West Valley View: South November 28, 2018

westvalleyview.com

November 28, 2018

ISM Raceway, Abrazo some of the ‘Best of the West’

By Connor Dziawura

ISM Raceway, Abrazo West Campus and Cheryl Covert, Avondale’s economic and business development specialist, were among the many winners at the Western Maricopa Coalition’s (WESTMARC) annual Best of the West awards dinner at State Farm Stadium earlier this month.

Avondale Mayor Kenn Weise, Buckeye Mayor Jackie Meck, Goodyear Mayor Georgia Lord, Litchfield Park Mayor Thomas L. Schoaf and Sen. Sine Kerr were among the many elected officials and dignitaries who were present. More than 500 guests attended this year.

Now in its 26th year, the event bestowed prizes in the categories of Economic Engine, Excellence in Innovation and Quality of Life Enhancement: Community and Education. Select dignitaries also received Regional Advancement, Inspiration in Leadership and President’s Choice honors.

“Tonight we recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions to the image, lifestyle and economic development of the West Valley,” said Bobbi Magdaleno, ASU’s executive director of government and community engagement and WESTMARC’s board chairwoman.

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve as WESTMARC’s chairman of the board for 2017 and 2018, and I extend my deepest appreciation to board members, committee members and the WESTMARC team for our most recent growth and success, including financial stability, improved processes, increased membership, increased PR and media exposure,

and completion of the workforce strategy. Moving ahead, we have exciting plans to work with all of you as we increase our efforts to promote and brand the West Valley and all of our assets.”

Founded in 1990, WESTMARC is a public-private partnership between 15 West Valley communities: Avondale, Buckeye, El Mirage, Gila Bend, Glendale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Peoria, Phoenix, Sun City, Sun City West, Surprise,

Tolleson, Wickenburg and Youngtown.

In addition to merging the education and business sectors of the communities it serves, the Glendale-based organization sets forth three main goals: Promote the West Valley, enhance economic development and increase member value.

Greater Phoenix Economic Council Senior Vice President of Business Develop-

Awards...continued on page 2

Avondale Aquaculture helps keep lakes healthy

By Eric Newman

The city of Avondale is taking a nontraditional route to cleaning area lakes and ponds. Rather than resorting to chemicals to kill vegetation, Public Works is using tilapia.

The fish are bred at the Avondale Aquaculture, which started operations in April.

Avondale Public Works has utilized tilapia to naturally clean water for years, but before the Aquaculture opened, public works bought the fish elsewhere for about $25,000.

Now, with just a $9,000 investment –and a couple thousand more a year for maintenance – the Aquaculture sustains the program and fish are born organically.

“We were having to procure fish from out of state, and it was expensive, and we could only do it maybe once a year. It just wasn’t effective for us,” said Cindy Blackmon of Avondale Public Works. “This has made a huge difference.”

WESTMARC President and CEO Sintra Hoffman speaks at her organization’s annual Best of the West awards dinner (West Valley View photo by Pablo Robles)

ment Brad Smidt, Arizona Association for Economic Development Executive Director Joyce Grossman, AZ Big Media Editor-in-Chief Michael Gossie and Phoenix Business Journal Managing Editor Patrick O’Grady judged the Economic Engine, Quality of Life Enhancement and Excellence in Innovation categories.

WESTMARC’s board determined Inspiration in Leadership and Regional Advancement recipients, while President and CEO Sintra Hoffman made the President’s Choice.

“Best of the West has always been my favorite event, and this is because we not only have the opportunity to recognize the amazing work that’s gone on in the West Valley, but also the amazing leaders and the people in this room,” Hoffman said. “And it’s great to see that we not only have these projects coming together, but the leaders are working side by side in tandem.”

Economic Engine

Jon Howard, partner at Quarles & Brady and WESTMARC’s chairman elect, presented the Economic Engine award to ISM Raceway, which recently completed the ISM Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar and reopened earlier this month for the Can-Am 500 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. The city of Surprise Railplex was the runner up.

According to WESTMARC’s official criteria, Economic Engine winners must “have created a significant economic outcome and/or job creation for the West Valley.”

Also nominated in this category was

EPCOR’s Agua Fria Operations Center in El Mirage.

Excellence in Innovation

Neil Terry, partner at Orcutt | Winslow and WESTMARC Executive Committee member, presented the Excellence in Innovation award to the city of Surprise AZ TechCelerator’s Global Concierge Services Program, which aims to reduce upfront costs, risks and obstacles for international businesses expanding to the United States and recently became one of 31 members of the International Business Incubation Association’s (IaBIA) Global Soft Landings Network in more than eight countries. The Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life Conference was the runner up.

According to WESTMARC’s official criteria, Excellence in Innovation winners must “have demonstrated an innovative concept” to “fulfill a need for West Valley residents” and/or “preserve the West Valley’s assets or resources.”

Other nominees in this category were EPCOR; Digital Forward; Bully Blocker, Yasin Silva and Deborah Hull; Peoria’s Traffic Engineering and Police; the ISM Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar; and Goodyear’s Franklin Pierce University.

Quality of Life Enhancement

According to WESTMARC’s official criteria, Quality of Life Enhancement: Community and Education winners must “have enhanced the quality of life for West Valley residents.”

Tony Pereira, vice president of the Arizona Cardinals’ stadium operations, presented the Quality of Life Enhancement: Community award to Abrazo West Campus, which recently debuted

a new biplane imaging radiology suite and was praised by WESTMARC for its community engagement. Mission of Mercy was the runner up.

Verlan Jose, vice chairman of the Tohono O’odham Nation, presented the Quality of Life Enhancement: Education award to Glendale’s Midwestern University. Arizona Charter Academy was the runner up.

Other nominees in these categories were the town of Wickenburg, AZ Luxury Expeditions, Peoria’s Veterans Memorial, Gregory Donovan, Benevilla, Goodyear and Treasure 4 Teachers, Peoria and Special Olympics, Homeless Youth Connection, and Surprise’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Celebration and Service.

Regional Advancement

Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat presented Sharon Harper, president, CEO and co-founder of Plaza Companies, with the Regional Advancement award.

According to WESTMARC’s official criteria, the Regional Advancement recipient must have “strengthened and transformed the West Valley’s position for economic growth.”

Inspiration in Leadership

Joe La Rue, president and CEO of Sun Health, WESTMARC Executive Advisory Board member and last year’s Inspiration in Leadership recipient, presented Herman Orcutt, retired founder of Orcutt | Winslow, owner of HZ & P Consulting and WESTMARC Executive Advisory Board member, with the 2018 Inspiration in Leadership award.

According to WESTMARC’s official criteria, the Inspiration in Leadership recipient must “(serve) as an example of extraordinary leadership to others.”

President’s Choice

of extraordinary leadership by going above and beyond in their contribution to WESTMARC.”

They must also have “been recognized by their WESTMARC peers for contributions that advanced the Committee’s work in an exceptional manner and increased member value for the organization.”

West Valley Youth Leadership Scholarship

In addition to the awards, Michelle Hess, executive director of Leadership West and Buckeye councilwoman, presented Alexis Killian with the West Valley Youth Leadership Scholarship. Killian will receive $1,000.

Killian, an ASU student, will use the scholarship to further her dream of becoming a commercial pilot, she said. She intends to earn a degree in professional flight.

Hoffman presented Cheryl Covert, employment and business development specialist for the city of Avondale, with the President’s Choice award. Covert is only the second recipient of the award, which was created last year.

According to WESTMARC’s official criteria, the President’s Choice recipient must have “served as an example

Created from a partnership between Leadership West and WESTMARC and administered through the latter’s Education and Workforce Committee, the West Valley Youth Leadership Scholarship is intended “for graduating high school seniors who have demonstrated leadership qualities and who plan to attend a college, university or postsecondary vocational school physically located in the West Valley,” Hess explained.

Herman Orcutt is WESTMARC’s 2018 Inspiration in Leadership (West Valley View photo by Pablo Robles)

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

PUBLISHER

Steve T. Strickbine

VICE PRESIDENT

Michael Hiatt

EDITORIAL HOTLINE

623-777-1492

Executive Editor

Niki D’Andrea, ndandrea@westvalleyview.com

Managing Editor

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, christina@westvalleyview.com

Assistant Editor

Connor Dziawura, cdziawura@westvalleyview.com

Designers

Shannon Mead, smead@westvalleyview.com

Tonya Mildenberg, tmildenberg@westvalleyview.com

Production Manager

Courtney Oldham, production@westvalleyview.com

ADVERTISING

623-535-8439

advertising@westvalleyview.com

Customer Service Representative

Deeanna Acosta, 623-535-8439 dacosta@westvalleyview.com

Sales Supervisor

Laura Meehan, 623-777-1042 lmehhan@westvalleyview.com

Advertising Representatives

Dick Walters, 623-777-1791 dwalters@westvalleyview.com

National Advertising Director Zac Reynolds, zac@timespublications.com

Classified and Obituaries

Elaine Cota, ecota@westvalleyview.com

Classifieds, class@timespublications.com

CIRCULATION

623-535-8439

Circulation Director

Aaron Kolodny, customercare@westvalleyview.com

DELIVERY

Home delivery of the West Valley View is complimentary and offered to residents in the southwest region of the Valley of the Sun, saturating parts of Avondale, Buckeye, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Tolleson & Waddell. The West Valley View can also be found free-of-charge at nearly 600 local business in the area.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Requested mail

Avondale makes a difference for United Way campaign

By West Valley View staff

Avondale employees pledged $111,105 toward the Valley of the Sun United Way, as part of the city’s month-long United Way employee fundraising campaign this year.

With nearly 70-percent employee participation, Avondale has been recognized by the Valley of the Sun United Way as the No. 1 giving municipality in percentage of employees contributing. It has also been a top campaign participant for the United Way in the category of 500 to 999 employees for its fundraising efforts Valleywide for multiple years.

Raising dollars for the Valley of the Sun United Way is an important part of the city of Avondale’s culture of giving. Avondale employees set a high goal for contributions and have consistently exceeded that goal. This year is no different, exceeding last year’s pledge of over $104,436.

“Avondale employees recognize that their contributions are helping to bring needed resources to the most critical human care needs in the community,” said Charles Montoya, Avondale city manager.

“Whether it’s providing additional help for homeless shelters and food banks, enhancing literacy and youth development programs, and ensuring that basic medical and dental care are available to the working poor – Avondale’s contribution makes a difference.”

Volunteers needed for marathon

By West Valley View staff

The 5th Annual Buckeye Marathon “Race to the Runway” is December 8 and features a half marathon, 10K, 5K and family fun obstacle course.

Volunteers are needed to assist with check-in, staffing water stations or the Kid’s Zone, distributing medals and so much more. Individual and group volunteering is available.

All volunteers receive a free lunch and T-shirt, plus they get to experience the premier West Valley event firsthand.

The Buckeye Marathon serves as a Boston/National Qualifier on a USATF Certified Course.

Proceeds from the Marathon will benefit the Buckeye Youth Council Scholarship Fund, providing the opportunity for local children to participate in recreational activities throughout the city.

Aquaculture

Tilapia eat just about anything they can get their tiny mouths on. Blackmon calls them “about as hearty eaters as any fish.”

Avondale Environmental and Public Programs Supervisor Les Miller and his staff spend about an hour a day caring for the thousands of tilapias at the Avondale Aquaculture. They are tasked with ensuring the regenerating water cycle in the indoor tanks is working, and that the fish are safe and healthy.

“I’m just making sure the fish are fed, the water is clean, and the system is functioning properly,” he said.

This allows for healthier, more livable water for other fish. The tilapia is used for recreational purposes as well. Once the tilapia mature, city workers stock the lakes surrounding Crystal Gardens near 107th Avenue and McDowell Road with the fish.

The program provides fish immediately to Public Works, instead of relying on other hatcheries’ schedules and facilities that may delay delivery.

“The improvement for us is now we’re able to time the stocking of the treatment cells when we really need it, so we’re not relying on other fish

farms,” Blackmon said. “We’re not at their mercy anymore of when they can or can’t provide the fish, which made the timing difficult.”

The tanks are not open to the public. However, Blackmon is considering opening them to fieldtrips so children can learn, hands-on, about biology and city government properties.

“It’s brand new, but we like to offer the opportunity for some of the schools to come out maybe through the STEM programs,” Blackmon said. “Then they can see how all that works because if you get a chance to come out and look, you can see all the fish in different stages of their growth. And then we could explain to the kids how those fish help with our water treatment.”

Miller said there were minor challenges in keeping the water’s pressure and level at optimum levels for the fish, and there are naturally minor growing pains as the Aquaculture is less than a year old. But overall, it seems Public Works has delivered an easy, cost-effective and timely way to clean water in the area.

“The whole process has been relatively smooth,” Miller said, “and now that we’re up and running, I’m ready to see what some of the results are.”

For a complete list of volunteer duties and to sign up online, visit signupgenius.com/go/ 10c084aa4ad2fa4f94-2018, or contact Adam Melle at 623-349-6350 or amelle@buckeaz.gov.

For more details on the Buckeye Marathon, visit buckeyemarathon.com.

Avondale among top digital cities in nation

By West Valley View staff

Quality. Warmth. Value.

The Southwest Valley’s Premier Assisted Living Community

Our goal at Legacy House Avondale – making sure our residents feel at home.

Choices are important, that’s why we offer a variety of private apartment sizes and, to help you in your new home, we provide the housekeeping, maintenance, activities director, chef, and nurse. You’ve never had it so good! Providing just the right amount of help is what we do best.

The Center for Digital Government has ranked Avondale as one of the top cities in the country in its 2018 Digital Cities Survey. The award recognizes cities for their commitment to and innovations in digital government.

The survey focused on results achieved by cities, via the use of technology to tackle social challenges, enhanced cybersecurity and improved

transparency. The highest-ranking cities in the survey showed great strides in leading the nation when it comes to leveraging data to improve a wide range of city services and initiatives. Avondale received eighth place honors in the 75,000 to 124,999 population category. Winners were honored at a special awards ceremony held during the recent National League of Cities annual conference hosted in Los Angeles.

Cancer Treatment Centers now servicing Medicare patients

By West Valley View staff

Cancer Treatment Centers of America Phoenix in Goodyear has received accreditation from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, enabling the hospital to serve Medicare-insured patients.

CMS accreditation requires that health care providers meet well-defined health and safety standards for patient care.

“Our focus at CTCA has always been on providing the highest quality, safest care possible for the patients we are honored to serve. This accreditation confirms our commitment to those in our care, and we are incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Rob Gould, president and CEO, CTCA Phoenix.

The accreditation process requires

demonstration of compliance with CMS Hospital Conditions of Participation through an on-site survey. CTCA Phoenix completed its survey process in August and is prepared to serve Medicare patients immediately.

“With this accreditation, even more patients now have access to advanced, personalized treatment options at the hands of our highly respected oncology experts,” Gould added.

Earlier this year, CTCA expanded its Valley network with the opening of two Arizona-based outpatient care centers – one in North Phoenix and one in Scottsdale. The outpatient centers have served Medicare-insured patients since their opening.

CTCA plans to open a third Valley outpatient care center in the Spring.

Councilmembers Pat Dennis, Tina Conde, Veronica Malone, along with Avondale chief information officer Jeff Sheetz and assistant chief information officer Mark Neerings were in attendance when the city was recognized by The Center of Digital Government. (Photo courtesy city of Avondale)

Aviation Ordnanceman Dylan Repousch of Avondale cleans and maintains a M2HB .50 caliber machine gun in the hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Connor D. Loessin)

Grand Alaskan

Cruise & Tour

12 days from $1,749* $1,499* Departs June - September, 2019 Save $500 per couple

Enjoy a spectacular cruise & tour between Seattle and Alaska including 7 nights aboard Holland America Line’s ms Westerdam and 4 nights on land. You’ll cruise the Gulf of Alaska and the Inside Passage—a sea lane teeming with marine wildlife, where you’ll pass glaciers, towering mountains, and lush forests, with stops in Ketchikan, Skagway and Glacier Bay. On land, you’ll go deep into Denali National Park, tour Anchorage, and see the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Best of Ireland Tour

12 days from $1,649* $1,399*

Departs April - September, 2019

Take the ultimate trip around the Emerald Isle! Starting and ending in Dublin, enjoy a 12-day loop around the island with an expert local driver guide showing you the legendary hospitality and iconic sights of this lushly green nation. See fairytale castles like Blarney and Bunratty. Experience Titanic Belfast in the very town where the grand ship was built. Travel through the Ring of Kerry and see the Cli s of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway, tour the Waterford Crystal factory, and more, on this exceptional tour!

Hawaiian Islands

Cruise & Tour

12 days from $2,249* $1,999* Departs year-round

Discover Hawaii on this island-hopping cruise tour. Spend 7 nights aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s renovated Pride of America and enjoy freestyle cruising at its nest. Experience the lush Iao Valley on Maui, the beauty and charm of Hilo, Kona’s co ee-rich “Gold Coast,” and Kauai’s Na Pali coast and Waimea Canyon. Your land tour includes Pearl Harbor and Honolulu city tours, and time to relax on Waikiki Beach. Escorted on Oahu by our friendly Tour Directors—your local experts.

National Parks of the Golden West

14 days from $1,849* $1,599* Departs May - September, 2019

Visit up to 9 of America’s most spectacular national parks on this incredible tour! Start off in fabulous Las Vegas and continue to the world-famous Grand Canyon. From there we’ll go on to see Zion’s steep sandstone cliffs, rock hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley’s giant mesas, Arches National Park’s gravity-defying stone formations, waterfalls and granite scenery in Yosemite, towering sequoias in Kings Canyon, and everything in between—America’s natural beauty awaits!

Sexual exploitation suspect arrested in Avondale

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

A 59-year-old Avondale resident was arrested November 14 on an outstanding warrant of eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and dangerous crimes against children.

John Pappas was arrested at 7 a.m. and booked into the Fourth Avenue Jail after a Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Cyber Crimes Unit and Arizona Attorney General’s Office’s investigation. The two organizations initiated an online investigation April 13 into the potential sexual exploitation of minors. Using several techniques, they obtained information about the downloading and sharing of large amounts of child pornography over the internet.

MCSO detectives executed a search warrant of Pappas’ home in the 11300 block of West Hubbell Street at 6:30 a.m. May 17.

Pappas confessed to the allegations, but technicians couldn’t find evidence on his computers. Forensic examiners were later able to extract images from Pappas’ overwritten hard drive.

Kroger to phase out plastic bags at all its grocery stores over 7 years

By Stephanie Morse Cronkite News

Kroger, owner of Fry’s Foods in Arizona, will phase out plastic bags by 2025, becoming the latest company to respond to the backlash against single-use plastics.

The grocery chain will transition to reusable bags in all 2,800 stores, starting in the Seattle area.

Pam Giannonatti, spokeswoman for the Fry’s Food division of Kroger, said she doesn’t know when the transition will start in Arizona. In the meantime, she hopes customers will start changing their habits.

Case agents worked with the nonprofit group Childhelp to determine those images depicted child pornography. A grand jury warrant was obtained for Pappas. The recovered images are also being cross referenced with known child victims, and the results will be forwarded to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for identification.

“We’re highly encouraging our customers to shift their shopping habits and use reusable bags,” Giannonatti said. “We’re not taking away the bags tomorrow.”

The plastic bag phaseout is part of the Zero Hunger, Zero Waste initiative at Kroger, which is the largest grocer nationwide and the market-share leader in Arizona with 123 stores. The grocer is aiming to become zero waste by 2020 and is trying to minimize food waste by 2025.

tourists shouldn’t have to wonder from city to city if they are going to have to pay for plastic bags or if they have to bring in reusable bags.”

Flagstaff and Tempe dropped their plans for plastic bag bans when the law was passed. Bisbee repealed its ordinance in 2017 after Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich said the ban violated state law and he threatened to withhold state funding from the city.

“It’s about being a leader,” Giannonatti said. “It’s the right thing to do for the environment and for the coming generations.”

Kroger is the latest large company to eliminate or reduce single-use plastics in response to environmental concerns. Disney, Starbucks and McDonald’s recently announced plans to get rid of plastic straws.

Chicago, New York, Los Angeles and other cities also have taken up the fight against plastic waste with bans or fees on plastic bags.

Similar efforts have been tried in Arizona. Bisbee passed an ordinance in 2012 that banned retailers from providing plastic bags. A few years later Flagstaff and Tempe considered similar ordinances.

But in 2015, the legislature prohibited cities and municipalities from regulating plastic bags and other single-use containers. Supporters say the law was needed because retail organizations and state lawmakers were concerned about confusing people with a patchwork of local ordinances.

“A law like this makes it consistent throughout the state,” said Tim McCabe, president of the Arizona Food Marketing Alliance. “Consumers and

Diane Brown, executive director of the Arizona Public Interest Research Group, a consumer advocacy organization, said Arizona’s law means businesses and individuals will have to lead the effort to reduce single-use plastics in the state,

“By Kroger taking the lead and stating that it will phase out single-use plastic bags, we expect other large grocery chains and businesses will recognize the economic and public health benefits and follow suit,” Brown said.

Single-use plastics have come under increasing fire for their harm to wildlife and the environment.

The average American uses about 1,500 plastic bags a year, but only 1 percent are recycled, according to the Center for Biological Diversity in Tucson. The rest end up in landfills or the ocean, where the bags break down into microplastics that contain toxins and can harm wildlife that may mistake the brightly colored plastic for food.

Plastic bags also use large amounts of oil in the manufacturing process, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and worsens air pollution.

“Nothing that we use for a few minutes should threaten our health for hundreds of years,” Brown said.

Avondale resident John Pappas allegedly had child pornography on an overwritten hard drive. (Photo courtesy Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office)

Edgar Joseph loads plastic grocery bags into his car outside of a Fry’s Food & Drug Store. Kroger, which owns Fry’s, will phase out plastic bags by 2025. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Cronkite News)

Braille U.S. flag gives the blind a patriotic feel

By Coral Moon-Lewis, Esther Lloyd and Flora Conley

The Copper State Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution gave a braille United States flag to Tom Hicks of the Phoenix VA Health Care System on November 7.

Copper State Chapter members from Litchfield Park made this presentation after learning about Hicks and his service to his country and community. Hicks serves as Advanced Low Vision Clinic supervisor and Vision Impairment Services Team coordinator.

The 8-by-10 color version of the braille American flag is produced from a lightweight tactile plastic that durably maintains the raised colors, stars, stripes and Braille dots to give nonsighted individuals a sense and feel of the American flag. It also includes the Pledge of Allegiance in braille superimposed on the stripes. Copper State Chapter also presented Hicks with braille copies of the preamble to the Constitution and the Star-Spangled Banner lyrics.

Hicks began losing his sight in 1996, while a captain in the U.S. Army and assigned to military intelligence at Fort Huachuca. After about 18 months he was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic disorder which causes loss of vision.

In November 1997, after 13 years of meritorious military service, Hicks medically retired from the Army and began rehabilitation to adjust and cope with his diagnosis.

For the next nine years Hicks earned two master’s degrees and went through additional stints in rehab and several jobs, including some in vision impairment programs.

After his first master’s in business administration in 1999 and having difficulty finding a position, Hicks pursued a career in vision rehabilitation. In 2006 he completed a master’s degree in vision rehabilitation and applied for a job at the Vision Impairment Services Team.

Hicks said the team saved his life. He explained many veterans come to the Advanced Low Vision Clinic unaware they are considered legally blind. Accepting this diagnosis can be difficult and emotional, he said. Hicks didn’t accept his diagnosis until he ran into a concrete pole.

As a blind veteran for more than 20

years, he counsels other visually disabled veterans and sets up individualized programs to meet their needs.

Hicks has continued to help those in the blind and visually impaired community. He formerly served as president and vice president of the local chapter of the Blinded Veterans Association; formerly served under Govs. Janet Napolitano, Jan Brewer and Doug Ducey on the Arizona Governor’s Council on Blindness and Visual Impairment; and serves on the board of directors of the Foundation for Blind Children, a nonprofit serving all Arizonans with blindness and other disabilities.

While working with the Foundation for Blind Children, they hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim in one 15-hour trek in 2010 and set world records climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in 2009. He owns Arizona Blind Dragon Martial Arts school in Gilbert where, as a fifth-degree blackbelt, he and four other blackbelt instructors teach karate to 30 students.

However, Hicks’ passion is the Advanced Low Vision Clinic. He wants veterans with vision issues to be aware of the clinic’s services. At the clinic, veterans may receive training in vision rehabilitation, low-vision skills, mobility instruction and evaluation for devices that may help to enhance vision and travel. Psychosocial counseling for adjustment to low vision or blindness is also available. For more information contact the Vision Impairment Services Team coordinator at 602-2775551, ext. 7236.

To purchase a braille American flag, there’s a minimum $5 donation, and a portion of all proceeds goes to the Blinded Veterans Association. To learn more about the braille flag or to order one, visit the Kansas Braille Transcription Institute’s website at kbti.org or call 316-265-9692. To learn more about becoming a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Copper State Chapter, contact Esther Lloyd at 623-876-2062.

Mary Chapman, Flora Conley, Coral Moon-Lewis and Esther Lloyd, of the Copper State Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, give a braille American flag to Tom Hicks. (Photo courtesy Copper State Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution)

Buckeye Police K-9 Ivan dies

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Retired Buckeye Police Department K-9 Ivan, a Belgian Malinois from Holland who survived a gunshot wound in a 2013 pursuit of a bank robbery suspect, died recently at age 14.

Ivan served BPD for seven years as a patrol and narcotics K-9. Over the years, Ivan and his handler logged many suspect apprehensions and drug recoveries.

“The K-9 program in police work is invaluable. A human being cannot do the same thing as a K9,” Buckeye Police Chief Larry Hall said.

“While I am sad at the death of Ivan, I am comforted knowing he was an in-

EMCC hosts Skilled Trades Expo on December 1

By Niki D’Andrea

Estrella Mountain Community College will host its second annual Skilled Trades Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, December 1, at its satellite location in Buckeye.

The Skilled Trades Expo is free to attend and open to the public. Students, community members and businesses will be on hand to learn about and share information on job openings, job training, and internship and apprenticeship opportunities for careers in energy, construction and advanced manufacturing.

al Training Facility. Current industry partners for the event include WestMEC, WESTMARC and the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station.

tegral part of helping keep the citizens of Buckeye safe for many years.”

Ivan took first place in the narcotics detection category in the 2011 Desert Dog K-9 Trials.

In 2013, Ivan was shot and wounded in the line of duty while apprehending a bank robbery suspect and protecting his handler and the five other officers on scene. He returned to work two weeks later. He was honored with the Purple Heart at a Buckeye City Council meeting for his service and injuries.

Ivan retired in 2014 and spent the rest of his days at his handler’s home as a beloved family member.

UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS — Learn the different types of senior care available

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE Our Advisors have the local knowledge to help you hand pick communities in your area

SIMPLIFY Your dedicated Advisor will simplify your search and help schedule tours

More than 250 attendees and 30 to 40 business exhibitors are expected this year, according to Trineka D. Greer, public relations and marketing manager for EMCC. She said the college’s most popular skilled trade educational programs include the power plant technology and industrial manufacturing and emerging technologies Associates of Applied Science degree programs.

“More specifically, mechanical and electrical systems technology certificate of completions (CCL) provide training for systems found in commercial and industrial facilities. These programs focus on maintenance and operations for power generation and industrial technologies,” Greer said. “This is achieved through applied learning and hands-on training that occurs in industrial training labs using state-of-the-art equipment.”

Visitors to the EMCC Skilled Trades Expo can see various skilled trade fields in action, including watching onsite demonstrations and taking tours of the West-MEC Energy & Industri-

A Place for Mom has helped over a million families find senior living solutions that meet their unique needs.

There may be opportunities for onthe-spot interviews, so candidates are encouraged to bring resumes and to dress appropriately for an employment interview. In addition to providing possible job opportunities, Greer said the goal of the expo is to “introduce and expand awareness about careers in energy, manufacturing and construction.”

“There is an increasing demand to fill jobs in those trades locally and throughout the state,” Greer said. “The expo will connect industry, tradespeople, and education partners at one event to help prepare the communities we serve for workforce success and continuous learning. This is an opportunity for our students, job seekers, and community to network with various skilled trades professionals and learn more about current and future career opportunities.”

The Estrella Mountain Community College Skilled Trades Expo takes place at EMCC at West-MEC Southwest Campus, 500 N. Verrado Way in Buckeye. Attendees can register for the event at eventbrite.com/e/skilledtrades-expo-tickets-51782777682.

Buckeye Police Department K-9 Ivan was wounded during the pursuit of a bank robbery suspect in 2013. (Photo courtesy Buckeye Police Department)

Liv, Rockefeller unveil new communities in Goodyear, Phoenix

By West Valley View staff

Liv Communities and development partner Rockefeller Group unveiled the newest Liv community, located at 15361 W. Virginia Avenue, near Pebble Creek Parkway, October 24.

A day earlier, local dignitaries and project team members were on hand for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Liv North Valley, located at 31113 N. North Valley Parkway and the extension of the Loop 303 freeway in Phoenix.

Representing a capital investment of more than $100 million, the pair are the seventh and eighth Liv communities completed in Arizona and Michigan. Six of those communities are in Arizona, three of which are in partnership with Rockefeller Group.

“We don’t just build buildings, we design communities where people connect and build meaningful relationships,” said Bill Fettis, partner, Liv Communities. “Sustainability, technology, wellness and community form the roadmap for our neighborhoods”

Liv North Valley features 385 units covering 490,000 square feet. Liv Goodyear comprises 326 units covering 400,000 square feet. Both communities offer luxury apartments in two- and three-story buildings. Each community maintains 24/7 amenities, including over-sized and well-appointed gyms. Amenities include The Hub (a high-tech clubhouse), Liv Well (onsite personal training and group fitness), indoor and outdoor community entertainment and recreation, saltwater heated pool and spa, and walking paths.

“The Liv brand has been enthusiastically welcomed into the markets where we have built,” said Heidi Arave, vice president, Liv Multifamily. “The first Liv community, Liv Avenida, was in-

The Halal Guys grand opening set for December 1 in Avondale

By West Valley View staff

troduced to the Valley in Chandler in 2012 and right away we demonstrated that we deliver on our promise to help people Liv fuller lives.

“Awareness of our brand has grown quickly and we are proud of the reputation we’ve earned. As for our newest developments, we are very happy with the feedback on both communities from our customers and new residents,” Arave said.

According to CoStar, the North Phoenix and West Valley submarkets are a major draw for renters because of the many nearby jobs and they remain relatively affordable. Arave said the demographics of Liv residents range from millennials to retirees. Luke Air Force Base also provides a strong base of residents at Liv Goodyear, she said.

Jamie Wessels, property manager at Liv Goodyear, said that community has helped bring density and quality to the West Valley city.

“Liv Goodyear has really been welcomed to the West Valley,” Wessels said. “They are grateful for a Class A community with 24-hour amenities. The servicemen and servicewomen at Luke like the flexibility. It has also helped support the existing retail businesses located nearby. The more residents, the more need for goods and services.”

Liv Communities feature a community garden, bark park for residents’ dogs, and sand volleyball court. They are both smoke-free communities. Liv North Valley also offers their residents a playground.

“It takes a great team to take projects like these from vision to reality,” said Daniel Moore, president and CEO of Rockefeller Group. “We’re proud to be partners with the team at Liv in the development of these communities.”

New York’s famous food cart, The Halal Guys, will open its fifth Arizona location on Saturday, December 1, at 10277 W. McDowell Road, Suite 100, in Avondale. The grand opening festivities include a complimentary entrée for the first 100 people in line at 11 a.m. Celebrations will continue until 3 p.m. with a hot sauce eating contest, promotions and giveaways. In addition, any guest who donates cans to the canned food drive to benefit St. Mary’s Food Bank can receive a “buy one, get one” sandwich or platter special. Guests who bring a canned food tem and buy an entree will receive one free entree (of equal value) every month through October 2019.

Operating franchisee AJ Ahmed expressed excitement at bringing The Halal Guys menu of gyro sandwiches and chicken and rice platters to Avondale.

“Although The Halal Guys continues to grow rapidly, each Arizona location will always be extra special to me as it

was my first home in the states,” Ahmed said. “Having the ability to introduce more Arizonans to The Halal Guys and the food we serve is so exciting to experience and hits close to home. We look forward to getting to know the local community and giving back during our food drive in Avondale.”

The Halal Guys in Avondale will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, visit thehalalguys.com.

The Halal Guys’ menu of gyro sandwiches and chicken and rice platters will soon be available in Avondale. (Photo courtesy The Halal Guys)

Liv Communities and Rockefeller Group partnered for a pair of new communities. One is in Goodyear. (Photo courtesy Madrid Media)

OUR READERS’ VIEWPOINTS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Goodyear councilwoman disputes letter about new judge

Editor:

The city of Goodyear recently announced the selection of its new municipal judge, Mayra Galindo. While many residents are looking forward to the experience she will bring, along with her commitment to public service, I am surprised one resident doesn’t feel that way.

In a November 22 Letter to the Editor, Goodyear resident Chris Howard suggested the selection process for Judge Galindo was biased, stating that she and I worked together previously and went to college together. This is simply not true. The first time I met her was this past October during the judicial selection process.

I graduated from the University of Arizona seven years before Judge Galindo. In addition, I previously worked at the Phoenix City Prosecutor’s Office while she worked at the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office; two completely separate organizations. Mr. Howard also suggested that other candidates were more qualified than Judge Galindo. This is also not true. The city of Goodyear has put in place a solid recruitment process that guarantees only the most qualified candidate is selected for any given position. In this case, an independent Judicial Selection Committee (JSC) comprised of two judicial members and three citizens of Goodyear reviewed 32 applicants. They selected four of those candidates for council consideration. After an extensive review and discussion, Judge Galindo was unanimously selected for her demonstrated qualifications, temperament and commitment to her profession.

Finally, Mr. Howard states that Judge Galindo knows nothing about this community. While she will be new to Goodyear, what she knows about is the rule of law. That is why she was chosen. I am confident our residents will welcome her to our great city and give her a chance. That’s what makes Goodyear great.

I thank Mr. Howard for his passion for the judicial selection process. I

hope he, and all Goodyear residents, continue to be engaged with what happens in local government. We are a better city because of our residents. Be reassured, be confident, that what’s best for Goodyear is always the top priority, and is at the heart of all the decisions we make as your city council.

Councilwoman Sheri Lauritano Goodyear

Gun control vs. nut control

Editor:

With the number of mass shootings this year, one wonders what motivates a person to do such a thing. A person like this should never own a weapon. Although a gun can kill a lot faster and more efficiently than, say, a knife, hammer, etc., it still takes a mentally unstable person to do such an act. I for one do not want to give up my constitutional right to bear arms. I want to protect myself and others from the “nut with a gun.” However, I agree with more gun control screening to weed out the nuts. But this will not stop criminals, the mentally disturbed, etc., from acquiring guns. Usually, illegal weapons are obtained by the purchase of stolen guns, weapons, etc. In conclusion, we don’t need gun control, we need better nut control.

Taking guns from normal people only inhibits their ability to protect themselves and their loved ones from a wild, crazed mass shooting nut. The shooter in the last bar shooting could have been stopped before so many lives were lost. The armed officer who lost his life had a gun but didn’t use it in time to save himself or others. If another patron had had a gun, he might have been able to stop the shooter with less loss of lives to the innocent. If someone points a gun at you, they might as well use it. However, if a crazed shooter knows that others around him are armed, he may have second thoughts. If not, then another person with a gun could stop him from taking innocent lives.

Americans have the right to bear arms and protect themselves and their families. Therefore, the focus should not be on gun control but on nut control.

P.S. Maybe we should apply nut control screenings to our politicians.

It seems like a logical approach considering what has been going on with them. Maybe we should rename the “White House” to “Nut House.”

Dennis Wood Goodyear

Weep for our country

Editor:

On November 11, The Atlantic published an article by Edward Isaac Dovere, staff writer and former Washington correspondent for Politico.

He based the article on an interview with Nancy Pelosi and contributed his own observations. After a throwaway line that Pelosi reluctantly doesn’t want to go there, he sadly showcased the difference between Democrats and Republicans, as Democrats take over the House.

Citations from the article are in brackets.

[Since Election Day, Pelosi has been in touch with Adam Schiff, Jerry Nadler and Elijah Cummings, the incoming chairs of the Intelligence, Judiciary, and oversight committees, respectively, which will be the core of the House Democrats’ aggressive investigation of the administration. She’s also brought in the chairs of other committees, like Financial Services to track potential money laundering and Homeland Security to look into election integrity. Staffers have been meeting weekly since early last year, coordinating strategy and communications in the minority, and

those meetings will now be amped up as they try to find connections between oversight and proactive policy moves on climate and other legislation.]

Also, [“Recognize one point,” Pelosi told me during an interview in the conference room of her minority-leader suite in the Capitol late Friday: “What Mueller might not think is indictable could be impeachable.”]

The author questions Pelosi on whether or not Trump is stable… More never-Trumper fake news follows a formula: Pose a question and then report on it. Pelosi confirmed this strategy in a video making the rounds on Twitter. The author’s points are not facts but musings about Trump including his motivations, intelligence and sanity… Clearly not derivative of his accomplishments.

Trump is clearly disturbed by the behavior of these so-called journalists and is so fed up he is not attempting to be balanced in his treatment of them. They demand he conduct press conferences the way they want them conducted. Trump should just not do press conferences. He would not be the first president to adopt that strategy of dealing with a media clearly aligned to bring down the president.

[Pelosi said people should pray for the country as long as Trump is in charge. She’s not sure of his mental condition. She thinks he’s degraded the Constitution and American values.

She says the intelligence assessments are indisputable in showing that Russia interfered in the 2016 election. She thinks the firing of Jeff Sessions and the appointment of Matthew Whitaker as acting attorney general in a clear move against the Mueller probe “is perilously close to a constitutional crisis.”]

Note the key word in this view is “thinks.” Then, she added that’s not enough.

[“You have to have evidence, evidence of the connection. Everything’s about the connection,” Pelosi explained.

“Maybe there’s something else in his tax returns. Maybe there’s something that’s beyond the special counsel’s scope. Maybe there’s something Trump has yet to do.”

“That’s why we want to see the documents,” Pelosi said. “Because we’re seeking truth. We’re seeking truth for the American people about the integrity of our elections, and honoring the Constitution.”]

Now this is what is called a fishing expedition. It is a formula for dysfunctional government focused on power struggles, rather than improving the country for its citizens.

This compares very unfavorably with what Trump has focused on and what he has accomplished for the country.

It is also the type of behavior that divides the country, including families.

Couple this with the violent behavior as exhibited by Antifa and you have all the elements you need for 1960s-style

CORRECTION

In the November 14 Business Briefcase column, it should have said Yvette Cooke is the sole owner of UCreate Art Center.

violence with pitched street battles, bombings, bank robberies, kidnapping and murder.

Here’s a big problem… These musings are based on prejudicial suspicions where presumed motivation is as good as actual transgressions. The standards of guilt are similar to lynch mobs. Democrats and the agenda-driven news media are seriously engaged in this travesty of civility.

[“Democrats will argue that the president never did anything but big talk and tweets.”]

This showcases the shallow arguments used by never-Trumpers. Somehow they think repetition of characterizations of Trump’s actions and motivations, which are merely expressions of their bigotry, will resound as truth to independents, since never-Trumpers need no evidence. Feelings suffice for them. Logic and reasoning winds up in the roadside trash receptacle.

Arthur F. Laramee Surprise

How to get a letter published

250 N. Litchfield Road, Ste. 130, Goodyear, AZ 85340 E-mail:

editor@westvalleyview.com

The West Valley View welcomes letters that express readers’ opinion on current topics. Letters must include the writer’s full name, address (including city) and telephone number. The West Valley View will print the writer’s name and city of residence only. Letters without the requisite identifying information will not be published. Letters are published in the order received, and they are subject to editing. The West Valley View will not publish consumer complaints, form letters, clippings from other publications or poetry. Letters’ authors, not the View, are responsible for the “facts” presented in letters.

Cornerstone development not in Litchfield Park’s best interest

By Philip Houck

I am opposed to the September 26, 2018, Litchfield Park rezoning proposal as well as GPA 18-02 because I do not believe the city’s best interests will be served by granting the requested concessions to JDM.

The city of Litchfield Park exists to promote the general welfare of its citizens for the long term. Money is required to make the government function; this money is generally obtained by tax revenues. The requested change to the city’s general plan as well as to its zoning will adversely affect the long-term tax revenue of Litchfield Park. Consequently, I believe it is in the best interest of the city to deny both requests in their entirety.

JDM is an economic entity whose reason for being is financial profit; it works with and helps the city only to benefit JDM’s bottom line. The city does receive benefits, but they exist only to the extent that the benefits support or contribute to JDM’s making a profit. This observation is not a condemnation, just recognition of reality. This is capitalism in action, and I support it.

JDM is entitled to the highest and best use of their property, consistent with the city of Litchfield Park’s existing general plan and zoning. When the parcel in question was purchased it was zoned commercial. At that time, JDM must have seen value in the property that exceeded its price or else they would not have purchased it. In 2014, the city provided concessions for this parcel that further enhanced its value. Today, JDM seeks additional concessions – page 2 of the GPA 18-02 narrative requests that the city of Litchfield Park waive all of the commercial requirements:

“Specifically, JDM is seeking to eliminate or reduce the requirement that at least 75,000 square feet of commercial floor area be developed on Parcel B before or concurrently with any residential development on Parcel B.” I believe the existing commercial requirements on Parcel B were created by the city after careful deliberation and that the requirements are necessary for the long-term health of our community.

Given JDM’s current request, their multiple requests of 2014, the fact that they make money as a property developer, and their public statements (e.g. West Valley View, March 3, 2014, “City receives general plan amendment proposals”), I believe that JDM’s long

game is to dismantle significant portions of The Wigwam’s golf courses and develop them into housing units. They are developers and this thought is consistent with their business, their actions and their profits. They are trying to eat an elephant one small bite at a time and if they are successful the city will have increased expenses without an adequate long-term cash flow to provide the needed services.

Schedule C of the 2019 city budget shows that in 2018 the city obtained about 60 percent of its actual revenue from city sales use and bed taxes. It is not clear what percentage of that tax is attributable to The Wigwam; however, given JDM’s 2014 statements (ref. West Valley View, April 2014, “JDM Partners discuss general plan amendment”) that the Wigwam is an “underperforming” asset and that it “doesn’t make money,” I believe the city needs to consider and plan for the unthinkable – that The Wigwam resort along with its tax contribution might disappear. In this scenario the city is reliant upon sales taxes to fund its budget but there would be no Wigwam Bed Tax. In the financial arena it is an axiom that diversity lowers risk. Having 75,000 square feet of commercial business as well as the apartments on the parcel under consideration (as is currently required) is a more diverse income stream for the city. This diversity provides financial security.

I would like to believe that no member of the Litchfield City Council can look 30 years into the future and with a clear conscience say that the city of Litchfield Park does not need any commercial property in this Cornerstone development, or that a reduced commercial footprint of perhaps 13,000 square feet is adequate.

JDM’s intents and promises can only last until they divest themselves of their properties within Litchfield Park. They currently promise to have an ownership interest in the Cornerstone development only through the development of this property, not for an extended period (ref. rezoning application Project Narrative, page 2, last paragraph). This does not indicate that they have a longterm interest.

In 2014, JDM was committed to a minimum of 50,000 square feet of retail development on this parcel (ref. West Valley View, April 2014, “JDM Partners discuss general plan amendment”). Today they seek to eliminate

the commercial requirement in its entirety. Things change, perhaps to the city’s detriment.

I am skeptical that JDM’s proposal works in the best interest of the city of Litchfield Park. For the city to relinquish future commercial revenue as requested by GPA 18-02 is foolhardy. Once a piece of property is developed, the likelihood of its land use changing is vanishingly small. Any forgone income is, in effect, lost forever and is therefore a threat to the long-term security of the city.

Because JDM is in the business of developing high-quality properties, I believe that they have both the proficiency and capability to find appropriate commercial enterprises for the Cornerstone development that will both serve their residents and will compliment the proposed City Center development.

A 30-year economic planning horizon seems reasonable for our city. Therefore, I suggest an alternative “win-win” concept that should be revenue neutral to the city of Litchfield Park for that time period.

If the city were to estimate the

present value of 30 years’ worth of lost commercial revenue between the property’s currently zoned income potential and JDM’s requested rezoning of no commercial, that dollar value could be assessed against the property such that it is paid prior to development of the parcel. Litchfield Park could then invest the money and be made whole for the next 30 years. If this idea represents a cost that JDM considers too substantial, they do not have to proceed with development of this parcel and neither the city nor JDM is harmed. If Parcel B remains undeveloped and the proposed Litchfield Park City Center becomes a reality, the value of the parcel will increase, much to the benefit of JDM as well as to the city of Litchfield Park.

The city has no duty to further mitigate JDM’s risk or improve their profit. Granting the requested zoning change and/or GPA 18-02 is not in the best interest of Litchfield Park.

WEST VALLEY VISION CENTER

DAVID LEIBOWITZ WILL RETURN NEXT WEEK.

Business Briefcase

By Connor Dziawura

Hello, readers! I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving full of family, friends and – who can forget? – food. But now that Thanksgiving and its subsequent holiday sales have passed, it’s time to prepare for the winter holidays. In the meantime, let’s get back to our regular routine.

I’m back with several new businesses, and this week I’ll be sticking with Litchfield Park and Goodyear. From a handmade local company that has its own space to new chiropractic offerings and more, plenty is going on in the West Valley. Here’s the news!

First, Love You a Latte Shop is gearing up for its grand opening. Though the business has been online since 2012, December 1 marks the debut of the business’ brick-and-mortar shop in Goodyear. It sells handmade items, ranging from coffee mugs to hand towels. “All Arizona made,” according to owner Melinda Tovar, the shop will also have other vendors selling items. Love You a Latte Shop will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. opening day. The first 100 customers will get free swag bags with a variety of items, which Tovar estimated at a $50 value. It is located at 560 N. Bullard Avenue, Suite 60, Goodyear, at the northwest corner of Bullard Avenue and Van Buren Street, south of I-10. For all the business has to offer, visit loveyoualatteshop.com.

ner of Litchfield and Indian School roads. For more information, visit desertwestchiropractic.com/cryotherapy or call 623-935-2929.

“Being in that intense cold, what it does is obviously it helps decrease infl ammation in your whole body,” Pfeifl e explained. “The other thing it does is it will basically get your body into a fi ght-or-fl ight mode where it gets your sympathetic nervous system going, so it will take all the blood from your extremities and it takes it up to the core where it then becomes oxygenated.

“It removes toxins; it puts in new nutrients; your body will also release encephalons and endorphins, which are your natural painkillers in your body,” he continued. “And then of course you get the adrenaline release, too. So when you come out of the machine, that blood flushes back out to the tissues where it’s now oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood redelivering back to the tissues to promote healing.”

Over in Litchfield Park, Divas and Dudes Too has joined the Fringe Salon, Salon 405 and Beauty Box Salon family. The salons’ owners recently acquired Divas and Dudes Too, 501 E. Plaza Circle, as it was set to close. The new owners kept Divas and Dudes Too’s staff on board, while adding employees from the closing Salon De Cheveux. The renovation will give the

Love You a Latte Shop will complete the move away from online-only sales with the opening of its brick-and-mortar shop in Goodyear on Saturday, December 1. Love You a Latte Shop is located at 560 N. Bullard Avenue, Suite 60. (Photos

salon a more modern look with new paint, lighting and stations and shampoo bowls for hair stylists, according to Randee Marafioti, one of the owners.

“That salon will have a whole new look for it. We wanted to really revamp it and make it a lot more modern looking in there,” Marafioti said. “That salon’s been around for so long, and so we kind of really wanted to go in there and update it.”

Several locations will be in the market for additional stylists come January, Marafioti noted. Divas and Dudes Too is located off Indian School Road, between Litchfield and Dysart roads.

Finally, Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce members can stop by Liv Goodyear, 15361 W. Virginia Avenue, from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, December 6, for the Fa La La After Hours

Hosted by the chamber’s events committee, the event will feature pictures with Santa, local restaurant food, homemade treats, holiday “spirits” and stress relief activities. This event is for chamber members only, though family and friends are allowed, too. For more information, contact the chamber at 623-932-2260 or info@southwestvalleychamber.org

That’s all the briefs for this week. Thanks for reading!

Have an item for Business Briefcase? Email Connor Dziawura at cdziawura@timespublications.com.

Keeping with Goodyear, Desert West Chiropractic, 3301 N. Litchfield Road, Suite 200, now does whole body cryotherapy. The practice, which uses cold temperatures to treat patients, helps with acute injuries, chronic pain, inflammation, workout and athletic recovery, post-surgical recovery, burning calories, skin tightening and even energy, according to Dr. Brett Pfeifle, who said patients previously had to travel to other parts of the Valley to seek this treatment method. Pfeifle described it as a chamber that, using liquid nitrogen to cool down air, can get anywhere from -100 to -180 degrees. Desert West Chiropractic is near the southeast cor-

Veteran finds photography, woodworking calming

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

When Nate Lawson left the military, he was plagued with separation anxiety and depression. Two things settled his mind: photography and woodworking.

“I found photography was an escape,” he said. “I got out prematurely, I guess. I was able to do my own thing and be alone. I could forget about everything.

“Woodworking is the same thing. I can go out in the garage, shut the garage door, turn on my music and be in my own little world. I refuse to take drugs for any of my problems.”

Still, it was challenging for another reason: Lawson, who moved from Wyoming to Buckeye, has had an essential tremor since he was a child. According to the International Essential Tremor Foundation, essential tremor is a neurological condition that causes a rhythmic trembling of the hands, head, voice, legs or trunk. Some people even feel an internal shake.

It is often confused with Parkinson’s, but it’s eight times more common, affecting an estimated 10 million Americans and millions more worldwide.

“Woodworking and photography helped my tremor,” he said. “Of course, I had to choose two of the biggest things that require the most use of my hands and my hands shake. It’s forced me to find new and different ways to do things.”

Woodworking is a hobby/ second job born out of necessity. His camera filters came in leather boxes so small that he couldn’t confidently remove and hold them.

“I thought I’d find a box that is a little bigger, with more room to get them out. That led me down the internet rabbit hole. I got on Google and Pinterest and I lost track for a few hours looking at little boxes.”

Lawson, who works as a security guard, created the boxes himself and has since founded Black Tooth Woodworking, which sells pieces at Screws and Sparkles, 425 E. Monroe Avenue, Buckeye, and through his website,

blacktoothwoodworking.com. Previously, he relied on Instagram to spread the word. It was there that Screws and Sparkles’ Sophia Martinez saw his work.

“She invited local makers to email her,” he said. “I emailed her and didn’t think about it. She contacted me through Instagram and liked what I was doing.

“It made me feel good. She put them up on a little shelf. I’m glad she reached out. This is a first for me. I’ve usually just done things for myself, my wife or my family. Ironically, I haven’t made that little box.”

He has built a patio set, coffee table and end tables for his family using homemade shop furniture.

“I made a lot of shop furniture to make my life easier,” he said. “I used photography as a therapy when I got

out of the military. It was pretty rough for me quite a few years afterward. Again, I got out prematurely, but it was my choice.”

Lawson didn’t see combat when he was in the military. A cavalry scout in the U.S. Army, Lawson was deployed to Bosnia in 1998, after its civil war, though.

“They called it a peacekeeping mission. Unfortunately, I went into recruiting right before the unit in Germany went to Iraq.

“People have a hard time with that one: ‘Unfortunately.’ They look at me sideways. The only way to explain it is like this: Go to college for eight years and train to do something and have someone tell you ‘nevermind.’ You’re going to do something you don’t want to do. Now I’ve found something I want to do.”

Veteran Nate Lawson of Buckeye started woodworking as a hobby. His pieces are now sold at Screws and Sparkles. (West Valley View photo by Tim Sealy)

Nate Lawson has taught himself to steady his hands as he works in his shop. He suffers from essential tremor. (West Valley View photo by Tim Sealy)

Avondale golf course brings new tech to the fore

By Eric Newman

Imagine teeing off at California’s Pebble Beach Golf Links and South Carolina’s Harbour Town course, all within a matter of minutes.

At Valley Golf Center in Avondale, that is possible – at least virtually.

Valley Golf Center’s driving range recently installed Topgolf’s Toptracer Range technology, the newest innovation in golf. Paired with a smartphone app, the technology collects several measurables of each shot, and places the golfer at the next virtual shot without walking to it.

“People can come here and play all sorts of different games, like longest drive or closest to the hole. At our eight driving ranges with Toptracer, you can compete with your friends and family on famous courses without having to go all the way to another state or wherever else,” said Tim Farrell, Valley Golf Center’s retail manager.

The technology also stores data like accuracy, spin, velocity and height of each shot.

“It really has changed the way people practice,” Farrell said. “You

can see the exact difference between your two clubs right away, and look at your improvement over time. I’ve seen it be a big deal in people’s games. I’d definitely recommend giving it a try.”

Valley Golf Center 12247 W. Indian School Road, Avondale

623-935-9351, valleygolfcenteraz.com

VALLEY GOLF CENTER TO HOST EVENT

Major golf brands showcase equipment, answer questions and provide professional fittings for free during an event at Valley Golf Center.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, December 7, and Saturday, December 8, golfers will be able to try equipment like drivers, irons, putters, wedges, balls and accessories. The retail store will have special pricing on apparel and accessories.

see how National Debt Relief can

Gema Fernandez, M.D.

Cowling, M.D.

Johnson,

Geier, D.O.

Raymond D. Suarez, M.D.

Erica McLaughlin, M.D.

Using Toptracer Range at Valley Golf Center in Avondale, guests can compete with their friends and family on famous courses without having to travel. (Photo courtesy Toptracer Range)

Millennium swimmer competing for her late coach

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Millennium High School swimmer

Kennedy Noble has an angel on her side. Ryan Kent, her YMCA West Side Silver Fins swim coach who recently passed away, inspired her to be her best.

For that, she may be on track to swim in the Olympics. On top of it, Noble, 14, will swim in the junior nationals in Austin, Texas, on December 5.

“I don’t have any expectations because it’s my first time going to such a big meet,” she said. “I’m going to see what I can do.”

In the summer of 2020, at age 16, she’s planning to swim in the Olympic trials. She needs to finish first or second to make the team. She sees 2024 as a more realistic goal. She is swimming 10 seconds under the qualifying time for the 2020 Olympic trials.

“I’m such a perfectionist,” the Litchfield Park teen said. “When I win anything I always think, ‘What’s the next thing? I have to do something better than this.

“My goal is to slow down, admire what I’ve done and be proud of my-

self. I can easily stay motivated. I love to work hard, and hurt and be uncomfortable in practice and seeing the outcome.”

The outcome has been remarkable. Noble won a state championship in the 100-meter backstroke and set a state record in the process.

“I was a little nervous coming into it,” she said. “It’s very competitive. It’s full of club swimmers. Even though I’m a freshman, I wanted to come in and do whatever I could to get as high as I could.

“I was the youngest person in my heat. I swam for my coach that week-

end. I had a lot of motivation.”

Noble is the daughter of Brett Noble and Tara Hankins, and Jocelyn and Jana Jones-Lybarger. She calls her mom, Jana, an inspiration.

“My mom (Jana) did triathlons when I was younger and she swam every day,” said Noble, who still swims for the Silver Fins when she’s not with Millennium’s team. “I would sit there and watch her for two hours and do nothing else. I started swimming rec at 9. I was pretty good at it. I needed a challenge, so I joined club swimming at 11 and loved it ever since.

“I was successful. My coach, Ryan Kent, passed away and he did a lot for me. He got me where I am today and he taught me to love swimming.

“He was a life mentor,” she said. “He taught me how to bring life lessons to the pool, how to push myself and get through things in my everyday life. I grew as a person. I transferred everything to the pool. I vent in the pool. If I had a bad day, I had a really good practice. I let out everything I feel in the pool.”

Millennium High School swimmer Kennedy Noble, left, credits her late YMCA West Side Silver Fins swim coach, Ryan Kent, for inspiring her. (Photo courtesy Kennedy Noble)

Penny Sings Patsy Concert

e West Valley View publishes on Wednesday. e 9 Days a Week calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue.

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

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

Submissions must reach our office by 4 p.m. Wednesday to be considered for the following Wednesday publication. Submissions must be in writing and may be emailed to Rachel Hagerman, rhagerman@timespublications.com or faxed to 623-935-2103.

NOVEMBER

Wednesday

Enjoy a Patsy Cline tribute concert at 7 p.m. at the Pebble Creek Tuscany Ballroom, 16262 Clubhouse Drive, Goodyear. Tickets are $25. For information, call 623-935-6720.

Tai Chi @ the Library Certified Tai Chi instructor John Leo will give free weekly lessons for adults at the White Tank Branch Library at 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell, from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Not Hungry Tonight

Not Hungry Tonight is a program that hopes to stop hunger and food insecurity in communities one person at a time. The group meets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s kitchen, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 623-932-2394.

Escape the Library (Ages 13-21)

Work with friends, coworkers or neighbors to solve puzzles and escape a library room from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Litchfield Park Branch Library, 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. Each session accommodates three to seven people. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Monroe Avenue. For information, call 623-349-6613.

Sunday

Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-333-4402.

Wednesday

Saturday DECEMBER

28

Litchfield Park Museum

The Litchfield Park Museum has returned to its winter schedule: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. Admission and parking is free. The museum is located at 13912 W. Camelback Road. For information, call 623-535-4414 or visit litchfieldparkhistoricalsociety.org.

Junior Book Club (Ages 8-12)

Children are encouraged to read a book each month before joining Lila for a book discussion and activities from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Tolleson Public Library, 9555 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Come and Play with Me

Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library hosts a weekly open-play group at 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale, at 11 a.m. for children through age 5. For information, call 623-333-2601.

Verrado Visionaries

Stop by the Verrado Grille at 4242 N. Golf Drive, Buckeye, to join fellow businessmen in a West Valley networking group at 7 a.m. each Wednesday. For information, call 623-640-6268.

Children’s Christian Community Choir

The Church at Litchfield Park offers a free music program for children in kindergarten through fifth grade at 5:30 p.m. each Wednesday at 300 N. Old Litchfield Road. For information, call 623-935-3411.

Estrella Republican Club

The Estrella Republican Club meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. each fourth Wednesday of the month to listen to a guest speaker at Estrella Foothills High School, 13033 S. Estrella Parkway. For information, call 623-695-2435.

Paws for Reading Preschoolers and school-age chil-

dren can visit Litchfield Park Branch Library with a parent to practice reading with a registered therapy dog. The Paws for Reading program starts at 4 p.m. at 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Thursday

Al-Anon Stepping Stones

The Christ Presbyterian Church at 925 N. Sarival Avenue, Goodyear, hosts a weekly Al-Anon meeting at 7 p.m. Al-Anon seeks to support the friends and families of alcoholics. For information, call 623-882-0721.

Toddler Storytime

Bring children to the Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street, so they can hear picture books read aloud and play with other toddlers at 11 a.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Family Storytime (Ages 2-6)

Join other families for simple stories and plots that help develop literacy for children at 11:15 a.m. in the Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale. For information, call 623-333-2601.

Walking Program

Join others for a morning walk from 7:15 to 8:15 a.m. at Buckeye Community Center, 201 E. Centre Avenue. This program is free to all Buckeye Senior Program participants. Registration is required. For information, call 623-349-6600.

Friday

30

Aerobics on Tape

Join a morning exercise program at 9 a.m. at the Avondale Community Center, 1007 S. Third Street. For information, call 623-333-2705.

Ninth Annual Menorah Lighting

2Head over to Osborne Jewelers, 15350 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear, at 5 p.m. to help build a giant coin menorah and enjoy hot soup, latkes, doughnuts, kids’ crafts and entertainment, including a spectacular show by Mark the Science Guy. Admission is free. Sponsorships are available from $72 to $180. For more information, call 623.466.6110 or visit jewishgoodyear.com/coin.

Sea Lions at Shipwreck Cove

Come see an educational show starring California Sea Lions and skilled trainers at 11:30 a.m. in a pirate-themed exhibit at Wildlife World Zoo, 16501 W. Northern Avenue, Litchfield Park. This show is free with admission. For information, call 623-935-9453.

Contemplative Prayer and Meditation

Babies and Books (Ages 0-2)

The Avondale Civic Center Library at 11350 W. Civic Center Drive invites parents to bring their babies from 10:15 to 11 a.m. to promote early development. Babies will learn with books, music and playtime activities. For information, call 623-333-2602.

Teen Leadership Club

Teen Leadership Club is a group that creates and carries out new programs for the Goodyear Branch Library. The team meets from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the library, 14455 W. Van Buren Street. Registration is required. For information, call 602-651-3507.

Goodyear City Council Regular Meeting

The Goodyear City Council meets at 6 p.m. in the Goodyear Justice Center, 14455 W. Van Buren Street. For information, call 623-932-3910.

Avondale City Council Meeting

Avondale City Council meets at 7 p.m. in the Avondale Council Chambers, 11465 W. Civic Center Drive. For information, call 623-333-1000.

Tuesday

Preschoolers Storytime

The Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street invites preschool-age children to read books, sing songs and take part in activities at 11 a.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Agua Fria Toastmasters

Visit a Toastmasters Community meeting to become a stronger public speaker and leader from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. at Mimi’s Cafe, 1220 N. Dysart Road, Goodyear. For information, call 775-250-0949.

Disciple Outreach

Ministries Bible Study

Disciple Outreach Ministries, a non-denominational ministry, invites all to a Bible study at 7 p.m. each Wednesday at 10486 W. Emerald Lane, Avondale. For information, call 623-772-0144.

Lunch & Bunco

Come down to the Goodyear Library at 14455 W. Van Buren Street from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch, Bunco and prizes. The cost is $15. Registration is required. For information, call 623-882-7525.

1

St. Peter’s RePete Boutique

Stop by St. Peter’s Episcopal Church at 400 S. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, for casual and formal apparel, jewelry, books, household items and home décor between 9 a.m. and noon. For more information, call 623-935-3279.

Buckeye Valley Daughters of American Revolution

Buckeye Valley Daughters of American Revolution meets at 1 p.m. every first Saturday of the month at Buckeye Valley Chamber of Commerce, 508 Monroe Avenue. For information, call 623-386-3465.

Cashion Christmas Event

Join Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in celebrating the holidays from 2 to 5 p.m. with delicious food, festive music, gifts and a visit from Santa at Donnie Hale Park, 10875 W. Pina Street, Avondale.

Holiday Vendor Fair

Sonoran Sky Comets PTA is hosting a holiday vendor fair from 8 a.m. to noon at the school, 10150 W. Missouri Avenue, Glendale. Guests are invited to shop for Christmas, enjoy entertainment by the school’s dance team and see Santa.

Hometown

Holiday Boutique

Shop for unique handmade holiday gifts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sundance Crossings, 21699 Yuma Road, Buckeye. Talented crafters and artisans are encouraged to contact Jessica Thompson at jthompson@ buckeyeaz.gov to participate in the sale.

Magic on Monroe

Celebrate the holidays with city of Buckeye’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony complete with holiday decorations, a screening of the movie Elf holiday kids activities and food vendors from 4 to 9 p.m. at Sixth Street Plaza, 517 E.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church at 400 Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park, invites people desiring to deepen their meditation practice or try meditation for the first time to join them from 3 to 4 p.m. Sundays. All faiths are welcome. For information, call 623-935-3279.

Monday

Baby Time

3

The Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street invites babies and their caregivers to an interactive play time at 10 a.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.

Hope

Stop by Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Classroom C at 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, for the Hope support group from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The goal of the group is to provide help for those struggling with any mental disorder by sharing experiences and supporting others. For information, call 480-994-4407.

Adult Book Club

Stop by the Tolleson Public Library at 9555 W. Van Buren Street for a book discussion from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. For information, call 623-936-2746.

12 Step Group Meeting

Military, veterans and spouses are invited to join a 12 Step Program meeting for recovery from 5 to 6:15 p.m. at the Military and Veterans Success Center, 1532 N. Commissary Road, Glendale. For information, call 480-384-9874.

Avondale Annual Holiday

Used Cooking Oil Drive

Mahoney Environmental and the city of Avondale are teaming up to collect used cooking oil at no cost to the city or its residents to prevent sewer blockages and use old oil to produce a clean, alternative fuel. People can drop off old cooking oil from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday until the end of January 2019 at the Avondale Public Works Municipal Operations Service Center, 399 E.

Bingo

4

The American Legion Post 61 hosts bingo each Tuesday at 6:45 p.m. These bingo nights have 17 games including Quickie, Early Bird, Double Action and a $1,000 progressive game. Come down to 35 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, to support the area’s youth and veterans. For information, call 623-932-4960.

Buckeye

Business Connection

Buckeye Chamber hosts the Buckeye Business Connection from 7:15 to 8:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Chamber office at 508 E. Monroe Avenue. This group serves coffee and a light breakfast and networks with business members in the community. Each week, there will also be a different guest speaker. For information, call 623-386-2727.

Quilters Anonymous

Quilters Anonymous is calling all quilters to meet and work with fellow crafters at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Bingo Hall, 3690 S. Estrella Parkway, Goodyear. For information, call 623-935-1117.

Sewing for Babies

Bring a sewing machine and equipment to join the volunteer Tolleson Community Interfaith Group in creating premature hospital clothing, burial layettes, quilts and more from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 701 N. 95th Avenue, Tolleson. For information, call 623-936-3412.

Estrella Toastmasters

Visit a Toastmasters Community meeting to become a stronger public speaker and leader from 6:30 to 7:45 a.m. at the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce, 289 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 602-391-5781.

Preschool Art Studio

Litchfield Park Branch Library at 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard invites preschool-age children to participate in an hour of art at 10:30 a.m. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Aerobics for a Better You

Bring an exercise mat and hand weights to a free class from 8 to 9 a.m. at the Dr. Saide Recreation Center, 1003 E. Eason Avenue, Buckeye. For information, call 623-349-6350.

AA Meeting

Seek support and recovery from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Fellowship Hall, 918 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear. For information, call 623-932-2394.

Thursday

The Holidays and Essential Oils

Learn how to use essential oils to create a happy, healthy and thriving environment from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at White Tank Branch Library, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Code Club

The Litchfield Park Library invites kids ages 10 to 13 to learn how to code while playing computer games from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. at 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. Registration is required. For information, call 602-652-3000.

Preschool Time

Help prepare preschoolers for reading through music, books, games and crafts from 10:15 to 11 a.m. at the Litchfield Park Branch Library, 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard. For information, call 602-652-3000. United Way Storytime (Ages 0-5) Children can sing, listen to stories and make crafts from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library, 495 E. Western Avenue, Avondale. The first 25 children will receive a free book to take home. For information, call 623-333-2601. CrossFit at Fitness in the Park Fitness in the Park is a free workout program that will cover basic strength and bodyweight training from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Thursday at the Buckeye Sundance Park, 22865 W. Lower Buckeye Road. For information, call 623-349-6350.

Winterfest kicks off Avondale’s holiday season

By West Valley View staff

Avondale’s Winterfest kicks off the city’s holiday celebration on Saturday, December 1, with snow, rides, a tree-lighting ceremony and Santa. This free, family-friendly holiday event is 5 to 8 p.m. at the Avondale Civic Center outdoor amphitheater, 11465 W. Civic Center Drive. Individualized photo opportunities with Santa will be available.

A musical light show at City Hall is featured during the season when the Civic Center amphitheater will be awash in lights that blink to festive holiday music.

Two other free holiday events are featured this December. Soulful Expressions Holiday Caroling will lead guests in singing from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, December 8, at the Civic Center amphitheater.

Watch The Santa Clause during movie night at the Civic Center amphitheater from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 14.

These events are hosted by the city of Avondale. Winterfest is sponsored in part by APS, T-Mobile, Whataburger and the West Valley View. For more information, visit avondale.org/events or call Avondale Parks, Recreation & Libraries Department at 623-333-2400.

Avondale’s Winterfest is from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, December 1. (Photo courtesy city of Avondale)

Matthew Morrison recalls getting his start in Arizona

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Matthew Morrison is fiddling with a guitar when he comes on the line. Always musical, the multitalented actor/singer is excited about his return to the Valley. After all, it was here he got his start.

“I grew up going to Arizona,” Morrison said. “I have a lot of family there. They live in Peoria, Avondale and Glendale. The first time I ever did theater was in Arizona. It was TheaterWorks. I went there one summer at 10 years old and my family threw my cousin and I into the theater for the summer.

“That’s where I caught the bug.” Morrison, who headlines the Scottsdale Arts Gala on Saturday, December 1, said theater appeased his imagination.

“I was an only child,” he said. “Theater was the first place for me to actually take what was going on in my head and put it out there to the world. When people clapped in approval, I thought it was the best thing ever.”

Morrison carried on with theater, making his mark as Link Larkin in Hairspray. Television is on his resume, too, of course. He appeared in a con-

tinuing role on the CBS television hit show The Good Wife, where he played U.S. Attorney Connor Fox through the series finale. Other television credits include guest star roles in seasons 13 and 14 of ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, and as Will Schuester in Fox’s musical-comedy show Glee

Morrison is proud of the variety of his roles.

“For me, as an actor, I don’t want to get complacent in what I’m doing,” said Morrison, a “dance captain” on Simon Cowell’s The Greatest Dancer in England. “Even with Glee, which I spent six years doing, I always found ways to keep it interesting. I love switching it up, from Will Schuester to a character like I had on Grey’s Anatomy, who was a wife beater and a horrible human being. My Good Wife character was dark, too. After I did Glee, I wanted to do darker characters.”

His favorite was Link Larkin in Hairspray

“It was such a great time in my life,” he recalled. “Everyone was so young in that show. Everyone was the same age. The show was the biggest show in New

York that year. We won all the awards.

“As for my most challenging role, it was The Light in the Piazza in 2005. I played a young Italian man. I spoke half in Italian and I had to learn how to sing opera. I felt really good about the performance.”

Broadway is the key to his to his performance at the Scottsdale Arts Gala.

“They wanted a very Broadway-centric show, so I’m going to give it to them,” he said with a laugh. “I just happened to do a couple shows on Broadway. I’m going to go through the shows I’ve been a part of and the songs that touched me and inspired me along the way.

“I’m going to give my own take on those shows and performances and weave a story through it. It wouldn’t be a Matthew Morrison show without dancing.”

Scottsdale Arts Gala

Featuring Matthew Morrison

5 p.m. Saturday, December 1 Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second Street, Scottsdale

Tickets start at $150 480-499-8587, scottsdaleperformingarts.org

ISM Raceway shines with Zoomtown Lights

By West Valley View staff

Zoomtown Lights is racing into ISM Raceway, thanks to Winterland Inc., a manufacturer and operator of light parks, displays and experiences.

The event includes more than 300 displays that use more than 3 million LED lights to transform the raceway into a winter wonderland.

“We’re excited to host Zoomtown Lights at the new ISM Raceway,” said Scott Rovn, ISM Raceway’s vice president of sales and communications.

“This is a great opportunity for us to open up the race track to the community following the completion of the ISM Raceway Project Powered by DC Solar as we continue to expand our event calendar.”

The installation will have sparkling displays and experiences throughout an approximately 1.6-mile course for fans to enjoy from their vehicles. The

themed displays will begin outside the track near the DC Solar Power Pavilion (Midway) and follow a bright trail through the vehicle tunnel and alongside pit road toward the new infield.

While driving throughout the raceway, guests will enjoy snowfall canopies, trees of light as well as special motorsports-inspired displays.

“The new ISM Raceway is the perfect host site for this show,” said David Fred, CEO of Winterland Inc. “This is an exciting opportunity to light up Zoomtown in a unique way for the community.”

Zoomtown Lights will open to visitors every night at 6 p.m. from December 1 to December 31.

Tickets for Zoomtown Lights are $25 per car and $50 for buses. Guests can also purchase a special Speedy Pass entry for $50 that will provide frontof-the-line admission. For tickets, visit ismraceway.com/zoomtownlights.

Matthew Morrison called The Light in the Piazza his most challenging performance. (Photo by Nathan Johnson)

Free festival features local talent and nativity displays

By Carrie Snider

The Goodyear Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints is hoping to spread the word about Christmas’ real meaning with the West Valley Nativity Festival on Friday, November 30, and Saturday, December 1.

The free festival is a chance for people of all faiths to come together and enjoy a large display of nativities and music of the holiday and offer items to the West Valley needy.

The open house is from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Goodyear Stake Center at 425 S. Estrella Parkway in Goodyear.

This year’s theme is Good Tidings of Great Joy, and a host of local music groups will perform: Desert Edge High School Choir, Buckeye Brass Choir, West Valley Cadet Orchestra, West Valley Youth Orchestra, West Valley Women’s Chorale, Goodyear Stake Choir & Orchestra, Buckeye Stake Choir, Mary Wilkening Student Ensemble, cellist Laura Davis, and The Children of Lehi: The Story of Christ in the New World. For performance times, see the West Valley Nativity Festival’s Facebook page.

“This event is a great kick-off to the season of the real meaning of Christmas,” said Cecily Condie, one of the organizers.

This year they partnered with the Homeless Youth Connection, which offers basic needs so children in the area can stay in school.

Festival attendees are encouraged to bring underwear and bras (all sizes), shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, facial cleaner, razors, shaving cream, lotion, sunscreen, body wash, deodor-

ant, grocery or fast-food gift cards in $5 increments.

“This was a tremendous opportunity that was brought to us. We were beyond blown away,” said Chance Bogart of the Homeless Youth Connection. He said this year HYC has served over 600 students across 80 high schools and these necessities make a huge difference in their lives.

“These are the things that go off the shelf quickly,” he added.

For those who want to buy specific Christmas gifts for local homeless teens, they can email info@hycaz.org.

For Goodyear Stake music chairwoman Trista Kruckenberg, it wouldn’t be Christmas without music. And the festival is the perfect way to help people celebrate.

“It’s a way to bring members of the community together regardless of their religion. Music unifies us all in our worship. We also get to see nativities and think about the meaning of Christmas.”

To prepare for the festival, she listens to hours of Christmas music and narrows it down to five songs they will play during their time slot.

“We have really loved performing these songs. They are very impactful.” Besides the music, she added that just walking around the building and seeing the nativities and décor helps people get into the holiday spirit.

West Valley Nativity Festival 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, November 30, and Saturday, December 1

The Goodyear Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints, 425 S. Estrella Parkway Free

The annual West Valley Nativity Festival, held in Goodyear, is free and features many local music groups, as well as a large display of nativities. Those attending can also bring items to donate to the Homeless Youth Connection. (Photo courtesy Cecily Condie)

Sorority chartering event features Jonathan Levingston

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority will charter the Desert Pearls of the West Valley chapter during a Sunday, December 2, luncheon at The Wigwam.

Founded in 1908, the sorority has a tradition of “service to all mankind.”

Alpha Kappa Alpha International President Dr. Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson will attend.

Alpha Kappa Alpha has more than 300,000 collegiate members and alumnae in 1,018 chapters in the United States, US Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Bermuda, Germany, Liberia, South Korea, Japan, Canada, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. There are two graduate and two undergraduate chapters in Arizona.

For information about the charter, contact Dorothy Finnie, Desert Pearls event chairwoman, at desertpearlschartering@gmail.com. Reservations are closed.

Master concerto violinist Jonathan Levingston of Anthem will perform during the luncheon. The Racine, Wisconsin, native began studying the in-

strument at age 7.

“I tried to get a bigger instrument, but my mom knew she’d have to carry it,” Levingston said with a laugh.

“I grabbed a smaller instrument and I took to music very easily.

“I studied all through high school and when I attended University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee,” Levingston said.

He left college to move to Denver because there were more performance opportunities. He made his way to Arizona to teach string programs in Sedona, where he released his debut album of original compositions, And What Would You Like Me To Play? He moved to the Valley to pursue performing.

“I primarily do small private events,”

Levingston said. “I do a lot of weddings, but I’ve performed in parks.”

Levingston plays outside of the box by melding electronic dance and modern music. He is hoping to collaborate with DJs.

“I play anything you hear today on the radio,” he said. “I play ‘Havana’ by Camila Cabello, and Ed Sheeran is pretty popular. I also like EDM artists that a lot of people don’t know about, like Terry Lee Brown Jr. and Deadmau5. I chose these artists because they’re more complementary to the violin. Other artists are too intrusive.

“I really enjoy what I do, though. I enjoy playing and practicing.”

Levingston can be reached at jonathanlevingston.com.

Jonathan Levingston melds electronic dance, classical and modern rock tunes. (Photo courtesy Jonathan Levingston)

The View’s Puzzle Page

SCRAMBLERS

Unscramble the letters within each rectangle to form four ordinary words. Then rearrange the boxed letters to form the mystery word, which will complete the gag!

King Crossword

SUDOKU TIME

Antenna

Green field? 49 Amorphous masses 52 Reggae-like music

Tiny

Dutch city, with “The”

NYC hrs.

“Acid”

Secret rendezvous

“NCIS” airer

Jungfrau, for one

High school science course

-- -European

Family girl

Straw hat

Lasso

Discoverer’s cry

Scent

19 Sailor’s “Halt!” 21 Cyber-address 22 Air safety org. 24 Mid-May honoree

26 Soap opera, e.g. 28 Harder to find 30 Deteriorate 32 Fauna study 33 Bobby of hockey 34 Trawler need 36 Followed orders 38 Not just chubby 39 Ice cubes, slangily

Swell

Snug 45 Census data

Winged

Fly-by-night?

50 Clear the tables 51 Collection

Scouts donate popcorn to Luke AFB troops

By Eric Newman

Employees and those housed at Luke Air Force Base will not lack access to popcorn for quite a while.

North Valley Boy Scout Troop 824 and Cub Scout Pack 536 donated 169 cases of popcorn to Luke Air Force

Base as a goodwill gesture. Popcorn also went to Youth for Troops.

NEWSPAPER LEGAL NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT

“The top-selling troop in the country is from California, and we talked to them at a conference a while back,” pack treasurer Sondra Wendt said.

Ad must be a 1/8th page display ad and must be published in the Wednesday, November 28, 2018 edition

“They said they donated a bunch to the troops, and we figured it would be an

PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY OF AVONDALE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

PLANNING COMMISSION

December 20, 2018 6:00 PM

CITY COUNCIL January 14, 2019 7:00 PM

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 11465 W CIVIC CENTER DRIVE AVONDALE, AZ 85323

PURSUANT TO ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES SECTIONS 9-462.04 et seq., NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission and City Council will be holding separate public hearings at the dates and times set forth above, in the place specified above, at which times and place all interested persons will have an opportunity to appear and be heard in relation to the following:

Conditional Use Permit

This is a public hearing before the Planning Commission and the City Council to review and solicit public input on Application PL-18-0200 Vertical Bridge- E-Z Towing (T-Mobile), a request by Mr. Gary Cassel with Clearblue Services LLC/Vertical Bridge Landco LLC, for a Conditional Use Permit on approximately 3.72 gross acres located at the SEC of Dysart Rd. and Riley Dr.; the E-Z Towing & Recovery site. The request is for a 70-foot tall monopalm wireless service facility with associated ground equipment. The Avondale Zoning Ordinance requires a Conditional Use Permit for all new wireless facilities over 35 feet in height.

Information regarding this application may be obtained by contacting the City of Avondale Planning Division located at 11465 W. Civic Center Dr., Suite 110, Avondale, Arizona. Written comments on this request may be submitted to the Planning Division for consideration by the Planning Commission and City Council If you have any questions concerning this request, please contact Byron Easton with the Avondale Planning Division at (623) 333-4020

awesome thing for us to do, too.”

The scouts toured the base and spoke with active-duty troops, thanking them for their service and hand-delivering popcorn. They saw airplanes as well.

Wendt said the kids were pleased to see the troops’ happy faces, but she

knew exactly how their hours of hard work paid off.

“It’s just great to be able to come out and actually show the kids around,” Wendt said. “I know they really like to see what’s going on, and everybody on base was so good to us. We just wanted to show our appreciation.”

Legacy Avondale to offer Vex Robotics in January

By

Legacy Traditional Schools will soon offer new elective courses for its West Valley junior high students who are interested in STEM-focused classes.

Beginning in January, Legacy schools in Laveen, Surprise, Glendale and Casa Grande will offer Coding 101 – a computer programming course for students in grades seven and eight. Seventhand eighth-grade students at Legacy’s Avondale and Maricopa campuses can take Vex Robotics as an elective.

Students enrolled in Coding 101 will develop the knowledge and coding skills necessary to construct computer programs in one or more languages, including: Java Script, Python and web design. Using the educational platform Tynker, students will engage in project-based lessons where they will learn to build games, animations and more. Upon completion, students will present a business pitch on their final design. In Vex Robotics, students will get an

interactive introduction into the field of robotics and its real-life application in the 21st century. Using STEM standards and hands-on challenges, students will develop their own robots as they learn basic coding and problem-solving skills.

“In today’s technology-driven world, it is more important than ever that we prepare students with coding and computer programming skills like those offered by these programs,” said Heather Sliker, director of academics for Legacy Traditional Schools.

“Over the last several years, coding and robotics have quickly become among the most in-demand skills across virtually every industry. Providing Legacy students a jumpstart now – while igniting an early interest in STEM fields – will be invaluable when they enter the workforce and compete for the jobs of the future.”

For more information about Legacy Traditional Schools, visit legacytraditional.org.

West Valley View staff

Far left, North Valley Boy Scout Troop 824 and Cub Scout Pack 536 are proud of their popcorn project. Middle, Lily Kimbrell and Emaleigh Harmon struggle to carry the boxes of white cheddar cheese popcorn. Right, Devon Lambert takes “chocolatey caramel crunch” popcorn to the troops. (West Valley View photos by Eric Newman)

Buckeye family hosting fundraiser for leukemia-stricken girl

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

When Madi Hanson had a sore throat, her mother, Ashley Jewett, took her to the doctor, as most parents would do.

After a round of antibiotics, her strep throat was gone, but the fever remained. Further blood testing and bone marrow biopsies at Phoenix Children’s Hospital revealed acute myeloid leukemia – on her 5th birthday, October 29.

“Of the four main types of leukemia, she has the worst,” said her grandfather, Jon Rinker. “It’s aggressive and spreads quickly.”

She was admitted to Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the doctors said only 50 percent of the children who have this disease survive five years. Her treatment runs six to nine months.

“We are all devastated,” he said. “Madi just finished her first round of chemo and her hair started falling out. She was scared so her mommy suggested they shave their heads together.

“On November 12, the whole family gathered at the hospital and Ashley’s hairdresser volunteered to cut their hair and shave their heads.”

Jewett, Madi, Madi’s father Chris Hanson, her 3-year-old brother Preston Hanson and Rinker shaved their heads in support. A photographer shared photos from the shoot on her Facebook

page and it went viral with more than 11,000 views and shares.

The family is hosting a fundraiser at Peter Piper Pizza, 764 S. Watson Road, Suite 103, Buckeye from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 5, with a portion of the proceeds going toward Madi’s cost of care. A Facebook page, My Miracle Madi – Our Fight Against Leukemia, has been established. Those who cannot attend the fundraiser but wish to donate can visit https://bit. ly/2RXbAeG. A single mother, Jewett has taken time off from her Realtor job to be with her daughter.

“My motivation is simple,” Jon Rinker said. “I believe in the power of prayer. I believe no matter what happens to my granddaughter, God has her and will forever love her. She may only have a 50-percent chance, but all Madi needs is 1 percent to beat it and has 49 percent more backing her up. The more people who hear about her story and see her pictures, the more prayer warriors she has, the more encouraged she’ll be.

“I think my granddaughter is special, especially now that she is fighting for her life,” he said.

ARIZONA LOVE AND CARE

Agua Fria High School football coach George Martinez and varsity quarterback Tre Lewis paid a visit to the Arizona Love and Care assisted-living facility in Goodyear on Friday, November 16. Together, Martinez and Lewis took time out of their afternoon to visit with residents and sign Agua Fria Owls T-shirts. (Photo courtesy Arizona Love and Care)

Top, Hairdresser Nicolette Dudeck shaves the head of Madi Hanson, who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. Her mother, Ashley Jewett, holds her as Madi’s dad, Chris Hanson, holds her. Right, Ashley Jewett holds her daughter, Madi Hanson, who was diagnosed with leukemia on her 5th birthday. (Photos courtesy Alicia Samone Photography)

Litchfield Park introducing its Youth Council

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Brooke Zanon wants her peers to have a voice on Litchfield Park issues, so she founded the city’s Youth Council.

“I had a friend who attends Goodyear’s Youth Council and I thought, ‘Wow. That would be a really cool thing to do,’” she said.

A go-getter since elementary school, Zanon reached out to Litchfield Park City Council members in August and began working with administrative assistant Chris Moffitt. They spoke about why Zanon wanted to start it and that led to meetings with Moffitt, Mayor Schoaf, City Manager Bill Stephens and Councilman Paul Faith.

of its meetings, so members can effectively communicate with city officials.

Zanon is a longtime political junkie.

“I’ve always been interested in government and politics,” she said. “I was the Model UN secretary. I like the idea of youth being so directly involved in decision making and processing. I think it’s important for youth and government to have that tie.

“She had strong support from all councilmembers and staff,” Moffitt said. “She created the promotional flier and helped with the city’s social media, actively recruiting members as well as providing recommendations for the Youth Council’s main page.

Applications are open to join the Youth Council. Zanon is hosting the first Youth Council meet and greet at 4 p.m. Tuesday, December 4, at Litchfield Park City Hall’s conference room, 214 W. Wigwam Boulevard. She will also speak at the 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 19, city council meeting.

Applicants must be a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior who either live in Litchfield Park or attend Millennium High School and reside in the 85340 ZIP code. For more information, call 623935-5033, email lpyc@litchfield-park. org or visit litchfield-park.org.

“The meet and greet is for any interested students and their parents to directly find out more about it – what we will be doing, how it’s going to operate and how often to be there,” Zanon said.

“They also meet me, hear why I started it and why they will definitely enjoy it.”

Zanon and city officials are considering holding meetings twice a month, but that’s tentative. The commitment also includes volunteering and work outside

“It’s been an amazing outlet for people who have an interest in government and want to express that.”

A senior at Millennium High School, Zanon is hoping to study international relations at Georgetown University, her dream school since her freshman year. She recently interviewed with the school.

Not only is Zanon busy starting the Youth Council, but she is also involved in many activities at Millennium High School such as theater.

“Brooke is a real go-getter and lights up the room,” Moffitt said.

When she meets with the city council, Zanon wants to address the need for a city garden.

“When I was recognized at a flag-raising ceremony by the mayor for my efforts with the youth council, a gentleman who works at my school specializing in landscape came to me with an idea about implementing a garden in the city, where people could gather, socialize, and admire the scenery,” she said.

“His suggestion took me back to my middle school days when I planted a garden at my school to help preserve our polluted atmosphere.”

Overall, the Youth Council can make a difference and Zanon is ready to lead the charge.

“By planting gardens, distributing PSAs, spending volunteering hours cleaning our streets and parks of litter, discussing potential environmental solutions with local schools, etc., I really think the Youth Council can make a huge difference that positively impacts our environment,” she said.

OscarPaulAragon

OscarPaulAragon,age84of Avondale,diedNovember13,2018, inGoodyear.Hewasborn November2,1934,inColdwater,to ThomasandJustitaAragon.Heis survivedbyhiswife,Dawna; daughtersPaulaC.Aragon,Paddii Aragon,JuliaAragon,Denise Aragon;son,TonyAragon;sisters MarthaBodner,LilaSchneider, TheresaA.Faulkner,MaryJane Boirs;brothers,LinoAragon,PatricioAragon,andTony Aragon;ninegrandchildren;17great-grandchildren;and twogreat-great-grandchild.Hewasprecededindeathby hisdaughter,TeresaTewahonayoma;brothersandsisters -in-law,AlonzoandMargieAragon,BenandJean Aragon,AbeandHazelAragon,andMorrisandJuanita Aragon.

Avisitationwillbeheldat9:00amfollowedbya funeralserviceat11:00am,Tuesday,November20, 2018atFirstSouthernBaptistChurch,1001N.Central Avenue,Avondale,AZ85323.Condolencesforthe familymaybeleftat www.ThompsonFuneralChapel.com.

City West. He was born April 10, 1956

alley in Arlington and Litchfield Park

where he was involved in several extracurricular activities including being a member of the debate club and an alto sax player in the Band of Owls Mark had several careers in his 44 year work history. He enjoyed serving the citizens of Arizona as insurance claim liaison at the AZ Department of Insurance for five y

covered when he became a part-time dog trainer at PetsM a r

f T r a i n i n g

After several years there, Mark decided to branch out o n h i s o w n a n d s t a r t e d H o u s e o f H o u n d s , h i s o w n d o g training business in Buckeye He enjoyed working with timid or shy dogs as he said they needed more love and help than confident dogs. He later branched out into re-

t a i l a n d b e c a m e t h e 1 0 y e a r b u s i n e s s o w n e r o f D o g s

E t c , m o s t r e c e n t l y l o c a t e d i n O l d T o w n S c o t t s d a l e

M a r k a lw a y s s aid it is imp o r tan t f o r d o g s to b e tr ain ed

t o b e c o m e w e l l - b e h a v e d a n d b e l o v e d f a m i l y m e m b e r s .

H e n e v e r m e t a d o g h e d i d n ' t l i k e !

M ar k lo v ed B r o ad w a y mu s ica ls a n d n a tio n al to u r in g

c o m p a n i e s b u t h e a l s o w a s a n a v i d s u p p o r t e r o f t h e m a n y w o n d e r f u l l o c a l t h e a t e r c o m p a n i e s a n d p r o d u ct i o n s h e r e i n t h e V a l l e y I n c o m m u n i t y w o r k , M a r k s e r v e d o n t h e B u c k e y e C e m e t e r y C o m m i t t e e a n d a s p r e s i d e n t o f t h e F i f t h A v e n u e M e r c h a n t s A s s o c i a t i o n . H e l o v e d l i f e a n d c h e r i s h e d h i s f a m i l y a n

Litchfield Park Youth Council founder Brooke Zanon is hosting a meet and greet for potential members at 4 p.m. Tuesday, December 4, at city hall. (Photo courtesy Brooke Zanon)

Mark Allen Holly

OBITUARIES

Sibley Walker

i b l e y W a l k e r p a s s e d a w a y o n

1 6 , 2 0 1 8 S h e w a s b o r n o n

1 9 , 1 9 5 8 i n L a u r e l , M i s s i s s i p p i

W i l l i a m a n d B i l l i e J e a n S i b l e y a u g h t f o r o v e r 3 0 y e a r s , 2 2 o f

w e L i t c h f i e l d S c h o o l D i s t r i c t S h e

b c o n o m i c s i n T e x a s a t R e d r o c k s

H ld Caren

d e n t A d v i s o r , A s s i s t a n t P r i n c i p a l , a n d P r i n c i p a l b e f o r e fin ally becoming A ss is tan t S u per in ten d en t A fter d ed icat ed s e r v ice to th e Li tch f iel d S ch

t h i s p a s t J u n e

C a r e n i s s u r v i v e d b y d a u g h t e r L a u r e n W a l k e r , s i s t e r

Charlene Sibley Hall, two nieces Jessica Kahler & Katie Lyon and a great nephew Brady Kahler She is also survived by numerous friends and countless children whose lives she touched over the past 30 years

F

R

G l e n d a l e .

Funeral services will be on Sunday, December 2, 2018

a t 1 0 A M a t t h e f u n e r a l h o m e B u r i a l w i l l f o l l o w i n

R e s t h a v e n P a r k Ce m e t e r y Memorial contributions may be made to the Caren Sibley Walker Musical Scholarship.

Derek Jon "Deke" Dullere

n Arizona, where he was happiest H

Max, and his close friends Jim and Jody Kocher were by his side Deke was born in Fort Atkinson, WI on February 14th, 1948 to Joan and Arnie Dullere. He graduated from Fort Atkinson High School in 1966. Deke worked at Citizens

B

a t e D o u b l e T h r e e T r a n s p o r t a t i o n .

F o r D e k e , g o l f w a s l i f e H e l o v e d t h e g a m e a n d t h e

m a n y p e o p l e h e m e t w h i l e t r a v e l i n g t o a n d p l a y i n g courses all over the States He was a member of the Wigw am Golf Co urs e (Go o d year) and Lak e Rip ley Cou n try C l u b ( C a m b r i d g e ) D e k e s e r v e d o n t h e b o a r d a t L a k e Ripley Country Club for more than 30 years and was involved in many of the improvements that have made the course what it is today

Deke was truly one of a kind He lived life his way and to the fullest, enjoying every moment along the way He believed he had a great life -in his words "it was quite the ride"

D e k e i s s u r v i v e d b y h i s w i f e A m y ( W a r n e ) D u l l e r e ;

d a u g h t e r T r acy ( S h an e ) H et h ; S t e p s o n Ca me r o n W a r n e; S t ep d a u g h t er s M ay ti e a n d E m il y W a r n e ; g r an d s o n M ax

H e t h ; h i s c o u s i n s , w h o w e r e l i k e a s i s t e r a n d b r o t h e r t o h i m , B a r b ( B e r n i e ) N e v o r a l a n d T o m ( K a t h i e ) F r i e d e l . He was preceded in death by his parent and cousin John Friedel.

A C e l e b r a t i o n o f L i f e w i t h b e h e l d a t L a k e R i p l e y

C o u n t r y C l u b i n C a m b r i d g e , W I o n J u n e 2 2 , 2 0 1 9 a t

5 p m

Patrick Ranse Neely

s

ents were Mary Schultz and David Neely. H e mo v ed to Wh ittier , CA to liv e w ith his dad, after the death of his mother He

Orange Sister City Association in CA He is survived b

G

Kevin died in infancy He has one grandson, Joshua an d one great grand daughter Kayla

H

co r p o r ate of f ice f

Men's Association He was also an active member of th e M o d e l R a i l r o a d C l u b a n d e n j o y e d c o n s t r u c t i o n p r o j e c ts

a n d w o r k i n g w i t h t h e o t h e r m e m b e r s "Celebration of Life" service will be held at:

JuanitaHernandez

JuanitaHernandez,age68,of Avondale,diedOctober28,2018in Goodyea.ShewasbornJuly23, 1950inRefugio,TXtoSantosand MariaMoya. Juanitaissurvivedbyher daughters,Sally,Josie,Veronica, MaryHelen,andBettyHernandez; sons,Jesse,Edward,Ruben,Mario andOscarHernandez;sisters,Betty Garza,Frances,Delia,andTina Moya;brothers,Richard,Daniel,Edward,andDavid Moya;26grandchildren;and23great-grandchildren. Shewasprecededindeathbyherparents,Mariaand SantosMoya.

ServiceswereheldNovember3,2018atThompson FuneralChapel,Goodyear.Condolencesforthefamily maybeleftatwww.ThompsonFuneralChapel.com.

PUBLIC

INVITATION TO BID

Bids: Wednesday, December 19, 2018 Time to be determined

Project: Highlands Park Trailhead CFD Landscape

minimum CR-21 Landscaping and Irrigation Systems, to submit sealed

and specifications (the “Work”) The Successful Contractor shall be responsible for all coordination associated with the Work Copies of the p lan s , s p ecif icatio n s , b id d o cu men ts an d d etailed in f o r matio n f o r th is project will be available on Monday, November 26 Contact Terri Kading tkading@dmbinc com to make arrangements to receive the bid documents Please reference “Highlands Park Trailhead CFD LandscapeR e q u

ORY pre-bid meeting will be held in the DMB Associates Offices located at 7600 E Doubletree Ranch Road, Suite 300 – Monday, December 3, 2018 at 9:00 am All interested parties are invited to attend It is recommended that interested parties RSVP prior to the meeting. Sealed bids will be received at the City of Buckeye, City Clerk’s Office, located at 530 E Monroe, Buckeye, AZ 85326, on Wednesday December 19, 2018, time will be listed in the bid documents Bids submitted after

Unless all bids are rejected, the Contract will be awarded within twenty

A C e l e b r a t i o n o f L i f e w i l l a l s o b e h e l d i n L i t c h f i e l d

P a r k a f t e r t h e N e w Y e a r F u r t h e r D e t a i l s t o b e a n -

n o u n c e d Cards may be mailed to Amy at N4259 Sleepy Hollow Road, Cambridge, WI 53523

Our 24 hour online service is easy to use and will walk you through the steps of placing a paid obituary in the West Valley View or a free death notice. Visit: obituaries.WestValleyView.com

Classifieds

Place “To Find” Everything You Need

GARAGE SALES/ BAZAARS

HOMES FOR SALE

CAREGIVERS

AIRES is looking for caring, capable and compassionate people! Our mission is to help people live happy, healthy & fulfilling lives. Hiring Caregivers for In Home Care dept (HCBS) & Group Homes in the West Valley **No Exp necessary! Paid training. Must be 21+yrs w/ good driving record & reliable transportation. Apply at www.aires.org or visit us at 2140 W. Greenway Rd, Ste 140, Phoenix.

HUGE 2-FAMILY GARAGE SALE

Collector Items, Dolls, Bears, Bicycles, Household Items, Clothes, Toys, Books, Kitchen Items & Other Fri, Nov 30 & Sat, Dec 1 8am -3pm 10129 W Mariposa St (101st Ave & Mariposa)

HOUSE in Buckeye For rent, option to buy, owner lot, separate shop very large lot.

$795/month please call 602-488-1349

PUBLISHER's Notice: All real estate

HANDYMAN

e l l i n g s a dvertised are available on an equal opportunity basis

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

OFFICE/Retail/Premium/ Affordable suites available. 722' - 2000'. Dysart/ Van Buren/ Litchfield. 602-694-3158

HOMES

Auction Sale) And All Of The Tack

Fan, Art Supplies,

free estimates, 623-707-6072 *Not A Licensed Contractor

HANDYMAN -37 years experience Drywall, framing, plumbing, painting, electrical, roofing and more Stan, 602434-6057

PERSONAL SERVICES

U Create Art Center LLC

500 N Bullard Ave Ste# 28, Goodyear, AZ 85338 623-203-3621 Hour of Operation Tues-Fri Noon - 9:00 pm Sat 9:00 am - 9:00

LAND FOR SALE

10 Acres Power, water, natural gas available. $79,000 556th Ave, Tonopah AZ. Owner will carry for 3 years at low 7% 602-618-1159

and specifications (the “Work”) The Successful Contractor shall be responsible for all coordination associated with the Work Copies of the p lan s , s p ecif icatio n

b id d o cu men ts an d d etailed in f

matio n

th is project will be available on Monday, December 3 Contact Terri Kading tkading@dmbinc com to make arrangements to receive the bid documents Please reference “Highlands Mountain Trail CFD Landscape

ORY pre-bid meeting will be held in the DMB Associates Offices located at 7600 E Doubletree Ranch Road, Suite 300 – Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at 1:00 pm All interested parties are invited to attend It is recommended that interested parties RSVP prior to the meeting Sealed bids will be received at the City of Buckeye, City Clerk’s Office, located at 530 E Monroe, Buckeye, AZ 85326, on Wednesday January 9, 2

Unless all bids are rejected, the Contract will be awarded within twenty o

bidder that submits a complete and accurate bid A complete and accur-

n t s

Every bid made by a Contractor pursuant to this Notice shall be accompanied by a surety bond for ten percent (10%) of the bid amount, listi n g D M B W h i t e T a n k , L

Contractor will enter into a contract to perform the Work, or as liquidated damages in the event the Contractor refuses or fails to enter into the Contract with DMB White Tank, LLC upon award Cashiers checks w

Performance bonds for the Work The cost for providing Payment and Performance bonds shall be included in the bid submittal A Payment and Performance bond will be required in the amount of

shall be required to submit, with their bid proposal, a completed Certi-

DMB White Tank, LLC, the City of Buckeye and the Verrado District 1 Community Facilities District from any employer’s liability and from any and all liens for materials or labor in connection with this Work as s p e c i f

bond, certificate of insurance and any other items as required in the bid d o c u m e n

be subjec

withhold the award for any reason DMB White Tank, LLC determines necessary and appropriate Award of the successful bid

ested parties shall refer to the bid package and addendums for further information, or contact Terri Kading at tkading@dmbinc com – reference Highlands Mountain Trail CFD Landscape No engineer’s estimate will be distributed