West Valley View - West Zone - 08.24.2022

‘The Real Beav’ inspired his sitcom-writing dad’s scripts

BY JIMMY MAGAHERN West Valley View Contributing Writer

In “Bel-Air,” the hit 2022 reboot of the ’90s sitcom “The Fresh Prince of BelAir,” the comedy is reimagined as a gritty drama, recasting once beloved characters as deeply flawed individuals and replacing the reliable comic relief of the Carlton Dance with a recurring “Scarface” snort from the beleaguered Banks son.

Now imagine an even grittier reboot set in Bel-Air, this one a dramatic reworking of “Leave It to Beaver,” examining the real lives of the idyllic middle-class Cleaver family as they navigate the turmoil of the late 1960s.

That’s the between-the-lines story that runs throughout the recently published book “Not Really Hollywood,” where author Rick Connelly, who recently moved from Pebble Beach, California, to the PebbleCreek retirement community in Goodyear, details his wonder years as the real-life kid whose antics inspired the classic TV character Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver.

“I basically wrote it to give something to my grandchildren,” the now-73-year-old

said, FaceTiming from his home office. “Because they’ll probably still be watching ‘Leave It to Beaver’ when they get older, and may wonder about how their great-grandfather came up with all those stories.”

Rick’s dad was screenwriting legend Joe Connelly, who, along with writing partner Bob Mosher, created the archetypal family comedy that broke new ground by being told from the children’s point of view.

Even today, the show is most revered for how it authentically captured the way kids really talked in the late ’50s and early ’60s — and essentially still do today.

Turns out, the kids’ voices sounded authentic because Joe followed his own kids around with a notebook, capturing every juvenescent gem for story ideas and dialogue.

Author Rick Connelly, the real inspiration for Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver on “Leave It to “Beaver,” recently moved to the PebbleCreek retirement community in Goodyear. (Enrique Garcia/Contributor)

Decades before social media would create influencers out of ordinary adolescents, Joe was creating scripts for Beaver and Wally based on the dopey day-

to-day doings of a young Rick and his older

...continued on page 3

BY JORDAN ROGERS West Valley View Staff Writer

The HOPE Team, a nonprofit organization serving cancer patients, has received the Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Rep. Debbie Lesko.

Operating out of the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Phoenix, in Goodyear, the HOPE Team was established as a 501(c)(3) in 2009. The team’s mission is to take care of patients by taking cancer off of their minds, even if for a short while.

Over the last five years, the HOPE Team

has spent over $500,000 on patients by sending them to movies, dinners, sporting events, bingo, crafts and more. Friendships are made at every event.

“I can’t tell you how many bucket lists

HOPE...continued on page 4

Connelly

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brother Jay.

“That’s absolutely true about the notebook,” said Rick, although he confesses he didn’t actually watch the show much growing up. He only learned his dad was mining his minions for material about a year into the show’s six-season run, when he accompanied his dad and stars Jerry Mathers and Tony Dow on a photo op in Iowa.

It was there Joe asked young autograph seekers shunned by the stars, “Do you want to meet the real Beav?” That’s when Rick learned his antics around the house were being weaved into TV comedy gold.

Not that junior’s muse status allowed him to shrug off broken windows or accidentally drilled-through garage doors as mere script fodder. Did Rick’s golden goose ever try to wriggle out of a jam by saying, “Gee, Dad, wouldn’t this make for a great episode?”

“No!” Rick said, emphatically. “I mean, yeah, I was the kid who pulled the blinds down when I broke a window so my parents wouldn’t see it” — a dirty deed that became a “Leave It to Beaver” plot line. “And maybe my dad put up with me a little more than other dads would have because he could see the humor in things like that.” If anything, Rick would sometimes become annoyed by how his preteen tribulations always drew laughs around the dinner table.

“One time something came up and I remember storming away from the kids’ table in a huff, and as I was walking up the stairs I turned and said, ‘I’m not going to give you any more lines for your TV show!’” Rick said with a laugh.

“But I also wasn’t as wild when I was younger, which was when the show was going on. I got into more trouble as I got older.” Thankfully, he said, his dad stopped following him around with a notebook by then.

Dark side of the Beaver

Rick shudders to think what a gritty reboot of “Leave It to Beaver” might look like if his dad had continued to mine his and his brother’s antics as they grew up in wealthy Bel-Air during the latter half of the Swinging Sixties.

“There is no way that would’ve ever made the air!” he laughed. But readers can sample the anecdotes in his book and imagine their own plot lines.

In the pilot episode of the rebooted “Leave It to Beaver,” Ward Cleaver, now a widower, takes the boys on a vacation to Rome, where now 14-year-old Theodore, whose childhood nickname has begun to draw snickers from his peers, begrudgingly agrees to serve as altar boy at the Vatican. But the adolescent Beaver is more interested in eyeing the women on the Italian beaches, where he’s introduced to topless sunbathing.

Later in the season, Ward walks in on Beaver smoking a joint. But rather than punish him, Ward ridicules his now-teenaged son’s choice of cannabis, bragging about the grade-A hash he used to smoke in the Merchant Marines. Beaver instantly loses all interest in marijuana.

In another episode, Eddie Haskell, now revealed to be a dangerous delinquent with a checkered past, tries to talk Wally into joining his street gang, which he gallantly passes off to the Cleavers as a roving coin collector club.

All these scenarios might have made it onto TV screens if Joe had continued to document his personal family life in sitcom scripts — the real-life stories, minus the imagined comedic tweaks, are all in Rick’s book.

But at some point, the Connellys’ lifestyle veered far away from that of the middle-class Cleavers. By the mid-’60s, Joe and Mosher were successful screenwriters and producers, having added “The Munsters” to their string of hits, and the Connellys were living large on the secluded hills of Bel-Air.

“We had the maids, the butlers, the chauffeurs,” Rick said. “It was a different life — but very enjoyable!” Not surprisingly, the excesses of the era collided with the maturing Connelly kids’ excess wealth — and not always in a good way. Rick said his brother Jay, once the model for Wally, got into some “dark moments” he didn’t even want to include in the book, particularly since Jay is now gone. “We kept a lot of stuff with him out of the book.”

Ditto for the real Haskell, the model for Wally’s rascally best friend. Rick said the real-life counterpart for the TV troublemaker actually ran with the West LA gangs and was “a lot meaner” than Haskell. “But I can’t tell you his name,” he said. “All I can say is his dad was a sportswriter for the Los Angeles Times.”

If anything’s lacking in “Not Really Hollywood,” it’s that it strategically stops short of being a tell-all. Rick said

his own wife, Stephanie, has always laughed at the absurdity of the “Real Beav” moniker he’s been saddled with since before they wed. In a 1985 article for the Chicago Tribune, she called Mathers “the wimpy Beav” and said her husband was always “more into experimenting with life … getting into trouble, doing deviant things.”

That full story may never be told. “I wanted to keep it, let’s say, PG,” Rick said. “Putting in racy stuff to sell books wasn’t as important to me as just having the book for the grandkids.” Plus, he added, “I’m not sure the world wants to read that.”

Protecting the legacy

“Leave It to Beaver” is, after all, an iconic show that represents a certain idealized view of the American family. And the Connellys, as well as the family of Mosher, who died in 1972 at age 57 (Joe passed away at age 85 in 2003), are effectively protectors of that legacy.

“We still own the show, and it works out very well for both families,” Rick said. “We are in partnerships with what’s now called NBC Universal. They own 50% of the show, the Connellys own 25% and the Mosher family owns 25%. So, it keeps on going for us.”

As such, there’s little incentive to do anything that might taint the mythology of the show. And even previous efforts to recapture the magic of “Leave It to Beaver,” in the 1983 reunion telemovie “Still the Beaver” and the made-for-cable TV series “The New Leave It to Beaver” (1984 to 1989), have fallen short.

Rick is excited about the upcoming Rob Zombie-directed reboot of “The Munsters,” with surprisingly faithful character costuming and visual style — not to mention a planned PG rating. But he doesn’t expect that gritty dramatic reboot of “Leave It to Beaver” to happen anytime soon.

“I think they’re pretty well done with the remakes,” Rick said. “But let’s put it this way: The Beaver doesn’t go away. And like I said, when the grandkids are older, they’ll probably be still watching this show, which is tremendous for my dad.”

“Not Really Hollywood” by Rick

Connelly

Available on Amazon, Apple and Barnes & Noble, among other retailers

HAWK signal to be installed in Avondale

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

The city of Avondale is installing a HAWK (high-intensity activated crosswalk) signal that provides protected pedestrian crossing as a way to increase safety. Drivers will be able to continue through an intersection with a HAWK signal without stopping until the button is activated. The signal will be located on Avondale Boulevard approximately 600 feet south of Buckeye Road (MC85), near Littleton Elementary School.

The HAWK (high-intensity activated crosswalk) signal provides a protected pedestrian crossing as a way to increase safety. (City of Avondale/Submitted)

Work is scheduled to take place from Aug. 29 to Sept. 30 on Avondale Boulevard to accommodate the installation and powering of the new HAWK. Salt River Project (SRP) will provide power services to the signal. During this time, there will be no closures expected for the roadway.

Signs will be posted to alert the public, and motorists should use caution when driving by this construction zone. For questions or more information, please call 623-333-4218, or visit the city traffic and construction webpage at avondaleaz.gov/traffic.

The HOPE Team is a nonprofit that serves cancer patients. It operates out of Cancer Treatment Centers of America. (The HOPE Team/Submitted)

HOPE...continued from page 1

we’ve made for the cancer patients,” said Larry Atkinson, HOPE Team volunteer program manager.

For Atkinson, the award from Lesko is a huge deal. For all of the work that he and his team do, the recognition is appreciated.

has seen plenty of it. Seeing the strength in the HOPE Team’s patients causes him to want to work even harder.

“When I’m out there, I’m just enjoying being with the people that are so strong,” he said. “No matter male or female, they’re all warriors. They have the pain, but they don’t show up much. So, to me that’s a reward in itself.”

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Raj S. Rathee, M.D.

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Ingrid Gold, CNM

Britt Michie, RNC, MSN, WHNP, CNM

Jennifer Woodruff, RNC, MSN, WHNP

Anna Gomez, CNM

Yisel Carter, PA-C

Jessica Olano, CNM

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Kristen Watras, WHNP

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“They discovered the hole in my office where I fell through the floor when Debbie Lesko’s office called to say that we were getting the Congressional Recognition Award,” Atkinson joked.

“It just means a lot to me,” he added. “It’s a pat on the back. It’s knowing that a member of the House of Representatives wanted to thank the HOPE Team and went through the paperwork to have that recognition certified and presented.”

Atkinson said that there is no other organization in Maricopa County that does what the HOPE Team does. In fact, nationwide, patients “west of the Mississippi” travel to the Valley to receive what the nonprofit offers.

This year so far, the HOPE Team has raised more than $50,000 for its patients from groups like the Cleveland Guardians, Cincinnati Reds and Intel, as well as foundations and other sources.

“A lot of folks understand what we’re doing,” Atkinson said. “In today’s world, I would love to find one person that has never had cancer touch their life. … It’s either someone you know or a family member.”

This work is extremely rewarding for Atkinson. He said he’s been very fortunate in his life to not have had many close to him die due to cancer, but he

If he had to ballpark a number of patients served on a yearly basis, Atkinson believes it to be in the thousands. The patients, Atkinson said, often show their appreciation for what the HOPE Team provides by making their own donations.

“The patients love the hope team,” he said. “Many of our donations come from the patients themselves because they wanted to thank us for what we do, and they know how many patients we’re helping.”

Aside from a “square cost,” Atkinson said money from donations go directly back to the patients. When donating to the HOPE Team, Atkinson said that is something people should feel good about.

“Anybody who knows a cancer patient and sees what they go through and how weak they get, how financially strained they get, and so on, they would want to support an organization like us,” he said.

“When someone is making a donation, they should have that great feeling, knowing that they’re putting a smile on the cancer patient’s face being from Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska. They’re going to touch patients 10 times over.”

To donate to the HOPE Team, visit hopeteamaz.org.

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Markets in Valley cities, towns cooling differently

BY PAUL MARYNIAK West Valley View Staff Writer

The Valley housing market’s cooldown is occurring at different rates in different cities and towns, according to a leading analyst.

The Cromford Report earlier this month said that Queen Creek, Buckeye and Maricopa have become the most attractive areas for homebuyers to score a big deal while Phoenix is among the cities where buyers will have to wait a month before they can try to barter their way to a better deal.

The balance between supply and demand is now so tilted toward buyers that they could be now calling the shots in Buckeye, Queen Creek and Maricopa, the Cromford Report said, adding that it may depend on their experience in the real estate game.

“Here buyers now hold a distinct negotiating advantage and have a total of 2,243 active single-family detached listings to choose from,” it said. “This compares with 675 just three months ago.

“Because the majority of these areas

cater largely to first-time buyers who are less experienced, it can take a few weeks for these buyers to realize how strong a hand of cards they hold.”

The Cromford Report identified five other communities whether neither buyer nor seller has a distinct advantage in sale negotiations. They include Tempe, Chandler, Surprise, Peoria and Gilbert.

But it’s sellers in those five areas that need to be a little nervous, it added.

“Astute sellers will realize that the situation is very fluid and slipping away from them,” the report said.

“At the current rate of change, Gilbert will become a buyer’s market by the end of the first week in August. Tempe is only a day or two behind Gilbert, while Surprise, Chandler and Peoria will probably become buyer’s markets by mid-August.”

As for Phoenix, it’s in the same boat as Glendale and Mesa in Cromford Report’s opinion.

They “are seller’s markets but within a couple of days will enter the balance zone between 90 and 110. At the current

rate of change, they will become buyer’s market before the end of August. Goodyear and Avondale are two weeks behind these but unlikely to be still seller’s market by the end of next month.”

Four Valley cities — Fountain Hills, Paradise Valley, Scottsdale and Cave Creek — are in a different situation and, in a way, a different world from the average buyer and seller.

Those four communities are largely considered in the domain of luxury housing, where homes $1.5 million and above have not been tilting as sharply and quickly from a sellers’ to a buyers’ market as the rest of the Valley, according to the report.

However, the Cromford Report said Scottsdale is appearing, as it will soon join the overall trend dominating the rest of the Valley.

The Cromford Report also suggested bigger changes in the Valley’s housing market could occur before the end of the year.

“Prices have looked wobbly for the last two months,” it said. “But as buyers

start to flex their muscles, we should be prepared for more serious consequences. While we cannot forecast accurately several months out, it would be reasonable based on current trends to expect significant declines in average prices, median prices and average price per square foot by the end of 2022. Current trends can — and often do — change, so this is not baked in, just a reasonable base case.”

It also said the rapid growth in inventory might slow down soon but without a corresponding uptick in demand.

“What is going to re-start demand?” it asked. “The most obvious answers are that either interest rates have to come down or home prices have to come down. Either or both of these can increase demand so we can get back to a balanced market again.”

Builders apparently are slowly reacting to the changing housing scene.

“Single-family permits are now dropping in response to the weak demand but

Billy Moore Days seeks entries, noms for grand marshal

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Decorated floats, horse-drawn wagons, dance groups, local celebrities, community organizations, antique cars, school clubs, scouts and more will march down historic Western Avenue in Old Town Avondale for the annual Billy Moore Days Parade, presented by Avondale Toyota.

Businesses and local organizations are all invited to be part of this time-honored tradition, which takes place this year at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 15.

Billy Moore Days dates back to 1954 and celebrates the history of the area with a weekend festival, parade and carnival. The event is named for the pioneer who established a stage stop, general store and saloon in a place called Coldwater, which later became Avondale.

The parade fee is $25, with a registration deadline of Oct. 9. The parade is open to all types of entries this year — floats, marching bands, horse entries, car clubs, dance groups and more. Awards will be provided to the top parade entries. Register at avondaleaz.gov/rec.

The city of Avondale is also seeking nominations for this year’s Billy Moore Days parade grand marshal and junior grand marshal. These deserving individuals will be selected by the Billy Moore Days organizers and will be honored at the parade. The individuals represent the spirit of Avondale and are being recognized for what they bring to the community. Nominees must be an Avondale resident or have a connection to the city of Avondale by providing support, volunteering, or contributing to the improve-

Markets...continued from page 6

probably not as fast as they should,” the Cromford Report said.

It reported that as of June 30, 17,788 single-family building permits have been issued so far this year in Maricopa and Pinal counties year to date — down only slightly from 18,803 last year for the first six months of 2021.

“There were only 2,248 single-family permits issued in June, which is the lowest monthly total since May 2020,” the

ment or growth of the city of Avondale. To nominate a deserving grand marshal or junior grand marshal for the 2022 Billy Moore Days Parade, fill out a nomination form for each nominee online by 6 p.m. Sept. 7 at https://bit.ly/3C8w66w. Grand marshal nominees must be over the age of 18. Junior grand marshal nominees must be 18 years old or younger.

At the conclusion of the parade, everyone is invited to join the rest of the Billy Moore Days festivities on historic Western Avenue, which include a street fair and carnival. The entire event takes place Oct. 13-16. Visit the event website to learn more about the event. Admission is free; costs are associated with food vendors, saloon and carnival rides.

For questions, contact the city of Avondale Parks and Recreation Department at activeavondale@avondaleaz. gov or 623-333-2400. For more Billy Moore Days event information, visit avondaleaz.gov/billymooredays.

Cromford Report said.

At the same time, multifamily developers aren’t slowing down at all and are at what the Cromford Report called “a full-bore gung-ho status.”

In the first six months of this year, a record 8,640 multi-family permits were issued in Maricopa and Pinal counties.

“Last year there were 6,871 at the same point and that was considered a lot,” the Cromford Report said. “There were 1,890 issued in June, making it the fourth busiest month ever.”

A Rainbow Ladies member bends down to kiss her miniature horse. (File photo)

Abrazo West expects jump in robotic surgery procedures

BY WEST VALLEY VIEW STAFF

Abrazo West Campus continues to see an upward trend with joint replacement surgery, anticipating over a 50% increase in procedures using its Mako robot-assisted surgical system.

Millions of Americans suffer from joint pain and its hampering of daily life, but joint replacement surgery may offer a solution. Orthopedic surgeons at Abrazo West Campus are performing knee and hip surgeries with the assistance of the Mako robot’s computer-guided technology, which the facility introduced as an option for replacement procedures two years ago.

“The surgeon guides a robotic arm during the procedure, precisely positioning the implant according to the predetermined surgical plan,” said Lige Kaplan, M.D. “In studies, Mako robotic assistance has been shown to significantly improve implant position when compared with standard manual techniques. This is true for hip replacement, knee replacement and partial knee replacement.”

Robotic surgery offers many benefits, which includes reduced post-surgery pain, less blood loss, fewer and smaller scars, increased precision for more accurate joint replacements, faster recovery, shorter hospital stay and less risk of infection.

“Using the Mako we can create a 3D map of each patient’s individual anatomy,” said Christina Khoury, M.D. “The technology allows me to develop each patient’s individual surgical plan before entering the operating room. I can see the patient’s bone structure, identify the appropriate implant size, orientation and alignment for each patient’s unique anatomy. This can afford a more accurate placement of the implant, which can result in a better outcome for our patients.”

Orthopedic surgeons at Abrazo West Campus are performing knee and hip surgeries with the assistance of the Mako robot’s computer-guided technology.

(Keith Jones/Submitted)

Paula Davis of Glendale said she suffered from persistent knee pain for over 10 years and that the pain escalated to the point where she was unable to enjoy traveling. She underwent knee replacement surgery with Khoury in April and was so happy with the results that she has already scheduled to replace her other knee.

“I like to travel with family, and it got to the point over the last few years where I could really walk around anymore. It really significantly impacted my ability to enjoy life. So far it’s been really good after getting the new knee. I’m already looking forward to my next trip in November,” Davis said. “We are encouraged by the continued interest in robotic surgical technology at our hospital as evidenced by the growing

numbers of patients seeking advanced treatment options,” Abrazo West CEO Hans Driessnack said. “In addition to the Mako robot, Abrazo West’s surgical services also offer the daVinci robot for general surgery and Globus ExcelsiusGPS robotic platform for spinal fusion procedures.”

Abrazo Health is one of the largest health systems in Arizona and serves the greater Phoenix area in a number of disciplines. Programs include cardiovascular, neurosciences, orthopedics, spine and sports medicine, trauma and emergency services, surgical robotics, general surgery and maternity care. Its system consists of Abrazo West Campus, Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital, Abrazo Arrowhead Campus, Abrazo Central Campus, Abrazo Cave Creek Hospital, Abrazo Scottsdale Campus and Abrazo Surprise Hospital. It also has free-standing emergency centers, primary care and specialty physician practices, and graduate medical education programs. For more information, visit abrazohealth.com.

‘Lights… camera… Kyrsten…’: Sen. Sinema as cinema

BY J.D. HAYWORTH West Valley View Columnist

Whoever said that “presidential politics is two-thirds theater” and that the White House is a grand stage should have taken a closer look at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue.

There, on Capitol Hill, sits an institution called the “world’s greatest deliberative body” by some and the “world’s most exclusive club” by others.

You know it best by its proper name: the U.S. Senate.

Among the 100 who serve are more than a handful who readily embrace the spectacle, pomp and prestige that comes with the title of “senator.”

The late Robert C. Byrd of West Virginia often spoke of the Senate as if he had confused both time and place. That was not due to diminished cog-

nitive skills, though his Senate service spanned more than a half-century and concluded with his death in 2010. Instead, it was due to his inflated sense of status about both the institution and his own reputation there.

Byrd would employ his photographic memory and excessive sense of selfworth to recount episodes of political antiquity from the Roman Senate, creating word pictures recalling a group clad in togas, philosophizing and filibustering. That “Byrd’s-eye” view was cinematic in scope — a combination of “Ben-Hur,” “Gladiator” and (surprisingly — or not) “Animal House.”

A cinematic Senate? Better check the spelling… It’s really a “Sinematic Senate” these days, courtesy of Arizona’s Kyrsten Sinema. She came into the chamber with her own sense of Hollywood fashion and attitude, wearing thigh-high boots like Jane Fonda’s “Barbarella,” employing a persona akin to Sigourney Weaver in “Alien”

SMITH’S OPINION — Las Vegas Sun

and, most recently, enacting a controversial high-finance provision that would warm the cold, calculating heart of Michael Douglas as Gordon Gekko in “Wall Street.”

Sinema named a price for supporting Joe Biden’s inaccurately named Inflation Reduction Act, insisting on lower taxes — not for everyday Americans, but for the rich and famous.

“Sinema took Wall Street money while killing tax on investors,” reads the headline from the Aug. 13 article written by the AP’s Brian Slodysko, and prospective opponents read it as a real opportunity — including possible opponents from within Sinema’s own party.

While the Washington Press Corps is excessively accommodating to Democrats, most political reporters are somewhat befuddled by Arizona’s senior senator and the mega dollars stuffed into her political war chest by hedge fund managers and their ultra-wealthy associates.

Of course, the perceptions of a partisan press aren’t as important to Sinema’s political viability as are the reactions of the folks back home… and it is readily apparent that what Washington might collectively regard as Kyrsten’s “LBJ moment” isn’t a good look for her at all in Arizona.

What’s good for Wall Street is not necessarily good for Main Street or for your street… and it is absolutely objectionable on most streets within the city limits of Flagstaff, Tempe and Tucson.

But it isn’t just the indoctrinated as opposed to educated from our state-supported universities who take umbrage; concern is also found among those from the School of Hard Knocks, who have invested their own sweat equity in “bootstrap” businesses and “mom-and-pop” enterprises, only to see a Sinema-sponsored provision eliminate a proposed “carried interest” tax increase on well-heeled and pas-

sive private equity investors. So the high-finance crowd will enjoy a $35 billion exemption that won’t exempt other corporations… or several small businesses.

The recent AP article invites Arizonans of every political stripe to “connect the dots.”

“Sinema has long aligned herself with the interests of private equity, hedge funds and venture capital, helping her net at least $1.5 million in campaign contributions since she was elected to the House a decade ago. But the $983,000 she has collected since last summer more than doubled what the industry donated to her during all of her preceding years in Congress combined…”

Kyrsten’s calculation?

Sinema is comfortable collecting all that cash, because she considers it a “wise investment” that will help her stay in the Senate. Besides, the Democrat leadership there won’t desert her in the event of an intraparty challenge back home.

Talk is cheap… mounting a successful challenge to an incumbent senator isn’t.

Right now there’s a lot of chatter surrounding Rep. Ruben Gallego and the predictable progressive posturing featured on the thinning pages of The Arizona Republic… but when push comes to shove, will Congressman Gallego give up a safe seat in the House for a high-risk Senate run?

Nope.

Sinema will face a strong Republican challenge in 2024, but over the next two years, she will try to embody the predictable title of yet another Hollywood production.

“The Sure Thing.”

J.D. Hayworth represented Arizona in the U.S. House from 1995-2007. He authored and sponsored the Enforcement First Act, legislation that would have mandated enforcement of Federal Immigration Law in the 109th Congress.

Golf is a game of simple truth, unlike the rest of the 21st century

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ West Valley View Columnist

Let me begin by saying that this is not a column about golf, though it begins with a story involving golf. Or, to be specific, a thought about golf.

I was catching up with a buddy from high school, lamenting the state of mankind: politics, the workplace, gender relations, sports. Our friendship spans four decades, so we had a lot of complaining to do. We also share a golf addiction, so naturally the game was a topic.

Nongolfers, far more sane than actual golfers, having not subjected themselves to torturous years of chasing a dimpled white ball over hills, through deserts, into lakes and bushes, behind trees, and occasionally into holes in the ground, often ask golfers, “What the hell do you see in the game? It looks miserable.”

I’ve never had the perfect answer, until that talk. I haven’t experienced many epiphanies, but this was one. Golf is loveable for the exactly the same reason so many of us detest everything else, from MAGA loons vs. progressive scolds, the latest episode of “Love Island,” Hollywood preaching, Inflation Reduction Acts that won’t reduce inflation, election controversies, Supreme Court controversies, and even the PGA Tour vs. LIV Golf controversy.

Playing golf involves zero bull. Unlike virtually everything else in the 21st century.

You swing, you hit the ball, you count a stroke. Tally the strokes, that’s your score. The ball goes in the hole or not. End of debate.

Which is why after hours spent drenched in controversy, consuming, managing or writing about the news, it feels liberating to stand on a 108-degree golf course facing a 103yard shot from the fairway to the flag. You swipe at the ball with a wedge.

It comes to rest — somewhere. That’s one stroke.

Unlike, say, casting your election ballot. Which may be a vote or may not, depending on which political party you’re in and whether your preferred candidate wins the election. Or wishing a barista “good morning,” which risks using the wrong pronoun and creating a controversy where you only meant to be kind. Or deciding whether or not to pay an exorbitant sum to see Bruce Springsteen, because being ripped off by the voice of the working man would still get you in to hear “Born to Run” live — a bucket list item — but also subject you to a lengthy political rant, which you would absolutely file under B.

Not for Bruce or for Boss. But under B for “more bull.”

Over time, I seem to have shifted away from doing things that will likely deliver more such nonsense: scrolling social media, watching or reading the news, going to Fourth of July barbecue picnics, striking up a

conversation in line at Bashas’. Instead, I try to hit golf balls on all the days of the week that end in the letter -y. The sand shot rises out of the bunker and nestles beside the hole — or you skull it over a condo. Your putt spins around the hole and falls out. You tap in and add two strokes to your score. There’s a truth to the game that no longer seems to exist in so much of what we call life.

Like I said, this isn’t a story about golf. It’s a story about missing the days before all the bull, back when the news, actually real, was the only form of “reality TV.” Back when the phrase “Hey, guys” wasn’t grounds for a complaint to human resources. And back when someone could write “these truths are self-evident” and inspire a revolution, not a food fight on three different TV networks with two political slants.

And now, friends, back to the bull.

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

Business Briefcase

BY SCIANNA GARCIA West

The city of Buckeye recently celebrated a groundbreaking and grand reopening of two establishments that will add to the industrial operations facilities and contribute to the local Buckeye community.

Buckeye 77

Location: Southeast corner of Apache Road and Southern Avenue, Buckeye

The Southern Industrial Center, which officially broke ground July 14, will become the largest spec industrial building to be built in Buckeye. The building will include the develop-

ment of an expansive 1.2 million-squarefoot facility that will accommodate e-commerce, warehouse and logistics tenants in need of a regional distribution center in Buckeye, one of the fastest-growing industrial markets in Arizona.

Eric Orsborn, mayor of Buckeye, said this new development will not only benefit residents of Buckeye but also create more opportunities for growth within the city.

“Projects like Buckeye 77 provide more job opportunities for our residents and drive more retail, services, health care, restaurants and other amenities our residents need and expect from a full-service city.

“It will add to our impressive portfolio

of distribution and logistics companies relocating here and once up and running will give our residents more opportunities to live, work and play close to home,” Orsborn added.

Contour Real Estate, a leading privately held real estate and development company, and co-developer Miramar Industrial Partners acquired the approximately 77-acre site after it was sold by the Napolitano family.

Orsborn said the city of Buckeye can expect similar projects to arise as the population continues to grow.

Screws and Sparkles moved to a new, larger location this summer. (Screws and Sparkles/Submitted)

“We are currently anticipating more than 11 million square feet of industrial space to be built in Buckeye over the next three to five years, and I think that’s a conservative number considering how much is in the pipeline right now.

W Camino San Xavier #D113 Glendale, AZ 85308 lisa.baker@huntrealestate.com www.MoveToGlendaleAZ.com (602) 633-5525

Buckeye 77 is expected to be complete by summer 2023.

Screws and Sparkles

Location: 343 Monroe Avenue, Buckeye

Locally owned and operated Screws and Sparkles held its grand reopening of a larger location July 8 in the heart of Downtown Buckeye.

Owned by shop owner Sophia Martinez, Screws and Sparkles is a vintage, upcycled and handmade shop supporting local Buckeye vendors and artists.

With over 30 creatives, customers can find a variety of home décor pieces such as handmade soap, wall art, children’s apparel and upcycled one-of-akind pieces, perfect for a gift or a new decal in the home.

The new location also features Degino’s coffee bar, another business local to Buckeye.

Screws and Sparkles began when Martinez had a dream to open a shop where stay-at-home moms and local creatives could build their home-based business and pursue their dreams.

With her husband Arcenio’s support and encouragement, they opened the doors to a tiny shop on main street named Screws and Sparkles.

Since its opening, Screws and Sparkles has become much more than a shop. In addition to providing opportunities for home-based businesses, Sophia and Arcenio believe in the revitalization of Downtown Buckeye.

Screws and Sparkles often hosts pop-up events in the shop, which are announced through the company’s social media pages.

For more information, visit screwsandsparkles.com.

Have an item for Business Briefcase?

Please email your business news and tips to Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at Christina@TimesLocalMedia.com

Valley View Staff Writer

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Y0141_22577EN_M

Social media helped 2 businesses survive the pandemic

BY TROY HILL Cronkite News

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge for small businesses that previously relied solely on in-person interactions. But thanks to a different kind of viral experience, two Valley businesses aren’t just surviving, they’re thriving.

Their secret? TikTok, the social media app that hosts short-form videos

ranging from 15 seconds to 10 minutes.

Blanca Ulloa and Allie Dziewulski founded their Goodyear event rental company in March 2020, just before the pandemic was declared. Jump Into Bliss focuses on bounce houses for high-end events for children and adults, including weddings and bachelorette parties.

With stay-in-place orders in effect, Ulloa and Dziewulski had little to do but engage with social media, and after

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a few months, they focused their marketing strategy on social media, including TikTok.

“When we first started, our views were like one to 100 if we were lucky,” Ulloa said. “Then one day we woke up and we had a video hit a million views.”

That video — a 30-second timelapse of a bounce house being set up — went viral four months after Ulloa and Dziewulski started on TikTok.

At the start of the pandemic, they were getting almost no business, but after the video, inquiries came in daily. Now, they’re fully booked through October 2023.

Party business takes off

After encouragement from friends and family, Jessica Camacho started Decor by Jess, a small party-decoration business, in 2019. Her husband and sisters are the only other employees of the Glendale business.

Camacho jumped onto social media and tried to market on Facebook, OfferUp and Instagram, where she had moderate success. When the pandemic hit, Camacho turned to TikTok, which she credits for the business’ success.

“A few of my videos went viral, so I think that helped a lot. TikTok helped a lot,” Camacho said.

The videos she has posted are usually fast-paced highlight reels or time-lapses of decorations. She also takes advantage of popular trends and audio on the platform. According to one of Camacho’s TikToks, Decor by Jess now is having to turn clients away.

Camacho said other businesses, such as the food truck Naughty Tacos, which started posting around the same time, experienced similar success on the platform.

“I do think their accounts have grown, and it’s helped their business,” she said. “I’ve seen that happen a lot.”

Social media use booms

Social media use has become more common across all demographics, said Liesel Sharabi, an assistant professor at ASU’s Hugh Downs School of Human Communication who primarily studies the social uses of technology.

“That’s especially true during the pandemic because people were spending a

lot of time at home,” Sharabi said. With this increase in social media use, especially during the pandemic, Sharabi said it afforded many businesses some “really unique marketing opportunities.”

According to Business of Apps, TikTok had 1.2 billion users in the final quarter of 2021 and is expected to hit 1.8 billion by the end of 2022.

Kelsey Sidowski, who lives in the West Valley, found Jump Into Bliss on TikTok. Looking to rent a bounce house for her son’s 10th birthday, she researched its other social media accounts to determine whether the business was legitimate.

“I think that legitimate businesses have more than just a TikTok,” Sidowski said. “I think digging a little deeper just to see Instagram and Facebook-wise, or anything else like that, is definitely better off than just some random TikTok video.”

Sidowski said she has worked with several other businesses she found on TikTok, but not all her experiences were positive. That’s why she researches companies on other platforms.

She has rented bounce houses from Jump Into Bliss for four events: a bachelorette party, a friend’s birthday party, and two parties for her children.

“It’s been awesome just watching them expand so much,” Sidowski said. “It seems like they are really just taking the party planning by storm.”

For more stories from Cronkite News, visit cronkitenews.azpbs.org.

Blanca Ulloa, left, and Allie Dziewulski say Jump Into Bliss’ pink bounce house is especially popular for bachelorette parties.

(Troy Hill/Cronkite News)

Organizational AD ready for inaugural school year

BY ZAKKARY BROG West Valley View Staff Writer

After years of development, Sequoia Pathfinder Academy at Verrado Way is beginning its inaugural year in operation.

With a brand new school comes unique challenges, but organizational athletic director Robb Floco is up to the task and has a plan.

“We’re going to be (grades) nine through 11 this year,” Floco said. “This year is all about building a foundation. Year two will be about building a strong competitive culture. In year three, we should go to the AIA and have the foundation to represent the West Valley in a competitive way. I would say we have a three-year plan as we increase enrollment and go (grades)

nine through 12.

“We want to build our programs from the base. Our largest population of student-athletes right now are ninth graders. We want to get some experience, but we’re not going to throw them to the wolves. We’re realistic, within our organization, that it takes a process to build our presence in our community that we’re going to be offering these programs.”

Floco is convinced that the brandnew facilities on offer to student-athletes will draw prospective students to the school.

“It’s unbelievable the facilities that we’re going to offer here on the west side of Phoenix,” he said. “I think our location is unbelievable, as far as attracting students.

“We’ve put together a turf football field, which on the west side is not as normal as different areas of the Valley. We’ve got a great basketball and volleyball facility that’s going to house two sports playing at one time with a divider. Two full courts will allow our student-athletes to have availability. Our weight room has unbelievable equipment that’s going to allow our student-athletes to build that foundation, mental toughness and physical strength so that they can perform at a high level.”

Floco has been working in education for 20 years and has served as a dean, assistant principal and athletic director at various schools. He’s excited to utilize his skills to bring a quality educational experience to student-athletes as well.

“Our school is going to offer a well-rounded student-athlete experience,” Floco said. “One of our top programs is our STEM program. … We’re hoping to be part of the elite academic and athletic programs on the west side of Phoenix. That’s our goal. That’s why we invested in our facilities. With the growth that is happening on the west side of Phoenix and with our availability right off the freeway, we just think we’re going to create a great experience for our student-athletes.

“We want to make sure that we create the foundation for them to move to a four-year traditional (school). We also partnered with West-MEC and their CTE program. That way, they can have a great experience with trade programs as well.”

Teen Manga Club

AUG. 24

4:45 p.m., free, 623-936-2746, tolleson.az.gov

be a mermaid, tail and all. Ideal for children ages 4 through 8.

e West Valley View publishes on Wednesday. e weekly calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue.

Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the View’s coverage area, which is south of Northern Avenue, west of Loop 101, plus all of Tolleson, extending to Estrella in the south and Tonopah in the west. Events such as concerts and theatrical performances that fall outside the View’s circulation area will be considered because there are no concert halls or theater venues within our boundaries.

Weekly calendar items print on a space-available basis. e only way to guarantee that an item will print is to purchase an advertisement.

Submissions must reach our office by 4 p.m. Wednesday to be considered for the following Wednesday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, christina@TimesLocalMedia.com

Eon Monday Night Meetup MONDAYS

No matter what stage someone is at in their life, there’s always more to learn in business. Each Monday night, share ideas, discuss business experiences and look at trends with other like-minded individuals.

Coyote Branch Library, 21699 W. Yuma Road, Buckeye, 6 to 7 p.m., free, buckeyeaz.gov

Needle & Thread

AUG. 24

Work on something crafty and spend time with fellow crafters at the library. Bring your own materials and co ee mug. Instruction books are provided for those without something specific already in mind. There’s no registration, so join in on the fun whenever you like. Civic Center Library, 11350 W. Civic Center Drive, Avondale, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., free, 623-333-2602, avondalelibrary.org

Meet up with other teens and discuss manga both recent and old. Suggest your favorites to others, or find something new and exciting from those with similar interests.

Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, 3 to 4 p.m., free, tolleson.az.gov

Pop! The Science of Bubbles

AUG. 24

Learn about the strange and interesting science of bubbles and how there’s more to them than meets the eye. Concepts such as elasticity, surface tension, evaporation and geometry all come to play with each bubble you make. Make bubbles smaller than the tip of your pinky or so big you can stand inside.

Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington Street, Maricopa County, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., ticket prices vary, azscience.org

Teen Art Class

AUG. 25

Learn to unwind by making art with fellow teens at the Tolleson Public Library. Art supplies and weekly inspiration are provided to all participants, with the only limits being the creative energy of the artist.

Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, 4 to

Beginner Fencing

AUG. 25

Learn more about one of the first Olympic sports and test your reflexes with the blade. Gain an elementary understanding of footwork and bladework, as well as the unique strategies and rules that make fencing so engaging.

Sundance Recreation Center, 21765 W. Yuma Road, Suite 106, Buckeye, 6 to 7 p.m., buckeyeaz.gov

Code Club

AUG. 26

Teach kids 8 and older the basics of computer science and learn an increasingly relevant skill in the modern world of technology. Activities are hands-on and interactive, and will allow kids to get experience programming robots, making games, and experimenting with animations.

Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street, Tolleson, 4 to 4:45 p.m., free, 623-936-2746, tolleson.az.gov

Mermaid Training

AUG. 27

Experience the magic and wonderment of a mermaid’s life as this class takes kids through the ins and outs of what it’s like to

The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., wigwamarizona.com

Loss of a Spouse

AUG. 27

This two-hour seminar will help you cope with the loss of a spouse. Session includes a video, sharing time, and a booklet to take home. Light refreshments.

Christ Presbyterian Church, 925 N. Sarival Avenue, Goodyear, 10 a.m. to noon, free, RSVP to Carol at 623-340-9205 or cphillips02@ cox.net

Mad Science Workshop

AUG. 27

Watch as a brilliant mad scientist gives handson demonstrations and shows o a variety of insane experiments. Teach the kids about science and spark their imagination while taking an hour o to yourself. Includes a kids menu item with the entry price.

The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, 5 to 6 p.m., $15 per child, wigwamarizona.com

Wigglers and Walkers

AUG. 29

Babies, toddlers and their caretakers are

invited to come to the library for rhymes, short stories and language enrichment. Boost their mental development and give the kids some playtime afterward.

Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale, 11:15 a.m. to noon, free, avondalelibrary.org

Device Advice Appointments

AUG. 30

Everyone struggles with supposedly basic technology at some point in their life, whether it be due to a new phone, a software change or countless other issues. The library is o ering help figuring out technology person to person in scheduled appointments for those having trouble.

Civic Center Library, 11350 W. Civic Center Drive, Avondale, 1 to 3 p.m., free, 623-333-2602, avondalelibrary.org

AUG. 31

Fitness Fusion

Bring your yoga mat and get ready to tone your core at The Wigwam. Yoga, Pilates, Baar and HIIT are all well-established regimens designed to help train flexibility and strength while tightening the core muscles. Learn the fundamentals of body control and breath.

The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, 6 to 7 p.m., free admission, wigwamarizona.com

Buckeye employee is one of Arizona’s most influential business women

BY SUMMER AGUIRRE West Valley View Staff Writer

ABuckeye empoyee has been named one of the state’s most influential women in business.

Economic Development Director Suzanne Boyles is one of 36 finalists of the 2022 Most Influential Women in Arizona Business award. They will be recognized at an award ceremony and dinner on Aug. 25 at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix.

Since 2018, she has contributed to Buckeye’s economic boom with her passion for the community and efforts in its health care and industrial developments.

“Suzie’s passion and drive have changed Buckeye’s economy for the better,” Deputy City Manager Dave Roderique said in a statement. “Her attitude towards work and team effort is part of what makes Buckeye one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.”

The finalists for the award are selected from a pool of approximately 1,500 nominees. They are chosen by an editorial board of 12 previous awardees, who are undis-

closed to protect the nomination process.

“When I first got the email and found out that I was one of the honorees, I did a double take,” Boyles said. “It’s an honor just because there are so many amazing people in the industry; for them to think of me, it’s just an honor and kind of surreal.”

Born and raised in West Valley, Boyles attended Western New Mexico University for both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration before relocating back to her hometown.

“Being an Arizona native, it’s definitely personal to see the growth of the West Valley, but Buckeye is extra special to me because this is actually where I got my start in economic development as a career,” she said. “I started in economic development here in 2013, and that’s where I learned about economic development. So to be back and be in the director role and really being able to form the vision of the future is personal to me.”

A part of Boyles’ role is to create and expand upon different strategies for attracting and retaining businesses, expan-

sion in small-business support and entrepreneurship reports for the department.

Under her leadership, the economic development department has significantly helped Buckeye’s growth by attracting an influx of new business to the area, including KORE Power, Five Below, Funko and Ross Distribution Center.

Ultimately, this has introduced up to 5,000 new job opportunities for residents.

“Our job is to make sure that the residents have the services and the employment opportunities to live, work and play here in Buckeye, so it’s really exciting to see the commitment of that many jobs to the community,” Boyles said.

A point of pride in her work and collaboration is the Buckeye Healthcare Initiative, a strategy created around three years ago to expand the city’s health care sector and identify existing assets. It highlighted gaps in service and needs that residents were having to leave the city to obtain.

“The reason why I’m so excited about it is we were so successful that it resulted in both Banner Health and Abrazo com-

mitting to building full-scale health care campuses in Buckeye,” she said. “Those campuses include medical office buildings, two acute care hospitals and other health care services. So, it’s just really exciting to see that substantial commitment result out of that initiative.”

Buckeye has over 1 million square feet of new retail in the community either underway or committed, and is working on more restaurants and entertainment to address services that are currently underserved and present more jobs for locals. The city is also seeing a large amount of industrial growth and interest, with about 40 million square feet of development in progress.

“It’s exciting because there’s just so much room for growth in Buckeye. We’re going to be growing for decades. It’s an economic developer’s ideal career — we’ll get to do fun things for a very long time,” Boyles said. “As Arizona’s largest city by land area, we’ve got a lot of land to build. I’m honored to really be a part of that.”

King Crossword

GO FIGURE!

by Linda Thistle

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

EVEN EXCHANGE

by Donna Pettman

SUDOKU

Place

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.

SCRAMBLERS

Unscramble

623-535-8439

obits@timespublications.com

Deadline: Thursday 5pm for next week

Patricia Daniel

John Robert Westphal, Lt. Col Ret

Abraham Joseph Mendoza

Abraham had many titles, he was a son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend. Most importantly a believer in the Lord and a true patriot veteran! He enjoyed baseball as a child. His 1997 West End league team, won Az District! A few years after high school, he went into the Army. Became a paratrooper and Sargent Mendoza! Served in the Army eight years including foreign war in Iraq and Afganistan. Studied at Grand Canyon University obtained Masters /Business Administration. A supporter of La Mission Church and their Royal Rangers program.

He was a unique, kind, creative, intelligent, compassionate, helpful, and funny at times!

He is survived by his parents, Benjamin and Martha Mendoza, a sister Misty Mendoza, brother Benjamin A. Mendoza and three nephews, Isaiah Mendoza, Benjamin Mendoza lll, Antonio Mendoza and a large extended family. We love your memories, we will miss you! See you again someday, Abram!

Patricia Daniel of Avondale, Arizona died July 31, 2022 at the age of 82. She was born January 17, 1940 n Cincinnati, Ohio to Allen Jenkins and Helene Schmitt.

Services are pending.

To leave the family condolences, please visit: www.thompson funeralchapel.com/obituary/ patricia-daniel

Stephen Osborn

Stephen Osborn, age 71, of Avondale, Arizona died July 29, 2022. He was born January 9, 1951 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Charles Osborn and Grace Callaway. Services were private.

To read the full obituary and leave the family condolences, please visit www.thompsonfuneralchapel. com/obituary/stephen-osborn

Dugan Crowell

Dugan "Doug" Crowell, aged 92, of Goodyear, Arizona died August 1, 2022. He was born January 17, 1930 in Tomahawk, Wisconsin to Kelly Crowell and Almeda (Fields) Crowell. Dugan was a veteran of the United States Army.

Services are being planned for a later date.

Honored family patriarch, John “Westy” Westphal made his last take off on July 31st, 2022, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born on February 14th, 1931, in Walla Walla, Washington to Raymond and Aileen (Tweed) Westphal. The family moved back to their farm in Salem, Oregon where he was raised. The family reorganized during World War II with John’s mother marrying Dr. H.A. Perlmutter and moving to Berkeley, CA. Graduation from Berkeley High School in 1948 was followed by three years at College of the Pacific in Stockton, CA. With the Korean War in progress and the Draft Board eminent, Westy decided to join the U.S. Air Force.

of Oklahoma. An assignment at Fort Carson, Colorado as Air Force Liaison with the Army, added to the adventure. Luke AFB was next for him as Commander of the 311th Fighter Squadron, flying the F-4 Phantom jet. Next it was overseas for the entire family to Okinawa, Japan and then finally back to Luke and retirement after 30 years of military service.

Westphal decided to try the civilian job market and landed a position with the Maricopa County Management Analysis Section and then as a Right-of-Way Agent for the Highway Department. From there he had a stint with the Arizona Department of Revenue followed by a Governor-appointed position on the State Board of Equalization from 1993-2003.

To leave the family condolences, please visit: www.thompson funeralchapel.com/obituary/ dugan-doug-crowell

Westphal entered the USAF in 1951, graduated from Pilot Flying School in 1953, and was immediately posted to Korea as an F-84 Fighter Pilot. Perhaps this might account for the fact that the war ended three weeks after his arrival. While on his first tour of duty at Luke, he was an F-100 Instructor Pilot and managed to meet and marry the lovely Denise Byerly from Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico. Daughter Tamara arrived in time to accompany her folks to Itazuke, Japan. While in Japan, another daughter, Dana, joined the family in time to return for another tour at Luke. Westphal then served in Southeast Asia accumulating the usual gongs and whistles (John’s term for medals) awarded for combat exposure. He then proceeded to further his education at Armed Forces Staff College (Norfolk, VA), San Diego State University, and a Master’s from University

In addition to fishing with his buddies, Westy loved playing golf at the WigWam Golf and Country Club where he also served as Treasurer.

He had a unique and special relationship with each of his children and grandchildren and was the consummate role model. His grace and humor will be missed by his survivors: beloved wife of 65 years Denise, and his two loving children Tamara (Alan) Bowman, and Dana (John) Marsden. Four Grandchildren: Sarah, AJ, Oliver and Benjamin and three great grandchildren and all of his many nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. Visit thompsonfuneralchapel.com for online condolences. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the USO at P.O. Box 96860 Washington DC 20077-7677.

Student Chronicles

Know a student who’s doing something remarkable? Tell us about it!

Email Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at christina@timeslocalmedia.com.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) held its first in-person graduation ceremonies since 2019 during Spring Grad Walk 2022, an innovative experience designed to accommodate thousands of graduates and guests while protecting the health and safety of the university community. More than 3,300 graduates from the classes of 2020, 2021 and 2022, along with their families and guests, attended Grad Walk over the course of six days (May 17-22). The event took place at the College Park Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, with graduates selecting from multiple time slots to cross the stage and receive

individual recognition.

Worldwide, more than 13,600 graduates from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as 32 countries and territories, earned UMGC degrees during the 2021-22 academic year.

UMGC also holds graduation ceremonies in Europe and Asia for military service members and their families serving overseas. The following local UMGC students graduated:

• Nestor Alan Delgado of Litchfield Park, Associate of Arts.

• Tonia Pendleton-Jenkins of Buckeye, Bachelor of Science in business administration.

• Larissa Breanna Fifield of Buckeye,

Bachelor of Science in psychology.

• Brianna Zazueta of Litchfield Park, Bachelor of Science in human resource management.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary, UMGC was established in 1947 to serve adults in the workforce. Today, UMGC enrolls some 90,000 students annually, offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, as well as certificates in more than 125 fully online, hybrid and face-to-face programs and specializations.

UMGC has a long history of innovation in reaching students where they are, including as a pioneer of internet instruction, piloting its first online classes in 1994. The university has received numerous awards for its groundbreaking work in developing fully online degree programs, includ-

ing in high-demand fields such as cybersecurity, business, data analytics, health care and education.

UMGC now offers classes to military service personnel and their families at more than 180 locations in more than 20 countries. More than half of the university’s students are active-duty military personnel, their families, members of the National Guard, and veterans.

SWBT offers 1st adaptive dance program in Southwest Valley

BY SCIANNA GARCIA West Valley View Staff Writer

The Southwest Ballet Theatre, located in Avondale, has initiated its new adaptive dance program.

The first of its kind in the Southwest Valley, the class mirrors the successful program introduced by the Boston Ballet.

The program is specifically designed for children between the ages of 5 and 17 with special needs and will not only teach students the techniques of ballet, and some ballet exercises, but also promote creative movement and improvisation to encourage self-expression and joy while focusing on bilateral coordination, balance and rhythm.

“When I saw that the Boston Ballet was offering a teacher certification for adaptive dance, I didn’t hesitate to invite our teachers to participate,” said Tasha Stramecki, Southwest Ballet Theatre (SWBT) artistic director.

“The more of our community we can touch with the gift of dance, the more we are fulfilling our mission to touch lives in the West Valley with the beauty and grace of ballet. Simply, the world is a better

place when we all dance. Dance uplifts the spirit and transcends the body.”

As a certified adaptive dance teacher, Sydney Walker will lead the inaugural SWBT adaptive dance program alongside Melissa Marshall, a youth physical therapist and longtime dancer with SWBT.

In addition to the adaptive dance program, SWBT is expanding its community outreach by offering open daytime classes with homeschool families in mind.

The open-class format will provide both primary ballet and beginning ballet instruction for homeschool families who would like to add the beauty and expression of ballet to their homeschool curriculum.

The new adaptive program was planned to begin last year but is now starting up at the Estrella Mountain Community College after SWBT has finally recovered from the effects of COVID-19.

The goal of the program is to give an opportunity to special needs students and their parents to have special attention classes where children can receive a specific type of teaching to accommodate them.

“Dance is great for all students, children and adults. It’s good for your emotional well-being, your psychological well-being and your physical well-being. The more people that can get out there and be able to participate in that, it makes our community stronger and a better place,” Stramecki said.

“We’re just bringing it to as many people as possible within our means and our structure, and we’d love to be able to expand more every year. This was a way that we could expand in one way and reach out to the broader community to include as many people as possible. We wanted to add that adaptive dance so students that need a little extra attention or the occupational physical therapy aspect of it can get that the right way,” she added.

The certification process to teach the adaptive dance program covered different types of disabilities and approaches to teaching, while also focusing on the students’ love for dance.

“We focused on teaching the dancers to find that joy and expression, because we want them to truly love what they’re

doing and find that love for dance. The training was really this all-encompassing program where I was able to learn a full-rounded experience,” Walker said.

For the adaptive program, students will have the option to perform in the recitals presented by the theater.

Walker said that with the kids and their needs in mind while designing the class, she’s excited to see their performances and growth while also providing the community with an opportunity to witness it as well.

“What I’ve always loved seeing is how at the Southwest Ballet Theatre, we’ve had dancers, big and small, and it’s always been a class community performance. Now we’re reaching the point to being more all-inclusive.

“I’m excited to see that because we will be able to truly involve everyone in our classes and performances, and it feels like it’s come full circle in executing our mission. I’m excited to see that come to light here, as we’re finally able to fulfill it.”

For more information, visit swbtballet. org.

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ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION HAVE BEEN FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE ARIZONA CORPORATION COMMISSION FOR I Name: TONY’S TRANSMISSIONS LLC II The address of the registered office is: 710 N 91st Ave, TOLLESON, AZ 85353. The name of the Statutory Agent is: Anthony Fermo Page. III Management of the Limited Liability Company is vested in a manager or managers. The names of each person who is a manager and each member who owns a twenty percent or greater interest in the capital or profits of the limited liability company are: MEMBER: Anthony Fermo Page, 710 N 91st Ave, TOLLESON, AZ, 85353 Published: West Valley View, Aug. 10, 17, 24, 2022 / 48391

PUBLIC NOTICES

ST JOHN’S IRRIGATION DISTRICT ANNUAL

Call of Election - Notice is hereby given to all qualified electors of the above district that an election, to fill one vacancy on the Board of Directors created by the expiration of a (3) year term that will be held on the 8th day of November 2022. In order to vote in this election, a qualified elector must own real property located within the district’s taxable boundaries at least 90 days prior to the election. Persons desiring to become a candidate for the position may obtain nomination petitions and nomination papers from: Karena Brown 623210-2734- 10253 W. Southern Ave. Tolleson, AZ 85353. For a person’s name to appear on the ballot, nomination petitions and nomination papers must be received at the above address. Voters may, at time of election, write in a ca ndidate’s name of their choosing who has not submitted a timely nomination petition but who has submitted a nomination paper to the district office listed above before August 21st 2022. Dated the 25th day of July 2022.

Public Notice of Closing of Waiting List for ALL Bedrooms

FSL VIANNEY VILLAS APARTMENTS

NOTICE OF CLOSING OF THE PROJECTBASED SECTION 8 WAITING LIST FOR ALL BEDROOMS

PUBLIC NOTICE

Effective August 26, 2022, Vianney Villas Apartments, 750 S 4th Street, Avondale, AZ 85323, will CLOSE its Section 8 Waiting List for all Bedroom Sizes. No applications will be accepted for the onebedroom units. Public Notice will be provided when Vianney Villas re-opens the Waiting List for the specific bedroom sizes.

HUD regulations do not require a public hearing when opening and closi ng the Waiting List.

Questions may be directed via email to ccampbell@fsl.org.

The Waiting List is closed when the anticipated time for units exceeds 12 months. The current wait is over 36 months.

Published: West Valley View, Aug 24, 2022 / 48563

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE OF HEARING ON THE APPLICATION OF LIBERTY UTILITIES (LITCHFIELD PARK WATER & SEWER) CORP. FOR AN EXTENSION OF ITS EXISTING CERTIFICATE OF CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY. (DOCKET NOS. SW-01428A-22-0160 AND SW-01428A-22-0184)

Summary

On June 22, 2022, Liberty Utilities (Litchfield Park Water & Sewer) Corp. (“Liberty Utilities” or “Company”) filed an pplication with the Arizona Corporation Commission (“Commission”) for an extension of its existing wastewater Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (“CC&N”) to serve the Victory Base RE LLC and Freedom Communities LLC developments. The proposed extension area consists of an approximately 49-acre plot near the cross streets of Super Sabre Street and Litchfield Road in Litchfield Park, Arizona.

On July 5, 2022, Liberty Utilities filed an application with the Commission for an extension of its existing wastewater CC&N to serve the Pradera Estates development. The proposed extension area consists of an approximately 20-acre plot south of Glendale Avenue between 125th Avenue and 127th Avenue in Maricopa County, Arizona.

On August 11, 2022, a Procedural Order was issued consolidating the two applications.

THE COMMISSION IS NOT BOUND BY THE PROPOSALS OF LIBERTY UTILITIES, STAFF, OR ANY INTERVENORS. THE COMMISSION WILL DETERMINE THE APPROPRIATE RELIEF TO BE GRANTED IN RESPONSE TO LIBERTY UTILITIES’S APPLICATIONS BASED ON THE EVIDENCE PRESENTED IN THIS MATTER.

How You Can View or Obtain a Copy of the Application

Copies of the Applications are available from LIBERTY UTILITIES on the Internet via Liberty Utilities’ website, www.libertyutilties.com; at the Commission’s Docket Control Center at 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona, and the Commission’s office at 400 West Congress Street, Suite 218, Tucson, Arizona, during regular business hours; and on the Commission website (www.azcc.gov) using the e-Docket function and the Docket Number shown above.

Arizona Corporation Commission Public Hearing Information

The Commission will hold a hearing on these consolidated matters beginning October 14, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., at the Commission’s offices at 1200 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007.

A public comment meeting will be held at the beginning of the first day of hearing, and comment may be provided in person or telephonically. To provid e telephonic public comments, call 1-866-705-2554, and enter participant no. 241497#.

Written public comments may be submitted by mailing a letter referencing Docket Nos. SW-01428A-22-0160, et al. to Arizona Corporation Commission, Consumer Services Section, 1200 West Washington, Phoenix, AZ 85007, or by submitting comments on the Commission’s website (www.azcc.gov) using “Cases and Open Meetings” and “Make a Public Comment in a Docket”

If you require assistance, you may contact the Consumer Services Section at 602-542-4251 or 1-800-222-7000.

If you do not intervene in this proceeding, you will receive no further notice of the proceedings in this docket unless you sign up to Follow the Docket. However, all documents filed in this docket are available online (usually within 24 hours after docketing) at the Commission’s website (www.azcc.gov) using the e-Docket function. Information on how to Follow a Docket is available on the Commission’s website by clicking on “Cases and Open Meetings” and “Follow a Docket or Document Type” About Intervention

The law provides for an open public hearing at which, under appropriate circumstances, interested persons may intervene. An interested person may be granted intervention if the outcome of the case will directly and substantially impact the person, and the person’s intervention will not unduly broaden the issues in the case. Intervention, among other things, entitles a party to pr esent sworn evidence at hearing and to cross examine other parties’ witnesses. Intervention is not required for you to appear at the hearing and provide public comment, to file written comments in the record of the case, or to receive emailed notice of each filing made in the case by following the docket.

Information about what intervention means, including an explanation of the rights and responsibi lities of an intervenor, is available on the Commission’s website (www.azcc.gov) by clicking on “Cases and Open Meetings” and then clicking on “Intervene in a Case.” The information includes a Sample Intervention Request and a Fillable Intervention Request Form.

To request intervention, you must file a written request to intervene, either (a) by filing a hard copy request (meeting filing requirements) with Docket Control (Docket Control, 1200 West Washington, Phoenix, AZ 85007), or (b) by eFiling the request. Your request must be filed or eFiled no later than September 23, 2022. Instructions and restrictions for eFiling are available on the Commission’s website at http://azcc.gov/hearing/efilefor-utilities-instruction. You also must serve a copy of the request to intervene on each party of record, on the same day that you file the request to intervene with the Commission.

Your request to intervene must contain the information below:

1. 1.Your name, address, and telephone number;

2. The docket number for the case in which you are requesting to intervene;

3. A short statement explaining:

a. Your interest in the proceeding (e.g., a property owner in an area to be affected by the case, etc.)

b. How you will be directly and substantially affected by the outcome of the case., and

c. Why your intervention will not unduly broaden the issues in the case;

4. A statement certifying that you have sent a copy of your request to intervene to the regulated company or its attorney and to all other parties of record in the case; and

5. If you are not represented by an attorney who is an active member of the Arizona State Bar, and you are not representing yourself as an individual, sufficient information and any appropriate documentation to demonstrate compliance with Arizona Supreme Court Rules 31.1, 31.2, 31.3, 38, 39, and 42, as applicable. This only applies if you are NOT representing yourself and you are not a Licensed attorney.

The granting of motions to intervene shall be governed by A.A.C. R14-3-105, except that all motions to intervene must be filed on or before September 23, 2022

ADA/Equal Access Information

The Commission does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to its public meetings. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter, as well as request this document in an alternative format, by contacting the ADA Coordinator, Carolyn Buck, E-mail ADACoordinator@azcc.gov, voice phone number 602542-2247. Requests should be made as early as possible and no later than 48 hours in advance of the event to allow time to arrange the accommodation.

Published: West Valley View Aug. 24, 2022 / 48578