep city government focused on our core responsibilities and minimizing vision drift. It is easy to spend money on many programs that are not central to the goal of local government. What are your top three concerns for the next four years in Chandler and how would you address them? 1. Talent attraction and retention for city services. With Council I instituted a class and compensation study that will guide us and make our hiring competitive. Chandler has a good brand. I am currently working on further incentives to bring our work force to a full complement. This includes police as well. 2. Build out. With a diminishing acreage available, land use and redevelopment decisions become crucial. This effects accommodating the ongoing business expansion and relocation, headquarters relocations and housing needs. 3. Keeping Chandler fiscally sound, maintaining a high quality of life for all and a low cost of service. Meet the candidates for mayor of chandler How can the city facilitate the development of affordable housing? We will work with federal and state partners to find affordable and workforce housing financing. We will initiate development agreements with builders. We will identify aging retail corners See

HARTKE on page 12

Closer to home I worked with the city to put stop signs in a neighborhood to create a safe walking path to an elementary school. I have also been an HOA president. What are your top three strengths that will help Chandler survive economic headwinds such as inﬂation? As the mother to 6 children I have always been frugal and organized. This coupled with my fiscal conservative background and my time on planning and zoning commission allow me to see future needs and be prepared to meet good and bad economic turns as we develop and grow.

RUTH JONES

Age: 55 Years in Chandler: 2 in Chandler Husband: Gordon Jones; 6 children, 4 living with 3 currently at home and one starting college. Job: Mortgage Loan Officer, not currently working Education: Certification from National Cryptological School, Licensed MLO, realtor, a business major. Why are you running? I have seen the city changing and I am concerned about the lack of leadership. I want to bring greater transparency and community involvement that will assure our citizens the quality of life they are used to. I will provide the vision that will give our city a strong future. What responsibilities should a mayor specifically task himself or herself with in office? A mayor should lead with conscience, communicating with council and enacting policy that maintains the high quality of life our citizens expect. The mayor is the voice of the community and needs to see all aspects of city life in every decision made. What have been Mayor Hartke’s three biggest failures as mayor and how would you have acted differently? What three actions by Mayor Hartke do you applaud? Mayor Hartke has failed to provide adequate public safety. Our homeless population has grown at an alarming rate and we have a culture of government that lacks transparency. He is, however, well intentioned and attends community events. He is also not confrontational. What three specific activities have you been involved in in the last four years that made your neighborhood and/or the city a better place to live? I was on a planning and zoning commission and worked on a transit-oriented development. That required coordination between city, state, train, road officials, and multiple developers to create the gateway to the city.

What are your top three concerns for the next four years in Chandler and how would you address them? We need to provide resources asked for by police in order to hire and retain officers at the level Chandler requires. Secondly, we need to address the build out of the city and secure our economic growth. Our growing homeless population needs to be a priority. We need to create programs that work to decrease these numbers. How can the city facilitate the development of affordable housing? Increase public private partnerships and programs that facilitate resident’s pathway towards home ownership and financial independence. What additional controls would you advocate for short-term rentals like Airbnb? We need to give neighborhoods power to control the bad actors and those that violate code or become a nuisance. We will need to create ordnances and code that allows for management of negligent properties and holds properties owners accountable. Should Chandler pass an anti-discrimination ordinance with penalties for violating its provisions? Why or why not? We need to create a non-discrimination ordinance. All the citizens of Chandler need to be respected and feel safe in our community. We are the last major city to not have this and the state legislature is currently entertaining bills that would hurt our city. By writing the ordinance we can make sure it meets our cities needs as I believe strongly in local control. Would you support a bond issue to make the runways at Chandler Airport longer? Why or why not? I would. This issue already needs voter approval and the longer runways will be quieter and safer. It will also allow us to compete with Scottsdale and Phoenix Mesa Gateway for tourism and business opportunity. What are your top three qualities that you bring to the office of mayor? I bring my integrity and hardworking See

JONES on page 12

NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

To our readers

The Arizonan gave Chandler candidates for mayor and city council a questionnaire on their positions on some city issues and were asked to answer each question in nore more than 50 words. Some candidates exceeded that limit and their replies have been edited in print for space. However, they appear in their entirety online at chandlernews.com.

JANE POSTON

Age: 53 Years in Chandler: 13 as a resident (20 years as an employee /business owner) Immediate family: Husband Jason Heinkel, with our two sons, Jacob & Jackson. Education: Bachelor of Journalism, University of Missouri-Columbia. Job: Owner and partner in J2 Media, proving video production and full service communications. Why are you running? I am running to make a good city better. Chandler enjoys a strong reputation of being a quality community for residents, businesses, nonprofits and our schools. As a former City employee, small business owner, and community volunteer, I believe I bring the right skills and experience to serve Chandler. Prior to your decision to run for Council, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? My community service includes Chandler Chamber Board Chair (2021), and Women in Leadership Chair, 2021 Citizens Bond Committee (Airport), Chandler Education Foundation Board President, East Valley JCC Board, CUSD Bond & Override Marketing Chair and pro bono work for Chandler Firefighter Charities, AZCEND, ACEE, and Fans Across America. What attributes do you bring to the table that would serve the city well, particularly if economic headwinds such as inﬂation confront America in the next few years? As a former City employee and fiscal conservative, I See

POSTON on page 14

DARLA GONZALEZ

Age: 56 Years in Chandler: 18 Immediate family: Husband, daughter Education: BA In business admin from Ottawa University Chandler Campus Job: Self-employed - Gonzalez Professional Services, grassroots director For Az Free Enterprise Club Why are you running? I am running for Council because I love Chandler. I have raised my family here for the last 18 years. I want to apply my skills in leadership, government, administration, relationships and administrative serve the residents of Chandler with integrity and respect. Prior to your decision to run for Council, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? The last five years, I have been working full time in government policy and grassroots both statewide and nationally. I have taught people the US Constitution and the role of government. I lead a group of 11,000 (and growing) members to communicate to their elected officials on legislative policy issues which are important to them. What attributes do you bring to the table that would serve the city well, particularly if economic headwinds such as inﬂation confront America in the next few years? My greatest attribute is my ability to work well with people, committees, and leadership. I am a good listener, a problem solver, and a strategic thinker. We can always find something we have in common to work together for the good of Chandler residents. We can See

GONZALEZ on page 14

ANGEL ENCINAS

Age: 32 Years living in Chandler: 32 Immediate family: Parents and siblings. Job: Immigration consulting, real estate. Education: Bachelor's, ASU Why are you running? My career helping people through the legal immigration process led me to decide to run. Assisting people to achieve the American dream has been rewarding and I want to make that difference on a larger scale. As a young professional, business owner and native from downtown Chandler, I want to bring greater representation to our council that reflects the needs and voices of our communities. Prior to your decision to run for Council, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? I work one on one with members of our community while interfacing with our government to provide legal status, employment opportunities, housing and community services. I work daily with residents of our community and that experience provides me insight on the true obstacles members of our community face. What attributes do you bring to the table that would serve the city well, particularly if economic headwinds such as inﬂation confront America in the next few years? As a fiscally conservative business owner, I pride myself on being open minded and thoughtful on every issue. Creating programs to support residents and leveraging Chandler’s triple A bond rating responsibly to finance needed city services will help alleviate the burden of See

ENCINAS on page 14

MATT ORLANDO

Age: 66 Years in Chandler: 38 years Immediate family: Pat, wife of 44 years. We have three children: Matt, Anthony and Leah; two grandchildren Education: MBA Golden Gate University, CA; BA Rutgers University, NJ Job: Current Chandler City Councilmember Why are you running? To keep working to build a better quality of life for all; continue to be a strong advocate for safe and clean neighborhoods; foster smart growth policies; and continue providing the open and transparent communication that you have come to expect and is critical for maintaining trust in local government. Prior to your decision to run for Council, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? I have been serving on the Chandler Council for 20 years and am proud of the success Chandler has enjoyed due to the decisions I and other councilmembers have made. As a 30-year military officer, serving both active duty and in the Arizona Air National Guard, I have led responses to natural disasters and homeland defense. What attributes do you bring to the table that would serve the city well, particularly if economic headwinds such as inﬂation confront America in the next few years? Experience and the ability to make tough decisions. I served when Chandler was the fastest growing city in the nation, during the recessions, and through the Covid epidemic. My vast military and corporate experience, plus my unmatched See

ORLANDO on page 18

FARHANA SHIFA

Age: 46 Years In Chandler: 16 Immediate family: Husband, Mother and two daughters Education: Masters in Mass Communication, Bachelors in Education, and Bachelors in Fine Arts. Project Management Certificate Job: Owner, The Joy of Fine Arts; interpreter, adjunct faculty, consultant. Why are you running? I love living in Chandler, it’s been a wonderful place to raise my family. It’s time for me to give back, be your voice, and represent Chandler with a servant’s heart. Prior to your decision to run for Council, how have you been involved in the community and/or in town government-related activities? I have served many local organizations, including: Chandler Arts Commissioner for six years; Lions Club International, vice district governor; International Mother Language Day Celebration, community liaison; Chandler Asian Moon Festival, organizing committee; Emancipation Proclamation Observance Day, organizing committee. I have deep ties to the local Asian and diverse communities and have served as their advisor, political liaison, and friend. What attributes do you bring to the table that would serve the city well, particularly if economic headwinds such as inﬂation confront America in the next few years? I have been directing, advising, and organizing projects, community services, festivals, conferences, and events. Using my project management skills, I will monitor and forecast See

SHIFA on page 18

NEWS

HARTKE

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

from page 10

such as Warner and Alma School or Chandler and Kyrene that are good candidates for mixed use projects including housing solutions. A RAD housing option is currently being implemented that can bring affordable and workforce housing. What additional controls would you advocate for short-term rentals like Airbnb? I will continue to work with entities like the Maricopa Assoc of Governments and Arizona League of Towns and Cities where I serve in leadership roles to press for greater local control and registration.

JONES

from page 10

ethic to this position. I will be engaging and seeking consensus with all stake-

AROUND

from page 8

port Gila River Cares mission of giving back through the self-excluded jackpots,” said Kenneth Manuel CEO of Gila River Resorts & Casinos. “The funds help smaller yet influential organiza-

a solution that we do not need. Would you support a bond issue to make the runways at Chandler Airport longer? Why or why not? I would support bringing a bond question to Chandler authorizing the extension of the runway. Extending the runway will bring in more small corporate jets for those engaging and working in our community. This will also potentially discourage the increase of flight school touch and go operations from both local operators and operators from other airports using Chandler’s airport that creates most of the noise and complaints regarding fixed wing aviation. What are your top three qualities that you bring to the office of mayor?

How can the city best maintain existing service levels in the face of strong economic headwinds such as inﬂation? Prioritize our core missions: Public safety, service delivery, transportation, infrastructure. Continue to keep rainy day and other contingency funds. Continue to implement a structurally balanced budgets that use one-time monies for one-time expenses and ongoing monies for ongoing expenses.

holders to build coalitions that can build on common ground to resolve difficult policy issues. I bring policy experience, strength of character and faith and will lead with those qualities.

How can the city best maintain existing service levels in the face of strong economic headwinds such as inﬂation? In a period of high inflation, we need to keep attention on our revenues and

carefully balance that against expenditures, cutting wasteful programs and expenses like homeless programs that aren’t working when our law enforcement in not fully staffed.

tions thrive and we look forward to discovering and supporting new nonprofits each year.” Last year, more than $84,000 was distributed across three nonprofits benefiting Arizonans including one•n•ten, ICAN: Positive Programs

for Youth and The Tommy Two Shoes Literacy Project for Children. Self-excluded jackpot funds are accumulated when a gaming winner is ineligible to receive their winnings on table games, slot machines or bingo. This money is distributed to help fur-

ther support Gila River Cares mission of giving back to locals in need.

BE BALLOT READY BE BALLOT READY FOR THE AUGUST PRIMARY ELECTION BETHEBALLOT READY FOR AUGUST PRIMARY ELECTION

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FOR THE AUGUST PRIMARY ELECTION We all play a role in ensuring secure, transparent We all play a role in ensuring secure, transparent and accurate elections. The Maricopa County and accurate elections. The Maricopa County Elections Department is here to help your We all play a role in ensuring secure, transparent Elections Department isThe hereMaricopa to help your community Beelections. Ballot Ready! What can you do? and accurate County community Be Ballot Ready! What can you do? Elections Department is here to help your

AUGUST PRIMARY ELECTION

BE BALLOT READY community Be Ballot Ready! What can you do?

e in ensuring secure, transparent FOR THE AUGUST PRIMARY ELECTION ections. The Maricopa County rtment is here to help your We all play a role in ensuring secure, transparent Ballotand Ready! What canThe you do? County accurate elections. Maricopa Elections Department is here to help your community Be Ballot Learn moreReady! at: What can you do?

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1. Passionate love for my beautiful, diverse community 2. Experience and decades of leadership, collaboration and understanding. 3. Ability to work with federal, state and local leaders to represent and further Chandler’s goals.

Should Chandler pass an anti-discrimination ordinance with penalties for violating its provisions? Why or why not? With Council I instituted both a Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) office and a DEI study that is doing a deep dive look at both internal city policy study as well as an outward looking community study. I look forward to the results and hearing the voices of our community. I have pledged my personal advocacy and Mayoral leadership to anyone and everyone in Chandler experiencing discriminatory practices by the city, employers, housing providers or others. Chandler is a very diverse and inclusive community. We will work to continue it being a safe community that provides opportunity for all. An NDO is

B R O U G H T T O Y O U B Y:

FOR VOICE INFO, CALL 602-506-1511

To apply and view eligibility qualiﬁcations visit playatgila.com/gila-river-cares.

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NEWS

POSTON

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

What issue has been handled poorly by the current City Council and what would you do differently? Not passing a Non-Discrimination Ordinance (NDO). Through my work at the Chamber and as a small business owner, I have been an active supporter of a Non-Discrimination Ordinance, and Chandler has failed to act on this important issue, despite the strong recommendation from the business community.

is treated fairly and equally. Would you support a bond issue to make the runways at Chandler Airport longer? Why or why not? I would want to make sure the City receives resident and business input prior to taking a position on such an important issue. A bond issue of this nature has long standing ramifications for our community and must be studied thoroughly.

Should Chandler pass an anti-discrimination ordinance with penalties for violating its provisions? Why or why not? There should not be penalties, and all recommendations I have supported have very specifically stated that this should be a Civil issue. I believe the focus should be on providing education, awareness, and training. The end goal of an NDO is making certain every resident

What achievement/activity that benefitted your neighborhood or the city are you proudest of? I am most proud of my efforts as Board President of the Chandler Education Foundation. During my tenure, I led the effort that lifted the Foundation from a budget deficit and implemented policies and procedures to ensure longterm fiscal stability. That work continues to benefit Chandler students today.

Council can look at the proposals from investors, developers and businesses, look at their rules and fees and look at their strategic plan to find viable solutions to workforce housing.

ing ways to encourage positive behavior instead penalizing negative behavior.

get through the inflation problem working together and being transparent.

regulations and removing barriers which help both small and large businesses. If businesses can grow and thrive, they will employ more people and expand services. …

Name three your top concerns in Chandler for the next four years and tell how you would address them? My top three concerns are: Public Safety – making sure our police force is equipped, staffed, and have all the resources they need to keep all of us safe and can respond quickly to emergency calls. …. Keeping taxes low – I’ve always believed in having a lean fiscal budget especially when the revenue comes from the hard work of the constituents. But now, more than ever, with the increasing inflation, we need to not add burdensome taxes to our residents. . .. I think we look for more partnerships utilizing outside community organizations who are equipped and passionate about helping people. Pro-Business – We need to make sure we are rolling back burdensome

Name something you would change in city government that would improve it. I would make the city government less political and make governing about serving, listening, being transparent, using common sense, take out the personal agendas and put people above the politics. Most people will find more things they agree upon, than disagree, but yet people focus more on the disagreements. How can the city facilitate the development of affordable workforce housing? While government can referee the market, it’s not the role of government to intervene with the free market. The only way to make it affordable (without federal assistance/subsidizing) is to provide more supply. If we restrict housing supply, home values will increase. City

What issue has been handled poorly by the current City Council and what would you do differently? I wouldn’t characterize the City Council as handling something “poorly” but there is always room for improvement. I love my city and think the council and previous councils have done a great job managing and planning Chandler with infrastructure, low taxes, water storage, parks but there are always opportunities for improvement. …

from page 11

understand the City’s budget and the importance of being a strong steward of the taxpayer dollar. I also own a successful small business and have served on budget override and bond committees for both the City and the school district. Name three of your top concerns in Chandler for the next four years and tell how you would address them? Public safety hiring, high quality jobs, and quality of life services (water, transportation, parks and recreation facilities). I will work closely with my colleagues on the Council, our residents and the City’s department and division staff to outline goals and objectives to adequately address these concerns. Name something you would change

GONZALEZ

ENCINAS

from page 11

inflation on our tax payers. Name three your top concerns in Chandler for the next four years and tell how you would address them? Build-out, neighborhood investment, and public safety will be my top priorities. From day one, I will work to be sure that the city is allocating appropriate resources to city planning, neighborhood and community services, and our police and fire departments Name something you would change in city government that would improve it. Transparency and community involvement in decision making is where I believe there is great room for improve-

in city government that would improve it. As a former city employee and a professional communicator, I bring a unique perspective. I am an advocate for government transparency and communication. I would work to ensure that we continue to provide open communications to our residents and encourage and promote resident involvement on important issues. How can the city facilitate the development of affordable workforce housing? This complex problem has been amplified by strong economic policies and job growth encouraging people to move here at a rapid pace. Attainable housing is a regional issue with multiple pressure points, and I believe we should work with partners across the Valley to find a balanced path forward.

ment. There are too many issues that affect our residents in which they are not educated or included. As your councilmember I will provide much greater community outreach and participation. How can the city facilitate the development of affordable workforce housing? I would like to see the city utilize housing and community land trusts and increased opportunity zones, repurpose vacant, under-utilized, and blighted spaces, build relationships with a diverse range of developers, and update development codes while eliminating superfluous ones What issue has been handled poorly by the current City Council and what would you do differently? Investment in our police and fire

Should Chandler pass an anti-discrimination ordinance with penalties for violating its provisions? Why or why not? I work every day to create an equal playing field for all people. I love justice. I believe in a free market where customers pick the winners and losers, not government. I am always open to find-

depts. to keep up with the growing population has been a concern of our residents and myself. Increased homelessness and misleading crime reporting have been troublesome trends. I would begin by allocating resources our officers & firefighters deserve and require to do their job effectively. Should Chandler pass an anti-discrimination ordinance with penalties for violating its provisions? Why or why not? It is the job of our city government to protect all of its residents equally under the law. It is the job of our city government to protect all of its residents equally under the law. I fully support an NDO but in order for it to be the most effective, stakeholders on both sides of the issue must be brought to the table to develop it, as well as its enforcement mechanisms.

What you support a bond issue to make the runways at Chandler Airport longer? Why or why not? I was born into a family of pilots. Sadly, my brother passed away in airplane accident due to a botched landing. If upon research, I find that the runway poses safety threat, I would support making the runway longer. I would like to see the Chandler Airport be subsidized less by the city and be more self-sustaining. What achievement/activity that benefitted your neighborhood or the city are you proudest of? In 2021, my team along with grassroots citizens worked with legislators and fought hard for a 1.7 billion tax cut for all Arizonans. This included the income tax to reduce to a flat tax of 2.5%. With soaring inflation, this legislative win helped millions of Arizonans keep more money in their pockets.

Would you support a bond issue to make the runways at Chandler Airport longer? Why or why not? Yes, I would support a voter approved bond issue to lengthen the runways. This will allow Chandler to compete regionally for increased business and tourism dollars. Further, it will make our airport profitable rather than it being subsidized by the city. What achievement/activity that benefitted your neighborhood or the city are you proudest of? My work as a legal immigration consultant has provided hundreds of people with jobs and legal pathways to become active and contributing members of our Chandler community. Having grown up in this city, I am deeply proud that I am able to contribute to its productive growth on a daily basis.

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Would Buffalo massacre be a forbidden class topic? By Howard Fischer Capitol Media Services There’s little doubt but that the shooting earlier this month by a white teen at a Buffalo supermarket was racially motivated. What remains unclear, however, is whether legislation set for Senate debate as early as this coming week would preclude students in Arizona public schools from being told that the shooter targeted the victims specifically because they were Black. “I’m not sure whether or not that would be an appropriate conversation in those classrooms,’’ Rep. Michelle Udall said during debate on HB 1412 last week. But the Mesa Republican said she believes there is enough wiggle room in the language of her bill to allow for discussion within limits. “This language says that they may not promote to advocate for, or blame or judgment of race or ethnicity,’’ she said. “I would hope that a teacher would not be in the classroom promoting or advocating that students judge based on race, as was done in that shooting.’’ “I’m pretty sure that teachers know how to teach about race and about race relations without placing blame or without saying that one race is morally superior to another,’’ she said. “And if

you can’t do that, you really shouldn’t be teaching.’’ Rep. Jennifer Jermaine, D-Chandler, said it’s not that simple. She questioned how it is possible to teach history accurately without crossing a line that actually could result in a teacher losing state certification. “Our history is full of systems that have been based on one race thinking they are above others,’’ said Jermaine said she sees it through the eyes of being a descendant of someone who survived the system of Indian boarding schools that resulted in the death and abuse of many Native American children. “The entire system is built on race and sex and targeting of minority populations,’’ she said. Rep. Mitzi Epstein, D-Tempe, acknowledged the language in SB 1412 does specifically say that both teachers and guest lecturers can discuss prior instances of racial hatred or discrimination, including slavery, Indian removal, Japanese-American internment and the Holocaust. But she said none of that matters with the curbs in the measure. “We can’t ask our children to recognize a problem and we can’t ask them to recognize badness if we don’t teach them something is bad,’’ Epstein said. And she specifically questioned how a survivor of the Nazi death camps speaking to students could convey his

SUMMER HEAT RELIEF

experience without saying that he was targeted because he was Jewish. At the heart of the debate is whether SB 1412 is simply a safeguard against – what Udall says – students not being indoctrinated to see everything through the lens of racism or – as some Democrats see it – a bid by the Republican majority to sanitize the nation’s often-checkered history of race relations. On the surface, what is now awaiting Senate action is relatively simple. It prohibits teachers from promoting or advocating the concept that blame or judgment can be ascribed based on race or ethnicity. It also would ban teaching that any race or ethnic group is morally or intellectually superior to another, that individuals bear responsibility for actions of others of the same race, and that any race or ethnicity is inherently oppressive, whether conscious or unconscious. House Minority Leader Reginald Bolding, D-Laveen, however, worried that the law could be used to squelch legitimate discussion. Consider, he said, a discussion of the Fair Housing Act, the 1968 federal law designed to prevent discrimination in the ability of people being able to buy and rent homes and apartment. “A student might ask, ‘Why?’ or ‘How,’ ‘’ he said. And that’s when you start to have a deeper discussion of why a federal law was needed in the

first place. Udall, however, insisted that facts can be told without putting a racial spin on it. Her example of where lessons cross the line goes to an essay used in a seventh grade English class in Chandler entitled “Black Men in Public Places,’’ told from that person’s point of view. It deals with a 6-foot-2-inch Black man walking at night in a military style jacket with his hands in his pockets. “A woman out walking was frightened and sought to put distance between them,’’ she said. “He attributes to that that she was racist,’’ Udall said. “I think that’s absurd.’’ Udall said she is a woman who walks or runs at night. “If there’s a big guy near me, I’m going to run from him,’’ she said. “I’m going to distance myself because you have to be careful when you’re walking alone at night.’’ Still, in an interview, Udall acknowledged that this is not a race-neutral society. Consider traffic stops. “You do see minorities are stopped more often and, in more minor situations, are stopped or ticketed or charged,’’ she said. “But I don’t think See

RACE on page 18

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ORLANDO

from page 11

experience leading Chandler through challenging times while setting us up for future success. Name three your top concerns in Chandler for the next four years and tell how you would address them? We must continue developing solutions that allow hard working families to afford a home and ensure development projects align with our neighborhoods’ concerns. We must accelerate the hiring of more first responders and support staff. And we must find lasting solutions for homelessness, drug addiction, and mental health issues. Name something you would change in city government that would improve it. My vast experience has taught me that local government works best when

SHIFA

from page 11

issues regarding revenue constraints and expenditures. To deal with inflation, we should take steps to stop unnecessary spending, recalculate the budget, maintain savings to guard against the unexpected. Name three of your top concerns in Chandler for the next four years and tell how you would address them? Maintaining a strong community: school choice, compassion for those in need -affordable housing and homelessness, maintain Chandler’s family friendly environment – parks, recreation, and safety. Fiscal responsibility and economic growth: Preserve Chandler’s low tax rates, use tax dollars wisely and make the most of one-time revenue sources…. Public safety: support police and fire departments… Name something you would change

RACE

from page 16

that’s just white police officers actually.’’ And that, Udall said, proves her point that not everything can be seen as a racist act. “It’s not the color of the police officers’ skin that’s a problem,’’ she said. “It’s their actions that are a problem.’’ Some of the concern by foes appears to have less to do with what SB 1412 would prohibit than what would be the effect.

t? o G ws Ne

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

it implements nonpartisan approaches to solve the real issues facing our community – not letting the needs of citizens become secondary to political whims. Let’s remember that potholes are neither Republican nor Democrat. They just need to be fixed. How can the city facilitate the development of affordable workforce housing? I worked with the council to approve a workforce/affordability housing plan that includes: coordinate with the state legislature to allow more construction of workforce housing; set aside some affordable/workforce housing units during new development; updating city codes to reflect the need for more housing options and utilize private/public partnerships that stimulate workforce housing. What issue has been handled poorly by the current City Council and

in city government that would improve it. Based on the feedback from the citizens of chandler, I would increase citizen participation in our city government. This has already begun through dedicated staff, commissions, committees, sub-committees and focus groups. Although the framework is already in place, outreach to the citizens could be improved.

what would you do differently? Anyone who has worked in large organizations realizes communication is challenging. Chandler is no different. Although we strive to reach the public via press releases, videos of council meeting, surveys, and social media, we should do more outreach within our community. I’d like to explore more neighborhood coffees and conduct more outreach events. Should Chandler pass an anti-discrimination ordinance with penalties for violating its provisions? Why or why not? Chandler has always been a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community. An anti-discrimination ordinance would reflect our values as a community and enhance our economic vitality. Many Valley cities have already passed similar ordinances and we should as well. Chandler’s ordinance would only include education

and mediation provisions as penalties. What you support a bond issue to make the runways at Chandler Airport longer? Why or why not? Chandler residents have voted three times not to expand the runway. Over the years, we’ve witnessed elected bodies usurping the will of the voters; I respect the will of the people. If, in the future, there is support from the community then the council can consider referring the issue for a vote. What achievement/activity that benefited your neighborhood or the city are you proudest of? Other than successfully championing for additional first responders for our city, I am most proud of always listening to Chandler’s residents and working to resolve their concerns. I always had and will continue to have the residents’ best interest in mind as I make decisions.

federal efforts for affordable housing.

inclusion of all Americans.

What issue has been handled poorly by the current City Council and what would you do differently? Overall, the city council has done a fine job and works together in a nonpartisan manner. I hope to see a continuation of this spirit of camaraderie and cooperation. Such a culture is critical to making the right decisions to benefit our community.

What you support a bond issue to make the runways at Chandler Airport longer? Why or why not? I will support the bond issue because the runway extension will allow our airport to compete with the other airports in the county. This directly translates to more jobs, which helps maintain the quality of life we have in Chandler. In addition, longer runways will provide the logistical and supply chain advantages companies look for when relocating.

How can the city facilitate the development of affordable workforce housing? The city should: • continue repositioning public housing to increase the availability of units. Multi- use housing units developments can help business amenities and residents. • encourage private sector solutions for affordable housing. • update codes and area plans to reflect need for more housing options. • support and collaborate with state and

Should Chandler pass an anti-discrimination ordinance with penalties for violating its provisions? Why or why not? Chandler is a diverse community. There is diversity among the candidates running for and those currently serving on our city council. Our downtown businesses are very diverse. One of Chandler’s biggest employers, Intel, hires qualified workers from many diverse backgrounds. We do not need an ordinance because Chandler leads in the

It starts with the fact that any parent or even student can file a complaint that automatically triggers an investigation at the school district level but with the potential of it making its way to the state Board of Education where a teacher could lose his or her state certification. And Rep. Domingo DeGrazia, D-Tucson, said he can envision situations where some legislators get constituents “riled up’’ over issues and “make more noise.’’ “So what you’re going to see is an avalanche of complaints based on

‘feels,’” he said. And it’s not just teachers that could get into trouble. Schools that allow prohibited behavior are subject to fines of $5,000 a day, all of which Rep. Andres Cano, D-Tucson, said will “subject our public school educators to intimidation, to harassment.’’ And Rep. Kelli Butler, D-Paradise Valley said that will have an effect on what students are taught. “I’m just worried that it’s going to create a situation in classrooms where teachers are just afraid of teaching any-

What achievement/activity that benefitted your neighborhood or the city are you proudest of? Successfully advocated to the city council for the Veteran’s Commission; supported local artists; …served on the organizing community for the Asian Moon Festival; promoted International Mother Language Day celebration; through the Lions clubs we have been providing helps to the community.

thing,’’ she said, saying just the threats of deciding wrong – including loss of license – will have a “chilling effect.’’ But Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, said that’s not the fault of SB 1412. “If there’s a chilling effect on teachers, it’s not because of what the bill says,’’ he said. “It’s because of how the bill is being misrepresented,’’ Kavanagh continued, saying all it precludes is advocacy or promotion of “seven vile, racist actions,’’ like some people being inherently superior because of their race.

Contact Paul C Contact Paul P l Maryniak Maryniak M y i k at at 480-898-5647 480 898 5647 or or pmaryniak@timespublications.com p pmaryniak@timespublications.com pmaryniak@timespublications y i k@ i p bli i com

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SUICIDE

from page 1

More young people get depressed as they either lose daily contact with classmates or for other reasons related to the end of the school year. The House Ad Hoc Committee on Teen Mental will be headed by Rep. Joanne Osborne, R-Goodyear, and will include Gilbert Republican Rep. Travis Grantham and Tucson Democratic Rep. Alma Hernandez as well as undetermined community members that will include educators, law enforcement churches and the general public. Osborne said the committee will research and review information related to the impact of substance abuse, bullying, and social media on young people, particularly as it relates to teen suicide. Bowers has directed the committee return in December with potential solutions and recommendations to public and private agencies that address teen mental health issues and improving access to mental health care. “Teenage children today are faced with tremendous stress and pressure along the path to adulthood, and far too many succumb to substance abuse and suicidal ideations,” said Osborne, who chairs the House Health and Human Services Committee. “Struggles because of the pandemic and social media aggravate the situation further. “As a mother of four and a longtime mentor to young Arizonans, I am deeply concerned with this current state of teen mental health, and I am committed to using the legislative pulpit to

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Students gathered for a vigil outside Chandler City Hall on May 20 to commemorate the two local teenagers who lost their lives, one by suicide and the other a drug overdose of undetermined manner, on May 14 and May 16. (Special to SanTan Sun News)

of those who continuously struggle. ...Their voices must be heard.” “We have students who are suffering from mental health issues, who are indeed desperate, with access to firearms

As a mother of four and a longtime mentor “ to young Arizonans, I am deeply concerned with

this current state of teen mental health, and I am committed to using the legislative pulpit to draw public attention to this important issue. Recent tragedies further highlight the urgent need for solutions. This will be our committee’s endeavor.

”

– Rep. Joanne Osborne

draw public attention to this important issue. Recent tragedies further highlight the urgent need for solutions. This will be our committee’s endeavor.” McPherson said teen mental health “is 100% a community responsibility.” “In the last 5 years, we have lost upwards of 65 children in our 10-15mile radius, (15 in CUSD), to guns, drugs, suicide, or a combination of both,” she told Chandler City Council members and Chandler Unified administrators and school board members in an email. “To date, there is no formal committee, process, or collaboration that is tackling the issues that our community continues to face.” “Currently, there is no mechanism outside of the Mayor’s Advisory Council or student council to hear student voices,” McPherson wrote. “These councils often do not represent those children who are underserved and underrepresented, nor a cross section

who have taken their lives using them,” she said. “We have campuses that are open wide with over 10-12 points of entry, no fencing nor updated cameras, and all of the ingredients of the pathway to violence present here and now.” Chandler Unified Superintendent Frank Narducci replied to McPherson’s letter by telling her “we are working on several initiatives.” The district and NotMYKid, a nonprofit with deep experience working on teen mental health issues, held a webinar last week for parents on warning signs of teens in mental crisis. Narducci told McPherson that district officials are working on a series of forums with mental health experts and that he would be reaching out to city officials as well. Mayor Kevin Hartke told his council colleagues and City Manager Joshua Wright that he wanted to “further the conversation” but it was

not immediately clear what, if anything, city officials would do or whether they intended to let CUSD take the lead on any new initiatives. A Hamilton High student’s fatal overdose and possible suicide May 16 followed by two days the death by suicide of a Chandler High female sophomore. Those deaths followed by a few weeks the deaths of two Brophy College Prep students, one by suicide and the other an overdose. A Deer Valley high school student died by suicide within the last month and an Arcadia High student died by suicide in mid-March. McPherson asserted, “Our efforts to locally, collectively, and collaboratively get in front of this ever growing epidemic and suicide contagion have been weak at best. There are a number of people working in silos and not letting the subject matter experts in to do the work they are trained to do.” In 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics declared a state of emergency, stating “suicide-risk screenings have yielded higher positive rates than during the pre-pandemic period.” In a study of teen death rates in 14 states, the journal JAMA Pediatric on April 25 wrote, “The proportion of overall suicides among adolescents increased during the pandemic. No other pandemic-period changes in adolescent outcomes were statistically significant.” The mother of the Arcadia High student posted a heart-wrenching description of finding her son’s lifeless body at home and discovering that despite his 11 social media posts in one day he made on a private Instagram chat group that stated he was going to take his life, “not one peer took action.” She wrote on seeandsay.live: “This is about looking at social media, dismissing statements of suicide, minimiz-

ing statements of suicide, glorifying statements of suicide, and the lack of accountability of a person who clearly is told that a person is going to commit suicide... and their lack of action. What has happened to our humanity?” Teen Lifeline volunteer suicide prevention peer counselors have seen an annual 10% increase in calls during the last two months of a school year. A study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at the beginning of April showed more than 44% of high school students in the United States reported feeling sad or hopeless every day for two weeks or longer since the start of the pandemic. In Arizona, Teen Lifeline said it has experienced a rapid growth in calls to its teen crisis hotline the past two years, including a 20% increase in calls and texts from 2020 to 2021 and a 50% increase in calls and texts since the pandemic began in March 2020. “Regular conversations about mental health could save your child’s life,” said Nikki Kontz, clinical director at Teen Lifeline. “It’s been a rough couple years for everyone. Check in with your teen and ask how they’re feeling," Teens who are struggling with thoughts of suicide, depression, anxiety or who just need someone to talk with are encouraged to call the Teen Lifeline hotline at 602-248-TEEN (8336) or 800-248-TEEN. The 24/7/365 service is staffed by teen peer counselors daily from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m. daily, including holidays. Trained counselors are available at all other times. Teens can also text the hotline at 602-248-8336 between the hours of noon and 9 p.m. on weekdays and 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. on weekends. Information: TeenLifeline.org.

NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Chandler youth theater records another sell-out BY JANELLE MOLONY Contributor

Stage Door Studio, located in the Chandler Marketplace at Ray and Alma School, has done it again. After the initial summer theatre program in 2021 sold out within hours of promoting, studio owner Tiffany Selene Sivak has doubled her efforts to provide more opportunities this year for local children to explore their creative side. Still, every one of the four week-long summer camps for 2022 has sold out, along with their two-week intensive Broadway Jr. camp. The hype over summer theatre has the director of the upcoming Disney musical, Moana Jr., excited. “I grew up in a tiny, little town where I had nothing like this… [Now,] it’s super fulfilling for me to be the person giving that opportunity to kids,” said Sarah Burke. Burke is a former music teacher for Bright Beginnings in Chandler, and former director of the East Valley’s CommUNITY Choir. Sivak has also just announced the open casting of a second show this summer, Chicago. Casting began June 4 but interested families can reach out to the studio to register for this teen-edition of the (modified) saucy jailhouse musical late, to accommodate the last-minute notice. “Every show we’ve done has been a successful and fun experience for the kids and for us,” said musical director Sarah Burke, who recently directed

The cast for Stage Door Studio’s presentation of “Aristocats” is excited about the troupe’s summer programs. (Special to SanTan Sun News)

The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast with the theater group. She saaid in her new career avenue, she’s witnessed how powerful theatre is for kids’ confidence and overall development. “It’s a fun way to empower them to believe in themselves–– and not just on stage,” she remarked. Stage Door Studio is a female-owned, Christian business run by actor-dancer-choreographer Sivak, who mentored under Clyde Baker of

A TABLE FOR TWO?

Baker Performing Arts in Mesa. After the Mesa operation ended in 2020, Sivak opened a new studio out in response to pandemic-related school and community center closures. “It’s never been about what I want to do, but about what do the kids and the community need,” she said. Sivak advertises her studio as being inclusive and taking a whole-child approach. She has intentionally hired skilled

instructors with the experience and qualifications for teaching students of all abilities. On working with children who have unique needs, Burke explained: “We just work together and communicate” with the parents and other aids who assist the students. Burke has said that the teaching staff makes it a point to problem solve as they go, and maintain a familial-type support system that includes peer-to-peer teamwork. Based on public reviews, parents are loving the positive impact the programs have had on their children both at school and at home. As a result, Stage Door Studio is expanding the suite of classes in the Fall to meet the growing demands. After a first-year trial of daytime, homeschooler-filled classes, Burke says the studio is preparing to open two new sections for the 2022-2023 school year to accommodate this demographic. SDS will also offer private piano and voice lessons, to complement ongoing theatrical projects. SDS has recently enrolled in the Class Wallet vendor system so schools and private educators can easily incorporate music and theatre classes or workshops into their curriculum. Tickets for the June performances of "Moana Jr." and July’s "Chicago" go on sale soon and announcements for the fall programs will be right behind. Information: StageDoorStudioAZ.com

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Perry High hails the Class of 2022

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Perry High School graduated the Class of 2022 on May 25 and before the ceremony began, some seniors like 1) Rueger Marin relaxed before beginning their walk. 2) Isaac Phininzy of Chandler points to a friend both received their diplomas. 3) Grads prepare to toss their mortar boards as they bid a final adieu. 4) Landon Carter looks over his diploma. 5) Seniors begin marching toward their seats; and 6) Justice McLinden’s tassel hangs next to his Pit Viper sunglasses as he takes in the scene. Photos by David Minton/Staff Photographer

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Homeowners fume over Ocotillo Road widening BY CECILIA CHAN Staff Writer

Eric and Terri Naddy enjoy a rural lifestyle on nearly 2.5 acres, raising 60 quails, chickens, three dogs and two desert tortoises. They planned on putting in a barn and an above-ground pool to farm fish. But earlier this month, the couple learned their way of life may soon be gone as Gilbert moves forward with taking part of their land and that of 45 of their neighbors in southeast Gilbert for a road-widening project. Most of the other properties in the area are 1 acre in size and some homeowners have horses. Town Council in January unanimously approved eminent domain proceedings on the properties bordering Ocotillo Road on the north and south sides from Greenfield to Val Vista roads. Nine of the properties are in Gilbert’s jurisdiction and 37, including the Naddys’ land, are under the jurisdiction of Maricopa County. None of the property owners were notified of the town’s intentions until after Council’s vote. The project, already included in the Town’s Capital Improvement Plan for fiscal years 2022-31, calls for widening two-lane Ocotillo into four traffic lanes with a center turn lane, bike lanes, sidewalks and streetlights. The Town set aside $2.9 million to buy the properties. Although Ocotillo Road currently dead ends at Greenfield and Higley roads, Gilbert plans to rectify that with a 545-foot-long bridge with four travel lanes that will improve emergency response to some neighborhoods. The connected roadway would also provide a straight east-west travel corridor between Queen Creek and Chandler. Ocotillo currently is separated by a number of natural barriers, such as the Queen Creek Canal, East Maricopa Floodway and a Roosevelt Water Conservation District canal. The overall budget for the project was $67 million with the construction portion at $54 million, according to the Town. Construction was anticipated to begin in the fall/winter of 2023. The Town also plans to widen Ocotillo Road from Greenfield to Val Vista roads – a plan opposed by homeowners who will lose portions of their land for the project. If the owners refuse to sell at the assessed value, eminent domain will be used. According to the Town, the widening of the roadway is a critical piece of infrastructure to provide the connection

in the southern part of Gilbert and has been identified in past general plans and transportation master plans. The project is approaching 60% design, with anticipated design completion occurring later this year. The town has pared down the aesthetic design for the planned Ocotillo Bridge across Gilbert Regional Park to two from four and is again asking the public for its input. Residents can comment until June 14 on the two options – the Palo Verde concept and a new design Desert Falls, which incorporates the best of the elements from three previous renderings. Some 3,490 people in a survey weighed in on the original four concepts, which were designed around a desert oasis theme that resulted from public outreach. Rich Robertson, a county resident who lives on Ocotillo Road, told the Gibert Town Council last month that officials are taking more land than originally proposed. “The road expansion is not new to us,” Robertson said. “I knew it when we bought our house nearly 20 years ago that this was planned as a minor arterial. I saw the Gilbert transportation plan at that time, laid it out. The Ocotillo Bridge was part of that plan nearly 20 years ago. “The easement on my property was platted for that highway in 1985 so it’s not a surprise. But what was a surprise was the additional 10 feet,” he continued. “In the intervening 40 years, if you will, since my easement was platted Maricopa County’s issued building permits for pools and walls and out-buildings and houses. Gilbert and the county have platted subdivisions based on that 55 feet and now it’s changed. “And I think that 10 feet is where most of the damage will be. That’s where most of the expense for Gilbert taxpayers going to come from in taking out those walls, those out-buildings, those swimming pools that were built with the expectation of 55 feet.” Ellen West said the stakes already placed in her backyard, which backs up to Ocotillo, will reduce its size by half and result in “having a wall about 15 feet from my back door.” Her husband, Ray West, said the couple purchased their property on 154th Street over 20 years ago to escape the city and “now the city has moved into us.” He said when he purchased his property the address originally was in Chandler but Gilbert later took it over and that the Town also took 2,200 square feet, an easement the couple owned

Terri and Eric Naddy stand to lose a substantial portion of their property as Maricopa County and the Town of Gilbert widen E. Ocotillo Road between S. Val Vista Drive and S. Greenfield Road. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

east of their home, from them without compensation for a road. Eric Naddy said the proposed five lanes, sidewalks and horse trail total 89 feet and asked why the Town wanted 130 feet. “Decoration, landscaping?” he said. “We don’t want it.” The irony, he said, is that the Town wants to put in a horse trail but will be taking land away from people who own horses in order to do so. “We are not going to take horses down a five-lane road,” Naddy said. “It’s a bad idea.” As it stands, the Naddys will lose

4,800 square feet of land – or 12 feet from their block wall facing Ocotillo Road for 400 feet, said Eric Naddy. They also will lose a mature tree and a shed her mother put in, said Terri Naddy, who purchased the property with her mom, Susan, in 1997, when the closest grocery store was 9 miles away and people had to drive past at least two dairy farms to reach the home. “I am not one to lay down and roll over and play dead,” said Terri Naddy upon learning of the Town’s plans. “We bought in a rural community and want to keep it that way.”

Left: This proposed bridge design, called the Palo Verde concept, was the most popular among five designs residents were asked to weigh in on. Right: The Desert Falls design for the proposed Ocotillo Bridge over Gilbert Regional Park incorporates the best of the elements from three previous renderings. (Town of Gilbert)

NEWS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Arizona’s ‘quit rate’ second highest in nation BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

A higher percentage of Arizonans quit their jobs in March than almost anywhere in the nation. Data collected by WalletHub find the “quit rate’’ hit 4.2%. That means for every 1,000 people employed, 42 of them decided, in essence, they can do better elsewhere. Only Florida posted a higher figure. The same data put the quit rate for the past year at 3.3%, the third highest figure in the nation. It’s not just the financial advice firm that finds employed Arizonans are increasingly looking elsewhere. On May 19, the Arizona Commerce Authority put the quit rate for March at an even higher 4.5% once seasonal adjustments are made. At the same time, the state said the jobless rate in Arizona dropped to 3.2%. Doug Walls, the agency’s labor market information director, said that’s the lowest its been since the government began reporting unemployment data this way in 1976. All that is good news – for some. “For workers, this can reflect increased opportunities in the state,’’ said George Hammond, director of the Economic and Business Research Center at the Eller College of Management at the

University of Arizona. “It can also offer workers the chance to increase wages by changing jobs. It could also reflect poor job quality.’’ But there’s a flip side. “For firms, this can mean increased costs as they experience high rates of turnover,’’ Hammond said. That also shows up in data that shows the number of job openings is now above 240,000. Compare that to 2009 during the recession when there were just 40,000 slots for which employers were looking for workers. And the lack of availabil-

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ity of other -- and potentially better -- jobs during the recession was not lost on Arizona workers: The quite rate at that time dropped below 1.6. Danny Seiden, executive director of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said he doesn’t see the rising numbers as necessarily a bad thing. “Increasing quit rates are often a sign of confidence in the economy,’’ he said. “People tend not to quit their jobs when they don’t think they can go out and get another one.’’ And Seiden said it’s not surprising that Arizona is near the top of the list of folks who quit their jobs. He noted that Arizona shares one thing with some of the other states with high quit rates: A high reliance on jobs in tourism and the hospitality industry, including hotels and restaurants. “People have left that industry,’’ Seiden said, a sector of the economy that traditionally has low wages. But he said that the data also shows that hiring is going on in other industries.

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“So I don’t think it’s an issue of people leaving and not going back to work,’’ Seiden said. But that shift in employment, in turn, is having ripple effects, leaving restaurant owners struggling to find workers. “They offered things like signing bonuses to get people through the door,’’ he said. “They’re paying higher than they ever had,’’ Seiden said. “So I do think employers have kind of raised the stakes for getting employees into the door.’’ In March 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said Arizona employers in the leisure and hospitality industry were paying an average of just $17.55 an hour. That figure is now $20.81, an increase of nearly 19% in just that time period. Seiden said this isn’t limited to the service industry. Consider, he said, the fact that companies like Amazon and Starbucks are not just paying higher than minimum wage but even offering fringe benefits like free college. All this, however, comes at a cost. “The more employers have to pay, the more goods are going to have to cost,’’ Seiden said. “One of the unfortunate things you see when there’s a tight labor market, that’s a contributing factor to inflation,’’ he said. That’s most immediately visible to consumers at the gasoline pump and what they’re paying at the grocery store. In fact, the consumer price index for the Phoenix area – the only measurement for Arizona – is up 11% year over year, compared with 8.3% nationally. All that, in turn, raises the question of whether the unemployment rate in Arizona is too low, with too many employers with job openings chasing too

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NEWS

QUIT

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

from page 24

few folks out of work with offers of big raises that, in turn, fuels inflation. Hammond cites the fact that while the quit rate in Arizona has been going up, the “hire’’ rate – the percentage of employed workers added to a company’s payroll – has remained relatively flat. “This reflect increased churn in the labor market as firms seeking to rapidly ramp up product meets workers re-evaluating career opportunities,’’ he said, quitting one job to take another at a different firm, a different occupation

or an entirely different industry. “We are in unique times,’’ said Walls, with a sharp increase in employer needs for workers. The positive sign, he said, is there continues to be an increase in the Arizona labor force, the number of people working or looking for work. But putting those people into the available jobs is another matter. “It’s taking some time for these individuals to find the type of employment that they’re looking for,’’ Walls said. “With unemployment being as low as it is, they have likely more choices and can be pickier with the jobs they’re deciding to accept.’’

Seiden said he will never say that the state’s jobless rate is too low. But he acknowledged there’s another side to that question. “Is the economy too hot right now and does it need to slow down a little bit to help lower inflation?’’ he asked. And that, in turn, leads to questions of whether the Federal Reserve Board will take action nationally to curb that, to the point that cooling the economy could lead to a recession. Still, Seiden said he believes that, whatever action the Fed takes, the Arizona economy is “resilient’’ and will weather all of this. It starts, he said, with the fact that

there is a much more diversified job base. In 2006, before the recession, one job out of every 11 was in the construction industry. That made Arizona particularly at risk when the bottom dropped out of the housing market. Now there are more jobs in the manufacturing sector than those in construction. “And those are high-paying jobs,’’ Seiden said. “We’re doing really well.’’ Thursday’s unemployment report showed that private sector companies added 9,600 workers between March and April, a growth rate of 0.4%. Year over year, the figure is 4.2%

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For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Chandler gets state’s first indoor pickleball complex SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Arizona’s first indoor pickleball facility – and the largest of its kind in the nation – has opened in Chandler. The 15-court Pickleball on the northeast corner of Ray and Rural roads is open for play and tours 6 a.m.-midnight daily, offering not only an air-conditioned, wind-free playground for participants in one of America’s fastest-growing sports but also opportunities for corporate events, birthday and anniversary parties and the prospect of tournaments. Owner and Chandler pickleballer Mike Rodriguez is beaming over the realization of a dream that began when he and some buddies were standing in a windy court outside in January 2021. “For the serious and advanced player, the elements have to go,” said Rodrigues, who retrofitted the strip mall’s anchor – a Gold’s Gym. “I never thought of Arizona as windy until I started playing pickleball,” he explained. “Since it is a whiffle ball, the slightest amount of breeze can carry what would have been a great cut shot and land it 2 inches out of bounds. Playing indoors will take all the extraneous elements out so that the only thing that affects your game – is your game. And that’s what the best players want, to let their game stand on its own.”

The 15-court Pickleball Kingdom at the northeast corner of Ray and Rural roads offers an indoor facility for one of the nation’s fastest growing sports. (Special to the SanTan Sun News)

“Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America because it’s fun,” he added. “What’s not fun is waiting for a court, playing in the heat, and having the wind affect your game. We’ve solved all those problems.” The National Pickleball Association saw its membership increase by 650 percent between 2013 and 2019.

The Sports & Fitness Industry Association, which tracks the popularity of sports through the sale of related merchandise, estimated that from 2018 to the end of last year, the number of active pickleball players has grown from 3.1 million to 4.2 million. That growth included a 21.3 percent increase last year over 2019 as the

pandemic forced Americans to rethink social distancing and the value of socializing outdoors, the Sports & Fitness Industry Association said. Municipalities can’t keep up with the demand for more free places to play and have spent millions of dollars over See

PICKLEBALL on page 29

Clinic provides free dental, mental health care BY KEN SAIN Staff Writer

It’s no secret the pandemic caused a lot of stress for and children were not immune. Hygienists with the East Valley Community Dental Clinics noticed the problem last year and so they partnered with Southwest Behavioral and Health Services to address it. The children’s dental clinics in Chandler and Gilbert are screening patients from low-income families to see if they might benefit from some counseling with mental health professionals. “Why this collaboration is starting was because we started seeing children with some health concerns, mental health concerns, that we were like, ‘we have to do something about this,’” said Diana Westphal, the community oral health dental clinic supervisor for Dignity Health, which runs the two East Valley clinics. She said that one of the reasons this partnership makes sense is that the financial burden is one hurdle that keeps low-income families from reaching out for help. Becky Grudowski, program director with Southwest Behavioral and Health

The Chandler CARE Center provides provides free preventive dental care and mental health screenings to children in the Chandler Unified School District. The program includes, from left, Becky Grudowski, program director for Southwest Behavioral and Health Service and school-based program for the East Valley; Sharon Gillon AP, registered dental hygienist; and Diana Westphal, Dignity Health Children’s Dental Clinic supervisor. (David Minton/Staff Photographer)

Services, said they received a grant to pay for mental health services for up to 10 children. So far, about 30 children have been referred to mental health counselors for additional screening since the program began in February. Grudowski

said that many of those did not need professional counseling, and they still have funds available. When a child from a low-income family shows up at one of the two clinics for dental care, they are screened. The parents of children younger than 12

are asked the questions to determine if additional screening is required. Children who are 12 and older fill out their own screening form. “And then we take a look at that, based on what we see, we might ask a follow up question or two to clarify,” said Sharon Gilloon, one of the dental hygienists for Dignity Health. “And then we’ll pass that off, we’ll explain to them what would happen next, if they did indicate here that they wanted counseling or if they indicated some areas that they have trained us to look at as being critical areas.” Each hygienist received about four hours of training to help them screen the children they treat. Grudowski said there have always been some children who had mental health issues. “It’s something that’s always been prevalent, but yes, I would say the pandemic has 100% increased the problems of mental health issues among adolescents and youth, specifically things like anxiety, depression and self-harm behaviors,” Grudowski said. “We’ve seen an increase in those issues.” Both sides say the partnership has worked out well so far. See

DENTAL on page 29

BUSINESS

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Fulton Ranch Marketplace building sells for $1.7M SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

A Gilbert company recently bought a two-suite building in the Fulton Ranch Marketplace Plaza for $1.7 million Chandler Heights Group LLC purchased the 1.19-acre site at 208 W. Chandler Heights Road, near Arizona Avenue, from Chandler Heights Investments LLC, according to Valley real estate tracker vizzda.com. The 6,097-square-foot single-story building was built in 2008 and sold four years ago for $1.35 million, according to vizzda. The building comprises two suites, one about 3,88 square feet and the other 2,711 square feet.

PICKLEBALL

from page 28

the last five years to try and feed the voracious appetite for courts. At Pickleball Kingdom, specialized AC ducts eliminate the heat and wind of outdoor courts. The facility’s specific lighting illuminates the courts without the negative effects of the sun on the game and on players, he noted. Pickleball Kingdom also offers a free app that allows players to reserve a court, eliminating the waiting for a court that typically eats up most of a player’s time. With so many people competing to play on the courts early in the morning or after the sun goes

DENTAL

from page 28

“We started seeing some signs that created an awareness in our team, like, we have to do something to help these

The sale price represented a squarefoot price of $273.91, vizzda said. Meanwhile, an Atlanta, Georgia, company has bought a Chandler apartment complex at Arizona Avenue and Ray Road for $86 million. The Carroll Organization, a real estate investment firm with more than 100 properties and 40,000 apartment units in eight states renamed the complex Brio on Ray after purchasing the 191-unit complex from Pacific Coast Partners of Oregon. Built in 2016, the complex comprises seven two- and three-story buildings totaling nearly 230,000 square feet on 6.7 acres of land.

A Gilbert LLC recently paid $1.7 million for a two-=suite building in Fulton Ranch Marketplace Plaza, according to Valley real estate tracker vizzda.com. (Special to SanTan Sun News)

down, the wait times make the experience less attractive, Rodrigues said. “We are excited that Pickleball Kingdom has opened in West Chandler,” said Mayor Hartke. “Repurposing a bigbox gym into 15 indoor pickleball courts is an excellent healthy, indoor exercise option for our Chandler residents.” Pickleball Kingdom is also launching a new initiative to introduce pickleball to everyone. Pickleball 101 is a free class for the public, regardless if they’re a member or not. It’s an introduction to the sport, overview of the rules and coaching of the basic fundamentals of the game. “At the Kingdom, we believe that pickleball is good for you physically, socially, and spiritually,” Rodrigues said.

“We want everyone in the game. The reason most people haven’t tried the sport yet is either they don’t know anyone who will teach them, they don’t have the equipment, or they don’t know where to go. “As ambassadors of the sport, we decided to eliminate all those barriers into this great sport ,” he added, noting the class is offered most days of the week. “Anyone can go to our website and follow the link to get registered for a class time that works for them,” he said. “We have highly qualified coaches to teach them, we provide the paddles and balls for our students to use, and they’ll be playing on the custom-colored courts of Pickleball Kingdom,”

Rodrigues said. “All they have to do is show up with tennis shoes or sneakers. I would like to personally invite everyone to sign up for one of our free classes and experience what all your friends are addicted to.” Besides reserved court times, Pickleball Kingdom also offers locker rooms and showers, ball machines and a pro shop, leagues and lessons and a lounge area. There also is a mezzanine viewing area and daily drop-in times are available. Its three levels of membership range from $85 a month or $935 annually to $190 a month of $2,090 for a year, with no court or player fees. More details are at PickleballKingdom.com

families,” Westphal said. “So that’s how the whole idea came about, where we started searching for resources and navigating the system. And we learned that it was challenging to navigate the system to begin with.”

Gilloon said she believes they are helping children who might not otherwise get the help they need. “I honestly feel just privileged to be able to offer some services to the kids,” she said. “I feel like it’s definitely

needed, and the earlier the better in an individual’s life. They can learn some skills to cope with some of the things we’re seeing.”

The Ostrich embodies passion of drink-making BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Staff Writer

Hidden below Crust Simply Italian in Downtown Chandler, The Ostrich is all about fantasy. A prohibition-style space, The Ostrich is dark and harkens the city’s ostrich lore, but, according to Livability, it’s the best speakeasy in Arizona. More than a space to wait for a Crust table, The Ostrich serves well-crafted cocktails with a Roaring Twenties vibe. “Our bartenders are classically trained, so they can do all the classic cocktails – anything that you would expect to find at a cocktail bar that’s being run properly,” says Jared Ammon, craft bar manager. “Tyler started a dealer’s choice cocktail. Essentially, the guest comes with a few buzzwords pertaining to the ﬂavor, the method of preparation and the spirit they want. Our bartenders are trained to make them a cocktail

Jared Ammon, left, craft bar manager and The Ostrich in Chandler, and Tyler Zhorne, craft operations manager, said patrons will experience a Roaring Twnties vibe at their new speakeasy. (Dennis Murphy/Contributor)

based on those preferences just as quickly as they can.” “Tyler” is Tyler Zhorne, the craft operations manager. With seven years of bartending experience under his belt, Zhorne helps lead a team of artisan bartenders who embody the art and passion of classic drink making. “The team that we have formed at The Ostrich is full of personality, passion and goals. They are all working on bettering themselves which carries over to their work and they are not afraid to express themselves,” Zhorne says. “We have changed the culture, enabling people to thrive and grow. We continue to educate and motivate our team to continue to grow as individuals.” The staff aims to incorporate more community into The Ostrich, launching a reverse happy hour to accommodate late-night industry guests and partSee

OSTRICH on page 30

BUSINESS

OSTRICH

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

from page 29

nering with West Alley BBQ, Tiki Dan, Matt Pladgeman of 36 Below, and Miguel Mora with Martina’s in Scottsdale for upcoming special events. Bartending wasn’t the first career choice for Ammon nor Zhorne. Zhorne studied education while Ammon focused on kinesiology. “I was going to go into the medical field but when I started taking jobs like that, it was hard to work in a field where people weren’t always happy to see me,” says Ammon, who was a chiropractic assistant, looking for a master’s program. “I was introduced to the cocktail

scene around that time period. I realized that people come in to see the bartender and that makes their day, or makes them feel comfortable or accepted. It enables the opposite of how I was feeling. I just dropped everything I was doing and dove in. That was six years ago.” Zhorne is proud of the energy he’s created at The Ostrich since he and Ammon started in January. This staff is passionate about its job. “They take real pride in it,” he says. “It shows from the bartender to the bar back to the boss to the host at the door. So you, as a guest, when you come in here, you’re going to instantly feel that energy. “You’re going to feel welcome,

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instead of feeling like a burden, which I feel like at some cocktail bars. We never want that feeling. We want to be a neighborhood bar that can make you something wild.” Soon, The Ostrich will open a Gilbert outpost at Williams Field and Recker roads at the new Crust Simply Italian. “That one is going to be street level,” Zhorne says. “It’s going to take away a little bit of the speakeasy vibe. It’s going to be a lot more intimate and knowledge driven. “So, when you come in, you’re going to get the whole experience. We’ll take you to that next level. If you want to come in here and learn about a certain whisky, we got a guy who knows all the whiskies.” The goal at The Ostrich is to educate guests. Zhorne contends it’s going to be a challenge to replicate the atmosphere, customer service and knowledge of the Chandler space. But he’s up for it. “It’s going to be a cool challenge,” he says. “You have to make sure every building is operating at that high standard because we have to make sure we have the right people back there and the right people with the right knowledge.” Still, Ammon says, guests can order what they like—without judgment. “We’ll make them a vodka tonic, let’s say, and let them sit there and drink it,” he says. “Then, they can look around and see what’s going on. Cocktail bars are intimidating if you’ve never really gone to them.

“Hopefully, by drink No. 2, they’re a little more open to trying new stuff.” The staff — which also includes lead bartender Samantha Dengler, bartender Adam Slaton and server Tyler Yenkala —continually comes up with new offerings. “We have a constant Rolodex going on in our minds,” Zhorne says. “The goal was to have a set of really good drinks to complement the dealer’s choice. There are a lot of craft bars out there that do like these super crazy infusions and high-tech equipment, which that kind of stuff is awesome and we love it. But here, because we’re such a high-volume bar, we just want to make sure it’s a great, well thought out drink that I know complements that we’re doing with the restaurants. And, if I can leave a lasting impression, or if I can take you from your 9 to 5 job, and forget all your worries, that’s the best.”

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

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Dylan Raiola sets sights high in Chandler BY ZACH ALVIRA Sports Editor

Dylan Raiola’s time as quarterback in football has been limited. He only started playing the position two years ago under former NFL quarterback Jon Kitna at Burleson High School in Texas. He sat behind Kitna’s son, Jalen, who was previously at Brophy when his father was the head coach of the Broncos. Raiola became close with the family during his childhood. His father, former NFL center Dominic, played with Kitna in Detroit for the Lions. Raiola learned from both Kitnas. By the time he entered his sophomore year, he was ready to become the team’s full-time starter and quickly excelled. “I felt really good and I am happy with what I’ve accomplished, but I have two more years to develop,” Raiola said. “Now it’s all about getting ready for college and winning here at Chandler. Being around this game, I’ve always been locked in. I just need to keep working.” Raiola passed for 3,341 yards, 32 touchdowns and just five interceptions as a sophomore last fall. He led the Elks to an 8-4 record which included a trip to the playoffs. The 6-foot-3, 220-pounder quickly shot up the ranks as a national recruit. His first scholarship offer came before his sophomore season from the University of Georgia. By October, he added

Chandler coach Rick Garretson said Dylan and Dominic Raiola add new dimension to the Chandler offense. Dylan, an Ohio State commit heading into his junior season, is a natural leader that puts his head down and likes to work, according to Garretson. (Dave Minton/Staff)

move was to be closer to family. He was initially going to enroll at Chandler before moving away two years ago, so he came back to head coach Rick Garretson and the Wolves. Garretson said Raiola adds a new dimension to the offense. Dominic helping out as an assistant with the offensive line adds even more.

I think I just have to take it day by day, be “ myself and trusting what plans God has for me, we’re going to get a lot of hype because we’re Chandler. But I think we are going to be really good because of our chemistry and how we treat each other.

”

offers from the likes of Alabama, Baylor, Texas Tech, West Virginia and Nebraska, his father’s alma mater. But his recruitment was still just getting started. In late October he visited Ohio State University, where he was offered a scholarship. Notre Dame quickly followed, among others. In January, Raiola and his family moved back to Arizona, where they lived before he entered high school. Originally from Hawaii, Raiola said the

– Dylan Raiola

Raiola immediately meshed with the Chandler players and coaching staff. He started working with his offensive line, arguably his favorite unit on the field. After workouts he frequently hung out with them, taking them out to eat on at least one occasion in late April before the start of spring ball. “I love them,” Raiola said of the offensive line. “They work hard and they’re funny. They’re always going to get blamed for things but never get the credit they deserve. It’s little things,

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

I just want to make sure they know I appreciate them.” He also started to work on the chemistry with his wideouts, which features a talented group headlined by junior Justice Spann and senior Junior Nsubuga. A track star for the Wolves, Nsubuga has the length at 6-foot-3 and the top-end speed to blow by opposing cornerbacks. He has become a legitimate deep threat for the Wolves, and he is happy to have a quarterback like Raiola that he knows will be able to get it to him in stride. “Our timing is everything,” Nsubuga said. “I’m excited for it. This is the first time I’ll be in a position that I’ve really prepared for.” Chandler’s spring ball practices were met with national media attention and several college scouts there for Raiola and a slew of other high-level Division I players on the Wolves’ roster. Little did they know, Raiola already has his school of choice in mind. On Monday, May 9, the day of his 16th birthday, Raiola announced his commitment to Ohio State at Impact Church in Scottsdale. Raiola said his decision, while early in his career, came at the right time. He felt at home with Buckeyes coach Ryan Day on his visit. He spoke with several current Buckeyes while in Columbus, including former Chandler wideout Kyion Grayes, and maintained contact with them throughout the process. “It’s a big-time program,” Dominic

said. “When you talk about the (College Football Playoff) every year, you’ve gotta mention Ohio State. But it’s really the meat and potatoes about it. It’s a blue-collar program. You put your hard hat on and go to work every day. “He’s going to have a good opportunity there and an opportunity to put his best foot forward and work.” The Wolves will now compete at various 7-on-7 and big-man competitions before heading to their camp in July. That will be the team’s final getaway before they dive in to fall practices and open the season in San Diego against Cathedral Catholic. Other key matchups for Chandler this season include a rematch of last year’s Open Division championship against Saguaro and the gauntlet that is the Premier Region. The Wolves’ game against Basha on Oct. 28 will be featured on ESPN. It’s one of the tougher schedules in the state, but it’s something the team is prepared for. Raiola, now without the pressure of his recruitment, said he aims to keep his head down and be the best he can be for his team. “I think I just have to take it day by day, be myself and trusting what plans God has for me,” Raiola said. “We’re going to get a lot of hype because we’re Chandler. But I think we are going to be really good because of our chemistry and how we treat each other.”

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Chandler native publishes new fantasy series installment BY JANELLE MOLONY Contributor

Chandler native Parris Sheets, Desert Ridge High School’s color guard coach and now a popular young adult author, has published the third book in her fantasy series, The Essence of Ohr. The new title, Beyond the Flame, also contains a secret reveal at the end that is certain to excite fans. Sheets’ books are inspired by her own experiences as a youth and explore a fantastical new universe on the planet Ohr. In the series, a ragtag team of elemental do-gooders fight a fallen god who has sent their world into chaos. Unforeseen events demand fifteenyear-old Kole accept hard truths about himself, while managing to keep in step with mythical gods on a mission. Readers are introduced to walking trees, shadow villains, rock beings, talking blossoms and more, as Kole navigates a world unlike any seen before. The book series is different from many YA novels because of the special challenge that the main character faces. “He goes through a big transformation in the first book which makes him

Chandler native Parris Sheets holds a copy of her first novel, “Warden’s Reign.” She has published the third book in her fantasy series, “The Essence of Ohr.” (Special to SanTan Sun News)

more vulnerable and more relatable to today’s generation,” Sheets said.

Though ugly-duckling tales have long been told, Sheets emphasized a degree of empathy teens and adult YA fans can experience through Kole’s journey. In 2015, Sheets began her own personal transformation towards being a healthier, stronger self. She began weightlifting and has since lost 100 lbs. On relating to her main character, she explained, “It’s like, you’ve always been you, but [because of an exterior change] the world sees you as somebody different and with new expectations.” In her fictional book, she coaches youth through the insecurities and doubts that arise with such an event. Sheets’ first book, Warden’s Reign, published in 2020, won the Pinnacle Book Achievement Award for YA fantasy and secured a bronze medal in the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards for YA fiction. Readers have commented on Amazon, “I was hooked by the first paragraph,” and that it “sweeps you away right from the beginning.” Sheets confessed it took her nearly 10 years to finish. “It was a long and difficult process, but with a gratifying

result,” she explained. Sheets attributed her passion for writing to an encouraging fifth grade teacher she hopes to thank in person one day. In junior high, she read voraciously and felt convicted to write the kind of books that she already loved reading. As a YA author now, she still wants her readers (of any age) to feel like they can “relax and get lost in the story.” By the reviews coming in, it is reasonable to say she has hit the mark. Sheets said fans can expect a surprise in her fourth book, The Hollow Key, in the way the main characters will complete the final leg of their journey. “It’s complicated,” Sheets said, explaining that preview readers have become quite emotional over the book so far. She hinted at a bittersweet ending because of the epic battles Kole faces. “It can never be a perfect ending for him,” said, assuring her reading audience that the final chapter will be extremely satisfying. Visit ParrisSheetsAuthor.com and find her first three books on Amazon today.

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Flanked by Chandler Unified Superintendent Frank Narducci on his right and Sun Lakes Rotary Club President Jon Lyons, Auxier Elementary special ed teacher Sawyer Merrill holds a blow-up of the check representing his award for being named the club’s Teacher of the Year. (Special to SanTan Sun News) SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

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The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes has named Sawyer Merrill, a special education teacher at Chandler Unified’s Auxier Elementary School in Queen Creek, educator of the year. Merrill received the club’s 2023 Sandy Lundberg Educator of the Year Award, which was established in 2017 to demonstrate the club’s continuing commitment to the Chandler Unified School District’s educational objec-

tives and “the educators who work so diligently and professionally to achieve those objectives.” Merrill graduated from California Lutheran University with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and sports medicine with an emphasis in education in 2010. He received his cross-categorical K-12 teaching certificate from Rio Salado University in 2011. With over 10 years of teaching special education, Merrill’s philosophy of education is that all children are

unique, and each student must have a motivating educational environment where they can meet their full potential through growing physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. The Rotary Club’s education committee’s selection process included review of several parent testimonials in support of Merrill. “Our family has been affected by Mr. Merrill’s amazing abilities and his passion to challenge each student to be the best one can be,” a parent wrote. “We have seen a complete transformation in our child and trust Mr. Merrill to shape our child’s education. Mr. Merrill is a voice for his students and advocates for their inclusion in school activities; and Mr. Merrill is the embodiment of this award, his spirit lights up the lives of every child he works with.” In May 2018, the first award was proudly presented to Sandy Lundberg, the principal of the newly opened Casteel High School and an active member of the Rotary Club of Sun Lakes, “in which she provided the same energy to the Club endeavors as she did to her profession” a club spokeswoman explained. “Her passion for children and community shone through whatever she did. Due to Sandy’s untimely passing, the Rotary Club of Sun Lakes proudly sponsors and has named the award The Sandy Lundberg Educator of the Year Award.”

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

Sun Lakes Rotary powers robotics team to global meet SANTAN SUN NEWS STAFF

Rotary Club of Sun Lakes members and guests met students during a demonstration of the competitive robotics program it supports through a $2,000 donation. Several teams of students attended a three-day tournament at the VEX IQ Middle School World Robotics Championship in Dallas and two teams reached the division finals by placing fifth and seventh in their divisions out of 800 teams from 40+ countries around the world. An all-girl team won the Inspire Award for the second time. “The world competition is the experience of a lifetime,” Sun Lakes Rotary spokeswoman Dr. Honora Norton said. “The opening ceremonies included a parade of nations, much like the Olympics. The closing ceremony is known for the game reveal for the next year.” Sun Lakes Rotarians met three competitive teams with students from several CUSD schools and one student from a Phoenix High School. All the students attended Fulton Elementary School at one time or another. Current competitive students are from Gilbert’s

Lori Ruff, far right rear, poses with Chandler Unified students who attended the VEX IQ competition in Texas last month. (Dr. Honora Norton)

Weinberg Elementary and Chandler’s Knox Elementary, San Tan and Bogle junior high schools. The Robotic Competition teacher is Lori Ruff, a retired engineer who started teaching robotics at Fulton Elementary in 2017 and currently teaches robotics intro to 10 students there. These students learn the fundamentals for a year before progressing to the competitive program. After teaching a group of middle school students on a volunteer basis for a couple years, Lori decided to form Robotics Edge LLC to teach competitive teams. Her former students often come back to help coach the current students. Her dream has always been a self-sustaining program and this year she achieved it. Next year, she plans to have three elementary competitive teams, one middle school competitive team and a new high school competitive team. As part of the Robotics demonstration at the RCSL dinner meeting held at Sun Lakes Palo Verde Restaurant, each student shared his/her best robotics learning experience. The students, as well as, Ruff, also expressed gratitude for RCSL’s several years of support of this exciting program.

Rotary adds muscle to Fulton Elementary STEM teams BY DR. HONORA NORTON Guest Writer

The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes (RCSL) supported the A World in Motion (AWIM) program, which was created by the Society of Automotive Engineers Foundation to get elementary students excited about math and science in support of Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM.) Ten different classes at Fulton Elementary School worked in design teams to build, test, and race model balloon powered JetToy cars and gravity cruiser vehicles. The JetToy cars were required to meet specific criteria to travel far and go fast. Jet propulsion, friction, air resistance, and design were the core scientific concepts students explored in this challenge. The cruiser gravity vehicles design concepts included forces, Newton’s laws of motion, gravity, and engineering design. Last month, each competing class raced in the preliminaries where the top three teams in each class were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals. Following the class races, the first-place winners raced for the final top race award. The medals were presented by RCSL/AWIM volunteers. The committee included Rotay President Jon Lyons, Club Event Chair Don Robins, and Bill Giessing, Stan Klein, Bill Klein, Gary Kay, Ana Logan, Bill Crump, Val Crump, and ASU Polytechnic students Lauren Castillo ND Mikayla Castillo. The committee members, who are residents of San Tan Valley, Sun Lakes and Chandler, were on site for weeks at the school to assist the students with the design, building, and testing their

Above: Fulton Elementary Gravity Cruiser Vehicle Competition participants had a blast. Right: Sun Lakes Rotarian AWIM volunteers attending the Gravity Cruiser Vehicle Competition at Fulton Elementary included, from left, Gary Kay, Stan Klein, Bill Klein, Ana Logan (holding school’s award plaque), Bill Giessing and Jon Lyons. (Courtesy Sun Lakes Rotary)

vehicles. The Rotary Club of Sun Lakes is grateful to the school’s faculty for letting it bring AWIM Program to Fulton Elementary School again. All those involved noted that it is always a wonderful experience for the students. An updated school award plaque will be presented to Fulton Elementary Principal Shannon Hannon for placement in the school trophy bookcase. Information: sunlakesrotary.com.

THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

For more community news visit SanTanSun.com

Someone listens as we come to grips with challenges RABBI IRWIN WIENER Columnist

We certainly live in very distressing times. There is domestic violence, international terror that has taken untold lives for no reason. Our economic uncertainties vex us to shifts in attitudes that move as fast as our doubts. Everywhere we turn the news is depressing. It is now so numbing that we are amazed if a day passes that does not contain some horror. Imagine, if you will, some 4,000 years ago, a simple shepherd, Abraham, content with all that life has to offer, receives a message. The message: Take your son Isaac to Mount Moriah, there you will sacrifice him to God. No debate, no doubt, just blind obedience. Can anyone imagine receiving such a call, and answering it? The angel may have saved Isaac, but the doubt of such a request lingers. That we would even consider such a test of faith boggles the mind. Elie Wiesel wrote a cantata involving this story in which he laments: “Do you God recall the sacrifice re-

quested over there on Mount Moriah? Among all the men on earth it was me you claimed. In the Holocaust you made me climb, then descend Mount Moriah crushed and silent. I did not know, my Lord, I did not know I was to see my children, old and young, arrive in the flames of hate. Alas, there was no rescuing angel.” Yet, Elie Wiesel survived this horrendous ordeal to become an author, a husband, a father, and most of all a humanitarian. We look around us and see illness and despair. We visit tragedies and look for consolation. Think about all the horrors experienced by so many, perpetrated by a few, and then ask, “for what, O Lord, for what?” When we measure our discomfort with life to the forgotten, perhaps we can determine that life, with all its difficulties, is not so bad. We may endure pain for a moment, but lifelessness seems forever. Is it a coincidence, or even ironic, that the Israelite’s Temple was built on Mount Moriah? To me, it is a lesson in survival. To me it is a lesson in fortitude. To me it is a symbol of faith. On the

very spot where history almost died, a new chapter in the people’s journey began. To me it is also a clear message that our humanity’s search for understanding took a new route as we learn from the Prophet Hosea, “Take your words to God.” Everyone needs to take their words, whether they are words of praise, or of condemnation, to God. We are given, if you will, a permission slip by tradition to yell, scream and bargain with the Divine. Perhaps we even cry out, as did Elie Wiesel, “You can live with God, you can live against God, but you cannot live without God.” Words are the essential ingredient in communicating. And these words which contain all the thoughts of whatever we are thinking remind us that even as we question, and utter words of disgust and despair, we also announce that it is God’s will. The challenges we face in life contain all these doubts and fears, but they also contain the ingredients of hope and faith. We question, we doubt, we even argue-at times; we have become faithless, but here we are. Are we wondering if all that we know and yet to learn has

any meaning? The challenges we face include speaking out when we witness injustice, or the indiscriminate annihilation of innocent people for no other reason than the color of their skin, or challenge the right to worship a God; fight tyranny and hatred. All of us cannot be legions in the fight for survival, but we can, and must support the institutions designed to lead the fight and show the way. That is how we participate. We are a different kind of soldier – a soldier who proudly declares that life is worth living, and we are part of the response available to us to ensure continuation. Above all, the challenges we face each and every day involve the understanding that even though we feel helpless, at times, we still speak out in the hope that someone will hear, will listen. There will be victories, and there will be defeats, but even when we lose, we win because we can say the words and perform the deeds that will change the world. Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D., is the spiritual leader of the Sun Lakes Jewsih Congregation.

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THE SUNDAY SANTAN SUN NEWS | JUNE 5, 2022

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Barenaked Ladies have nothing to prove BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GetOut Editor

Barenaked Ladies singer Ed Robertson knows there’s something to be said for talent. But the “One Week” band’s show comes with impromptu jams and, well, mistakes. “I know the songs are going to go great because we work really hard on them,” Robertson said via Zoom. “We take that part seriously. For me, the whole ‘show’ is the stuff that happens between the songs — the banter, spontaneity, and the funny, stupid songs we make up. That other stuff happens every night.” Robertson contended that stale shows cause burnout or boredom with other bands. Barenaked Ladies keep it fresh. “We’re on a tightrope every night. We’re swinging for the fences,” he said laughing. “We never know what we’re going to do, let alone what the other guys in the band are going to do. “It’s so exciting. It adds such a layer of excitement and the unknown for every single show. It keeps it fresh for us and the audience. I was saying to another performer the other day, the superpower of Barenaked Ladies is that we do not care if we screw up. If you don’t care if you screw up, then you have nothing to be nervous about.” Fans can see that for themselves when the “Last Summer on Earth” tour comes to Arizona Federal Theatre in Phoenix on Thursday, June 9. A few of Barenaked Ladies’ “spectacular train wrecks” are hilarious to Robertson. The band — which also includes bassist Jim Creeggan, drummer Tyler Stewart and multi-instrumentalist Kevin Hearn — just shrug it off and move on. “It’s how people know our shows are real,” he said. The last two years have been strange for everyone, including BNL, who had to postpone their tour twice. Now that the jaunt with the Gin Blossoms and Toad the Wet Sprocket is back on track, Robertson is relieved. “I’m thrilled that we were able to keep the lineup and all the shows,” Robertson said. “We actually were able to add a show to the tour.” During Barenaked Ladies’ European leg, the setlist included a mix of hits, tracks from their latest album, “Detour de Force” and deep cuts. The collection continues Barenaked Ladies’ penchant for writing quirky-yet-heartfelt songs. Produced by Juno and Grammy award winners Eric Ratz and Mark Howard, “Detour de Force” fuses the band members’ writing voices into a cohesive work. The 14 tracks include the sonically adventurous “Flip,” the hopeful

Barenaked Ladies are, from left, drummer Tyler Stewart, multi-instrumentalist Kevin Hearn, singer/guitarist Ed Robertson and bassist Jim Creeggan. (Barenaked Ladies/Submitted)

and infectious “Good Life” and “New Disaster.” “It was a weird one to make because everybody had to roll with the punches

we only build in a limited window to make a record and then everybody’s plans changed.” The plans stuck, however, to re-

on a tightrope every night. We’re swinging “forWe’re the fences, we never know what we’re going to do, let alone what the other guys in the band are going to do. ”

– Ed Robertson

through this weird time,” Robertson said. “But for it, (the pandemic break) afforded us something we’ve never had while making a record — that’s time. We got to actually listen to the songs for a few months while everything was closed and think about what some of them needed. Some of them needed things taken away; some of them needed to be fully reapproached.” One version of “Live Well” was scrapped, and Barenaked Ladies went back to the studio and played live, as opposed to recording one instrument at a time. Nearly all the overdubs were removed. “New Disaster” was completely rebuilt from the ground up, something Barenaked Ladies hadn’t previously had the luxury to do. “It’s very expensive to make a record,” he said. “We tour so much that

cord songs that blend dark lyrics with upbeats. Sometimes, it’s the other way around. “Even ‘Flip,’ which is a very positive-sounding song, is really about all the insanity of social media and this strange point in communication that we find ourselves in,” he said. “It’s sort of encouraging that there is another side to this discourse. “Like the old saying, ‘If it rages, it engages.’ Unfortunately, it’s just a bug in the human operating system and the companies are exploiting it. We need to step away and step back. I heard somebody say recently, ‘I think to myself, did I know that person 5 minutes ago. And if not, I move on.’” That wordplay is something that keeps Barenaked Ladies relevant — that and caring. “I think we’ve always really taken our good fortune seriously and we never

take it for granted,” Robertson said. “We respect our audience, and we try hard every time. I love what I do, and I love that I get to do it. So, I do everything I can to nurture that. It’s also communication within the band. It’s making sure everybody’s engaged and attached to what we’re doing and why we’re doing it. “I always say this, because it’s true, it’s more fun than ever. Now, I’ve got nothing to prove. I’ve accomplished 10 times more than I ever thought I would. The fact that I still get to be a guy in a rock band and get to get on stage in venues that, frankly, I would pay to play in is amazing. I get paid to play in them.” Robertson said his good buddy, Canadian musician and actor Alan Doyle, explains it best. “He’ll say something to the effect of ‘How lucky are we?’ I’ve really taken that to heart over the years,” he said. “Literally all my dreams came true 20 years ago.”

Barenaked Ladies w/ Toad the Wet Sprocket and Gin Blossoms When: 7 p.m. June 9 Where: Arizona Federal Theater, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix Cost: Tickets Start At $56 Info: Livenation.com