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Pendergast CFO chosen for national academy
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Attorney helps feds nab Avondale con man
By Paul Maryniak
When he lived in Avondale and then Ahwatukee, Raheem Oliver knew how to play the angles.
He played them so well that he made an estimated $640,000 in three years off the backs of elderly people – including a 96-year-old man known for his work as a World War II Marine cinematographer whom he fleeced out of $98,000 through an elaborate magazine subscription racket.
But Oliver made a crucial mistake two years ago that put him in a federal courtroom in Virginia last Friday before a judge who handed him a 14-year prison sentence.
Oliver rented a house from Ahwatukee attorney Mark Pyper.
Had it not been for Pyper’s curiosity, Oliver might well have continued what U.S. Attorney G. Zachary Terwilliger called “his broad and calculated magazine fraud scam.”
Even Pyper himself was conned, though not through the magazine scam.
Back in 2016, Oliver offered to rent Pyper’s 7,500-square-foot house in Ahwatukee’s Equestrian Estates neighborhood. So, the attorney did a background check and learned Oliver had spent time in prison.
Oliver had served six years for his conviction on armed robbery and kidnapping stemming from a violent heist of a jewelry store in Gilbert in 2003. He blindfolded the female clerk and bound her in duct tape before making off with what police said at the time was a “considerable” amount of jewelry.
August 29, 2018
When he brought his prison record to Oliver’s attention, Pyper recalled, Oliver “represented that he was a ‘changed man’ with a successful business and that he even coached underprivileged teens in a competitive basketball league.”
Acting on religious beliefs that once in-
Swindler...continued on page 2 Discovery Education visits Palo Verde center
Suspects arrested in Buckeye narcotics bust
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
A three-month investigation by the Maricopa County Drug Suppression Task Force (MCDSTF) yielded 15 pounds of methamphetamine, 519 fentanyl pills, marijuana, cocaine and vehicles.
The investigation, which started in May, led to the arrest of three men on August 17.
Abraham Oliveros-Suarez, 22, Armando Oliveros-Suarez, 25, and Rodrigo Valdez, 22, were taken into custody in connection with the sale and possession of the drugs.
The suspects met undercover detectives at a location in Buckeye to conduct the drug transaction. Once the suspects met
with detectives, they were taken into custody without incident.
Detectives also found a high-caliber handgun inside the vehicles the suspects arrived in. The investigation led detectives
Bust...continued on page 3
Ahwatukee attorney Mark Pyper holds a copy of the check he received from con man and career criminal Raheem Oliver when he was a tenant in a home Pyper owned. The third-party check piqued his curiosity and he called the man who wrote it – ultimately triggering an investigation that unraveled the scheme. (West Valley View photo by Kimberly Carrillo)
spired him to serve a mission in Africa as a young man, Pyper decided to give him a second chance.
He realized pretty quickly he had made a mistake.
Within a matter of months, Pyper said he “began seeing irregularities involving Oliver and his rental payments.”
There were other problems as well – such as Pyper’s pool service company telling him that Oliver’s kids were throwing rocks into the pool that were creating problems with the filter system. Then there was the basketball camp.
One day he dropped in on Oliver and found “18 kids in sleeping bags on the living room floor.” He later found out that Oliver was charging their families $5,000 for the camp, which he touted as a route to a big-name college or university scholarship. During his sentencing, his lawyer cited a half dozen individuals who got basketball scholarships and claimed they resulted from Oliver’s work with them.
But it was how Oliver paid his rent that finally piqued Pyper’s curiosity –and eventually started the conman’s
quick descent into problems with federal authorities that ended in his guilty plea earlier this month to federal fraud charges.
Rather than pay him from his own checking account, Oliver sent Pyper a check that an elderly Kentucky farmer had made out to Oliver.
Pyper tracked down the man, who talked about how Oliver had threatened him with legal action over $18,000 for unpaid magazine subscriptions. He told Pyper that Oliver had him send roughly half that amount – which turned out to be the check that Oliver simply forwarded on to his landlord.
have to rip out your 18-foot wrought iron front door.”
“I’m glad I gave them the code,” Pyper said.
Investigators found a ruthless, well-coordinated scam.
to be patient and said that fellow congregants at his church in Laveen were “passing the plate” to raise money to cover the arrearages.
“I told him, ‘So you live in a mansion but the peasants who live in Laveen are helping you out,’” the attorney said.
Pyper called the FBI, which referred him to U.S. Postal inspectors.
They began an intensive investigation that culminated in a raid on the Equestrian Estates mansion.
Pyper still remembers the conversation just before the raid: “They said, ‘If you give us the key code, we won’t
For at least three years, Oliver led a ring that preyed on vulnerable elderly people by “falsely representing to these individuals via telephone calls and other communications that the victims needed to pay thousands of dollars at a time for purported magazine subscription renewal fees, past-due magazine subscription balances, attorneys’ fees, fines, other legal fees and court costs,” prosecutors charged.
He threatened his victims with lawsuits and even arrests and not only pressured them into making payments, but also made illicit charges off the credit card numbers they provided him.
One victim received 100 calls in a six-month period from Oliver, who extorted sums that quickly tallied thousands of dollars.
Oliver was a classic deadbeat, too.
While stiffing Pyper on the rent, Oliver drove a new Mercedes, wore fancy clothes and expensive jewelry and often talked of the exotic trips he took with his wife and four kids.
One time, Pyper pressed Oliver about his unpaid rent. He begged Pyper
Pyper said he is out thousands of dollars in property damage and unpaid rent.
And he quickly discovered he was not alone.
“He got married at my house and I got a call from a catering company looking for him. It turned out he never paid their bill,” Pyper said.
Then there’s the company that had installed a $10,000 security system in the home at Oliver’s request; they never got paid either.
Though he had changed his life of crime from one of violence to fraud, Oliver inflicted no small degree of injury on his victims.
“By any measure, the defendant’s criminal conduct was quite serious and was motivated by greed,” Terwilliger said in a presentence report.
“The defendant deliberately targeted elderly victims, often with diminished mental capacity and physical health, and preyed upon them in order to unjustly enrich himself. He repeatedly and shamelessly lied to his victims, and he employed calculated and sophisticated tactics to mask his true identity and conceal his crimes,” he wrote, adding:
“Most importantly, as the victim impact statements make clear, the defendant not only stole thousands of dollars from his individual victims (totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars overall), but his conduct also inflicted se-
...continued on page 3
Swindler
Raheem Oliver faces 14 years in prison for bilking over 300 elderly people out of more than $600,000. (Special to the West Valley View)
Meinhardt
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rious emotional harms on the elderly victims and their family members.”
One of those victims was Norm Hatch, a Marine Corps combat cinematographer during World War II who risked his life to capture some of the most iconic footage of the Battles of Iwo Jima and Tarawa. That footage helped the documentary With the Marines at Tarawa win the 1945 Academy Award for Most Outstanding Documentary Short Film. The story of Hatch’s experiences in World War II was later turned into a book.
Somehow, Oliver – whom Hatch had never met – managed to convinced the then-93-year-old Alexandria, Virginia, resident that he owed $98,000 for unpaid magazine subscriptions. Hatch paid Oliver the money, and died a year ago without ever seeing a penny back.
A friend of Hatch, who requested anonymity, thought Oliver’s sentencing Friday was “sort of cosmic justice.” It came exactly one year to the day that Hatch was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery.
There were no jewelry or fancy clothes on Oliver as he stood before the judge and pleaded for probation.
“Raheem showed up in court in oversized jeans and untucked shirt,” the friend said. “I thought it was rather sloppy of him – you’d assume one would want to look presentable in front of a judge – but later a detective told me that defendants will do that because sometimes they go right into custody and their clothes are put into storage for years.”
Ironically, that didn’t happen – at least not immediately.
Oliver said he is trying to earn money to repay the victims, claiming he was coming into the possession of a truck that would help him earn $15,000 to pay some restitution.
They noted he had been a “top salesman” after his release from prison in 2010 for Dish 1 Up Satellite and later for Global Sales Enterprises.
Prosecutors noted that Oliver also had been a “top salesman” for all the bogus magazine companies he set up to rob his victims – companies named National Publishers Magazine, Platinum Reader Magazine, readerselection.com and Magazine Subscription Renewal LLC.
“Mr. Oliver has tried to make amends as best he can – both through continuing his worthy efforts to help underprivileged youth and by seeking business opportunities to help pay restitution to the victims,” his lawyers told the judge.
Bust...continued from page 1
to a Buckeye residence connected to the suspects and the investigation.
The Buckeye Police SWAT Team executed a search warrant at 22674 W. Pima Street, where additional pills, methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine and currency were located.
“Our partnerships with other law enforcement agencies to carry out the goal of public safety is a high priority,” said Sheriff Paul Penzone.
“Effective communication between local, state and federal agencies is the foundation for successful police work to target drug operations.”
MCDSTF was assisted by the Buckeye Police Department, U.S. Border Patrol Tactical Unit, DEA enforcement and the Phoenix air support unit.
The collaboration led to a safe and successful arrest of three suspects who had been selling a large amount of methamphetamine and pills in and around Buckeye, Penzone said.
Abraham Oliveros-Suarez, Armando Oliveros-Suarez and Rodrigo Valdez were booked into the Fourth Avenue Jail for sale of dangerous drugs, sale of narcotic drugs, possession of a weapon in drug offense and conspiracy.
They also requested he be sentenced to a minimum-security prison in the Phoenix area “so that he may stay involved in his family’s life as much as possible.”
The judge allowed him to remain free on bond until that facility has a free bed.
Abraham Oliveros-Suarez. (Photo courtesy Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office)
Armando Oliveros-Suarez. (Photo courtesy Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office)
Rodrigo Valdez. (Photo courtesy Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office)
Pendergast CFO chosen for national academy
By West Valley View staff
Pendergast Elementary
School District chief financial officer Joanne Fimbres has been selected to participate in the National Association for Latino Superintendents and Administrators (ALAS) Superintendents Leadership Academy.
Fimbres has served as the Pendergast CFO since January 2017 and is responsible for directing, managing and coordinating the business and financial services related to the planning, development and implementation of policies, programs and practices in support of the district.
Pendergast Superintendent Dr. Lily Matos DeBlieux recommended Fimbres for the academy, which she attended in 2012.
“Joanne has been a visionary leader in the Pendergast Dis-
trict and has received multiple awards for her work in keeping our district in outstanding fiscal shape,” DeBlieux said. “She will contribute her skills and talents to the academy and grow as a leader of the future. We are grateful for this opportunity for her and the district.”
The Superintendents Leadership Academy’s goal is to recruit and prepare Latino school system leaders to serve in districts that have a Latino population of 20 percent or higher.
The academy is an exclusive yearlong leadership training institute that allows the 17 participants to continue in their current positions while being trained, coached and mentored.
Participants must have the ability to understand, lead and manage in a complex political organization and work well in a diverse setting. Additionally,
they must have a high level of energy, determination and perseverance to act as a change agent in a demanding organization.
“I was thrilled to be chosen for this honor to participate as it will not only enhance my leadership skills, but also enable me to share my passion for improving public education with a long-term commitment to our preschool to eighth-grade system,” Fimbres said.
“Our students deserve the very best educational experience and having a chance to learn from the finest practitioners across the nation will benefit not only me, but also the students, staff, families and the communities we serve. I am grateful for the support Pendergast district provides, and the encouragement to grow and collaborate.”
Justice Courts seek hearing officers
By West Valley View staff
The Justice Courts of Maricopa County are putting out a call to members of the public who may have what it takes to preside over certain kinds of court cases.
Every day, Justices of the Peace handle evictions, orders of protection, civil lawsuits, criminal traffic citations, civil traffic citations, small claims cases and more. Those last two types – civil traffic and small claims – may also be heard by volunteer hearing officers.
The Justice Courts have a need for qualified hearing officers in the West Valley at court buildings in Avondale and Surprise.
Small claims are cases where one person has filed a lawsuit of $3,500 or less against another person. The Hearing Officer listens to the evidence and decides whether to award a monetary judgment.
In civil traffic cases, a law enforcement officer has given a traffic citation to someone who then pleads “not responsible.” The law enforcement officer states his/her case in court and the defendant does the same. The hearing officer then makes a decision. If “re-
sponsible,” a fine is assessed. If “not responsible,” the case is dismissed.
Qualifications include a serious commitment to listen and be fair. A calm and patient demeanor, and a desire to help neighbors and peers in the community are important.
Officers must donate days per month, sitting on the bench listening to these court cases. They must pass fingerprint and background checks. Those with felony convictions will be disqualified.
The Justice Courts are collecting names of citizens who think they would be a good fit. They will be invited to a “behind-the-bench” tour of either the Southwest Regional Court Center at 10420 W. Van Buren Street in Avondale or the Northwest facility at 14264 W. Tierra Buena Lane in Surprise. The day will include a tour of the courthouses, information about the Justice Courts and being a hearing officer, then sitting in on actual trials in progress.
Anyone interested should send an email to Judge Quentin Tolby at MCJusticeCourts@gmail.com to start the process.
Joanne Fimbres has served as the Pendergast Elementary School District CFO since January 2017. (Photo courtesy Pendergast Elementary School District)
Rose Parade & Los Angeles Tour
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Hawaiian Islands Cruise
& Tour
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Discover Hawaii on this island-hopping cruise tour. Spend 7 nights aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s renovated Pride of America and enjoy freestyle cruising at its nest. Experience Lahaina, the historic whaling village with a near-daily “5 o’clock rainbow”, Kona’s co ee-rich “Gold Coast,” and Kauai’s spectacular landscape. Your land tour includes a Pearl Harbor and Honolulu Tour, and time to relax on world-famous Waikiki Beach.
12 days from $1,649* $1,399* Departs April - September, 2019
Take the ultimate trip around the Emerald Isle! Starting and ending in Dublin, enjoy a 12-day loop around the island with an expert local driver guide showing you the legendary hospitality and iconic sights of this lushly green nation. See fairytale castles like Blarney and Bunratty. Experience Titanic Belfast in the very town where the grand ship was built. Travel through the Ring of Kerry and see the Cli s of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway, learn about Irish emigration to America, tour the Waterford Crystal factory, and more, on this exceptional tour!
Romantic France & Transatlantic Cruise
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Experience a transatlantic journey from Miami to Monaco that you’ll never forget! Our glamorous itinerary begins in Miami where you’ll board the elegant MSC Divina, travelling up the coast to New York City for a very special included New York Experience before setting off across the sea. After sinking your toes into the pink sands of Bermuda, you’ll visit the Azores, Lisbon, Spain, and Marseilles, before disembarking in Italy. You’ll travel on land to Nice, and spend a final night in elegant Monaco.
Union Elementary principal nominated for LifeChanger award
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Union Elementary School principal Michael Welsh mirrors a Midwestern work ethic.
A Buchanan, Michigan, native, Welsh connects with teachers regularly to discuss the resources they need and how to improve classroom behavior in Tolleson. He spends time with struggling students and connects with families to build a sense of community. He works hard for himself and the students.
As a way of saying thanks to Welsh, kindergarten teacher Stephanie Sisson nominated him for the 2018-2019 national LifeChanger of the Year award.
“Overall, Mr. Welsh provides a caring, nurturing environment for our students, staff and families, where we feel supported and valued as educators,” Sisson said.
Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards K-12 educators and school district employees who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence,
positive influence and leadership. Seventeen LifeChanger of the Year awards with varying monetary prizes will be given during this school year.
Winners are announced via surprise award ceremonies held at their schools. The grand prize finalists will also be honored at a national awards ceremony in May in Hawaii, where the grand prize winner will be revealed. To view Welsh’s LifeChanger of the Year nominee profile, or to nominate someone, visit lifechangeroftheyear.com.
“It’s very exciting,” Welsh said. “I think it’s neat to be recognized. I do this because I’m passionate. I love public education. I love the families. I love the students and I love the teachers. This is the cherry on the top.
“I think people get into administration because they’re very passionate about children. I’m passionate about all aspects, all of which are parts of the puzzle.”
Welsh began his career in his hometown, where he taught third grade.
“My first teaching assignment was
in my old third-grade classroom,” Welsh said. “My teacher passed away of cancer and I was hired to finish the year out. I was hired the next year.
“Going back to the school where I attended kindergarten through fifth grade and taking over the classroom of my third-grade teacher was amazing.”
Welsh, who earned degrees from Bethel College and Grand Valley State University worked in Ohio for two years and has been in Arizona for more than a decade. Welsh has been in his position just over three years. He encourages teachers to collaborate and create lesson plans together
“When we get away from ‘my class’ and say ‘our class,’ we’re making an impact not just in ‘mine’ but all classrooms,” Welsh said.
“Every child deserves to come to school in a quality classroom, a quality school and do that through shared commitment. That’s how you make a difference.”
For Welsh, this is about the kids.
POLICE BRIEFS
By West Valley View staff
Registration open for HOA Academy
Residents of Avondale, Buckeye and Goodyear are invited to register for the fall Southwest Valley HOA Academy from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, September 22, at Goodyear City Hall, 190 N. Litchfield Road.
Participants will learn about the legality board decisions. The interactive seminar incorporates video clips of boards taking action that was lawful, “but awful,” according to a press release. The seminar addresses best practices and recent developments in Arizona law that directly impact planned communities and condominium associations.
For more information, call 623333-2701 (Avondale), 623-349-6459 (Buckeye) or 623-882-7801 (Goodyear).
“My biggest goal is for our students to have options in life,” he says. “I want them to be as prepared as they can be for life.
“I want them to know that goal setting and working hard and trying and not giving up counts. We’re preparing kids for life.”
Man shot at Circle K in Avondale
A man was shot at a Circle K at the southwest corner of Lower Buckeye and El Mirage roads, according to Avondale Police.
Officers responded to the scene around 12:40 p.m. August 10, finding the victim in front of the store with a nonlife-threatening gunshot wound. He was transported to the hospital in stable condition.
Later that evening, around 7:45 p.m., the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office tipped Avondale Police off about a potential suspect, who was subsequently revealed to be Anthony Deshawn Washington of Avondale through a collaborative effort between the two departments.
Washington was booked into the Pinal County Jail for attempted first degree homicide.
Union Elementary School principal Michael Welsh said he’s preparing children, like Elias Lopez and Gabriel Seville, for life in his role. (West Valley View photo by Pablo Robles)
Avondale Water Conservation classes announced
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Avondale will soon begin water conservation and landscaping classes to create healthy, vibrant landscapes with the water waste.
Most courses are taught by master gardeners, certified arborists and horticulturists. Dates and times vary through the season.
Classes are offered at Avondale City Hall, 11465 W. Civic Center Drive; or Avondale Civic Center Library, 11350 W. Civic Center Drive.
Advanced registration is required, as space is limited. Classes could be canceled due to low registration.
To sign up, contact Esmie Avila, Avondale Water Conservation education specialist, at 623-333-4422 or eavila@avondaleaz.gov. For more information, visit avondaleaz.gov/landscapeclasses.
Here are the classes, all of which are from 6 to 8 p.m., unless otherwise noted:
Intro to residential scale permaculture
Thursday, September 13
Avondale City Hall
Vegetable gardening
Thursday, September 20
Avondale City Hall
Growing fruit trees in the desert
Thursday, September 27
Avondale City Hall
How does the drought impact Avondale?
Tuesday, October 23
Avondale City Hall
Planting for year-round color
Thursday, November 1
Avondale City Hall
Get a good start – tips on plant selection & care
Thursday, November 8
Avondale City Hall
Basic irrigation parts, troubleshooting and repair
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 17
Avondale Civic Center Library
Irrigation timer programming
2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 17
Avondale Civic Center Library
Shank graduates from basic training
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
U.S. Air Force Airman Garrett R. Shank graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.
The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.
Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Shank is the son of Judd and Jill Shank of Goodyear. He is a 2014 graduate of West Valley Education Excellence High School, Goodyear.
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Garrett R. Shank is a 2014 graduate of West Valley Education Excellence High School. (Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force)
Growing West Valley eyed as one market for Showhomes expansion
By Connor Dziawura
Showhomes, billed to be “America’s Largest Home Staging Company,” is looking to branch outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area’s Scottsdale market in the future.
The company, which is locally only in Scottsdale, can support around five locations throughout the Valley, said the company’s chief operating officer, Matt Kelton.
One of these locations would be Goodyear, while other areas of interest cited by Kelton are Cave Creek and Carefree in the northeast, Chandler and Gilbert in the southeast, as well as more central areas.
“They’re all good,” Kelton said. “We’ve had good luck. We’ve had a couple of different owners in Phoenix in the last 20 years and it seems like they understand staging (and) design … Staging is big on the west coast in general is what we’ve found, and I think it’s definitely a good market as far as looking at opportunities for our specific industry.”
One of these owners is current Scottsdale franchisee Janelle Joyce. Show-
homes has been in the area for several decades, and Joyce took over nine years ago. In that time, she has sold
DENTAL Insurance
$100 million in real estate.
“My background was in actual franchise sales and also medical device sales, so I had more of a sales background and the design kind of came over time,” Joyce explained. “When I found Showhomes, it was like the perfect marriage of right brain and left brain. I still got to build relationships, if you will, of those things that I love so much on the sales side, and then also I got to experience this amazing creative side and really learn about design and be able to express it in that way.
“It’s just been an amazing experience for me because I’ve always had an interest in real estate, and so it’s great to be a part of this community that it just raises property values, strengthens communities. It’s a wonderful thing to be a part of.”
With the company seeing such success via Joyce as well as what Kelton referred to as “major growth” in Phoenix, it only makes sense to extend its reach beyond Scottsdale.
“We don’t want to have a single location in one market and we’ve had so much demand over the years for people who want to do business with us beyond just Scottsdale,” he explained.
Though no official timetable is set, the idea is to expand to the Goodyear area within the next year to year and a half, Kelton said.
Determining which new markets to which the brand could be applied is
based on statistics like population and the top 20 percent of home values, he said. Growth in Phoenix – and the West Valley – makes the Valley an ideal market for the company.
“We look at a new construction both of residential homes as well as things like shopping centers,” he said.
“We look at job growth, companies that are moving into an area. Part of the things we look at are past experience we have in the market, which we have had a positive experience. And we look at design trends, is there a market that staging has a presence, what’s the competition look like, are there a number of stagers and designers.
“When we look at everything as a whole, those are all things that would indicate that this would be a really good market for us.”
Founded in 1986, the company has evolved over the past 30-plus years and now offers a variety of services such as home manager staging, home staging, home makeovers and home updating.
Not only has the metro Phoenix market grown for Showhomes, but so has the home staging industry – and in turn the Showhomes brand. Nationwide, the company has 67 locations in 22 states.
“It’s almost become kind of an accepted thing that your home’s going to be staged and designed,” Kelton said, adding that the majority of people view homes online before they ever visit it in person. “It’s something that realtors now are big proponents and expect it, and very few people can visualize what a home looks like vacant, and so if it’s vacant you can get low ball offers and it just seems to pop a lot better when it’s furnished with ontrend stuff.”
Joyce reiterated this idea. She views proper pricing and home staging as well as having strong photos to be important because “online presence means everything.” Staging helps buyers visualize scale and how the house will look when fully furnished.
As far as the growth of home staging, Joyce has noticed a change that she perceives to stem from the rise of HGTV and flipping and design television shows.
“I don’t have to talk them into why staging works. I just have to explain to them why I’m their best choice,” she explained.
Showhomes’ Scottsdale franchisee, Janelle Joyce, has sold $100 million in real estate. The company is now looking to replicate her success by expanding to other Valley markets, like Goodyear. (West Valley View photo by Kimberly Carrillo)
OUR READERS’ VIEWPOINTS
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Trump: Clueless or a liar?
Editor:
Yes, it is an old theme, but it’s been a few months since we reflected on Mr. Trump’s false statements. Politifact looked at hundreds of his comments and determined that he spoke falsely in 68 percent of them. Here are a few from recent weeks:
• “Because of open borders, crime in Germany is way up.” False: It is at its lowest rate in 30 years.
• “The EU is killing us on the Mercedes and BMWs they export to us.” False: Most of those cars are made in South Carolina.
• “We have the highest quarterly GDP growth in decades.” False: It was higher five times in Obama’s second term.
• “The tariffs are working so well that U.S. Steel is building six new steel plants.” False: They are not building any.
• “I have the highest poll numbers in the history of the Republican Party.” False: He is fourth highest since regular polls began in 1935.
• “Many NATO countries owe us a lot of money.” False: NATO doesn’t work that way – each country funds its own military
• “I have watched ICE liberate towns from the MS-13 gangs.” False: There is no evidence of that, and no mayor or police agency supports his claim.
• “The Steele dossier started the Mueller investigation.” False: It was the FBI tracking Trump campaign adviser George Papadopoulos’ contacts with Russians.
• “Collusion is not a crime.” False: Although the word collusion is used only in antitrust laws, the behavior is illegal under several criminal statutes.
The Washington Post reports Mr. Trump makes untrue statements an average of six times a day. Shame on him. Sadly, he campaigned the same way, but 45 percent of the voters didn’t care and elected him anyway. Shame on them.
John Flynn Goodyear
Capitalism works
Editor:
Sen. Cory Booker, D-NJ, a rising star in the party and possible presidential candidate, recently proclaimed that there are things that are savagely wrong with America.
It seems the one thing that gives the left energy and purpose is to tell us how bad America has become. They see America as an unjust country in need of a complete makeover, possibly to socialism or even communism, two historically failed isms. No great discoveries or inventions for the advancement of humanity have ever been made by anyone living under socialism or communism because those failed isms oppress and stifle the human spirit.
I grew up believing America was a great and proud nation, and I hold fast to that belief. I was taught by my parents, at church, and most of all by the public school system in the town in which I grew up that America was the greatest nation.
Sure, as a nation, historically we have made a lot of mistakes. What nation hasn’t? But if you objectively look at the big picture, America’s nobility far outweighs its failures. No nation has done more for the dignity of mankind than America. No nation has offered more opportunity for individual economic success than America. Capitalism works, not just for the rich, but for everyone. America works, and it works like none other.
Had it not been for America, the world would be speaking German or Japanese. Let’s not forget also that slavery was the worst failure we have had as a nation. Thousands upon thousands of white Americans died in a war to bestow the promise of liberty to black Americans. That is a sobering fact.
It is time for the left to focus on our greatness instead of our failures and help us build this nation up, instead of tearing it down. Because honestly, there is nothing the left can champion that is better than what we have here, right now. Maybe it is time for the left to help make America great again. But, sadly, the odds are against that happening.
Roy Azzarello Goodyear
Open your minds
Editor:
I’m so tired of all this political nonsense. We have Republicans yelling about the Democrats not being respectful to the president; that they are on a “witch hunt;” they are obstructionists, and everything is fake, including the news.
Well, go back eight years and you will see the Republicans have done some of the very same nasty things. Both sides go after the other for what they themselves have done in the past. That’s just crazy! Both sides have flaws and can claim a title of hypocrisy.
Remember when President Obama said he was willing to meet any leader and how the Republicans jumped all over him? How they did everything they could to stop President Obama’s policies and his SCOTUS nominee that Republicans wouldn’t allow. Let’s not forget the personal attacks he endured also.
Now it’s the Democrats’ turn. It’s perpetual! The one thing I see that’s very different from past administrations is this administration makes things very personal and it is verbally abusive. This has led people on both sides to become just as nasty and abusive.
I wish we could get rid of all this
anger and just start listening to each other. That includes me. Each side has something productive to contribute, but to see that, we must listen with an open mind. Get rid of the tit-fortat attitudes. Be open to looking at the truth. The real truth, not just what you are being fed. Don’t dig in your heels just because they are not in your party. Be loyal to what’s right. Be loyal to the facts. Be loyal to the real truth, not necessarily your truth that has been distorted due to a party affiliation.
Mike Getz Goodyear How to get a letter published
250 N. Litchfield Road, Ste. 130, Goodyear, AZ 85340 E-mail: editor@westvalleyview.com
The West Valley View welcomes letters that express readers’ opinion on current topics. Letters must include the writer’s full name, address (including city) and telephone number. The West Valley View will print the writer’s name and city of residence only. Letters without the requisite identifying information will not be published. Letters are published in the order received, and they are subject to editing. The West Valley View will not publish consumer complaints, form letters, clippings from other publications or poetry. Letters’ authors, not the View, are responsible for the “facts” presented in letters.
‘The In Between Times’ leave him feeling outside
By David Leibowitz
For all the many reasons life feels so tricky in 2018 – hideous partisan politics, the changing divide between genders, the inexplicable popularity of the Kardashians – one reason has stood out to me of late. We’re living through a confusing time period that I’ve come to call “The In Between Times.”
That would be the space between “back in the day” and some presumably far better tomorrow.
Life during The In Between Times generates a ton of confusion. Like Wednesday, when I arrived at a buddy’s house and spied a thick sheath of bound yellow paper littering his driveway. It was soggy to the touch from the monsoon. Nonetheless, I carried the waterlogged item to his front door. Our comedy routine went on a full five minutes.
“What is this thing?” I asked.
“It says ‘Yellow Pages,’” was his answer. “Huh. You think Amazon screwed up and it’s for someone else?”
Me: “Maybe a drone dropped it?”
Then we made the ritual annual walk to the recycling bin and gave the Yellow Pages a proper burial.
The In Between Times – when some businesses remain willing to buy ads in the Yellow Pages, so someone continues to print virtually worthless phone books – provides many such confusing moments. Last week, for example, I told a freelance designer I would mail her a check that afternoon.
This Millenial’s response?
“You know, I actually don’t take checks now. I do PayPal, Cash app or Zelle. Whichever works best for you.”
You know what would work best for me? If accepted methods of exchanging currency that have been in use for decades wouldn’t go out of style before my very eyes.
Pretty soon, I’m going to make what nowadays has become known as a “dad” joke – “The check is in the mail!” – only to be greeted by the blank stares and slack jaws that have become staple expressions during the In Between Times.
I’m sure that was the look they wore at the corporate headquarters of Border’s Books and Blockbuster Video, at precisely the moment the digital future kicked those companies in the organizational private parts.
That’s The In Between Times for you: You do things one way for 10 or 20 years. Then, all of a sudden, 99 percent of the world is doing that thing a better way and you’re the last to know. Though not all the time.
A few weeks ago, my doctor’s office asked me to sign a document and fax it to them.
Me: “Uhh, I’m not sure if you’re aware, but it’s not 1999. I don’t have a fax machine. It’s in the trash next to the Betamax and the telephone answering machine. How about I sign this thing digitally and email it back?”
Thereafter, I was treated to a long lecture about end-to-end email encryp-
tion and HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. I’ll spare you the gory details. Basically, it’s way tougher for some 14-year-old in Moscow to hack your podiatrist’s fax machine than it would be to compromise an email account.
Which I guess someone should have told Hillary Clinton back in like 2016. Anyway, such is life during The In Between Times. One day, the future will arrive, with all its glorious improvements on modern life. Your GPS won’t malfunction anymore and guide you into the labyrinth of dead ends around Sky Harbor Airport. Siri won’t mishear you and text someone to “duck off.”
And newspaper columns like this one will no longer be an assault on your senses.
Mostly because I doubt there will be newspapers like this one when the In Between Times finally, mercifully come to an end.
– David Leibowitz has called the Valley home since 1995. Contact david@ leibowitzsolo.com.
David Leibowitz. (Photo courtesy Advisor Group)
Government is helping to create jobs
By Clint Hickman
Everyone who wants a good job should be able to get one. County government doesn’t play a direct role in growing the economy, but there are things we can do to increase job opportunities. I wanted to share a few examples that are near and dear to me.
Community Kitchen
The Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority (mcida.com) recently granted $40,000 to St. Mary’s Food Bank so it could expand its Community Kitchen program.
I’ve been involved with St. Mary’s for a number of years and have always appreciated the work it does to provide meals and connections to those who are less fortunate. Community Kitchen takes the mission further and trains people to get and keep jobs in the food service industry, which may enable them to avoid coming back to the food bank. I like that this investment will nearly double the number of people the program serves, especially when you
consider they are homeless, formerly incarcerated, or face other barriers to employment. The $40,000 will go a long way to helping people turn their lives around, and it all starts with some skills and a stable job.
Military and Veteran Success Center
The IDA is also helping put veterans back to work. Last year, the IDA provided a nearly $1 million grant to Maricopa Community College Foundation to run the Military and Veteran Success Center at Luke Air Force Base. The center helps current and former military and their families with the transition to civilian life. Importantly, it provides them with plans that meet their individual needs, including resources for building resumes, applying for jobs, and making connections that lead to new careers.
Arizona@Work –Maricopa County
Maricopa County partners with the
state of Arizona to run career centers across the region including one near 95th Avenue and McDowell Road in the West Valley. This is a place where anyone can come for resources, whether you’re young or experienced; employed, underemployed, unemployed, or looking for someone to employ.
Job seekers can get career guidance and assessments; customized training; resume help; and access to the latest job listings and hiring events. Employers can find recruits and take advantage of employee development programs that will make their business operate more efficiently. Community partners who join the Arizona @ Work (arizonaatwork.com) network can help their clients and play a role in strengthening the local economy.
Those are just a few examples of how Maricopa County government (with help from public, private and nonprofit partners) is helping to create opportunities for people who are will-
ing to work hard. To learn more, check out the “jobs” playlist on our YouTube page, (https://bit.ly/2Mv1sLV).
– Clint Hickman’s family owns Hickman’s Family Farms and he serves on the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors for District 4.
Clint Hickman. (Photo courtesy Maricopa County Board of Supervisors)
Business Briefcase
By Connor Dziawura
Hello, readers! We have an eventful week and a regular Goodyear City Council meeting yielded quite a few results – some of them long-awaited. There’s also a new Music & Arts. But outside of Goodyear, business is booming, too, with developments regarding boba shop Teacup and the Immersive Teaching STEAM Academy in Litchfield Park. A new location for the popular locally owned and operated Bosa Donuts is coming east of Luke Air Force Base; but that’s just scratching the surface. I have the details below!
First, Goodyear City Council approved the final plat for Pebble Creek Marketplace, at the southwest corner of Pebble Creek Parkway and McDowell Road, on August 20. Pebble Creek Marketplace is the future site of the Babbo Italian Eatery I mentioned last week.
I’d be remiss if I neglected to mention WinCo Foods, though there’s not much in the way of updates, unfortunately. I recently spoke with the city’s Economic Development Department, who informed me there is no word yet on the long-awaited WinCo, which would be located at Pebble Creek Marketplace.
What I can tell you, though, is that council’s action means the new Circle K and Panera Bread (to be relocated from across the street) will progress. No word yet on the timeline for those two,
though Babbo anticipates its own early 2019 opening. (See West Valley View’s July 4 story “Babbo Italian Eatery coming to Goodyear in 2019” and August 22 Business Briefcase column.)
At that same council meeting, a use permit was approved for a future drive-through restaurant in the Canyon Trails Towne Center, at the northeast corner of Cotton Lane and Yuma Road. I have not yet heard back as to what will occupy the space.
In other recent news, Teacup is new to Litchfield Park. It is located at 13000 W. Indian School Road, Unit A-14, at the northeast corner of Indian School and Dysart roads. The new family-owned boba shop offers drinks like the strawberry matcha latte, milk tea, Thai tea, mangonada and the interestingly named avalanche and Oreo chocolate goodness. Some offerings are via partnerships with local companies Beetanical and Press Coffee. For more information, visit teacupboba.com or facebook.com/ teacupboba – or just stop in. Keep an eye out for a feature story on Teacup in a future issue of West Valley View
Keeping on the subject of Litchfield Park, CWS AZ LLC bought a 2,500-square-foot retail property from Fineline Properties LLC for $355,000. Located at 13331 W. Indian School Road, the property used to be Deja V’you Consignment. CWS AZ LLC owner Raman Khurana
said it will now belong to Immersive Teaching STEAM Academy (ITSA), an organization of which he is executive director. STEAM fields are science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
ITSA’s current location is in Goodyear. I am awaiting confirmation regarding a potential upcoming grand opening.
Back in Goodyear, Music & Arts opened earlier this month at The Market at Estrella Falls. Music & Arts is located at 2025 N. Pebble Creek Parkway, Suites A05 and A06, at the southeast corner of Pebble Creek Parkway and Monte Vista Road. For more information, visit stores. musicarts.com/goodyear. Check back for a story soon in the West Valley View. Moving along, a new BoSa Donuts is coming soon! It will be at the northeast corner of Glendale Avenue and Litchfield Road, in a former Jack in the Box just east of Luke Air Force Base. A representative for the locally owned and operated donut shop said it plans to open in September. Coffee, smoothies, bagels, croissants, muffins, sandwiches and, of course, donuts… this one is sure to be an exciting launch for early risers. BoSa Donuts has a variety of other locations spanning Phoenix to Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek and Casa Grande. For more information, visit bosadonutsaz. com.
members and $300 for nonmembers. Sponsorships are available from $3,500 to $25,000. For more info on the nomination process or the event, or to register, visit westmarc.org/bow18.
Finally, several Earnhardt Auto Centers in the West Valley are collecting new and gently used bicycles throughout the month of September. The collections come through 2018 Recycle Your Bicycle campaign, which started August 27. Earnhardt locations of interest to West Valley View readers are Earnhardt Honda, 10151 W. Papago Freeway, Avondale; Earnhardt Hyundai Avondale, 10401 W. Papago Freeway, Avondale; Rodeo Ford, 13680 W. Test Drive, Goodyear; and Rodeo Kia, 10685 W. Papago Freeway, Avondale.
The Recycle Your Bicycle campaign is developed by The Arizona Association for Foster & Adoptive Parents (AZAFAP), and often partners with Earnhardt Auto Centers and ABC15. The campaign is intended to help children in foster care, and AZAFAP will distribute the bicycles during the winter holiday season.
Changing subjects, the deadline to submit nominations for WESTMARC’s 26th annual Best of the West Awards Dinner is 9 p.m. Friday, August 31. The nomination fee is $50 for members and $75 for nonmembers. Individuals can be nominated in the Economic Engine, Quality of Life Enhancement and Excellence in Innovation awards categories.
As far as the event, it will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, November 15, at University of Phoenix Stadium. The first hour and a half is dedicated to registration and a silent auction, with the program and dinner from 7 p.m. onward. Tables cost $2,000 for members and $2,500 for nonmembers, while individual seats cost $250 for
As part of the campaign, ABC15 will also host a phone bank to collect cash donations for bicycle supplies from 9 to 10 a.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 12. Then, ABC15 will encourage bicycle donations live from Earnhardt Rodeo Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Queen Creek from 11 a.m. to noon and Earnhardt Ford in Chandler from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, September 21.
That’s all the briefs for this week! Other businesses and requests are still in the works, so I will keep you posted regarding requests concerning Tailgaters, Dunkin’ Donuts and more. Thanks for reading!
Have an item for Business Briefcase? Email Connor Dziawura at
Family-owned boba shop Teacup opened at the northeast corner of Indian School and Dysart roads in Litchfield Park in August. (Photo courtesy Teacup)
Desert Edge wrestling ‘looking great’ under new coach
By Eric Newman
Months before the winter high school season even starts, there were several Desert Edge wrestlers hitting the mats to hone techniques and get as many repetitions in as possible.
Coach Rafael Perez, who took over the program in June, looked on as his new squad listened to the Rocky soundtrack and continued to improve in voluntary practices, motivated by their new head man.
Perez, a quality high school wrestler, forewent college to begin his life in the workforce, and his coaching career began in California just by teaching his kids basic techniques.
“I started out my kids over 20 years ago in wrestling because their mom and I thought it would just be something good for them to get into,” he said. “People started asking me to help them train when they saw how my kids were doing.
“Eventually, they’d come to my house and train from all over California, and my own kids had a ton of success. It was something I thought I could do at any level. High school level is great because the kids need to learn the tools to succeed in life.”
The family moved to Arizona, and Perez joined the staff at wrestling power Sunrise Mountain High to ease into to coaching in a new state.
“Well, I eased in for about seven years,” he said, chuckling. “My kids all wanted to go to the same school. When they all finished, I was going to retire, but this surfaced. I got it, and I was motivated to run a whole program the way I wanted to.”
Perez described himself as “tough,” and said several members of the roster
were shocked at just how hard initial practices were. Weeks later, they were pleasantly surprised at how much they had grown.
David Shuler, one of few members of past staff still with the team, said he saw a drastic change in both workout intensity and offseason attendance in a short time once Perez arrived.
“The program is just night-and-day level different from what it’s been in the past, not to put anyone from before down. From the first day he stepped in here, you could tell the difference in the atmosphere,” he said.
“You can see how much improvement there’s been, and that’s a lot.”
Sophomore Kris Ciccarelli, who recently took first place in a local offsea-
son tournament, agreed. He has seen vast improvement from himself, but teammates as well.
“We were a little weak to start. We’ve all gotten a lot stronger and more intense, and learned a lot of new techniques that we weren’t looking at before in a short time.” he said.
“The biggest lesson is that he taught us how to be ‘mean’ and get the opponents uncomfortable so that we can dominate them.”
As offseason training progresses, Perez said the roster will continue to accumulate talent, especially when multisport athletes of the Scorpion football team join after that season ends.
The success of the wrestling team is important for Perez in his first year with the new program. He hopes his greatest impact comes in teaching life lessons for his young kids.
“I want to bring a program where the kids can excel and learn to wrestle, but honestly I want to teach them to wrestle the challenges they’re going to face in life,” he said.
“I believe it’s one of the sports that gives kids a ton they can take with them for years after finishing high school.”
Desert Edge wrestling coach Rafael Perez gives advice as sophomore Kris Ciccarelli looks on. (West Valley View photo by Eric Newman)
Verrado badminton garnering interest
By Griffin Fabits
The consensus among the Verrado High School girls’ badminton team is there’s nobody better suited to build the program from the ground up than Candice Wadding.
Entering the program’s third season, Wadding, wants to win. In the program’s inaugural season, just eight girls cracked the varsity team. The following fall, the roster had 19 players. This season, nearly 40 girls tried out for the team.
Before taking on the role, Wadding served as the girls’ junior varsity soccer coach. She credits that position, as well as being a physical education teacher, to the booming badminton interest inside the halls of Verrado.
“I’m really lucky because I get to watch them evolve in their freshmen P.E. classes and see who’s like really good athletes and who picks up sports quickly,” Wadding said. “I really, really push for them to give me a chance and come out and try a new sport and push them out of their comfort zones.”
As expected, the program had a few bumps along the road while trying to establish itself as a fixture among Verrado athletics. The first being the most obvious: All eight girls the first season were seniors.
In consecutive seasons, Wadding
WEST VALLEY VISION CENTER
was tasked with filling a roster from scratch. But now, she has certainly garnered interest around the school while boasting returning talent.
Two seniors, Paige Rincon and Erika Gomez, began playing because they were coached by Wadding their fresh-
man year of soccer. Joining the badminton team served as a way to stay in shape for soccer and form a closer bond. They even managed to persuade a few of their varsity soccer teammates to join the badminton squad this year.
“Last year, Mrs. Wadding came up to me and said, ‘Come on, play badminton.’ Paige and Erika did it and said it was a lot of fun and then said, ‘Let’s all do it this year,’” said Emily Diab, a junior soccer player.
By word of mouth, badminton participation seemingly doubled overnight. Bound to be two of Verrado’s starting six players, Gomez and Rincon were instrumental in recruiting talent.
“I was telling everyone it was so fun. I guess word just got around. It’s fun,” Gomez reasoned.
Sure, everyone’s having fun. But competition can be even more fun when you’re on the winning end, which Wadding and the girls have set out to do this fall.
Her first period class is the badminton team, who practice and mesh as a team.
“We would, on late-start Wednesdays last year, practice from 7 in the morning to 10. (Wadding) would make us practice that whole time and that really, really helped us understand the game more and understand each other more. It definitely improved so much of knowing the game and everything,” Rincon said.
After consecutive 4-9 seasons, which was good enough to capture the Division II Phoenix section title, the Vipers kicked off their regular season August 28 against Moon Valley. The score was not available at press time.
For most of these girls, Wadding included, the transition from the team sports mentality to the one-on-one competition can be challenging. But through it all, one thing has remained the same: These girls are itching to contend, and they’re eager to see that competitive nature brought to light this fall.
“I’m so competitive, but I also remember they’re students and this is some of their senior years and I want them to enjoy what they’re doing. I don’t want it to be something that they don’t look forward to, whether they win or lose,” Wadding said.
Coach Candice Wadding and Morgan Rincon during badminton practice at Verrado High School (West Valley View photo by Pablo Robles)
DEHS to host national recruiting expert
By West Valley View staff
Student athletes at Desert Edge High School and their parents will soon get a strong dose of reality about the world of college recruiting from national keynote speaker Jack Renkens.
Renkens will share with the audience the lessons he’s learned during his many years as a high school and college coach, athletic director and parent of a high school athlete. He founded Recruiting Realities debunking the myths and presenting the facts about athletic recruiting for student athletes, their families, coaches and school counselors.
Renkens’ program has been featured at thousands of schools across the United States, on numerous television programs and at sports camps from coast to coast. In addition, he is a weekly contributor to several major newspapers and magazines. His message about collegiate athletic recruiting is simple: “It’s a game … Know the rules.”
High school student athletes serious about continuing to play sports in college can never start too early, nor get too much help. However, most students don’t know the recruiting game, NCAA rules or how to get matched with the best college for them. Renkens will clarify recruiting myths and provide tips to parents and students serious about taking their high school athletics to the next level.
Renkens will present at the Desert Edge High School auditorium, 15778 W. Yuma Road, Goodyear, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 5.
For more information, contact Lucy A. Cohen at 480-540-0040 or lucy@ recruitingathletics.com.
WORSHIP WITH US
Uplifting Music/Inspiring Sermons
9:00am - Traditional Worship Service Nursery/Children’s Church 10:30am - Contemporary Worship Service Nursery/Sunday School
Latin Dance Aerobics
Quilters Anonymous
e West Valley View publishes on Wednesday. e 9 Days a Week 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.
9 Days a Week 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 Rachel Hagerman, rhagerman@timespublications.com or faxed to 623-935-2103.
Wednesday AUGUST
Strengthen cardio fitness from 9 to 10 a.m. with a free dance class provided by the Dr. Saide Recreation Center at 1003 E. Eason Avenue, Buckeye. For information, call 623-349-6350.
Three-on-Three
Basketball
Teens are invited to bring friends for a mini basketball tournament at 3:30 p.m. at the Dr. Saide Recreation Center, 1003 E. Eason Avenue, Buckeye. For information, call 623-349-6350.
Not Hungry Tonight
Not Hungry Tonight is a program that seeks to stop hunger and food insecurity in communities one person at a time. The group meets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s kitchen, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 623-932-2394.
SEPTEMBER
Saturday
pirate-themed exhibit at Wildlife World Zoo, 16501 W. Northern Avenue, Litchfield Park. This show is free with admission. For information, call 623-935-9453.
Contemplative
Prayer & Meditation
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church at 400 Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, invites people desiring to deepen their meditation practice or try meditation for the first time to join them from 3 to 4 p.m. Sundays. All faiths are welcome. For information, call 623-935-3279.
Quilters Anonymous is calling all quilters to meet and work with fellow crafters at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Bingo Hall, 3690 S. Estrella Parkway, Goodyear. For information, call 602-418-3746.
Tech Help
Master eBooks, email, Word and more from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 623-936-2746.
Song-Ercise for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Join Ms. Maria and Ms. Gabby for exercise for parents and their children from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell. For information, call 602-652-3000.
Thematic Book Club
Sewing for Babies
Monday Baby Time
1
at 7 p.m. Al-Anon seeks to support the friends and families of alcoholics. For information, call 623-882-0721.
29
Verrado Visionaries
Stop by the Verrado Grille at 4242 N. Golf Drive, Buckeye, to join fellow businessmen in a West Valley networking group at 7 a.m. each Wednesday. For information, call 623-640-6268.
Silver Sneakers
Exercise Program
Silver Sneakers is a free low-impact exercise program hosted from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. each Wednesday at the Buckeye Community Center, 201 E. Centre Avenue. For information, call 623-349-6600.
Zumba at Fitness in the Park Fitness in the Park is a free workout program that will feature a dynamic and aerobic Zumba dance on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623349-6350.
Pinochle
Buckeye Senior Program participants are invited to a free afternoon of pinochle from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Buckeye Community Center, 201 E. Centre Avenue. For information, call 623-349-6600.
English Language Class
Practice English from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Fellowship Hall, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 623-932-2394.
Thursday
CrossFit Fury at Fitness in the Park
Fitness in the Park is a free workout program that will weight lifting and strength building on Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-349-6350.
Code Club
The Buckeye Downtown Library invites kids ages 8 to 12 to come to 310 N. Sixth Street at 5 p.m. to learn to code python, html and scratch. Registration is required. For information, call 623-3496300.
Weight Watchers
Weight Watchers meets weekly with those struggling with weight or looking for some extra support. Come from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at The Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 623-932-2394.
Baby Time
Bring babies through age 2 for an interactive lap-sit program with books and music at 11:15 a.m. at the Goodyear Branch Library, 14455 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 602-652-3000.
Friday
St. Peter’s RePete Boutique
Stop by St. Peter’s Episcopal Church at 400 S. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, for casual and formal apparel, jewelry, books, household items and home décor between 9 a.m. and noon. For more information, call 623-935-3279.
Teen and Tween Gaming Saturday
Join other teens and tweens from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a morning of video games and board games at White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell. For information, call 602-652-3000.
Open Swim at the Aquatic Center
Enjoy diving pools, a water slide and swimming from noon to 6 p.m. at the Buckeye Aquatic Center, 207 N. Ninth Street. Tickets are $2. For information, call 623-349-6390.
Paws for Reading
Preschoolers and school-age children can visit Goodyear Branch Library with a parent to practice reading with a registered therapy dog. The Paws for Reading program starts at 2 p.m. at 14455 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 602-652-3000.
Movie Night at the Ballpark
Me and My Dad
Help young children refine motor skills and develop confidence with indoor sports classes from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at the Dr. Saide Recreation Center, 1003 E. Eason Avenue, Buckeye. Registration is required. For information, call 623-349-6350.
The
Presbyterian Church at
Bring your family and a blanket to a showing of Despicable Me 3 on the field at 7 p.m. at Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way. For information, 623-882-3120.
CPR and First Aid Training
Learn CPR and how to react in emergencies such as bleeding, shock and burns from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Buckeye Coyote Branch Library, 21699 W. Yuma Road. For information, call 623-349-6300.
3
The Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street invites babies and their caregivers to an interactive play time at 1 p.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.
Hope
Stop by Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Classroom C at 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, for the Hope support group from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The goal of the group is to provide help for those struggling with any mental disorder by sharing experiences and supporting others. For information, call 480-994-4407.
Adult Book Club
Stop by the Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street for a book discussion from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.
12 Step Group Meeting
Military, veterans and spouses are invited to join a 12 Step Program meeting for recovery from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the Military and Veterans Success Center, 1532 N. Commissary Road, Glendale. For information, call 480-384-9874.
Ignite Yoga at Fitness in the Park Fitness in the Park is a free workout program that will feature yogic postures, alignment and breathing on Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-349-6350.
Tuesday
Bring a sewing machine and equipment to join the volunteer Tolleson Community Interfaith Group in creating premature hospital clothing, burial layettes, quilts and more from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 701 N. 95th Avenue, Tolleson. For information, call 623-936-3412.
Estrella Toastmasters
Visit a Toastmasters Community meeting to become a stronger public speaker and leader from 6:30 to 7:45 a.m. at the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce, 289 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 602-391-5781.
Avondale Farmers’ Market
Find fresh, locally grown produce and agricultural products from 8 a.m. to noon each Tuesday through October 30 at the Care1st Avondale Resource Center, 328 W. Western Avenue. Cash, debit, credit, WIC and Snap benefits are accepted. For information, call 623-333-2703.
Preschool Art Studio
Litchfield Park Branch Library at 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard invites preschool-age children to participate in an hour of art at 10:30 a.m. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.
Crocheting 101
The Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive invites adults to learn how to crochet beanie hats at 6 p.m. For information, call 623-333-2602.
Wednesday
The Litchfield Park Library at 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard holds monthly book club meetings at 1 p.m. that focus on a new theme each month. This month focuses on children’s literature. For information or help finding a book for the meeting, call 602-652-3457.
Needle and Thread
The Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive invites adults to bring a coffee mug and materials to join fellow crafters for needlework, knitting and crocheting at 10:30 a.m. For information, call 623-333-2602.
Girl Power Hour
Come to the Dr. Saide Recreation Center at 1003 E. Eason Avenue, Buckeye, at 5 p.m. to express yourself with creativity and hang out with other girls. For information, call 623-349-6350.
Thursday
In Stitches in Goodyear
Enjoy tea and coffee and meet fellow crafters and work on crochet, knitting or sewing projects. Come by the Goodyear Branch Library at 14455 W. Van Buren Street from 1:30 to 3 p.m. to join. For information, call 602-652-3000.
Code Club
The Litchfield Park Library invites kids ages 10 to 13 to learn how to code while playing computer games from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. at 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3457.
Raising a Reader (Ages 0-5)
Bingo
4The American Legion Post 61 hosts bingo each Tuesday at 6:45 p.m. These bingo nights have 17 games including Quickie, Early Bird, Double Action and a $1,000 progressive game. Come down to 35 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, to support the area’s youth and veterans. For information, call 623-932-4960.
Sunday Sea Lions at Shipwreck Cove
2
Buckeye Business Connection
Buckeye Chamber hosts the Buckeye Business Connection from 7:15 to 8:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Chamber office at 508 E. Monroe Avenue. This group serves coffee and a light breakfast and networks with business members in the community. Each week, there will also be a different guest speaker. For information, call 623-386-2727.
5
Preschoolers Storytime
The Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street invites preschool-age children to read books, sing songs and take part in activities at 11 a.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.
Agua Fria Toastmasters
Visit a Toastmasters Community meeting to become a stronger public speaker and leader from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. at Mimi’s Cafe, 1220 N. Dysart Road, Goodyear. For information, call 775-250-0949.
Lunch & Bunco
Come down to the Goodyear Library at 14455 W. Van Buren Street from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch, Bunco and prizes. The cost is $15. Registration is required. For information, call 623-882-7525.
Westgate Hot Rod Night
Enjoy a classic car show, live music, drinks and more from 5 to 9 p.m. at WaterDance Plaza, 6751 N. Sunrise Boulevard, Glendale. For information, call 623-385-7502.
Prepare children for school with a free literacy workshop program from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Avondale Civic Center Library, 11350 W. Civic Center Drive. For information, call 623-333-2602.
Festival Sage Rec Center
Bookmobile
The Bookmobile, a library on wheels, will be at 26501 W. Desert Vista Boulevard, Buckeye, from 9 a.m. to noon. Visitors can get a library card and check out and return books. For information, call 623-349-6300.
Code Club
The Buckeye Downtown Library invites kids ages 8 to 12 to come to 310 N. Sixth Street at 5 p.m. to learn to code python, html and scratch. Registration is required. For information, call 623-349-6300.
EON Business Workshop
Meet fellow businessmen and learn how to build your business from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Buckeye Coyote Branch Library, 21699 W. Yuma Road. Today’s workshop discusses customers. For information, call 623-349-6354.
Al-Anon Stepping Stones
Christ
925 N. Sarival Avenue, Goodyear, hosts a weekly Al-Anon meeting
Masquerade gala to benefit senior meal program
By West Valley View staff
Meals of Joy is bringing “A Royal Affair” to Tuscany Falls Ballroom at PebbleCreek from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, October 13, to raise money for its nonprofit senior meal delivery program.
The program was founded in 2015 to offer hand-delivered meals to seniors who are unable to cook for themselves or are on a limited budget. In Arizona, 17 percent of the senior population is at risk of going hungry. Every day, they make the choice between basic needs such as health care or a healthy meal.
Meal price is determined by income and meals are delivered five days a week throughout the West Valley, and wherever volunteer drivers are available. Since its inception, the program has grown steadily in client numbers.
This year’s black-tie optional masquerade ball will feature a cocktail reception, dinner and dancing with Uptown Big Band as well as a prize awarded for best mask of the evening. No time to make your own? The event
will have a variety of styles for sale as well.
A silent auction and wine pull will also be hosted. Each year, the gala recognizes individuals who make a significant impact on the local senior community. This year’s recipients are
David Schwake, Agua Fria Food and Clothing Bank board of directors president, and Cassie Wilkins, executive director of All Faith Community Services food bank and resource center.
“The individuals chosen for this year’s Community Impact Award embody the true spirit of community leadership and dedication to those in need,” said Meals of Joy founder Larry Cervarich. “Both have served the West Valley tirelessly for years to ensure that we are making the community we live in the best it can be.”
PebbleCreek’s ballroom is located at 16262 W. Clubhouse Drive in Goodyear. Masquerade gala tickets are $80 until September 15. Afterward, the price is $95. Tickets are available at mealsofjoy.org.
Buckeye seeking holiday vendors
By West Valley View staff
The 23rd Annual Hometown Holiday Boutique is seeking craft vendors and artisans for this year’s event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, December 1, at Sundance Crossing in Buckeye.
Spots that are 10 feet by 10 feet are $50. To apply, contact Jessica Thompson at 623-349-6613 or jthompson@buckeyeaz.gov.
Sundance Crossing is located at 21699 W. Yuma Road, at the corner of Yuma and Dean roads.
For more information, visit buckeyeaz.gov/ events.
Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord and her husband, Ron, partake in last year’s masquerade ball festivities. (Photo courtesy Meals of Joy)
Avondale Library kicks off second season of READ! 365
By West Valley View staff
Avondale is set to launch the second season of READ! 365 on September 1. The free program, which is open to all ages, allows participants to earn points to receive digital badges, prizes and books by reading, attending events, or completing challenges. In addition to completing a reading list, learning opportunities may include visits to locations in the community such as parks, city events, special lectures or programs.
To sign up, visit avondalelibrary. readsquared.com or either of the two Avondale libraries where staff can assist with sign ups. There are two branches: Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library (495 E. Western Avenue) and Avondale Civic Center Library (11350 W. Civic Center Drive).
This program was initiated from the feedback of summer reading program participants who indicated through surveys that they didn’t want to stop the reading challenge at the end of sum-
mer. The goal of the program is to give readers a way to keep track of their
reading, and to encourage them with challenges, book lists, the possibility
to earn points and rewards.
The program is separated by age groups 4 and younger; 5-11; 12-17 and adults. An additional program element is the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program.
Over the course of the first year of this program, 159 program participants signed up and a total of almost 97,000 minutes were read. Avondale Public Library hopes to double those numbers this year.
Two very exceptional readers stood out last year and were recognized during the summer at a recent council meeting in Avondale. Emily Moody, 13, surpassed the highest adult program participant by 4,000 minutes. Emily read 15,700 minutes over a period of nine months. That’s more than triple the minutes needed to complete the program.
For more information about the Avondale library, visit avondalelibrary.org.
One of Avondale’s youngest readers, Hadley Harper, shown here with the Avondale City Council, is 5 years old and just started kindergarten. She read 1,000 books before kindergarten. Hadley reads at a third-grade level. (Photo courtesy city of Avondale)
SCRAMBLERS
Unscramble
King Crossword
Discovery Education shoots episode at Palo Verde center
By Lauren Serrato
Discovery Channel’s education arm, Discovery Education, shot its first segment of Navigation Nuclear: Energizing Our World at Buckeye’s Energy Education Center. The program is geared toward middle school students, with the hope of boosting their passion for science. APS helped bring Discovery Channel here.
The Navigating Nuclear: Energizing Our World segment, filmed August 9, will be available to students and teachers for free as one of Discovery Education’s many Virtual Field Trips. The online segments are a series of filmed events that allow students to virtually go places they may not ever get to visit.
Three students from Tartesso Elementary School in Buckeye were chosen to help with an experiment. The fieldtrip focused on how nuclear electricity is made, training and technology, and how the clean source of energy impacts Arizona.
Students chose sixth-grader Linkin Birch and eighth-graders Benjamin Doerksen and Aubree Bruner to represent Tartesso Elementary in the filmed segment.
“We all wrote our own speeches and we presented them to our classes. Our principal announced the winners, and I was really excited,” Birch said. “Sci-
ence is one of my favorite subjects, so I was very excited to have won.”
The new program’s goal is to encourage students to not only understand science, but enjoy it as well. Elizabeth Muller, account specialist with Discovery Education, said the program is a great way for kids to engage in their learning.
“What’s most exciting is that the program will empower a new generation of young scientists with virtually immersive, no-cost educational opportunities that inspire lifelong learning,” Muller said.
Throughout the filming, students interacted with a nuclear engineer.
The three students agreed the segment boosted their love for science. At a young age, Birch and Doerksen said they are sure their future college educations and careers will revolve around their excitement for science.
“I want to be a biologist or an engineer. I just really have a big passion for STEM and want to do something in the field of science,” Doerksen said.
Discovery Education acknowledges the increase of interest in STEM from students within the past few years. Charmion Kinder, director of CEP Communications with Discovery Education, said science is vital to a stu-
dent’s education.
“Empowering students with hands-on learning opportunities inspires a lifelong commitment to solution seeking and unlocks the potential of a new generation of young scientists,” Kinder said.
“Navigation Nuclear will help to empower educators with immersive digital tools and virtual experiences that encourage the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”
The new initiative launched August 15 on discoveryeducation. com, where students will be able to explore applications of atomic science and its role in future advancements.
“Navigation Nuclear will help empower students to explore STEM principals, hone their research abilities and engage students in insightful conversations, helping students match their skills and interests to exciting new opportunities in nuclear science. We believe this program will help open their eyes to the role science plays in our everyday world,” Kinder said. Navigating Nuclear is accessible to
educators nationwide. The initiative’s immersive Virtual Field Trip will debut during Nuclear Science Week on Monday, October 15. Educators, parents and students can visit navigationnuclear.com on August 15 for the digital debut.
“Overall, the Navigating Nuclear initiative seeks to empower educators to discuss a range of topics – from how energy is stored in an atom’s nucleus to how that energy transforms into the electricity that powers our lives –and we’re excited about it launching,” Kinder said.
Student Chronicles
Know a student who’s doing something remarkable? Tell us about it! Email Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at christina@timespublications.com.
Cuitlauhuac Aguilar made the president’s list for the sixth time this summer at Northern Pioneer College in Show Low. The president’s list requires full-time enrollment and a 4.0 GPA. Aguilar received an invitation to join the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, which requires 3.5 GPA.
He served as a regular member, senator, vice president and president of the student government association. Aguilar was a student representative on the college’s presidential search committee.
In May, he was selected as the college’s outstanding graduate in business. He addressed his fellow college graduates at commencement.
Aguilar won the 2018 All-Arizona Academic Team scholarship, which pays for the recipient’s bachelor’s degree tuition at ASU, UA or NAU. He has transferred to ASU, where he is in Barrett, The Honors College. Aguilar resides at Polytechnic campus with his daughters, Vanessa and Jessika. Aguilar is the son of Jose Luis and Marisol Aguilar of Gila Bend, and Jim and Sylvia Welch of Avondale. He graduated from Agua Fria High School.
Cara Elaine Wright of Litchfield Park graduated from Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina, with a Master of Science in biological sciences.
Palo Verde Reactor Engineer Ryne Burgess demonstrates for Tartesso Elementary eighth grader Aubree Bruner, sixth grader Linkin Birch and eighth grader Benjamin Doerksen (Photo courtesy APS)
Exchange students share ideas in Avondale
By Aliyah Chavez
A group of exchange students met on August 18 at Board & Brush in Avondale to handcraft special souvenirs to mark its first meeting since stepping foot in the United States a couple of weeks ago.
Working in collaboration with the ASPECT Foundation, 22 students from around the globe will study at various high schools throughout the Valley including in Anthem, Tonopah, Chandler and Maricopa for the academic school year.
The students, all high-school aged, come from places like Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Spain and Italy. They stretched their creativity and woodworking skills at Board & Brush Creative Studio in Avondale. The studio specializes in allowing people to create do-it-yourself personalized wood signs. The students created their own signs, many of which included “home” painted with the Arizona or United States outline.
“I think the home signs are incredible souvenirs the students can take back with them. They’re like a memoir from this whole experience that they’re getting this year,” shared Board & Brush co-owner Kelsey Cook. “Just to be a part of this is amazing and I feel so lucky.”
Staying true to its mission, the ASPECT Foundation works to build international good will and cross-cultural understanding through cultural exchange programs.
“Even though everyone comes from different countries, kids will be kids,” said Kellie Payne, ASPECT Foundation program coordinator.
“When they sit down and talk to one another, they realize that they have more similarities than differences. We really are all the same.”
A perfect example of that came unexpectedly in the budding friendship of two bright-eyed girls: Nuhzatul Ainiyah, who is studying in Maricopa, and Manizha Hasanova, who resides temporarily in Ahwatukee.
Ainiyah, hailing from Indonesia, spoke excitedly with Hasanova, whose home is 3,844 miles away in Tajikistan, a country in Central Asia.
“We realized we are both 16 and born just one month apart. I was born in October 2001,” Ainiyah said, giggling. “And she in November of 2001.”
For both girls, this trip marks their first time away from home. One major
highlight to discuss? The food.
“All American food, I like it!” said Ainiyah, recalling her first trip to In-NOut Burger. “The burger was so big!”
The students live with host families. The students, aside from studying, also plan for a monthly gathering with their fellow exchange students to mingle, bond and learn more about various activities in the area. Upcoming trips include visits to the Arizona State Capitol and the Grand Canyon. They will have a Christmas potluck and a volunteer service opportunity with the nonprofit Feed My Starving Children.
Payne coordinates the trips because of the educational aspect.
“The students are learning about businesses and developing friendship that can last a lifetime,” she said. “They go home, and they want to instill that type of dream in their friends at school.
Part of that is building global citizenship and global relationships – because they go back home and they want to share what they’ve learned here.”
Payne recollected a former student with a disability who used a wheelchair. “She lived on a fifth-story apartment with no elevator,” she said. “Her mission when she went home was that stores and shopping centers had ramps and elevators, things we don’t think twice about here.”
The program has also encouraged others, like Payne’s son, to want to study abroad.
“From learning so much from these students – since my mom does it – I know what their time here means to them and I think it’s awesome,” said
wishes to study in Argentina next year.
“You can really learn so much diversity in going to a different country and I think it’s an awesome incentive.”
In the meantime, the students are en-
joying their time here – an overwhelming feeling of happiness that doesn’t seem to be fading any time soon.
“This is all so exciting, so cool, America is amazing!” Hasanova said.
Sompol Ariyametsee of Thailand paints a sign. (West Valley View photo by Pablo Robles)
Cody Payne, 14, of Tonopah, who
Board & Brush owners Laura Kearns, left, and Kelsey Cook, right, hosted exchange students. (West Valley View photo by Pablo Robles)
AND ADDRESS: Mike O'Bryan
Member-Managed The names
NOTICE
Articles of Organization
port LLC File #1877876 2 The address of the know place of business is: 11802 W Yuma St A
name and Statutory Agent is:
85323. Antonio Foglia Espinal, member and manager. Published: West Valley View/Business Aug 15, 22, 29, 2018/ 14762
INVITATION TO BID
Bids: Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Time to be determined
Project: Sunrise Lane Phase 2B/2C Landscape
Verrado ARC LLC seeks qualified General Contractors, with a minimum CR-21 Landscaping and Irrigation Systems, to submit sealed bids for the Landscape Installation along Sunrise Lane Phase 2B/2C 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 Thursday, August 23, 2018 Contact Terri Kading tkading@dmbinc com to make arrangements to receive the bid docum
Package” in your Email subject line A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held in the D M B A
Thursday, September 6, 2018 at 1:00 pm All interested parties are invited to attend It is recommended that interested parties RSVP prior to the meeting Sealed bids will be received at the City of Buckeye, City Clerk’s Office, located at 530 E Monroe, Buckeye, AZ 8 5 3 2 6 , o n We d n e s d a
ments Bids submitted after specified closing time will not be accepted Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud immediately after the specified closing time 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 Ev e r y b
surety bond for ten percent (10%) of the bid amount, listing Verrado ARC LLC as the Obligee, as a guara ntee 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 receip t 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, 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 Terri Kading at tkading@dmbinc com – reference Sunrise Lane Phase 2B/2C Landscape. No engineer’s estimate will be distributed. WVV #14856
OBITUARIES
Neal Sherrill
James, a long time west valley resident, died
School graduate 1971 He worked over 20 years for University of Southern California in physical plant maintenance He moved back to west
Survived by brothers Jerry, Marvin, Johnny, Ernie; and sisters Sherry and Sherlene No services He was buried at sea He will be missed by his family and friends
G
Litchfield Park, died August 17, 2018 in
Glendene is survived by her husband,
y n )
Wilson, Daniel (Mandy) Wilson; father, Richard Bagwell; s i s t e r , S u s a n C a r m o n ; b r o t h e r s , D o n O ’ D e l l , R o n O ’
great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, LaVerda Bagwell and father, George Bishop A visitation was held August 25, 2018 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 301 W. Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340. The funeral cortege will foll o w i n p r
W Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301.
Need help writing an obituary? We have articles that will help guide you through the process.
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 480-898-6465 Mon-Fri 8:30-5 if you have questions. Visit: obituaries.WestValleyView.com
WilmaJeanVance
WilmaJ.Vance,age90of Goodyear,diedAugust9,2018,in Goodyear.Shewasborn December11,1927,inRichwood, OhiotoLouieandIdaMartino. Sheissurvivedbyherdaughter, DianeWigal.Shewasprecededin deathbyherhusband,WilliamE. Vance;parents,LouieandIda Martino;sister,WandaGuider;two brothers,LloydMartinoandRonald Martino;andson-in-law,JackWigal.Burialwillbeata laterdateinOhio.
Thefamilysuggeststhatdonationsbemadeto HospiceoftheValley.Condolencesforthefamilymay beleftatwww.ThompsonFuneralChapel.com.
CharlesM.Henry
Charles(Chuck)M.Henry,age62,ofSurprise,went tobewiththeLordonAugust6,2018.
HewasborninPensacola,FL,February28th,1956. HewasaresidentofRoundLake,ILuntiljoiningthe UnitedStatesAirForceaftergraduation.
Heissurvivedbytwodaughters,KariMae(Henry) Ramirez,andKimberliMarieHenry(ShaunSpangrud), theirmotherKaren(Miles)Henry;fivegrandchildren, Nathaniel,Noah&FrankieRamirez,KouryMoksvold &KourtniSpangrud;onesisterEthel(Mae)Henry Moore(BrettMoore),twobrothersRobert(Bob) Henry(KimberlyHenry)andThomas(Tom)Henry; SisterinLaw,KristineLeCakes-Haley(CraigHaley); FatherinLaw,ChristopherLeCakesandnumerous aunts,uncles,nieces,nephewsandcousins.
Chuckwasprecededindeathbyhislovingwife Janie(LeCakes)Henry,hismother,MaryA. (Nessinger)Henryandfather,BernardJ.Henry.
ServiceswillbeheldattheNationalMemorial CemeteryofArizona,23029NCaveCreekRd., Phoenix,AZ85024,Wednesday,August29that10:30 a.m.
ArrangementsunderthedirectionofAbelFuneral Services,1627N51stAve.,Phoenix,AZ85035.
JohnMarkTesta
ADOPTIONS
JohnMarkTesta,age54,of Goodyear,passedawaysuddenly onFriday,August17,2018.Johnis survivedbyhiswifeDebbie (McKay)Testa;ason,Jacob;anda daughter,Rebekah.Hewas precededindeathbyhisfather, DavidF.TestaofPlymouth Meeting,PAandastep-fatherFred H.FrickeofNorristown,PA.Also, survivingarehismotherTwila (Testa)FrickeofNorristown,PA;abrotherDavidF. TestaofKissimmee,FL;asisterJanetF.(Testa)Schafer ofCollegeville,PA;nephews,aniece,andnumerous friends.
ApublicviewingwillbeheldonThursday,August 23rdatThompsonFuneralChapel,926S.Litchfield Road,Goodyear,from2:30pm-4:30pm.ACelebration ofLifewillbeheldatCornerstoneChristianCenter, 11301WIndianSchoolRd,Avondale,85392onThursday startingat6PM.
FriendsmaymakememorialcontributionsinJohn's nametoThompsonFuneralChapelinGoodyear. Condolencesforthefamilymaybeleftat www.ThompsonFuneralChapel.com.
Glendene Viola Wilson
James
Dick
Classifieds
EMPLOYMENT
Labor Systems in partnership with Hickman's Family Farms
Now hiring for multiple positions in Buckeye, Tonopah, and Arlington:
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Temp to hire opportunity with excellent benefits including:
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$10 50 - $12 00 per hour No Applications at Hickman s Family Farms, must apply at Labor Systems: 7707 SW Highway 85, Suite 139, Buckeye, AZ 85326
LOOKING for experienced compassionate CNA's. Certified Caregivers Part time/ full time 623-547-7521
TURN DRIVERS & LINE DRIVERS NEEDED Good Pay & Benefits Good Equipment Turn Drivers Home Daily Line drivers Out
2 Days A CDL Req'd Call Mark 602-254-9922
EMPLOYMENT
HELP WANTED
R-Stucco in Goodyear has an Immediate Opening for a Full Time Customer Service Representative Email Resumes to dalia@r-stuccollc com Dalia 623-932-4031
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All Manager Positions Email Resume to Roy Martinez martr3@hotmail com
EXP D LANDSCAPERS Wanted in Goodyear area
Starting pay $13/hr PLEASE text M-F 7a-2p 623-399-0139
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10 Temp Farmworkers needed 9/15/18-12/15/18 Workers will perform various duties associated with planting , cultivating & hand harvesting crops according to supervisor’s instructions. Workers will have extensive period s of sitting, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, repetitive m o
crops on a commercial farm & affirmative, verifiable jo b references May random drug test at employer’s expense Guaranteed at least 3/4 of contract hours but hours will v a r y a c c o r d
may exceed or be less than 36 hours Work tools, supplies, equipment provided at no cost Housing provide d for non-commuting workers at no cost Transportation & s u b s i s t e n c e r e i m b u r s e d t o w o r k e r u p o n c o m p l e t i o n o f 50% of contract or earlier if appropriate $10 50/hr or current applicable AEWR Raise/bonus at employer discretion EOE Worksite in Maricopa Co AZ Applicants report/send a resume to the nearest AZ DOL office or cal l 602-372-4200 & ref job order #3172281 Duncan Famil y Farms- Buckeye, AZ
Available: Hardware Stores, The Home Depot, homedepot com
LAND FOR SALE
CASH
OFFICE/Retail/Premium/ Affordable suites available 722' - 2000' Dysart/ Van Buren/ Litchfield 602-694-3158
ROOMS/ ROOMMATES
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$100-$500+ Cash for Junk Cars all " as is" autos! Good condition more $$$$ Best Prices! Fast, free pickup 602-391-3996 I Buy Estates! Collections-Art-Autos Death & Divorce & Downsize Business Inventory Ranch & Farm Small or Large - Fast & Easy Call Now for Appt (10a-4p) Mr Haig 480-234-1210 Haig3@aol com
EARLY DEADLINES: Sept. 5th Edition: Classifieds: Friday Aug 31st 9am
Obituaries & Legals: Thurs Aug 30th 11am 480-898-6465 class@timespublications. com
Classifieds: Friday 1pm for Wednesday
Or 305-490-4689
PUBLIC NOTICE
In the Matter of Estate of Michelangelo Whitten NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT: 1 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Chris Whitten has been appointed Personal Representative of this Estate May 22nd, 2018 2 DEADLINE TO MAKE CLAIMS All persons having claims against the Estate are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or the claims will be forever barred. 3. NOTICE OF CLAIMS: Claims must be presented by delivering or mailing a written statement of the claim to the Personal Representative at (address) ADDRESS 3780 REBECCA LN APT A101, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80917 DATED: 8/7/18 /s/ Chris Whitten
Chris Whitten
PUBLISHED: West Valley View and West Valley Business , Aug. 22, 29, Sept 5, 2018 / 14716
NOTIFICATION OF PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD 2017-2018 HUD CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER)
The City of Avondale is required to obtain the views and opinions of citizens regarding its Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), prior to its submission to the U S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) The CAPER summarizes the accomplishments and financial expenditures during the Program Year beginning July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018 under the City’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) The CAPER will be available for review and comment for a 15-day comment period beginning on August 30, 2018 and extending through September 14, 2018 at the following locations:
Avondale Community/Senior Center, 1007 S 3rd Street Care 1st Resource and Housing Center, 328 W Western Avenue
The CAPER can also be found on the City’s web site at: www avondaleaz gov/government/departments/neighborhood-family-services/housing-and-community-development/community-development-block-grant-cdbg/plansand-reports
Written comments or questions regarding the CAPER should be addressed to:
Matthew Hess, Housing & Community Development Manager
Avondale Community Center 1007 S 3rd Street, Avondale, Arizona 85323 or via email at MHess@avondale org
Comments on the CAPER will be received for consideration until 5:00 p m on September 14, 2018
PERSONS REQUIRING HEARING, VISUAL, MOBILITY, LANGUAGE OR OTHER ACCOMMODATIONS MAY CONTACT THE CITY AT 623-333-2726 OR TDD 623333-0010 TO MAKE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS PARA ASISTENCIA EN ESPANOL LLAME 623-333-2700 Published August 29, 2018 / WVV #14916
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