West Valley View - West 07-01-2020 by Times Media Group

1,000-acre ﬁre forces evacuations

BY TOM SCANLON West Valley View Managing Editor

The area near Phoenix International Raceway was hot last weekend, for all the wrong reasons.

Instead of burning rubber from race cars, smoke poured over the West Valley from a wild ﬁre ignited in a riverbed before sundown Friday, June 26.

The ﬁre raged Friday night and Saturday, growing to nearly 1,000 acres.

An evacuation was ordered at 10 p.m. June 26 for some residents of south Avondale. It was lifted the next day.

Crews from Goodyear, Avondale and ﬁre departments around the West Valley worked intensely to protect homes, and the evacuation order was lifted Saturday night.

Late Sunday, the ﬁre was 80% contained, according to Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management spokeswoman Tiffany Davila. “The cause of the ﬁre is under investigation,” Davila said.

According to a Federal Emergency Management Agency spokesman, “Arizona submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant for the Avondale Fire. At

the time of the request, the ﬁre threatened approximately 150 homes in and around

Bars and gyms closed, school delayed

BY TOM SCANLON West Valley View Managing Editor

Though a big show is tentatively on in Goodyear, other traditional West Valley celebrations were canceled after alarming increases of COVID-19.

At a Monday, June 29, press conference, Gov. Doug Ducey ordered more changes,

closing bars, gyms, movie theaters and water parks “effective 8 p.m today with a targeted reopening date in 30 days.

“We are going to delay the ﬁrst day of school until Aug. 17,” Ducey said. He again pleaded with people to “stay home if you can.”

Last week, the Agua Fria Uniﬁed School

District canceled graduation plans.

Agua Fria, Canyon View, Desert Edge, Millennium and Verrado high school graduations scheduled July 1 at State Farm Stadium will not take place.

“We waited as long as possible before

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A weekend wildﬁre near Phoenix International Raceway charred 1,000 acres, burning trees and bushes. Goodyear, Avondale and other ﬁre crews worked hard to protect homes. (Photo courtesy Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management)

canceling in the hope the infection rate would drop rather than continuing to increase rapidly,” said Dennis Runyan, the Agua Fria superintendent.

But, he added, “Principals are meeting to determine if there might be a virtual opportunity to celebrate the class of 2020. A number of the schools have done community safe parades and other smaller efforts of appreciation, such as names on the marquee and virtual senior awards ceremonies.”

Meanwhile, the cities of Avondale and Buckeye will not host Fourth of July celebrations this year.

“We have hosted a daytime, family-friendly, water-related event in our park the past two years. We will not be holding it this year, due to COVID-19 concerns,” said Pier Simeri, an Avondale spokeswoman.

Similarly, according to Annie DeChance, a Buckeye spokeswoman, “To protect the health and safety of our residents, Buckeye is canceling this year’s Independence Day fireworks celebration as a result of the increase in community spread of COVID-19.”

On Monday, Ducey banned large public gatherings.

“Indoor and outdoor public events of 50 or more will be prohibited,” he said.

Before Ducey’s Monday order, the city of Goodyear was planning to host a Fourth of July fireworks show—but it will be a “drive-thru” event at Goodyear Ballpark.

Asked late Monday afternoon if the event was still on, Tammy Vo, a Goodyear spokeswoman, said she would not have an answer by press time.

Cars at the Goodyear event were to be parked 6 feet apart, following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention physical distancing guidelines.

Families may bring lawn chairs to sit just outside their vehicles to watch the show and listen to KNIX 102.5 FM, which will be broadcasting live from the event starting at 7:30 p.m.

Goodyear Ballpark parking lots open at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 4, with fireworks scheduled to start at 8:30 p.m.

Those who want to stay home can enjoy the fireworks show, which will stream live on the city of Goodyear’s Facebook and YouTube pages. For more event details, visit goodyearaz.

Celebrations continue to be impacted by COVID-19. Agua Fria Union High School District canceled its July 1 graduations, and Buckeye and Avondale will not hold Independence Day celebrations. Goodyear will host a fireworks show at Goodyear Ballpark, but it will be a “drive-thru” event with social distancing. (West Valley View file photos)

gov/fourth.

‘Stay home if you can’

“This is a dangerous virus and we need to slow it down and contain it,” Ducey said.

Florian T. Walter D.O.

Raj S. Rathee, M.D.

Jordan Oland M.D.

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D.O.

Sarah Colwell D.O.

Ingrid Gold CNM

Meaghan Gomez FNP-C

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RNC, MSN, WHNP

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According to the Arizona State Department of Health Services, hospital in-patient and ICU beds are in the 86-88% range—high, but not changed much over the last week. However, the Maricopa County Department of Health daily COVID-19 numbers show 90 more people hospitalized June 26 by coronavirus.

This was by far the highest single-day increase in June. But, over the next two days, the total hospitalized in the county rose by only 26.

While he did not create another stayhome order, the governor beseeched Arizonans to voluntarily do so.

they’re likely to hit surge capacity.”

“Remember: You are safer at home,” Ducey said.

Those who follow Ducey’s advice and stay home are urged to stay safe, especially July 4.

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“Stay home if you can,” Ducey said, repeating the message several times at a June 25 press conference.

COVID-19 positive tests continued to accelerate, both in the state and Maricopa County. Hospitals were nearing capacity.

“If you choose to celebrate Independence Day at home with your own fireworks, please remember not all fireworks in Arizona are legal,” DeChance said.

“Cases and hospitalizations will be worse next week and the following week,” Ducey said.

“This is Arizona’s time of challenge,” he added.

“This virus is everywhere. ... Our hospitals are seeing additional stress, and

“Only cylindrical, cone fountains, ground spinners, glitter, ground sparklers and illuminating torches are permissible. However, state law does not apply to novelty items such as snappers, snap caps, glow worms, snakes, party poppers, toy smoke devices and sparklers.”

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

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Fire...continued from page 1

Avondale, with mandatory evacuations in place for all 150 residences.”

The blaze shows the frightening power of wildfires in the summer, which can chew through dry bushes and trees like a football team at a buffet.

“New fire start,” Arizona State Forestry posted at 6 p.m. June 26. “#AvondaleFire, 5 acres. Fire burning thru river bottom in salt cedar and pushing up thick smoke.”

The post said it started near El Mirage and West Indian Springs roads, just west of the raceway.

An hour later came another post: “Due to more accurate info from fire

command, #AvondaleFire is 500 acres. A majority of acreage is due to firing (operations). Crews will work into the night to suppress fire. Fire in salt cedar (within the) riverbed and is burning very hot and producing heavy smoke.”

Four hours after the fire began, about 50 residents were ordered to evacuate.

In a Friday night email, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office said, “A ‘Go’ notification has been issued for the #Avondale Fire due to a brushfire. ... near El Mirage Road. People included in the evacuation are those in the area south of Southern Avenue, north of Indian Spring Road, west of 119th Avenue, east of El Mirage.”

The morning of Saturday, June 27,

residents of south Avondale and southeast Goodyear woke up to heavy smoke. At that time, Arizona State Forestry said the 980-acre fire was only 5% contained.

Later Saturday, a forestry department post said crews and a bulldozer established a control line on the fire’s west flank.

“Firefighters trying to keep fire to the north and push it around the homes. Helicopter assisting,” the post said. Good news came late Saturday night. “AZ State Forestry crews are making progress on the #AvondaleFire. It is now 40% contained. ... Crews will work overnight to monitor and secure control line.”

After helicopter drops and hard work on the ground, local and state fire crews gained control over the Avondale Fire, which burned 1,000 acres near Phoenix International Raceway.

West Valley View photo by Pablo Robles

Photo courtesy Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management

West Valley Mavericks Foundation announces new leadership team

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

The West Valley Mavericks Foundation has a new leadership team.

The new president of the West Valley Mavericks Foundation is Justin James, a Litchfield Park resident.

James is a graduate of the Naval Academy and was deployed three times in support of Operations Iraq and Enduring Freedom. He is director of sales for the western United States for Pride Transport, a refrigerated trucking company. An avid golfer, James recently served two terms as the president of the Wigwam Country Club.

served the community as a member of the West Valley Mavericks for the last five years.

The rest of the new West Valley Mavericks Foundation board includes:

• Jeff Byers of Buckeye. Byers is the vice president of commercial banking for National Bank of Arizona and will serve as the treasurer.

• Cody Conklin of Litchfield Park is the Round Up Food Truck Festival committee chair. He is the general manager of Conklin Rose Co.

• Matt Crego of Peoria is the Shindig committee chair.

Crego is chief information officer at Spear Education LLC.

rector. Frye is from Surprise and is a corporate compliance administrator for Southwest Gas Corporation.

• Eric Hamilton of Goodyear is also joining the board. He is the owner of Eric Hamilton State Farm Insurance Agency.

• Erik Hernandez, a partner in H&B Builders of Goodyear, is the sponsorship chair for a second year. He lives in Buckeye.

• Mike Johnson of Litchfield Park is serving his second year as a director on the board. He is the president of Cutting Edge Curbing, Sand and Rock.

• Erik Rasmussen of Goodyear is the Patriot All-America Golf Invitational chair and is the senior managing director at SilverRock.

• Serving the past president role is Jason Khan of Litchfield Park, a partner in Meese Khan Accounting and Consulting.

The Mavericks recently announced they have given out over $1 million in grants since being organized in 2012. Over 82 local organizations have received financial grants from the group since 2013. The West Valley Mavericks Foundations raises funds through sponsorships and by hosting several major events in the West Valley.

Signature events include the Shindig Fly Away Party at Goodyear Airport, the Roundup Food Truck and Music Festival at Goodyear Ballpark and the Maverick Golf Tournament and the Patriot All-America, both held at the Wigwam in Litchfield Park.

John Weber, 42, of Litchfield Park is the new foundation vice president. Weber is co-owner at Southwest Equipment Group of Phoenix. Weber and his family moved to Arizona from Minnesota 20 years ago and have called the West Valley home since 2005. He has

• Chad Frank is in his second year on the board. Frank is vice president of strategic and digital alliances at the Better Business Bureau and lives in Litchfield Park.

• Bryan Frye is the Maverick Golf Tournament chair and is a first-time di-

• Nathan Reilly of Surprise is new to the board as the member engagement chair. He is the director of sales of Topgolf Glendale.

• Bruce Wall of Goodyear serves his third term on the foundation board as secretary. Wall is a financial adviser with Edward Jones in Litchfield Park.

The West Valley Mavericks Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to assist children and families, help people in need, and improve the quality of life in West Valley communities.

For more information, visit westvalleymavericksfoundation.org

Justin James is the new president of the West Valley Mavericks Foundation. (Photo courtesy Mavericks)

Arizona jobless rate drops sharply, but still at twice pre-COVID levels

BY BLAKE FREAS Cronkite News

Arizona posted one of the sharpest unemployment drops in the country in May, falling from a historic high of 13.4% in April to 8.9% last month, according to the latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

But that drop still left May’s unemployment rate for the state at the highest point in almost nine years and was twice the jobless rate that Arizona posted at the beginning of year, before the COVID-19 pandemic hammered the economy.

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The biggest job gains came in hotel and food services jobs, according to data from the Economic and Business Research Center at the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management. It said jobs in those categories rose from 178,500 in April to 216,900 in May.

“Huge difference because of usual suspects reopening, which include bars, restaurants, retail and more,” said Elliott Pollack, economist and CEO of Elliott D. Pollack and Co., an economic and real estate consulting firm in Scottsdale.

University of Arizona economist George Hammond said the numbers reflect a bounce back from the stayat-home order that was lifted in Arizona in May. But while the numbers are encouraging, he said the state’s economy still has a long way to go before it gets back to pre-coronavirus vitality.

“As we look forward, it will be a process of gradual improvement,” Hammond said.

The Arizona numbers, released Friday, mirrored national jobless statistics that were released early this month. The BLS reported that the national unemployment rate fell from 14.7% in April to 13.3% in May, bucking economists’ fears of an increase and leading President Donald Trump to tout the gain of almost 3 million jobs.

Arizona did particularly well in the May numbers report. Just four states— Mississippi, Kentucky, Indiana and

Nevada—experienced sharper declines, and Nevada was coming off a bruising 30.1% rate to 25.3%. Arizona also posted the fifth-lowest jobless rate among states for the month, according to the BLS data.

Lee McPheters, an economics professor at Arizona State University’s W.P. Carey School of Business, said the shifts in employment tracked the restrictions imposed by state leaders across the country in response to COVID-19.

“At the national and state level, consumer spending drives the economy, accounting for approximately 65 – 70% of all spending,” McPheters said in an email. “Due to layoffs and increasing risk from the COVID virus, retail spending in Arizona fell by about one third between March 15 and April 15. Restaurants took the greatest hit, with revenues down about 60 percent by mid-April.”

When those businesses started coming back, it was quickly reflected in the unemployment rate, said Amy Glaser, senior vice president at Adecco, a human resources and temporary staffing firm.

“Being one of the earlier states to return to work, Arizona has experienced a drastic improvement in unemployment from April to May coupled with upticks in industries including retail, automotive, and hospitality, as people start returning to work,” Glaser said in an email Wednesday.

“Though May’s unemployment rate (8.9%) for the state is still almost double that of last year’s (4.8%), its quick rebound signals a strong optimism for a return to pre-COVID levels in the coming months,” she said.

But while the outlook is optimistic, the gains are not being enjoyed evenly, said Elise Gould, senior economist for the Economic Policy Institute, who said white workers are benefiting disproportionately.

“An increase in jobs is a positive sign but a concern that isn’t broadly shared is the Black unemployment rate showed no improvement nationally, it actually increased,” Gould said.

BY FARAH ELTOHAMY Cronkite News

President Donald Trump toured a newly ﬁnished section of border wall June 23 in Yuma, crediting it not only for a reduction in border crossings and drugs but claiming it has helped prevent “a coronavirus catastrophe” on the southern border.

Trump, welcomed by a number of Republican elected ofﬁcials, was in Arizona to mark the completion of the ﬁrst 200 miles of the border wall that was a centerpiece of his 2016 campaign. He followed the Yuma event with a campaign-like speech in Phoenix.

“During the past two months, we’ve seen the lowest number of illegal border crossings in many years,” Trump said in Yuma. “Illegal immigration is down 84% from this time last year. Illegal crossings from Central America are down 97%.”

But Democrats were quick to criticize the visits on a day when Arizona set another record for new COVID-19 cases, adding 3,591 new cases and 42 deaths in one day.

Rep. Ruben Gallego, a Democrat who represents the 7th Congressional District, including Glendale and other parts of the West Valley, said that instead of his “little pep rally,” Trump should be spending his time on the coronavirus and the health and economic problems it has caused.

“You should probably stop at the Yuma Medical Center and see how many of the ICU beds there are taken by COVID patients,” Gallego said during a conference call with state and national Democrats.

“Or you should go and talk to the unemployment ofﬁce to see how many people are unemployed because he mismanaged this whole situation to the point where the pandemic ended up affecting the economy,” he said.

But Trump, during a roundtable with state and federal ofﬁcials before the border wall visit, only mentioned COVID-19 in the context of border security and the wall, which he said stopped COVID-19 from crossing into San Diego.

State Republicans at the event were eager to credit Trump for the wall, which they said is already a success.

Rep. Debbie Lesko, a Republican who represents the 8th Congressional District, including Peoria, Litchﬁeld Park and part of Glendale and Avondale, told Trump “the difference is so clear between what the Democrats want for the future of our nation and what you are doing to make us safe and make our country safe.”

Even as he praised the achievements, Ducey said, “I know there’s more to do, because the border’s longer than 220 miles.”

Trump, who has vowed to have 450 miles of border wall completed by the end of this year, promised Tuesday that the wall “is going to be complete very soon.”

Former Vice President Joe Biden, the likely Democratic nominee to challenge Trump this fall, cited that as evidence that Trump “remains focused on his expensive, ineffective and wasteful ‘wall’ on our Southern Border.” He called the Arizona visit a “distraction from Donald Trump’s failed response to combat the spread of COVID-19.”

Rep. Debbie Lesko, a Republican who represents much of the West Valley, praised work on the border wall in Yuma before attending a President Trump rally in Phoenix. (Photo courtesy Lesko)

Multiple investigations in Goodyear Police Department

BY TOM SCANLON West Valley View Staff

Last month, the Goodyear City Council approved the city’s 2020-21 budget, which is dominated by a $28 million police budget—a slight increase from the 2019-20 police budget of $27.4 million.

During the budget process, no mention of the department’s multiple investigations—from an office worker up to the chief—were made by Mayor Georgia Lord or any of the city council members who unanimously approved the budget.

City Manager Julie Arendall also was silent on police department misdeeds as she urged approval of the budget.

In October, the city of Goodyear launched four investigations regarding Goodyear Police Department employees. An independent investigator found three of the employees were dishonest. Jerry Geier, the chief of police, was fired in January and lost his appeal. Kyle Cluff, a veteran officer, resigned before his investigation became public.

The investigation regarding Deputy Chief Justin Hughes has been completed but has not been released. He continues to use personal leave, according to Tammy Vo, a city spokeswoman.

Even though two of the police department’s 2019 leaders were under intense scrutiny, Arendall said she has not requested an independent investigation of the Goodyear Police Department.

“Based on the results of the investigation, which began last October, the city determined that the issues within the Goodyear Police Department were isolated to a few individuals and not representative of the overall culture or practices of the department,” she said in an

email responding to questions from the West Valley View.

However, investigations into police officers continue.

Police Chief Santiago Rodriguez (who became acting chief when Geier and Hughes were suspended, then was promoted when Geier was fired) served Michael Irvine, another veteran Goodyear officer, a notice of investigation and placed Irvine on administrative leave Jan. 27.

Irvine resigned “effective immediately” in a two-sentence email he sent April 30. He did not give a reason for his resignation but said, “Thank you for my time with the department.”

Two dozen police investigations

In October, Marcus Patterson, president of the Goodyear Police Officers Association, submitted a complaint with multiple allegations against Geier. Patterson claimed Geier favored female employees, including Alison Braughton, a former officer who resigned after multiple investigations. (Geier unsuccessfully argued Patterson and Hughes conspired to get him fired, with the goal of Hughes replacing him as chief.)

Though many of the allegations from the union were found to be unsubstantiated, Donald Conrad, an independent investigator, found Geier to be untruthful on several issues. Conrad said Geier lied about how he handled an alleged hitand-run by Braughton.

On Oct. 23, Sgt. Jason Bayer of the Goodyear Police Professional Standards Unit provided Conrad “a list of current and former Goodyear Police Department employees who were investigated and received formal discipline from the

Goodyear Police Department.”

Eighteen employees—12 still with the department, six who had retired or resigned—were on the list.

Goodyear Police officers were disciplined for improperly investigating a possible rape, confronting a school principal about a private matter while in uniform, failing to file reports in a timely fashion (in one case leading to the release of a suspect), and driving dangerously.

As Bayer’s 60-page document included only completed investigations, it did not include complaints and investigations on Irvine, Geier, Hughes, Cluff and Susan Petty (a former administrative manager who was found guilty of being untruthful and was demoted in January).

Adding those five, at least 23 current and former Goodyear employees have been investigated, with 21 found to have violated

department policies with discipline ranging from letters of warning to termination. Many of the investigations included multiple findings of policy violations.

According to its most-recent published annual report, the Goodyear Police Department has 110 officers.

The report lists the department’s core values, including “Integrity: be consistent, trustworthy and transparent.”

The West Valley View emailed Lord and the six Goodyear City Council elected representatives, asking about their confidence in the department, in light of multiple investigations and disciplinary actions up to the chief being fired.

None responded as of press time.

Professional Standards Unit

Asked about the portion of the Good-

Left, Jerry Geier, Goodyear Police chief since 2012, was fired in January. Deputy Police Chief Justin Hughes has not been to work since he was suspended in October. Goodyear City Council approved a $28 million budget for the Goodyear Police Department in the fiscal year that begins July 1. (Photos courtesy city of Goodyear)

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Litchfield Park resident sentenced for child exploitation

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Maricopa County Superior Court

Judge Dean Fink sentenced a Litchfield Park resident to serve six years as part of a plea agreement.

Matthew Sam Valdez, 48, was indicted on 10 counts of child sexual exploitation in January 2019.

On May 14, he entered a “no contest” plea to two sexual exploitation of a minor charges.

Valdez was arrested Dec. 10, 2018, after agents located images depicting

child sexual abuse in his possession.

Valdez, who was on pretrial release for a separate alleged aggravated DUI case, is being held without bond in the Maricopa County Jail.

The case was investigated by the Phoenix Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Valdez was sentenced in May to serve six years in prison for the DUI charges. Fink’s June 17 sentence on the child sexual exploitation charges stipulated Valdez should serve the DUI imprisonment first.

gov) as of June 29.

year Police Department budget set aside for complaints, Arendall responded, “The Goodyear Police Department has a fully funded Professional Standards Division which oversees training, hiring and recruitment and the Professional Standard Unit. That unit also handles, in part, internal investigations, audits and inspections. The unit also manages training and supplies for the entire department and pays for hiring and recruitment of any new employees.

“The FY 20-21 budget for this entire division is $106,900 not including staff salaries.”

The $106,900 is less than 1% of the Goodyear Police Department’s $28 million budget.

The 2018 Goodyear Police Department Annual Report, authored by Geier, was on the city’s website (goodyearaz.

The 2018 report said the Bayer-led Professional Standards Unit “investigated 173 complaints against employees in 2018. Only 13 incidents resulted in a full administrative investigation, compared to 14 in the prior year.”

More recent data has not been published.

“The 2019 Police Department Annual Report is currently in production,” Vo said.

According to the 2018 report, the Goodyear Police Department investigated four homicides, 33 rapes, 33 robberies, 133 aggravated assaults and 98 vehicle thefts in 2018.

The department responded to more than 50,000 calls for service in 2018, according to the report.

Ongoing investigations

Though he has not been to work since he was suspended with pay in October, Justin Hughes remains deputy chief of the Goodyear Police Department.

The agenda for the 8 a.m. Thursday, July 2, Police Public Safety Personnel Retirement Board meeting includes “review, consider and possible action on the application and medical records for accidental disability—Justin Hughes.”

Hughes applied for disability retirement April 1. The personnel board has discussed his case in executive session (not open to the public) several times since.

The West Valley View requested complaints made against Hughes before or after his October investigation. The city of Goodyear has not provided them as of publication time.

vestigation.

“As it relates to the ‘complaint’ for Michael Irvine, I’ve been informed that there is administrative investigation still ongoing, and has not yet been completed. Once it is complete, we will release those documents to you,” said Stephanie King, Goodyear’s Legal Services coordinator.

A Millennium High graduate, Irvine was hired by the Goodyear Police Department in 2011. He was promoted to detective in 2018.

A glowing annual review in 2014 praised him for saving a woman’s life.

“Officer Irvine, you are always on top of what your squad is doing and have (been) excellent with your required and assigned duties. Your work ethic is second to none,” the review stated. “Over the past year you have received several compliments from your administration and external customers regarding your professionalism and work ethic. In July you (received) a merit award regarding your efforts to save a woman’s life who had stopped breathing. Your valiant efforts by doing CPR until (paramedics) arrived several minutes later. ...

“If it was not for your efforts the female would have passed away.”

Job opening

Last week, the city of Goodyear posted a job opening for a deputy chief of police, with an annual pay range of $124,492 to $159,346.

According to the ad, “Honor, integrity and transparency are fundamental to building a model agency in the law enforcement community. ... The men and women of the Goodyear Police Department are proud that 9 in 10 residents say they feel safe in their neighborhood.” GPD...continued from page 8

The West Valley View also requested any complaints related to the Irvine in-

Matthew Sam Valdez, 48, was sentenced to serve six years in prison for child sexual exploitation.

(West Valley View file photo)

Thunderbirds charities supports Benevilla Home Services Program

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Thunderbirds Charities gave a $60,000 grant for Benevilla’s Home Services program, which has been especially busy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In the world of COVID-19, the Benevilla Home Services program has become a lifeline for many in our community who wish to remain safe at home,” said Joanne Thomson, Benevilla president and CEO. “With the support of Thunderbird Charities, we are able to support our neighbors who may otherwise be alone, have nowhere else to turn and are without these everyday resources.”

Benevilla provides services to older adults challenged with the daily routine of independent living and staying safe with extra precautions during COVID-19.

During the COVID-19 crisis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines advise older adults to stay home, as they are at high risk of serious complications/death from the virus.

Gov. Doug Ducey reinforced the message last week, urging all residents to stay home when possible.

According to the Census 2018 pop-

ulation estimates, there are 254,000 West Valley residents that are seniors or adults with disabilities, and many of them do not have a support network enabling them to stay home.

“Benevilla has received a surge of requests from older adults in the West Valley in need of assistance with grocery shopping or transportation,” Thomson said. “Concurrently, Benevilla experienced a drop in volunteers for the program, as many of them are retirees needing to take similar precautions for their health,” said the release.

The Benevilla Home Services program is free, thanks to Benevilla volunteers who provide grocery shopping assistance, assisted transportation to medical appointments, and more.

“Benevilla is providing vital services to our high-risk older adults to help them stay independent and at home, where it is safe,” said Tim Woods, president of Thunderbirds Charities. “We are happy to support their efforts in our community.”

Those interested in volunteering with Benevillla can call 623-584-4999 or visit benevilla.org.

For more information on the Thunderbirds Charities, visit thunderbirdscharities.org.

BUCKEYE ELKS DONATE MASKS

The Buckeye Elks Lodge No. 2686 donated 200 masks that have pouches for filter inserts for extra protection to the Buckeye Fire and Police first responders. The Buckeye Elks also donated masks for vulnerable populations through the Buckeye Public Library and the Buckeye Community Center. Pictured from left: Bob Costello; Eric Cooke; Leatta McLaughlin; Jana White; Billy Brackett; Buckeye Police Chief Larry Hall; and Phil Yabez, Buckeye Senior Center director.

Governor to provide quarter billion in funding for schools

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

Arizona schools will divide up $270 million in federal cash to help them get started when classes resume.

The plan by Gov. Doug Ducey includes $200 million from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act to protect schools against budget shortfalls due to anticipated declining enrollment. In essence, it guarantees

that schools will have at least 98% of the state aid they were getting this past school year.

That is crucial, as state aid is based on the number of students in attendance. And a survey done last month by the political consulting firm of HighGround found 20% of adults with children in school said they would not send them back next year given fears of COVID-19.

And if 20% of a district’s students choose not to start when the doors open, that would normally translate to a 20% drop in aid. And with basic aid at $5,500 per student, that would have taken a real bite out of the money schools get.

The plan also contemplates that schools will be providing more instruction online than in traditional years. Part of that $200 million is earmarked for funding for remote learning.

Potentially more significant, the state will provide full funding even for students who are not sitting in a classroom all day, five days a week.

Chuck Essigs, lobbyist for the Arizona Association of School Business Officials, said this is particularly crucial for districts that want to have more flexible schedules to reduce the number of students in a classroom at any one time.

•

For example, he said Eloy schools are looking at a plan where half the students attend in the morning and then are sent home with assignments for the afternoon. The other half, having homework in the morning, go to class for the rest of the day.

Without this flexibility, Essigs said, districts would get funded only on a half-time basis for each student.

There is a catch, though: In order to be eligible, schools actually must be open to all students five days a week.

That does not preclude a district from deciding that they want their students going on alternate days to limit the number of youngsters in any classroom. But it does mean that if a parent has nowhere else to send a child, the school must agree to take him or her every day—not just the days the student otherwise would attend—even if it means that child remains in the library.

“This plan provides schools with the flexibility to ensure Arizona students continue to receive a quality education, whether through distance learning or in the classroom,’’ the governor said in a prepared statement. He said it “provides parents with options that work best for their families.’’

Chris Kotterman, lobbyist for the Arizona School Boards Association, said guaranteed funding and flexibility is the thing that is the most crucial for schools. The only question, he said, is whether there’s really enough money in the plan.

“I hope that that $200 million holds up,’’ he said.

On top of that $200 million, the plan allocates another $69 million that Ducey received from the CARES program. The largest share of that, $40 million, is earmarked for bridging the “digital divide.’’

The report says the closure of schools earlier this year brought into focus the fact that many students lack access to the internet at home.

Much of that cash will go to expanding access to broadband in rural Arizona, with a new connection to Flagstaff by the end of next year and plans for more conduit and fiber along Interstate 19 from Tucson to Nogales.

What’s not in there, however, is any cash to purchase computers or highspeed modems for individual students. But aides to the governor said schools

may have access to other funds, including $27 million that state schools superintendent Kathy Hoffman has in discretionary dollars.

Another $20 million is set aside to help kids catch up on what many of them missed after in-person instruction disappeared when the governor and Hoffman shuttered schools in the middle of March.

These funds, however, would be given out in grants, with eligibility based on various indicators of academic need and accessibility to resources. Traditional school districts and charter operations would apply for one-time funding.

And the governor also is putting $6 million into the Arizona Teachers Academy he got lawmakers to create several years ago in a bid to convince more college students to go into the classroom by paying for their college tuition.

What makes that necessary is that the COVID-19 outbreak has only exacerbated the number of older teachers leaving the profession, exacerbating what the governor’s office is calling the “Gray Wave’’ or “Silver Tsunami.’’ Those additional dollars, on top of $15 million already in the state budget, should provide enough to pay the tuition of another approximately 1,200 college students.

One thing not in the plan is what are

expected to be higher transportation costs.

Essigs said schools won’t be able to fill buses with students, as had been done before, and yet still maintain the required social distancing. That, he said, will result in more trips, meaning more gasoline and, eventually, more wear and tear on buses.

Aides to Ducey said schools have direct access to other dollars, including funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, that could be directed to cover some of those costs.

Overall, Essigs said, he sees the plan as a positive development.

“At least it’s better than what it was before,’’ he said

Other elements include:

• $1 million for “school innovation microgrants’’ for innovative programs.

• $1 million for new vehicles for the Arizona School for the Deaf and the Blind.

• $700,00 to expand the Beat the Odds program to help train school leaders, particularly in rural and underperforming schools.

• $500,000 for the Teach for America program to provide tutoring to children defined as the most in need.

And school districts will be exempt from normal procurement rules— meaning going out and soliciting bids—for cleaning supplies and any other personal protective equipment needed.

Gov. Doug Ducey is providing $270 million in funding for schools to resume classes in the fall. (West Valley View file photo)

Christine M. Faith, Jason S. Treguboff, Edwin R. Ashton, David E. Ledyard, Paul J. Faith, Michael P. Faith, Barry M. Aylstock, Thomas R. Atkins

Tolleson mayor works on budget, mask order

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW

On June 23, Mayor Anna Tovar and the Tolleson City Council unanimously approved adopting the 2020-21 budget that begins July 1.

The $89 million budget is a 15% increase over the 2019-20 budget of $77 million.

At $36 million, the general fund is the largest part of the city’s budget. Another $16 million if for the Capital Projects Fund.

The city anticipates $22 million in sales tax in the coming year, a 10% increase over 2019-20’s $20 million in sales tax revenue.

As is the case with most cities, the biggest expense in Tolleson is public safety. The city is budgeting about $5.6 million for its police department and $4.7 million for its fire department.

Tolleson has 217 full-time employees. Tovar was asked about the 15% budget increase.

“The upcoming fiscal year 20202021 budget includes the cost of a

brand-new City Hall complex that includes a contemporary library, senior center and council chambers to replace the existing complex, which was opened in 1967,” she said.

“In addition, if the voters approve the new Aquatics Center and Park Improvements bond in November, there is a $5 million dollar authority in the budget to begin construction.”

Tovar added that the Water Fund has additional budget authority of approximately $2 million dollars for a land purchase.

And, she said, “The city of Tolleson is proud to continue to support the Tolleson Elementary School District preschool program, for we believe that early childhood education is the cornerstone of long-term academic success, which begets a qualified workforce.”

When Gov. Doug Ducey gave cities the power to create and enforce mask policies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tovar rushed into action—

Tolleson was one of the first cities in the Valley with a proclamation requiring masks in public.

“We are experiencing universal support for the mask proclamation,” she said.

The ZIP code 85383 shows one of the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the Valley, with 912 positive cases as of June 26.

“The Tolleson ZIP code of 85353 does not include the city of Tolleson alone. It is comprised of the cities of Phoenix, Avondale and Maricopa County, so to report that all of those cases are in Tolleson proper is not accurate,” Tovar said.

“COVID-19 does not observe municipal borders or ZIP codes.”

Indeed, Tolleson’s neighboring ZIP codes in Maryvale and West Phoenix showed over 1,000 cases. Avondale to the west of Tolleson was significantly lower but still over 600 positive cases.

“Cities are left to their own devices to combat spread, which is why I consult with my fellow mayors constantly to identify best practices and ensure a uniform response to the fullest extent possible,” Tovar said.

the Arizona Department of Health Services and Gov. Ducey to coordinate future free testing blitz locations in West Valley communities,” Tovar said.

“Testing events where hundreds waited up to 13 hours to get tested in Maryvale should never have happened. Our West Valley residents are worthy of better access to free testing.”

At a testing site in Maryvale, people waited for hours June 21 for COVID-19 tests. Tovar pushed to get testing available for employees of the JBS meat plant in Tolleson.

More tests are needed, she insists.

“Mass testing sites are lacking in Southwest Valley suburbs. I implore

She said she and other leaders helped bring five COVID-19 test events to Tolleson, “with over 1,000 tests administered in our city. We are working to secure future dates for more testing because our community deserves access to free and convenient testing.”

Tolleson Mayor Anna Tovar, after helping pass the city’s budget, went back to advocating for more COVID-19 tests for Tolleson and its neighboring cities. (West Valley View file photo)

OUR READERS’ VIEWPOINTS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Defund NASCAR

Editor:

“Defund NASCAR” is a slogan to draw attention to an apparent loss of freedom of speech in America.

Symbols do not mean you are in favor of any previous negative messages related to a particular cause; it simply means we are trying to say: Free speech is free speech!

We don’t want NASCAR to go out of business and we don’t want teens wearing the word expletives on shirts, but as a proud veteran of the Vietnam era, I, as organizer, would die for our rights to speak freely; that includes freedom of expression by way of symbols such as bumper stickers, T-shirts, flags, statues and actual public speeches.

Cohen v. California was about someone who wore a jacket into the Los Angeles courthouse with the phrase “(expletive) the draft” emblazoned on it. He was prosecuted but the U.S. Supreme Court overturned it.

We will plan a peaceful protest at the next NASCAR race in Avondale, while raining funds to go to other NASCAR tracks for peaceful protests. But we will also raise awareness about protecting American symbols like the U.S. flag and patriotic statues, which are being desecrated.

Given the report from insider.com, one would think there is sentiment to send a message to many states’ residents.

William E (Bill) Williams Prescott

Your future 911 calls explained

Editor:

Once the defunding of police departments takes place, here are just a few samples of what to expect.

Mrs. Smith dials 911 to report her garage was broken into and her husband scared off the crook. The 911 operator says, “I’m sorry, Mrs. Smith, but we are very short on police cars right now, because we lost 35

of them in the riots and it takes time for the city to approve funds. Unfortunately, all of our funds have been defunded by protesters who want our city to be like the Wild West. My suggestion is to rush to Walmart and buy a gun, or we can send one of our officers over to check things out on a bicycle, but it may take him a while to pedal 15 miles to your house to take a report.”

Mr. Simpleton dials 911 to report somebody just got bit by the neighbor’s pit bull, two other neighbors have had enough of this pit bull running loose biting people, they are taking up arms to settle things themselves and it’s getting ugly. The 911 operator explains things are not so simple right now because people demanded the police department be defunded.

“We just don’t have money for gas for our police cruisers since the riots. My suggestion to you is to get to Walmart and buy a gun and shoot the pit bull that is biting, because we are not financially able to get an officer on scene. If you don’t have money for a gun, call animal control and they maybe can help you.”

Innocent bystander calls 911 to report a shooting at the intersection of McDowell and 75th Avenue over road rage that started on the I-10. The 911 operator says, “I’d like to send officers, but we had so many walk off the job during the last riots that we are very short handed, and several officers are out on sick leave with COVID-19. But wait a minute, it gets worse: Our police department was defunded by protesters, we have not had money to fuel all of our police cars for three weeks and it looks like we won’t have an officer available until October.”

This all boils down to two things: Do we listen to protesters or to common sense? Do you want civility as life has been, or do you prefer anarchy led by uneducated fools? Yes, Arizona is part of the Wild West history of this once-proud country. Do we go back to that era, or do we support our protectors so we can keep our guns at home? The people of the Old West paid a sheriff to protect their towns. Towns grew into big cit-

ies, and so did the protection that we all pay for. There is no new sheriff in town, only lawless fools who want to commit anarchy and destruction. Support law enforcement.

James Logan Buckeye

McSally doesn’t have it

Editor:

Martha McSally’s senatorial campaign must be well financed, judging by the frequency of her ads attacking Mark Kelly or boosting her own image. Being curious, I researched some of her reported claims. McSally’s website says she passed seven bills into law, a high number for any senator. However, congress.gov reports only one bill became law and parts of six others, some identical to House bills, were folded into other legislation. She claims to support protection for preexisting health conditions but has voted five times to strip them away. She speaks about bringing jobs back to the U.S. but also supports Republican tax measures that give incentives to employers to offshore jobs. She says she “will hold China accountable” for their misleading COVID reports but doesn’t say how. Kelly supports economic and diplomatic sanctions against China. Kelly also criticized President Trump for praising Xi and China from January to early March, but McSally has remained silent on Trump’s comments.

The attack ads against Kelly by McSally are more than a stretch. For example, “Kelly has ties to China” is misleading. Reports say Kelly’s company, World View, has many investors, including Tencent, a company from China that owns 5%. World View was vetted by our Department of Defense, which has no security concerns and contracts with World View. NASA also contracts with them. Another report says Kelly received $4,000 from World View last year, not the ominous “undisclosed amount” from an “arm of the Communist Party” as her ad says. Yes, Kelly had investments in mutual funds that included some Chinese companies, but so did McSally. Note: Both candidates have reportedly since sold those investments.

Kelly was a spokesman for Shaklee nutritional products a few years ago. On one occasion he spoke at a company function in China, entering the arena on a motorcycle with small American and Chinese flags on it. That was a promotional stunt, not a political statement. Her ads cite a local newspaper saying “Kelly got rich” and “lined his pockets” from China and that World View posed “a global security threat,” but those were quotes from McSally’s staff, not from the reporter’s research. Yes, most political campaigns stretch the truth, but McSally is using dishonest claims, as she did against Sinema two years ago. Politifact scores her statements as 16% false and 66% mostly false, while Kelly scores 66% true and 34% half-true. Integrity is an essential quality for our senators.

Judging by their TV ads, Mark Kelly has it; Martha McSally does not.

John Flynn Goodyear

How to get a letter published

250 N. Litchfield Road, Ste. 130, Goodyear, AZ 85340

E-mail: editor@westvalleyview.com

Got Medicare? Get a no-cost test for COVID-19

BY SEEMA VERMA Guest Writer

If you have Medicare and want to be tested for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Trump administration has good news.

Medicare covers tests with no out-of-pocket costs. You can get tested in your home, doctor’s office, a local pharmacy or hospital, a nursing home or a drive-thru site. Medicare does not require a doctor’s order for you to get tested.

Testing is particularly important for older people and nursing home residents, who are often among the most vulnerable to COVID-19. Widespread access to testing is a critical precursor to a safe, gradual reopening of America.

Individuals should contact their state Medicaid agency to apply for this coverage.

Both Medicare and Medicaid cover serology or antibody tests for COVID-19. These tests can help identify who has been exposed to the virus.

Medicare generally covers the entire cost of COVID-19 testing for beneficiaries with Original Medicare. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage health plan, your plan generally can’t charge you cost sharing (including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance) for COVID-19 tests and the administration of such tests.

When a vaccine for COVID-19 is developed, Medicare will cover that, too.

For Medicare beneficiaries who are homebound and can’t travel, Medicare will pay for a trained laboratory technician to come to your home or residential nursing home to collect a test sample. (This doesn’t apply to people in a skilled nursing facility on a shortterm stay under Medicare Part A, as the costs for this test, including sample collection, are already covered as part of the stay.)

If you receive Medicare home health services, your home health nurse can collect a sample during a visit. Nurses working for rural health clinics and federally qualified health clinics also can collect samples in beneficiaries’ homes under certain conditions.

Or you can go to a “parking lot” test site set up by a pharmacy, hospital or other entity in your community.

We’re doing similar things in the Medicaid program, giving states flexibility to cover parking lot tests as well as tests in beneficiaries’ homes and other community settings.

We also implemented the Families First Medicaid eligibility option, which allows states to cover tests for uninsured people with no cost sharing.

In addition, Medicare Advantage plans may not impose prior authorization or other utilization management requirements on the COVID-19 test or specified COVID-19 testing-related services for the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency.

We have also required that private health issuers and employer group health plans cover COVID-19 testing and certain related items and services, with no cost sharing during the pandemic. This includes items and services that result in an order for, or administration of, a COVID-19 diagnostic test in a variety of medical settings, including urgent care visits, emergency room visits, and in-person or telehealth visits to the doctor’s office.

From day one, Medicare has worked to ensure that cost is no barrier to being tested for COVID-19 and to make testing as widely and easily available as possible. As a result, we’ve seen a surge in testing among Medicare beneficiaries. Robust and widespread testing is of paramount importance as we begin easing back into normal life.

You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

SEEMA VERMA

Seema Verma is an administrator of the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Business Briefcase

BY TOM SCANLON

Readers want to know: What’s going over here—and there?

Vickie Chelini has two questions.

Vickie 1: “Verrado, on the corner next to the freeway off ramp. Large parcel being graded. Could you let us know what is going in there?”

Edkey Inc., also known as Sequoia Charter Schools, paid $2.9 million for 9 acres in Buckeye Parkway Center, where it plans to open “a high-performing elementary school” this fall. Looks like it will be called Sequoia Pathfinder at Verrado (according to the Sequoia website).

Things are racing ahead there, as a recent help wanted ad shows:

“In preparation for a new school opening in 2020-2021, EdKey, Inc. is now hiring for teachers (various subjects) Sequoia Pathfinder Academy at Verrado Way and I-10 Buckeye. Required qualifications: State of Arizona teaching certificate or bachelor’s degree from accredited university. Highly qualified in the field of study applying. Fingerprint clearance card required.” For more information, visit sequoiaschools.org.

Vickie 2: “The prime location corner of Yuma and Watson. Large building completed.”

That would be what’s advertised as

“new Buckeye development! Located less than 1 mile south of Interstate 10 full interchange. Tremendous housing growth in the immediate area.

“Drive-thru pad available.”

Tenants to be announced.

Based on her recent letter to the editor, we know Vickie is rooting for a restaurant there.

From Ed Jones: “What is being built in the southeast corner of Estrella Parkway and Roosevelt Street?”

That area looks like a hotbed. The Philly Pretzel Factory at 650 North Estrella Parkway, Suite A5, had a grand reopening in May for that perfect marriage of carbs and salt: “Home of the Real Soft Pretzel.”

Then there is Henry’s Hawaiian Grill at 560 North Estrella Parkway, Suite B13—which opened in mid-March just days before the COVID-19 shutdown!

Perhaps Mr. Jones is looking at the future site of (drum roll) ... Aldi Estrella Commons, 845 N. Estrella Parkway. The 20,000-square-foot building on 3-plus acres is to open at the end of this year

Aldi is a discount grocery store that started in Germany. If you’re not familiar, picture the child of a romance between the Dollar Store and Trader Joe’s.

• Welcome to the West Valley, Pride-

Staff employment and staffing agency.

Rhae and Debbie Buckley, owners of the local PrideStaff, bring three decades of personnel experience with all sizes of businesses across multiple industries.

“I’ve dedicated my career to optimizing organizational performance by improving workforce engagement and talent identification,” Rhae said. “After graduating from Oral Roberts University, I held progressive roles leading human resources, recruiting and staffing operations around the world. With each new opportunity, I built my expertise in driving operational excellence and meeting strategic business initiatives for both for-profit and nonprofit Organizations.”

If you’re looking for work, this is the place: PrideStaff serves a wide range of industries and fills roles such as light industrial, logistics, administrative support, manufacturing, customer service, call center, front office, general office clerical, medical claims, medical billing, medical office, inside sales, telemarketing, accounting and finance.

Current job openings range from warehouse to temperature checker (sign of the times) to administrative assistant to welder.

And, for businesses, Rhae said PrideStaff offers “turnkey service, as we do the recruiting, onboarding, training, job posting, reference checking, pre-screen interviewing and behavioral interviewing,” he said.

For more information, visit pridestaff. com/phoenixmetrogoodyear or call 623215-2631. PrideStaff is at 432 N. Litchfield Road, Suite 316, Goodyear.

West Valley View Managing Editor

Offering work for job seekers

Black Bottom Lighters start ‘Runnin’’

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI West Valley View Executive Editor

Black Bottom Lighters singer Ryan Stilwell just wants to provide for his family. He knows he’s not different from anyone else, but he tells the story differently than others.

The band’s new song “Runnin’” is a desert-reggae ode to that.

“It’s about basically a time in my life when my wife and I had a new baby and we were transitioning in our lives,” he said. “It’s not just me, but the whole band and our fans. We’re all growing together.

“It’s a very relatable topic of just doing what we have to do to get food on the table and provide for the family. That’s what it embodies.”

Like most Black Bottom Lighters songs, “Runnin’” isn’t a downer.

“We made the music more upbeat and playful so it’s not taken so seriously,” he said with a laugh. “That’s what we try to live by. We can’t take everything so seriously.”

The song was to be featured in the band’s set when it played Wasted Grain in Scottsdale on July 3. However, that show was postponed until Friday, Aug. 14, due to the bar’s month-long closure.

Black Bottom Lighters—which features Stilwell of Waddell; keyboardist Kelyn Weaver Bo of Phoenix; bassist Jose Aquino of Peoria; rhythm guitarist Mike Proctor; lead guitarist Phil Keiser of Cave Creek and drummer Ryan McPhatter of Cottonwood—stayed busy during the pandemic and quarantine. They devoted themselves to writing and getting back to their roots.

“We couldn’t travel as much with the pandemic, so why not?” Stilwell said. “Our focus is to continue being creative. We have quite a few songs in our back pocket that we’re sitting on. We have a little ways left to go on them, but one or two of them are fully written. We’re going to mix and master

them and start packaging it as an EP and get the concept down.”

For the past few years, the band has jumped around from studio to studio, just trying to spread its musical wings and bring diversity to Black Bottom Lighters. One notable collaborator was Mike Bolenbach at Full Well Recording Studio in Phoenix.

“The guys are super, super talented already,” Bolenbach said. “They bring well-written songs to the studio and they’re all excellent musicians. I just try to capture the essence of the band.

“The band’s vibe is great, too. We just try to capture what they are as honestly as we can.”

The recording process for “Runnin’” was different from other projects in that Black Bottom Lighters experimented with the musicians being in separate rooms but recording live.

“The live sound is, to be honest, why a lot of people like to come see our shows,” Stilwell said. “We have high energy and live vibes. We got that idea from working with Pepper in Redondo Beach. We were in the same room there, but there was a lot of bleeding through the mic. If we’re in separate

rooms and playing at the same time, it’s a lot cleaner.”

Black Bottom Lighters were in Redondo Beach to record the song “The Get Back” at Pepper’s Kona Town Recording.

Stilwell has fantasized about a music career since he was young, attending his first concert (Brooks and Dunn and Shania Twain) with his family as a child in Litchfield Park.

“It was awesome,” he said, smiling. “The first concert that was my choice was Slightly Stoopid and G. Love. That changed my whole outlook on live music. They’re a jam band, and a lot of the songs you hear on the album a completely different live. Every single night, they do something different.

“I always thought sounding like the album was the best way to sound. In our industry, it’s better to do what you feel. It makes the live aspect way more real.”

A pitcher for Millennium High School’s baseball team, Stilwell didn’t take music seriously until he gave up the sport at Eastern Arizona University.

“After baseball had come and gone, I was working a 9-to-5 and I was laid

off,” he said. “I figured I would start a band. It ended up working.”

Founded in 2010, Black Bottom Lighters gained a reputation around town for its house parties. Its fulllength debut, “2 or 2,000,” is telling.

“Our first album was ‘2 or 2,000,’” Stilwell said. “It doesn’t matter how many people are there or what the occasion is, we’re going on that stage and put it all out there no matter who’s out there, no matter where we are.”

In 2016, the band released the EP “Pipe Dream,” which features the track “Peace, Love & Smoke Rings” with Layzie Bone from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Black Bottom Lighters toured the United States in support of the single and have continued to do so.

“We’re grown with our fanbase, and it’s time to transition into the next chapter of our lives,” Stilwell said. “I’d like to just remain as close as possible with the guys and really just continue to push our creativity and see where the music takes us.”

Black Bottom Lighters facebook.com/blackbottomlighters1

Black Bottom Lighters are, from left, bassist Jose Aquino of Peoria; rhythm guitarist Mike Proctor of Cave Creek; keyboardist Kelyn Weaver Bo of Phoenix; singer Ryan Stilwell of Waddell; drummer Ryan McPhatter of Cottonwood; and guitarist Phil Keiser of Cave Creek. (Photo courtesy Black Bottom Lighters)

Stretch, stretch and stretch some more

BY DR. NICK HUNTER Guest Writer

I often hear from people that they don’t need to stretch because they will never be ﬂexible or because it’s boring and they would rather go biking, hiking, etc. And I get it! It’s not the most glamorous type of exercise. But as we age and our muscles become less ﬂexible and our joints become more stiff, we need to stretch to maintain our mobility and independence and to prevent injury.

The main benefit of stretching regularly is to develop the ﬂexibility of certain muscles to improve or maintain your joint range of motion. More range of motion can allow you better performance with your desired activities. It can decrease your risk for injuries when performed properly after a

warm-up or exercise. It can also allow your muscles to work more effectively if they have more length and can move through a greater range of motion for more speed or power. Unfortunately, stretching does need to happen regularly in order to see and maintain the benefits, ideally at least a little bit every day of the week.

There are a lot of muscles in the body (over 600 in fact). So where do you start? If you know you have particular areas of difficulty, start there. In the lower body, your calves, hamstrings, hip ﬂexors and low back/glutes are great areas to target. In the upper body, your shoulders, neck and midback muscles, and wrists are wonderful places to focus, especially if you sit at a desk all day. Be sure not to stretch cold

muscles. If the muscle fibers aren’t prepared, you can damage them, so it is better to first do light movement to increase blood flow to the area and make your muscles more pliable. Attempt to breathe normally, and do not stretch into pain. We are not of the “no pain, no gain” mentality for this activity Remember, one stretching routine will not make you super flexible or keep you limber for weeks. It will be a slow process, but if you perform it daily, your flexibility will increase and you will notice changes. It took months to get to the degree of tightness you are experiencing, so it may take months to get out of this position. Be patient and forgiving with yourself. The hardest part of any new habit is committing to it and making it a priority. Try to find

a time in your schedule where you can commit at least 10 minutes a day to yourself to improve your ﬂexibility and maintain your independence. This is one of the best activities to make sure you age gracefully and stay as active as you can for as long as possible. If you are still concerned about what areas you need to stretch or how to incorporate this into a daily routine, talk to a physical therapist. They are able to assess your muscle strength and muscle length to help you make a more customized routine for your specific activities!

Nick Hunter is a doctor of physical therapy and owner of Preferred Physical Therapy. For more information, call 623-466-6448 or visit preferredptaz.com.

West Valley View Dining Guide

Medicines that are out of date or no longer used and are kept at home are highly susceptible to misuse, and abuse.

Keeping medications after they are no longer needed creates a health risk for children and others.

One in six older adults regularly uses a potentially dangerous combination of prescription drugs, and over-the -counter medications.

Keep all prescription medications safe & secure until you can properly dispose of them.

Rx Drop Boxes for outdated medicines are conveniently located throughout Maricopa County. Find your nearest location at dumpthedrugsaz.org

For more information or a Medicine Disposal Envelope, call the 24-Hour Senior HELP LINE.

Disposal of Pills and Liquid Medications

Pour liquid or expired medication into a plastic bag and mix with kitty litter or used coffee grounds. Seal the container and toss it in the trash.

Disposal of Sharps

Put used sharps in a strong, plastic container (such as a laundry detergent bottle). When the container is 3/4 of the way full, seal with duct tape, and label "DO NOT RECYCLE".

King Crossword

GO FIGURE!

by Linda Thistle

The idea of Go Figure is to arrive at the figures given at the bottom and right-hand columns of the diagram by following the arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, from left to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers below the diagram to complete its blank squares and use each of the nine numbers only once.

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

SUDOKU

Each numbered row contains two clues and two answers. The two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.

Youngker grad skates into fashion design, honors late friend

BY GRIFFIN FABITS

West Valley View Contributing Writer

Brainstorming the idea in a Youngker High School classroom, Xavier Olivo launched his own clothing line, Diceclub, as a junior in 2018.

And what started as a hobby has since blossomed into something larger for Olivo, now 18. He recently launched a website—showcasing T-shirts, hoodies, beanies and sweaters—which made nearly $700 in sales the first night.

“When I dropped the website, I expected it to sit there a little bit and maybe people buy it here and there,” he said. “I didn’t expect to make (all that money) the first few hours.”

Dicelub, Olivo said, is a nod to his group of friends, a group that has spent countless hours together at skate parks.

“We used to go skating all the time and just hangout, and throughout that, I thought it’d be cool if we had a group to our name, maybe a clothing line,” he said. Olivo, a 2019 Youngker graduate, has been enamored by clothing and fashion since boyhood—how they look, the kind of message they can portray. It’s always been his unique outlet of expressing himself.

“In the back of my mind,” he said, “I knew I wanted to do a clothing line. That’s something I’ve wanted to do for

a while now.”

As a high school junior, Olivo took a graphic design class, where he was afforded the opportunity to spend several hours a day toying around with different designs and prints.

It began as seamless fun in the back of the classroom. But months later, classmates and friends around school were interested in buying what Olivo was printing.

“I think I made around $400 then,” he said. “It was just kids from school, some family and some other people. It was really shocking. People wanted to actually buy my product.

“I was like, ‘This is kind of sick,’” he laughed.

And he’s since reeled in more than $2,000 off of it.

Olivo is busy ramping up Diceclub apparel, by popular demand from customers. The website has resonated with many—far more than he ever imagined, he admitted—which has forced him to come up with several more designs and prints.

He recently made “tribute hoodies,” in memory of Junior Najera, a high school friend who passed away in May, with all proceeds going to the Najera family. The hoodie reads, in Najera’s own handwriting, “Love you – Junior,”

a message he once scribbled to Olivo.

Olivo said Najera was pivotal in the launching of Diceclub.

The bond Olivo and his friends have shown one another is the backbone of Dicelub, the reason the clothing line has gotten to where it currently is.

And Olivo just wants to keep the momentum rolling.

“I hope I can eventually in the future open up pop-up shops. I just want to get the name more out there. I want to get more people knowing about it. I want to advertise it more, release more stuff,” he said.

“I just want to have fun with it.”

For more information, visit the Diceclub website at diceclubskateboarding. bigcartel.com or Instagram @diceclubskateboarding.

Truth in Taxation Hearing Notice of Tax Increase

In compliance with §15-905.01, Arizona Revised Statutes, Agua Fria Union High School District is notifying its property taxpayers of Agua Fria Union High School District’s intention to raise its primary property taxes over the current level to pay for increased expenditures in those areas where the Governing Board has the authority to increase property taxes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020 The Agua Fria Union High School District is proposing an increase in its primary property tax levy of $1,300,000. The amount proposed above will cause Agua Fria Union High School District’s primary property taxes on a $100,000 home to be $15.80 Without the tax increase, the total taxes that would be owed would have been $ 6.87.

These amounts proposed are above the qualifying tax levies as prescribed by state law, if applicable. The increase is also exclusive of any changes that may occur from property tax levies for voter approved bonded indebtedness or budget and tax overrides.

All interested citizens are invited to attend the public hearing on the proposed tax increase scheduled to be held July 8, 2020 – 5:30 PM at 1481 North Eliseo Felix Jr. Way, Avondale, AZ 85323

Xavier Olivo launched his own clothing line, Diceclub, as a junior in 2018. (Photo courtesy Xavier Olivo)

Agua Fria high schools may start fall online

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Agua Fria, Canyon View, Desert Edge, Millennium and Verrado high schools may start the fall semester like they left off in the spring—online.

Last week, in addition to canceling graduation, the Agua Fria Union High School District Governing Board approved “a learning model for the fall 2020 semester that will include starting the school year with enhanced remote learning and then implementing a ﬂexible combination of a hybrid learning schedule.”

The key word is “flexible,” as plans are still being determined before the start of the school year in August, said Dennis Runyan, dis-

trict superintendent.

“It will be similar to the spring but with some enhanced tools,” said Runyan, adding he hoped for “a return to campuses as soon as possible given the current increasing rate of infections in our community.”

The board’s vote is in line with Gov. Doug Ducey’s recent proclamation approving funding for schools even if they create hybrid online/in-school schedules.

“This decision would allow us to train teachers in July and help keep parents informed of our planning,” Runyan said.

“Part of the process for reopening schools is to see trend data decreasing

for the number of positive cases over a four- to ﬁve-week period. While we are not seeing this presently in Arizona, we are hopeful to continue planning in July,” Runyan said, in a June 25 letter to parents.

He said details on “what a ﬂex hybrid schedule looks like” will be coming soon.

Agua Fria freshmen are scheduled to start school Aug. 3, with other students to return to class Aug. 4.

Agua Fria Union High School District continues summer workouts

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Agua Fria Union High School District continues to allow sports work-

outs, with strict guidelines.

According to its “Summer Athletic Department Guidelines” on a recent

district newsletter, “The AFUHSD is as eager as athletes, coaches and families to begin preparing for the upcoming 2020-2021 athletic season.

“However, everyone must be aware, even with safety protocols, that the risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists. Our goal is to begin activity while following safety guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state and other medical professionals.”

hands or use hand sanitizer each time they enter and leave a practice environment.

• Coaches and athletes are required to wear a mask/face covering if they are in proximity to others.

• Athletes may take their mask/face covering off during aerobic activity and high-level movement.

Families are required to notify the district if a young athlete has tested positive for or been exposed to COVID-19.

Guidelines include:

• Coaches and athletes are required to have their temperature checked before each practice. Those who have a temperature of 100.4 or higher will be sent home. Once the coach/athlete is fever free for 72 hours and without fever-reducing medication, they may return to practice.

• Groups cannot be any larger than 10 total individuals.

• Groups may utilize larger spaces with multiple groups.

• Coaches and athletes must maintain a minimum of 6 feet of physical distance, with 8 feet preferred.

• Parents/guests are not allowed to be present as this will increase the total number allowed.

• Athletes must come to any summer activity showered and in clean/washed practice gear.

• Athletes should be showering immediately following workouts.

• Coach and athletes will wash their

• Avoid handshakes, high ﬁves, ﬁst bumps, etc.

• Athletes are required to bring their own water/towel.

• Athletes should not share water or towels.

• Contact drills and scrimmages are not permitted.

• There cannot be any shared use of balls. Refer to the NFHS guidelines for examples. Balls will be cleaned after each use. Coaches will educate athletes on single person ball use.

• Any program in violation of these guidelines will not be permitted to continue summer activities.

Agua Fria high schools may start the fall semester with a hybrid schedule. (West Valley View ﬁle photo)

William Joel Liddy

William Joel Liddy, age 78, of Avondale, Arizona passed away on June 19, 2020 in Goodyear, Arizona. He was born on July 26, 1942 to Leonard Anthony Liddy and Lucille Roberta Snyder in Pontiac, Michigan.

Condolences for the family can be left at http://www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com/ obituary/william-joel-liddy/.

James Patrick Van Jacobs

James Patrick Van Jacobs, age 82, of Goodyear, Arizona passed away on June 14, 2020 in Mesa, Arizona. He was born on July 2, 1937 to James Emmett VanJacobs and Eleanor Carlson in Chicago, Illinois. Services are private.

Condolences for the family can be left at http://www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com/obit uary/jamespatrick-vanjacobs/

Kristopher Richard Kent

Kristopher Richard Kent joined his older brother and mother in heaven on Thursday, June 18th. He was born in Phoenix, Arizona on March 1, 1983 to parents, Susan and Rod Kent. Kris graduates from Buckeye Union High School and then attended the University of Arizona. After college Kris managed several urgent care locations in the Phoenix area. In 2013, he was proud to join the Phoenix Fire Department as a paramedic/firefighter. He also taught CPR classes for a American Emergency Response training company. Kris was preceded in death by his mom, Susan and his older brother, Ryan. He is survived by dad Rod Kent (Lucy) and stepsisters Andrea Velasquez and Julie Mcguire (Chuck). He leave behind many friends and family the love him very much. He also leaves his other love, his 69 Camaro - a love of classic cars and hot rods like Pops (Rod) behind. Kris' warm heart, laughter and endless generosity will remain forever in our hearts. There will be a celebration of Kris' life held at a later date.

Condolences for the family can be left at http://www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com/obit uary/kristopher-richard-kent/

Paul Edward Gonzales

Paul Edward Gonzales, age 22, of Avondale, Arizona passed away on June 19, 2020.

He was born on May 14, 2020 to Paul Gonzales and Monica Vargas in Glendale.

Condolences for the family can be left at http://www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com/ obituary/paul-edward-gonzales/

Noriko Johnson

Mrs. Noriko Johnson, age 83, of Goodyear, Arizona passed away on June 20, 2020 in Goodyear, Arizona. She was born February 11, 1937, to Gakei Yogi and Aki Yogi in Okinawa, Japan. Services are private. Condolences for the family can be left at http://www.thompson funeralchapel.com/obituary/noriko_johnson/

VeraSandoval

VeraCarlosSandoval93ofAvondale passedJune23rd,2020.Mrs.Sandoval wasborninClarkdale,AZ.Veraliveda fullandeventfullife.

SheownedLaPalmitaTortillaShop inAvondaleforover30years.She lovedcrocheting,goingtothecasinos andbeingwithherfamily.Shewillbe misseddearlyandbymany.

VeraissurvivedbyonesisterNatliaGarcia,four grandchildrenand13Greatgrandchildren.Sheis proceededindeathbysonRudySandoval.

Amassofchristianburialwillbeheldfrom10:30AM to11:30AMon2020-06-29atSt.JohnVianneyCatholic Church,800WestLomaLindaBoulevard,Goodyear, AZ,USA.

Agravesideservicewillbeheldfrom12:00PMto1:00 PMon2020-06-29atHolyCrossCemetery,9925West ThomasRoad,Avondale,AZ.

Lowell Riefkohl

Mr. Lowell B. Riefkohl, age 84, of Goodyear, Arizona passed away on June 13, 2020 in Goodyear, Arizona. He was born on October 22, 1935 to Lewis and Bertha Riefkohl in Ysleta, Texas. A funeral service was held on Monday, June 29, 2020 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 South Litchfield Rd. in Goodyear at 9:00am.

Condolences for the family can be left at http://www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com/ obituary/lowellriefkohl/

Deadline for obituaries is Thursday at 5pm for Wednesday. All obituaries will be approved by our staff prior to being activated. Be aware there may be early deadlines around holidays. Call 623-535-8439 Mon-Fri 8:30-5 if you have questions.

Classifieds

EMPLOYMENT

Now hiring janitors for office cleaning in various valley locations.

Please apply in person at ACE Building Maintenance

7020 N 55th Ave Glendale, AZ 85301. Se solita personal para limpieza de Oficina en varias localidades del valle. Favor de aplicar en persona a ACE Building Maintenance 7020 N 55th Ave Glendale, AZ 85301.

FULL-Time production laborer position available with west side recycling company.

High school diploma required. Outside environment. Forklift/Loader operations experience a plus. Drug free environment. Must pass a Background check. Drug Screening, and an extensive physical. Excellent paid health and dental benefits.

Apply Monday-Friday at World Resources Company 8113 W Sherman St, Tolleson

EMPLOYMENT

Now hiring temp sanitizing day porters for various valley locations. The available positions are full time and part time, starting at $15.00/hr. If interested please apply in person at ACE Building Maintenance 7020 N 55th Ave Glendale, AZ 85301 (623) 937-3727

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

Hiring Caregivers, Program Leads and Managers, and HCBS Coordinator in the West Valley.

Paid training provided. Must be 21+yrs, w/ good driving record & reliable transportation.

Apply at www.aires.org or visit us at 2140 W. Green-

EMPLOYMENT

RECREATION CENTERS OF SUN CITY WEST

GREENSKEEPERS - $13.08 p/h, FT/PT with benefitsManual labor. Must be able to communicate in English, work weekends and OT. Previous golf exp. preferred.

LANDSCAPE WORKER - FT Mon-Fri $12.25/hour with benefits. Plan, care and maintain recreational grounds for the community; including trimming, weeding, raking and water plants. Experienced in use of small power tools and lawn maintenance equipment.

Apply online/view more jobs: employment.suncitywest.com or at Human Resources, 19803 N. R. H. Johnson Blvd, Sun City West, AZ 85375. The above positions include golf when availability is open. All positions must be able to communicate in English. All positions are open until filled. EOE

HANDYMAN

TINO'S HANDYMAN SERVICES, LLC

10+ Years Xxperience HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical and Carpentry. Phone - 480-845-9637

*Not a Licensed Contractor

OUTLET installation, ceiling fan installs, lighting repairs, emergency electrical repairs, panel upgrades. Updating an older home. Call 602-388-5703

JOEL Cedillo- I do construction work! Concrete, Block , Stucco, Bobcat work, Haulaway, Demolition. Call fo r free estimates, 623-707-6072.

*Not A Licensed Contractor

HANDYMAN

HANDYMAN - 37 years experience. Drywall, framing, plumbing, painting, electrical, roofing and more. Stan 602-434-6057

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

Ramirez Landscaping Maintenance, trimming, planting, tree service, lawn installation, and irrigation, clean-up. Please call Eleazar Ramirez (602)576-0220

LANDSCAPING SERVICES

Yard Work clean ups, removal, sod installation, irrigation systems, hauling, rock spreading. Not a licensed contractor. Juan 623-242-4161 or 623-242-4159

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

Credenza 6ft, for TV, pictures, etc. Mahogany solid wood, exlnt condition. $150. (623)377-8576

HOMES FOR RENT

3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car garage, near Cactus & Dysart in El Mirage, $1,195/Monthly, $1,000 deposit, 1 year lease, credit check required. Please call 623-935-9205

WANTED TO BUY

$100-$500+

Cash for Junk Cars all "as is" autos! Good condition more $$$$. Best Prices! Fast, free pickup. 623-329-2043

PUBLIC NOTICE

REQUEST FOR ARGUMENTS FOR AND AGAINST THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS BY THE DISTRICT TO BE CONSIDERED BY THE VOTERS OF BUCKEYE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 201 OF MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA, AT AN ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2020

Pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Governing Board of Buckey e Union High School District No. 201 of Maricopa County, Arizona (the “District”) on June 15, 2020 (the “Resolution”), a special election i n and for the District was ordered and called to be held on November 3, 2020 (the “Election”). Notice of the Election will be given by mailing an informational pamphlet. Such pamphlet is to include arguments for and against the authorization of the issuance of bonds payable from a secondary, ad valorem property tax by the District to be considered a t the Election. (The text of the question to be considered at the Electio n is included in the Resolution which is available by request to the undersigned at Buckeye Union High School District No. 201 of Maricop a County, Arizona, 1000 East Narramore Avenue, Buckeye, Arizon a 85326.) Any person interested in providing any such argument is hereby requested to provide the same to the County School Superintendent of Maricopa County, Arizona, at Suite 1200, 4041 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85012, before 5:00 p.m., Arizona tim e on August 7, 2020. If you have any questions about the foregoing , please contact the Superintendent of the District at (623) 386-4423

/s/ Eric Godfrey Superintendent, Buckeye Union High School District No. 201 of Maricopa County, Arizona

Published: Glendale Star/Peoria Times, June 24, July 1, 2020 / 31337

SOLICITUD DE ARGUMENTOS A FAVOR Y EN CONTRA DE LA E MISIÓN DE BONOS DEL DISTRITO A CONSIDERACIÓN DE LOS VOTANTES DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR SECUNDARIO NÚM 201 DE BUCKEYE UNION DEL CONDADO DE MARICOPA, ARIZONA, EN UNA ELECCIÓN QUE SE LLEVARÁ A CABO EL 3 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2020

Conforme a una resolución adoptada por el Consejo Directivo del Distrito Escolar Secundario Núm. 201 de Buckeye Union del Condado de M aricopa, Arizona (el “Distrito”) el 15 de junio de 2020 (l a “Resolución”), se ordenó y se convocó a una elección especial en y para el Distrito que se llevará a cabo el 3 de noviembre de 2020 (la “Elección”). Se dará aviso de la Elección enviando un folleto informativo por correo. Dicho folleto incluirá argumentos a favor y en contra de l a autorización de la emisión de bonos pagaderos de un impuest o secundario de propiedades ad valorem del Distrito a considerarse en la Elección. (El texto de la pregunta que se considerará en la Elección se incluye en la Resolución la cual está disponible mediante solicitud del firmante en el Distrito Escolar Secundario Núm. 201 de Buckeye Union del Condado de Maricopa, Arizona, 1000 East Narramore Avenue , Buckeye, Arizona 85326.) A cualquier persona interesada en presentar alguno de dichos argumentos se le solicita por la presente suministrar el mismo a County School Superintendent of Maricopa County, Arizona, Suite 1200, 4041 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85012, antes de las 5:00 p.m., hora de Arizona del 7 de agosto de 2020. Si uste d tiene cualquier pregunta sobre la presente, por favor comuníquese con el Superintendente del Distrito al (623) 386-4423.

EMPLOYMENT

/f/ Eric Godfrey Superintendente, Distrito Escolar Secundario Núm. 201 de Buckeye Union del Condado de Maricopa, Arizona

Published: Glendale Star/Peoria Times, June 24, July 1, 2020 / 31338

NOTICE OF ELECTION

Roosevelt Irrigation District (the "District") hereby notifies the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors that an election for the office of Director of Division III and one Director at Large of the District will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2020. The polls will be open at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 6:00 p.m. The polling place shall be the District office, located at 103 West Baseline Road, Buckeye, Arizona 85326.

/s/ Donovan L. Neese

Date: 6/18/2020

Published: West Valley View, July 1, Aug 5, 2020 / 31261

LIFEGUARD YOUR CHILD

The more layers of protection you have around water, the safer your child is.

Truth in Taxation Hearing Notice of Tax Increase

In compliance with §15-905.01, Arizona Revised Statutes, Cartwright School District is notifying its property taxpayers of Cartwright School District’s intention to raise its primary property taxes over the current level to pay for increased expenditures in those areas where the Governing Board has the authority to increase property taxes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020. The Cartwright School District is proposing an increase in its primary property tax levy of $1,800,000.

The amount proposed above will cause Cartwright School District’s primary property taxes on a $100,000 home to be $218.7666. Without the tax increase, the total taxes that would be owed would have been $157.5071.

All interested citizens are invited to attend the public hearing on the proposed tax increase scheduled to be held July 13, 2020 at 5:00PM at 5220 W Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85031 – Governing Board Room.

AVISO PÚBLICO DE LA CIUDAD DE TOLLESON, ARIZONA

Se le notifica que el Consejo Municipal de la Ciudad de Tolleson ordenó que una elección general se realizará para la ciudad el 3 de noviembre del 2020, para presentar a los votantes opciones de Bonos de Obligación General, una Franquicia de Southwest Gas Corporation y si extender la Opción de Regla Local - Limitación Alternativa de Gastos para los próximos cuatro años para la Ciudad a partir de 20212022. El 23 de junio de 2020, el Concejo Municipal, por un voto de 5 sí a 0 no y 1 ausente, autorizó el exceso de gasto alternativo propuesto para ser presentado a los votantes.

Usted puede presentar un argumento a favor o en contra de los Bonos de Obligación General, la Franquicia de Southwest Gas Corporation y la extensión propuesta de la Opción de Regla Local - Limitación Alternativa de Gastos, siempre y cuando el argumento no excede 300 palabras. Los Argumentos deben ser presentados electrónicamente ante la Secretaria de la Ciudad a cityclerk@tolleson.az.gov no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. el 5 de agosto del 2020 para ser publicado en el folleto publicitario de las elecciones generales del 3 de noviembre de 2020. Los argumentos deben incluir una declaración jurada de la persona que patrocina el argumento; para organizaciones que presenten argumentos, la declaración jurada debe ser de dos funcionarios ejecutivos; y para los comités de acción política que presenten argumentos, debe incluir la declaración jurada del presidente o tesorero del comité. El lenguaje de la declaración jurada puede ser el siguiente: "Yo declaro bajo pena de perjurio que la información anterior es verdadera y correc ta, y que soy el patrocinador de este argumento que defiende u opone esta medida, pregunta o propuesta".

Bajo la Opción de Regla Local, la Ciudad puede determinar sus propios gastos en función de sus ingresos y las necesidades de la comunidad. Si los votantes aprueban la extensión de la Opción de Regla Local – Limitación Alternativa de Gastos, la Ciudad estima que se le permitirá gastar aproximadamente $ 84,000,000 en 20212022, $88,200,000 en 2022-2023, $92,610,000 en 2023-2024 y $97,240,500 en 2024-2025. Si se aprueba, los gastos autorizados se financiarán con los ingresos obtenidos de fuentes federales, estatales y locales. Si no se aprueba la extensión de la Opción de Regla Local - Limitación Alternativa de Gastos, bajo la limitación impuesta por el estado, la Ciudad estima que se le permitirá gastar aproximadamente $16,574,623 en 2021-2022, $16,814,893 en 2022-2023, $18,009,557 en 2023-2024 y $18,778,427 en 2024-2025 para la operación de la Ciudad. Se requerirá que la Ciudad reduzca los gastos a la limitación actual estimada impuesta por el estado a pesar de que tiene los fondos para pagar los gastos.

Si los votantes aprueban la extensión de la Opción de Regla Local - Limitación Alternativa de Gastos, la Ciudad utilizará la autoridad de gastos para todos los propósitos presupuestarios locales, incluyendo las Operaciones General del Gobierno, Operaciones de Seguridad Pública, Operaciones de Campo, Cultura y Recreación, Desembolso de Capital de Seguridad Pública, Gasto de Capital de Calles, Desembolso de Capital del Gobierno General y Desembolso de Capital de Agua y Drenaje.

La pr opuesta de Bonos de Obligación General es emitir y vender bonos de obligación general de la Ciudad, que se pagarán con impuestos secundarios a la propiedad, con el fin de proporcionar fondos para parques y proyectos de recreación.

La Franquicia de Southwest Gas Corporation es por un período de hasta 25 años para el uso de los derechos de paso de la ciudad para fines de servicios públicos de gas.

Por orden del Ayuntamiento de Tolleson.

Publicado en el West Valley View y West Valley Business el miércoles 1 de julio de 2020 y 8 de julio de 2020 / 31536

PUBLIC NOTICE OF THE CITY OF TOLLESON, ARIZONA

You are hereby notified that the City Council of the City of Tolleson ordered that a General Election be held for the City on November 3, 2020, to submit to the voters choices for General Obligation Bonds, a Southwest Gas Corporation Franchise and whether to extend the Home Rule Option - Alternative Expenditure Limitation for the next four years for the Ci ty beginning in 2021-2022. On June 23, 2020, the City Council, by a vote of 5 ayes to 0 nays and 1 absent, authorized the proposed alternative excess expenditure to be submitted to the voters.

You may submit an argument for or against the General Obligation Bonds, the Southwest Gas Corporation Franchise and the proposed extension of the Home Rule Option - Alternative Expenditure Limitation, provided the argument does not exceed 300 words. Arguments must be filed electronically with the City Clerk at cityclerk@tolleson.az.gov no later than 5:00 p.m. on August 5, 2020 to be published in the publicity pamphlet for the November 3, 2020 General Election. Arguments must include a sworn statement from the person sponsoring the argument; for organizations submitting arguments, the sworn statement must b e from two executive officers; and for political action committees submitting arguments, the sworn statement of the committee’s chairman or treasurer must be included. Language of the sworn statement may be the following: “I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing information is true and correct, and I am the sponsor of this argument advocating or opposing this measure, question or proposition.”

Under the Home Rule Option, the City may determine its own expenditures based on its revenue and the needs of the community. If the extension of the Home Rule Option - Alternative Expenditure Limitation is approved by the voters, the City estimates it will be allowed to expend approximately $84,000,000 in 2021-2022, $88,200,000 in 2022-2023, $92,610,000 in 2023-2024, and $97,240,500 in 2024-2025. If approved, the expenditures authorized will be funded from revenues obtained from federal, state and local sources. If the extension of the Home Rule Option - Alternative Expenditure Limitation is not approved, under the state-imposed limitation, the City estimates it will be allowed to expend approximately $16,574,623 in 2021-2022, $16,814,893 in 2022-2023, $18,009,557 in 2023-2024, and $18,778,427 in 20242025 for the operation of the City. The City will be required to cut spending to the current estimated state-imposed limitation even though it has the funds to pay for the expenses.

If the extension of the Home Rule Option - Alternative Expenditure Limitation is approved by the voters, the City will utilize the expenditure authority for all local budgetary purposes including General Government Operations, Public Safety Operations, Field Operations, Culture and Recreation, Public Safety Capital Outlay, Streets Capital Outlay, General Government Capital Outlay, and Water and Sewer Capital Outlay.

The General Obligation Bonds proposal is to issue and sell general obligation bonds of the City, to be repaid with secondary property taxes, for the purpose of providing funds for parks and recreation projects.

The Southwest Gas Corporation Franchise is for a period of up to 25 years for the use of City rights-of-way for gas utility purposes.

By order of the City Council of Tolleson.

in the West Valley View and West Valley Business on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 and July 8, 202) /31537

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