West Valley View - North 08-19-2020

Auction set to raise funds for girls’ funeral

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI West Valley View Executive Editor

When Tamra Foor’s two preteen daughters were killed in a head-on crash Aug. 5, her friends needed to help.

They didn’t want her to worry about money, funeral expenses or the stress of everyday life as she recovered from a broken back and grieved.

They arranged fundraisers, including an online auction, for which they are still accepting items.

“Life has a way of sometimes ripping the rug right out from underneath you, leaving you breathless and struggling to accept the harsh reality of the fragility of life,” reads a flier handed out to families in Tolleson and friends of the Foor girls.

At about 4:23 p.m. Aug. 5, a person was driving a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck north on El Mirage Road when he or she failed to brake for a stop sign and collided with Tamra’s car. Tamra was returning from her parents’ house, driving east on Southern Avenue, according to Sgt. Calbert Gillett of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.

A Shasta Pools processor, Tamra was

BY TOM SCANLON West Valley View Managing Editor

injured, but her daughters, Tanner and Charlee, died as a result of the crash. The Silverado’s driver wasn’t injured, Gillett said.

Impairment is not suspected, but the case is pending further investigation, Gillett added.

“Tamra, Tanner and Charlee were inseparable,” said Karen Haggard, with the Odyssey 4-H, of which the girls were members.

“The girls were the center of Tamra’s world. ‘Beautiful, tough and full of life’ fall short of accurately describing the lives that have been taken.”

Like their mother, grandparents and uncle, they had a special love for horses. They raised dairy goats to show as part of 4-H, a club they were involved in for five years. They started as Cloverbuds, which is the 4-H

According to an Aug. 14 Wall Street Journal story, “U.S. households boosted retail spending 1.2% in July, the third straight monthly increase despite a rise in coronavirus infections.”

At the risk of bragging, the West Valley might comment: “That’s nothing!”

Despite slowdowns and shutdowns of restaurants, bars, gyms and movie theaters, the Goodyear/Avondale/Buckeye economy is not just surviving the COVID-19 pandemic but thriving through it. The West Valley economy soon could get another boost: Amazon recently purchased 90 acres in Goodyear.

Charlee Foor, left, and Tanner Foor, were active members of the Odyssey 4-H Club since they were Cloverbuds. (Photo courtesy Karen Haggard)

Goodyear Gold Buying

The global giant has not announced plans for that site and another West Valley property, but may do so soon.

revenue doubling, from $16 million to $32 million.

Yet sales tax revenue alone increased by 15%, from $48 million to $56 million.

Locally & Veteran Owned

Deliveries by Amazon, FedEx and other companies seem to be the only “drop off” the West Valley is experiencing during the pandemic.

There has been no “corona-dip” in Avondale, where the city’s sales tax revenues were up every month in 2020, compared to 2019.

Even March and April—the shutdown months—showed slight increases.

Avondale’s six-month total of sales tax revenue increased by 9%, from $25.6 million to $27.8 million.

Buckeye is also holding strong, according to a recent report by Bill Kauppi, the city’s chief financial officer.

He noted transaction privilege tax (commonly referred to as “sales tax”) revenue, the largest revenue source for the city’s general fund, is up 20% compared to last year’s figures.

While a construction boom is responsible for more than half of that, retail sales tax revenues were up a stunning 26%.

“To date, COVID-19 has had minimal effect on the overall TPT collections,” Kauppi said. Sales taxes from restaurants and bars were down by about $50,000, with hotel-motel sales tax down about $40,000. “Since March, the city and chamber assisted with a ‘Shop Local’ campaign for all businesses,” Kauppi said.

In Goodyear, Doug Sandstrom, the city’s finance director, said he has been presently surprised by the last few months—despite slowdowns.

Retail sales taxes increased nearly 30% for the year—finishing powerfully, with a 45% ramp up in June compared to the same month in 2019.

Perhaps the biggest shocker is that restaurant and bar sales taxes managed to increase by 1.3%, despite bars being closed for nearly two months and restaurants having stop-and-go closures due to the pandemic.

The restaurant and bar category in Goodyear also finished the fiscal year strong, up nearly 7% this June compared to last June.

“It’s been very surprising,” Sandstrom said. The local economy, he said, has “been pretty solid all through the pandemic.

“Because we’re so fast growing, we’re a young city, the economy is more set up to handle shocks to the system,” he mused. “The variety of businesses here and variety of people here really helps insulate us.”

A growth year in the midst of a global pandemic is impressive, Sandstrom noted: “It shows the strength of Goodyear and the West Valley in general.”

The Goodyear financial staff thinks stimulus checks and paycheck protection program loans have helped with consumer confidence. “We’ve been trying to dig in and figure out what causes some of these things,” Sandstrom said.

Whatever the reasons, the bottom line is huge: “We’ve been extremely happy with the results,” he said.

“It’s dramatically different from what we forecasted when the coronavirus (pandemic) started,” he said. “We went into this not knowing what to expect, having never been through a pandemic. We took what we thought was a conservative approach—at the time we questioned if it was conservative enough.

“Then our sales taxes kept coming in—more than they were in the past.”

Indeed: Goodyear’s 2019-20 fiscal year, which ended June 30, was better than 2018-19—in a big way.

Figures released last week show Goodyear’s sales tax and construction revenues increased by 36%, surging from $65 million to $89 million.

A big part of that was construction

Ditto for Joanne Osborne, a state representative and owner of Osborne Jewelry in Goodyear for 30 years. She credits loyal locals for supporting small businesses.

“We are blessed in the West Valley and supporting and shopping local is imperative to keeping all our favorite restaurants, shops and businesses alive,” Osborne said.

“As for how business is overall: depends on the industry,” noted John Safin, president and CEO of the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce.

“Any business that is dependent on large crowds, bulk sales or ‘splurge’ products are struggling. Bars, gyms and spas haven’t been doing well.”

But, Safin added, “We hear more good than bad.”

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group for 5- to 8-year-old children.

“They showed small stock and they were showing dairy goats,” Haggard said. “They actually even kept their project this past year. They successfully bred their dairy goats and had babies. They were raising them themselves as part of their herd.”

Tanner was 12 years old; she would have turned 13 on Sept. 3. Described as a tomboy, Tanner just started seventh grade at Country Place Elementary School. She was a reporter for her 4-H club and was planning on running for secretary this year. She was active in softball, loved to paint and played piano. She was hoping to start barrel racing soon.

Charlee died just short of her 11th birthday, Aug. 7. She was a sixth grader at Country Place Elementary School and was described as extremely caring. An avid Harry Potter fan, she was being tutored by Tanner in softball. Charlee played piano and was hoping to learn to play the cello.

Raising funds

Haggard and other friends of the Foor family and Tamra’s fiancé Josh Briningstool have organized the Foor the Girls Benefit Auction Facebook page, which will provide information about a benefit auction to raise money for funeral and medical expenses.

The organizers are accepting auction item donations via email at foorthegirls@gmail.com for items/services of a minimum of $250 value until Thursday, Aug. 20. The auction will go live Friday, Aug. 21, and close at 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31. They are also accepting donations through Venmo at FoorThe-Girls.

Jeff Maynard of Virtual Stock Show has agreed to help with the auction and include a link on his website. He will monitor the bidding process, and on Aug. 28 he will give the organizers the list of winners and their contact information.

“God’s leading people in the right direction,” Haggard said. “With all the calls and donations, it’s amazing what the community does for a family in need. I don’t know what we can do but show her the love we can.”

their community. Tamra and her brother, Nathaniel, are just really good people. Tamra was supermom not only being a hard-working single mom—until she met Josh—but she was always at the school at every opportunity to volunteer. Those girls are a reflection of their mother—the way they could mul-

titask and work hard and diligently and be responsible at such a young age.”

“The family is a long-time Tolleson family and they’re very involved in

Tamra Foor of Tolleson broke her back in a car crash that killed her daughters Charlee and Tanner. (Photo courtesy Karen Haggard)

FedEx facility moves ahead despite opposition

BY TOM SCANLON West Valley View Managing Editor

A plan to turn Falcon Golf Course into a FedEx transportation facility is ready to tee off, despite overwhelming opposition from Goodyear and Litchfield Park neighbors—as well as the city of Goodyear.

Since the West Valley View’s April story about the project, Romina Martucci generated an online protest against the project that received 2,000 signatures.

Though scores of neighbors protested at Maricopa County Planning and Zoning Commission meetings, the commission voted in May to recommend approval of a “cross-dock” facility at Falcon Golf Course on West Camelback Road.

The golf course is near the border of Goodyear and Litchfield Park at its south end, with Luke Air Force Base and Glendale on the north side.

After the planning approval, the project was sent to the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, which considered a request for a development plan (and military compatibility permit) July 22.

Chairman Clint Hickman introduced the project with a lengthy, personal story about how his family’s chicken farm and egg business faced opposition from West Valley neighbors as it grew—and was forced to move repeatedly.

After many neighbors repeated their protests about the traffic the facility would bring to north Goodyear and Litchfield Park, the board unanimously approved the developer’s request.

Neighbors were alarmed by a traffic study, which showed the project could have as many as 6,000 daily truck trips.

But board members noted almost all the traffic will travel a short distance on Cam-

elback Road to and from the Loop 303.

The board added at least 15 stipulations, including, “With the exception of routes for deliveries in the city of Litchfield Park, inbound heavy vehicles will enter the site on Camelback Road from the west.”

The developer is also required to pay for the cost of traffic signals and widening of part of Camelback Road.

Goodyear still opposed

The board vote concluded the public input portion of the development, which now only needs to obtain building and infrastructure permits to turn the golf course into a transportation facility.

The first stipulation to the board’s approval: “The owner/applicant shall be responsible for the improvements along Camelback Road as required by the city of Goodyear-approved Traffic Impact Study.”

The West Valley View asked Goodyear for a copy of the document in the county’s stipulation.

“There is no approved study at this point. There was a study the developer submitted in the spring which the city had some comments on which was shared with the developer who I believe is working to address them. But at this point, there is no approved study,” responded Tammy Vo, a Goodyear spokeswoman.

“The city remains opposed to the project but we are glad the stipulations require the developer to work with us on the traffic impacts,” Vo added.

The West Valley View emailed Hickman about the traffic study that Goodyear said has not been approved.

Scott Isham, a member of Hickman’s staff, responded: “Camelback Road is

within Goodyear’s jurisdiction. We added that stipulation for two reasons: 1) To ensure that Goodyear was the final decision-maker on what improvements were needed to Camelback Road; and 2) To require the developer to pay for those improvements. My understanding is that over the last several months the developer has submitted several iterations of the Traffic Impact Study to Goodyear for review. As of today, the study is not yet approved. According to Goodyear, there are a few remaining comments that the developer needs to address, but they are getting close to approval.”

He also noted another stipulation:

“Prior to issuance of any construction permits for any public right-of-way improvements ... an intergovernmental agreement between Maricopa County, the city of Glendale and the city of Goodyear must be executed, or an alternative plan for construction shall be approved, with respect to road improvements along Camelback Road.”

As Goodyear maintains some level of control on the project, Vo was asked if

the city will address the concerns of Falcon Golf Course neighbors.

“Regarding the residents, we can’t speak to how they may feel about their quality of life, but the city is committed to ensuring that any proposed projects impacting Goodyear are vetted appropriately to ensure our residents’ concerns are addressed and communicated,” Vo said.

Bill Stephens, Litchfield Park’s city manager, did not respond to a request for comment by press time.

John Connolly, who lives near Falcon Golf Course, was one of the leaders of those protesting. He started a fundraising campaign for legal assistance but fell short of the goal—which he said was needed to fight the “deep pockets” of Falcon owner Cowley Properties.

“We will continue to work the FedEx piece, as they typically would run from potentially toxic scenarios,” Connolly said, noting he is encouraging neighbors to “start emailing them and faxing your disdain for the project and process and let them know how this will destroy your quality of life.”

Police ask for help identifying body

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

The Avondale Police Department asks for help in identifying a man found dead July 5, 2019.

A facial sketch was provided to the police by the medical examiner’s office.

The man, who is believed to be between 50 and 80 years old, was found in the river bottom near Eliseo C. Felix Jr. Way and Van Buren Street in Avondale.

He was about 5-foot-10 with a Harley Davidson Motorcycle tattoo be-

neath a “USAF Special Forces” tattoo on his left arm.

To view the sketch, visit facebook. com/westvalleyview.

According to police, “It is unknown how he passed away, however, there is no indication of foul play. All leads to identify this victim have been exhausted to this date.

“If anyone has any knowledge regarding the identity of the victim, please contact the Avondale Police Department at 623-333-7000.”

Missing woman found dead in Buckeye

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

The day after a 75-year-old Apache Junction woman was reported missing, she was found dead in Buckeye.

Jean Fawley’s car was found abandoned in an undeveloped area of Buckeye near Riggs and Komatke roads the night of Aug. 13, according to Donna Rossi, a Buckeye Police spokeswoman.

“An extensive area search has been

underway since last night with the use of tracking dogs and helicopters but she has not turned up,” Rossi said, early Aug. 14.

Later the same day, Rossi said the Apache Junction woman was found dead less than a mile from her car.

“No foul play is suspected. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death,” Rossi said.

Avondale leads as WV housing market on a tear

BY PAUL MARYNIAK West Valley View Staff Writer

Sellers have no reason to be jittery about the Valley’s housing market— and especially some West Valley cities—judging by the Cromford Report’s latest look at last month’s home sale data for the region.

Avondale and Glendale have the hottest housing markets in the Valley, according to the latest index developed by Cromford Report—the leading analyst of the Phoenix Metro housing market.

Cromford uses a variety of data for an index that shows how favorable the market is toward buyers or sellers in 17 Valley municipalities.

With 100 on the index representing a balanced market, the higher above 100 for any city, the more tilted the market is toward sellers.

On that score, first-place Avondale has an unprecedented 717 with Glendale in second place at 530.2.

Phoenix ranks seventh with 387.4, followed by ninth-place Goodyear with 365.2.

Peoria’s 311.6 score gets it into 12th place, followed closely by Buckeye in 13th with a 303.6.

All that spells bad news for people looking to buy a home.

Cromford said that while the Valley’s nearly unprecedented low inventory of homes for sale is loosening a tad, prices are rising at an even quicker pace than they had in the first half of 2020.

“The housing market is extremely strong and has been hitting a number of new records in the last few days,” Cromford said, adding that inventory declined by only 3.5%—far weaker than in June.

“This is because we are seeing far more new listings than we got during the first half of the year,” Cromford said, adding that the increase “appears to be setting in for the long run.”

Noting closings were up 13% over July 2019, Cromford said demand— far from being curbed by the pandemic—“has reached heights that make it very strong by any historical standard.”

And that means buyers can expect

prices to rise faster—and homeowners can expect to see their houses appreciate at an even higher rate.

The average price per square foot rose 4.5% in July—which Cromford said would be normal year over year but not from one month to the next.

The total number of new and resale home deals closed in July in Maricopa County was 11,205—up 4.7 % over July 2019. The median sales price was $325,000, up 13.6 % from $286,000 a year ago.

Of the total closures, new homes accounted for 1,662—up 22.9% from July 2019. The median sales price was $363,511, up 2.1 % from $356,001 a year ago.

Prices on resales soared last month over July 2019.

The 9,543 closed resale home transaction had a median price of $317,000—up 14.4% from $277,000 in July 2019.

“This happened during a summer month, making it even more remarkable, because summer months are usu-

ally rather weak for pricing, even in strong markets,” it said.

Median sale price has risen 12.5% between July 2019 and last month, and the double-digit increase in appreciation is “something which we have not seen for six years,” Cromford said.

Cromford said all this adds up to a market that is “extremely unfavorable for buyers” just about anywhere in the Valley—and especially in the East Valley, where Chandler and Mesa rank fourth and fifth, respectively, on its index.

“Not only do they have to contend with prices rising at an unusually high rate, when they do find a house on which they would like to make an offer, they will probably find dozens of other buyers with exactly the same idea in mind,” Cromford said, adding this somber note for those looking to buy:

“We do not see things improving for buyers during August and most sellers can get away with being pretty much as unreasonable as they wish to be. Frustration, tension and stress are the order of the day.”

Border patrol agent charged

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI West Valley View Executive Editor

Carlos Victor Passapera Pinott, 53, of Buckeye, was arrested Aug. 9 on multiple counts of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.

Passapera was charged by complaint and had his initial appearance Aug. 10 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Leslie A. Bowman of the District of Arizona. He was assigned to the Tucson Sector Ajo Border Patrol Station.

According to the complaint, Passapera left his residence and drove south to a remote area of the border west of the Lukeville Port of Entry at about 3:15 a.m. Aug. 9.

Passapera then drove to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, where he loaded two duffel bags into another vehicle. Law enforcement agents stopped the driver of that vehicle after it left the airport and searched the duffel bags. The bags contained multiple packages of substances that field tested positive for the characteristics of cocaine (21 kilograms), heroin (1 kilogram) and

fentanyl (1 kilogram). The bags also contained approximately 350,000 pills. A sample from the pills field tested positive for the characteristics of fentanyl.

Law enforcement agents took Passapera into custody later that day while executing a search warrant at his residence. During the search, agents found approximately $329,000 in U.S. currency in Passapera’s residence, and an additional $40,000 in the vehicle Passapera used to transport the illegal narcotics.

Convictions for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances carry a maximum penalty of life in prison, a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years, and up to a $10 million fine.

The charges resulted from an investigation led by the FBI’s Southern Arizona Corruption Task Force, the Homeland Security Investigations, NATIVE Task Force in Sells, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The Public Integrity Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Tucson is handling the prosecution.

Federal, state primary election results finalized

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Social distancing restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic likely limited the number of candidates able to get signatures required to make the primary ballot.

But the pandemic apparently had little impact on the Aug. 4 primary.

On Aug. 14, the Maricopa County Elections Department finalized the federal and state primary elections held 10 days earlier.

According to the county, “a historic primary turnout” had 860,704 voters participating. That was nearly 25% more than the 699,636 ballots in the 2018 primary. (In the 2016 primary, 555,844 ballots were turned in to the county.)

The ballots returned represent 35% of the 2.4 million registered voters.

Voters were able to mail or drop off ballots or vote in person, with 99 polling places set up to provide social distancing.

With many races having little competition, there were no upsets, with incumbents cruising to the November general election.

Congressional races

In the 3rd Congressional District, which includes Buckeye and Avondale, only incumbent Raúl Grijalva filed as a Democrat candidate. Daniel Wood was the lone Republican to make the ballot in the 3rd Congressional District, though Richard Jolley is a write-in candidate.

Grijalva received 16,827 votes. Wood received 12,599 votes. They will square off in November.

The 7th Congressional District, which includes parts of Tolleson and Glendale, had just three candidates file: incumbent Ruben Gallego, a Democrat, and Republicans Joshua Barnett of Phoenix and Nina Becker of Sun City. Becker has withdrawn from the race.

In this overwhelmingly Democrat district, Gallego received 56,108 votes. Barnett received 15,245 votes. They will battle in November.

The Aug. 4 primary election had three Democrat candidates for the 8th Congressional District.

Rep. Debbie Lesko was the only Republican to file in District 8, which includes parts of Goodyear, Litchfield

Park, Waddell, Glendale and Peoria. Lesko received 105,758 votes.

There were three Democrats on the primary ballot for the 8th Congressional District: Michael Muscato of Peoria, Bob Musselwhite of Litchfield Park and Bob Olsen of Surprise.

Kyle Martin of Glendale filed as a write-in candidate.

Muscato, who received 35,923 votes, will attempt to unseat Lesko in the November election. Olsen received 20,547 votes and Musselwhite received 9,578 votes.

State races

In state District 4, which includes Buckeye and Goodyear, incumbents Geraldine “Gerae” Peten and Charlene Fernandez were the only two Democrats to file for the two House of Representatives seats. Joel John filed as a Republican candidate. Peten received 3,476 votes. Fernandez received 4,245 votes. John received 5,523 votes. All three will be on the November ballot, fighting for the two positions.

Incumbent Sen. Lisa Otondo of Yuma was the lone Democrat to file for the District 4 state Senate seat and Travis Angry of Goodyear the lone Republican to file. Otondo received 4,927 votes. Angry received 5,469 votes, setting up a November battle.

Arizona District 13 includes Buckeye, Litchfield Park and other parts of the West Valley.

Incumbent Sine Kerr, the lone Republican to file, received 20,934 votes for District 13 senator.

Three Republicans filed as District 13 representatives. Incumbents Tim Dunn, with 14,291 votes, and Joanne Osborne, with 11,688 votes, move on to the November ballot—with Osborne narrowly edging challenger Steve Montenegro, who received 11,313 votes.

Mariana Sandoval was the lone Democrat on the primary ballot for District 13. She received 12,617 votes.

In Avondale-Tolleson District 19, incumbent Sen. Lupe Contreras was the only Democrat to file; Steven Robinson of Phoenix is a write-in Republican candidate.

Coronavirus cases on decline, deaths increasing

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

The trend in August has been fewer total COVID-19 cases—but more deaths.

On Aug. 15, Maricopa County reported 128,187 cumulative positive tests. At the beginning of the month, there were 118,497 cumulative cases in the county.

The 9,690 cases averaged 646 new positive tests per day in August, a steep decline from the 2,250 new COVID-19 cases per day in Maricopa County in July. On Aug. 17, the county reported less than 200 new cases.

According to the state’s COVID-19 tracker, ZIP codes in Buckeye, Goodyear, Avondale and Tolleson/West Phoe-

nix were all close to or over 2,000 positive cases.

Glendale 85301 topped 3,000 cases, with neighboring 85303 nearing 2,000.

The county reported 2,537 cumulative deaths from COVID-19 mid-way into the month, a 25% increase from the 2,016 coronavirus-related deaths reported in the county Aug. 1.

Deaths in Arizona from COVID-19 increased by 20%, from 3,747 Aug. 1 to 4,492 Aug. 15.

The state began the month with 177,002 cumulative COVID-19 cases. On Aug. 15, there were 192,654, a 9% increase from Aug. 1.

Tres Rios Golf Course to close

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Tres Rios Golf Course at Estrella Mountain Regional Park will close temporarily starting Aug. 17, according to Maricopa County.

“The current operator, Tres Rios Golf LLC., a division of C-Bon International Golf Group, served notice to Maricopa County on July 6 that they wanted to terminate the contract,” said the release. “The 180-day termination clause in the contract would have meant a closure date in mid-December.”

But a month later, CBIGG notified

Elections...continued from page 6

Contreras received 13,156 votes.

Incumbents Diego Espinoza, with 9,167 votes, and Lorenzo Sierra, with 8,042 votes, moved past challenger Leezah Sun, who received 4,836 votes, in the Democrat primary for District 19 Arizona House of Representatives. There were no Republican candidates in District 19.

Arizona Legislative District 29 includes part of Glendale, Litchfield Park and Maryvale. The primary featured all of the incumbents: Sen. Martín Quezada and representatives Richard C. Andrade and Cesar Chavez.

Quezada, who lives in Glendale, had no competition on the Democrat ballot. John Wilson of Phoenix was the lone Republican candidate on the District 29 Senate ballot.

the county it was planning to close the Goodyear course much sooner.

“CBIGG has cited an on-going loss of revenue as the reason for their desire to terminate the lease. Throughout the last month, the county and CBIGG have been informally seeking interest from viable golf course operators to take over without success. The county will now begin a formal process to seek interested parties for a new management agreement,” said the press release.

CBIGG has agreed to provide a minimal level of maintenance over the next three months as the county seeks a new operator.

Quezada received 12,053 votes and in November will face Wilson, who received 5,400 votes.

Teddy Castro, a Litchfield Park resident, was the third Democrat on the District 29 House of Representatives ballot, joining Andrade and Chavez.

Andrade and Chavez move on to the November ballot, with Andrade receiving 5,868 votes and Chavez receiving 8,731. Castro received 4,684 votes.

Three Republicans were on the District 29 House of Representatives primary ballot: Billy Bragg, Helen Fokszanskyj-Conti and Alysia McMillan.

Bragg and FokszanskyJ-Conti move on to November, with Bragg receiving 3,826 votes and Fokszanskyj-Conti receiving 2,834 votes. McMillan receiving 2,206 votes.

Goodyear Police reopening investigation of former teacher

BY TOM SCANLON West Valley View Managing Editor

Whistleblowers’ complaints led Goodyear Police Chief Santiago Rodriguez to reopen an investigation regarding a former Goodyear teacher accused of having sex with at least two of her students.

The West Valley View emailed questions to Rodriguez concerning accusations received by the newspaper, including allegations that the teacher’s close relationship with a Goodyear Police officer shielded her from a proper investigation.

Rodriguez responded to the West Valley View with an Aug. 14 email:

“In your email, you inquired about two teachers and a parent who brought information to your attention regarding a Goodyear teacher having sex with minors. You also indicated concerns that the teacher was being protected by a Goodyear Police officer

“At this time, the city of Goodyear Police Department has assigned a detective to review this matter and is moving forward with an investigation based on the

information disclosed in a recent internal affairs investigation.”

The West Valley View is not naming the teacher, as she has not been charged with any crimes. The allegations against the teacher are believed to be from 201213, according to police reports.

After receiving a complaint about how the father of a potential victim was treated by former Deputy Police Chief Justin Hughes (who retired last month), Rodriguez forwarded the matter for investigation to the Gilbert Police Department.

Detective Kevin Shipley, who investigated the matter, found Hughes did not violate department policy and treated the parent respectfully

But the Gilbert detective found fault with another Goodyear officer.

According to a copy of the investigation the West Valley View received, the father of a potential victim “attempted to report this allegation to School Resource Officer Michael McFadden on May 3, 2018.

“Officer McFadden advised he would not be taking a report on the matter be-

cause the complaint had already been investigated and unfounded by the Goodyear Police Department in 2013.”

The Gilbert report states this was the second allegation raised against the same teacher—and that McFadden incorrectly assumed it had been investigated.

Shipley wrote that he interviewed the Goodyear officer who was assigned to work at a high school.

“Officer McFadden explained that he did not take a police report because he researched the report writing system after his first conversation with (name redacted) and located, what he thought was, a completed and unfounded investigation from 2013,” Shipley wrote.

“Officer McFadden acknowledged that he had mistakenly provided the wrong report to (name redacted) and explained that he ‘did not pay enough attention to detail’ and ‘got names confused.’ ... Officer McFadden agreed with this investigator that a report of a teacher having sex with a student is a significant allegation. When asked if he thought about contacting a supervisor or someone assigned to Investigations to brief them on the matter, Officer McFadden said he believes he did contact a supervisor but did not recall who he contacted or what was discussed.”

The conclusion:

ment, we do not have a written policy per se,” Rodriguez said. “However, if a potential abuse victim stated specifically that he or she did not feel comfortable working with the assigned Goodyear Police Department detective, then we would utilize another agency to assist with victim interviews depending upon the victim’s level of comfort.

“The city currently works closely with local advocacy facilities who house independent experts and other local law enforcement agencies to assist with the case interviews and other aspects of abuse cases.”

“The Gilbert Police Department investigation discovered that Corporal McFadden failed to properly investigate or complete a report regarding a criminal allegation.”

After receiving the report, the Goodyear Police Department disciplined McFadden with a “letter of instruction.”

Two former teachers and a parent of a potential victim told the West Valley View they do not believe the Goodyear Police Department will investigate the allegations because of the teacher’s relationship with an officer and the way the parent alleges he has been treated by the department.

McFadden received three previous letters of instruction for unrelated policy violations and “unsatisfactory performance.”

Goodyear policies

According to the Gilbert report, the Goodyear Police Department stopped its investigation of the teacher when the potential victims did not come forward.

The West Valley View asked Rodriguez about his department’s policies in these scenarios.

“Regarding any policy where potential abuse victims do not feel comfortable speaking to the Goodyear Police Depart-

“The Goodyear Police Department will investigate any allegations of crime which may have occurred, regardless of the victim’s or defendant’s connection to the police department,” Rodriguez said.

“As for conflicts of interest concerning Goodyear Police Department employees, if there is a conflict of interest regarding a potential victim/defendant and a Goodyear investigator, then the Goodyear Police Department would take appropriate action to ensure the investigation is completed in a manner that would remove the conflict.”

Rodriguez has been the city’s police chief since Jerry Geier was suspended in October. When Geier was fired after an investigation, Rodriguez was promoted from acting to permanent police chief.

Goodyear Police Chief Santiago Rodriguez reopened an investigation regarding a former Goodyear teacher accused of having sex with at least two of her students. (West Valley View file photo)

Ducey defends reopening schools, closing some businesses

BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

Gov. Doug Ducey recently defended hard-and-fast limits on some businesses’ reopening while saying it’s OK for schools to send children back to class even if local health conditions do not meet the guidelines set by his own state health director.

The governor also said that unlike the restrictions on businesses, he has no interest in making those safety guidelines for schools mandatory.

“We’ve got different variations of spread throughout the state,’’ Ducey said, adding the state and most counties are “headed in the right direction.’’

Ducey’s remarks came during a week when several landlord groups sued to overturn his eviction orders, bars are awaiting a state Supreme Court hearing on their effort to overturn his indefinite closure order and a Mesa water park filed suit to do the same.

“What we wanted to do is provide a menu of options and flexibility in the

guidelines so there’s safety inside our schools,’’ the governor said. But he said the “ultimate and final decisions’’ to superintendents and principals.

The guidelines released last week say that schools should consider a three-part test before offering any in-person instruction at all.

Schools are safe to open, the guidelines state, if communities have: a decline in the number of cases for at least two weeks; two weeks where positive COVID-19 tests are less than 7%; fewer than 10% of hospital visits for at least two weeks are for people with COVIDlike symptoms.

As of Thursday, Maricopa and 10 other counties met two of the three benchmarks with four meeting only one.

The health department has set similar benchmarks for reopening of now-shuttered businesses. But only two counties have reached the point where spread is considered only “moderate’’ and some of these can reopen, albeit only on a limited basis.

Buckeye Police search for armed car prowlers

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Beware, Buckeye residents: Armed young men are breaking into vehicles.

According to the Buckeye Police Department, before dawn Thursday, Aug. 13, Buckeye police officers responded to a call about a shooting in the area of 22000 W. Shadow Drive. “When they got there, officers contacted two victims inside a pickup truck which had been struck by at least one bullet,” said Donna Rossi, a police spokeswoman.

“The victims said one of their vehicles had just been burglarized by two suspects. As the victims attempted to confront the suspects, one of the suspects produced a handgun. As the victims attempted to drive away, one of the suspects fired multiple rounds at the victims’ truck—striking it with one of the rounds nearly missing the driver.”

Rossi said officers found “numerous other vehicles with doors open or obvious signs someone had entered them” in the area.” A stolen truck was found near the shooting.

“Evidence was located that linked the two suspects not only to the shooting but to the stolen vehicle and the multiple vehicle burglaries,” Rossi said.

She asked for assistance in finding the suspects, believed to be Hispanic boys 15 to 18 years old. One was seen on video wearing a Karl Malone Utah Jazz No. 32 jersey.

To view the video, visit the West Valley View’s Facebook page at facebook. com/westvalleyview.

Rossi requested anyone with information on the suspects call the Buckeye Police Department at 623-364-6400.

Ducey’s plan to reopen schools gets an F from Arizona educational, medical leaders at conference

BY SAMANTHA PACHECO MOLINA West Valley View Contributing Writer

In a video conference Aug. 10, state physicians and education voices called on Gov. Doug Ducey to provide stronger state leadership; support to school districts; and stricter guidelines to keep all students, educators, staff and families safe during the reopening process. Ducey, along with the Arizona Department of Health Services and the Arizona Department of Education, recently announced a “Roadmap for Reopening Schools.” In-person learning was not

allowed until Aug. 17. After that, school districts were permitted to make their own decisions, based on data provided by the state in different categories.

“With no evidence to back up this roadmap metric, Gov. Ducey is telling Arizona that students can return to class, when conditions are clearly not safe to do so,” said Dr. Dionne Mills, an obstetrician-gynecologist in Gilbert.

The panel of medical professionals and school districts claim the outline

Reopen...continued on page 12

The Buckeye Police Department released video of two teenagers suspected of stealing from cars—and shooting at a victim. (Images courtesy Buckeye Police)

NEW TIMES REQUIRE NEW THINKING

Better read this if you are 62 or older and still making mortgage payments.

It’s a well-known fact that for many older Americans, the home is their single biggest asset, often accounting for more than 45% of their total net worth. And with interest rates near all-time lows while home values are still high, this combination creates the perfect dynamic for getting the most out of your built-up equity.

But, many aren’t taking advantage of this unprecedented period. According to new statistics from the mortgage industry, senior homeowners in the U.S. are now sitting on more than 7.19 trillion dollars* of unused home equity.

Not only are people living longer than ever before, but there is also greater uncertainty in the economy. With home prices back up again, ignoring this “hidden wealth” may prove to be short sighted when looking for the best long-term outcome.

All things considered, it’s not surprising that more than a million homeowners have already used a government-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) loan to turn their home equity into extra cash for retirement.

It’s a fact: no monthly mortgage payments are required with a government-insured HECM loan; however the borrowers are still responsible for paying for the maintenance of their home, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance and, if required, their HOA fees.

Today, HECM loans are simply an effective way for homeowners 62 and older to get the extra cash they

need to enjoy retirement.

Although today’s HECM loans have been improved to provide even greater financial protection for homeowners, there are still many misconceptions.

For example, a lot of people mistakenly believe the home must be paid off in full in order to qualify for a HECM loan, which is not the case. In fact, one key advantage of a HECM is that the proceeds will first be used to pay off any existing liens on the property, which frees up cash flow, a huge blessing for seniors living on a fixed income. Unfortunately, many senior homeowners who might be better off with a HECM loan don’t even

family members. Some people simply need the extra cash for everyday expenses while others are now using it as a safety net for financial emergencies. If you’re a homeowner age 62 or older, you owe it to yourself to learn more so that you can make the best decision - for your financial future.

bother to get more information because of rumors they’ve heard.

In fact, a recent survey by American Advisors Group (AAG), the nation’s number one HECM lender, found that over 98% of their clients are satisfied with their loans. While these special loans are not for everyone, they can be a real lifesaver for senior homeowners - especially in times like these.

The cash from a HECM loan can be used for almost any purpose. Other common uses include making home improvements, paying off medical bills or helping other

*Source: https://reversemortgagedaily.com/2019/12/17/senior-housing-wealth-reaches-record-high-of-7-19-trillion

Reverse mortgage loan terms include occupying the home as your primary residence, maintaining the home, paying property taxes and homeowners insurance. Although these costs may be substantial, AAG does not establish an escrow account for these payments. However, a set-aside account can be set up for taxes and insurance, and in some cases may be required. Not all interest on a reverse mortgage is tax-deductible and to the extent that it is, such deduction is not available until the loan is partially or fully repaid.

AAG charges an origination fee, mortgage insurance premium (where required by HUD), closing costs and servicing fees, rolled into the balance of the loan. AAG charges interest on the balance, which grows over time. When the last borrower or eligible non-borrowing spouse dies, sells the home, permanently moves out, or fails to comply with the loan terms, the loan becomes due and payable (and the property may become subject to foreclosure). When this happens, some or all of the equity in the property no longer belongs to the borrowers, who may need to sell the home or otherwise repay the loan balance. V2020.06.30 NMLS# 9392 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). American Advisors Group (AAG) is headquartered at 3800 W. Chapman Ave., 3rd & 7th Floors, Orange CA, 92868. Licensed in 49 states. Please go to www.aag.com/legal-information for full state license information. These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.

Get them care, while still being careful.

Even in times like these, your child’s healthcare needs don’t stop. At Phoenix Children’s, we’re making it safer for you to see us, with telehealth appointments and enhanced precautions for in-person visits. Whether your child requires vaccines, an appointment with a specialist or a scheduled surgery, don’t let being careful stop you from getting your kids the care they need. Visit phoenixchildrens.org or call 602-933-KIDS to schedule an appointment.

Coach arrested for sex with juvenile

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

On Aug. 5, Goodyear Police arrested Calvin Washington, 23, on charges he had sex with a 17-yearold girl. A neighbor called police to report two young people having sex in a car in the middle of the afternoon.

The girl told police she was relieved and “she felt like she could not tell him no.”

She told police Washington was her basketball coach. The victim told police she had sex with Washington three times. The first time came after he asked her to “hang out” after basketball practice at her high school in Buckeye, according to the police report.

“Upon being contacted police officers, the male (Calvin Washington) told officers that he and the female had just had sex prior to being contacted by law enforcement,” the report said.

Washington told officers he had sex with the victim multiple times starting in February.

Vaccines. Scheduled surgeries. Specialist visits.

The report stated police received a call from a citizen reporting a male and female having sex in a vehicle on West Pueblo Avenue in Goodyear.

Reopen...continued from page 10

is too vague and will not be sufficient enough to combat the spread of the virus.

“From a medical perspective, the most alarming thing about Gov. Ducey’s plan for reopening is that its recommendations simply aren’t quite that backed by science or evidence,” said Mills. “And that is scary.”

“We know that COVID-19 is just as disproportionately hurting working families in Arizona—especially in the Black, Latino and Native American communities, the impact is great,” said Devin Del Palacio, a Tolleson Union High School District board member.

“Ignoring some of the educational needs of the underserved and at risk students will only further set back our entire generation of children.”

In response to the governor’s reopening plans, state professionals have produced their own set of “data driven and scientific based” guidelines for school districts to use when reopening.

The list, compiled by educators and medical experts, includes benchmarks like adequate testing with a positivity

According to the report, “Washington told investigators he was aware of the victim’s age because she told him she is 17 years old and he knows about when her birthday is based on social media profiles. Washington further told investigators that he has known the victim for about a year and a half and has acted as her basketball coach.”

After an initial court appearance Aug. 6, Washington has a preliminary hearing Sept. 11.

rate of less than 5%, faster testing results and widespread contact tracing.

Some said teachers are concerned for their safety.

“They are writing wills and are putting together contingency plans for their own children, should they be hospitalized or worse,” said Beth Lewis, co-founder of Save Our Schools Arizona.

“As educators and parents we are extremely concerned that the people we elect to lead us have given up and have left local communities to fend for ourselves,” Lewis said.

Ducey’s roadmap asks educational staff and students to act as emotional and behavior counsels as well as recognize the symptoms of COVID-19.

One said the plan puts added responsibility and stress on school staff and students.

“Piling on more roles and responsibility for our staff without additional resources will only add to the burden and ultimately hurt our most disadvantaged students,” said Del Palacio

“Our resources are already shorthanded,” Del Palacio said. “And we are now expected to do more, with less.”

Calvin Washington, 23, is charged with having sex with a 17-year-old girl. He was her basketball coach. (Photo courtesy Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office)

David Leibowitz will return next week

OUR READERS’ VIEWPOINTS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Election choice

Editor:

Ballot choice: Republican or Democrat. Critical choice: Defenders or defunders. You decide.

Lynne Cole Goodyear

Mark Kelly’s political ads

Editor:

I think I just watched the 1 millionth Mark Kelly ad for the Senate. It started when the pandemic started. Even when people were getting sick and dying, Kelly would not pull these ads. He was the only one running for office who was doing political ads at that time. He should be ashamed of himself. I never thought of him in the negative or the positive until these ads. I don’t believe he did anything to help during the current crisis. Not impressed with him. I respect his wife, but that’s her, not him. Think before you vote.

Samuel Diamond Goodyear

Recycling and hauling vehicles

Editor:

Falling rain, snow and leaves have been part of my life experience, but until this month, I had never experienced falling recycling debris.

Twice this month, while traveling west on I-10 near the Jackrabbit and Verrado Way exits, I had the bad luck to be following a large, uncovered recycling truck whose water bottles, multicolored paper and bags were randomly flying out the top and raining onto my, and other, vehicles and across the roadway. The same thing happened Wednesday

of this week while driving on Highway 303 near the Waddell exit. These three experiences caused me to consider the thousands of customers who spend their time separating recycling from garbage, as directed by their respective recycling companies, only to have their trash now littering our highways.

The mystery is why these recycling carriers have not covered the tops of their vehicles, which would be a simple and sensible solution. I have seen other recycling carriers with metal grates or tightly fitted covers that adequately contain debris. Uncovered trucks of any kind, including dirt, rock and gravel haulers, should be pulled over, ticketed, fined and instructed to clean up the mess left behind at their expense. They should also be required to pay for damaged vehicles instead of sticking insurance companies with the costs and vehicle drivers with the deductible and increased premiums. Arizona is too beautiful to cover with litter, so smarten up, recycling and hauling companies! You know who you are.

Sandra Singleton Buckeye

Where are the water cannons?

Editor:

During every single riot, which has wrongfully been called a “peaceful protest,” am I the only person on Earth that has noticed not one water cannon or shield was used by the police to try to quell the “myth” as Jerrold Nadler described the anarchy in Portland?

What happened to police in every police department in the country having riot gear at their disposal? Those shields that we all have seen police use in riots for years, could have saved untold injuries to police officers from bottles of frozen water to rocks to anything thrown at the officers. Where were the police chiefs? Water

cannons can disperse crowds fast, but not one city used a single one of them. They could even be used to put out fires that the “peaceful demonstrators” set. What garage are they parked at? How many police precincts have to be burned to the ground before mayors let the police do their job?

This is the Democratic Party at work, permitting anarchy. Even Third World countries use water cannons and shields for riots. We are not yet a Third World country, but if the Democrats win, mark your calendar. Your money is used to pay for all of the destroyed police cars and burned buildings. Don’t worry: If the Democrats win, they will raise your taxes to the moon to pay for all the damage they caused, along with all the “free stuff” they will “hand out.”

The destroyed police cars were in perfect working order before the Democrat mayors and governors allowed “peaceful demonstrators” to destroy them at your cost. Are you going to allow mayors and governors who refuse to call in the national guard to keep ruining your cities? Or do you protect the Democrats that much to allow a crime wave? Do you love crime that much? Then, by all means, defund the police and call the mayor or governor who put you in

this position when crime knocks at your door. Please let me know how long it takes for them to send you help. If you chose to move to Venezuela, at least they use water cannons to disperse riots.

James Logan Buckeye

Coronavirus

Editor:

Let’s all step back and take a macro view of the effects of the coronavirus on the United States. It is estimated that 2.8 million persons would die in the United States this year from all causes. It was initially estimated that 2 million additional persons would die this year from the coronavirus if we did nothing—a number that would have been intolerable. At this point near mid-August we have 168,000 deaths from the coronavirus— the majority of whom had one or more underlying serious medical conditions, and I think it’s fair to say that there is a possibility that a fair number of these persons would have passed this year anyway. This is not to minimize the pain and suffering of anyone affected by the vi-

Why vaccinations are important during a pandemic

BY DR. LANE TASSIN Guest Writer

The illness COVID-19 continues to affect more people each day. If a person contracts an infectious disease during this pandemic, their immune system may be weakened and leave them susceptible to suffering the more deadly effects of SARS-CoV-2. Until there is an effective vaccine to this particular coronavirus, it’s particularly important to protect yourself against easily preventable diseases by receiving available vaccines. Everyone should review their shot record and get up to date with currently recommended vaccinations.

What are vaccines?

the appropriate vaccines for your age group and risk factors. Common adult vaccinations include influenza, hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, shingles and pneumococcal pneumonia. In preparation for this year’s flu season, it’s highly recommended that everyone over 6 months of age get their flu shot early before the onset of flu season. Take advantage of available vaccinations to stay as healthy as possible in case you develop COVID-19.

What’s the difference between vaccination and immunization?

Vaccines are FDA-approved medications prepared with dead or weakened microorganisms that help your immune system prepare to fight certain germs. A vaccine stimulates your body to produce appropriate antibodies to fight off a foreign invader. As a result, your immune response becomes faster and more effective in responding to future infections.

How can I know which vaccines to receive?

Have a discussion with your health care provider to ensure you’re receiving

Letters...continued from page 13

rus but, rather, to give some perspective as a whole on the virus’ effects. It now appears as if a vaccine will be ready in record time that will allow us to become immune as a society from this virus.

I think our society has done a magnificent job of controlling the impact of this virus. There has been a lot of partisan bickering and complaining by the general public, but the country has muddled through somehow. Congratulations to us all.

Moving forward, I think we all need to be more open to creative ways to reopen businesses (yes, Gov. Doug Ducey, this means you) and we need to

Many people use the word immunization interchangeably with vaccination, but they’re not the same thing. Immunization is the process that happens in the human body after a vaccination is received. There are a wide variety of vaccinations available for the prevention of life-threatening diseases. To learn more about available vaccines, contact your health care provider or visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov to view a full vaccination schedule.

Dr. Lane Tassin, co-chief medical officer, FastMed Urgent Care, is a member of the American Board of Internal Medicine and spent 22 years in emergency medicine before joining FastMed in 2012.

keep our masks on in public (not while we’re driving alone, please).

Robert L Morgan Goodyear

How to get a letter published

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

E-mail: editor@westvalleyview.com

DR. LANE TASSIN

Business Briefcase

BY TOM SCANLON

West Valley View Managing Editor

It’s not just the weather: The West Valley is hot, hot, hot.

One big deal after another is being chalked up, on both sides of Interstate 10. Did you think the Amazon $20 million purchase near the Loop 303 would be impossible to top?

Think again: According to commercial real estate tracker Vizzda.com, two industrial buildings on 13 acres at 10205 W. Roosevelt Street in Avondale recently sold ... for $24.5 million

The sale was between PGIM Real Estate and Crow Holdings, according to the site.

The commercial real estate marketing site loopnet.com shows a listing for the property at this address called 101 Logistics Center

One of the buildings was completed in 2018 with the second one brand new.

The location is next to the Avondale Auto Mall, just south of I-10.

A brochure pumps up those three key words, location, location, location: “101 Logistics Park is a two-building, Class A, master-planned industrial development located in Avondale, developed by Seefried Industrial Properties. Located less than 1/2 mile from the con-

fluence of Interstate 10 and Loop 101, 101 Logistics Park offers direct access to Interstate 10 and Loop 101 via 99th Avenue.”

• Speaking of real estate: EXIT Realty

— Realty Place welcomes Latia Twilley and Sommer Daye to its team of real estate sales professionals.

EXIT Realty - Realty Place is at 501 E. Plaza Circle Suite P, Litchfield Park.

“A portion of every transaction fee received by EXIT Realty Corp. International is applied to its charitable fund and to-date, more than $5.5 million has been pledged to charity.” For more information, visit exitrealty.com.

• For growing businesses: Buckeye’s Economic Development Department is accepting applications to its Catalyst Program. “Existing, local businesses can apply to help expand, rehabilitate, beautify or enhance their landscaping, or provide public parking or lighting,” according to a press release.

The program’s budget is $125,000. Businesses can ask for up to $50,000.

Interested business owners can download and review the detailed program guide and program application at growbuckeye.com.

• More Avondale news: Landsea Homes started construction on 75 sin-

gle-family homes called Riata at Alamar. The planned community is near South Avondale Boulevard and West Lower Buckeye Road.

“We’re excited to begin work on Riata at Alamar. It is such a coveted piece of land in one of the fastest-growing cities in the West Valley, and we look forward to providing best-in-class, high-performance homes and unique amenities for new residents,” said Todd Condon, Landeas’s vice president of sales and marketing.

According to Landsea, the first phase of the Alamar master-planned community includes 461 homes within six distinct neighborhoods. “It represents one of the largest master-planned commu-

nities to be developed since 2013.”

The planned community is to be anchored by a 30-acre regional park, built in partnership with the city of Avondale. “The development will additionally feature 34 art-filled parks, more than 10 miles of biking paths and hiking trails, and plenty of multi-use green spaces,” Landsea said.

For more information about Riata at Alamar, visit landseahomes.com/alamar/riata.

• Landsea is feeling pretty good, with a recent announcement that four of its new communities sold out, including Destiny at Verrado, 68 homes in Buckeye that opened for sale in June 2019.

Latia Twilley and Sommer Daye recently joined EXIT Realty

A new Avondale commercial property called 101 Logistics Park sold for $24.5 million. (Photo courtesy Crow Holdings)

Domestic violence shelters seek donations

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

New Life Center, one of the largest domestic violence shelters in the country, is asking the community for donations needed to help survivors and their children. The center not only provides emergency shelter from victims escaping domestic abuse but also gives them any and all necessities completely free of charge. This includes clothes, shoes, toiletries, luggage, bedding and more.

The West Valley-based organization seeks the following:

• School supplies—backpacks, pens, paper, notebooks, etc.

• Summer clothes for children.

• Women’s shoes.

• Brooms.

• Buckets.

• Mops.

• Mattress covers.

• Window curtains.

• Liquid hand soap.

• Blankets.

Donated items must be new.

To donate, email sallen@newlifectr. org to coordinate a drop-off/pickup.

New Life Center serves more than 1,000 children and adults annually through an emergency shelter and outreach support program, where more than 70% of the shelter population is children.

For more information, visit newlifectr.org.

Tips for monsoon season

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

The American Red Cross recommends the following as Arizona is in monsoon/ severe thunderstorm season:

• Turn around, don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.

• If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.

• Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio or news channels for the latest updates.

• If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.

• Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.

• If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.

• If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.

• Put together an emergency kit.

• Know your community’s evacuation plan.

• Create a household disaster plan and practice it.

• Purchase a battery-powered or handcrank radio.

• Discuss thunderstorm safety with members of your household. Be aware that a thunderstorm could produce flooding.

• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights or glass doors, which could be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.

Download the free Red Cross Emergency App to access real-time information about the storm, shelter locations and safety tips. The Emergency App is available in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

West Valley View Dining

Emma Stone, Nick Cartell headline Valley Youth Theatre’s VYTal Affair-athon Aug. 22

BY KATY SPRINGER West Valley View Contributing Writer

When Valley Youth Theatre streams its VYTAl Affair-athon Saturday, Aug. 22, viewers will recognize many beloved local performers and stars of stage and screen. VYT alumni including Academy Award winner Emma Stone and Broadway’s Nick Cartell, who recently completed a two-and-a-half-year run as Jean Valjean in the National Tour of “Les Misérables,” are among the 132 performers who have signed on to help raise money for VYT.

VYTal Affair-athon, an eight-hour, Jerry-Lewis-style telethon featuring live and recorded interviews and performances, will be streamed live from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on facebook.com/valleyyouththeatre, youtube. com/user/VYTPhoenix and at VYT.com.

The West Valley will be well-represented in VYTAl Affair-athon with youth and alumni from Avondale, Glendale and Buckeye performing musical num-

bers from the VYT stage. When asked to participate in the fundraiser, 18-year-old Max Mendoza of Avondale responded, “I would be honored to be a part of VYT’s 2020 VYTal Affair-athon because the ability to do what I can to support an organization that has given me so much is invaluable, especially during these trying times.”

The online event replaces the 26th annual VYTal Affair, the theater’s biggest fundraiser of the year. The COVID-19 crisis forced the cancellation of live performances across the globe. Five months later and stages are still dark, cutting off revenue and creating uncertainty for many local theaters. Since March, VYT has canceled four major productions along with in-person classes and camps.

VYTal Affair-athon provides a reason to be hopeful, not to mention opportunities for thespians to jump back on stage at a time when performance opportunities are few and far between.

Said Bobb Cooper, longtime artistic director of the theater, “I believe VYT has always been at the right place at the right time and that we can always find the silver lining in anything that might come our way, including this pandemic.”

Most of the telethon was pre-recorded in accordance with social distancing guidelines. In addition to vocal performances of beloved Broadway favorites, the fundraiser will include live Zoom interviews with alumni, original songs written for the event, virtual cast reunions, multi-track numbers and a few

surprise guests. Each hour of the telethon will be hosted by a local celebrity, including Yetta Gibson, Cory McCloskey, Gina Salazar Hook, John Hook and Brad Perry.

VYTKids from productions over the past 30 years jumped at the opportunity to participate in the fundraiser.

“For the first time ever, we will be able to showcase the incredible talent Phoenix has to offer to people around the world,” Cooper said.

“We have performers from the age of 9 to seasoned professionals who were in our shows in 1989. They include attorneys, police officers, professional cheerleaders and drag queens, Broadway performers, TV stars and even Academy Award winners.”

Viewers can tune in and out anytime throughout VYTAl Affair-athon. For more information or to make a donation, visit VYT.com.

Max Mendoza of Avondale is part of the VYTAl A air-athon, headlined by Emma Stone. (Photo courtesy YVT)

GO FIGURE!

by Linda Thistle

King Crossword

Andrew Lloyd Webber title role 40 Microsoft bigwig

Last Supper”

Poets’ Muse

Beseech

Masseur’s workplace

Sweet potato

Mainlander’s memento

U-Haul rental

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.

Schools continue remote education, with on-site options

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Two weeks after many West Valley schools started providing online, remote education for students, school districts continue to figure out options for in-person learning.

While Gov. Doug Ducey is allowing districts to continue remote learning, he directed districts to provide on-site learning for children who need a place to go during school hours starting Aug. 17.

But there is a waiver option to Ducey’s executive order—and Tolleson Union High School District, for one, has been granted an exception to the rule of providing an on-site option.

On Aug. 14, three days before the deadline, TUSD Superintendent Nina Gutierrez sent a letter to parents and community members stating the district was granted a waiver and will not offer on-site services.

“After reviewing the date, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health agrees that TUHSD should refrain from providing on-site support services in our schools until community spread of COVID-19 has decreased,” Gutierrez said.

“We want nothing more than to have our students on our campuses and learning in classrooms with their teachers; however, it is not safe to do so at this time.”

She stressed that online education will continue “every day from bell to bell.”

The TUHSD board voted July 29 to start remote teaching Aug. 4 but to not open campuses for on-site learning until Oct. 9.

TUHSD includes Copper Canyon High School in Glendale; La Joya Community High School, West Point High School and Westview High School in Avondale; and Tolleson Union High School and University High School in Tolleson.

Saddle Mountain Unified School District

SMUSD began classes Aug. 6 in a remote format.

“Saddle Mountain is continuing to follow the governor’s executive orders,” said Paul Tighe, the district superintendent.

“We successfully opened Aug. 6 with remote learning for all students. On-site support will be available at all campuses beginning next week, with services for disabled students being delivered on-site for some students.”

He said parents can request onsite support at the district website, smusd90.org.

“Breakfasts and lunches will also be available at all schools starting next week. In-person learning will resume after state and county health officials have determined it is safe to do so,” Tighe said.

“Our staff distributed close to 2,000 Chromebooks over the past two weeks and our foundation has supported scholarships for internet access for many students.”

Agua Fria Union High School District

“We have experienced a very positive remote opening,” said Dennis Runyan, the district superintendent.

“Our teachers and students have really stepped up to create the best possible temporary virtual learning experience we can devise for over 8,500 students. It has been an amazing process created by many talented employees.”

The district includes Agua Fria High School in Avondale, Canyon View High School in Waddell, Desert Edge High School and Millennium High School in Goodyear and Verrado High School in Buckeye.

Runyan said some students “are coming onto various campuses for specific supports identified in their personal education plans. We have continued to work as safely as possible with a number of safety protocols. Staff has access

to masks, shields and even medical scrubs, depending on the nature of the exceptional needs being addressed.”

He said “a central location for students who ‘need a place to be’ where they will be socially distancing and have access to their laptops to continue to follow their virtual scheduled classes” would begin Aug. 17, as mandated by Ducey.

“It remains our hope with proper monitoring, and following health department recommendations, we will eventually be able to move to the hybrid schedule, which will lead to expanding on-site access,” Runyan said.

“No date has been identified or cleared for that option yet.”

Buckeye Union High School District

According to Leslie Standerfer, “There are no new updates or announcements at this point. On our district website at buhsd.org, there is information about the distance learning taking place, on-site support for students who need it and meal services while in the distance learning phase.”

BUHSD includes Buckeye Union

High School, Youngker High School and the BUHSD Learning Center in Buckeye and Estrella Foothills High School in Goodyear.

Avondale Elementary School District

“All students will continue learning remotely and we will be monitoring the metrics weekly,” according to the district.

“All sites are open for on-site support for families in need of that and no changes to opening dates.”

Litchfield Elementary School District

According to Shelly Smith Hornback, an LESD spokeswoman, “Beginning Aug. 17, we will begin offering free on-site learning opportunities and support services for students who need a place to go during the school day.”

A district advisory notes, “Please be advised that free on-site learning opportunities and support services are not teacher-led classroom instruction. However, free on-site learning opportu-

nities and support services will include in-person support services such as student supervision and strategic support for students in need during standard school hours and may include paraprofessional support for students engaging in distance learning instruction.”

Benchmarks for reopening

On Aug. 14, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) launched a dashboard “designed to help school officials in Maricopa County determine if their communities are meeting reopening metrics set by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) and Arizona Department of Education (ADE).”

The tool is available at maricopa. gov/schooldashboard.

It allows school superintendents, principals, parents and others to view two weeks’ worth of data on the three metrics set by ADHS and ADE for opening schools:

• Case rate per 100,000 people: a way to standardize and compare the number of cases in specific populations (data available at county, ZIP code and school district levels).

• Percent positivity: a way to tell if there is significant community spread and whether enough testing is available (data available at county, ZIP code and school district levels).

• COVID-like illness: a way to monitor the percent of people who visit participating emergency rooms and

Services at Litchfield Elementary School District will be provided from 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Dreaming Summit Elementary School (13335 W. Missouri Avenue, Litchfield Park) and Verrado Middle School (20880 W. Main Street, Buckeye).

For more information, email sterr.r@ lesd.k12.az.us.

hospitals with COVID-19 symptoms before they are tested. This is the first sign that a decrease or increase in COVID-19 community spread is occurring (data available at the county level).

“Maricopa County Public Health’s role is to provide information to school administrators about the spread of COVID in their communities so they can make data-driven decisions to open schools in the safest way possible, and that’s what this dashboard is all about,” said Marcy Flanagan, executive director for MCDPH.

Data used to generate this report is based upon the benchmarks and thresholds for reopening established by the Arizona Department of Health Services. “This dashboard will allow decision makers to view their selected area’s overall risk level related to community transmission of COVID-19 and the recommended learning scenario, based on the most recent data,” said Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine, medical director of disease control for MCDPH.

Data will be updated weekly at 4 p.m. Thursdays.

EMCC gets ready for a different fall schedule

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

West Valley colleges are adjusting their policies for the fall semester, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At Estrella Mountain Community College, classes are scheduled to begin on the Avondale campus Saturday, Aug. 22.

EMCC is following the guidelines set by Maricopa Community Colleges. Within these guidelines, there will be four ways for students to learn: self-paced online learning, live online learning, hybrid models and traditional in-person classes.

Self-paced online classes will have weekly content and assignments that the student can complete at any time during the day, and the professor will be available when questions arise.

Live online classes will have set meet-

ing times during the week for lectures and interaction between students and their professors and peers. There will also be assignments due outside of class sessions.

Hybrid courses will have set online sessions and in-person sessions as well as assignments during the week.

Class sizes will be reduced for traditional in-person classes in order to support social distancing guidelines.

According to the site, masks will be required in all buildings and anywhere social distancing is not possible.

For students who do not have access to a laptop for online classes, the college has some that are available to be loaned.

For updates and more information, visit estrellamountain.edu.

Classes also begin Saturday, Aug. 22, at Glendale Community College with similar policies.

Estrella Mountain Community College and other West Valley colleges get ready for a very different fall, with various learning options. (West Valley View file photo)

PUBLIC NOTICE

INVITATION TO BID

Bids Due: October 1, 2020 – 10:00A

Project: Tiger Mountain Drive (Victory Phase 6) CFD Civil Improvements

Verrado ARC, LLC seeks qualified General Contractors, with a minimum A- General Engineering license, to submit sealed bids for the Tiger Mountain Drive (Victory Phase 6) CFD Civil Improvements which consists of, but is not limited to storm drain, concrete, paving, street lights (excl uding conduit between poles), signage & striping in accordance with the plans and specifications (the “Work”). The Successful Contractor shall be responsible for all coordination associated with the Work. Copies of the plans, specifications, bid documents and detailed information for this project will be available on August 21, 2020. All interested parties should contact Deana Burris at dburris@dmbinc.com to make arrangements to receive the bid documents electronically. Please reference the project name listed above in the email subject. The MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held on September 2, 2020 at 10:00AM Arizona Time. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the pre-bid meeting will be held via Zoom call. A meeting invitation will be sent to all interested parties. Sealed bids will be received until 10:00AM Arizona Time on October 1, 2020 at the DMB Verrado Offices – 4236 N. Verrado Way Suite A200, Buckeye, AZ 85396. Bids submitted after 10:00AM will not be accepted. Bids will be opened privately but read aloud at 10:05AM via Zoom call. A meeting invitation will be sent to all interested parties. Unless all bids are rejected, the Contract will be awarded within twenty one (21) days. The Contract will be awarded to the lowest qualified bidder that submits a complete and accurate bid. A complete and accurate bid will include all information requested in the bid documents. Every bid made by a Contractor pursuant to this Notice shall be accompanied by a surety bond for ten percent (10%) of the bid amount, listing Verrado ARC, LLC as the Obligee, as a guarantee that the Contractor will enter into a contract to perform the Work, or as liquidated damages in the event the Contractor refuses or fails to enter into the Contract with Verrado ARC, LLC upon award. Cashiers checks will not be accepted. The bonds will be returned to all Contractors whose bids are not awarded the Contract, and to the successful Contractor, upon execution of the Contract, and receipt of Payment and Performance bonds for the Work. The cost for providing Payment and Performance bonds shall be included in the bid submittal. A Payment and Performance bond will be required in the amount of 100% of the original Contract value for the duration of the Contract. All bidders shall be required to submit, with their bid proposal, a completed Certificate of Insurance evidencing their ability to meet the insurance requirements for this project. The Contractor shall carry property damage and public liability insurance and shall hold and save harmless Verrado ARC, LLC, DMB White Tank, LLC, the City of Buckeye and the Verrado District 1 Community Facilities District from any employer’s liability and from any and all liens for materials or labor in connection with this Work as specified in the bid documents. Any bids submitted without the bid bond, certificate of insurance and any other items as required in the bid documents will be deemed incomplete, and will be rejected. Verrado ARC, LLC reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to withhold the award for any reason Verrado ARC, LLC determines necessary and appropriate. Award of the successful bid shall be subject to approval by Verrado ARC, LLC or its repres entatives. Interested parties shall refer to the bid package and addendums for further information, or contact Deana Burris at dburris@dmbinc.com – reference Tiger Mountain Drive (Victory Phase 6) CFD Civils. No engineer’s estimate will be distributed.

Published: West Valley View / Business Aug. 19, 26, 2020 / 32598

INVITATION TO BID

Bids Due: October 1, 2020 – 10:00AM

Project: Tuthill (Acacia) Ph1 Path & Trail CFD Landscape

Verrado ARC, LLC seeks qualified General Contractors, with a minimum CR-21 Landscaping and Irrigation Systems license, to submit sealed bids for the Tuthill (Acacia) Ph1 Path & Trail CFD Landscape, which consists of, but is not limited to all work associated with installation of the landscape in accordance with the plans and specifications (the “Work”). The Successful Contractor shall be responsible for all coordination associated with the Work. Copies of the plans, specifications, bid documents and detailed information for this project will be available on August 21, 2020. All interested parties should contact Deana Burris at dburris@dmbinc.com to make arrangements to receive the bid documen ts electronically. Please reference the project name listed above in the email subject. The MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held on September 2, 2020 at 11:00AM Arizona Time. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic the pre-bid meeting will be held via Zoom call. A meeting invitation will be sent to all interested parties. Sealed bids will be received until 10:00AM Arizona Time on October 1, 2020 at the DMB Ve rrado Offices – 4236 N. Verrado Way Suite A200, Buckeye, AZ 85396. Bids submitted after 10:00AM will not be accepted. Bids will be opened privately but read aloud at 10:30AM via Zoom call. A meeting invitation will be sent to all interested parties. Unless all bids are rejected, the Contract will be awarded within twenty one (21) days. The Contract will be awarded to the lowest qualified bidder that submits a complete and accurate bid. A complete and accurate bid will include all information requested in the bid documents. Every bid made by a Contractor pursuant to this Notice shall be accompanied by a surety bond for ten percent (10%) of the bid amount, listing Verrado ARC, LLC as the Obligee, as a guarantee that the Contractor will enter into a contract to perform the Work, or as liquidated damages in the event the Contractor refuses or fails to enter into the Contract with Verrado ARC, LLC upon award. Cashiers checks will not be accepted. The bonds will be returned to all Contractors whose bids are not awarded the Contract, and to the successful Contractor, upon execution of the Contract, and receipt of Payment and Performance bonds for the Work. The cost for providing Payment and Performance bonds shall be included in the bid submittal. A Payment and Performance bond will be required in the amount of 100% of the original Contract value for the duration of the Contract. All bidders shall be required to submit, with their bid proposal, a completed Certificate of Insurance evidencing their ability to meet the insurance requirements for this project. The Contractor shall carry prop erty damage and public liability insurance and shall hold and save harmless Verrado ARC, LLC, DMB White Tank, LLC, the City of Buckeye and the Verrado District 1 Community Facilities District from any employer’s liability and from any and all liens for materials or labor in connection with this Work as specified in the bid documents. Any bids submitted without the bid bond, certificate of insurance and any other items as required in the bid documents will be deemed incomplete, and will be rejected. Verrado ARC, LLC reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to withhold the award for any reason Verrado ARC, LLC determines necessary and appropriate. Award of the successful bid shall be subject to approval by Verrado ARC, LLC or its representatives. Interested parties shall refer to the bid package and addendums for further information, or contact Deana Burris at dburris@dmbinc.com – reference Tuthill (Acacia) Ph1 Path & Trail CFD Landscape. No engineer’s estimate will be distributed.

Published: West Valley View / Business Aug. 19, 26, 2020 / 32600

NOTICE OF SALE OF MOBILE HOME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following item of personal property will be sold at public sale to the highest bidder, to satisfy a landlord’s lien: Mobile Home Make: TRAVELEZE Body Style: 8 X 35 Model Year: 1968 VIN: S18109 Date and Time of Sale: 9/9/2020 10:00AM Location of Sale: Space No. 604 HOLIDAY VILLAGE 701 S DOBSON ROAD MESA, AZ 85202 Name of landlord: HOLIDAY MHC, LP DBA HOLIDAY VILLAGE Amount of Claimed Lien: $1392.00 as of September 9, 2020 The Landlord reserves the right to bid at said sale and if its bid is the highest, to purchase said mobile home. The Landlord claims a lien against this property in the amount shown above as of the date shown above, for rents and other charges which have accrued through that date under a rental agreement covering the space occupied by the mobile home. The rental agreement giving rise to this lien was entered into by the Landlord and the following parties, owners of the mobile home, as tenants: Date of Rental Agreement: 7/11/2019 Name(s) of Tenant(s): Tammy North Owner of Record: Tammy Lynne North Said mobile home is located at the address shown above as the location of sale. The above described property shall be offered for sale pursuant to A.R.S. �33-1023. The proceeds from the sale will be applied to the cost of sale and to the lien, and any money that re-mains will be disposed of as provided in A.R.S. �33-1023. HOLIDAY MHC, LP DBA HOLI-DAY VILLAGE By: Cecilia A. Prendergast Title Administrator Dated: August 19, 2020 August 26, 2020 Published: West Valley View Aug 19, 26, 2020 / 32433

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

CITY OF TOLLESON PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION

CITY OF TOLLESON CITY COUNCIL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Tolleson Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a PUBLIC HEARING on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 at 5:00 P.M. and that the City of Tolleson Mayor and Council will conduct a PUBLIC HEARING during a Regular City Council Meeting scheduled on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 at 6:00 P.M., both via Zoom Conference at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5439720804 or via telephone at 1-253-2158782 (Meeting ID: 543 972 0804), for the purpose of:

Soliciting comments from interested parties in reference to Final Plat Application #20060001 as submitted by Yamileth Ponce with RCM Drywall, on behalf of the owner, Rigo Mendez with RCM Drywall, for a lot combination located at the northwest corner of 91st Avenue and Baden Street in Tolleson, AZ. The proposed site (APNs 102-52117 and 102-52-118A) is approximately 13,119 sq. ft. and is zoned CORE District. (RCM Drywall)

Please visit the City’s website at www.tolleson.az.gov/archive to view the agenda with detailed participation instructions.

Published in the West Valley View and West Valley Business on Wednesday, August 19, 2020 / 32586

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF TOLLESON CITY COUNCIL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Tolleson Mayor and Council will conduct a PUBLIC HEARING on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 beginning at 6:00 P.M. via Zoom Conference at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5439720804 or via telephone at 1-253-215-8782 (Meeting ID: 543 972 0804), for the purpose of:

Soliciting comments from interested parties in reference to Site Plan Application #20070001 as submitted by Robert Winton, on behalf of Chamberlin Development, to construct an 81,667 square foot spec warehouse distribution center to be located on the southeast corner of 86th Avenue and Van Buren Street – 8599 West Van Buren Street, Tolleson, AZ. The proposed site (APN 101-11-046A) is approximately 208,972 square feet and is currently zoned Light Industrial (I-1). (Chamberlin Deve lopment)

Please visit the City’s website at www.tolleson.az.gov/archive to view the agenda with detailed participation instructions.

Published in the West Valley View and West Valley Business on Wednesday, August 19, 2020. / 32587

OBITUARIES

Tracy Fae Taylor

Tracy Fae Taylor, age 53, of Goodyear, Arizona passed away on August 6, 2020 in Goodyear, Arizona. She was born on January 10, 1967 to Dennis Olson and Ileen Schnable in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Services are private at this time.

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

MiguelA.Benitez

MiguelAnjel"Mike"Benitez,age63 ofGoodyear,Ariz.,diedonTuesday, August4,2020,afterafour-weekbattle withCOVID-19illness.

MikewasbornonOctober20,1956, inChandler,Ariz.,toFidencioL.and CarmenAlvaradoBenitez.

HegraduatedfromAguaFriaUnion HighSchoolin1974,wherehewasamemberofthe NationalHonorSociety.Oneofhisfondestschool memorieswashowhestudiedforyearsandwonthe AvondaleSchoolConstitutionawardinthe8thgrade. MikeobtainedhiscourtreportingcertificatefromLegal ArtsofArizona,andlaterachievedthelevelofMerit Writer.

HiscourtreportingcareerbeganinAlliance,Neb.,later workingasafreelancereporterinPhoenix,andreporting asanofficialcourtreporterfortheUnitedStatesDistrict CourtandMaricopaCountySuperiorCourt.Mikealso obtainedaSeries7license,workingforabriefwhileas aninvestmentadvisorforEdwardD.Jones,andareal estatelicense,workingasarealestateagentinRenton, Wash.,forJohnL.Scott.

Mikemethiswife,DebraHartwig,inAlliance.They marriedinIssaquah,Wash.,andspentthemajorityof theirlifetogetherinthePeoriaandGoodyearareas.

Hewaspassionateaboutwatches,fountainpens, music,movies,golf,andfishing.Someofhisfavorite movieswereChinatownandTheGodfather;BenHur wasamustatEaster.Whetheritwassingingkaraokeor doinghisimprovcomedyforanyonewhowasnear,Mike wasevertheshowman.HesangMacktheKnifeata charitybenefitcompetitionandwon;latersingingit againat'ATasteofPhoenix.'

Mikewillberememberedforhisquickwitandgreat senseofhumor,butwhatwewillremembermostwashis fierceloyaltytohisfamilyandfriends.Hewasadevoted, caringhusbandandfather,aterrificbrother,son, grandfather,anduncle.Hewasadmiredbymanyandhas leftahugevoidinthelivesofmany.

Inadditiontohiswife,Debra,Mikeissurvivedbyhis children:JessicaReillyofPhoenix,BenjaminM. Benitez,D.O.andhiswifeJennieofHilliard,Ohio,and TimothyJ.BenitezofGoodyear;grandchildrenEmily Reilly,LeoandCharlieBenitez;hisbrotherJuanR. Benitez(Krista)ofPhoenix,sistersBelenB.Hernerof Phoenix,MaryE.Barr(Thomas)ofGlendale,Ariz., sister-in-lawMarthaBenitezofLaveen,Ariz.;andmany niecesandnephews.Mikewasprecededindeathbyhis parents,FidencioL.andCarmenA.Benitez,hisbrother StevenJ.Benitez,whoalsodiedofCOVID-19illnesson thesameday,andbrother-in-lawRobertR.Herner. Mike'sintermentwillbeprivateandheldatalaterdate. Acelebrationoflifewillbescheduledafterthecurrent healthcrisispasses. MemorialcontributionsmaybemadetoPhoenix Children'sHospitalorthecharityofyourchoice.

Rafaela Martinez

Rafaela Martinez, age 100, of Phoenix, Arizona passed away on August 10, 2020 in Phoenix, Arizona. She was born on October 24, 1919 to Jose Capitilo and Rita in Villa de Reyes, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Services were held on August 18, at Thompson Funeral Chapel, in Goodyear, Arizona. Burial services were held on the same day at West Resthaven Cemetery, in Glendale, Arizona.

Condolen ces for the family can be left at http://www.thompsonfuneralchapel.com/ obituary/rafaelamartinez/

Jesus Preciado

Jesus Gerardo Preciado, age 47, of Phoenix, AZ passed away on August 8, 2020 in Phoenix, AZ. He was born on January 24, 1973 to Manuel Preciado and Martha Gonzalez in Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico. Jesus was a loving brother, son, and a great friend. His passion was serving and helping which is how he will be remembered. He is survived by his brothers, Manuel A. Preciado Gonzalez, Flavio E. P reciado Gonzalez, and Francisco J. Preciado Gonzalez.

Services were held on August 13 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Rd. in Goodyear.

WarrenCarterGable

WarrenCarterGable,youngestson ofJackandEthelGable,passed peacefullyinhishomeonAugust8, 2020surroundedbyfamily.Hewas bornonJune28,1925andraisedin Arlington,Arizonaonlandthathis grandfatherdevelopedin1895,which hisfamilyoperatestoday.Heis precededindeathbyhiswifeAlice, hisbrotherJack,twosonsStanleyand Bobbyandseveralgrandchildren.

HeservedhiscountryinWorldWarIIasapilotinthe ArmyAirCorp.Carter,hisbrotherJackandfriends joinedthearmyrightafterPearlHarbor.Theywere allowedtostayandcompletehighschoolbeforetheyleft. Hewrotethearmyaletteraskingifhecouldstayfortwo moreweekstogatherhiscattleandtheysaidheneeded tocomerightaway.Hewasalifelongcowboyand rancher.HewasamemberofTheChurchofJesusChrist ofLatter-DaySaints.Heserveddiligentlyandlovedthe gospel.Heservedonseveralschoolboardsandthe ArlingtonCanalCompanyboardofdirectorsmostofhis life.

HeissurvivedbydaughtersLynnSmith(Stan),Sue AnnBurns,CindyGable,andsonsGaryGable (Carolyn),LarryGable(Kendra),20grandchildren,55 greatgrandchildrenand26great-greatgrandchildren.His favoritehorseswereJugandRed.Helivedalifeofmany adventuresandhadthebeststories.Heistheendofa generationandthelastoftherealcowboys.

ServiceswillbeheldonFriday,August14,2020at LouisB.HazeltonCemeteryat9o'clocka.m.Inlieuof flowers,thefamilyrequestsdonationsbemadeto WoundedWarriorProjectoranyothercharitythat benefitsveterans.

Alfredo Salazar

Alfredo Salazar, age 52, of Buckeye, AZ passed away on August 9, 2020 in Goodyear, AZ. He was born on January 14, 1968 to Luis Salazar and Agustina Ramos in Oaxaca, Mexico. Services will be held August 21 at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Rd, Goodyear, AZ at 7:00PM, a visitation will be held at 6:00PM. Burial services will be at August 22 at Louis B. Hazelton Cemetery, 23100 W Broadway Rd, Buckeye, AZ at 9:00AM.

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

Patricia Charlotta Kunst 77, of Goodyear, AZ passed away August 3rd , 2020. Born in Long Beach, CA.Patty was was cherished by so many relatives and friends and was dearlybeloved as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to so many. We called her Princess Patty, because she was our princess. She loved flowerson her table and certain things done just right. She was not only a mother but a best friend. She would do anything for her grandchildren. She had so many lifelong friends that she loved. She was so happy finding new friends in her C hurch and Mahjong group in Arizona. We are s o blessed to have so many wonderful family memories and we will cherish them forever. She always made or live s brighter with her smile.

Left to mourn is her daughters Michelle Harvey , Melinda Sifford and son-in-law Randall Sifford, She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren Marshall Harvey, Emma Sifford and Kate Sifford. Also surviving her sist er and brother-in-law Red and Pam Lago and man y n ieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by he r Father and Mother Melvin Swisher and Patricia Swisher and her wonderful and beloved husband Michael Marsh Kunst. Patty Loved her family so much and was so giving, kind and faithful until the end. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Grace Fellowship Church in Buckeye, AZ at 11 a.m.

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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.

Visit: obituaries.WestValleyView.com

Patricia Charlotta Kunst

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

EMPLOYMENT

Residential remolding, looking for general contracting skilled labored employees, call 623-707-3590

Immediate Openings for Direct Support Professionals

working with individuals with d evelopmental disabilities

$12.00 - $13.00/hr, paid training, benefits, FT & PT hours a vail. Apply online a t www.aztec1.org or in perso n M -F 8:00a-3:30p at AZTEC , 7 400 W. Olive, Ste. 24. 623-412-2888 or EOE.

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. Offering additional incentive pay through August 31st 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. Greenway Rd, Ste 140, Phoenix.

EMPLOYMENT

Reputable feed mill in Buckeye looking for a Full time bagging machine operator. Will need to be able to lift 50 lbs. stack bags and keep track of count. Forklift experience is plus. Full benefits offered along with 401k. We are ESOP employer. Candidates are welcome to apply online at www.westernmilling.com at the careers center. Walk ins are welcome.

Face masks required. Apply at 29700 W. Lower Buckeye Rd. Buckeye 602-251-3600

GARAGE SALES/ BAZAARS

Huge Moving Sale, Furniture, Lamps, T.V., Electronics, Decor, and much more, August 14th thru August 16th 2842 N. 143rd Ln, Goodyear

HANDYMAN

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LANDSCAPING SERVICES

O N B Specializes in landscaping and trimming. Also Concrete: patios, driveways, sidewalks, additions and more. Free estimates. 623-249-0610 - Robert Residential/Commercial.

LESSONS/TUTORING

GUITAR Leasons, with pro rock guitarist. West Valley Location or on line. www.brentbarkermusic.com Call 480-287-4441

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

Hoyer Lyft, wheelchair, walkers, and cane. New and slightly used, reasonable. Please call 623-536-6430

HOMES FOR RENT

Home for Rent, in Rancho Sante Fe, 2,000 sq. ft. home, 3 bedroom, den, 2 baths, kitchen, 2 living rooms, laundry room, 2 car garage. Call 623-6067852

WANTED TO BUY

$100-$500+ Cash for Junk Cars all "as is" autos! Good condition more $$$$. Best Prices! Fast, free pickup. 623-329-2043

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