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After a hike, you soon can bounce around here

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS Urban Air Adventure Park will offer bounce house on steroids

Pima Canyon Trail Head improvement project is nearing completion

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

BY JIM WALSH AFN Staff Writer

ome early January, Ahwatukee will become home to the only place in the Valley where kids – and adults, for that matter – can literally bounce off the walls. Occupying 24,000 square feet of the old Sports Authority building on the northeast corner of 48th Street and Ray Road, Urban Air Adventure Park promises a full-service family entertainment center where people of all ages can dodge, dip, duck and dive off Olympic-size trampolines and bouncehouse-like walls and even swing in harnesses from the ceiling. “The reason parents like to bring their kids is because of the physical activity they get,” said Dale Fedewa, who owns an Urban Air franchise in San Antonio already and is opening the Ahwatukee operation – the first of several he is planning for the Valley. Making its Arizona debut, Urban Air will occupy part of a massive building that will be shared by Mountainside Fitness, the gym franchise that started in Ahwatukee but eventually left in the early 2000s as its locations spread across the Valley. What Urban Air won’t be is a trampoline place. It’s more like a bounce house on steroids with some safer versions of parts of a boot camp obstacle course. “The trampoline places are 0.5 version. In San Antonio, we have the 1.0 version, and Ahwatukee will be the 1.5 version,” Fedewa said. “We’ll have climbing walls, Olympic-style trampolines you can do tricks on.

outh Mountain Park manager Dan Gronseth remembers when a dirt road with a few turnouts at the end was the extent of Pima Canyon Trail Head in the 1980s. Visitors would get out of their cars and trucks to check out the Marcos de Niza Rock – whose inscription refers to a possible visit by the Spanish explorer and priest in 1539 but later was called by an Arizona State University professor an example of fraudulent history. Those quiet, peaceful days came to an end quickly because of growth in nearby parts of Ahwatukee and the increasing popularity of hiking, trail running, mountain biking and climbing. Gradually, the easy access to Ahwatukee and several popular trails turned Pima Canyon into South Mountain Park’s busiest trailhead, overwhelming the aging facilities and making parking a challenge during the popular winter hiking season. Now, Pima Canyon is on the brink of a new era, with construction crews working six days a week on a series of improvements that replace stinky pit toilets with flush toilets, a reconfigured parking lot designed to improve functionality and new ramadas that will give the trailhead a focal point. The improvements have come at a cost beyond the $2 million in sales tax revenues approved by voters for Phoenix Mountain preserve improvement projects. Residents such as David Drennon, who

C AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLSS NEWS . 20

QUEENS MOVING ON

. 41

END OF THE ROAD

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See

LIGHTS on page 16

(Urban Air Adventure Park/Special to AFN)

ABOVE: Urban Air Adventure Park in San Antonio, above, has many of the same features of its Ahwatukee counterpart. BELOW: the foundation is in for a ramada at Pima Canyon Trail Head.

See

MOUNTAIN on page 10

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

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(Special to AFN)

Ahwatukee author Judy Lokits got more than she bargained for when she signed with a publisher allegedly gone crooked.

Faith helped Ahwatukee author get through publishing nightmare Melanie Beauchamp

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Martha Neese

- Serving Ahwatukee Since 1994 -

riting a book is difficult enough, but when the work of many months ends up in the hands of a publisher allegedly gone crooked, the agony can be almost unbearable. Ahwatukee author Judy Lokits learned that painful lesson while publishing her book “Deep Calls Unto Deep in the Song of Solomon.” An Ahwatukee resident since 2012, Lokits already had authored one other book, “Bouquets from My Beloved.” Lokits – a Bible study teacher, motivational speaker, painter and painting teacher – focused on King Solomon’s “Song of Songs,” which she believes “reveals the mystery of the bridal love (spiritual) of Christ for His bride which will culminate in the Wedding Supper of the Lamb spoken of in the book of Revelation... the first event to occur after the second coming of Christ and the catching up of all Christian believers to Heaven.” She wanted to show readers that God’s “secure and passionate love is what changes us into givers of love, doers of mighty deeds and completely fulfilled women and men who serve Him with great passion. It is my passion.” But her passion turned to frustration shortly after she had contracted with Tate Publishing, a longtime Christian book publishing house in Oklahoma that charged authors to defray printing and marketing See

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costs. In August, Richard Tate, the firm’s founder, and his son Ryan Tate, its CEO, were arrested on eight felony charges and one misdemeanor charge filed by Oklahoma’s attorney general accusing them of embezzlement, extortion and racketeering. In a case still pending in the courts, authorities charged they took authors’ money and pocketed it. The charges came as no surprise to Lokits, who spent more than six months trapped in a series of frustrating dealings with Tate. “This process began in the summer of 2015, and by the spring of 2016, I began to be very frustrated,” she said. “Each process involving a different department seemed to be taking longer and longer. Also, it was apparent that the editing services were outsourced to Indonesia. “As I talked to them about complicated formatting, proper theological grammar, capitalization and other details of an interesting display of my Bible study, I was concerned that the language barrier and even English grammar requirements were lacking. I was re-editing and submitting corrections over and over.” She complained to the publishing house and “was assured that all would be all right and the book would soon be finished and released.” Then she was told the book would be out by October 2016. “This was very important to me since I had already scheduled the Bible study for the spring of 2017 at my church, and was booked as a speaker at the February Women’s Conference there,” she said. “I needed those books.” The books never arrived, and by then, Lokits learned the Tates were facing multiple lawsuits for thousands of dollars that were filed by other authors and creditors. “When they didn’t come, emails and calls only admitted to a delay due to their leased printer problems with Xerox, which would soon be resolved,” Lokits recalled. “The truth of this mess and my

losses began to register even while Tate continued to offer ‘great deals’ on books and said nothing on their website.” Tate pondered filing her own suit but worried about throwing good money after bad. She already had spent more than $2,300 with Tate. Worse, she only had one digital copy of the final book and “these files are still not suitable for the best print jobs.” Tate quit answering her emails for “print-ready” files, and in January, it announced it was discarding the whole notion of books for some vague online publishing approach. Lockits believes God led her to a happy ending. Athena Holtz, owner of Redemption Press, contacted her and “her own personal story involving many years of experience in the publishing business, as well as her walk of faith through devastating losses, began to interest me.” Eventually they struck a deal and now Redemption Press has published Lokits’ book. “I now have a new cover for the latest book using one of my watercolor paintings and colored illustrations from a set of watercolors that are part of the book, ‘Deep Calls Unto Deep in the Song of Solomon,’” said Lokits. Both books are available on her website, judylokits.com, as well as redemptionpress.com, Amazon and other retail sites. Lokits’ faith in the Tates may have been shredded, but her experience with them has only deepened her faith. She is working on a third book. “Of course, as an author, I always have another book on my mind,” she said. “There’s so much to say about God’s passionate and powerful love for us and how it changes us when we begin to ‘seek Him.’” “The real work begins for me right now and that is marketing the book and getting it to church Bible study groups and individuals across the nation and hopefully even farther abroad.” At the same time, she said, “I hope to warn other new writers as well as encourage them that there are honest publishers who care.”

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Pickleball lights plan puts two HOAs at loggerheads BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

ickleball has put two Ahwatukee homeowners associations on a collision course over a plan for lighted courts. Some residents of the 56-unit RD1 HOA are upset that the Ahwatukee Recreation Center – which itself is a homeowners association – plans to install lights on its four pickleball courts. The courts are between the center and about a dozen homes that look onto a grassy open knoll and a small lake. It’s bad enough, said RD1 homeowner René Couché and his neighbors, that they have to put up during the daylight hours with the sound of whiffle balls getting whacked by paddles. “Now we’re going to lose the few hours of peace we have remaining,” he said. Robert Bartz, president of the ARC HOA board, said some of the approximate 175 members who belong to a pickleball club work in the daytime, so the evening is the only chance they have to play. But Couché countered, “Some of the

people whose peace and quiet is going to be ruined in the evening work, too.” Bartz issued a statement that said: “With regard to pickleball court lighting, the ARC board is confident in supporting this popular and vibrant senior adult sport that we can implement lighting of our courts using downward-directed LED lights with side shields on the fixtures so there will be very little, if any, spillover into the neighborhood. “Also, in keeping with our good neighbor policy, we have retained the services of a sound abatement consulting firm who will make noise level readings in the neighborhood and develop a plan using various sound barrier and absorptive technologies to bring the neighborhood sound impact down to acceptable levels.” Bartz told AFN, “We’re very concerned about the neighbors as well. We’ve gone over to their houses and listened. We have visited pickeball court installations all over the Valley to try and study and do the best job we can to mitigate the sound and the lighting.” But the irate neighbors, including

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Joyce and Herbert Chapnek as well as Couché, maintain the lighted courts create “noise and light pollution” that ultimately will reduce the value of their homes.” They said most of the houses around the lake have their master bedrooms and living rooms closest to the courts, increasing the disturbance. They also noted that Pecos Park has lighted pickleball courts. The city is planning to build 18 more courts there. The ARC HOA has 1,628 homes – including those in RD1 as well as several other HOAs that are all under the umbrella of the Ahwatukee Board of Management. Those homeowners pay $600 in annual dues. Couché and the angry homeowners have appealed to city Councilman Sal DiCiccio’s office for help, noting that the ARC would need a permit to install the lights because they would constitute a major change in the neighborhood’s environment. They contend that with lights, the pickleball courts would be open for play 14 hours a day and “will destroy the remaining peace and quiet left in our neighborhood,” Couché said. A spokesman for DiCiccio said, “Our office has been in contact with René Couché on this matter, but as far as we are aware, the ARC has not filed for

any permits. If they did file, neighbors would have the opportunity to voice their opposition at a hearing.” But Bartz said the ARC HOA is determined to go ahead with its plan, although it has no timetable for installing them because the board is still investing light and noise suppression systems. “We’re going to move ahead,” he said, adding that the board also has yet to adopt a policy for how long the lights would stay on every evening. “The pickleball club is very active and is one of the most enthusiastic clubs we have,” he said. Couché said the courts were moved to their side of the ARC building after a pickleball club member complained that their location on the other side created a disturbance. “They never did any noise reduction after they got the courts installed and now from sunup to sundown we all have to listen to the constant annoying ‘tink tink tink’ of the pickleball players and their loud voices,” he said. “And when they have a tournament, their loudspeaker systems blast us out of our houses.” RD1 homeowners were scheduled to meet tonight, Nov. 29, to further discuss the issue and decide whether they can take any further action to stop the light installation.

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Suns update basketball courts at Ahwatukee YMCA, other venues JIM WALSH AFN Staff Writer

hildren in Ahwatukee and throughout the East Valley will play on newly renovated basketball courts as part of a Phoenix Suns Charities program to commemorate the team’s 50th anniversary. A newly renovated basketball court opened last week at the Ahwatukee Family YMCA. Courts at the Tempe YMCA and the Chandler/Gilbert YMCA have also been refurbished. The “50 years, 50 courts’’ program is funded by a $1 million grant from Suns Charities, echoing the Arizona Diamondbacks’ efforts to update baseball fields. The courts throughout Arizona are scheduled for refurbishing. The improvements range from new surfaces to replacement of some courts in bad shape. Among the other courts selected for refurbishing are numerous Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the East Valley – including in Chandler, Gilbert, Guadalupe and the Grant Woods branch in Mesa, according to Suns Charities. Garrett Brolsma, district executive director at the YMCA branches in Tempe

and Chandler/Gilbert, said his courts were renovated two weeks ago and they make a big difference. “It makes them feel like they are in an elevated program,’’ he said. “The reaction has been great from all Y members. It’s hard not to feel good about it.’’ When the kids play on such a nice court, it makes them feel special, he said. “It makes them feel like a Suns basketball player.’’ The Y uses the courts for youth basketball and volleyball programs, while adults can use them for pickup games. “Basketball is the sport we love and we know how important it is for kids to stay active,’’ said Sarah Krahenbuhl, executive director of Phoenix Suns Charities. “We looked at the need and we are really interested in the kids in the community playing basketball.’’ She said there will be a court refurbished in all East Valley cities with an emphasis on facilities that serve children. “We are trying to give back to our fan base,’’ Krahenbuhl said. Each facility will receive a framed Phoenix Suns jersey, and there will be a Suns logo either on the court, a backboard or a nearby wall to note the contribution.

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Gina Vanderploeg, left, and Michelle Wachter were all smiles when they and about 100 other volunteers from the Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club, Desert Foothills United Methodist Church in Ahwatukee and the First United Methodist Church of Mesa hosted more than 330 kids from group foster homes to a Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 20. To help fund the event, people can send a donation to the Ahwatukee Kiwanis, PO Box 50596, Phoenix, AZ 85076. Specify Thanksgiving or foster youth on the check. To learn how to help with the Kiwanis Club’s Christmas gift distribution for kids in group foster homes, contact info@ahwatukeekiwanis.org or 602-402-6267.

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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TechShop Chandler, closed unexpectedly on Nov. 15 in the wake of a bankruptcy announcement by its parent company, may get new life if a Kansas businessman has his way.

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TechShop Chandler rescue in the works BY WAYNE SCHUTSKY AFN Staff Writer

echShop Chandler – the maker space for small business owners, hobbyists and students throughout the East Valley – may have a new lease on life after unexpectedly closing on Nov. 15 in the wake of a bankruptcy announcement by its parent company. Dan Rasure, a Kansas resident with a background in manufacturing, is in talks with the parent company to purchase the entire entity, which includes 10 TechShop locations across the country. “I have met with the TechShop board several times and have an agreement in principal, but there are outstanding issues with landlords and agreements such as with ASU, and we will need to have some level of understanding and resolution before we can proceed,” Rasure said. If the deal goes through, Rasure plans to continue operating the facilities under the TechShop name for the time being. He also plans to continue operating a for-profit business model, something current TechShop CEO Dan Woods said was unsustainable in his official statement on the company’s bankruptcy. “It is my personal opinion that the model of TechShop, while it had some flaws, was actually good,” Rasure said. “The issues faced were not on local side but elsewhere; the actual local shops did fairly well.” TechShop Chandler is located within the ASU Chandler Innovation Center in a building owned by the city of Chandler

and leased to ASU. Because of this existing relationship, Rasure is hesitant to move forward with the purchase without at least tacit support from ASU and the city. “This (Chandler) facility is critical to the decision to buy TechShop or not,” Rasure said. “It is one of the better locations they had. It is a larger, newer facility with room to expand.” Due to the surprise nature of the bankruptcy announcement – ASU found out about it only a half an hour before the closure – Rasure did not speak with university officials about his plans until a scheduled call on Nov. 21. Little was resolved in the call, though. ASU made an attorney available to speak to Rasure but no university officials were on the call, he said. Rasure flew into the Valley on Nov. 21 for a meeting between ASU, Chandler and TechShop members. Ji Mi Choi, ASU associate vice president for the Office of Knowledge Enterprise Development, led the meeting along with Chandler Economic Development Director Micah Miranda. Choi expressed sympathy for those displaced by the TechShop closure at the meeting and said that the university is still examining every possible outcome to the situation, though it is still too early to make any promises about the space’s future. That meeting featured numerous heartfelt testimonies from users about its importance – including from Hacienda Healthcare’s Tom Burick, who used the See

TECH SHOP on page 17

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Superb South Mountain views from front circular drive with portico. Custom single level with desirable split floor plan on ½ acre lot. 5 br 4.5 ba with 4,763 sq. ft. Gourmet kitchen features newer cabinetry, granite countertops, Sub Zero refrigerator and breakfast bar. Dramatic entry with 2011 custom iron door. Travertine flooring and Plantation shutters. 2015 updates to spacious play pool and decking. Two Trane A/C units in 2007.

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Hidden Canyon

Mountain Park Ranch

Awesome South Mountain views from desirable single level split plan. 4 br, 3 ba with 2,945 sq. ft. Updated kitchen features granite countertops with stone backsplash, island, breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances and 42" maple cabinetry with pullouts. Resort-style backyard with covered patio, flagstone, Pebble Tec pool with waterfall, spa, fireplace, fire pit and lush tropical landscaping.

Enjoy mountain preserve view from front balcony deck. 3 br, 2.5 ba with 1,611 sq. ft. Open kitchen features granite tile countertops. 17” travertine flooring plus hardwood in great room. Remodeled master suite boasts marble flooring in bath with spacious stone walk-in shower. Gorgeous mature landscaping, extended covered patio and fountain in backyard.

Listed for $687,500

! LD O S

Listed for $309,000

O EFR

K LA

Cabrillo Canyon

Harbor Island

Gorgeous remodel on oversized corner lot. 5 br, 3 ba with 3,225 sq. ft. Stone and marble flooring plus Plantation shutters throughout. Updated kitchen features granite countertops and refinished cabinetry. Custom curved staircase. All bathrooms have been updated. Spacious backyard boasts lush landscaping, fenced pool with spa and large covered patio with resurfaced balcony deck.

Enjoy the serenity of waterfront living in Ahwatukee from this gorgeous home. 5 br, 3 ba with 3,650 sq. ft. Spacious eat-in kitchen features refinished white cabinetry with custom rubbed bronze hardware, island and Sub-Zero refrigerator. Upstairs master suite boasts French doors to view balcony, updated bathroom plus large walk-in closet. Resort-style backyard with pool, BBQ, lush landscaping, custom dock fence and boat that conveys.

Listed for $509,500

Listed for $574,500

www.MendozaTeam.com Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Lisa Miguel

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Ahwatukee Custom Estates Listed for

$1,150,000

Nearly 2 acre preserve property situated in a cul de sac with majestic mountain views! 5,553 sf, 6 bedrooms plus office, 5.5 bathrooms; separate guest quarters. The gourmet kitchen boasts rich dark wood cabinetry with crown molding, granite counter tops, large center island with prep sink, breakfast bar, enormous walk-in pantry, Viking Professional range with 6 burners plus griddle, double ovens, two dishwashers, Sub Zero refrigerator and freezer and two warming drawers. Open kitchen family room concept; large family room with 14 ft ceilings, crown molding, impressive fireplace with Cantera stone hearth and mantel, and built-in entertainment center. The backyard is an entertainer’s dream with built-in BBQ, fireplace with stone surrounds, extensive covered patio area and sparkling pebble tec pool and spa. The master suite is a retreat you won’t want to leave with cozy gas fireplace, built-in bar with refrigerator with ice maker and large balcony with wrought iron railing and panoramic views of South Mountain Preserve. Master bathroom has steam shower with bench and dual showerheads, Jacuzzi tub, double sinks with marble vanity tops. The attention to detail will exceed your expectations.

COMING SOON!

Old Stone Ranch Listed for

$389,900

Impressively upgraded and impeccably maintained single level home. Open, great room floor plan! 2096 sf, 4 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms. Kitchen remodeled in 2015 with granite slab counter tops and elegant back splash. Large center island, stainless steel appliances, pantry and gas cooking! Bathrooms remodeled in 2015 with granite counter tops and tile surrounds in the showers. Large walk-in shower in master bathroom. Upgraded lights, fixtures and hardware throughout. Extended covered back patio, built-in BBQ and sparkling pebble tec pool; no neighbors behind! 2017 AC compressor. 2017 variable speed pool pump. 2016 water heater. Built-in surround sound speakers in family room and on back patio. Private courtyard in front.

Kerby Estates Listed for

$459,000

Highly sought-after single level, 3,382 sf, 4 bedroom PLUS office, 2.5 bathroom, split master floor plan on NEARLY a ¼ ACRE LOT! Sparkling pebble tec pool with water feature, Baha bench, new kool decking including decorative stamped kool deck coping. New artificial turf and new landscaping! Built-in BBQ. Open kitchen-family room concept. Kitchen boasts maple cabinetry with granite slab counter tops, large island, stainless steel appliances; 2017 oven/ range, and walk-in pantry with custom door. Spacious family room with gas fireplace. Travertine tile and wood-look porcelain tile throughout with carpet in only one secondary bedroom. Both air conditioners had compressors replaced; one in 2017 and one in 2015. Wood blinds throughout. Enormous master suite with separate exit to backyard. Home backs to a greenbelt/common area with gate/path to the canal and close proximity to City of Chandler Crossbow Park. Dog run on side yard. Three-car garage and 5 car slab parking; 4 car slab parking in front and an extra slab for parking,behind the RV gate.

Foothills Listed for

$525,000

Rare-find 1/3rd acre lot with mountain views! 3,111 sf, 4 bedrooms plus huge bonus room and 2.5 bathrooms. Cul de sac location, sparkling fenced pool, above ground spa, huge sport court, gazebo, built-in BBQ and large grass area. Perfect for families and entertaining! 2015 roof! 2017 interior/exterior paint. 2015 variable speed pool pump. 2016 water heater. HVAC compressors replaced 2012 and 2014. Open kitchen-family room floor plan. Kitchen boasts Corian counter tops, island, eat-in kitchen nook, and cabinet pantry. Open kitchen-family room floor plan. Master suite is downstairs. Master bathroom completely remodeled in 2016; walk-in shower with travertine tile surrounds and custom glass door enclosure, Roman tub with travertine tile surrounds. New cabinetry, quartz vanity top, upgraded faucets and trendy hardware. Upstairs secondary bathroom has skylight, double sinks and was remodeled in 2013 with tile flooring and tile surrounds in shower/tub. RV gate. Extended length and over height garage.

Mirada Canyon Listed for

$620,000

3,886 sf, 4 bedroom plus bonus room and 3.5 bathrooms. Bonus room is enormous with a walk-in closet and its own bathroom and could easily be used as a fifth bedroom! ¼ acre preserve lot with majestic mountain views! Kitchen has custom, pecan-finish cabinetry with pull-out shelving, granite slab counter tops, island, pantry, stainless steel appliances (2015 refrigerator,) breakfast bar, and eat-in dining nook. Enormous family room with soaring ceilings, hardwood flooring (2015) & cozy gas fireplace. Master suite is downstairs. Master bathroom has dual sinks, granite slab vanity top, upgraded pecan-finish cabinetry, travertine surrounds in the shower and at Roman tub. Huge walk-in master closet with Classy Closet shelving. Secondary bedrooms are oversized; one with large walk-in closet. Jack & Jill bathroom between secondary bedrooms. Bonus room has French door entry, custom glass door exit to balcony, and breathtaking mountain views! Sparkling pebble tec pool with water feature and spectrum color lighting. Built-in BBQ and artificial turf in back. 2015 ROOF!

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra!

(KImberly Carrillo/AFN Photographer)

Once completed next month, the improvement work at Pima Canyon Trail Head will have modern bathrooms and a large ramada for the thousands of hikers who visit every year.

MOUNTAIN

from page 1

bought their homes near the park for the serenity and the view, have been appalled as they watched crews carve about a 25-foot-wide path through the desert to dig a trench needed for sewer pipes leading to the new toilets. City officials have promised to restore the natural surroundings and have tried to respect the unique habitat as best as possible, said Mike Francis, park supervisor for Phoenix Parks. They took precautions to protect a large saguaro that stands as a sentinel near the park’s boundary and by creating spaces for coyotes and rabbits to pass through breaks in a temporary construction fence. “I think the people, when they use these trails, will appreciate it when it’s done,” project manager Aaron Jensen said. “I think the restrooms will be 1,000 times better.’ Jensen said that Phoenix Parks will do everything possible to restore the natural appearance of the path, which was necessary for construction equipment required for the sewer line project. He said his department has extensive experience restoring such areas from other projects. “You would never know anything was done there. It will take a little time,” he said. Drennon said the entire project has been devastating to him and he still wishes the city would have run the sewer line past the nearby Arizona Grand Golf Course instead. “I will always feel that way. I will be reminded of it everything I go hiking. There will be manhole covers in the mid-

dle of the desert,’’ Drennon said. Drennon praised the city, however, for protecting the saguaro and the wildlife and for installing fencing and signs to keep trespassers from cutting through yard on the way to the closed trailhead. It seemed to help, he said, when the city put up a sign suggesting other access points, such as Beverly Canyon. “They have been responsive to the residents. They fixed the fence and secured the area,” Drennon said. “At this point, I am anxious to see what it will look like when it’s done.” He said the re-vegetation project would go a long way toward satisfying neighbors, who don’t want to see a hard-scrabble road running through the desert. “There’s been a lot torn out for the equipment. I hope its true re-vegetation’’ and not just hard ground covered with seeds, he said. Francis said Drennon’s plan would have required a much longer sewer line and would have exhausted his entire budget for the project. He said there was no question that the restrooms and ramadas were antiquated and needed replacement. “It’s improving what was falling apart,’’ Francis said. “I think our entire trail system has experienced the shock of unanticipated use.’’ To address that problem, crews have restored 26 miles of “spider’’ trails created by users taking short cuts and damaging the desert. Francis said closing Pima Canyon for the construction reduced the number of visitors, making it easier to make progress on the restoration work on the unrecognized trails between Pima Canyon and See

MOUNTAIN on page 12

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Cynthia Worley DESIGNATED BROKER

480.330.7035

cynthia@stellarealtyAZ.com | www.stellarealtyAZ.com

VOTED BEST HOME ON TOUR

Gated Canyon Verde Single Level • Split • Hillside Forte Custom • 5 Bedrooms 3.5 Bathrooms 3G • 3,941 sf

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Ahwatukee Foothills Club West Single Level • Split • Pool 4 Bedrooms • 2.5 Bathrooms 3G • 2,849 sf

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Ahwatukee Custom Estates Exceptional Quality Custom 6 Bedrooms • 5.5 Bathrooms 3G • 5,127 sf • +1/2 Acre Lot

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(Kimberly Carrillo /AFN Staff Photographer)

Crews are digging a sewer line at the Pima Canyon Trail Head to accommodate modern restrooms.

MOUNTAIN

from page 10

Beverly Canyon, on the north side of the mountain. “I think the thought is to take on the trail work at the same time as the trailhead work,’’ Francis said, with the spider trails a target because they contribute to confusion and visitors getting lost. The trail work is part of the $23 million South Mountain Park Trail Master Plan, which is expected to take five years or so to complete and will add badly needed improved signage while expanding and completing the system of recognized trails, making it easier to comprehend. While the trailhead work is more specific and concrete, “the trail master plan is more long term,’’ Francis said. Jensen estimated that the new Pima Canyon Trail Head will open in December. He said the project should move faster, now that the sewer line is installed. A contractor has desert trees, such as palo verde and mesquite, sitting in boxes and scheduled to be planted in the parking lot soon. The walls for the new restrooms are taking shape and concrete will be poured soon. A concrete bridge over a wash will be installed near the Desert Cove neighborhood as soon as the sewer line connection is finished. “Tall pots,’’ some low water-use shrubs, will line the trail leading to the neigh-

borhood as part of revegetation efforts. A mixture of seeds will help re-create the native habitat. “They are not going to shade anything but a squirrel,’’ Jensen said. “As they grow up, we will have a tree-lined pathway.’’ Laurel Arndt, an Ahwatukee resident, environmental planner and an avid climber and bicyclist, praised the city for working with neighbors. She said any construction project is bound to upset neighbors and produce growing pains, with Pima Canyon no exception. She said the primary comment she hears from park users is that they wish the timeline for the improvements could be accelerated. The plan was delayed for at least a couple months by objections from residents that forced changes in the initial plan and red tape Phoenix Parks encountered when getting building permits. “We could all nitpick. There’s always second guessing that can go on,’’ Arndt said. “I think the city went about the process quite well. I think the process was honorable to the community.’’ But she said residents were correct in objecting to certain features of the initial plan. Their objections were heard when a proposed parking lot closer to their homes was eliminated and lighting was dimmed. “This is the second largest municipal park in the U.S. and it does need a facelift,’’ Arndt said. “Three years from now, everyone will be thrilled.’’

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holidays

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of Chandler (Urban Air Adventure Park/Special to AFN)

Kids and adults will be able to literally bounce off the walls at the Urban Air Adventure Park once it opens in January in Ahwatukee.

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from page 1

You’ll be able to bounce off the wall. People do crazy things that are fun to watch.” The park will be divided into play areas offering different experiences. Besides huge trampolines, it will offer a “slam-dunk track” that enables flying leaps for basketball baskets; a mammoth jungle-gym setup that dwarfs any backyard or playground set; a ropes course and rock-climbing walls; a “dodge ball heaven” offering a far more physical version of the traditional game; an area where kids 7 and younger can play on smaller trampolines under the parents’ watchful eyes; and the “Sky Rider Coaster,” which allows guests to fly in a harness through the park on a track affixed to the ceiling. Fedewa bought into the franchise because “I saw how cool it is” and said he picked Ahwatukee for his first Arizona operation because he likes its proximity to the freeways and the family-oriented nature of the community. “We have opened our Urban Air across the country in several large cities and have consistently been ranked the No. 1 adventure park. We can’t wait to make Ahwatukee our first Arizona home,” he said. The only “equipment” that patrons will need is specially made, reusable socks that must be purchased at Urban Air for about $2.50. The soles of the socks have a slight grip to make it easier for running up the walls and bouncing off them. For anyone concerned that no shoes are allowed, Fedewa said he’ll be using a specially designed sanitizing system that not only will prevent unpleasant odors but also will keep the place as germ-free as any public facility can be. Fedewa, who lives in north Scottsdale and has largely been a business consultant and an owner of other companies, said he has seen all ages frolic in his San Antonio

park and recalled seeing three generations of a family competing together. “We do a lot of birthday parties and corporate activities,” he said, noting there will be three rooms for private gatherings, a lounge with a glass-walled outlook onto the entire playing field, and food service that can cater to groups as well as individuals. No alcohol will be sold on the premises. “It’s a good environment to be active and to get to know people,” Fedewa said, stating that some nearby military bases in the San Antonio area use Urban Air to meet requirements “that they go off site and do non-military things.” It’s also popular with first responders, particularly police departments and firefighting units whose members want to do fun things but exert themselves physically as well. “We’re a higher-end park,” Fedewa said, adding that companies have used his San Antonio park for team-building events. One even rented the park overnight. Fedewa anticipates hours of operation will be 4-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon-11 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays. Pricing will vary, depending on the amount of time a patron wants to play and what parts of the amusement park they want to use. The San Antonio operation’s admission prices vary widely, from about $14 for an hour on the trampoline only to about $25 for two and a half hours in several different areas to a $50 family pass for one hour of jumping, five bottles of water and a large single-topping pizza. Fedewa said he’ll also have specially priced themed nights for teens, families and others. On the date of the grand opening, which has yet to be set, the first 100 people lined up outside Urban Air will get take part in See

BOUNCE on page 17

NEWS

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

BOUNCE

from page 16

a jump contest with Suns player Derrick Jones Jr., who made it to the finals in the NBA All-Star Game’s Slam Dunk Contest in 2017. Urban Air also plans to hire 50 to 75 people and will hold a job fair in Ahwatukee sometime in December. Life changes, markets fluctuate, and your portfolio might need ananadjustment to you o Life changes, markets fluctuate, your portfolio might need ankeep adjustmen (Urban Air Adventure Park/Special to AFN) Life changes, markets fluctuate, and your and portfolio might need adjustment to keep you on Life changes, markets fluctuate, and your portfolio might need an adjustment to keep you on Information: urbanairtrampolinepark. The long-empty Sports Authority building will track toward achieving your goals. If you’re whether you the right investme track toward achieving your goals. you’re wondering whether you have have the right investments track toward achieving yourIfwondering goals. If you’re wondering whether you have the soon be home to Mountainside in your portfolio, we’d be happy to give you agive professional evaluation. track toward achieving your goals. Ifand you’re wondering whether you have the right investments com or 602-663-9340. Life changes, markets fluctuate, and your portfolio might need an adjustment to keep you on inFitness your portfolio, we’d be happy towe’d give you a professional in your portfolio, be happy to youevaluation. a professional evaluation.

Align goals, investments, and theand th Align goals, investments, Align goals, investments, and the Align goals, investments, and the right advice toperfect make blend right advice tothe make the perfect right advice to make the blend right advice to make theperfect perfect Align goals, investments, and the blend right advice to make the perfect blend

the Urban Air Adventure Park. track toward achieving your goals. you’re whether you have the right investments could be the onlyevaluation. thing you needIf is morewondering cream in your coffee, but your investments are in your portfolio, we’d be happy to give you a Itprofessional in your portfolio, we’d be happy to give you a professional evaluation.

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It couldin be your the onlycoffee, thing second you but need is more cream in your coffee, but your investments are an more important look. worth an important look. It could be the only thing you worth need is cream your investments Callsecond today for a complimentary consultation over coffee. are worth an important second look. worth an important second look. Call today for a Call complimentary consultation over coffee. over coffee. today for a complimentary consultation Call today for a complimentary consultation over coffee.

Life changes, markets fluctuate, and your portfolio might need an adjustment to keep you on Michael Barlow Nicholas Goins Call today for a complimentary consultation coffee. Lifeover changes, markets fluctuate, and your portfolio might an adjustment to keep you on track toward achieving your goals. you’re wondering whether you haveneed the right investments Senior VP - Investments Financial If Advisor 40 Barlow E Rio Salado Ste 525investments 40 E Rio give Salado Ste 525 track achieving your If you’reevaluation. wondering whether you have thePkwy right Michael Nicholas Goins Pkwy in your portfolio, we’dtoward be happy to you agoals. professional Tempe, AZ 85281 Tempe, AZ 85281 SeniorMichael VP - Investments FinancialNicholas Advisor Barlow Michael Barlow Nicholas Goins Goins in your portfolio, we’d be happy to give you a professional evaluation. Direct: (480) 461-5040 Direct: (480) 461-5043 40 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525 40 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525 It could be theFinancial onlyAdvisor thing you need is more cream in your coffee, but your investments are Michael.Barlow@wfadvisors.com Nicholas.Goins@wfadvisors.com Senior VP - Inves Financial Tempe,Senior AZ 85281VP - Investments Tempe, AZ 85281 Advisor could be only thing youPkwy need is more cream in your coffee, but your investments worth an important second look. www.mbarlow.wfadv.com home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/nicholas.goins Direct:40 (480) 461-5040 Direct: (480) 40 E Rio Salado 40 E461-5043 Rio Salado SteMichael 525 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525are 40 It E Rio Salado Pkwythe Ste 525 Barlow Nicholas Goins Michael.Barlow@wfadvisors.com Nicholas.Goins@wfadvisors.com worth an important second look. Tempe, AZ 8528 Tempe, AZ 85281 over coffee. Tempe, AZ 85281 AZ 85281 www.mbarlow.wfadv.com home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/nicholas.goins Call today forTempe, a complimentary consultation Senior VP Investments Financial Advisor Direct: (480) 461 Direct: (480) 461-5043consultation over coffee. Direct: (480) 461-5040 Direct: (480) 461-5043 Call today for a complimentary u u u Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value 40 E RioNOSalado Pkwy Ste 525 40 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525 Michael.Barlow@ Nicholas.Goins@wfadvisors.com Michael.Barlow@wfadvisors.com Nicholas.Goins@wfadvisors.com Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC,85281 a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Tempe, AZ Tempe, AZ 85281 u NOT FDIC Insured u u MAY Lose Value Investment and Insurance Products: home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/nicholas.goins www.mbarlow.wfadv.com www.mbarlow.w home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/nicholas.goins Services, LLC. All rights reserved. NO Bank Guarantee Fargo & Company. © 2016 Wells Fargo Clearing Nicholas (480) 461-5040 Wells FargoGoins Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC,Direct: Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer andMichael non-bankBarlow affiliate of Wells Senior VP - Investments Financial Advisor © 2016 Wells Fargo ClearingGoins Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Fargo & Company. Michael Barlow Nicholas Michael.Barlow@wfadvisors.com 40 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525 Senior VP - Investments 40 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525 Financial Advisor Tempe, AZ 85281 www.mbarlow.wfadv.com Tempe, AZ 85281 40 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525 40 E Rio Salado Pkwy Ste 525 u NOT u NO Investment Insurance FDIC Insuredu MAY Bank Guarantee Lose Value u NO Bank Direct: (480) 461-5040 u MAY Direct: (480) 461-5043u and Investment and Insurance Products: NOTTempe, FDICAZInsured Guarantee Lose Value Tempe, AZ 85281 85281Products: Michael.Barlow@wfadvisors.comDirect: (480) 461-5040 Nicholas.Goins@wfadvisors.comDirect: (480) 461-5043 Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name Wells used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells www.mbarlow.wfadv.com home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/nicholas.goins Michael.Barlow@wfadvisors.com Nicholas.Goins@wfadvisors.com

Direct: (480) 461-5043 Nicholas.Goins@wfadvisors.com home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/nicholas.goins

Investment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value

Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registeredbybroker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells u NOT u NO u MAY Lose Value Insurance FDIC Insured Guarantee Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name usedInvestment Wells Fargoand Clearing Services,Products: LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer andBank non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2016 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Fargo & Company. © 2016 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2016 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved.

0816-03253 0816-03253

(Urban Air Adventure Park/Special to AFN)

People will be able to climb, scale walls, and even swing in harness from the ceiling at the Urban Air Adventure Park opening next month in a strip mall on 48th Street and Ray Road.

TECHSHOP

from page 9

space to run a program for young autistic adults. Burick ran about 80 percent of his program out of TechShop. He emphasized that its importance extended beyond the physical space as numerous employees, instructors and members provided support and instruction to the young adults he works with. “This means a great, great, great deal to us,” Burick said. One of the young men Burick works with, who only would identify himself as Ryan, said he used TechShop to create gifts for his mother during a difficult period in their lives. “TechShop to me is everything,” Ryan said. “We don’t have these tools where we work; this is it.” Rasure said even if he buys TechShop, the space’s future “would go through a new vetting process” because the university “does not trust TechShop as an entity.” The situation is further complicated by

the status of the parent company. Initially, TechShop stated that it was filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and published an email address for a trustee for concerned parties to contact. However, the company has yet to actually file, Choi said at the meeting. This uncertainty further complicates the university’s ability to respond to the closure, and ASU’s counsel currently is in talks with TechShop lawyers. In the meantime, actual TechShop members – including small business owners preparing for the holiday rush – are scrambling to find resources to complete their work. James White, a disabled veteran who builds medieval-style style chairs, has a woodshop at home but is hesitant to use it in case he falls while alone. TechShop provided a safe and welcoming environment for him to work. “It’s not just the facilities and not just the machines; it’s the community,” White said, receiving a standing ovation from the other TechShop users who were at the meeting.

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Gilbert Republican wants schools to keep lunch, recess time BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services

he way Sen. Warren Petersen sees it, elementary school children are being rushed through lunch and recess by schools who are fearful of losing state aid. So, the Gilbert Republican is proposing to give them more time. He has crafted legislation to say that schools can count the time students spend at lunch and at recess toward the minimum required by Arizona law to be considered full-time students for purposes of state aid. State law requires students in grades 1 through 3 to have at least 712 hours of instruction a year to be counted when the Department of Education divides up aid. That’s four hours a day over the normal 180-day school year. For those in grades 4 through 6, the minimum is 890 hours, or 4.5 hours each day. The problem, Petersen said, is that the time a student spends eating lunch, or even in recess, does not count. “It motivates schools to shrink lunch and recess,” Petersen told Capitol Media Services. He prefers a different test to de-

termine a full-time student. “If you’re in school first class and last class, that’s sufficient,” he said. Petersen acknowledged the measure appears to run counter to efforts to ensure that students get more “seat” time in classrooms, in front of teachers. But he said that presumes things like lunch and time away from class are frivolous and unnecessary. “They need the break,” he said. “They need the activity.” And Petersen said it doesn’t do a student any good to have to gobble down lunch in 20 minutes to ensure that there is enough actual classroom time to qualify for state aid. He acknowledged that his legislation, SB 1008, could theoretically lead to abuses. And Petersen said it’s not his intent to encourage schools to have two-hour lunches and four-hour recesses knowing that it won’t trigger a reduction in state funds. But he said it’s wrong to consider education being only what occurs in class and not what occurs elsewhere, including on the playground. “It’s a necessary part of the day,” Petersen said.

(Special to AFN)

There is precedent for what he wants to do. Last year, the Legislature approved a measure which did something similar for high schools. It spells out that any hours a student is scheduled to be in school count toward whether that person is considered a full-time student. That same law also redefines time in

class for “instructional purposes” to include not only core subjects and electives but also lunch, study halls, music instruction “and other classes that advance the academic instruction of pupils.” But that law, approved with near unanimous bipartisan support, does have limits, with athletic practices and extracurricular clubs and activities not counted.

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Ahwatukee streetlights going LED next summer AFN News Staff

hwatukee’s streetlights are going LED next summer. The Phoenix Street Transportation Department and its contractor, Ameresco, has scheduled Ahwatukee’s lights for conversion from Aug. 20 to Sept. 28 as part of a plan that began being implemented this week. “We’ve set big sustainability goals for the city and converting to LED streetlights brings up one step closer to meeting them,” said Mayor Greg Stanton. “Saving tax payer dollars and cutting energy costs in our city makes us a more attractive place to live and do business.” When completed approximately 100,000 existing streetlights in Phoenix’s road system will feature an energy-efficient 2,700-kelvin LED fixture – the city’s new kelvin standard for streetlights. With the savings in energy and reduced maintenance costs associated with LED, the city expects to achieve a total net savings of approximately $22 million through 2030. In addition to the energy and main-

tenance cost savings associated with LED, the city will seek approximately $875,000 in rebates from APS’s lighting technology upgrade program. To allow the city to meet the timeline for the APS rebate program the citywide conversion work is slated to begin in the APS service areas. As part of the initial phase for the LED streetlight conversion project, this past summer close to 1,000 streetlights were converted to LED. The citywide conversion is programmed to be completed fall 2019. A map that depicts work zones and schedules, including the conversion status for each streetlight, is available on the city’s LED program webpage at phoenix.gov/LED. A majority of the work on residential streets will be performed weekdays during daytime hours and a majority of the work on major streets will be performed overnight. Multiple crews will be deployed throughout the city to ensure this project is completed in the most efficient manner. A single fixture replacement will take

an average of 20 to 30 minutes to complete. Work will be performed in a moving operation and may require temporary traffic lane restrictions. While crews are working, the sidewalk and curbside parking spaces located adjacent to the work site will be temporarily restricted. Fixture replacement work will not affect utility power to adjacent properties. As part of this project, existing streetlight poles, bases and underground cabling will remain intact. At an Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Committee meeting earlier in November 2016, city officials said they also are replacing 20,000 street signs citywide at a total cost of $7 million. But they gave no indication how many would be replaced in Ahwatukee or when the program would even start. When some committee members complained about the condition of light poles, noting many were rusting, department special projects administrator Eileen Yazzie said poles are replaced after her staff receives a complaint. She did not say how long it takes to act on a complaint.

“We need to be told when streetlights are out or poles need repainted,” she said. City officials said they began testing LED energy-efficient streetlights in 2007 throughout various locations before adopting them as the new street technology in 2015. Phoenix will join cities across the country, including New York, Los Angeles, Seattle and Boston in retrofitting its streetlights. LEDs can cut energy use and carbon emissions by up to 60 percent and can last years longer than traditional streetlights. They also distribute light more consistently, with fewer dark spots, so streets are illuminated more evenly and less light is misdirected. “Benefits of setting long-term sustainability goals include inspiring innovation that can result in cost savings, attracting businesses that value sustainability to relocate, improving risk premiums and enticing more tourists who choose to vacation in areas that align with their sustainability values,” according to a staff report.

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Live Nativity returns to Lamb of God Lutheran Church BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

or the 13th year, at least 72 volunteers from the 120-member Lamb of God Lutheran Church are giving time and money to present the Ahwatukee community with a special holiday gift – a live Nativity. Their cliff-side setting at 599 E. Chandler Boulevard is being transformed into the Nativity scene. 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, complete with a Holy Family set inside a rustic thatched three-sided manger, richly robed Magi, angels – some tiny, some towering – humble shepherds, live animals and a stately 7-foottall camel named Josephus. For more than a decade, this diorama – with sets done by a professional set designer – has been a heralding of Ahwatukee’s Christmas season with locals invit-

ed to enjoy the free 20-minute guided tours through 300 luminarias that light the pathways of the church’s red-rock perch in the Foothills. The stroller and wheelchair-accessible lighted pathways meander by the various sets with 28 costumed actors, offering views of projected scenes on the 60-foot towering cliffs that act as backdrops for the reenactment of the Biblical story of Jesus’ birth. The church, built in 1999, is set at the base of a cliff in an area that was once a rock quarry. “We have a very natural setting and a nature trail that allows us to this,” said Pastor Scott Martz, who is in his 17th year serving at Lamb of God. Pastor Scott, as he is addressed, recalled how it was his then-second-grade son Andrew, now 23 and a recent gradSee

NATIVITY on page 22

(Dianne Ross/AFN Contributor)

Among the cast for the Live Nativity at Lamb of God Church are Sarah Palmer playing an angel, John Palmer as a shepherd, Adam Martz as Joseph and Liza Mizukami as Mary.

Esperanza Lutheran debuts the whole story of Christmas classic AFN News Staff

(Special to AFN)

Ahwatukee composer David Coste, left, produced and wrote the musical that Esperanza Lutheran Church and other local children are rehearsing, above, for a Christmas musical to be presented at the church Dec. 15-17. The musical is a take-off on "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King."

hwatukee composer David Coste and Esperanza Lutheran Church are continuing what is becoming a Christmas tradition in the community by presenting a new Christmas musical. Their “The Thingy That Cracks Nuts,” will debut at 7 p.m. Dec. 15-16 and 3 p.m. Dec. 17, at the church, 2601 E. Thunderhill Place, Ahwatukee. Tickets, at a suggested donation of $5, are available at thethingythatcraksnuts.com, in the church office on Mondays and Wednesdays and at the door. Coste is basing his new production on “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffmann and adapted by Alexander Dumas for the ballet by Tchaikovsky. Coste has written hundreds of songs for various media. His first work was as a resident composer at University Lutheran Chapel at UCLA, writing choral and

electronic music. As a performer, he regularly plays guitar, drums and keyboards at Esperanza, keyboards for the local jazz fusion band Jazzatukee and multiple instruments for his creative project, The Company Drive. In 2010, Coste launched Josquin Music to consolidate all his music and instruction. He teaches privately a roster of keyboard, guitar and drum students with a range from 6 years old to adult. The plot follows the classic story of Marie Stahlbaum, who adopts a broken nutcracker and sees it come to life to help battle the mouse army. In the second act, the story of how the nutcracker came to be is acted out on stage: In a faraway kingdom, a princess is cursed by the mouse queen with a giant nutcracker head. A young man breaks the curse, but through the treachery of the mouse queen takes the curse onto himself, and See

CLASSIC on page 23

COMMUNITY

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Let there be Lights Festival Kick-Off partiers

(Special to AFN)

Thousands of people headed over to Desert Foothills Park last Saturday, Nov. 25, for the annual Fedstival of Lights Kick-Off Party that helps raise money to keep holiday lights glowing along Chandler Boulevard between the parkway and 24th Street through New Year's Day. The partiers include, from left: top row: Jackson and Logan Lane, who visited with Santa; and Ali Becker and Sharon Cooper, who were vying to become two of Santa's elves. Middle row: Quinn McGuigan tires to balance herself on the monkey bridge; Ashley Carney and Leah Jenson take a break from touring the festival grounds; and Steve Gee uses a lift on one of the bounce houses on the premises. Bottom row: Darci Weathers and 9-year-old Gianna Weathers enjoy the brilliant blue sky and warm temperatures; Malakai Dawson, 11, plays a game; and 7-year-old Mia Hall displays her talent in the children's art area. PHOTOS BY KIMBERLY CARRILLO AFN Photographer

COMMUNITY

NATIVITY

from page 20

uate of the FAA Training Academy, who first saw the possibilities of projected imagines on the towering cliffs outside the sanctuary’s floor-to-ceiling south windows. “I was using a projector and screen and somehow after a Bible study class, the projector got bumped and was shining through the glass,” recalled Martz. “Andrew came and insisted that the cliff was a screen. I thought he was just seeing the reflection off the glass, but he

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

wouldn’t give up and pulled me to the window. I looked and on the cliff could read ‘In Focus’ in giant five-foot letters. That’s when we started experimenting with how images and video can be projected onto our rocks and hillsides.” Though the 13th annual Live Nativity remains free to the public, the two-anda-half hour production is not without cost to Lamb of God Lutheran Church. But Martz calls it a gift worth sharing. “The Live Nativity costs us multiple thousands of dollars each year, but they are well worth it. It’s a free gift to the community, and we would have it no

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other way. The original Christmas gift, Christ, was a free gift to the world 2,000 years ago, and our goal is to make the biblical Christmas story come to life,” he said. “Ahwatukee is big on Christmas, Christmas lights, the Festival of Lights Kick-Off, the Lighted Motorcycle parade. All those are fine traditions. We believe, however, that unless the birth of Christ is celebrated, people are missing out on the best part of the Christmas season, and we are happy to do this.” The Live Nativity actually began as a booth at the Festival of Lights Kick-Off. It was then moved to the church but on the same night as the Kick-Off. In 2011, celebrated a week later, 400 people attended, and participation continues to grow, with 600 to 800 expected this year. “We’ve added extra parking at Cerritos Elementary School and a shuttle service in hopes of accommodating more participants,” said Martz. Longtime Ahwatukee resident and Lamb of God church member Wendy Schroeder volunteered as event coordinator this year, having played a plethora of roles in pageants past, including a Bethlehem singer, a shepherd narrator and an angel. “While this is an outreach event for our church and our primary goal is to reach our community with the message that Christ the Savior is born, I’m equally excited about the opportunity our members have to work alongside each other in the effort,” she said, noting members were quick to respond to her call for volunteers. The realism of this Live Nativity owes a great deal to Elroy Bartsch, a founding member of the church whose background as a set designer includes work with several Super Bowl commissioners’ parties, the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego and Los Angeles’ Century Plaza. “The church’s setting is so great, the stable looks like it just belongs there, not like it was just set up on a blacktop driveway. I built this among the rocks with timbers and palm tree thatch. It looks like, at least to me, what I imagine it might really have looked like,” said Bartsch, a 31-year Ahwatukee resident, adding: “The original sets have changed little over the years, but the trail has greatly improved.” Playing Mary this year is Saori Liza Mizukami, and Adam Martz, the pastor’s youngest son, as Joseph.

For Mizukami, the role of Mary is a further solidifying of her faith, having been baptized last spring. A senior at Arizona Lutheran Academy, the Tokyo native is in her second year in the U.S. “Since this year is the year my faith got so much stronger, I love, love, love to play Mary and honor Him,” she said. The three Wise Men – played by Chad Chadderton, Daniel Weed and Ken Sutherland – are the longest-tenured actors. The first stop on the guided tour, the three richly garbed Magi who traveled afar following the Christmas star to the Christ Child, hold lit treasure boxes, one of which holds gold-wrapped chocolates that are distributed to children. “It’s much more popular with the children than frankincense and myrrh,” quipped Weed. “The shepherd scene also gives out candy canes. We three wise men haven’t changed since I started in 2011.” Weed, a 21-year Ahwatukee resident and former NASA engineer, said he participates every year to share with the community “the message of Christmas – that of God reaching out in love to humanity.” “Sometimes this gets lost in all the commercial hype, although I suppose you could blame us wise men for the tradition of gift giving,” Weed said. Ahwatukee Realty owner/broker Chad Chadderton is one of the original members of the church and responsible for finding the property and negotiating the purchase. He has been a Wise Man since the Live Nativity’s inception, and is also in charge of corralling the live animals, including the 13-year-old, 1,600-pound camel that came from Maricopa. “I have a passion for our church, and reaching out to people to make a difference in their spirituality,” said Chadderton. “The Live Nativity takes a lot of time and work to prepare, especially getting grounds ready for event, but I don’t mind hard work and get great satisfaction from the results.” The 20-minute guided tours of the Live Nativity run 6-8:30 p.m. According to Schroeder, guests are met with a gift and a hot beverage when they arrive, and the congregants serve refreshments at the end of the walking path. A free shuttle allows parking at Cerritos Elementary School, 14620 S. Desert Foothills Parkway. More information is at MylambofGod.org.

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

CLASSIC

from page 20

is transformed into a nutcracker doll. In the final scene, the Mouse King demands all of Marie’s possessions in place of the nutcracker. But the doll comes to life, prevails over the mouse king and is restored to a prince. He invites Marie to be his queen and gives her a gift that is not the land of sweets. “This ending is where the plot diverges from the original story,” Coste said. “In Hoffmann’s time, sweets may have been a rare treat for children, but in our modern sweet-filled society, it’s not such a big deal. “In ‘The Thingy That Cracks Nuts,’ Marie gets a different reward, something I think would satisfy Hoffmann as well as our current youth.” “Thingy” also differs from the Christmas classic in another significant way: The music is all original and is not based on any of Tchaikovsky’s themes. ‘It is my first premiere since ‘Noelophobia’ in 2010,” Coste said. Coste said he got the idea of retelling the Christmas story after reading an article that noted the Dumas adaption

“didn’t tell the whole story of the Nutcracker, nor did it emphasize some main themes that Hoffmann was communicating through his story.” He said the article noted that “Hoffmann was commenting on his generation’s overemphasis on rational thinking, at the expense of fantasy.” “In Hoffmann’s original story, there is a backstory about ‘The Hard Nut to Crack,’ which explains how the Nutcracker came to be,” he explained. “In this part of the story, a young man removes a curse from a princess, only to take curse onto himself. "The princess refuses to marry the now-ugly man, who travels with his uncle Drosselmeyer, looking for someone who will love him in spite of his looks, which sets up the main Nutcracker story. This will be covered in ‘The Thingy That Cracks Nuts.’” Coste sees “a tension between the wonderful fantasy world of Marie and the dreamless world of reality which is embraced by the adults and her older sister, Louise. The mysterious Godfather Drosselmeyer straddles these two worlds.” Coste and his largely very young cast have been hard at work on the produc-

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sets is Hal Hoover, who expanded the stage and constructed the support walls for the show, including the grandfather clock. The cast of 28 ranges in age from 7 through high school and includes church members and other Ahwatukee residnts. “The full inclusion of the Ahwatukee community is important to Esperanza Lutheran Church, a church that considers itself welcoming to all people regardless of church membership,” Coste said. Information: 480-759-1515.

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tion since summer. “They rehearse just one day a week,” he said. “We don’t want this production to dominate family schedules, as many productions do. So, there are no boot camps or rehearsal weekends. We encourage families to use any extra time for family activities.” “The Thingy That Cracks Nuts” is produced by Esperanza Lutheran Church and Josquin Music. The directing team consists of Coste and Kathy Tuszynski, Children’s Ministry coordinator at Esperanza. Supervising the team that built the

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Summit School bringing free ‘pop-up playground’ to Ahwatukee AFN News Staff

f you think your kids have fun with Legos, wait till they experience the Pop-up Adventure Playground that Summit School of Ahwatukee is making available to families for free this weekend. The “Pop-Up Adventure Playground” will be presented 10 a.m.-noon on the campus of Summit School of Ahwatukee, 4515 E. Muirwood Drive, one block south of Chandler Boulevard on the corner of 46th Street. This free community event is literally popping up all over the globe – including Cairo, Shanghai, Mexico City, New York,” said Summit in a release, saying it’s free through its partnership with Treasures 4 Teachers and Pop-Up Adventure Play. The materials, or “loose parts,” can be combined, moved, carried, redesigned, lined up, taken apart and put back together in multiple ways. There are no specific directions for the large boxes, cardboard tubes, fabric, yarn, rocks, sticks, boxes, tires, markers, tape

our differences within the community and connect on a deep level, sending a clear message that you don’t need money to play.” Andrea Benkel, Summit’s director of early childhood education, said playing with the loose parts “is the foundation for critical thinking and creativity.” “We celebrate the ‘mini-makers’ in all chil(Special to AFN) dren and look forward to Summit School’s “pop-up playground” will delight children. the engineers, scientists, and other stuff provided to children, who artists, mathematicians and technology can take home their creations. innovators that will have their visions “These events are a fantastic way for come to life at this event,” Benkel added, people of all ages to come together,” said noting: Morgan Leichter-Saxby, Pop-Up Adven“As a NAEYC-accredited preschool and ture Playground co-founder. an elementary and middle school devoted “Play is so important for children’s to teaching critical thinking skills for all growth and development and for their students.” happiness,” she said. “Pop-Up Adventure Barbara Blalock, a former teacher in playgrounds are also a fun way to bridge Ahwatukee who founded and directs

Treasures 4 Teachers, said, “We are on a mission to educate parents on the value of play, using wonderful materials called ‘loose parts,’ which are materials that have no specific outcome other than to build on a child’s imagination.” Her Treasures 4 Teachers traces its origin to 2004, when saw a need to do something to help teachers who often don’t have even the basic supplies they need for their students. Armed with only her passion and her now-emptied Ahwatukee garage, she began Treasures 4 Teachers, a creative reuse center for teachers to get the supplies they need for free or at a low cost, so their students can be successful. Today, a plethora of local business, schools and private donors keep Blalock’s 12,000-square-foot facility filled in Tempe, serving thousands of teachers and students. “Pop-Up Adventure Playgrounds are truly a gift for children and families,” Blalock said. See

PLAYGROUND on page 26

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Ford teaches Mountain Pointe High students safe driving skills AFN News Staff

tudents from Mountain Pointe High School recently got some free training behind the wheel. They were among 1,000 who attended the Ford Driving Skills for Life advanced teen driver training earlier this month. Ford’s philanthropic arm visits Phoenix every fall and provides free training to 1,000-plus teens and parents through its Skills for Life program. Ford Driving Skills for Life emphasizes the primary cause of vehicle crashes – inexperience. “Students gain experience and learn by a variety of hands-on driving methods with professional instructors, who teach key skill sets that boost young drivers’ confidence and knowledge,” the company said in a release. The clinics provide professional advanced driving instruction beyond what is learned in driver education, including through the use of Ford’s drugged and drunk driving suits. Motor vehicle crashes are the lead-

on training newly licensed drivers to make better driving decisions and features Ford’s suits to warn about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving. “We are excited to bring our global award-winning program back to Phoenix,” said (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company) Graham, Using special goggles, Mountain Pointe High School students Abby Cre- James spo, 15, left, and Kayla Messersmith, 16, learned about distracted driving, global manager, which includes texting while driving and driving while impaired. Ford Driving Skills for Life. “We look forward to expanding ing cause of death among teenagers in our efforts to help reduce the number of America, and the program helps new crashes and fatalities through real-world drivers stay safe behind the wheel. training and teaching improved deciBeyond driver education training, sion-making skills. We believe we are the program focuses on the issues and making a substantial contribution to obstacles drivers face that cause crashes, safer driving for local students and parincluding vehicle handling, hazard rec- ents in the Phoenix metro area.” ognition, speed and space management, According to preliminary data from and distracted and impaired driving. the Arizona Department of TransportaA key part of the instruction focuses tion, nearly 100 young drivers ages 15-

24 were killed in motor vehicle crashes in Arizona in 2016. “Mission Not Accomplished: Teen Safe Driving, the Next Chapter,” a Governors Highway Safety Association report released last year, shows that despite progress reducing teen driving deaths from 2005 to 2014, teen drivers are still 1.6 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than adults 3540. Special emphasis for 2017 includes instruction for drivers ages 18-20, who are involved in more fatal crashes than younger teens.

GOT NEWS?

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5647 or pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

ARC remembers our troops

(Special to AFN)

Barb Guignard, left, and Mary Williams joined scores of other volunteers at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center recently to pack more than 200 boxes filled with goodies for military men and women in Afghanistan via Luke Air Force Base. Coordinator Mary Lentz said this was one of two such packings that the ARC HOA conducts annually, filling boxes with books, magazines, T-shirts, socks, word puzzle books, snacks, toothbrushes, toiletries and quilted Christmas stockings made by ARC's Charity Sewers group. The volunteers have been sending troops these boxes for seven years and raise money through the various groups that use the rec center.

PLAYGROUND

from page 24

At Pop-Up Playgrounds, volunteers are called “play workers.” Volunteers will include Summit School students from the Spanish Honors Society and National Junior Honors Society, eighth-grade ambassadors and fifth-graders who have applied and earned the designation of “self-managers.” The self-managers earned their leadership positions by demonstrating strong abilities to independently and successfully manage activities and school.

The Summit fifth-graders will be entrepreneurs for the day, with the goal of organizing and building a profitable business to sell snacks at the event. Students will select a business name, procure a healthy food choice to sell, set price points, design signage and create a work schedule. Their profits will be donated to a charity. Information: treasures4teachers. org, summitschoolaz.org or popupadventureplaygrounds.wordpress.com.

Find GetOut in

GetOut. GetConnected. ahwatukee.com/arts_life/ facebook.com/getoutaz twitter.com/getoutaz

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

LLC WHOLESALE to the TRADES

AROUND AHWATUKEE

New support group for family estrangement slated here

Although rarely discussed, family estrangement is far more common than most people realize. The estranged suffer from loneliness, lack of self-esteem, guilt, anger and depression. With this recognition, Desert Foothills United Methodist Church, 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee, has started a monthly support group for this community called “Living Loss.” Anyone in the community is invited to attend a group meeting. No questions asked, and anonymity will be respected. Because the approaching holidays can be very challenging for one who has been estranged from family, coping mechanisms will be the topic of discussion at the next meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5. Information: 480-460-1025 and office@desertfoothills.org

Mountain Pointe High cheer squads in national tourney

Under the tutelage of former ASU cheerleader and NCAA All-American Coach Clare Taylor, Mountain Pointe High School’s cheer, spirit and pom teams placed recently in the top 5 percent of the 64 teams in the Arizona High School Qualifier, locking in a spot in the USA National Competition. This is the first time in the school’s history that all its squads are going to nationals.

Senior Focus sponsored by Mountain Park Church

To enhance the Christian journey and quality of life for seniors and their caretakers through education, support and outreach, Mountain Park Church: 16461 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee, is holding a Senior Living session 6:30-8 p.m. Dec. 12 on dementia and options for senior living with guest speaker Scott Fisher, RN. The discussion will look at such questions as, what are the differences between normal aging, “mild cognitive impairment,” dementia and Alzheimer’s? What are the treatments, preventions and care options?

Ahwatukee woman offers Santa-pet pics for shelter help

Eleanor Dexter Marsh is offering photos of your pet with Santa to help raise money for the Maricopa County shelter. “We have some one that can take pictures or if they prefer they can take their own,” she said, adding that all pictures will be put on Facebook for family friends. Donations of food and blankets are suggested. Times are 6-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1 and Dec 2. at 4802 E. Paiute St., Ahwatukee.

Summit School teacher lauded by Junior Achievement

Summit School of Ahwatukee teacher Kyle Allen has been named the 2016-2017 Junior Achievement Biztown Teacher of the Year, selected among 250 of his peers. Codie Cancellieri, senior education manager for Junior Achievement, said, “Kyle Allen has done an outstanding job in his role as the JA BizTown Lead Teacher for Summit School. His sincere belief in the mission of Junior Achievement is very apparent and he takes the time and care to ensure that all of the students at Summit school receive a quality JA program.”

Junior Achievement teaches students about financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship.

Inspire Kids Montessori schedules open house

Inspire Kids Montessori will host an open house 9-11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 1 at its Ahwatukee campus, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd. Enrollment discounts will be provided to parents who register their child during the event. Information: 480-659-9402, info@inspirekidsmontessori.com or inspirekidsmontessori.com.

Dignity Health teams up with Toys for Tots to bring kids cheer

Dignity Health Emergency Room, 4328 East Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee has launched a Toys for Tots campaign for unwrapped toys for kids up to 12 years of age through Dec. 10. The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program has been delivering toys to children in need since 1947 and is the largest outreach program in the Department of Defense. The program has since given out more than 494 million toys to more than 230 million children. The ER facility is open for donations around the clock.

AARP offering a smart-driver course for seniors

AARP is sponsoring a four-hour class that helps seniors refresh and maintain their driving skills. The classes cover changes in not only road and intersection designs, but also changes in automotive technologies. Tips on aging and driving are also provided to help increase confidence. Each student receives a certificate that may make them eligible for insurance discounts, although that depends on the insurer. The class will be held at Generations Ahwatukee, 15815 S. 50th St., Ahwatukee 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec 1. The cost is $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members. To register or learn more about future classes: Jane at 480-710-7265 or janesimmers@ gmail.com.

Ahwatukee Legion post to hold benefit golf tournament

American Legion Post 64 in Ahwatukee needs help with donations and registrants for a golf tournament. The tournament is scheduled for 8 a.m. Dec. 16 at Legacy Golf Club, 6808 S. 32nd St., Phoenix. Cost is $90 per person for golf and dinner and $15 for a spouse as a dinner partner only. Because the legion has no physical club post and therefore no income from bar and food services, Post 64 relies on the tournament to underwrite a vast array of charitable causes. It supports military and veterans’ hospitality rooms at Sky Harbor Airport, sends care packages to overseas military personnel, supports the Stand Down program for homeless vets, and supports various programs in Ahwatukee schools. The legion is looking for donations of raffle prizes, sponsorships and players. Information: Pete Meir, 602-690-3361 or petemeier@cox.net; Doug Patterson at dpatterson27@cox. net or 602-791-6843 or Ed Mangan at emangan3@aol. com or 602-501-0128.

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The Unspoken Heroes: Never Forget AFN News Staff

n Ahwatukee teen recently earned first place in the 2017 Phoenix Veterans Day Parade essay contest for his composition about the Cold War and his grandfather’s service during that politically charged era. Catholic Prep junior Ethan Brown was among more than 200 students who entered the essay contest, writing to the theme “Silent Sacrifice: Honoring Our Cold War Veterans.” This is the fourth year in a row that Seton students have either won or placed in the essay contest, which is open to Maricopa County high school students. The essays were judged on creative writing, grammar, originality, content and theme focus. The top three finishers receive cash prizes courtesy of Durant’s Restaurant and a ride in the Phoenix Veterans Day parade. Brown’s English teacher, Jessica Breen, also will receive a $150 gift card for use in her classroom. Brown described the Cold War as a tense, 46-year-long standoff between the U.S. and the former Soviet Union. He personalized his essay by recounting the experiences of his grandfather, retired Air Force Master Sgt. Paul G. Agne. “Everything my grandpa did in his military career was designed to prepare him for full-scale nuclear war,” Brown stated. Agne, who enlisted right out of high school, was stationed at Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson in 1980 when he

was deployed to Turkey. Seton Principal Victor Serna said, “We are proud of Ethan for earning first place in the Veterans Day Parade essay competition. Ethan, as well as those students who have done so well in previous competitions, is a great example of how we value and honor our veterans here at Seton Catholic Preparatory.” Cold War “duck and cover” drills at elementary schools were a constant reminder of imminent threat. Here is his essay: One of the tensest eras of American history was built not on what happened, but on what didn’t happen. It was an era where there were no direct conflicts between the two enemies. An era where there were no formal shots fired. An era where we protected ourselves against hypotheticals instead of actualities. This was the Cold War, a 46year standoff between two superpowers. My grandfather is a Cold War Era veteran. My grandpa, Msgt. Paul G Agne, USAF Ret., enlisted in the Air Force right out of high school in 1971, serving over 22 years. When he enlisted, Vietnam, a proxy war between the U.S. and Soviet Union, was already going on. Everything my grandpa did in his military career was designed to prepare him for full-scale nuclear war. He was stationed at Davis Monthan in Tucson until 1980 when he was deployed to Turkey to support anticommunism in the Middle East. For the safety of my mom and grandma he went alone, leaving his family for a year.

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Turkey was a dangerous country, with bombings and violence, but the Americans were there to support the Turks against the USSR. It took an amazing amount of courage to leave everything behind in order to protect the world from the Soviet threat, but like all veterans, he sacrificed because of his love for our country. My grandpa said that serving in the Cold War was difficult in spite of not being a “hot war.” A majority of his time was spent knowing there was a real nuclear (Special to AFN) threat, tensions rising conCatholic Prep junior Ethan Brown of Ahwatukee won the annual stantly, but he had to stay Phoenix Veterans Day Parade Essay Contest. strong to take care of his family. Those in the military waited anxiously to see if the USSR would astrophic war was for a war that never hapact, if a missile was headed their way or pened. On November 9, 1989, the Berlin global war was approaching. It was a stress- Wall came down. December 26, 1991, the ful time watching and waiting to see what Soviet Union dissolved. The Cold War had ended. happened. However, in some ways the Cold War My grandpa said one of the toughest parts was the effect on his family. The school my and its veterans have been lost to recent mom went to on base was kept on alert, just memory. There was no parade for the sollike the soldiers. They had nuclear drills just diers when the war ended. There is no Cold like we have fire drills today. The windows War medal for the veterans. They are the of her elementary school had heavy drapes silent heroes of a terrifying era in American as protection against nuclear fallout, and history. The debt of gratitude we owe them they practiced drills, hiding under desks for their sacrifices is indescribable. They are the heroes who stood ready at the watch, with the drapes shut tight. Fortunately, all the preparation for a cat- preventing the war that never happened.

CALENDAR

SATURDAY, DEC. 2

Level Up: Harry Potter

Do you love Muggles? If so, join us for a special Hogwarts class in which you imagine and create our new Muggles Studies course. Attendees must agree to the requirements of this ASU research partnership to participate. Details are in the calendar at phxlib. org. DETAILS>> Dec. 2 and 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Dec. 16, 1-3 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages 8-12. Free. No registration required.

SUNDAY, DEC. 3

‘Stars Wars’ meets ‘Nutcracker’

Blast off with the magic of the season as “Star Wars” meets “The Nutcracker” and activities are centered around a galactic STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math). DETAILS>> 2-3p.m. Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” will be performed by the Mill Ave Chamber Players. 3-4 p.m. Enjoy galactic activities with a holiday flair.

Attendees can enter a drawing for a Leapfrog Epic, a learning tablet appropriate for kids 3 to 8. Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

Plant walk offered

publication. Current participants and newcomers are welcome at this planning meeting. There will be no gathering in January. DETAILS>> 6-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

trademark basics such as how to select a distinctive and federally register-able trademark and the difference between state and federal registration. Presented by Chris Love, of Kewenvoyouma Law. DETAILS>> 6-7:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Registration required via the calendar at phxlib.org.

After making prickly pear cactus juice and roasting some cactus seeds, participants will walk in the desert with awareness of the culinary and medicinal beings all around us. Saguaros, palo verde, ironwood, mesquite, lavender, turpentine bush and many other plants will be covered. DETAILS>> 3-5:30 P.M. Ahwatukee Foothills. Exact address given upon registration. $15 per person: Register at KellyAthena.com..

‘Living Loss’ group to meet

TUESDAY, DEC. 5

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 6

SATURDAY, DEC. 9

Parchment and Prose Writers’ discussion group meets the first Tuesday of every month for workshops, presentations, and discussions about all aspects of the writing process from conception to

Copyright provides a way for artists, innovators and other entrepreneurial ventures to protect and monetize their creativity. This workshop introduces copyright licensing and infringement, as well as

Body Firm has organized some Ahwatukee merchants for a Mountain Park Pavilion Holiday Side-

Writer’s planning meeting

People estranged from their families and looking for a safe place to discuss loneliness, lack of self-esteem, guilt, anger, depression and other feelings from their situation can gather for a no-questionsasked session. DETAILS>> 7 p.m., Desert Foothills United Methodist Church, 2156 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee Information:480-460-1025 and office@desertfoothills.org

Business Law Series

Book Discussion Club

Read the book and join each month’s lively discussion the first Wednesday of the month. December’s read: “One Summer: America 1927” by Bill Bryson. January’s read: “Daring to Drive” by Manal al-Sharif. DETAILS>> 7-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

Body Firm shops local See

CALENDAR on page 30

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

COMMUNITY

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Flu fighters

CALENDAR

from page 28

walk Event. Other participants include Global Bikes, Florencia Pizza & Bistro, Coffee & Crafting Company, Allstate, Walter J. Rapacz, DDS, Foxy Nails, Lemonade Clothing, ‘ZonaRocks, State Farm and Premier Designs. Holiday specials and drawings for prizes from the businesses will highlight the event. DETAILS>> 8 a.m.- noon. 3636 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Information: 480-705-9801.

Edible houses being built

Teens 12-18 can create a graham cracker house for the holidays. This event is free and all supplies will be provided. DETAILS>> 2-3 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

TUESDAY, DEC. 12

LEGO Lab offered

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

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, Dec. 16-17 (Special to AFN)

Kari Czerniski,a first grade teacher at St. John Bosco Catholic School in Ahwatukee, teaches some students safe practices to curb the spread of flu. They are, from left, Aubrey Keane, Christopher Cummings, Brooklyn Munter and Kendra Twohy.

Holiday crafts fest set

The Ahwatukee Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival will feature artists from Phoenix and Tucson with unique and handmade items from various mediums – paintings, jewelry, clothing, beading, photography, wood

works, metal art and home décor. DETAILS>> 5031 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Information: artattackaz@gmail.com; Kevin. 520-578-5142 or Nancy, 520-481-8001.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19

Writers Critique Group

On the third Tuesday of every month, bring five double-spaced pages of writing to get feedback from fellow writers. DETAILS>> 6-7:45 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

THURSDAY, DEC. 21

‘Christmas House’ is open

For a few hours every year, Jim Simpson opens his Ahwatukee Christmas House to the public. Inside, visitors will find over 100 animated figures, ornaments and nativities from around the world, an 8-foot wall of angels, a 12-foot Christmas tree, over 60 nutcrackers, train sets, a 75-house village, over 30,000 lights in and around the house and Santa Claus. The magic of Christmas will surround guests. The home was the 2016 winner of the annual Ahwatukee Holiday Lights contest. There is no charge to walk through the house, but the homeowners accept non-perishable food items for donation to local charities. DETAILS>> 2313 E. Taxidea Way, Ahwatukee, 6-9 p.m.

See

CALENDAR on page 31

COMMUNITY

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

CALENDAR

Coloring for grown-ups

MONDAYS

from page 30

Ahwatukee women can meet

Family Storytime

Wear your pajamas to a special reading of this holiday classic by Chris Van Allsburg. Enjoy cookies with your friends afterward. DETAILS>> 6:30-7:15 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Space is limited & tickets are available at 6pm.

WEDNESDAY DEC. 27

Ahwatukee Foothills Friend & Neighbors offers local women a chance to meet other ladies who like to have fun at monthly meetings and in its interest groups. The group meets the fourth Monday of each month at local venues to enjoy lunch or happy hour and sometimes a program. In December, a holiday dinner-dance will be held Dec. 8 at the Foothills Golf Club. Payment is always due a week ahead of the event. DETAILS>> affanwomensgroup@gmail.com.

Chamber offers networking

Blood drive

Give the gift of blood at this American Red Cross Blood Drive! Appointments are recommended and can be made at redcrossblood.org; select the “donating blood” option to submit your appointment time. Walk-in donations are also welcome, as available DETAILS>> 2:30-7 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Registration required via the calendar at phxlib.org.

SUNDAYS

Learn gardening from pros

Learn desert gardening by getting your hands dirty with the Ahwatukee Community Gardening Project. Share in the knowledge, the produce and the smiles. All ages welcome. Bring sun protection and water. Tools optional. DETAILS>> 8-9:15 a.m. in the northwest corner of the park at 4700 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee. Behind the guitar player at the farmers market. Information: acgarden.org or 480-759-5338.

The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group is open to chamber members. DETAILS>> Noon, Native Grill and Wings, 5030 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee. Gina Jenkins, 480-990-5444.

LD 18 Dems meet monthly

Legislative District 18 Democrats gather monthly, usually the second Monday, to share news, opportunities, food and laughter. Meetings include guest speakers, legislative updates, how-to sessions and Q&A. Volunteer or just meet like-minded folks. DETAILS>> For times and places: ld18democrats. org/calendar.

TUESDAYS

Homework help

Volunteer Eric will help with homework. DETAILS>> 4-5:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages 5-18. Free. No registration required.

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Improve your speaking skills and meet interesting people at Ahwatukee Toastmasters meetings DETAILS>> 6:45-8 a.m at the Dignity Health Community Room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

Power Partners available

The Ahwatukee Chamber offers Power Partners every Tuesday except the second Tuesday of the month, when attendees are encouraged to attend the Wake Up Ahwatukee Morning Mixer. DETAILS>> 7:45-8:45 a.m. Early Baker, 15645 S. 40th St., Ahwatukee. Free Information:. Gina Jenkins, 480-990-5444.

WEDNESDAYS

Montessori holds open house

Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori holds an open house weekly. It includes a short talk about Montessori education, followed by a tour of its campus.

An informal, relaxed social organization of about 90 women living in the Ahwatukee Foothills/Club West area. DETAILS>> 7 p.m. second Wednesday of the month, Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Contact Shelley Miller, president, at 602-527-6789 or essentiallyshelley@gmail.com

Parents can ‘drop in’

Parents are invited to join a drop-in group to ask questions, share ideas or just listen to what’s going on with today’s teenagers. DETAILS>> 5:30-7 p.m. second Wednesday of each month. Maricopa Cooperative Extension, 4341 E. Broadway Road, Phoenix. Free. RSVP at 602-8278200, ext. 348, or rcarter@cals.arizona.edu.

Dems offer doughnuts

Legislative District 18 Democrats gather for an informal chat. DETAILS>> Free and open to the public 7:30-9 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Denny’s, 7400 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. RSVP: marie9@q. com or 480-592-0052.

Coming Soon!

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Toastmasters sharpen skills

Foothills Women meet

Coupon must be presented to receive discount. Offers may not be combined. Exp. 12-31-17.

You're invited to join us at the next meeting of our monthly coffee club

Member SIPC

Inner Vision Yoga Studio offers chair yoga to help seniors and people recovering from injuries to stay fit. DETAILS>> 1:30-2:30 p.m., 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. $5 per class. Information:

Hospice of the Valley offers a free ongoing grief support group for adults and is open to any adult who has experienced a loss through death. DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m. first and third Wednesdays, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. 602-6365390 or HOV.org.

Coupon must be presented to receive discount. Offers may not be combined. Exp. 12-31-17.

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Adult coloring promotes mindfulness, reduces stress and improves cognitive motor skills. We’ll provide the markers, crayons, colored pencils and coloring sheets; you just bring yourself and your friends! DETAILS>> 1:30-3 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. No registration required.

DETAILS>> 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-759-3810

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Holiday events accentuate Ahwatukee’s impulse of kindness BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

hile most people were fretting over turkey and trimmings last week, small groups of Ahwatukee residents were busying themselves with tying up the loose ends on gifts to others – mostly total strangers. Several days before Thanksgiving, the Kiwanis Club of Ahwatukee and women from Desert Foothills United Methodist Church teamed up with women from a Mesa church to treat nearly 400 teens from group foster homes to a genuine holiday dinner that included visits from Arizona Cardinals, raffles and prizes. Led by Ahwatukee residents Janyce Hazlett and Susan Anderton, president and secretary of the Festival of Lights Committee, respectively, another group of volunteers again put aside the typical pursuits of the long Thanksgiving

weekend so that their neighbors, friends and total strangers could come together at a free bash to open the holiday season. For them, Black Friday didn’t mean staking a claim on a bargain, but setting up the Festival of Lights Kick-Off Party to delight and engage young and old alike the next day. Of course, the countless number of individuals, couples and families who ambled over to the park may not have thought of those volunteers as they strolled down the vendor marketplace, or listened to music or watched kids gleefully romp on “bouncies.” I suspect the foster children were perhaps a tad more cognizant of strangers showing them the love that they likely didn’t see at home. Consider the heartbreaking reality behind the reminder that was sent to volunteers by Carolyn Arndt, a Desert Foothills United Methodist Church congregant who, with Kiwanis member Andi Pettyjohn, have been prime movers

in organizing the dinner: “Imagine that they might have been in foster care for only hours, or days, and here they are in a crowd of strangers now asking about them about their lives. All they want is to go home to their family – no matter the situation in their family.” Many other Ahwatukee residents open their hearts to strangers. They range from Jim Simpson – who opens his spectacularly decorated home at 2313 E. Taxidea Way from 6-9 p.m. Dec. 21 to the public so people can enjoy an incredible array of Christmas ornaments and other decorations – to the owners of Ahwatukee Plaza and Millie’s Hallmark, who last Friday treated kids to a visit by Santa from a helicopter. Then there are the dancers who work hard for months to prepare for dance instructor Kimberly Lewis’ signature Ahwatukee event, “Nutcracker.” The elaborate lengths to which Lewis goes are striking – again partially to bring some holiday joy to strangers.

And yes, I’d even count all those homeowners and business owners around town who took time out of their busy holiday schedule to decorate their houses and stores to make this time of year a little extra special for the community. Speaking of lights, let’s not forget that the Kick-Off Party has a special purpose – generating revenue to pay for the installation and removal of the million lights that make night driving along Chandler Boulevard between 24th Street and Desert Foothills Parkway. In many ways, the ThanksgivingChristmas season illuminates the vein of good will that runs through the community all year long – as testified to almost daily on social media sites like Ahwatukee 411 and Ahwatukee Friends and, of course, weekly in this newspaper. Almost makes one wish that there was one primary entryway to Ahwatukee could include a roadside sign that said, “Welcome to Ahwatukee, where kindness to strangers is an everyday thing.”

Senior citizens are forgotten victims of opioid epidemic BY MARY LYNN KASUNIC AFN Guest Writer

hat’s been missing from the conversation surrounding the opioid public health emergency and ongoing prescription drug misuse is its devastating impact on older adults and the significant need for more education specifically for this population. According to the Arizona Department of Vital Statistics, nearly 17 percent of the state’s population aged 55 and older who were admitted to hospitals in 2015 were reported to have Opioid Use Disorder. The Arizona RX Drug Misuse and Abuse Initiative: A Multi-Systemic, Multi-Level Approach for Addressing Arizona’s “Silent Epidemic,” published by the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, flatly stated that “adult

prescription drug misuse in Arizona is alarmingly high.” Statistics show that 2.5 million older adults struggle with alcohol and drug problems, representing up to 11 percent of all elderly hospital admissions, 14 percent of emergency room admissions and 20 percent of elderly psychiatric hospital admissions. Although people 65 and over represent only 13 percent of the U.S. population, they account for nearly 30 percent of all prescribed medications. And, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence reports that seniors face a greater risk of harmful medication interactions and even more-debilitating general physical effects of alcohol and drugs. The Area Agency on Aging is taking a leading role in addressing the issues of medication management through several key initiatives. The Agency has a long history with

Mercy Maricopa Integrated Care (MMIC), formerly the Regional Behavioral Health Authority, to do prevention work that educates older adults and professionals about medication misuse. As a part of this work, in 2015, the Agency developed RxMatters, an education presentation in conjunction with Prevention Works AZ and the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission. The program focuses on opioid safe storage and disposal of medication for older adults and their caregivers. In April 2017, the Area Agency created a six-week awareness MMIC-funded campaign about the proper use of medications. Also in 2017, 16 AmeriCorps Members in three Arizona counties took the RxMatters program into the homes of older adults and their caregivers through funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Finally, Area Agency on Aging, Re-

gion One and three other state Area Agencies are part of a targeted response grant to address opioid misuse in five Arizona counties. Funding for the effort is from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and AHCCCS and in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family. With the Arizona Department of Health Services reporting more than 3,200 suspected opioid overdoses statewide since June 15, with more than 400 of them resulting in deaths, addressing this crisis as a community has never been more critical. In doing so, we cannot overlook – or overstate -- the impact of the crisis on one of our most vulnerable populations. -Mary Lynn Kasunic is president/CEO of the Area Agency on Aging. For information about its programs to fight prescription and opioid misuse among older adults, go to aaaphx.org.

OPINION

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

LETTERS

Common phrases rob the mentally ill of dignity

If “loose lips sink ships,” being fast and loose with words and language signals careless thinking, ignorance, insensitivity or blatant disrespect. Many were aghast that a 2016 U.S. Presidential candidate would mock a reporter with cerebral palsy – and on a public stage no less. Others saw the grotesque gesturing as funny, entertaining, and inconsequential. Those who themselves would never overtly disparage individuals with disabilities often do not think about the ubiquity of casual ableist language, typically by those who are able-bodied and able-minded. I cringe when I hear casual use of “crazy,” “stupid,” “nut case,” “deaf,” “idiot,” “dumb,” “lame,” “ADHD,” “bipolar,” “OCD,” “coo coo for coco puffs,” “Duh,” “off one’s meds” and so many others. My visceral response is not an exercise in “political correctness,” but rather an effort at consciousness-raising and an invitation to hear and experience the world through someone else’s reality. News stories of suicides, police shootings, mass shootings and trucks driving into crowds have sparked conversations about mental illness and preventative measures despite there being no direct correlation between violence and mental

illness. Words like those listed above are voiced everywhere – in music (Beyoncé’s “Crazy In Love,” Khalid’s “Young, Dumb & Broke,” and Patsy Cline’s “Crazy”), television and movies (“The Nutty Professor” and “Dumb and Dumber”), Arizona’s “Stupid Motorist Law” and in everyday conversations. This use of words as an appropriation of another’s identity and lived experience as pejoratives is just as problematic as the once-popular “that’s so gay.” Despite the reality that nearly 1 in 5 Americans experiences disability, and although I always add ableist language to my workshops on privilege and bias and offer alternatives to ableist language, this effort to extend human dignity to one of the most underrepresented and violated groups among us seems an uphill battle. Labels are about identity, and one’s identity is neither a costume nor a punchline for a putdown or insult. Individuals with disabilities are one of the most discriminated against groups beyond race, gender, sexuality, and class. These go-to pejorative words dismiss people and their experiences, sustaining the foundation upon which those with disabilities meet discrimination and violence. Looking at how these words evolved from medical assessments further demonstrates how these words continue to deny

another’s humanity: “If you’re using a word as a synonym for something negative, then you are, by default, ascribing that negative connotation to the original meaning of the word” (“Let’s Talk about Ableism: What It Means, And Why Everyone Should Care”). A reporter on a local radio station, referencing the Alabama politician accused of pedophilia, casually joked that those who continue to support the politician must be taking “crazy pills.” This “clever” turn of phrase was popularized in the movie “Zoolander.” As one meme says, “Mental disorders are not adjectives,” and we simply must address “cute” magnets with words like “I hate being bipolar. It’s awesome!” or “Drink coffee. Do stupid things faster with more energy” or even the t-shirt that reads “My Wife is Hot (PSYCHOTIC).” All words matter! Rachel Cohen-Rottenberg, in “10 Questions about Why Ableist Language Matters, Answered,” makes clear why these words matter: “The stories that disability metaphors tell are deeply problematic, deeply destructive, and deeply resonant of the kinds of violence and oppression that disabled people have faced over the course of many centuries …. “If a culture’s language is full of pejorative metaphors about a group of people, that culture is not going to see those peo-

ple as fully entitled to the same housing, employment, medical care, education, access and inclusion as people in a more favored group.” There are so many resources available, but it takes thinking about and caring about these words and others’ experiences if anything is going to change. -Neal Lester

Resident thankful that ABM picked up after the city

I have been critical of our local homeowner's association, he Ahwatukee Board of Management. But it is time to give them a warm, public thank you. Months ago, the City of Phoenix arbitrarily and abruptly decided it could not afford to continue servicing the approximately 19 trash cans stationed around the Warner/ Elliott Loop. So, instead of the mitts for picking up dog droppings, they covered the cans with bags that said something to the effect, "Do not use." They were done. At the November ABM board meeting, your directors picked up the slack. For the good of the neighborhood, they voted to add the duty of picking up that garbage to ABM employees, for an increase in their pay. This morning I saw ABM employees hard at work and I, for one, am grateful. -Karin E. Gray

County can help you be prepared for most emergencies BY DENNY BARNEY AFN Guest Writer

n recent months, our country has endured a seemingly endless string of emergencies. We know Harvey, Irma, and Maria by name and we’ve seen the destruction left in their wake. We have heard about North Korea’s nuclear weapons testing and have mourned the deadliest shooting in modern U.S. history, one that targeted music lovers in a public square. We watch all of this unfold and sometimes wonder what we can do. In Maricopa County, the Department of Emergency Management (MCDEM) plans and practices year-round to ensure our county and municipal response agencies are prepared to respond to a variety of natural and man-made emergency situations. But there is nothing that can take the

place of personal readiness. Are you ready? Personal preparedness is as simple as having a plan, having a home emergency supply kit, or being ready to leave home with a “go” bag if needed. Talk with your family about a variety of emergency scenarios and come up with a plan. Take the time to identify exits in your home depending on the emergency. Come up with a meeting place should you be separated. Memorize the phone number of a relative in case you are unable to access your contacts on a cell phone. Have a go bag with the essentials ready for each family member (including one for pets!) in the event you have to leave your home at a moment’s notice. You’ll also want to have a home emergency kit including food, water, flashlight, etc. in the event you have to “shelter in place” or stay in your home during a power failure or other event. Check your go bag and emergency kit items periodically to make sure food has not expired, items are still functional and

clothing still fits. And be sure to review and test your emergency plan annually. You can visit ready.maricopa.gov for information on putting together a family plan and emergency kit, and to sign up for email updates. In May of 2017, the county conducted a survey to determine how prepared our community is for a disaster. Of the 4,700 that responded to the survey, 56 percent said they have family preparedness plans; 44 percent have “go bags” for times they would need to leave home quickly; and 32 percent, have emergency kits for when they would need to shelter at home. Maricopa County is fortunate to be low risk for natural disasters. However, MCDEM provides community-wide education and planning for the residents of Maricopa County in the event of a major emergency including wildfires, dust storms, flooding, hazardous materials, or acts of terrorism. During emergencies or disasters, the county provides notifications and updates to the public through

the Community Emergency Notification System (CENS). CENS is a system designed to rapidly notify an affected area of an emergency by sending a recorded message through the telephone system using the 911 database. Through CENS, the county is currently able to provide real-time notifications to just over 30,000 county residents; an increase of almost 5,000 subscribers since January 2017. Do you want to sign up? To receive emergency alerts on your cell phone, register it at ready.maricopa. gov. You can also receive preparedness and emergency updates from MCDEM’s social media sites on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Nextdoor. You never know when an emergency will happen. So be smart, be proactive, and be practiced. It’s good to be prepared. -Denny Barney is chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

BUSINESS

Business

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

@AhwatukeeFN |

@AhwatukeeFN

www.ahwatukee.com

Flooring of America owners made a lot of history I AFN News Staff

n a way, Dale and Rebecca Schnaible first floored each other, then started flooring people’s homes. He was a South Dakota native and sales rep for a tile distributor and she was in banking in Minnesota in the mid-’80s. “We met on a flight back from the Midwest,” Rebecca recalled. “We had a stop in Sioux Falls and he got on and sat beside me… and the rest is history.” “History” includes moving to Ahwatukee, having two sons and two daughters who grew up here and starting a Flooring of America store in Chandler that is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. “Dale had worked for a flooring distributor for many years but always wanted to start his own company,” Rebecca said. “When our youngest child started first grade, it seemed like a good idea for the two of us.” Though they had started on Arizona Avenue and Warner Road as a Color Tile store that became known for flooring, the Schnaibles relocated to 6909 W. Ray Road, much closer to their Ahwatukee home.

“There were a lot of challenges for me, having never been in the industry before,” she said. “But when we joined Flooring America, we began to meet a lot of others in the industry and Flooring America also gave us and our employees a lot of training.” Over 20 years, the couple has seen many changes in the industry. “To grow our business since the crash, we really had to do more than just flooring,” she said. “We needed to be a full remodel showroom. We added slab countertops about five years ago, and added cabinets late last year. Being part of the largest flooring cooperative, it gives us tremendous buying power to get our clients fantastic products at a great value.” And, she added, “being locally family owned and operated means that we can give our clients the best customer service.” “We carry every flooring material out there – carpet, cork, hardwood, laminate, LVT, sheet vinyl slab countertops and, of course, tile,” Rebecca said. While they have long installed flooring, backsplashes, fireplaces and showers, the Schnaibles also hired a certified kitchen/ bath designer.

Special to AFN)

Rebecca and Dale Schnaible of Ahwatukee, who own Flooring of America in Chandler, are celebrating 20 years in business together.

“We have five different cabinet companies we buy from as well as all the fixtures, sinks and lighting to go with the

design,” she said, noting the store also now has a paint line and Rubbermaid closet systems.

Ahwatukee meal delivery service strives for neighborhood feel AFN News Staff

on’t feel like cooking or going out to eat? Just call Cedric Robertson and Josh Benjamin. Their new business, MyTown2Go-Phoenix, will deliver you a meal from some 60 restaurants in and around Ahwatukee – including CK’s Tavern & Grill, Fresko Mediterranean Kitchen, Ezekiel’s, Early Baker, Frank and Lupes and Sand Bar Mexican Grill. And they just don’t bring dinner. They’ll deliver lunch and even breakfast as well. Eventually, they envision delivering flowers, groceries and possibly other commodities as well.

Their customer base, Benjamin said, is “anyone who’s hungry.” “Have you ever ordered a pizza, Chinese food or a sub? Pretty much everyone has done one of those at some point right. So, our typical customer is practically everyone. Only difference is there is now a world of food options to choose from than just pizza or that sandwich shop

everyone orders from out of sheer convenience,” he explained. Robinson, a Texas native who lives in Ahwatukee, and Benjamin, a Washington State native who lived in Ahwatukee until he moved recently to Gilbert, charge between $2.99 to $4.99 for a delivery. That covers the cost of the independent contractors in their delivery network as

well as a dispatcher. Having independent contractors enables them to maintain their goal of keeping the distance between restaurants and the customer as short as possible. “Our delivery distance from the restaurant to the delivery location – home, hotel or office – must be five to seven miles or less, depending on the restaurant,” Benjamin said. “We do this distance to keep quality of the food at its highest possible during delivery.” “Some of our competitors will deliver 10-plus miles,” he explained. “Sounds great in theory but it’s hard to believe the food stays at its freshest in the Arizona See

DELIVERY on page 37

BUSINESS

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

DELIVERY

from page 36

temps at those distances. We don't want to take the chance of delivering poor quality food.” Customers can plug into the business at mytown2go.com, where they can also download a free app for their iPhone or Android phone. Benjamin said they also can follow MyTown2Go-Phoenix on Facebook for specials. Restaurants looking to partner with the company can contact support@mytown2gophx.com. Both men have owned other businesses and Robertson still works full time at Orbital ATK. They bought the franchise and targeted Ahwatukee because they believe “we were looking for a new business to bring to the Ahwatukee market that people would appreciate and something that would make their lives more convenient,” Benjamin said, adding: “We saw a huge potential of what this type of service could become with the right people in place. And with our personal experience of orders being wrong, delivery times way above normal, drivers coming to our door in pajamas… really

opened the door for us on knowing we could bring another option of something a bit more special and with a bit more attention to detail with a higher level of quality to our local community on getting their food delivered. “At the end of the day, we are more than a business. We are a piece of the community in which we all support each other in one way or another,” he said. While focusing primarily on Ahwatukee and Chandler, they hope to expand throughout the East Valley. “The biggest challenge I would say we have faced and still face is making a name for ourselves,” Benjamin said. “With other much larger, more corporate delivery companies being around for several years now and practically cornering the market, it has given restaurants and customers very few options for their delivery needs.” Conceding they’re in a competitive industry, Benjamin said he and Robertson are banking on their desire to “strive on the neighborhood feel, supporting local businesses, providing excellent customer service and giving back to the community.” “We are part of this community, so we care about our reputation with our restau-

(Special to AFN)

Josh Benjamin, left, and Cedric Robertson show off the kind of temperature-control delivery bags used by their their Ahwatukee business, MyTown2Go-Phoenix.

rants and with our customers,” he added. “We can’t be successful without the support of all of them. Word of mouth is re-

ally how we are going to strive...just like a lot of local restaurants we all support in the area.”

Pets can get their picture with Santa in Ahwatukee AFN News Staff

iamond Cut Pet Spa in Ahwatukee is offering pet owners a chance to meet Santa. The spa, 4825 E. Warner Road, next to Basha’s, is charging $25 per family but giving a $10 discount for families who bring in a bag of pet food. The bags will benefit Lost Our Home Pet Rescue, a local nonprofit dedicated to rescuing abandoned animals and accepting owner surrenders when a family is in crisis and can no longer keep a pet. The sittings are 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m Saturday, Dec. 9. To schedule a sitting: 480-689-1261. All families will receive a photo CD or digital download of their images. Owner Malinda Malone said she opened Diamond Cut Pet Spa “to offer the ultimate in pet pampering, including aromatherapy baths, facial scrubs, “pawdicure” treatments, custom pet-safe hair dying, hot oil treatments and pet safety programming such as CPR classes and dog obedience training.” The spa is open Tuesday-Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Information: DiamondCutPetSpa.com.

(Special to AFN)

Diamond Cut Pet Spa in Ahwatukee is offering pet owners a chance to meet Santa.

FAITH

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Faith

@AhwatukeeFN |

@AhwatukeeFN

www.ahwatukee.com

SPIRITUAL SIDE

By loving the Earth, you can see God’s glory BY RABBI DEAN SHAPIRO AFN Guest Writer

y favorite place on Earth is Piha, New Zealand, just outside of Auckland. The cliff there plunges a hundred meters into the dark blue sea. Looking down, you cannot fathom what beasts live in that cold, deep water. Each wave makes and remakes the finest foam lace you’ve ever seen. In winter, mist rolls in and blankets the hillside. It will likely turn to rain as it moves east, and the creeks babble as they return the water to its home. In summer, the harakeke (flax) blossoms and tui birds dart to and fro, filling the air with their song. The sand on the beach is black, and glints in the

sunlight. I stand there and breathe deeply of the freshest air on the planet. I feel at once insignificant, and at the same time special, capable. My life feels full of possibility. “M’lo chol HaAretz k’vodo,” said the prophet Isaiah – “The whole world is filled with God’s glory” (6:3). Each and every bit of it, from mountain to mitochondria, is magnificent. Judaism embraces the concept of a wonderful, precious world. The Earth and all its inhabitants are understood to be God’s creation, and therefore both “good” and “very good.” I fear we have lost the sense of the wonder-full-ness of Earth. We take it for granted. Instead, we worship science, industry and individualism. Science tends to break things down into their smallest components.

Industry tends to destroy as it produces. Individualism tends to privilege the one over the many. We have turned the created world into raw material to be extracted, consumed and discarded. Removed from nature as we human beings are, we no longer see the wonder of it all, or feel ourselves to be part of the whole. If we could regain our sense of astonishment and at-one-ment with nature, our relationship with it might change. We’d see the forest instead of the lumber, and fall in love with the Earth once again. Who can but delight at an octopus or a chameleon changing colors? Who doesn’t grin when they bite into a perfectly sweet strawberry? Whose heart doesn’t flutter when they hear the wolf ’s cry? Whose love doesn’t deepen beneath a full moon?

We need to fall back in love with the Earth. One simple way to do this is to have more encounters with nature. What if we took a walk each week – perhaps through the desert, perhaps in a park – and made a point of noticing, really noticing, the natural world? See how the parts of a tree are connected, know when the saguaro blossoms, hear the coyote’s cry, feel a rock’s roughness, stand in the rain. Perhaps then we’d realize that the whole world is filled with God’s glory, and that we are the very ones to protect it. No one but us. — Rabbi Dean Shapiro is the spiritual leader of Temple Emanuel of Tempe. Contact him at rshapiro@emanueloftempe.org and visit his “Rabbi Dean Shapiro” page on Facebook.

FAITH CALENDAR

TUESDAY, DEC. 5

E. Liberty Lane. 480-460-1480 or email joel@horizonchurch.com.

Desert Foothills United Methodist Church offers a free ongoing support group called “Living Loss” for adults estranged from family members. Open to community. No registration required. DETAILS>>7-8 p.m. first Tuesdays, church at 2156 E. Liberty Lane, 480-460-1025 or office@desertfoothills.org

KIDS CAN LEARN JEWISH LIFE

Support for family estrangement

SUNDAYS

FOUNDATIONS OF OUR FAITH BIBLE STUDY

This biblical scripture study embraces a spirit-filled, intellectually honest, and refreshingly understandable exploration of God’s Word. Lessons will combine Christian and Jewish theology along with bible history, archaeology and linguistics for a rich learning experience. DETAILS>> 9:15 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org/classes.

BIBLE EXPLORED

This biblical scripture study embraces a spirit-filled, intellectually honest, and understandable exploration of God’s Word. Lessons will combine Christian and Jewish theology along with Bible history, archaeology and linguistics for a rich learning experience. DETAILS>> 9:15 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579, mvlutheran.org.

HORIZON SEEKS YOUNG PEOPLE

High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together. DETAILS>> 5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401

Children can learn and experience Jewish life. Chabad Hebrew School focuses on Jewish heritage, culture and holidays. DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. to noon, for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. 480-855-4333, info@chabadcenter.com, or chabadcenter.com.

SUNDAY CELEBRATION SERVICE

Inspirational messages and music to lift your spirit. A welcoming community committed to living from the heart. Many classes and events offered. We welcome you! DETAILS>> 10 a.m. Sundays at Unity of Tempe, 1222 E. Baseline Road, Suite 103, Tempe. Information: 480-7921800, unityoftempe.com.

FOUNDATIONS OF FAITH

The Foundations of Faith Bible study embraces a spirit-filled, intellectually honest, and refreshingly understandable exploration of God’s Word. Lessons will combine Christian and Jewish theology along with bible history, archaeology and linguistics for a rich learning experience. DETAILS>> 9:15 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

MONDAYS

JOIN CHRIST-CENTERED YOGA

This Flow 1-2 class (intermediate) is free and open to

the community. DETAILS>> 6-7 p.m., Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. Greg Battle at 480-759-6200 or gbattle@moutainpark.org.

CLASS TARGETS THE GRIEVING

Classes for those grieving over death or divorce. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 739 W. Erie St., Chandler. 480-963-4127.

GosBells

GosBells, Mountain View’s learning handbell choir, teaches you how to ring those bells in this group. Must be committed to rehearsals and performance/worship times. DETAILS>> 6:00 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

BELLS OF PRAISE

Bells of Praise is always looking for subs to help in our ringing schedule. If you are an experienced ringer, contact Leslie via the staff page on our website. DETAILS>> 7:00 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

TUESDAYS GRIEFSHARE

Mountain Park Community Church is offering an ongoing GriefShare programs to help people deal with the pain of losing a loved one.

See

CALENDAR on page 39

FAITH

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

CALENDAR

from page 38

DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m., 2408 E. Pecos Road, Ahwatukee. To register: mountainpark.org and click on Launch. Information: Alex at 480-759-6200

FINDING HEALING FOR PAIN

HOPE, an acronym for “Help Overcome Painful Experiences,” offers support for men and women who seek God’s grace and healing. DETAILS>> 6:30-8 p.m. Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. mountainpark.org.

SENIORS ENJOY TUESDAYS

The Terrific Tuesdays program is free and includes bagels and coffee and a different speaker or theme each week. Registration not needed. DETAILS>> 10-11 a.m., Barness Family East Valley Jewish Community Center, 908 N. Alma School Road, Chandler. evjcc.org or 480-897-0588.

WEDNESDAYS

JOYFUL NOIZ CHILDREN’S CHOIR

Upbeat children’s choir with music and a message that kids can get excited about. This choir usually sings monthly during our worship services and presents a Christmas Musical. DETAILS>> 5:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

CHIMING CHERUBS

This “ringing and singing” choir is perfect for the younger kids who love music and want to learn to ring the handbells and/or enjoy singing! Chiming Cherubs present occasionally during our worship services and special holidays throughout the school year.

DETAILS>> 5:45 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

THE GREATEST STORY: JESUS

Everybody loves a story. Join us as we read, hear, see, and discuss the Story of Jesus and how it connects with our lives. Each week highlights a captivating video from the amazing sand artist, Joe Castillo. Become part of the Story as it engages us, surprises us, and transforms us. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee.. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org/classes.

LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY

Study and examine the Scripture readings for the upcoming Sunday at a deeper level. This weekly class dissects the passages for the upcoming weekend, giving you time to study and understand the historical background. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org/classes.

CANTATA CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing, but can’t commit to the regular Sept. - May Sanctuary Choir schedule? Has it been a while since you’ve been part of a larger singing ensemble, and you’d like to try it out again for a few weeks? Be a part of the Cantata Choir that presents at Christmas on December 9/10! DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

SANCTUARY CHOIR

If you enjoy singing and want to play a role in worship, the Sanctuary Choir is your next step! This choir sings regularly at our 9:15am worship services and is a part

of our Cantata Choir that presents around Christmas and Easter. DETAILS>> 7:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwtaukee. 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org.

DETAILS>> 6:20 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th St., Ahwatukee. 480-893-2579. www.mvlutheran.org.

AWANA CLUBS MEET

Don’t go through one of life’s most difficult times alone. DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group that will walk alongside you and provide support through divorce or separation. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church. 11002 S. 48th Street, Phoenix. 480-893-2579. www.mvlutheran.org.

AWANA Children’s Clubs build lasting faith foundations for children, with games, Bible stories, learning God’s Word. DETAILS>> The clubs meet at Bridgeway Community Church, 2420 E. Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee, starting Sept. 6. 6-7:30 p.m. for kids 3 years old through sixth grade. Register at bridgewaycc.org or 480-706-4130.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY OFFERED

Living Word Ahwatukee women’s Bible study and fellowship that offers “a short, low-key time of praise and worship in music and message.” It’s also an opportunity to meet other Christian women in Ahwatukee. DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m., Living Word Ahwatukee, 14647 W. 50th St., Suite 165, Ahwatukee. Free child care.

THURSDAYS

SLEEPING BAGS FOR THE HOMELESS

Ugly Quilts has made more than 15,500 sleeping bags for the area homeless, and continues to do so at First United Methodist Church every Thursday. Quilters stitch donated fabric, comforters, sheets and blankets into sleeping bags. Those are then distributed to the Salvation Army, churches and veterans’ organizations. DETAILS>> 8 a.m.-2 p.m., 15 E. 1st Ave., Mesa. Information: 480-969-5577.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

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

DIVORCE CARE

KIDS CAN FIND SUPPORT

Support group for children ages 6 to 12 coping with a separation or divorce in the family. One-time $10 fee includes snacks and workbook. DETAILS>> 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1825 S. Alma School Road, Room C202, Chandler. Pastor Larry Daily, 480-963-3997, ext. 141, larrydaily@chandlercc.org or chandlercc.org.

FRIDAYS

NEFESHSOUL HOLDS SERVICES

Congregation NefeshSoul holds Shabbat services the second Friday of every month on the campus of the Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation. DETAILS>> 6:15 p.m., 6400 W. Del Rio St., Chandler. Information: nefeshsoul.org.

TOTS TAUGHT TORAH

Hosted by Chabad of the East Valley for children ages 2 to 5. Features hands-on activities about the Shabbat, songs, stories and crafts. Children will make and braid their own challah. DETAILS>> 10:15-11 a.m., members’ homes. 480-785-5831.

Submit your releases to pmaryniak@ahwatukee.com

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Light displays welcome holidays across the Valley BY CARSON MLNARIK Get Out Contributor

na State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix, lightsoftheworldus. com, 5 to 10 p.m. Nov. 16 to Jan. 2, $15$18 and kids under 3 free.

hoenix won’t exactly see a white Christmas, but there are plenty of opportunities to get into the holiday spirit with light displays. So, grab your loved ones, hot cider and a blanket and take to the road to check out the millions of lights keeping Phoenix aglow through the new year.

Railroad Park

For the first time, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park has expanded its family-friendly holiday light experience for five weeks of magic. Their light display features a special train ride through a winter wonderland and kids can stay for nightly visits with Santa starting on Dec. 8. The park’s Model Railroad Building will also be on display. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale, therailroadpark.com, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Dec. 1 to Jan. 7, train rides $5 and carousel rides $2.

Ahwatukee lights up

If you’re looking for Christmas lights and live in Ahwatukee, you have you don’t have to travel far. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of volunteers, a million lights adorn the cactuses and trees in the median of Chanlder Boulevard between Desert Foothills Parkway and 24th Street. Mesa Arizona Temple The volunteers picked up a tradition (Special to AFN) A little construction can’t stop the that onetime Ahwatukee homebuilder “Illumination: Symphony of Light” takes the whole family on a 25-minute ride through a mile of lights synchroMesa Arizona Temple’s annual colorDel Webb had started to lure home- nized to holiday classics over FM radio. ful light display. Hundreds of thoubuyers, then abandoned. sands of lights, flower gardens and this one! Take the whole family on a 25-min- The ride culminates at Holiday Boulevard, a nativity scene are all a part of the free ute ride through a mile of lights synchro- a winter play land featuring a walk-through Illumination: Symphony of Light event. Visitors can also catch Christmas conYou don’t have to get out of the car for nized to holiday classics over FM radio. ornament, food trucks and a giant snowman. cert performances each night in December Ticket price admits an entire car, with an adthrough Christmas. ditional $10 price for the walk-up activities. Mesa Arizona Temple, 525 E. Main Street, Illumination, 27701 N. Black Canyon HighMesa, mesachristmaslights.com, 5 to 10 p.m. way, Phoenix, illuminationaz.com, 6 p.m. Nov. 24 to Dec. 31, free. Nov. 15 to Jan. 14, $29.50-$32.

Festival of the Arts returns to Tempe

Las Noches de Las Luminarias

Warm up this holiday season with a stroll through luminaria-lit desert gardens. With more than 8,000 bags and thousands of white lights, you’ve never seen a cactus look so beautiful. Each night features unique entertainment ensembles, including hand bell and country music performers, as well as buffet and restaurant options. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, dbg.org, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Nov. 24 to Dec. 30, $12.50-$30.

Lights of the World Lantern Festival

(Special AFN)

Artists, entertainers and food trucks are coming back to Tempe for the 49th Festival of the Arts. The event will run from Friday, Dec. 1, to Sunday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. As many as 225,000 attendees from across the nation are expected to greet over 350 peer-juried, handpicked artists and artisans from around the country. Food trucks, two local beer and wine gardens, and live music are in the mix, too. Details and schedules: tempefestivalofthearts.com.

The Arizona State Fairgrounds gets a makeover when it’s taken over by traditional Chinese lanterns. This festival melds the classic lanterns, which range from 18 to 60 feet high, with cutting-edge technology. Featuring 11 different exhibits, this magical marriage of culture and light is one of the largest shows in the country. It also houses carnival rides and games. Lights of the World Lantern Festival, Arizo-

Phoenix ZooLights

The Phoenix Zoo glimmers each night from Nov. 22 to Jan. 14 when millions of lights are switched on. While your favorite animals are sleeping, their glowing counterparts come alive alongside carousel and camel rides, photos with Santa and a nightly snowfall at 7 p.m. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, phoenixzoo.org, 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Nov. 22 to Jan. 14, tickets start at $12.95.

Glendale Glitters

Downtown Glendale glitters with the power of 1.5 million lights each holiday season. The largest free light display in Arizona is great, but make sure to reserve time to browse downtown’s offerings of mom-andpop restaurants, coffee and unique shops. Each weekend features food trucks, a petting zoo and visits with Santa. Historic Downtown Glendale, 5835 W. Palmaire Avenue, Glendale, glendaleaz. com/glitters, 6 to 10 p.m. Nov. 24 to Jan. 6, free.

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Final bow coming for four ‘Nutcracker’ queens

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA Get Out Contributor

our queens will dance in their last Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet in mid-December. The four Ahwatukee residents are high school seniors preparing for college. The ballerina quartet has been a part of this sparkling ballet for many years, making this last production a bittersweet experience. They also performed a preview at last Saturday’s Festival of Lights Kick-Off Party. Desert Vista High School senior Morgan Zittel is the Angel Queen this year. She was 11 when she played a lead doll in the Nutcracker party scene. But in the ensuing years, she has performed in many more roles. “My past roles include lead doll, lead angel, China Queen, Angel Queen, Snow ballet Corps, Waltz Corps, fight scene, Arabian Corps, Marzipan Corps and Spanish Ballet Corps,” she counted down. “My favorite roll would probably be China Doll because I love how energetic the song and dance are, and the hot pink tutu is beautiful.” Morgan, 17, said her main focus is dance. In addition to dancing at Studio 111, she dedicates her spare time to extracurricular dance activities as a member of the Desert Vista

High Dance Company and varsity dance line. The only daughter of Richard and Stacey Zittel, she has both an older and younger brother. She said her options for college include Vanderbilt, Duke and ASU, and plans to major in biomedical sciences. Madi Nash, another Desert Vista High senior, also is performing for the last time in this year’s Ahwatukee Foothill’s Nutcracker Ballet, onstage at the Desert Vista Fine Arts Theatre for three shows on Dec. 16 and 17. Now 17, Madi’s first role was when she was asked, sans audition, to be a March Girl at age 9. The following year, her first audition, she was cast as Clara’s Best Friend, among other roles as the dancers often perform various parts in several scenes. She said though she’s played many roles since joining the cast, her favorite was as Snow Queen, and then the Mouse King two seasons ago. Like Morgan, dance is paramount in Madi’s free time; she performs on two Desert Vista High dance teams in addition to being on the Dance Studio 111 Elite Team, for which she is captain. She’s also captain of her school’s Elite Dance Company. “The Desert Vista Elite Dance Company practices for an hour every day the first hour See

NUTCRACKER on page 42

(Special to AFN)

Four Ahwatukee high school seniors will be taking their final bows in the Ahwatukee Nutcracker next month. They include, from left: Madi Nash as Spanish Queen, Olivia Nash as Butterfly Queen, Jordan Torgerson as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Morgan Zittel as the Angel Queen.

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NUTCRACKER

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

from page 41

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of school. The DVHS Varsity Dance Line practices for two hours twice weekly. The Dance Studio 111 team has practice for four to five hours a week, plus, being in the Nutcracker, I practice every Saturday. I’m a busy person but manage my time wisely,” said Madi, the daughter of Dave and Tammy Nash. Her sister Ally, a year and a half younger, is this year’s Russian Queen in the production. Madi is yet undecided on which state school she’ll attend, but she is considering those that have “great dance teams.” Desert Vista High senior Olivia Gregg, daughter of James and Linda Gregg, is part of a dance dynasty. She and younger sister Bella are constants on the local Nutcracker stage. Olivia was just three when she started dance lessons with Kimberly Lewis Dance Studio, renamed Dance Studio 111 after relocating seven years ago. For her final year, Olivia dances as the Butterfly Queen while Bella performs as the Arabian Queen and Snow Princess. “I’m so honored to be dancing the role of the Butterfly Queen again this year. It’s a role that I truly love, and I danced the part originally when I was just 11. I can’t wait to perform,” exclaimed Olivia, 17. “The most exciting thing about dancing in this year’s Nutcracker is that I get to watch some of the younger children that I’ve danced with for years now dancing en

pointe in lead roles.” Olivia is active in dance at Desert Vista and captain of the Varsity Dance line for the third year, and, with Madi, co-captain of the school’s Senior Elite Dance Company. Her goal is to dance competitively at college, either at the University of Arizona or Arizona State while pursuing a degree in physiology. Jordan Torgerson, 17, is this year’s Sugar Plum Fairy, and is marking her 11th consecutive year in the cast. The senior at the Arizona School for the Arts in downtown Phoenix started as a 6-year-old, dancing in the roles of March Girl and Angel. “I’ve always wanted to be Sugar Plum, and I absolutely love the role,” said Jordan, the daughter of Eric and Kim Torgerson. “My favorite role so far was the Snow Queen in 2-15. I’ve always loved the snow scene, and the queen role was magical. This is my eighth year in the snow scene.” The snow scene she describes has become the stuff of local legend, an awe-inspiring stage moment when snow machines rain down ‘real snow’ on the actors and dancers. The snow in the desert invariably gets a response from the theater goers, whether during the 2 p.m. matinees when they are encouraged to come on stage and play in the snow or chat with Santa after the performance, or the Saturday night 7 p.m. show, when the snow scene is reenacted. Like her fellow queens, balancing dance and school is an art, but she says somewhat easier as her school provides academic classes in the morning, and dance classes

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each afternoon. “I also take ballet and contemporary classes at Dance Studio 111. In total I train for about 14 hours a week, not including Nutcracker rehearsals. My school is a college prep school, so the workload is a lot and I have to manage my time between school and dance,” said Jordan, who plans to attend the University of Arizona, majoring in dance and biochemistry. Dance Studio 111 owner Kimberly Lewis said seeing these four girls perform in their last Nutcracker is bit(Special to AFN) tersweet. “I have known Jordan Torgenson, seen here in her first Ahwatukee Nutcracker role 11 these special, talent- years ago, will take a final bow in the venerable community production next month. ed young ladies since they were little girls and came to their first dance class. I have ter-ballet appearance of Santa Clause, and loved watching them grow into the lovely allows for photos with him and the cast, and is typically a sold-out show. young women they are,” said Lewis. To purchase tickets, it is suggested they The 18th Annual Ahwatukee Foothills Nutcracker Ballet is at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 16 be purchased in person at Dance Studio 111, 4910 E. Chandler Blvd. Information: 480-706and 2 p.m. Dec. 17. The Saturday matinee includes an af- 6040 or email afnutcracker@gmail.com

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NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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The Trans-Siberian Orchestra presents “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More.”

TSO’s holiday tour honors its late producer’s life

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GetOut Editor

hen Trans-Siberian Orchestra mastermind Paul O’Neill died unexpectedly at age 61, his musical partner, Al Pitrelli, was understandably heartbroken. But Pitrelli, O’Neill’s writing partner Jon Oliva and the late producer’s family are steadfast about carrying on TSO’s legacy. “For Paul and his wife, Desiree, this was their child that they gave birth to years and years and years ago,” said Pitrelli, who adds the couple has a daughter, Ireland, as well. “It’s so nice to know that the family is going to carry on the legacy. I’m just glad to be part of it. Whatever they want to do, we’re good with.” This holiday season, TSO is continuing its “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” tour, which includes 3:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. shows on Sunday, Dec. 3, at Gila River Arena in Glendale. The show will also be without bassist David Zablidowsky, who, as David Z, was the bassist for TSO and Adrenaline Mob. He was killed during a vehicle crash earlier this year while touring with Adrenaline Mob. The 2017 Tour is an updated presentation of TSO’s “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More.” “We always try to change the front of the show and the back of the show,” he said. “The rock opera portion will remain the same. The look of the stage will be different – the lighting, the pyro, the lasers, the moving trusses, the video content. “We’ll always try to upgrade that from year to year because we never really want to repeat ourselves. We do want to have the familiarity of the rock opera that the people have really fallen in love with.”

In addition, the show will introduce people to material TSO hasn’t performed in a few years during the hour it has to explore the catalog. Pitrelli adds the performance will not specifically address O’Neill’s death. Instead, the tour as a whole is a tribute to him. “From my heart, right now, I think that every note that I play on the guitar, every note that’s sung by the singers, how it’s presented by the production staff, by his family, I think that everybody knows that everything is a tribute to Paul.” Pitrelli compares the loss to his first Thanksgiving dinner after his father died. It felt like someone or something was missing, but the family carried on and celebrated his dad’s life. Similarly, he will honor O’Neill’s career. “Listen, life throws you curve balls sometimes,” he said. “Bad things happen. In one phone call, everything can get turned upside down. “I won’t insult the situation by using typical clichés and I don’t think anybody wants to hear that. If anybody’s ever gone through any kind of loss, it’s kind of answering the question on your own. There will be an empty hole in everybody’s heart for the rest of our lives, but life will continue to go on. I’ll miss him forever, as everybody who knew him and loved him will.”

IF YOU GO

What: Trans-Siberian Orchestra Where: Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale When: 3:30 and 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 Cost: Tickets start at $37.50 Info: 800-745-3000, gilariverarena.com

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5-ingredient dumpling soup is good for the tummy BY JAN D’ATRI AFN Contributor

ou’re probably still giving your tummy a rest after the big Thanksgiving meal of turkey, sides and pumpkin pie. So, do yourself – and your tummy – a big favor by making a simple and soothing soup. It goes down so easy, and with just a few

Five Ingredient Dumpling Drop Soup Ingredients: 3 eggs 3/4 cup flour

Directions:

ingredients, in no time at all you’ll have a new favorite meal to share with your family. This tummy-warming dumpling drop soup is the perfect example of turning a little flour and a few eggs into magical dumplings bobbing in chicken broth. It has become a favorite in our family. The kids can make it as easily as the adults, and is a great reminder that simple can often be sensational!

1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon water 2 quarts of chicken broth

In a bowl, beat eggs by hand. Add in 3/4 cup flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Vigorously mix the ingredients by hand until there are no lumps. Add 1 tablespoon water and mix. Bring to boil 2 quarts of chicken broth. Holding the bowl at an angle over the broth, scoop 1 teaspoon mix at a time and drop in broth until all the batter is gone. Simmer 30 minutes. Enjoy with hard crusted bread. Technique #1: Drop the dumplings into the soup by taking a small spoon, dip it in the hot broth, then scoop out a spoonful of batter and put the spoon back into the broth so the batter drops into the soup. This creates a gnocchi-like dumpling. Technique #2: The kids in my family love to take more of the Spatzle approach by dipping the spoon into the batter and then drizzling the batter over the hot broth to create long strips of dumpling. Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/recipes/one-minute-kitchen.

ACROSS 1 PC alternative 4 Like omelettes or quiche 8 Secondhand 12 Have bills 13 Color quality 14 “The Thin Man” heroine 15 Hotel personnel 17 Cole Porter’s “Let’s --” 18 Willingly 19 From then on 20 Jousting garb 22 Hunk of soap 24 Slender 25 Starving 29 Encountered 30 Bullwinkle’s foe 31 Greek vowel 32 Ran through, in a sense 34 Unclear image 35 Black 36 Exhausted 37 Fragment 40 Mediocre 41 Actress Gilpin 42 Noble 46 “-- go bragh!” 47 Sandwich treat 48 Science room 49 Rugged rock 50 Salamander 51 List-condensing abbr.

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DOWN 1 Horde 2 Shock and -3 Pen pal? 4 Old number? 5 Blunder 6 Economist’s stat 7 “Of course” 8 Victoria’s Secret wares 9 Any time now 10 Idle or Clapton 11 Social engagement 16 Friend of Dorothy 19 Vail gear 20 Charitable donations 21 Stench 22 Mariah or Drew 23 In the thick of 25 Place setting component 26 Squalid site 27 Needle holder 28 “Phooey” 30 Flex 33 Electrician’s job 34 Spill the beans 36 Apportion 37 Blueprint detail 38 Frau’s mate

PUZZLE ANSWERS on page 23

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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Despite semi-final loss, the Pride should be proud BY GREG MACAFEE AFN Sports Editor

ountain Pointe High School missed a ticket to the big dance this Saturday in Tucson, where two Chandler Unified School District high school football teams will be vying for the Division 6A state title, but head coach Norris Vaughan is upbeat. “I’m proud of everything these guys accomplished this season,” Vaughan said. “They should be proud.” The Pride should be proud, having turned in a great season and only falling twice through the regular season – first at the hands of one of the top teams in California and later in a hard-fought battle against the Desert Ridge Jaguars. The team sustained numerous key injuries throughout the year, including one to star defensive lineman Matthew Pola-Mao. Mountain Pointe’s football season – and its quest for a second straight appearance in the 6A State championship – came to an end Nov. 17 when the Pride fell to the No. 4-seeded Perry Pumas 56-31 in the state semi-finals. Perry will now play Chandler High for the title. At the end of the season, Mountain Pointe still earned the No. 1-seed in the playoffs. Vaughan and his team got there by utilizing a stable of running backs and putting one of the best defenses in the state on the field every Friday night. Their first four games of 2017 were considered somewhat of a gauntlet: a rematch with the defending state champs, a national opponent, and a matchup with one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the country. The team started off the season with a big 46-6 win over Sandra Day O’Connor before heading to the UA Brothers in Arms Classic in Mission Viejo, California, where they were pitted against the Chaminade Eagles – a team now ranked in the top 10 in its state. Knowing it would be a tough battle going in, the Pride put up a fight but fell 36-24. Then they rebounded, and snapped off a five-game winning streak. They took down a depleted Chandler squad in a 2421 nail-biter that showcased the defensive

half, the Pride came storming back to escape with its fifth straight win. When Mountain Pointe was set to defend its home turf for a second straight week, head coach Jeremy Hathcock and the Desert Ridge Jaguars weren’t going to let them off the hook. Even though the Pride picked off four passes in the game, the Jaguars handed them their first loss at Karl Kiefer stadium since 2011. The Jaguars stacked the box, filling all the running lanes and forced the Pride to show they could (Cheryl Haselhorst/AFN Contributor) throw the ball. Pride Quarterback Nick Wallerstedt breaks free of a tackle to score the Pride’s A team that third touchdown. produced 3,801 prowess and running ability of the Pride. rushing yards and averaged 292 rushing Then they blew out Mountain View yards per game was held to only 190 be35-3 and contained Oklahoma commit tween five players. Not one player rushed Spencer Rattler enough to squeak out a for over 100 yards. While the loss was an eye-opener, the win and extend their win streak to three. Their fourth straight win came in the Pride rebounded and ended the seaTukee Bowl when they traveled to Des- son with two straight wins. Due to the ert Vista High School and defeated the strength of their schedule throughout the Thunder for the second consecutive year season, Mountain Pointe captured the and to break the 10-10 tie in their two-de- No. 1-seed. Of their 10 regular season games, five cade rivalry. When the Highland Hawks came to teams ended up earning playoff berths, Karl Kiefer stadium, though, things start- four of which were in the top 10. Two ed to get a little rocky for the Pride. Via other teams were left out of the playoffs three first half turnovers, the Hawks took because of the regional winners that were an early 13-0 lead. But behind a two-score ranked below them. The Pride then cruised through the first effort from Delano Salgado in the second

two-rounds of the playoffs, blowing out their opponents by a combined score of 109 – 7, which included a 44-7 victory over a Highland team. With a second-straight trip to the state championship on the line, Vaughan said his players might have run into one of the best quarterbacks they have seen all season. That quarterback was Perry’s 6-foot-1, 197-pound quarterback Brock Purdy, who threw for 397 yards and four touchdowns against a Mountain Pointe Pride defense that had been stout all season long. Along with the air attack, running back Kenny Fultz ran for 95 yards and three touchdowns to put the nail in the coffin. “I think (he’s) as good as we’ve seen all season,” Vaughan said. “He’s magical back there, he’s a phenomenal quarterback.” The good news for the Pride, is they won’t have to see Purdy in the future. The bad news, though, is that Mountain Pointe will graduate 27 seniors at the end of the school year. That means Vaughan will have to find a way to replace several key players, including a majority of his secondary in Kenny Churchwell, Delano Salgado, and Marshawn Gibson, who led the team with eight interceptions this season. Other key seniors include Shomari Hayes, Jacob Olsen, and Tyre Johnson. While Vaughan will lose several key defensive players. Pola-mao will be back next season, along with quarterback Nick Wallerstedt – who came into his own late in the season throwing for 170 yards against Perry, and leading rusher Jakim McKinney. McKinney was a key clog in the Mountain Pointe offense this year and formed one of the better rushing duo’s in the state with senior Gary Bragg. While they both rushed for over 1,000 yards his season – Bragg with 1,021 and McKinney with 1,334 – the junior back found the end zone 18 times this season for the Pride and should have a bright future in the backfield with Wallerstedt next season. But whether Vaughan will be able to replace his stout defense from 2017 is a question only time will answer.

SPORTS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

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Horizon volleyball standout signs with Houston Baptist BY GREG MACAFEE AFN Sports Editor

orizon Honors senior Cici Collins has signed her letter of intent to play volleyball at Houston Baptist University, a Division I college in Houston, Texas. “I‘ve been committed for a while so it feels a lot more official and it just reminds me that I’ll be leaving soon, so it’s exciting,” Collins said. See

VOLLEYBALL on page 47

(Special to AFN)

Horizon High senior Cici Collins has committed to Houston Baptist University.

Horizon reigns in soccer

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Members of the Horizon Honors soccer team include, from left: Back row: Noah Molinar, Palmer Lindsey, Alex Lombardi, GK Gabe Daniel, Conner Tinsley, Heath Leonard, Chiraag Sachdev, Grayson Armstrong, Rylan Travis, Pradyoth Velagapudi and assistant coaches Naomi Sanders and Ryan Holguin. Middle row: Neil Ravikumar, Mariano Sorrentino, Braedon Hyatt, Christian Ivanov, John Anawalt, Max Larsen and Dan Stedman. Front row: Jaidan Leonard. AFN News Staff

hree times is not only a charm but a habit for the Horizon Honors soccer team. The team recently won its third consecutive title in the Valley Christian Schools Big School Division League Soccer Championship. Led by Coach Susan Sorel with student assistant coaches Naomi Sanders, a junior at the school, and senior Ryan Holguin. The team comprises seventh and eighth graders, This year there was only one female. The team’s record this year was 9-1-1; in 2016 and 2015, it was 10-1 – meaning they’ve only lost three games in three years.

In the semifinals, the team beat Fountain Hills 2-0 with Heath Leonard scoring 1 and Dan Stedman scoring 1. The team won the championship by beating Gilbert Christian 4-2 with Heath Leonard scoring 3 and Alex Lombardi scoring 1 Most of the students are from Ahwatukee but a few of the students come from surrounding cities, including Chandler and Tempe Other team members include Noah Molinar, Palmer Lindsey, GK Gabe Daniel, Conner Tinsley, Chiraag Sachdev, Grayson Armstrong, Rylan Travis, Pradyoth Velagapudi, Neil Ravikumar, Mariano Sorrentino, Braedon Hyatt, Christian Ivanov, John Anawalt, Max Larsen and Jaidan Leonard.

SPORTS

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

While the future Huskie, looked at a bunch of different colleges in both the Carolina’s and Texas, she has a little bit of a connection to the state of Texas. Her grandma, aunts and uncles and both her parents went to Texas Christian University. After looking at schools in the area, she said Houston Baptist felt like home. But the message that the coach passed on to her factored in as well. “He was the only coach in my recruiting process that told me to take my time and think about it because they were not rushing me,” Collins said. The 5-foot-9 outside hitter is coming off a historic season for the Eagles in which she set a single-season record for most kills in a season with 360, and led Horizon Honors to a state quarterfinal appearance before falling to Tempe Prep. After Collins transferred from Valley Christian last year, Eagles coach Kris Maglunog said, she was a huge addition to a team that lost five senior starters from a state championship team. “She came in with a lot of experience at a high level,” Maglunog said. “I mean we had maybe three or four returners, but they haven’t had the experience that

(Special to AFN)

The Ahwatukee YMCA 7/8th Competitive Junior Suns Division 1 team brought home the Valleywide YMCA Championship basketball title after defeating the Scottsdale YMCA team. Pictured are, from left: Joe Wilson, Luke Lynch, Austin Wallace, Brandon Trilli, Tyler Sumetz, Musashi Hull, Ian Ramirez, Jyles Watson, Team Manager Shaun Davis, Will Coates, Hayden Engel, Drew Gilbert and Coach John Ramirez. Not pictured: Andrew Kinchion.

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kinesiology and health and wellness so that she can be a personal trainer and double in the dietician area as well. The Houston Baptist Huskies are currently 20-9 in 2017 with an 11-5 conference record.

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from page 46

she first transferred to our school, that’s when I met her, and she started training with us and coming out in the offseason.” As being fit and active are important to Collins, she plans to major in sports

Growing More Smiles!

VOLLEYBALL

she has had at that level particularly. So, she came in with a lot of experience and we depended on her on offense and to make some hustle plays on defense. That helped us be successful this year.” While Collins was a strength on the offensive attack for the Eagles, she was also a key contributor on defense, racking up 241 digs in her senior season. When Collins moves on to the collegiate level, she said she will be playing the libero position. The libero position is a defensive specialist position and they are not limited by the regular rules of rotation throughout the match. During her sophomore year, Collins said she was recruited to play the libero position. Since she first started playing volleyball at eight years old, Collins said she always knew that she wanted to play at the collegiate level, and she set a goal to accomplish that dream. “I’ve reached it, so it felt really good to reach it finally,” Collins said. Seeing as she played the outside hitter position with the Eagles, Collins will have to somewhat change her style of play. But, Maglunog believes that she has the talent and the work ethic to do so. “She’s one of the hardest workers that I have seen,” Maglunog said. “From when

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SPORTS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Desert Vista cross-country boys score an Arizona first BY GREG MACAFEE AFN Sports Editor

or the first time in the history of the Nike Cross Country National Meet, a high school boys team from Arizona will compete with the best high school runners from across the country – and that high school is Desert Vista. After finishing fourth at the Nike Cross Country Southwest Regional, the fate of the Desert Vista High School cross-country team was out of its hands. The team needed to place in the top two to automatically qualify for the national meet Saturday, Dec. 2 at Glenoveer Golf Course in Portland, Oregon. “Unfortunately, it was not a time of confidence,” senior Reece Donihi, who finished 27th in the regional qualifier said. “To put it bluntly, we had an off day. We knew the bid would be very close be we were never certain that we would get the last at-large bid.” Donihi was the first Thunder runner across the line at 15:27 and Habtamu Cheney came across the line at 15:30, two impressive times. Bryce Schmisseur came in 59th with a clocking of 15:49 and Nick

time state champions to the big dance in Portland. Desert Vista is one of 22 seven individual teams to race in the event, along with 45 individual runners who will compete in Portland. The Thunder couldn’t be more excited. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the boys know that, and we’re gonna take advantage of that,” Hanson said. “Seeing one of my dreams realized is by far the greatest feeling I have ever experienced,” Reece Donihi said. Cross-country is one of the only high school sports that truly has a national (Mark Schmisseur/AFN Contributor) champion. It pits the top 22 teams in the Bryce Schmisseur (#1927) was the third Desert Vista High runner to cross the line and become 59th country against each other, in one race, to overall as the Thunder qualified for the Nike Cross Country National Meet after earning an at-large decide who is the best. bid into the race. The Desert Vista runners are feeling at Hanson said. “So, we tried to keep our the top of their game as they are set to face Thatcher finished with a time of 16:06. Aksel Laudon and sophomore Sammy heads up and be positive about it and keep off against those top teams. Van Alstine finished in 103rd and 104th our heads up but it wasn’t easy.” “We really feel like knowing how we Knowing they didn’t turn in their best ran at regionals, not our best per se, is also with the same exact time of 16:07. Dangelo Piasceki was the last Thunder runner performance at the regional qualifier, inspiring,” Hanson said. “We get an opHanson said the runners turned in one of portunity to learn from it and grow from across the line with a clocking of 16:21. “Knowing we were fourth, we knew we the best weeks of training they have had it and not everyone gets a chance to do still had a chance. We knew that those this year. that. So, that’s how we have trained and it The hard work and dedication paid off: showed and the bottom line is these guys chances were slimmer than getting third, though,” Desert Vista Head Coach Chris Hanson received the call inviting the four- are hungrier than ever.”

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Employment General Landscape laborers, 18 temporary full-time positions. Duties: Laborers will be needed for turf care, pruning, fertilization, irrigation system maintenance and repair, general clean up and installation or mortarless segmental concrete masonry wall units. 3 months landscape EXP REQ. No EDU REQ. Days & Hours: 40 hours/week (6:00am2:30pm); day shift; Mon-Fri, may include wknd/hol. Dates of employment: 02/01/1811/30/18. Wage: $12.49/h, OT $18.74 /h if necessary. Raises, bonuses, or incentives dependent on job performance. OJT provided. Assurances: Transportation (including meals and, to the extent necessary, lodging) to the place of employment will be provided, or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation will be provided if the worker completes the employment period or is dismissed early by the employer. Employer will provide workers at no charge all tools, equipment and supplies required to perform the job. Job location: Phoenix, AZ - Maricopa and Pinal counties. Daily transportation provided to and from worksite. Applicants may send or contact the AZDES Office, 4635 S Central Ave, Phoenix AZ, 85040. Kam Weaver ph: 602-542-2484. Please reference AZDES Job Order #: 2852816. Employer: Gothic Grounds Management, Inc. 4235 E Winslow Ave Phoenix AZ 85040. Contact: Trevor Howard, fax (602) 305-3690.

Back to Nature Landcare Inc 1354 S 39th Ave, Phx, AZ 85009 seeks 10 “temporary full-time” Landscape Laborers to work&reside in Phx Metropolitan area to landscape, use hand/pwr tools/equip, install sprinkler systms. Bend, lift&hold up 50Lb 3mo exp work in ext weather, on job train avail, no edu reqd, travel in Phx Metroplex area M-F 6am-2pm 40hr/wk @$ 12.49/hr if needed OT @$18.74 from 1/2910/29/18. US&H2B workers offered same wages& working conditions to include paid posthired drug test Sgle wrkwk computes wages Weekly pmt. H-2B Wrkr to be paid U.S. Consulate, border, lodging fees on 1st workwk on a company check. “Transportation (including meals & to the extent necessary lodging) to place of employment or its cost to workers reimbursed, if the worker completes half the employment period. Return transportation provided if the worker completes employment period or is dismissed early by employer. Tools provided at no charge to worker”. Apply in person at nearest SWA, call 602.542.2484, fax res 602.256.1366 A t t n K a m W e a v e r o r f a x r e s t o e m p lr 602.926.8201 Attn Amanda Zima RE: JP 2848469 Nursery workers, 65 temporary full-time positions.

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Paint Interior & Exterior • Drywall Repair Light Carpentry • Power Washing • Textures Matched Popcorn Removal • Pool Deck Coatings Garage Floor Coatings • Color Consulting

10% OFF

ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®

Not a licensed contractor

Summer AC Tune Up - $59

We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality Free Estimates! Home of the 10-Year Warranty!

480-688-4770

www.eastvalleypainters.com Now Accepting all major credit cards

The best and brightest professionals visit our site everyday. Access this targeted and qualified pool of talent by advertising your jobs on our Job Board!

Anything Plumbing Same Day Service Water Heaters

Bonded/Insured • ROC#153131

Plumbing & Rooter Service

100% Guarantee Any Service on Our Work

The Valley’s Premier Painters

Family Owned & Operated

Plumbing

If someone Needs a Job, They Look Everyday!

Plumbing

1174

POST A

The East Valley Tribune’s Job Board has the talent you’re looking for.

JOB SEE

KERS

Find the best talent HERE.

JOB

Easily POST jobs. Competitive pricing and exposure

FIND A JO

Post your jobs at: jobs.eastvalleytribune.com Contact us for more information:

480-898-6465

or email jobs@eastvalleytribune.com

J BS. EASTVALLEY TRIBUNE.COM

Most jobs also appear on Indeed.com

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

Pool Service / Repair

Plumbing

Same Day Service Guaranteed 24/7 FREE Service Call with Repairs

10% OFF any total work performed ANYTHING PLUMBING • Water heaters • Leaks • Garbage disposal • Bathrooms

minutemanhomeservices.com ROC 242804, 257474, 290005 APS/SRP Certified Contractor BBB A+ • Licensed, bonded, and fully insured for your protection.

$25 OFF

Filter Cleaning! Monthly Service & Repairs Available

602-546-POOL 7 6 6 5

www.barefootpoolman.com See our Before’s and After’s on Facebook Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC# 272001

Code T03

For a limited time

Call Now!

Ahw Resident • Owner Operated Maintenance & Repair Professional and Superior Service

We maintain, repair and service all types of pools, equipment, filters, cleaning systems, fresh water and salt water systems

Call me, Howard:

480.231.9651

AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member Not a licensed contractor.

JuanPavers Hernandez • Concrete Water Features • Sprinkler Repair

P O O L R E PA I R

P O O L S E RV I C E S

480-755-5818

Roofing

1st Month of Service FREE

Minuteman Home Services

PLUMBING

Pool Service / Repair

Pebble cracking, Plaster peeling, Rebar showing, Pool Light out?

I CAN HELP!

We have the Jobs!! Post your Resume! Accounting Sales Retail Maintenance Finance Construction Drivers Admin Laborers We have it all!

25 Years Experience • Dependable & Reliable

Call Juan at

480-720-3840 Not a licensed contractor.

CLR Pool Service LLC SERVICE AND REPAIR Excellent Service... First time, Every time! Charles Rock - Ahwatukee Resident

480.399.ROCK (7625)

charles@clrpoolservice.com

www.clrpoolservice.com

CLASSIFIEDS 480-898-6465 class@times publications.com

Roofing

Plumbing

PLUMBING $35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!

A+ RATED

We Repair or Install ROC # 272721

AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured

704.5422

(480)

Meetings/Events

Bosom Buddies, Ahwatukee/Chandler nonprofit, breast cancer, support group, meets 10am-12 Noon on the 2nd Saturday of the month. Meetings are held every month at Desert Cove, located at 1750 W Frye Rd., Chandler 85224. This is just north (across the street) from the Chandler Regional Hospital. For more info, call Benji Tucker at 602-739-8822.

NONDENOMINATIONAL, GREAT PRAISE AND WORSHIP, GREAT MESSAGES FOR TODAYS LIVING! OUR MISSION IS “EVANGELISM, HEALING, DISCIPLESHIP, THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD!

VISIT US AT ValorCC.com.

Christian Business Networking, Chandler BiMonthly Chapter 7:30 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays of the month Offers members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and business referrals. Chandler Christian Church, Room B202 1825 S. Alma School Rd., Chandler Info: Maia, 480-4250624, christianbusinessnetworking.com Beta Sigma Phi, a woman's cultural and social organization, is looking to reconnect with non-active members in the East Valley. New members are also welcome. Beta Sigma Phi is a non-college sorority, which offers "sisterhood" and "friendship" to women of all ages. You can never underestimate the importance of other women in your life. Contact: Gail Sacco at gailsacco@q.com

CLASSIFIEDS

NOVEMBER 29, 2017 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Roofing

Meetings/Events

ROOFING CONTRACTOR with 44 years exp Specializing in all types repairs, re-roofs, coating & walking decks. Quality service & response our first priority. All work guaranteed. ROC# CR42 132572 Call Carl 602-432-9183

Crops of Luv

Roofing

Tiles, shingles, flat, repairs & new work Free Estimates • Ahwatukee Resident Over 30 yrs. Experience

480-706-1453

YOUR CLASSIFIED SOURCE

Licensed/Bonded/Insured • ROC #236099

Your Ad can go ONLINE ANY Day! Call to place your ad online!! Classifieds 480-898-6465

480.898.6465 CLASS@TIMESPUBLICATIONS.COM

Quality Leak Repairs & Re-Roofs

Come Join us: Help make embellishments, organize or assist with events, scrapbook, donate your time, money or space.

DENNIS PORTER

Jody, co-founder, Ahwatukee based nonprofit

Come be apart of something Awesome! Cropsofluv.com

Roofing

cropsofluv@cox.net

The Most Detailed Roofer in the State

Overeaters Anonymous Tuesday's at 10:30 AM Esperanza Lutheran Church Ray & Thunderhill

Tim KLINE Roofing, LLC

Roofs Done Right...The FIRST Time! 15-Year Workmanship

Warranty on All Complete Roof Systems

www.timklineroofing.com FREE Estimate and written proposal

480-357-2463

R.O.C. #156979 K-42 Licensed, Bonded and Insured

Roofing

Family Owned/ Operated

"My dream is that one day we will be able to give every "wish" child a scrapbook to remind them that dreams do come true."

480.634.7763

Roofing

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS & GAMANON for meeting information 602-266-97846 AMERICAN LEGION AHWATUKEE Post #64 We Meet Every 3rd Wed at 3pm at the Ahwatukee Retirement Center At 5001 E Cheyenne Dr, Phoenix, Az. 85044. Contact ED MANGAN Cmdr 602-501-0128

Honest Free Estimates References

Window Cleaning

Meetings/Events

John's Window Cleaning 1-story $135 / 2-story $155 -inside and out up to 30 panes (add'l panes $2) Screens cleaned $2.50 per pane. Power Washing and Re-Screening available Same day Service (480) 201-6471

In-Ahwatukee Toastmasters Club meets from 6:45-8am every Tuesday at Dignity Health Urgent Care Ahwatukee - Community Room (1st floor), 4545 E. Chandler Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85048. Guests welcome anytime! http://4873.toast mastersclubs.org/

Window Cleaning

480-460-7602 or 602-710-2263

• Insured • Family Owned & Operated • Insured ••Family & Operated Insured • FreeOwned Estimates Insured ••Free Estimates Family Owned Operated Owned &&Operated •Family Honest & Reputable •••Honest & Reputable Free Free Estimates Estimates

RANDY HALFHILL

Honest & Reputable ••Honest Reputable

602-910-1485

jEssE jOnEs, OwnER jEssE jOnEs, jOnEs, jEssE jOnEs, OwnER OwnER jEssE OwnER 602.695.9660 602.695.9660 602.695.9660 602.695.9660 uptOwnwIndOwclEanIng@gmaIl.cOm uptOwnwIndOwclEanIng@gmaIl.cOm uptOwnwIndOwclEanIng@gmaIl.cOm

uptOwnwIndOwclEanIng@gmaIl.cOm

Lic#ROC 152111 Bonded

Meetings/Events

PARENTS OF ADDICTED LOVED ONES Are you affected by someone who is dealing with an addiction? If so, know that you are not alone and that the PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones) group can help. The group is available to provide education and support to anyone 18 years or older who is dealing with a friend or family member with an addiction. See our local meeting list at palgroup.org

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS SENIOR ASSOCIATION (AFSA)

Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors (AFFAN) is a women's organization, dedicated to cultivating friendships, and goodwill. AFFAN promotes social, charitable and educational events all year long. AFFAN holds monthly luncheon meetings with varied speakers. We offer over 40 monthly activities including Book Clubs, Canasta, Bunco, Euchre, and Bridge. Other monthly activities are Dining Out, Stitch and Chat, Explore Arizona, and Garden Club. Significant others/ spouses can attend some events. For more info contact affanwomensgroup @gmail.com. Check our website at affanwomensclub.com

Smart Recovery Meeting Wed’s 7:00 8:30 p.m. 6400 W. Del Rio Chandler Montessori School next to Unitarian Church room 5. All issues drugs, alcohol, gambling, online addictions, & medications. 480-532-2460

Attention: Seniors 55+ --- become a member of AFSA. Mark your calendars for the first Thursdayof every month and enjoy meeting new friends, have a delicious lunch, and be entertained. This all takes place at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel located at 51st St. and Elliot Rd. in Phoenix. Doors open at 11am and lunch is at Noon. Cost is $15. For further information and details, please call Sue McCann at (480) 469-9388.

Windows

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a weight loss organization that is over 60 years old. We meet at Ahwatukee Rec Center on Cheyenne between S. 48th St. and S. 51st St. on Wed. eve's from 67:30 p.m. For more information: Terri at 480-893-6742.

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | NOVEMBER 29, 2017

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Your Hometown Air Conditioning Specialist

480-893-8335 www.BrewersAC.com

Buy a qualifying system and choose:

0% APR Financing for 72 Months* OR Trade-In Allowance of $1,000** Additional financing and trade-in allowance offers available.

A+ Rating CR39-312643 SINCE 1982 ROC #C39-080322-00

FALL $ TUNE-UP REG. $99

Includes a 16-Point Inspection plus a condenser coil rinse if accessible

RESIDENTIAL ONLY

*Up to to $4,650 Brewer’s Dealer Rebate, up to $800 Utility Rebate. The Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. This information is accurate as of 7/1/2017 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. Offer expires 12/15/2017. **See your independent Trane Dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. Special financing offers OR trade-in allowances from $100 up to $1,000 valid on qualifying equipment only. Offers vary by equipment. All sales must be to homeowners in the United States. Void where prohibited.

FREE

Service Call Second Opinion (WITH REPAIR)