Ahwatukee Foothills News - November, 06 2019

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Wednesday, November 6, 2019

State gives high grades to most Ahwatukee schools

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Most schools in Ahwatukee scored an

“A”in the 2019 round of grading by the state Department of Education.

And among the others, one Ahwatukee middle school went up a notch while another dropped a grade, according to data released last week.

An “A” grade reflects overall excellent per-

formance by the school, and includes distinguished performance on assessment tests, significant student growth over the previous year, high four-year graduation rates for high schools, and an overall performance that is significantly higher than the state average.

However, the department notes that all “A” schools don’t necessarily meet all those categories.

“B” reflects ”highly performing schools” in at least one of those categories while a “C”

reflects “adequate performance but needs improvement on some indicators, including proficiency, growth or graduation rate,” the Education Department explained.

Earning an A for a second consecutive year among Kyrene schools in Ahwatukee were Altadena Middle School, Colina, Cerritos, Esperanza, Estrella, Lagos, Monte Vista and Sierra.

WWII veteran, 98, gets a warm welcome

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

His parents didn’t want him to sign up.

But there was no stopping Kenneth Kerr shortly after America was jolted out of its remaining isolationist doldrums Dec. 7, 1941.

So, five months after Pearl Harbor was attacked, Kerr and two guys he went to high school with drove 2,100 miles to San Diego to sign up with the U.S. Navy and serve his country.

He became a medical corpsman, serving in battles in the Philippines, New Guinea and, finally, Okinawa – the largest land-sea-air battle in history and the bloodiest of the Pacific War.

On Oct. 29, a small but grateful group of Americans gathered at Zzeeks Pizza and Wings on Warner Road at 48th Street to thank Kerr for his service.

They also wished him a belated happy birthday – two days after he turned 98.

The guests – including his daughter Penny Gipson, granddaughter Cassandra Gipson-Reichardt and 3-year-old great granddaughter Laura Gipson-Reichardt – had gathered largely as a result of Zzeeks co-owner Jody Pectol’s social media invitation to the community.

Even a 92-year-old World War II veteran, Bob Metzner of Ahwatukee, showed up in his wheelchair to greet a onetime comrade in arms.

Widower Kerr only arrived in Ahwatukee in mid-September to live with daughter Penny, a three-year Ahwatukee resident.

Pectol and her husband Mark thought a little party welcoming him to the community and honoring his birthday and his service

Kenneth Kerr flashes a victory sign while celebrating at Zzeeks Pizza in Ahwatukee with his daughter Penny Gipson. Zzeeks owners Mark and Jody Pectol organized a ccelebration honoring him for his service as a Navy corpsman during WWII and wishing him well two days after he turned 98. Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

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Appeal asks Arizona’s highest court to consider Lakes case

AFN NEWS STAFF

The True Life Companies and Wilson Gee asked the Arizona Supreme Court to consider their appeal of the state Appeals Court decision ordering them to restore the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course, last Friday.

The Court of Appeals last month upheld a 2018 ruling by Maricopa County Superior Court Judge John Hannah, holding deed restrictions require the 101-acre site be used as a golf course.

Gee’s company, Bixby Village Golf Course and True Life argued they had the option of leaving the property vacant or operating it as a golf course, depending upon whether they wanted to cash in on a state tax break for golf courses.

They also maintained an order requiring them to build a golf course even though it would be a monetary loser violated the U.S. Constitution’s prohibition against slavery. But Court of Appeals Judge Randall Howe wrote that there is nothing optional about it and that the deed restrictions require that the property is operated as a golf course.

True Life’s lawyers insisted they are no longer a party to the case and the company has no role in the appeal.

Gee, a principal in Bixby who closed the course in 2013, foreclosed on a $9 million note True Life had signed to turn it into an “agrihood” with about 160 homes, a farm and other features.

Gee closed the site in 2013, saying it was losing money. He repeatedly said the site will never be a golf course again.

Homeowners Linda Swain and Eileen Breslin, who filed their suit in 2014, want the course restored and are challenging that contention even while the high court mulls Gee’s appeal.

They filed a request in Superior Court asking Gee be ordered to start restoration or face contempt-of-court actions, that could involve fines and even imprisonment.

There is no required timetable for the Supreme Court to decide whether to accept Gee and True Life’s appeal. However, it will could close to two months before the high court even begins consideration of the appeal since Swain and Breslin have 45 days to answer.

Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course, shuttered since 2013, has become a dingy 101-acre piece of desert.

(AFN file photo)

Former GOP Sen. John Kyl speaking at Desert Vista High Nov. 7

Former U.S. Sen. John Kyl will speak Thursday at Desert Vista High School - and the students who arranged for his visit want people to know he’s not just there to address them and their classmates.

“The community is welcome and we especially encourage students and their families to attend. We encourage people of opposing views to attend as well in order to see the other side of the political spectrum and ask questions about

from page 1

Also earning an A were Desert Vista High School, both the elementary and secondary division of Horizon Honors and BASIS Ahwatukee.

A “B” went to Mountain Pointe High School, Akimel A-al Middle School and Lagos Dual Language Academy and Milenio.

Among all 25 Kyrene campuses in Ahwatukee, Chandler and Tempe, 11 earned an “A” and another 11 a “B.”

The three Kyrene schools earning a “C” were Centennial Middle School and Lomas Elementary in Ahwatukee, Kyrene

the common conservative beliefs and the senator,” said Allen Pan, a Desert Vista senior who is also the vice president of the school’s Young Americans for Freedom chapter, which arranged the visit.

Kyl, a Republican who represented Arizona in the Senate from 1995 to 2013, and again in 2018, was named by Time magazine in 2006, as one of America’s Ten Best Senators, and he will be speaking from 3:30-5 p.m. Nov. 7.

Allen described the Desert Vista Young Americans for Freedom as “a group of politically involved high school students

Middle School in Tempe.

For six Kyrene schools, the 2019 grades represented a change from last year –with five dropping a notch, including two in Ahwatukee.

Only Akimel saw an improved grade, going from a “C” last year to a “B.”

Lagos dropped from an “A” to a “B” and Centennial dropped from “B” to “C.”

The other Kyrene schools that dropped were Brisas Elementary and Paloma Arts Integration Academy in Chandler and Pueblo Middle School in Tempe. All three went from “A” last year to a “B.”

Joining Desert Vista with an “A” in the

that wanted to make a difference in our community by promoting a conservative political perspective.”

“We promote conservative and libertarian values, specifically the ideas of individual freedom, a strong national defense, free

Tempe Union High School District was Corona del Sol. Mirroring Mountain Pointe’s “B” grade were Tempe High and McClintock. Marcos de Niza scored a “C.”

The grade system is used to help improve schools.

Specifically, the Education Department notes, the system also is a tool to help parents “better understand what school is best for their child and to help the state identify which schools are in need of support and how to better prioritize resources.”

This year the grading system was tweaked by the state to include a broader

enterprise and traditional values,” he explained.

He said that while the subjects of Kyl’s address are still being decided, he “will be talking about his experience as he served on the Senate Judiciary and Finance committees, as the Republican Policy Chairman and served as the Senate Republican whip.”

Kyl briefly filled in the seat left open last year, following the death of Sen. John McCain, his longtime friend and political ally.

range of performance assessment. An overall growth rate was replaced by three measures, included improvements among student “subgroups” such as race or gender as well graduation and dropout rates.

School districts have an opportunity to appeal grades given for individual schools, although it’s unclear how many grades actually get changed.

Schools have until Nov.5 to file an appeal and the Arizona Board of Education in December will make a determination on those appeals based on the recommendations of a special committee.

JOHN KYL

GRADES

Girl Scout raising money for Ahwatukee Legion flag box

ATempe Girl Scout is hoping to help Ahwatukee American Legion Post 64 find a special place for old U.S. flags.

Jane Spellman, 14, a freshman at Corona Del Sol High School and the daughter of Miki and Charlie Spellman, wants to get Ahwatukee’s only military organization a flag retirement box that will be stationed at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center, the post’s official headquarters.

She’s also raising money for a plaque for the American Legion’s flagpole and is developing a website to teach people about flag retirement procedures.

Though she doesn’t live in Ahwatukee, her grandmother does and is an ARC member.

Post 64, which conducts an annual flag retirement ceremony on Flag Day, June 14, has been in desperate need of proper storage space for old flags because so many get dropped off in advance of Flag Day.

A Scout for 10 years, Jane is now a Senior Girl Scout with Troop 1553. She said she’s reached out to Federal Express and the Postal Service to try and get one of their metal boxes that would then be stripped and repainted, but so far she’s had no luck.

“If I cannot get one of these organizations to provide a box, I will have to buy or build a box that can stand up to the harsh Arizona weather,” she said.

People can donate money on Crowd Funding at crowdrise.com/o/en/team/ jane-spellmans-gold-award.

Jane said her inspiration for the project is her late grandfather, J. Paton Dellow.

“He was very involved in the American Legion in Lincoln, Illinois. He ran the Gifts for Yanks, holiday gifts for vets in nursing homes. He was also actively involved in Illini Boys’ State and a member of the Honor Guard,” jane said, adding:

“I want to honor the American flag, our country and veterans.”

Sierra Elementary students to honor veterans Friday

AFN NEWS STAFF

Students at Kyrene de la Sierra will honor veterans in a special way this Friday.

With performances by the Sierra Singers choir and the Sierra Strikers mallet ensemble, they will hold a ceremony for veterans 8-8:30 a.m. Nov. 8 at the school,

1122 E. Liberty Lane.

The public is invited and veterans are encouraged to attend in uniform or in clothing representing the military branch in which they served. Students and parents are encouraged to wear red, white and blue.

All attendees must check-in with a photo I.D. at the 12th Street gate.

Allen said he contacted Kyl earlier this year after having shared the stage within in Mountain View Presbyterian Church’s “Heart of America” concert in 2018.

“He was excited to have received my invitation and responded quickly to have me arrange things with his assistant,” said Allen, adding that refreshments will be served after his address.

The son of Joy Pan and stepfather Qiu Lan, Allen said he and his colleagues in the school club formed their chapter last year.

“Our involvement in politics stems from our desire to make a positive impact and preserve our conservative beliefs,” he

said. “After Trump’s inauguration in January 2017, and other recent political controversies, the political dynamic has become extremely polarized and dominated by ignorance.

“The establishment of the Desert Vista chapter of Young American’s for Freedom allows students like us to have a place to call home to defend our right of free speech and expression of belief.”

With graduation ahead, Allen is considering out-of-state schools as well as Arizona State University for continuing his education but at least right now, his career ambitions don’t involve politics.

“I’m interested in the STEM field,” he said, “and would like to be part of the computer science community.”

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2 parades will honor veterans next Monday

AFN NEWS STAFF

Parades in Phoenix and Mesa, next Monday, will honor the men and women who donned a military uniform in service to their country.

Both the Veterans Day parade in Phoenix and the one in downtown Mesa start at 11 a.m. Nov. 11.

The Phoenix Veterans Day Parade will head south on Central Avenue from Montebello Drive to Camelback Road, then turn east on Camelback Road to 7th Street and turn south on 7th Street and end at Indian School Road.

The East Valley Veterans Parade steps off at University Drive and Center Street and proceeds along Center south to W. First Street before heading west to W. Robson.

Last year, 40,000 spectators watched more than 2,000 parade participants from East Valley communities march.

The East Valley parade’s theme is “Commemorate and Celebrate,” acknowledging

Twelve Oaks

Listed

the 100th anniversary of the nation’s dedication of a day to honor veterans and the 75th anniversary of D-Day.

The East Valley Veterans Parade Association is an all-volunteer community event organization that relies on local businesses, organizations and individuals to accomplish the patriotic tribute.

It originally was the Mesa Veterans Parade until it fell victim to necessary budget cuts in 2006.

Local residents Gerry Walker and Frank “Gunny” Alger spoke out on behalf of the 40-year-old Mesa tradition, with Walker declaring, “There will be a Veterans Day parade if it is only me marching down the street with Frank watching.”

The Marine Corps League Saguaro Chapter in Mesa took the lead and the Mesa Veterans Parade Association was formed.

In 2013, the all-volunteer organization changed its name to the East Valley Veterans Parade Association to reflect the participation of parade entrants and sponsors from most East Valley communities.

Honoring veterans

Emma Jackson of Ahwatukee Preschool works with the rest of her classmates on flags for Veterans Day that will be put up around the school Nov. 7. Preschool Director Mary Adams said the 70 students are continuing a 33-year tradition started by her predecessor. “The kids love making the flags and many have family members who are currently or who were in the military,” Adams said. “We share stories about family members and friends and the kids realize when they see someone in uniform that those people are heroes.” (Mary Adams/Special to AFN)

Kyrene teachers in Ahwatukee saluted

Kyrene Schools Superintendent Dr. Jan Vesely surprised 22 teachers in Ahwatukee schools with special visits and commendations for their students’ exceptional performance in AzMerit tests.

teacher Cheryl Chance and Sierra first grade teacher Leslie Hall – had classes that showed 100 percent growth.

Three middle school math teachers were among the honored educators. They included seventh-grade teachers Dondi Casell at Akimel A-al and Megan Shafer at Altadena as well as Kayla Velastegui, who teaches eighth grade at Centennial.

As part of her regular “Kyrene Values Teachers” program, Vesely saluted the teachers whose classes showed the highest growth this year over last. Two of the educators – Esperanza kindergarten

Other teachers included: David Brockman, Eileen Byrne-Quinn and Michelle Jolin, all at Cerritos; Colina teachers Kevin Anway and Marcia Quintero-Guest; Esperanza teacher Rochelle Cotela; and Kristen Farmer, who teaches at Estrella.

Also honored were Lomas teachers Amy Buchanan and Jill Patchin, Milenio teachers Laura Sparks and Carol Warren, Monte Vista teachers Christine Hartland, Kimberly O’Rielly and Kelsey Hamilton and Sierra teachers Heidi Crouch, Cheryl Foster and Vico Guerrero.

Sierra teacher Leslie Hall, left, and Esperanza teacher Cheryl Chance

provement in test scores over last year.. (Special

would be a fitting welcome for one of the dwindling number of America’s greatest generation.

People answered Pectol’s call with greeting cards and warm welcomes after Kerr arrived with a small escort, courtesy of Scott Slocumb of Ahwatukee and Matt Cavanaugh of Gilbert, members of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association.

Kerr was thrilled beyond belief, at times wearing a little party hat and other times his baseball cap with “World War II Veteran” emblazoned above the visor and sporting the three Navy bars he earned for the three battles he served in.

Between reading the cards he received, Navy First Class Corpsman Kerr told his story.

Kerr not only defied his parents when he took off for San Diego, but cut short a promising college basketball career.

“I broke my dad’s heart,” he said, explaining how his father, a retired Army officer, was stationed at the Culver Military Academy in Indiana and had wanted him to enroll.

“I wouldn’t go to the military school because I made the varsity basketball team when I was a freshman” despite the fact that he was only 5’9.”

“He wanted me to be a military man. Well, I ended up being military anyway,” Kerr recalled.

“I was an athlete,” he continued. “I wanted to be a coach and I made All-Section 1 in the state of Indiana. I got a scholarship to small colleges and then Pearl Harbor happened. Pearl Harbor was a tragedy.”

He and one of his two friends had cars, so they flipped a coin to see who would drive.

When the trio got to San Diego, “we just walked right in to enlist.”

The only problem was the guy with the car had a heart murmur and was rejected. The other friend decided he’d help him

drive back to Indiana.

“I had already signed up, so I was staying,” Kerr said.

He was sent to several training schools to become a medical corpsman and at a USO Club met Frances Watson.

“We hit it off and decided to get married before I went overseas,” he said of Frances, to whom he was married for 55 years until she died in 2008.

Then, he was shipped off to war and for 13 grueling months saw little else but blood and tears.

First destination was Manila, where he fought for the liberation of the Philippines.

Then it was on to New Guinea, where the Japanese ultimately suffered a crushing defeat.

Finally, he was sent to Okinawa, the last and costliest battle of the Pacific Theater where 155,000 Japanese soldiers were determined to fight a war of attrition. By the end, Americans suffered 49,000 casualties, including about 12,500 deaths.

An estimate 110,000 Japanese soldiers lost their lives, as did between 40,000 and 150,000 Okinawa civilians.

Throughout that time, Kerr had to carry a gun even though he was a medic. “In Eu-

see VETERAN page 15

The birthday cake for Kenneth Kerr included a photo of him 70 years ago when he was in the Navy, about to fight in the Pacific Theater. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

VETERAN from page 14

rope, the enemy didn’t shoot medics, but the Japanese did,” he explained.

“I get tears in my eyes,” Kerr said. “The worst thing was watching these guys go over the hill. I stayed on the beach and I survived. I don’t know what happened to them.”

“When you make the landing, you don’t know if you’re going to come back or not,” he continued. “I landed in the third wave.

“I never went in more than a hundred or 200 yards because I was a medic and we treated the wounded on the beach and I was in charge of evacuating, getting them to the hospital ships. That’s what I did. I was proud of it.

“But it was sad. Somebody had to do the dirty work. But we had the right people, I’ll tell you that. They were great.”

About a week before the birthday party, Kerr addressed a group of Air Force service people at Luke Air Force Base and recounted his Okinawa.

“I told them ‘Help us. We really need

you. Because this world is chaotic and you don’t know what’s going to happen.”

One of the men in the audience asked him what his happiest moment in the war

was “and I told him when I came home.”

After he got out of the Navy, Kerry eventually wound up in St. Louis, where his wife worked as a secretary and he worked

as an usher in the day time at a movie house for seven years while he went to school at night to earn his degree in accounting.

They moved to Long Beach, California, where he got a job with defense and aerospace corporation McDonnel Douglas and got a second degree. He was with the company for 30 years, rising to controller after his first 12.

Kerr’s parents got over their disappointment at his enlistment.

“They were really happy when I came home and they were happy I went back to school to get my degree,” he said.

He and Frances raised three daughters and after his retirement, they moved to Hemet, California, where he pursued golf with a passion.

The party left an indelible impression on Kerr, according to his daughter.

When he got home, Gipson said, “He was looking at all his cards, counting them and looking at them. He loved it. He just absolutely loved it.”

Zzeeks owner Mark Pectol addresses the crowd during Kenneth Kerr’s birthday party while Pectol’s wife Jody stayed in the kitchen whipping up some more pies. Pablo Robles/AFN Staff Photographer)

EV engineering marvel marks 2 decades

BY GARY NELSON AFN Contributor

Ahundred years ago, we had to destroy our water in order to save it.

The Salt River, which begins in the mountains of eastern Arizona, had given life to the region since ancient times.

Native civilizations depended on it, and early Anglo settlers had followed their footsteps, even completing a re-do of ancient canals, channeling the Salt River water to thirsty crops.

But the river was fickle. Sometimes in flood, sometimes merely a droughtstarved trickle, it could not be relied on to consistently sustain the towns beginning to blossom in the Valley as the 20th century dawned.

So, we dammed it, and dammed it again, and again, and again, until the waters were trapped and ready for use only when we wanted them to be.

That series of Salt River dams is largely credited with turning the East Valley into the colossus it is today. But it also turned the riverbed into a wasteland, a ghastly, rubbish-filled scar through the heart of the Phoenix metro area.

But some wondered: Must civilization

really come at such a price? Why couldn’t that scar be erased?

Beginning in the 1960s, folks at Arizona State University not only asked those questions, but they came up with an answer in the form of a proposal to rehabilitate the riverbed all the way from far east Mesa to the West Valley.

After years of refinement, the so-called Rio Salado project (salado is “salt” in Spanish) went to Maricopa County voters in 1987. They choked on the price tag and said no.

But one cohort of voters backed the idea.

So, armed with that approval from their constituency, Tempe officials decided that part of the Salt River would someday again be beautiful. They would build a lake, and parks around it, and let the water do its magic.

The result was Tempe Town Lake, a shimmering two-mile-long oasis that has become one of the biggest magnets for tourism, business and culture in the American Southwest.

The lake welcomed its first visitors 20 years ago this month, and Tempe is celebrating with a year-long commemoration

see LAKE page 17

The two-mile Tempe Town Lake turns 20 years old this month and in that time it has

that kicks off with a big party at the lake on Nov. 9.

Mayor Mark Mitchell said the payoff for Tempe’s investment has been immense. Mitchell’s father, Harry, also served as Tempe mayor and was instrumental in keeping the idea alive after the 1987 election defeat.

With some help from other governmental entities, Tempe paid $42.3 million of the initial $45.5 million construction cost.

In return, Mark Mitchell said, the city has derived more than $2 billion in economic benefits from construction, tourism and associated revenues.

“It’s far greater than a dry riverbed,” he said. “It really benefits the entire region.”

The lake’s statistical profile also includes these numbers:

• 2.5 million visitors a year, making it second only to the Grand Canyon as a tourism draw in Arizona.

• 40 major organized events per year, including big-time athletic competitions and community festivals.

• 42,000 jobs within one mile of the water, many of them in high-paying sectors of the economy.

• 30,000 residents within one mile of the lake.

Many of those jobs and residences lie

within the gleaming facades of a mid-rise skyline that has sprung up on both shores since the lake was filled.

None of that comes as a surprise to Neil Giuliano, who served as Tempe mayor 1994-2004 and is now president and CEO of Greater Phoenix Leadership, a private entity focusing on improving the region’s quality of life.

“We did have a long-term vision for the development of the lake itself and then all the surrounding area,” Giuliano said, “and by large, it is becoming what it was envisioned to be. It’s not done yet, still has a long way to go, but … everybody feels pretty good about the success so far.”

Developing the lake, he said, was “a very, very complex, long-term project that involved probably close to 40 different partnerships of private sector, public sector, government sector, nonprofit sector – everyone really had to be involved in this.”

They stayed on task despite a chorus of critics who, Giuliano said, complained “it would be a folly, no one’s ever going to build anything around a fake lake, it’s not going to attract anything but mosquitoes, on and on and on.

“But we moved forward with good information, solid knowledge, and we were taking a level of risk that was well within our capacity as a community to make

something really tremendous happen.”

“We didn’t have to raise taxes to build the lake,” Giuliano said. “That was very important to us at the time. The other thing that was important to us was that the entire perimeter – 100 percent of the perimeter of the lake – would allow for public access. Nothing would ever be able to be built right up to the lake itself.”

Kris Baxter-Ging, a spokeswoman for the city, said water for the initial fill came from the Colorado River via the Central Arizona Project and later the city used tax credits to bring water from the Salt River system itself.

Now, she said, the lake is sustained naturally from water that trickles through the riverbed – water that also feeds several riparian areas near Town Lake itself.

Evaporation from the lake, she said, is about equal to that from two golf courses.

If there was ever a moment when people wondered whether the lake had been a good idea, it probably came in July 2010 when one of the rubber bladders that served as the lake’s dam burst, draining the water in a flash flood in which, mercifully, nobody died.

Later analysis posited that the relentless Arizona sun took a premature toll on the rubber dam, which was replaced by a sturdier hinged-gate dam system.

Baxter-Ging said benefits of the lake extend far beyond its immediate neighborhood.

“If you’re a Tempe resident and you never go to Town Lake, you’re still benefitting from it,” she said. “Those 42,000 jobs that are around the lake, those are very good jobs. A lot of them are in fields like cybersecurity and technology.”

She added, “Not only are we bringing good jobs, but all the benefits that comes from town Lake translates into city services, like police officers, firefighters, improved streets. That money comes back into our city to improve our community.”

But, she said, it’s not just about the money, or even the recreation.

“Town Lake isn’t just a place where people go to do something,” she said. “Town Lake is a place that becomes the backdrop for amazing memories for people. This is where people go on Sunday evenings with their families for walks. This is the place where maybe you swam your first triathlon or ran your first 5K run. This might be the place where you proposed marriage to your wife.

“The 2.5 million people who visit here every year are choosing to come here for a reason. It’s become a beautiful part of our community, a place where we all go to be together.”

Getting here from there took quite a while

Early 20th century – Dams upstream from Mesa restrict flow of the Salt River; the dry riverbed becomes the site of landfills, quarry mines and industrial businesses.

1966 – Dean James Elmore of the College of Architecture at Arizona State University challenges his students to create design concepts using the riverbed. Students design the Rio Salado Project, which proposed a linear green belt with open parks, recreational areas and development along the river.

1969-1974 – As local governments begin to endorse the project, design focuses on a

38-mile-long greenbelt with a series of lakes and streams.

1979 – Tempe Mayor Harry Mitchell forms the Tempe Rio Salado Citizen Advisory Commission, providing citizen input and publicity for the project. The Legislature creates the State Rio Salado Development District.

1985 – A consultant completes the final draft of the Rio Salado Master Plan.

1987 – Maricopa County voters reject a property tax increase to pay for the greenbelt, but Tempe residents favor the idea and Mitchell says Tempe will implement its part

of the plan.

1988 – Tempe acquires land on the north side of the riverbed from Salt River Project.

1989 – Tempe has full-time staff devoted to the project and earmarks funds for it.

1996 – Tempe issues requests for qualifications to manufacturers of inflatable dams.

1997 – Construction contracts are issued; groundbreaking for Tempe Town Lake is held on Aug. 8.

1999 – Water from Central Arizona Project starts flowing into the lake. It’s full by July 14 and opens to the public on Nov. 7.

2004 – SRP Town Lake Marina opens on the north bank.

2007 – Tempe Center for the Arts opens on the south bank in September.

July 20, 2010 – One of the eight inflatable dams bursts at 9:44 p.m.; nearly a billion gallons of water gush from the lake. The lake reopens three months later, using temporary dams as Tempe seeks a more permanent dam system.

– The lake is drained again for dam construction and is refilled in April.

–

Source: City of Tempe

Town Lake community celebration open to all

AFN NEWS STAFF

The community celebration of Tempe Town Lake’s 20th anniversary won’t just be a look back. It also is a preview of what lies ahead.

City spokeswoman Melissa Quillard said the Nov. 9 party will reflect elements of a Town Lake master plan adopted by the City Council last year. The plan divides the area around the lake into six themed zones, each of which will be activated for free events between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Quillard broke it down this way:

NORTH SIDE

Adventure Zone: Zip line, rock wall, game stations.

Athletic Zone: ASU volleyball tournament, recreation classes, fishing.

Marina: Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, rowing demonstrations, yoga classes, dragon boat rides, sailing tours.

SOUTH SIDE

Arts and Eco Zone: Gallery at the Tempe Center for the Arts, public art displays, bird-watching, NASA cloud viewing, water

talks, Tai Chi classes.

Entertainment Zone: Live music all day at Beach Park, food trucks, city and sponsor booths.

Riviera: Boardwalk experience with mini Sixth Street Market, games, exhibits, zumba classes.

Free water taxis will shuttle folks cross the water to the activity zones.

The aim, Quillard said, to use the day as “a preview of what it’s going to be like in the next 20 years” as the lake and its surrounding areas mature.

Parking shouldn’t be an issue, she said, even though it will be Family Weekend at Arizona State University and ASU is hosting Southern Cal for a football game that day.

Parking will be available west of the arts center, other downtown spaces are available, and access also is available via light rail and its numerous park-and-rides.

In addition to the public event, Tempe is sponsoring a business mixer at the arts center 4-7 p.m. on Nov. 8 to emphasize the economic opportunities generated by the lake.

That event, although free, requires an RSVP. Details are available at Tempe.gov/lake.

Town Lake spurs major river restoration hopes

BY GARY NELSON AFN Contributor

The grand vision of a restored Salt River channel through the Valley didn’t die when Maricopa County voters rejected the Rio Salado project in 1987.

Revived efforts to restore the riverbed are being incubated in the same place that birthed the first Rio Salado proposal: Arizona State University.

Variously referred to as Rio Salado 2.0 or Rio Reimagined, the plans encompass an area from Granite Reef Dam in east Mesa to the Tres Rios Wetlands, a constructed wetland complex for wastewater treatment at roughly 91st Avenue in the West Valley.

The idea got a major boost from the late U.S. Sen. John McCain in August 2017.

Neil Giuliano, Tempe mayor when Town Lake opened in 1999, is president and CEO of Greater Phoenix Leadership – a cohort of business leaders, educators and others focused on identifying and solving problems in the Valley.

ASU, Giuliano said, is “playing the role of

facilitator for the various jurisdictions to get everybody to coordinate and communicate about what needs to happen along the entire stretch of the river bottom.”

And it won’t be a one-size-fits-all effort.

“Every jurisdiction will have a different need,” Giuliano said. “They have different geography, they have different flood control needs, so every community is going to have to implement in a way that fits them best.”

Current Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell said while there may be an overall master plan for the riverbed, each jurisdiction will have to decide what parts of it to implement and pay for.

Still, Giuliano said, “There can be something that weaves it all together, pulls it all together, even if it’s something as simple a very long combination of pedestrian and bike paths that connect all the jurisdictions.”

McCain said in the 2017 rollout with ASU officials: “Everybody who drives past Tempe Town Lake realizes what a success this is. Every mayor wants a Tempe Town Lake.”

www.ahwatukee.com

Change comes to Y-OPAS with new chief

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

The YMCA’s Outreach Programs for Ahwatukee Seniors has a new leader.

He’s Mark Mansir, who retired from FedEx in August 2018, as director of business sales, leading a team of 150 employees in Phoenix and overseeing an area from Colorado west, including Alaska and Hawaii.

Mansir has donned the mantle of Y-OPAS director after former director Jill Sears was named senior program director at the Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA.

Mansir and his wife Pam have lived in Ahwatukee since 2011, after moving to Arizona from Texas, where he was state director of field and inside sales for FedEx.

“My desire upon retiring from FedEx was to find a position where I could help people,” he said. “I started as a volunteer

driver – they needed someone to drive the kids from school to after-school pro-

grams at the YMCA.

“I never expected this Y-OPAS position to open up, and this is part of my dream. I’m excited to be in a position where I can help so many in my community.”

Through Y-OPAS, a cadre of volunteers assists those 62 and older with a plethora of helpful services.

Those services include free transportation to appointments including post-appointment pharmacy stops, shopping assistance, once-a-week visits in their homes, reassurance phone calls from a volunteer with whom they make a personal connection, caregiver relief and household assistance for tasks like light bulb changing or air filter replacements as well as support for seniors when discharged from the hospital.

After Mansir learned he’d been selected as the next Y-OPAS Director, he began spending more time in their office located within the YMCA on Liberty Lane.

“I’m not the kind of person who says ‘okay, the job starts Nov. 4. I’ll see you

then’,” he laughed. “I started going in, meeting people and getting to know the office.”

As of last August, Mansir has been a regular at the Ahwatukee Y, volunteering to drive students from Kyrene Monte Vista, Kyrene de la Estrella, Kyrene del Milenio and Altadena and Akimel A-al middle schools to the YMCA every day after school.

“Even though I’m Y-OPAS director, I’ll probably still be volunteering to drive them,” he smiled. “Drivers are always needed.”

“A servant leader” is how one FedEx employee described Mansir when he was at the Phoenix office of the international courier delivery services corporation. His military service may have helped hone that skill.

“I was in the U.S. Army for eight-plus years and served in the Military Police, Armor and Aviation branches,” said Man-

see Y-OPAS page 22

Baking dog treats gives vet new leash on life

BY GLENN SWAIN AFN COntributor

Steve Sturtz darts across a spacious kitchen of his Everlasting Community Services home in Ahwatukee, grabbing a bag of flour, oatmeal, peanut butter and a rolling pin.

“Wait. I may have some dough in the refrigerator,” he says, quickly changing direction.

Sturtz, a trained chef, is preparing his signature food creation: natural, healthy dog biscuits.

Sturtz makes the treats for Hospice of the Valley’s Pet Connection therapy dogs. When the organization’s Pet Therapy teams make weekly visits, patients offer the treats to the canines as a thank you for tail wags and visiting.

For the last three years Sturtz, 60, has lived with other men in a house run by Everlasting Community Services, which offers more than 70 individuals with traumatic brain injuries in 10 homes across

the Valley 24-hour monitoring and supervision by certified trained staff members.

Everlasting’s Activities and Volunteer Coordinator Kathy VanDerworp contacted Hospice of the Valley to inquire how their residents could volunteer their time and talents to patients.

“I think when people feel needed, they feel better about themselves,” VanDerworp says. “Steve takes pride in his work, and the difference in him is remarkable. He is much better mentally. He has more focus.”

“I visited with Steve and learned he had experience as a chef,” said Noellen Rivers, Hospice of the Valley fundraising and volunteer coordinator. “I actually tried to make the dog treats myself, but it was too hard. I offered Steve the job.”

Sturtz flattens the dough with a rolling

see CHEF page 26

Mark Mansir has been a longtime volunteer at the Ahwatukee Family YMCA and he has now taken over the Y Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors. (AFN)

Steve Sturtz makes dog biscuits in the kitchen of Everlasting Community Services in Ahwatukee. (Glenn Swain/Special to AFN)

Horizon Honors’ play upends Sherlock Holmes

Horizon Honors Theatre

Arts Department is offering a play this week that takes a feminist spin on the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes.

“Miss Holmes” will be presented at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 and Saturday, Nov. 9 as well as at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16 at Horizon, ember 8th at 7:30 p.m. at Horizon Honors, 16233 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. Tickets are $5 and available at the door or horizonhonors.org/fees/ specialevents.

Honors Secondary School in grades 7-12 as an anonymous note sends Miss Sherlock Holmes, played by Jocey Price, and Dr. Dorothy Watson, played by Sadie Rich, on a quest that involves a corrupt police inspector whose wives have a habit of turning up dead.

Holmes possesses one of the greatest deductive minds of her generation, but she chafes at the restraints imposed upon her by society and family. Watson struggles to make a difference at the only hospital in London that will hire female doctors.

“In a time and place where gender roles are rigidly defined, these ventional women dare to challenge societal norms by providing an unusual, but necessary, service,” a release about the play states.

Inspired by the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the play sheds new light on the Victorian world of Holmes and Watson. The cast also includes Kaylee

Arenz, Avery Jones, Olivia Carter, Anaya Sitton, Nya Salahdeen, Yaniv Golden, Ben Raimondo, Seth Gallander, Connor Davis, Zach Coy, Sam Braley, Cameron Foley, Tarek Chanouha, Connor Johnson, Jack Newsum, Tyler Agostini, Hannah Diffey, Amelia McCrory, Mia Kunasich, Nya Salahdeen, Musette Steger, Hannah Diffey, Mia Kunasich, Musette Steger, Alysson Brown, Tyler Agostini and Alysson Brown Bre Lewellen is student director and Annaliese Hensel is student tech director while Kate Bradshaw is stage manager.

The crew also includes Elisabeth Fear, Tamsyn Greger, Nya Salahdeen, Ben Raimondo, Payton Anglemyer, Elisabeth Fear, Olivia Lewis, Bridget Bradshaw, Abbey Duvall, Keira Hickie, Abbi van Amerongen, Jericho Rich, Neve Andrew, Bridget Bradshaw, Zaaron Price, Morgan Kleinjans, Owen Larsen, Luke Van Amerongen, Millie Williams, Jesse Igoe, Baylee Dean, Julia Tucker and Rebecca Harris.

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PlumbSmart Plumbing, Heating and Air Brings Compassion and Quality to Home Repair

No one looks forward to the day they’re faced with a plumbing, heating or air conditioning problem — especially when they’re expensive, inconvenient and di cult to understand.

at’s why PlumbSmart Plumbing Heating and Air focuses on providing a ordable prices, high-quality service and reliable repairs backed by lifetime warranties. e company has been voted the top plumber in Mesa, has nearly one thousand ve-star reviews and has a Better Business Bureau A+ rating to show how well its approach works.

Owner Wayne Decker has 45 years of experience in the industry and began his business to give homeowners an advocate in the plumbing, heating and air conditioning industry who wouldn’t overcharge them and would provide top-quality work.

“I started PlumbSmart as an answer to an industry where basically it preys on the ignorance of homeowners, like auto repair and other home services,” said Wayne. “ ey charge too much. In fact, every one of our company trucks now has our motto, “Plumbers Charge Too Much!” because they do industry-wide.”

For Wayne, building his family owned and operated business is about forming relationships with customers and taking care of people with transparency and kindness.

“We want to be all things to all people,” said Wayne. “If it’s a single mom and she’s living paycheck to paycheck or an elderly couple who are on a xed income, we’re going to x their problem. We’re going to work with them in whatever way we need to and that includes benevolent repairs.”

In fact, this summer, when a customer called PlumbSmart because her

For Wayne and Karry Decker, building a family owned and operated business is about forming relationships with customers and taking care of people with transparency and kindness.

home air conditioning went out and she didn’t have the means to pay for the repair, PlumbSmart took care of it for free.

Wayne sets an example of benevolence for his team in how he treats customers and them, providing competitive pay, bene ts and access to the latest equipment, and expects them to treat customers with the same level of care.

“We remind our guys that they’re servants,” he said. “Life is really, really tough and when they have somebody that’s pleasant and caring, especially about their pocketbook, that matters. You want a servant in your home. You want somebody that’s on your side, not somebody that’s telling things you don’t really understand and giving you a price that shocks you.”

at approach has lead to a low turnover rate amongst employees, with no one quitting the company, and a clientele of only satis ed customers.

“I will not allow there to be a complaint against me that I’m aware of, whether it’s money back, redoing it, whatever it takes,” said Wayne. “If a customer lets us know, and we try our best to get a hold of them, we’ll solve the problem.”

PlumbSmart even gives its customers the knowledge they need to complete a repair themselves or understand where the problem in their home might be coming from. Not only does their website have an extensive FAQ and informative blog, Wayne welcomes customers to call and ask questions.

“We have no problem with a customer calling us and saying, ‘Hey we want to change out our own garbage disposal, can you kind of look over my shoulder over the phone and tell me what to look out for and give some tips,’” he said.

Plumbsmart is located at 3010 E. Main St. in Mesa. To learn more, call (480) 654-8865 or visit itsjustplumbsmart.com.

Ahwatukee residents and Horizon Honors students Jocey Price, left, and Yaniv Golden play Miss Holmes and Mycroft Holmes, respectively. (Special to AFN)

sir. “I served as an AH-1s Attack Helicopter pilot and an instructor pilot on the UH-1 Huey.”

He recalled a special moment in Georgia. where, as an MP, he was assigned as security for then-President Jimmy Carter.

Mansir praised Sears for her work and dedication as Y-OPAS Director.

“She was invaluable to Y-OPAS over the years and she made the transition an easy one for me,” he said. “I know she will be missed by all, but we’re happy for her new position at the Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA.”

A 19-year Ahwatukee resident, Sears volunteered at Y-OPAS before being named director. Prior to that, she’d been a youth ministry leader and community outreach leader at Desert Foothills United Methodist Church.

“I knew from my first Y-OPAS experience that I wanted to be a part of this wonderful and caring group,” she said. “I am passionate about connecting people in our community for good. And the Y-OPAS volunteers are some of the most giving and fun people I know.”

She recounted a few memorable accomplishments during her tenure.

“This past year, the book sale was big-

ger and better under our new shade sails,” she said, speaking of the popular spring event held the past 11 years.

“And, through one of our grants, we instituted a program in partnership with Rebuilding Together, which allows us to provide safety equipment installations in the home – that’s a program I’m most proud of,” she continued, noting:

“Those grab bars and ramps are things that can keep people safe at home. Over the years we’ve helped so many people

live well and age successfully - it has been very rewarding.”

In her new role at Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA, Sears will support Membership, healthy living and community outreach which includes their I-Learn Program – an alternative high school in the Chandler Unified School District.

“I’m happy for Mark to come in and put his skills and talents to work making Y-OPAS better and better,” she said.

As new to the program as Mansir is, he is quick to tout some free services provided and upcoming events for Ahwatukee seniors at Y-OPAS.

What began in 2001, at Mountain View Lutheran Church, is now a YMCA program, since 2006.

Its stated objective is to “meet the needs of the growing senior population in Ahwatukee, with the goal of enabling our seniors to maintain independent living in their homes.”

Like his predecessor, Mansir said there is always a crucial need for volunteer drivers to help area seniors.

In addition to the services, Y-OPAS hosts monthly luncheons and special outings to help keep seniors plugged in with others in the community.

“Every month we host a luncheon for our seniors,” said Mansir. “On Nov. 12,

we’re having a potluck and we’re providing the turkey and asking guests to bring along their favorite side dish.”

Mansir and volunteers are also gearing up for one of the season’s highlights – the Y-OPAS Holiday Lights Tour.

“Monday, Dec. 16, is our two-hour tour on YMCA buses viewing local residential light displays, and followed by refreshments served by youth at the YMCA,” he said.

Early registration is crucial as only 24 members can be accommodated.

“It’s a very popular event enjoyed by many, and growing each year.”

Mansir’s enthusiasm for his new position is palpable, as is his oft-repeated desire to help others – and now especially, Ahwatukee’s seniors.

“I’ve always felt that if I didn’t make a difference in people’s lives - at work or not, then I’ve failed. Along with that thought is a Pericles quote that I love and live by: “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others”. My hope is to leave a great legacy of making a difference in Ahwatukee.”

Inforrmation: ValleyYMCA.org/opas, or phone the Y-OPAS of�ice at 602-2126088.

Longtime Y-OPAS director Jill Sears has moved to a new position in Chandler. (Special to AFN)

10th annual Chuck Wagon cook-off rolls into area next weekend

Apopular event where people get a taste of history as they chow down on meat, beans, bread and other food cooked outside of old-fashioned chuck wagons is coming to Chandler’s Tumbleweed Ranch next weekend.

The main event is the Dutch oven cooking competition on Nov. 9, featuring 1880s style chuck wagon teams cooking five courses over a wood fire: meat, potatoes, beans, bread and dessert.

The meals judged the tastiest get cash prizes at the event, sponsored by the Chandler Museum in partnership with Pardners of Tumbleweed Ranch. The Ranch is an event space within Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Road.

Pardners of Tumbleweed Ranch is a nonprofit organization of volunteers who help interpret Chandler’s agricultural heritage through programs and events, while also enhancing Tumbleweed Ranch’s amenities through the donation of money, resources and time.

While the main culinary competition is on Saturday, this year’s event has expanded into Friday evening, Nov. 8, with a beer garden, live music, dancing and food from

6-10 p.m.

The five-piece classic country band, Rhondavous, will entertain and a limited amount of small plates will be available for purchase from some of the participating chuck wagon teams. Admission is $10.

On Saturday, the Chuck Wagon Cook-off runs from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with free parking, admission and activities. A limited number of tickets for Saturday’s noon meal are available to purchase starting at 10 a.m.

Each wagon cooks 60 meals and the

tickets always sell out quickly. Meals are served at noon, for one hour, tickets are $15 and available on a first-come, firstserved basis; there are no pre-sales for competition meals.

“The old west chuck wagon was the first food truck and the black iron pot, called a Dutch oven or camp oven, was the original slow cooker. Both of them will be center stage at this year’s Chandler Chuck Wagon Cook-off,” said Dave McDowell, president of the Pardners of Tumbleweed Ranch.

“These meals are prepared by some of the best and most creative open fire cooks in the southwest. It will be comfort food at its best,” McDowell added.

Saturday’s entertainment and activities include music from bluegrass band Old Blue, cooking demonstrations from the Gidgee Gang Aussie Bush Kitchen, trick roping with Cowboy Steve, a Lil’ Rustlers kids’ area, educational activities from the Chandler Museum and more.

Vendors selling unique gift items, western wares, and food are onsite throughout the event.

“We’re excited to celebrate 10 years of the Chandler Chuck Wagon Cook-off this year,” said museum Administrator Jody Crago. “We started the first year with just five chuckwagons and this year we will have 11 wagons. It’s exciting to see the growth and popularity of this event in the community.”

Adults will be dressed in cowboy boots, dresses and other clothes worn in the 1880s as they work out of the chuck wagons. The cooks can only use ingredients and tools ranchers who drove their herds of cattle to railheads would have had ac-

see CHUCKWAGON page 25

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU from Page 40

Good chow and informative presentations are on the menu for the Chandler Museum's 10th annual Chuck Wagon Cookoff next weekend at Tumbleweed Ranch inside Tumbleweed Park. (File photo)

Kyrene sets the bar among peer districts for classroom spending and teacher salaries

Options for every family, with 11 choice programs across 25 campuses

LEARN LEAD ACHIEVE

Discover Kyrene Showcase Nights in November and December

Enrollment for the 2020-21 school year begins January 13, and planning for next year is already underway. Kyrene School District invites families to discover everything our schools have to offer, prior to enrollment, with a series of School Showcase Nights.

Kindergarten and preschool families are encouraged to attend Showcase Nights at elementary schools, beginning in November, and incoming 6th grade families are encouraged to join us for Showcase Nights at our middle schools, beginning in December.

Home to 15 A+ Schools of Excellence and some of the highest-ranked schools in AZ

Enrollment begins January 13

For a complete list of event dates and times, visit www.kyrene.org/showcase.

www.kyrene.org/discover |

Thanksgiving weekend ‘Tukee Trot’ could become new local tradition

A group of Ahwatukee residents wants to start a new Thanksgiving weekend tradition with a “Tukee Trot 5K Run/Walk.”

The event will be held at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 29, starting at Desert Vista High School. The 3.1-mile, chip-timed race will end with awards for all finishers.

At the same time organizers will hold a mile Quail Fun Run around Desert Vista Canyon for youngsters 11 and under. This is a fundraiser to support the Kyrene Foundation and Family Resource Center and sign-up is $25.

Register early online and get a sized dri-fit shirt. See the ad elsewhere in today’s AFN. Register at raceroster.com/ events/2019/26605/tukee-trot-5k.

In-home cooking school slates

November classes in bread, vegan

Ron and Emma Rocco conduct the Phoenician Oasis cooking classes in their Ahwatukee home with lessons in low-fat, low-sodium and low-sugar. French, vegan and international cuisine while students sip wine and eat gourmet hors d’oeuvres.

Bread classes are Nov. 9 and 30 and vegan classes are Nov. 23 and Dec. 1 Details: phoenicianoasis.com or call 480-888-5521

Body

Firm in Ahwatukee o ers free stretch, foam-rolling classes

Body Firm, at 3636 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee, next to Fry’s Supermarket o ers free stretch and foam-rolling classes for 30 minutes at 11:40 a.m. Mondays.

Stretching and rolling helps loosen and break up the tension in the fascia while providing more mobility and flexibility as well as muscle performance.

No reservation required, however, but first-timers are ad-

vised to come a few minutes early to sign a waiver

Ahwatukee Tennis Club o ering free hour-long

classes Sundays

Ahwatukee Tennis Club is hosting a free beginner tennis clinic for people 18 years and older.

The fun one-hour clinic includes basic instruction in forehand, backhand, serves and volleys.

The four-class session will be held 1-2 p.m. on Nov. 14, 17, 24 and Dec. 1

Meet at the Ahwatukee Tennis Courts, 12432 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. Register at accinfo@ahwatukeehoa.com or call 480-893-3431, ext. 3.

Ahwatukee

Friends and Neighbors schedules luncheon at Garcia’s

Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors will hold its next luncheon Nov. 25 at Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant, 1706 E. Warner Road, Tempe, beginning with a social time at 11:30 a.m..

Nate Meador will speak about “Lost Our Home Pet Service,” the group’s charity recipient this year. Deadline to sign up is Nov. 18. For reservations: a anwomensgroup@gmail.com.

Yoga

ministry o ers free sessions at Mountain Park

Church

Elena Porter, yoga ministry director at Mountain Park Church in Ahwatukee, is o ering free meditation and yoga classes seven days a week at various times. Information: 602-625-6617.

Last muscle mania and line dancing classes of the year begin this week

Ahwatukee Certified fitness instructor Carrie McNeish has scheduled her last series of line dancing and muscle mania

classes for 2019. McNeish is o ering beginning and intermediate/advanced line dancing classes starting this week at Pecos Community Center. Tuesday evening classes are 5:30 p.m. for beginners and an hour later for intermediate/advanced. People can drop in to register. Day classes at 11:15 a.m. for beginners and 12:15 p.m. for intermediate and advanced.

The small group muscle mania classes ate 11 a.m. Mondays and 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays and people can drop in.

Information on either program: 480-221-9090, cmcneish@ cox.net, or dancemeetsfitness.net.

Edward Jones branch here collecting food items for needy families

Food hardship is a reality faced by thousands and Edward Jones’s financial advisor Nicholas Goode and Branch administrator Kathy Wagner have started a food drive to collect nonperishable food items. Edward Jones cannot accept monetary donations. Information: edwardjones.com/bagathon. Items will be donated to local food pantries.

Tickets are now on sale for 20th annual Ahwatukee Nutcracker

Tickets have gone on sale for the 20th annual presentation of the Ahwatukee Nutcracker by Kimberly Lewis.

Performances at Desert Vista High School’s Fine Arts Theatre are at noon and 5:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 1 p.m. Dec. 15.

Assigned seating tickets range from $20 to $45 and the two afternoon shows will feature the show’s traditional appearance of Santa, complete with snow. The show is a treat for oung and old alike

Tickets can be purchased at Dance Studio 111, 4910 E./ Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, by phone at 480-706-6040 or at afnutcracker.com/tickets.

Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club members will be hosting 3 holiday boutiques

People will find plenty of holiday gift bargains in the next month as the Kiwanis Club of Ahwatukee hosts three-holiday boutiques.

They will include: 7 a.m.-noon Nov. 7 at the Veterans Car Show at the Ahwatukee Swim and Tennis Club, 4700 E Warner Road; noon-8 p.m. Nov. 30 at The Festival of Lights Kick-O Party in the Market Center; and 7 a.m.-noon Dec. 7 in the West USA Realty parking lot, 4505 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

Horizon Honors accepting lotter forms for 2020-21 school enrollment

Horizon Honors Schools in Ahwatukee are now accepting lottery forms for the 2020-2021 school year. Lottery Forms must be submitted online at horizonhonors.org/lottery by Jan. 20.

In addition, info sessions and tours are available for prospective families. Reservations are required and available at horizonhonors.org/enroll. The next info session is Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. Horizon Honors Schools are tuition-free, public charters with K-12 grades.

Try Art in the Garden Studio for holiday fun and making gifts

The holidays at Art in the Garden Studio o er many classes for gift giving. Customize ornaments, canvas, wine glasses, coaster sets, handmade soap and other gifts. Learn to make small watercolor paintings on your own holiday cards. Sta parties for your o ce can be held at the studio, which promises “a di erent and fun experience for everyone.” Experience not necessary.

Information: artinthegardenstudio.com or 480-302-1304. The studio is at 4221 E. Chandler Blvd.

pin, gently presses his dove- and heartshaped cookie cutters into the watered flour and oatmeal mix and then bakes them in a bread machine.

He estimates he’s made thousands of dog biscuits in the last year.

For Sturtz, it’s a way of giving back to others in a recipe of eggs, peanut butter, applesauce, oatmeal, effort – and love.

It’s also a way of healing from a violent assault many years ago.

In November 1992, Sturtz, fresh out of the Air Force after 15 years of service, was a bartender at a club in Tucson.

One day a former employee returned to the bar with robbery in mind. During the crime, Sturtz was assaulted with a piece of two-by-four.

The assailant violently struck Sturtz five times in the back of his head and left him for dead. The attacker was caught, tried and convicted of armed robbery.

“I lost most of my memory,” Sturtz said. “I was married at the time. After the assault, I felt out of place at home. I couldn’t remember who they [his wife and two sons] were. I was an outsider living in my house. I felt it better to move along and try to recover and get back on with my life.”

For eight months, Sturtz lived on the

streets of Tucson.

He eventually moved to Florida, where he trained to be a chef. Over the years, Sturtz has been in a number of programs to treat his brain injury. Now, he’s also dealing with spinal scoliosis and kidney disease.

“I can’t live by myself again,” he said, holding his rolling pin. “I can’t manage my meds on my own. I can’t keep it straight.”

As another batch of dog treats is nearly done, Sturtz mentions a bucket list item

“I would love to fly in a jet fighter again,” he said with excitement. “I once flew in an F-16 over the waters of South Florida.

“The pilot even let me steer for a while. I know I won’t be able to fly in a jet plane like that again because of my head injury, but if I could I would do it anyway. What a way to go out.”

Finished with his kitchen duties, Sturtz walks into the living room and passes a framed poster on the wall with a simple message: Be Calm and Carry On.

Real Estate Guide

People looking to buy a home in Ahwatukee might want to cast their eyes on what’s in 85045.

The Cromford Report, which studies the Valley housing market closely, reported last week that ZIP code is one of about two dozen in the Phoenix metro region that showed “a significant increase in active listings.”

On the other hand, if your heart is set on finding something in 85044, lots of luck. That Ahwatukee ZIP is one of another three dozen that had “fewer single-family active listings on Nov. 1 than they had a month earlier,” Cromford reported.

In all, 16 Phoenix ZIPs followed that lower-inventory trend, as well as three in Mesa, three in the Chandler-Sun Lakes area, two in western Tempe. Three in Scottsdale and 16 more in places like Maricopa, Glendale and Peoria.

Six other Phoenix ZIP codes showed an increase in active listings, along with 85224 in Chandler, 85281 in Tempe, two in south Gilbert, three in Mesa, two in Scottsdale and 25 in places as far away as Wickenburg and Gold Canyon.

Inventory has bedeviled the Maricopa and Pinal County housing markets

CODES page �e7

Mike Mendoza

This palatial 11,000-square-foot compound on S. Rockhill Road in Ahwatukee appears to be the highest priced house at the moment in the community. Listed by Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living, the 25-year hold home, which has up to 10 bedrooms and seven baths, on nearly 5 acres of mountainside property, was designed by architect Kevin Bain as a "study in angles and planes" with an eye toward melding its geometry with the craggy slope it's built on. It's built around an atrium with three-story-high windows with cascading water in the background. Originally intended as a winter home, it has several layers of decks and patios, an incredibly elegant extra-big dining room, five fireplaces, a children's playground, a a sauna and eercise room, multiple game and family rooms, a negative-edge pool. The seller also is o ering at an additional unstated price about 4.2 more acres to ensure privacy. (Special to AFN)

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Many factors affect a home’s length of time on market

Areal estate listing can tell you about a home beyond just the price – essential stats like the year the property was built and the price per square foot. But one of the most important numbers to be aware of is the days on market, or DOM – the total time the home has been listed for sale on the multiple listing service.

The DOM gives you an idea of how other buyers are reacting to the property and whether it’s priced high or low.

Properties with a high DOM are commonly referred to as “stale listings,” meaning the house has been languishing on the market for a long time.

Experts consider that a house starts becoming stale around three to five weeks –and it usually causes one of two possible reactions.

Some buyers think such homes are a bit tainted, while others believe they’ll have more bargaining power and can get the house at a steal.

First of all, let’s dispel the myth that there’s always something wrong with the house when it doesn’t sell quickly. A lot of factors could come into play.

Some homes are simply overpriced.

As homeowners progressively lower the price on the home, the perception is that something is wrong with it – and this perception sometimes keeps would-be buyers from looking at the house.

Sometimes, a high DOM may be due to factors out of the seller’s control.

“Perhaps the seller accepted a contract at some point, but it fell through because the buyer couldn’t qualify for financing,” said one Realtor.

The problem could also be the home itself. Outdated interiors or big-ticket items needing repair can scare buyers away.

“Buyers are also turned off by homes that need a new paint job, landscaping work, and upgrades to decks, floors, and appliances,” a Realtor noted.

Location could stall a home’s sale if a house is on a busy road or in a flood zone.

Even bad listing photos can tarnish buyers’ opinions before they even set foot inside.

Does a high DOM give buyers more bargaining power? Sometimes.

“Remember, market value is what a buyer is willing to pay for a home, not what a seller expects,” said one Realtor.

“Many deals may be found by salvaging stale listings,” a broker advised. “To see if I have any bargaining power, I tend to suggest presenting a low offer to see how the seller will react.”

Just be aware: Sellers aren’t always desperate, regardless of how long the home has been on the market.

“Some are just fishing for the highest price they can get and won’t sell unless they

get the price that they have in mind,” said the broker, recommending that buyers use a Realtor to find out why the homeowner wants to sell.

That can help determine if there is room for bargaining.

For example, the sellers may just be testing the market and not desperate to sell and may not be willing to take less than they’re asking.

However, if circumstances dictate that they have to sell the home, you’re dealing with a motivated seller and can negotiate accordingly.

Finding a house with a high DOM that actually meets all your criteria may feel like finding a designer blouse at the bottom of a bargain bin, but don’t get excited just yet.

You may be able to strike a deal, but the first move is to understand why the house is overpriced.

A home inspector will reveal the house’s flaw that may cost you an arm and a leg to repair. But a contingency will give you the right to back out of the sale if something looks fishy.

This report was provided by Realtor. com.

You might think twice before co-signing a mortgage

If you’re considering co-signing a mortgage, it’s wise to take a step back and consider whether this move makes sense.

Sure, you’re helping a loved one purchase property, but this type of arrangement could also pose a risk to your own finances – not to mention your relationship with the co-signee.

When a home buyer uses a co-signer, the buyer becomes what’s known as the “occupying borrower” –the person who is going to be living in the home. The co-signer –usually a relative or friend of the occupying borrower – is someone who typically doesn’t live at the property.

Co-signers physically sign the mortgage or deed of trust in order to add the security of their income and credit history against the loan.

In turn, both parties take on the financial risk of the mortgage together. Of the occupying borrower defaults on the loan, the co-signer is expected to cough up the cash. To qualify as a co-signer, you must have a strong credit history and good income, says Ray Rodriguez, regional sales manag-

er at TD Bank. Co-signers get vetted just as ordinary borrowers do – they have their income, credit history, credit score, assets, and debts scrutinized by a lender.

If anything affects the occupying borrower’s financial health, the co-signer is responsible for the [mortgage] payments.

Moreover, if the occupying borrower misses a mortgage payment, that blemish can go on your credit report, potentially damaging your credit score significantly.

Another thing to consider: When you cosign a mortgage, you’re adding that person’s debt to your own, reducing your own borrowing power.

“Your chance of getting a loan yourself in the future could be in jeopardy,” warns Realtor Janine Acquafredda.

When you co-sign a financial product –whether it be a mortgage, a car loan, or a credit card – you could get burned.

In fact, in a 2016 CreditCards.com survey of 2,003 U.S. adults, 38 percent of co-signers said they had to pay a part of or the entire loan or credit card bill because the primary borrower failed to do so.

Furthermore, 28 percent reported they suffered a drop in their credit score because the person they co-signed for paid late or not at all.

Most often, people co-sign mortgages for their friends or family – but co-signing inherently puts the relationship in jeopardy.

Proof: Of respondents in the CreditCards. com survey, 26 percent said the co-signing experience damaged the relationship with

the person they had co-signed for.

There are several safeguards you can put in place to protect yourself as a co-signer.

First, make sure your name is put on the title of the home. That way, if your borrower can’t pay the mortgage, you have the power to sell the property.

Second, take steps to monitor your co-borrower’s mortgage payments. You can do this by setting up email and text alerts to let you know when mortgage payments are posted, or asking the mortgage lender to notify you if the borrower misses a mortgage payment.

This offers a nice protection, since every home loan agreement offers borrowers a grace period for late payments.

You’ll also want to establish clear lines of communication between you and your co-signee—and make sure the person knows how to contact you if he or she has a problem with the mortgage.

Before offering to become someone’s co-signer, ask yourself whether you truly trust the other person to be financially responsible for making the mortgage payments.

SPOTLIGHT TLIGHT home

PRISTINE CUSTOM ESTATE LOCATED IN GATED CALABREA, BEST LOCATION NEAR THE NEW LOOP 202!!!! COMPLETE WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY BUILD AND FINISHES, GRAND FOYER, FORMAL DINING ROOM, FAMILY ROOM W/FIREPLACE, GOURMET KITCHEN INCLUDES: SLAB GRANITE COUNTERS, ALDER CABINETS, ISLAND, S/S APPLIANCES, GAS COOKTOP, HOOD, WARMING DRAWER, 2 WINE FRIDGES & PANTRY, EXECUTIVE OFFICE W/BUILTINS, MEDIA/THEATER ROOM W/105 INCH SCREEN, MASTER BEDROOM W/STUNNING MOUNTAIN VIEWS, MASTER BATH W/ DUAL VANITIES, SOAKING TUB & WALK-IN SHOWER, GUEST BEDROOM W/ENSUITE BATH, TRAVERTINE & HARDWOOD FLOORING BASEMENT INC: FULL WETBAR, LARGE FAMILY ROOM & TWO BEDROOMS PERFECT FOR GUESTS OR TEENS, PEACEFUL RESORT BACKYARD W/DREAM VIEWS, COVERED PATIO, FIREPLACE, PEBBLE SHEEN POOL, TURF, GARAGE W/STORAGE. THIS LUXURIOUS ESTATE IS A PERFECT 10!!!

Listed for $1,099,000

3,128 sqft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Experience the luxury and upgrades of a custom home without the price! This exquisite home on a large, waterfront, corner lot leaves nothing to the imagination. From the moment you open the oversized, Custom iron door you will find that no upgrade has been overlooked This popular, open concept floorplan with convenient downstairs master has exquisite finishings, custom cabinetry, custom wrought iron and oak staircases, whole house speaker system, custom oversized master stone shower, bonus loft with upgraded wet bar, upper balcony with spiral staircase down to master, custom negative edge pool, multiple patio areas for entertaining, boat dock and so much more. This home is truly an entertainer’s dream. Over $80,000 in landscape upgrades and new exterior paint in 2018!

Listed for $649,900

Outstanding custom home, perched on large hillside lot showcasing spectacular city lights and mountain views. Eat-in kitchen boasts granite countertops, cherry-finished panel cabinetry, new stainless steel appliances and sun-filled dining area. Coveted features include jaw dropping views of Four Peaks, exposed viga beams, plus freshly painted interior and exterior. Expansive great room with large picture windows, wet bar, fireplace and adjacent to media room. Grand master suite with sitting area, spacious walk-in closet, exposed viga beams and full bath. Backyard amenities encompass walk-out private office/game room with loft and access to astonishing exterior with vast, oversized covered patios, fountain, brand new built-in BBQ and negative edge Pebble Tec play pool. Fabulous ample space to entertain.

Listed for $1,100,000

764 W Desert Broom Drive

Fannie Mae and Mac prepare for privatization

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may stop offering certain mortgages as they prepare to privatize, but borrowers won’t be left behind, the companies’ chief regulator said recently.

When the Trump administration released its plans for housing finance reform in September, one key element was to identify overlaps between the loan products offered by Fannie and Freddie and those insured by the Federal Housing Administration.

“Fannie and Freddie must not repeat the mistakes of the crisis by stretching to serve borrowers who are better served by FHA,” said Mark Calabria, FHFA director

The Federal Housing Finance Agency put that recommendation into action Monday when it released its new strategic plan and “scorecard” for Fannie and Freddie.

Through the scorecard, the FHFA outlined the priorities for Fannie and Freddie for the next year. For the first time, the agency is requiring the two enterprises to come up with plans for how they will exit conservatorship.

In 2020, the FHFA will require Fannie and Freddie to assist regulators in deter-

mining what overlaps exist between the two enterprises and the FHA.

“Thoughtfully addressing these overlaps makes sense for both the Enterprises and FHA because they were created to perform different roles in our housing finance system,” Calabria said, adding:

“In order to prepare to responsibly exit conservatorship, Fannie and Freddie must not repeat the mistakes of the crisis by stretching to serve borrowers who are better served by FHA.”

But Calabria argued that having Fannie and Freddie move away from this market wouldn’t result in prospective borrowers having fewer options for home financing.

“The intention is that there are no gaps,” he told reporters during a separate briefing. “The intention is to take a holistic view point, rather than have an approach where Fannie, Freddie and FHA are all fighting for market share.”

Historically, Fannie and Freddie have competed for market share with the FHA, and in recent years the two enterprises have offered more mortgages with low down payments and to borrowers with high debt-to-income ratios, similar to the types of loans the FHA was designed to offer to lower- and moderate-income Americans.

Those loans are riskier for lenders however, because the borrower has less equity in the property and more debt to grapple with, which can cause problems in an economic downturn.

The dollar amount in loans that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac own or guarantee is roughly 500 times larger than the amount they have in capital reserves.

Fannie and Freddie tend to serve borrowers with better credit scores, even when offering products similar to the FHA’s. That’s left the FHA, which is fully taxpayer-backed, with a riskier pool of loans.

“That decreases the credit quality of FHA and forces FHA in the long run to raise premiums,” Calabria said. “If you do that long enough, you don’t have anybody left except the worst credit risks.”

Separately, Calabria once again raised the alarm regarding the risk that Fannie and Freddie could fail again.

Currently, the dollar amount in loans that the two enterprises own or guarantee is roughly 500 times larger than the amount they have in capital reserves.

As a result, timing is posing the greatest challenge to the FHFA’s efforts to get Fannie and Freddie out of conservatorship. Realtor.com provided this report.

all year – driven largely by the influx of out-of-state residents relocating here. While Cromford reported that tight inventory might loosen up over the next two months because of the holidays, it indicated buyers shouldn’t be too happy.

“We are still in a market that strongly favors sellers,” it said. It further stated pricing is "beginning to take off and has a lot of upward momentum building" with "little sign of supply substantially increasing." Core Logic, a national property data entity said home prices in Arizona rose 5.1 percent over the past year - higher than the national average of 3.5 percent. It predicted prices would rise an average 5.6 percent national over the coming year.

Past behavior is a good predictor of future behavior. If the person has had trouble making credit card payments or has a pattern of not meeting other financial obligations, he or she may not be responsible enough to be taking on a mortgage, especially one that has your name attached to it. Realtor.com provided this report.

CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Book Discussion Club

Read the book and join each lively discussion. November’s Read: Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann. For December, choose to read one of these books: Circling the Sun by Paula McLain or West with the Night by Beryl Markham.

DETAILS>> 7-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages: Adult. Free. No registration required.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7

Discovery Time

On the first Thursday of each month science concepts are introduced in this storytime for children 3-5.

DETAILS>> 6:30-7:15 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages: 3-5 years. Free. Tickets are limited & available in the library 30 minutes before program start time.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9

Library Teen Council

LTC meets the second Saturday of every month to plan teen events at Ironwood Library. Join us to earn community service hours, make friends, and have fun.

DETAILS>> 2-3 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages: 12-17 years. Free. No registration required.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

LEGO Lab

Children accompanied by an adult can stop by for fun LEGO building time the second Tuesday of each month. DETAILS>> 4:30-5:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages 6-11 years. Free. No registration required.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14

Knitting for a cause

Join our volunteer-led group of knitters and crocheters as we meet up to crochet or knit blankets to give to non-profit organizations that assist children and families in crisis or transition. Please bring your own knitting or crocheting tools, and your own yarn if you would like. Yarn will also be provided. Basic knitting and/or crocheting skills required. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Phoenix Public Library Ironwood Chapter. DETAILS>> 6:30-7:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages: Adults. Free. No registration required.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

Summit School open house

Summit School invites parents interested in learning more about Summit to come spend the morning 8:30–10:15 a.m. They can meet with campus leadership, see classes in action, and have a Q & A session with a student panel. RSVP: summitschoolaz. org/admissions/open-house.

Ironwood Writers critique

Bring five double-spaced pages of writing to get feedback from your fellow writers.

DETAILS>> 6:00-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages: Adults. Free. No registration required.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23

Fall fest is free

Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori will be hosting its annual Fall Festival. This is a free event is opened to the Ahwatukee community. Activities will include: a petting zoo, cookie decorating, face painting, seasonal crafts, a bounce house, an inflatable slide, and games. Several clowns will perform magic shows and a guest who will be creating balloon animals for the children. There will be henna painting for grown-ups the Queso Good

food truck will sell cheesy treats.

DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24

Pre-Thanksgiving service

In celebration of Thanksgiving, families get together to worship and have a harvest feast at Lamb of God Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee. The church invites individuals and families to a service thanking “the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind.” All are welcome.

DETAILS>> 599 E. Chandler Blvd. Worship, 9:30 a.m.; Bible Study/Sunday School, 10:45 a.m. Information: 480-283-8329.

SUNDAYS

Free tutoring

Volunteer Desert Vista High School peer tutors will assist with projects and homework. It’s first-come, first-served, so sign in at the tutoring table and wait for your turn.

DETAILS>> Sundays through Dec. 15, 2-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages: 6-1. Free. No registration required.

TinkerTime

Explore hands-on creative ways to design, experiment and invent while learning about science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) through tinkering

DETAILS>> 2-4 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 6-11. Free. No registration required.

Learn gardening from pros

Learn desert gardening by getting your hands dirty with the Ahwatukee Community Gardening Project. Share in the knowledge, the produce and the smiles. All ages welcome Bring sun protection and water, tools optional.

DETAILS>> 8-9:15 a.m. in the northwest corner of the park at 4700 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee, behind the guitar player at the Ahwatukee Farmers Market, which is open 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Information: acgarden.org or 480-759-5338.

Chess, knitters clubs

Two clubs meet in Ahwatukee every Sunday the chess club for players at all skill levels and Knitters Anonymous for all levels of knitters and people who crochet.

DETAILS>> The Chess Club meets at 11 a.m. and Knitters Anonymous meets at 2 p.m. For either club, call 602-405-6320 for more information.

Bible Study

A journey through Leviticus that is biblically accurate and understandable for everyone. Learn the historical perspective which reveals the love of God for all His people. Technology and questions are both encouraged.

DETAILS>> 9:15 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee, 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org/classes.

MONDAYS

Gentle yoga at Pecos

People can start their week with a gentle yoga class. Be mindful and caring for yourself. Sessions are typically five to six weeks long. You can also “drop-in” to individual classes.

DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m. at Pecos Community Center in Ahwatukee. Register: phoenix.gov/parks/classes-and-programs. Go to adult classes and search gentle yoga. You can also register at Pecos Center or call 602-495-5500.

LD 18 Dems meet monthly

Legislative District 18 Democrats gather monthly, usually the second Monday, to share news, opportunities, food and laugh-

ter. Meetings include guest speakers, legislative updates, howto sessions and Q&A. Volunteer or just enjoy an evening with like-minded folks.

DETAILS>> For times and places: ld18democrats.org/calendar.

Babytime for walkers

Babies up to 23 months who are walking and are accompanied by a favorite adult enjoy Babytime with American Sign Language for Walkers, with songs, activities to promote movement, rhymes, books and playtime in each lively session. Closed Nov. 11

DETAILS>> 9:30-10 a.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages walking to 23 months. Free. Tickets are limited & available in the library 30 minutes before program start time.

Babytime for crawlers

Accompanied by a favorite adult, babies birth to crawling can enjoy songs, music, rhymes, books, interactive stories, simple American Sign Language words, activities to promote movement, and playtime. Closed Nov. 11

DETAILS>> 10:30-11 a.m. Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages birth to crawling. Free. Tickets are limited & available in the library 30 minutes before program start time.

Desert Pointe gardeners meet

Desert Pointe Garden Club meets on the first Monday of the month with special programs.

DETAILS>> 9 a.m., Ahwatukee Rec Center, 5001 E. Cheyenne Drive, Ahwatukee. Information: 602 478 6732 or dpgc.org.

TUESDAYS

Yoga Guided Meditation

Instructors from the nonprofit organization Life Empowerment Yoga Guided Meditation and Reflexology will lead participants

on a guided tour of how to center the mind-body connection through the practice of yoga and meditation. Please bring a yoga mat or large towel.

DETAILS>> Tuesdays through Dec. 17. 1:30- 2:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages: Adults. Free. No registration required.

Ladies golf

The Foothills Golf Course Ladies League meets every Tuesday to play 18 holes of handicap golf from September through May. Play includes weekly games, prizes and friendly competition.

DETAILS>> Call Lucille Heid at 602-692-7839 or Shayron Conrad at 602-339-8707.

Patriotic playgroup

Parents looking for playtime for their kids and, for themselves, stimulating conversations rooted in family, faith and conservatism can gather ever second Tuesday of the month.

DETAILS>> 9-11 a.m. Pecos Park playground. 17010 S. 48th St., Phoenix. Check ld18gop.com for more DETAILS or contact: ld18gop@gmail.com

Estrangement support

Although rarely discussed, family estrangement is far more common than most people realize. The estranged su er from loneliness, lack of self-esteem, guilt, anger and depression. Desert Foothills United Methodist Church provides a support group that meets the first Tuesday of every month. The public is invited to the “Living Loss” sessions. No questions asked, and anonymity will be respected.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., first Tuesday of every month; 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. Use Entry B. Free. Information: 480-460-1025 and o ce@desertfoothills.org.

Prayer night o ered

Ahwatukee Health and Recovery holds a weekly prayer night.

The public is invited.

DETAILS>> noon-1:30 p.m., 16515 S. 40th Str, #119, Ahwatukee. Free.

Chair yoga featured

Inner Vision Yoga Studio o ers chair yoga to help seniors and people recovering from injuries to stay fit.

DETAILS>> 1:30-2:30 p.m., 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. $6 per class. Info: 480-330-2015 or donna@innervisionyoga.com.

Toastmasters sharpen skills

Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings

DETAILS>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

French Talk Time

Brush up on your high school, college, or tourist French speaking and listening skills. Advanced level on the first and third Tuesdays of each month: an informal participant-driven conversational group. Participants should already speak French fairly well to enjoy this program. Beginner/intermediate level is on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month: a facilitator-guided conversation group. Participants should already speak some French to benefit from this program. Closed Nov. 26.

DETAILS>> 6:30-7:30 p.m.. See above for appropriate Tuesdays. Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages: Adults. Free. No registration required.

WEDNESDAYS

Book club forming

An Ahwatukee resident is hoping to start an “intellectually stimulating book club with a focus on history and/or historical fiction.

DETAILS >> The group will meet the first Wednesday of the month but time and place have not been determined. If inter-

ested, call 602-405-6320 for more information.

Meditation meetings

Frank Daly of Ish Salon conducts weekly meditation sessions designed to help participants enter a state of allowing in order to e ortlessly reach desired goals and outcomes.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., 4025 E Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: Fdaly1967@gmail.com or 602-332-3829

Kindness for Kids

Express your gratitude during the month of Thanksgiving by creating cards, kindness rocks, friendship bracelets and more to share with those you’d like to tell “Thank You.”

DETAILS>> Nov. 6, 13 and 20. 5:30-6:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages: 6-11 years. Free. No registration required.

Digital City

Through fun hands-on projects, games and crafts, children can develop coding, 3D modeling, and circuitry skills, plus sequential and computational thinking, in this “tech playground.” Co-presented by Lakewood Learning.

DETAILS>> 4-5 p.m. Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 5-12. Free. No registration required.

ToddlerTime

Toddlers 24-47 months-old, accompanied by a favorite adult, enjoy interactive activities that encourage emerging language skills such as stories, songs, games and playtime. Children and caregivers also practice Baby American Sign Language, a great way to help young children develop communication skills, in this active session.

DETAILS>> Wednesdays, 10:30-11 a.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 24-47 months. Free. Tickets are limited and available 30 minutes before program start time.

Fun with watercolors

People can get step-by-step instructions in water-coloring whether they are beginners or intermediates.

DETAILS>>2-4:30 p.m. in instructor’s home studio o Ranch Circle North in Ahwatukee. Four classes for $90. To register: Judy Lokits: 954-234-1768, or jlokits@yahoo

Celebrate Recovery

Celebrate Recovery is a Biblical 12-step program that helps you find hope and healing from all of life’s hurts, habits, and hangups. Whether it’s addiction, loss, anger, or stress, you can find the freedom you’re looking for.

DETAILS>> 6:20 PM, Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 South 48th Street, Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579, mvlutheran.org.

Economy discussion

Nicholas Goode of Edward Jones Investments conducts a monthly co ee club devoted to a discussion of current events, the economy and investing.

DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month, Dutch Bros Co ee Patio, 3215 E. Chandler Blvd. RSVP: 480-759-1324.

‘Dems and Donuts’ set

Legislative District 18 Democrats gather for an informal chat.

DETAILS>> Free and open to the public 7:30-9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Denny’s, 7400 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. RSVP: marie9@q.com or 480-592-0052.

Grief support

Hospice of the Valley holds a grief support group for adults on alternating Wednesdays.

DETAILS>> 6-7:30 p.m. at Pecos Community Center, 1710 S. 48th

S. The assigned classroom varies signs will be on-premises. It is a drop-in group and there is no need to call or register. Meeting dates this year: Jan. 23; Feb. 6 and 20; March 6 and 20; May 1, 15 and 29; June 12 and 26; July 10 and 24; Aug. 7 and 21; Sept. 4 and 18; Oct. 2, 16 and 20; Nov. 13 and 27; and Dec. 11.

THURSDAYS

Teen Thursdays @ the Library

We provide the snacks and fun; you just bring yourself and a friend for gaming, karaoke, crafting, snacks, and more! #IronwoodLibrary

DETAILS>> Thursdays, 4:00-5:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages: 12-18 years. Free. No registration required.

Chronic Conditions Self-Management

Learn techniques that address fatigue and frustration, use of medication, exercise for health, making di cult decisions, re-

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cess to in the 1880s.

The Charlie Goodnight award will be given to the individual or wagon team that “goes above and beyond,” including possibly helping another team or visiting with the public.

The flavor of the past appeals to people who attend the Chuck Wagon Cook-off, museum officials have said in the past, noting people enjoy seeing the historic methods and how they differ from what everyday food is like today.

Ranchers in the 1880s drove their herds of cattle to railheads, where the cattle

laxation strategies, and e ective communication with health professionals in this 6-week series of classes

DETAILS>> Nov. 7 and 14., 1:00-3:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages: Adult. Free. Registration is required online at aaaphx.org/event/chronic-conditions-self-management-6-weeks-4/2019-10-03.

Networking group meets

ACT Networking Group, standing for Ahwatukee, Chandler and Tempe, meets weekly.

DETAILS >> 7:45-8:45 p.m., Tukes Kafe, 15815 S. 50th St., Ahwatukee. Information: 602-418-3645.

Kiwanis meets weekly

The Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club meets weekly and welcomes newcomers.

DETAILS>>7:30 a.m. Biscuits Restaurant, 4623 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. Information: mike.maloney2003@gmail.com.

Preschoolers’ moms gather

Free childcare for ages 0 to 5.

DETAILS>> 9 a.m. second and fourth Thursday, Foothills Baptist Church, 15450 S. 21st St. Call Kim at 480-759-2118, ext. 218.

FRIDAYS

Financial peace

Financial Peace University is a nine-week video and small group class that teaches God’s plan for handling money. It will help you: pay o debt, save for the future and give like never before!

DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org/classes or fpu.com/1070125

Toastmasters meet

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce has a weekly Toastmasters meeting.

DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m., the Dignity Health Urgent Care Community Room, 4545 E Chandler Blvd, Ahwatukee (South entrance). Information: 480-753-7676 or vppr-1811442@toastmastersclubs.org

SATURDAYS

Art class in artist’s home

Ahwatukee artist Kathie Kelly says she’s o ering “the perfect opportunity for aspiring young artists to learn drawing and painting skills.”

Art Lessons for You involves “creative exploration classes for first graders and up. All forms of drawing materials and water based paints are supplied. Open enrollment and if spaces are available, drop-ins are welcome. Call to make a reservation.

DETAILS>> 12:30-2 p.m. Artlessonsforyou.com, Kathie4artlessons@gmail.com, or 480-544-6206.

Submit your releases to pmaryniak@ timespublications.com

were loaded onto trains and taken to cities in the Midwest and East to be slaughtered at stockyards.

Often, cowboys would have to travel several hundreds of miles on trails to the railhead, so the chuckwagon would ride ahead and start a fire and begin cooking food so it was ready for the cowboys.

“Chuck” is a slang term for food. A cook often called a “cookie,” was usually an older cowboy who was the “manager,” barber, entertainer and the one to settle any fights in the chuckwagon crew.

Information: pardnersoftumbleweedranch.org 480-782-2717.

CHUCKWAGON

www.ahwatukee.com

How to relate with survivors of suicide victims

BY MISSY PALRANG AFN Guest Writer

When someone chooses to end his or her life, the survivors are unwillingly forced into a world filled with grief and confusion. A world that has no road maps.

It’s a world I’m familiar with because I’m a survivor of a suicide victim.

Over the past four years, I’ve learned how to be a survivor. My learning curve included recognizing and holding onto things people said and did that helped and quietly stepping away from those that didn’t.

I’ve learned most of us don’t know what to say when someone dies by suicide. In many cases, we say or do the wrong things.

I reached out to other survivors and asked them what they found to be helpful and not helpful in the aftermath of their loved one’s suicide. These are their responses.

Thank you Gale, Amanda, Jacqui, Lisa, Susan, Carrie, Christine, Suzanne, Vanessa, Leslie, Aimee, Reva, Debbie, Abigale, Natalie, Trish, Sharyl, Morag, Elizabeth, Lezlie, Charley, Stephanie, Kristal, Shari, for your contributions.

Please don’t:

• Ask for details of our loved one’s death. “How did he do it?” “Did you find the body?”

• Ask invasive questions that have no answers. “Do you know why he did it?” “Did you have any indication he was going to?” “Did you know she was suffering?”

• Offer advice or opinions unless asked.

• Say things like, “Suicide is a sin, he’s in hell now.” “He’s in a better place now.” “At least she’s not suffering anymore.” “At least you have two other children.”

• Complain about petty things like how annoying your husband can be, bad service at a restaurant, or how much your ankle hurts.

• Say “I know how you feel” then compare this death to your divorce, loss of your beloved cat, or any other loss.

• Tell us how you felt when your grandmother died. With all due respect, we probably don’t care at the moment.

• Ask ”How are you?” The better question is “how are you today?”

• Say “Let me know if you need anything?” We won’t and in most cases don’t even know what we need.

• Ridicule, judge, blame, or minimize our situation. Don’t tell us it’s time to move on, take off our wedding ring,

or “get back in the saddle.” Don’t say, “You’re still young and have your whole life in front of you.”

Please do…

• Say things like, “I’m thinking about you.” “I’m praying for you.” “I’m sorry you’re in this terrible situation.” “We’ll get through this together.” “I’m here for you.”

• Help with practical things without being asked. Grocery shopping, cleaning, laundry, funeral arrangements, take the garbage to the curb, yard work, put gas in the car and keep a list of who brought what to the house in the days after the death.

• Pay attention to our health concerns. Encourage water, vitamins and prescribed medications.

• Research community resources and attend support group meetings with us.

• Talk about our loved ones but allow us to dictate how much is said. “I’d love to hear more about (say his or her name!) if you’d like to tell me.” “May I tell you a story about him?”

• Spend time with us and include us in group activities. “Let’s go for a walk and get some air.” “I’d like to come to your doctor’s appointment with you.” “Let’s meet for coffee.”

• Continue to reach out. Most survi-

vors report the loneliest time is several months after the death when the phone stops ringing. Put a card in the mail, send a text, make a call or stop by.

• Listen, be a shoulder to cry on. When it comes down to it, for me personally, the thing that helped the most was the time people gave me.

The time they took to sit and listen until I was all cried out, the time they took in the morning to send a text, to call just to see how I was doing - to help me overcome an obstacle I’d encountered, to attend appointments with me or to let me know they were thinking about me.

That’s it, just their time. The gifts were nice, the advice they offered was well-intended, the meals provide were helpful… but the time they shared was by far the most valuable thing anyone gave me. I was lucky, I had an army on my side. Many survivors do not. Will you be part of someone’s army?

Missy Palrang of Chandler is the author of Frantic Unleashed, Navigating Life after Suicide, A Survivors Journal – Part 1 and Frantic Caged, Navigating Life after Suicide, A Survivors Journal –Part 2. Available on Amazon. Contact the author on facebook.com/franticbooks or franticbookseries@gmail.com

American Legion modifies membership criteria

BY BRENDA SMULL AFN Guest Writer

There’s good news for military veterans who want to connect with their community and be part of a strong veteran’s service organization.

The eligibility requirements to join the American Legion have been modified and more people are now able to join.

The recent change is thanks to the Legion Act which was enacted in July 2019 and will open the door for approximately six million veterans.

The Legion Act stands for Let Everyone Get Involved in Opportunities for National Service will enable more people to join the American Legion and gain access to its benefits and programs.

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to community service and assistance.

The American Legion has 2 million members and more than 12,000 posts in communities throughout the United States.

Now that the legislation has been

signed, The American Legion’s eligibility criteria immediately change from seven war eras to two: April 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918, and Dec. 7, 1941, and continuing. No other restrictions on American Legion membership are changed.

Ahwatukee Post 64 is very active in the local Phoenix community and provides many volunteer services and support throughout the year, including:

• Honor and Color Guard – over 50 events and ceremonies last year.

• Collection of used US flags and proper retirement.

• Benefits assistance.

• Family support.

• High school oratorical contest and awards.

• Arizona Boys State sponsorship.

• School awards and scholarships.

• Homeless outreach.

• Comfort for the recovering.

• Honor and Remembrance ceremonies (POW-MIA).

• Adopt-a-Street volunteering Elliot-Warner Loop clean-up.

For more information on The American Legion, go to legion.org. To check out the Ahwatukee Post 64 website, go to americanlegionpost64.com.

www.ahwatukee.com

Office building remodels aim for millennials

AFN NEWS STAFF

Aredevelopment firm plans to invest $14 million in sprucing up two Chandler office buildings and adding amenities appealing to a younger workforce.

Yoga studios, juice bars and game rooms are some of the features George Oliver, based in Phoenix, intends to add to two buildings it recently acquired near Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard.

Curt Kremer, George Oliver’s founder, said the renovations aim to make the buildings more attractive to the millennial generation, people born between 1981 and 1996.

According to census data, millennials recently replaced Generation X as the largest group in the American workforce. This shift in the labor pool prompted some to rethink how workplace environments can be hipper and more stylish.

The kids who grew up watching Michael Scott humiliate his employees on “The Office” are thought to want something more than cubicles and conference rooms; they want a place that feels more like home.

“That millennial that everybody’s trying to hire just has a different work style than the baby boomers,” Kremer said. “It’s a lot more experiential.”

George Oliver bought a 112,000-squarefoot building in the downtown region, the longtime home to First Credit Union.

The five-story facility will be re-branded as The Alexander and offers new amenities like exercise rooms, lounge areas, a training center and a billiards room.

Kremer said the renovations will help the building’s tenants hire and retain new talent looking for trendy features reminiscent of what’s seen in Silicon Valley.

“Everybody’s kind of chasing the Google, Apple, Facebook-type campuses where they have heavy amenities,” he said. “It’s just tough to do that for smaller users.”

These big-tech companies have headquarters resembling little villages; equipped with cafes, theatres and gyms. Kremer said his firm essentially tries to resemble this model, but on a smaller scale.

In addition, George Oliver helps to host events for its tenants that give a sense of community to workers.

They provide on-site concierges to organize food truck festivals, guacamole con-

tests, and farmer markets.

“We do that because we know employees want to go and find places to work where there’s employers that work in those areas,” Kremer added. “When people are happy at work, they tend not to leave.”

First Credit Union has already signed a 10-year lease agreement with George Oliver to remain in what will eventually become The Alexander. Other potential tenants are still being negotiated.

JLL Executive Vice President Brian Ackerman, who represented First Credit Union during the deal, said his client was interested in working with George Oliver due to the firm’s track record and reputation.

“Their renovations will be a game-changer for how tenants use and enjoy these buildings,” Ackerman said in a statement, “and will keep First Credit Union and its significant jobs in downtown Chandler.”

George Oliver has also bought a 107,500-square-foot building it will redevelop as The Johnathan and include many similar features as The Alexander. The two buildings are being renamed after Dr. Alexander Jonathan Chandler, the city’s founder.

The total cost for the two buildings came out to $38.8 million.

Chandler’s downtown area has so many restaurants and entertainment venues within walking distance to the two build-

ings, Kremer added, which made this region appealing to the firm.

George Oliver has taken on redevelopment projects for buildings in Scottsdale and Phoenix – turning them into modernized offices with open layouts and plenty of lounging spaces.

The firm doesn’t have a specific design aesthetic, Kremer said, because each project is influenced by the existing real estate. George Oliver doesn’t aim to force an entirely different style of architecture on a location, he added,

George Oliver will first work on renovating The Alexander building, which it hopes to start by early 2020.

Yoga studios, juice bars, pool rooms will all be part of the $14-million remodeling of two buildings near Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard as the redevelopment firm makes them more user-friendly for millennials. (Special to AFN News)

Yoga studios, juice bars, pool rooms will all be part of the $14-million remodeling of two buildings near Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard as the redevelopment firm makes them more user-friendly for millennials. (Special to AFN News)

Don’t be seduced by the lure of Wall Street promises

BY DR. HAROLD WONG Guest Writer

Wall Street makes money either by commissions on the investments they sell or a percentage of the total assets they manage. The common pitch for most people is “I can make you more money in stocks than anyone else,”

Research done at the UC Berkeley and Stanford 40-50 years ago found this was incorrect.

We looked at a 10-year period and found that only about 5 money managers could beat the stock market averages for that decade. Warren Buffett and Sir John Templeton were two of those folks.

Buffett later became acknowledged as the single greatest stock market investor of the last 50+ years. Templeton was way ahead of the curve after World War 2 and believed that if one invested overseas, stock market returns would outperform the U.S. market.

Wall Street has told folks that you can average 8-10 percent annual returns over long periods of time. If one goes to moneychimp.com, for 1/1/2000 to 12/31/2018, the average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the S&P 500 stock market index has been 2.85 percent.

If one adds the average 1.98 percent annual dividends, one’s total ROI has been 4.83 percent. When one adjusts for inflation, it’s 2.63 percent.

For the last 30 years, the goal of all Wall Street full-service brokerage firms has been to earn at least 3 percent annual fees from money you deposit with them. If you subtract this, your ROI is negative for this century.

I’m not saying that you should not try to get the highest ROI on your investments, but you also must temper that with the risk you are willing to take.

We’ve had two major stock market crashes this century: the 2000-2002 DotCom Crash, where the NASDAQ index dropped by about 78 percent; and the 2008-2009 financial meltdown, where the stock market dropped by about half.

In 1990, Harry Max Markowitz received the Nobel Memorial Prize in economic sciences by proving that there is an “efficient frontier,” which is the ideal tradeoff of return vs. risk.

However, one cannot even approach the efficient frontier without owning at least three asset classes that are not closely correlated with traditional stocks, bonds or cash.

Alternate asset classes could include: commodities, farms, precious metals, foreign currencies, real estate, equipment leasing, and private pensions.

I have checked with people in the real estate, banking and mortgage business over the last three decades and the consensus is that only about 2 percent of the

population has even owned two rental houses or more.

For most, real estate is the alternate asset class that is easiest to understand.

To make the math easy, suppose that there are two families with the same $100,000 of annual household income.

Recent statistics show that the average

U.S. savings rate is 8 percent of after-tax disposable income.

So, if this household saves 8 percent of $80,000 disposable income, or $6,400. If they do this every year for 25 years and earn an average 6 percent net-after-fees ROI in the stock market, they will have $372,200 in their retirement account.

In contrast, if a different family saves three times as much ($19,200 annually) but earns half the ROI (3 percent), they will have $761,219 in 25 years, or double.

Instead of being seduced by Wall Street promising big returns, spend more time and effort figuring out how to up your savings rate.

What’s more important to you: a financially secure retirement or buying lots of stuff that does not create long-term happiness, joy, and love?

- Dr. Harold Wong earned his Ph.D. in economics at the University of California/Berkeley and has appeared on over 400 TV/radio programs. He can be contacted at 480-706-0177 or harold_ wong@hotmail.com. Check for future free educational seminars at drharoldwong.com.

Mt. Pointe play puts different spin on Dracula

Halloween might be over, but then again, Mountain Pointe High School Theatre Company’s new show really isn’t meant to scare you even though it revolves around one of the most notable characters in horror fiction.

Indeed, said director Suzanne Idler, who teaches computer graphic art and film/tv productions, “Dracula: Bloody Truth” aims to provoke laughter rather than screams.

The play will be presented at 6 p.m. tomorrow and Friday, Nov. 7 and 8, at Mountain Pointe’s Black Box Theater, 4201 E. Knox Road, Ahwatukee. Tickets are $7 for students and $10 for adults.

The play is from the same stable as those created by the revered Mischief Theatre Company and could actually be called “Dracula Goes Wrong,” Idler said. It’s like the movie “Scream,” with a bit of “Spamalot” and “Some Mother’s Do ‘Ave ‘Em” humor expertly molded together.

As explained by the famous vampire’s nemesis, Professor Abraham Van Helsing, Bram Stoker, who wrote the novel

started a veritable sub-genre in horror fiction, “he had it all wrong.”

Van Helsing insists Stoker wrote the novel “in a traitorous bid to further his own career.”

Van Helsing journeys across Europe with a hapless amateur theatre group as he tells his version of the renown bloodsucker.

A teacher at Mountain Pointe since 1995, Idler has directed plays at the high school long enough to recall that Pride director and teacher Corey Quinn actually appeared in her first play when he was a student.

She taught theater and English from 1995 to 2000, then took a year off. When she returned, Mountain Pointe teacher-director Jim Bonagofski got her back into the director rotation.

“ I have always been fortunate enough to direct one show a year,” said Idler, who last directed “Lend Me A Tenor.”

Idler is no stranger to the stage

She was in community theatre in high school, playing at the Glendale Centre

Chandler farm lures diners to the barn

BY KEVIN REAGAN AFN Staff Writer

The farm-to-table philosophy takes on a literal meaning when Greenhouse Gardens serves up its own produce for a five-course dinner party on Nov. 17.

After selling out its first event in March, the Chandler farm is hosting another dinner inside its vintage barn with a new menu to match its seasonal shift in vegetables.

Fifty guests will be able to sample appetizers, entrees and desserts prepared by a professional chef and made with ingredients grown on the farm.

Patrons will sit along a long table beneath strings of lights and surrounded by shelves of old gardening tools.

Cameron McChesney, co-owner of Greenhouse Gardens, said the event is intended to show guests how his farm’s carrots and cucumbers can be fancily transformed into high-end meals.

“I hope that they see that our produce can be crafted into

grew up with,” he said. McChesney and his wife, Jeannine,

bought the historic farm property, located between Gilbert and Cooper roads, a couple of years ago and hold a farmers market every Saturday.

They grow up to eight vegetables at any given time, McChesney said, averaging about 80 sales per week. The farm also supplies produce to restaurants in Chandler and Scottsdale.

The McChesneys are in the process of harvesting the last of their zucchinis, peppers and eggplants for the season. Concurrently, they are starting to plant the next round of lettuce, spinach and radishes.

The upcoming dinner event will find ways to incorporate sweet potato, roasted garlic and squash into the menu.

Appetizers will consist of chorizo meatballs with pickled veggies. The five courses will include bisque with a French-styled cream, risotto with eggplant and lobster and a sweet-corn buttermilk pie.

One course is being kept a secret as a

Theatre in Glendale, California – the the-

Greenhouse Gardens in Chandler hosted its first dinner in March and won plaudits from everyone who attended. The evening included soft music, a cocktail hour and a gourmet menu. (Greenhouse Gardens)

Patrick Keyser as Dracular looms over Trevor Stout and Lexi Artusa-Sirota during a rehearsal for “Dracula: The Bloody Truth” at Mountain Pointe High School. (Suzanne Idler/Special to AFN)

Patrick Keysey, who plays Dracula, contemplates a rather primitive portrait of the big vampire. (Suzanne Idler/Special to AFN)

Multicultural comedy club coming to Chandler

BY KEVIN REAGAN AFN Staff Writer

Rodney Montreuil spends much of his time helping immigrants and refugees resettle in central Arizona.

He visits them in detention centers, translates documents for them and generally makes sure they’re acclimating well to life in a new country.

But the Mesa man has noticed there’s something missing in the lives of these individuals.

“I don’t feel like their psychological wellbeing has been addressed,” Montreuil said.

That’s why he’s organizing a comedy event in Chandler that welcomes attendees from all cultures and ethnicities.

Montreuil’s calling his event the KrikKrak Comedy Club. “Krik-Krak” is a Haitian expression that’s the English equiva-

If You Go...

What: Krik-Krak Comedy Club.

Where: Tumbleweed Park, 2250 South McQueen Road, Chandler.

When: 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16.

Cost: $29-$44

More info: krik-krak. eventbrite.com.

from page 37

lent of a “knock-knock” joke.

Mackenson Louis, a Haitian-born comedian, is scheduled to be Krik-Krak’s first performer at an event on Nov. 16, at Tumbleweed Recreation Center.

Louis is known for penning the series “Comedy Joy Ride” and his celebrity impressions of Denzel Washington and Mike Tyson.

Montreuil said he hopes this will become a regular, ongoing event, one in which comedians from different backgrounds will get a chance to share their jokes with a new audience.

The Krik-Krak Club will serve two purposes: offer a platform for up-and-coming diverse comedians to try out their material, and provide a communal place for residents to feel welcome.

The refugee population in central Arizona is consistently growing, Montreuil said, and these individuals deserve a therapeutic place to feel some joy.

Some of these people have endured natural disasters and political turmoil in their home countries, he added, and are still recovering from their trauma.

“I want people to start feeling happy to be part of this community,” Montreuil said.

“I don’t want them to think that the United States is only expecting their hard labor… and then push them to the side and that’s it.”

the theater.

ater owned by the same people who own the Hale Center Theatre in Gilbert.

With a bachelor’s degree in theater arts from Arizona State University and two master’s degrees – from Grand Canyon University and the other from ASU – Idler said, “I enjoy a good and challenging comedy.”

She said “Dracula” is “very much in the same vein as other shows I have directed,” including “Laughing Stock” and “Baskerville.”

“I love the technical aspects of it for the cast and the crew,” she said. “Timing is a must.”

As for what audiences can expect in “Dracula,” Idler said, “Expect the unexpected. Expect to laugh. It is British humor so it is both silly and dry.”

Idler also has high praise for the students involved in the production.

“Theatre altogether is chaotic, so there are always going to be challenges but the students always rise to the occasion,” she said.

She also thinks the audience will like the set.

“I can’t give away a lot of the plot and surprises but it is a very involved set, especially for a black box show,” referring to the size of

Montreuil immigrated to the United States from Haiti about 30 years ago. The teacher and business developer had been living in New York City until the Sept. 11 attacks pushed him to find a safer place to raise his children.

He relocated to the East Valley and embedded himself in the immigrant community. He founded the Haitian American Center for Social Economic Development and was recently awarded the Martin Luther King Diversity award by the city of Tempe.

This comedy club is Montreuil’s latest project to bring cultures together.

“I’m in this for real with a lot of passion,”

“If Assistant Director Micheal Salutz was not here every day, I certainly would not have this show ready for the public on time,” she added.

“He’s amazing and a God-send.”

Heading the cast is Patrick Keyser as Dracula and Alayjia Marcelin as Van Helsing.

Many of the actors and actresses are playing multiple roles.

The rest of the cast includes Addie Harvey, Lexi Artusa-Sirotan, Trevor Stout, Kylie Bannon and Rylie Weathersbee.

The stage manager is Rebecca Jacobs and technical direction is handled by Taylor Simmons.

Other crew members are: Amiko Valenzuela, Kyra Deeney, Zarkeyiah Kuykendall, Emelia Robertson, Jadyn Carter, Constance Kelly, Brody Stolfa, Breyonah Owens, Conner Murray, Shayla Pollard, Trevor Perry, Chase Carter, Phoenix Torres, Kyla Marcelin, Andre Pressume and Eldin Cubean.

he added.

The Krik-Krak Club is expected to be family-friendly and the humor will be respectful of all demographics.

The event will eventually become multilingual, featuring comedians who speak English, Spanish, French, and Creole.

This is an incredibly unique event, Montreuil added, and will hopefully attract patrons from outside Arizona.

Depending on the turnout of the first show, Montreuil said he hopes to have another performer in early January.

“I’ve got to go slow because I got to make sure it works,” he added.

MACKENSON LOUIS

RODNEY MONTREUIL

There’s lots of tongue in cheek - or teeth - humor in “Dracula: The Bloody Truth” as Mountain Pointe thespians, from left, Trevor Stout, Lexia Artusa-Sirota and Alayjia Marcelin will show audiences this week. (Suzanne Idler/Special to AFN)

DRACULA

special surprise.

Chris Castro, an executive outlet chef of the Scott Resort in Scottsdale, is partnering with the McChesneys to prepare the event.

He was intrigued by the opportunity to experiment with his culinary skills outside of the kitchen and cook a meal based mostly on what’s available at the farm.

“Sometimes (the farm) has specialty things they’re growing that you don’t even know and it just makes it more fun,” Castro said.

Castro was classically trained to use French techniques around the kitchen. But he now calls himself a “global” chef –one that can adapt to any type of cuisine.

Serving five courses to 50 guests on a farm can be challenging, Castro added, but he’s learned some tips after the March event that will make the operation a bit smoother.

Aside from being a unique night out with friends, the event helps to better inform patrons on how their food is grown and prepared, Castro said.

“People get to understand more of where their food comes from,” Castro said. “It’s very important.”

McChesney agrees a visit to his farm can

be quite educational. He and his wife try not to be preachy, but he’s quick to point out that his vegetables can go weeks in the refrigerator before rotting.

The couple plans to host dinner parties more regularly throughout the year. The first event turned out to be such a success, McChesney said, and they’re hopeful the next one will have similar results.

“If we could recreate that again,” he said, “we’ll be doing quite well.”

Tickets cost $119 and can be bought by searching “Greenhouse Gardens” on eventbrite.com. The

facebook.com/getoutaz twitter.com/getoutaz

With JAN D’ATRI

GetOut Contributor

With JAN D’ATRI

Pumpkin and pasta?

GetOut Contributor

Your first reaction to the combination of pumpkin and pasta may be similar to mine: “What? That sounds crazy!”

IYour entree may take a back seat to this side dish

f I create it, then I get to name it, right?

IYou don’t need an excuse with this over-the-top cake

But once your kitchen is filled with the aroma of simmering garlic and wine, and then the combination of pumpkin, sage and spicy sausage, you’re going to realize that pasta with sausage and pumpkin sauce is a home run.

So, I’m naming this scrumptious, moist strawberry bake the Strawberry Excuse Cake because, besides a delicious ruby-red batter made from fresh crushed strawberries and Jell-O, the top is, well, over the top!

’m always looking for ways to cook zucchini and summer squash. For this recipe, they both come together, getting enrobed in a rich, creamy cheesy smoked gouda sauce and baked to a golden brown for a perfect accompaniment to any dish.

The recipe was made popular by PBS star and cookbook author Nick Stellino, whose authentic Italian cuisine has been featured on numerous television shows for decades.

This dish is taken from Nick’s Sicilian roots and is the perfect meal for fall! We have plenty of choices for food and drink using pumpkin and pumpkin spices, from pumpkin spiced lattes to pumpkin cookies, cakes and pies.

But if you love pasta, this pumpkin sauce brings a whole new flavor profile to your plate.

The cake is basically an excuse to incorporate all of your favorite cake toppings, I’ve added things like strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, star fruit and chopped Snickers bars, but you can add whatever your heart desires.

You’ll want to start with a cast-iron skillet or any heavy pan that will go from the cooktop to the oven. Then, it’s just a matter of slicing up the squash and tossing them into a avorful cream sauce.

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons olive oil

I like adding a handful of crisp chopped bacon to the recipe. It just gives it a pop of great avor. You can use any sharp cheese of your choice, but the smoked gouda really sends the avor over the top.

1 pound Italian hot sausage, casings removed

1 cup chopped onion

Although the peak time for summer squash is early to late summer, it’s pretty

Besides achieving a deep, rich cake batter, I also wanted the real avor of fresh strawberries to come through, so instead of the cup of water required in the cake mix, I replaced the water with strawberry juice. For this recipe, I used V-8 V-Fusion

10 garlic cloves, sliced thick

3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

Directions:

1 box white cake mix

2 tablespoons butter

1 small package (3.5 oz) strawberry Jell-O (not sugar free)

1 large sweet yellow onion, sliced in thin rounds

3 eggs

2 large cloves garlic, minced

In a large skillet, cook 1tablespoon of olive oil over high heat for 2 minutes. Add the sausage and break up into small pieces. Cook sausage until it browns, about 3 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and place in a bowl. Set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the oil from the sausage in the skillet. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion, garlic and chopped sage. Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring well until the onion and garlic begin to brown.

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup whole milk ricotta

1 cup strawberry juice, optional or 1 cup water (V-8 Fusion Strawberry Banana Juice)

1 cup parmesan

2 zucchini sliced in ¼ inch rounds

3 tablespoons, strawberry liqueur, optional

2 pints fresh strawberries

2 yellow squash sliced in ¼ inch rounds

1 tablespoon sugar

½ cup crisp chopped bacon

1 ½ cups shredded smoked Gouda

Kiwi, grapes, blueberries, star fruit or fresh fruits of your choice

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon pepper

5-6 mini bite-sized Snickers bars, cut in small chunks

Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if desired. Add the reserved sausage back into the skillet with onions and garlic and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring well.

Directions:

2 containers buttercream or white icing

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

Directions:

Melt butter in cast iron or oven proof

Grease an 8- or 9-inch spring form pan. Mix

zucchini and the bright yellow summer squash give this side a variety of colors and textures, which makes it really pretty

the batter, which gave the cake another

This squash au gratin is nice spooned on a plate or served in a ramekin or small side casserole dish. Make sure the top is a bubbly golden brown and serve right out of the oven.

1-1/4 cup white wine

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

1-1/4 cup pumpkin puree

Buttercream or a white icing goes beautiand all of the delicious topping! Need an excuse to make dessert this week?

This one takes the cake!

2 cups chicken stock

I may be going out on a limb here, but I’m pretty sure if you make this dish as a side, the main entrée may take a back seat! Yes, it’s that delicious.

1 pound of pasta (recommend Penne or Bow Tie)

6 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional)

skillet. Add onion slices and cook until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes or until softened.

Add the wine and deglaze the pan making sure to scrape the skillet to dislodge all the browned bits. Cook for 8 minutes. Add the pumpkin puree and cook for 2 minutes, stirring well. Add the chicken stock and cinnamon.

Add cream and ricotta to the onions, stir and simmer until bubbly and starting to thicken. Slowly stir in parmesan. Add zucchini and yellow squash, gently stirring to combine. Cook for just a few minutes then sprinkle with bacon. Spread the shredded smoked Gouda over the bacon, spreading evenly over the top.

Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. While sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of water (add 2 tablespoons of salt) to a boil.

Top with salt and pepper. Bake at 450 degrees for 20 minutes or until cheese is a deep golden brown on top and squash is tender. (If squash needs more cooking time, cover the pan with foil so the top crust doesn’t get too burned.)

Serve immediately with entrée of choice

cake according to package instructions. For deeper strawberry flavor substitute strawberry juice for water (optional.) Add package of strawberry Jell-O to mixture. Mash one cup of fresh strawberries and one tablespoon of sugar in a zip lock bag with rolling pin or use a mini blender. Add mashed strawberries to cake batter and blend well to combine. If adding strawberry liqueur, blend into cake batter. Pour into greased spring form pan and bake according to package instructions. Let cool. Freeze cake for one hour for easier slicing and frosting. Slice cake in two layers. Frost the layers of cake with butter cream or white icing and then frost the entire cake. Top cake with remainder of fresh strawberries, and add fresh fruit of your choice. Mound the Snickers chunks in the middle of the cake.

Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and pour back into the pot. Add the sauce and cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, gently stirring to incorporate. Add the optional Parmesan cheese and serve. Garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese. Serves 6 to 8

Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com

Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/recipe/strawberry-excuse-cake.

Sports & Recreation

Desert Vista football caps its regular season with loss

BY OMAR SOUSSI AFN Contributing Writer

With a week remaining until playoffs, every shred of momentum and traction is necessary to set your team up with success.

Unfortunately for Desert Vista, although playoff bound, it will not go to the postseason with that traction as the Thunder fell to Queen Creek 43-29, ending the regular season with a season record of 7-3 overall.

Despite the loss, Desert Vista clinched the No. 6 seed in the upcoming 6A Conference playoffs. The Thunder will start the quest for a championship Friday when they host No. 11 Basha.

The game started well for the Thunder, up 21-7 toward the end of the first half. But once Queen Creek ended the half with a touchdown, cutting the lead to seven points, momentum shifted in their favor.

“You’re down two touchdowns but to get that (touchdown) right before the half,

now we’re only down by one score which is just one drive, that makes all the difference in the world,” Queen Creek coach Joe Germanie said. “So I think we really went into halftime with some momentum but I think the way our players came out the second half and played was amazing.”

The second half was where the Bulldogs took control of the game, scoring 15 unanswered points in the third quarter. The Thunder had a chance to change the momentum of the game but a turnover gave the Bulldogs the perfect field position to score the second touchdown of the quarter. Driven by it being senior night and not losing getting down on themselves, junior quarterback Devin Brown said he knew they wouldn’t lose this game.

“We knew we weren’t going out here losing cause it could be their (senior) last game on the varsity field out in Queen Creek,” Brown said. “...There was no loss of energy, our confidence was high the whole time, we knew we had it in us.”

Desert Vista wouldn’t simply lie down

though, as on the very next drive the Thunder drove down the field and scored to tie it up. The defense wouldn’t be able to stop Queen Creek, however, as the Bulldogs scored 14 unanswered in the fourth quarter to end the game and send Desert Vista to the playoffs with a loss.

Desert Vista’s defense struggled to get off the field and couldn’t finish plays as the Bulldogs collected several yards after contact. The offense was forced to play catchup after the turnover and never regained its full power after the second quarter.

Senior quarterback Parker Navarro said that the team needs to “learn from our mistakes on film and just truly look at the postseason as a new season and a fresh start.”

Head coach Dan Hinds said the loss, while tough, provides a learning opportunity for his team and during the postgame speech told his team that anyone

Mountain Pointe ends season with OT loss to Corona

BY CHRIS FAHRENDORF AFN Contributing Writer

The final game of the season for Mountain Pointe brought with it plenty of drama, as the Pride fell to Corona del Sol in double-overtime, 34-33 on Friday night.

This was it for Mountain Pointe. Win or lose, the Pride’s season was coming to an end after a rough season. Still, they fought to the finish.

“Our theme all week has been we started with a ‘W’ and let’s end with one,” Mountain Pointe coach Rich Wellbrock said. “It’s for these seniors. We wanted to take them out on a winning note.”

The Pride’s defense has been their strong suit all year, and this week they had to deal with the dynamic Aztec duo of sophomore running back Anyale Velazquez and junior quarterback Quade Swearingen.

Velazquez finished the game carrying the ball 22 times for 59 yards and two touchdowns, while Swearingen finished completing 12-of-28 passes for 138 pass-

ing yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

“They’re really multidimensional,” Wellbrock said. “Their quarterback’s such a great threat as well as their running back. It’s gonna be about our run fits and making sure we’re in the right gaps, in the right running lanes that they want to run to and dialing some stuff up at some point.”

The first half was quiet, as the score was 7-7. The Aztecs scored their only first-half touchdown on a blocked punt return by

junior linebacker Jake Schmitt, while the Pride scored theirs on a 1-yard run by senior running back Rashion Hodge.

In the third quarter, the Aztecs went up 14-7 off of a 1-yard run from junior running back Scott Musgrave.

The Pride immediately answered as sophomore quarterback Landen Powell connected with junior tight end Kevin Sawitzke to tie the game on a 37-yard touchdown pass.

Then, madness ensued.

The Pride drove all the way downfield only for senior kicker Cameron Rasmussen to miss a 36-yard field goal with 4 minutes left to play.

The Aztecs then got the ball back, but they were unable to go anywhere with a minute left to play.

On a key third down, Corona dialed up a familiar trick play. Similar to last week at Desert Vista, Velazquez took the handoff and threw a screen pass back to Swearingen who took it 40 yards to go up 2014. Junior kicker Jasper Schineller missed what could have been a crucial PAT. Mountain Pointe got the ball back and on fourth down with 17 seconds left, Powell connected with Sawitzke once again on a 47-yard touchdown pass. Powell turned in one of his best games of the year as he completed 6-of-11 passes for 97 yards, 3 touchdowns and one interception.

The game should’ve ended as all Mountain Pointe had to do was make the extra point attempt, but the Mountain Pointe

Desert Vista finished the regular season with a loss to Queen Creek, bringing the Thunder’s regular season record to 7-3 overall. (Pablo Robles/AFN Staff)

Mountain Pointe tight end Kevin Sawitzke score two touchdowns in the Pride’s double-overtime loss to Corona del Sol to end the season. (Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Contributor)

THUNDER from page 42

can run the table.

“I believe that teams can create their own momentum and we can do that this week in practice and regardless of who we get, we need to create that momentum in the playoffs now,” Hinds said. “There’s a lot that can be learned from a loss, I’m not saying we like losing but I’m saying we’re going to learn a heck of a lot from this game.”

PRIDE from page 42

players got penalized for celebrating. In turn, this caused the PAT to be moved back 10 yards where what could’ve been the game-winner was missed.

In both overtimes, both teams scored on all four of their possessions, but once again it came down to a PAT by Mountain Pointe.

The Pride started with the ball in the second overtime and scored on a 5-yard run from senior running back Resi Shank, but yet another missed PAT gave the Aztecs the opportunity to win the game if they scored.

That is exactly what they did as Velazquez once again came through in the clutch and punched in a 5-yard run. Schineller hit the extra point.

Even though the loss could, in essence, boil down to missed extra points and field goals, Shank said that the team never lost faith in Rasmussen.

“All this team is about is trust,” Shank said. “We all trust each other. We all family, so we gotta have that behind us and behind our back and in our head that we always trust each other.

“I’m so happy and proud to be able to play with this team. I love my brothers and I would never switch any other team

for this one.”

Shank finished the game with 22 carries for 156 yards and one touchdown.

Even though they lost, Wellbrock was proud of how his team fought till the end.

“Once again, they played their tails off, gave us everything they had, we just didn’t make a couple plays when we needed to and we actually made a couple plays that we haven’t made all year,” Wellbrock said. “We got better tonight, especially on the offensive side of the ball and unfortunately our season comes to an end.”

Now that the season is over, coach Wellbrock is immediately looking forward to putting together a winning Pride team next year.

“It’s going to be a big offseason for us,” Wellbrock said. “We’ll kind of see who steps up as we move forward and that starts on Monday.”

Jeff Anderson is not admitted in Arizona

Desert Vista finished as the sixth-ranked team in the 6A Conference and will host No. 11 Basha in the first round of the playoffs on Friday. (Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Contributor)

Mountain Pointe senior running back Resi Shank said despite the tough season for Mountain Pointe, there is no other team he would rather play for. (Cheryl Haselhorst/ AFN Contributor)

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

Landscape laborer, 58 temporary full-time positions

D u ties : Lab o r er s

ing, fertilization, irrigation systems maintenance and r e

Life Events

c r a m e n t o J u n i o r C o l l e g e S c h o o l o f

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a t i o n M e d i c i n e a n d H o s p i t a l i n P e n s a c o l a , F L J a n s e r v e d i n t h e N a v y f o r s e v e n y e a r s a n d w a s s t a -

t i o n e d a l l o v e r t h e w o r l d S h e w a s o n e o f t h e f i r s t

N avy nurses to actively serve on the USS Antieta m air craft carrier where she was one of four nurses t o r e n d e r m e d i c a l a n d h u m a n i t a r i a n a i d t o v i c t i m s o f

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S a n t a F e N M w h e r e s h e b e g a n r a i s i n g h e r f a m i l y

J a n m o v e d t o P h o e n i x , A Z i n 1 9 9 0 a n d w o r k e d i n neonatal nursing until she retired Once retired from n u r s i n g s h e b e g a n w o r k i n g f o r t h e K y r e n e S c h o o l

District in Ahwatukee as a crossing guard where she safely escorted kids across Ray Road Jan was a ver y i n t e l l i g e n t , c h e e r f u l , w i t t y , s t u b b o r n , a n d a f i e r c e ly i n d e p e n d e n t p e r s o n w h o l o v e d h e r f a m i l y a n d friends Jan supported and was a regular donor of th e

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N a v y J a n i c e w a s p r e c e d e d i n d e a t h b y h e r F a t h e r ,

G e o r g e C h r i s t o p h e r L a n g l e y , M o t h e r , C o r r i n e

Pilcher Langley, and Brother Donald Kent Langley

J a n i c e i s s u r v i v e d b y h e r s i s t e r M a r y L a n g l e y o f El

D o r a d o H i l l s , C A , d a u g h t e r s P e n n y E d l u n d o f Stevenson, WA and Tracey Quartaroli of Livermore , CA, 5 grandchildren, two nephews and one niece F u n e r a l s e r v i c e s w i l l b e h e l d o n V e t e r a n s D a y , M o n d a y , N o v e m b e r 1 1 a t 9 a m a t t h e N a t i o n a l M em o r i a l C e m e t e r y o f A r i z o n a a t 2 3 0 2 9 C a v e C r e e k Rd , P h o en ix A Z 8 5 0 2 4 Bu r ial w ill tak e p lace immediately following A brunch reception will be held at her home following these services Memorial donations can be made in lieu of flowers i n J a n i c e ' s n a m e t o t h e A r i z o n a H u m a n e S o c i e t y at 1 5 2 1 W

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day shift; Mon-Fri Dates of employment: 01/20/2011/19/20 Wage: $13 81/h, OT $20 72/h if necessary Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance OJT provided

Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, to t

ployment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimb u r s ed , if th e w o r k er co

emp lo yment period Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is d

Employer: Siteworks Landscape Development, LLC 2915 W Fairview St, Chandler, AZ 85224 Contact : Chris Malham, fax (480) 820-1606.

L a n d s c a p e l a b o r e r s , 3 6 t e m p o r a r y f u l l - t i m e p o s it i o n s

D u ties : Lab o r er s w ill b e n eed ed f o r tu r f car e, p r u ning, fertilization, irrigation system maintenance and r e p a i r , g e n e r a l c l e a n

D a y s & H o u r s : 4 0 h o u r s / w e e k ( 6 : 0 0 a m - 2 : 3 0 p m ) ; day shift; Mon-Fri, may include wknd/hol Dates o f e m p l o y m e n t : 0

, OT $20 72/h if necessary Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance OJT provided

Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, to t h e e x t

e mployment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimb u r s

yment period. Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is d

tion: Gilber, AZ - Maricopa and Pinal counties Employer will provide daily transportation to and from the worksite

Employment General

L a n d s c a p e l a b o r e r s , 2 0 t e m p o r a r y f u l l - t i m e p o s it i o n s

D u ties : Lab o r er s w ill b e n eed ed f o r tu r f car e, p r u ning, fertilization, irrigation system maintenance and r

day shift; Mon-Fri, may include wknd/hol Dates

OT $20 72/h if necessary Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance OJT provided

Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, t o t h e e x t e n t n e c e s s a r y , l o d g i n g ) t o t h e p l a c e o f e mployment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimb u r s ed , if th e w o r k er co mp letes h alf th e emp lo yment period Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is d i s m i s s e d e a r l y b y t h e e m p l o y e r E m p l o y e r w i l l p r o v i d e w o r k e r s a t n o c h a r g e a l l t o o l s , e q u i p m e n t a n d s u p p l i e s r e q u i r e d t o p e r f o r m t h e j o b J o b l o c ation: Tempe, AZ - Maricopa County. Employer wil l p r o v id e d aily

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A p p l i c a n t s m a y s e n d o r c o n t a c t t h e A Z

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6 3 0 P l e a s e r e f e r e n c e A Z D E S J o b O r d e r # : 3 6 4 5 0 1 4

E m p l o y e r : V a l l e y R a i n C o n s t r u c t i o n

1614 E Curry Rd, Tempe, AZ 85281 Contact: Carin Brodland, fax (480) 966-1450 Employment General

L a n d s c a p e l a b o r e r s , 1 2 0 t e

D u ties : Lab o r er s w ill b e n eed ed f o r tu r f car e, p r u ning, fertilization, irrigation system maintenance and r e p a i r , g e n e r a l c l e a n u p a n d i n s t a l l a t i o n o f m o r t a rless segmental concrete masonry wall units Work i n t h e o u t d o o r s . P h y s i c a l w o r k . 3 m o n t h s l a n d s c a p e E X P R E Q N o E D

D a y s & H o u r s : 4 0 h o u r s / w e e k ( 6 : 0 0 a m - 2 : 3 0 p m ) ; day shift; Mon-Fri Dates of employment: 01/20/2011/19/20 Wage: $13 81/h, OT $20 72/h if necessary Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance OJT provided

Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, t o t h e e x t e n t n e c e s s a r y , l o d g i n g ) t o t h e p l a c e o f e mployment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimb u r s ed , if th e w o r k er co mp letes h alf th e emp lo yment period. Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is d i s m i s s e d e a r l y b y t h e e m p l o y e r E m p l o y e r w i l l p r o v i d e w o r k e r s a t n o c h a r g e a l l t o o l s , e q u i p m e n t a n d s u p p l i e s r e q u i r e d t o p e r f o r m t h e j o b J o b l o c at i o n : P h o e n i x , A Z - M a r i c o p a a n d P i n a l c o u n t i e s

E m p l o y e r w i l l p r o v i d e d a i l y t r a n s p o r t a t i o n t o a n d f r o m t h e w o r k s i t e

A p p l i c a n t s m a y s e n d o r c o n t a c t t h e A Z D E S O f f i c e, 4 6 3 5 S C e n t r a l A v e , P h o e n i x , A Z 8 5 0 4 0 P h : 6 0 2 -

7 7 1 - 0 6 3 0 P l e a s e r e f e r e n c e A Z D E S J o b O r d e r # :

3 6 4 4 9 4 5

E m p l o y e r : E L S C o m p a n i e s , I n c 3 3 2 9 E S o u t h e rn Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85040 Contact: Daniel Bang, fa x (602) 268-5040

Assurances: Transportation (including meals and,

Janice Langley Smith

Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This