Peoria Times 121522

Centennial Plaza Park expansion project unveiled

BY JOE MCHUGH Peoria Times Staff Writer

On Dec. 7 at Centennial Plaza Park, the city of Peoria unveiled its new legacy project — the Decades Wall. This expansion project includes the history of the country, including Arizona- and Peoria-specific events that have been instrumental in shaping the community and society as a whole throughout the last decade.

“It not only means a lot for the community, it means a lot for the state of Arizona,” Mayor Cathy Carlat said. “This is a legacy project that has to do with our centennial, 100 years, and so, we wanted to step up The Decades Wall includes the history of the country, including Arizona- and Peoria-specifi c events that have been instrumental in shaping the community and society as a whole throughout the last decade. (City of Peoria/Submitted)

PUSD holds farewell reception for outgoing members

BY JOE MCHUGH Peoria Times Staff Writer

On Dec. 8, the Peoria Unified School District held a farewell reception for two of its outgoing members, Congress Rep. Beverly Pingerelli and Governing Board Clerk Corey Underhill. The two were sent off to their future endeavors with many thanks for their years of service to the school’s board.

“It’s awesome,” Underhill said. “We’ve been a part of the period since 2007, when

and Corey Underhill

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CENTENNIAL FROM PAGE 1 and take part in what we care about the most, which is being part of the state of Arizona, state 48. That’s big for us.”

The Decades Wall is a vertical monument that highlights major historical events in the country, state and city in an effort to educate the community on past events that helped create the world they live in today. Events that make up the face of the wall range from the death of Robin Williams to the Patriots winning their fifth Super Bowl in Glendale.

The wall also includes the remembrance of Brandon Caserta — a former U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class and Peoria resident — whose tragic death inspired a movement advocating for more support for mental health in the military.

“It means the world to us to be honest,” said Brandon’s father, Patrick Caserta. “His legacy is important to save lives; that’s what we do. His whole life, we lived in Peoria. We moved three times in Peoria. He went to grade school, middle school and high school here. He loved Peoria.”

The wall is an addition to the preexisting Decades Walk, a monument that highlighted the initial 100-year anniversary of Arizona with historical events from 1912, Arizona’s inaugural year, to 2012. The wall is still only half filled in, though, with history happening from 2013 until 2021. It has more room for historical events that will take

FAREWELL FROM PAGE 1 my kids were just starting out. And this has been a real blessing for our family.”

The two women have both served very fruitful terms with PUSD and have both inspired great change in the district.

Pingerelli has been with the Governing Board since 2014 and has served many positions in her tenure. The former president and clerk spent her time attempting to improve the overall academic performance from participating schools in the district. She also was heavily involved in the support of technical education opportunities.

place in the future, spanning until 2032 being updated at the end of every passing year.

“This is the kind of thing that grounds (residents),” Carlat said. “It gives them a foundation in Arizona and in the city of Peoria when they learn about our history, and they start to feel a part of that knowledge and they can see us moving on. Because our history is the foundation on which we build our present and on which we build our future.

“So, as more people move here and more people get used to what’s going on in the city of Peoria, they can be-

Underhill had served on the board since 2019. A former teacher in the district, she came into the board with many new ideas to improve the quality of life and education for its students.

“I had a few ideas around curriculum and around behavioral support, and I’m happy to say that we were able, through the four years, to have adopted additional, relevant curriculum,” Underhill said. “We’ve done a lot in the area of social emotional support, like getting additional social workers, implementing different programs across the schools to make sure that we’re really meeting the needs of those kids.”

come a part of our history, too.”

With the education the wall brings to current and future Peoria citizens, it shows the growth of the booming city and the pride that comes with being a part of a budding community.

“I am beside myself with being proud,” Carlat said. “I am proud of the city of Peoria as it is. That’s because I know a lot of our history and I’ve been able to be a part of our history.”

The Centennial Plaza Decades Walk is located at Peoria’s Centennial Plaza Park, 9875 N. 85th Avenue, and is open to the public for viewing. PT

The Colorado native has been instrumental to many policies being implemented in the district. She ensured that the district would grow in a positive manner and offer the best education possible to every student. This implementation would ensure that the students would be set up best for a positive future.

“Generally seeing the district continue to thrive through all of the turmoil that happened in the last four years, it’s been amazing.” Underhill said.

Pingerelli was unavailable to speak on the end of her tenure with PUSD. PT

To get

Mayor Cathy Carlat, along with the parents of fallen soldier and Peoria native Brandon Caserta, took in the wall’s unveiling. (City of Peoria/Submitted)

Valleywise Health elects new chairman

BY PEORIA TIMES STAFF

J. Woodfin “Woody” Thomas, a former Litchfield Park mayor, has been elected chairman of the Maricopa County Special Health Care District Board, which oversees Valleywise Health, Arizona’s leading public teaching hospital and safety net system of care.

At a recent meeting, the board elected Thomas to chair the five-member elected body. Director Mark Dewane was elected vice chairman.

Thomas currently represents District

4, which includes many West Valley communities, including Peoria, Glendale, Goodyear, Avondale, Buckeye, Litchfield Park, El Mirage, Sun City and Sun City West.

The only West Valley resident to serve on the board, Thomas was first elected in 2018 and was sworn in for another four-year term on Monday.

A certified General Real Estate Appraiser, Thomas served as mayor of Litchfield Park from 2000 to 2006 and as a member of the city’s planning and zoning commission from 2006 to

2012.

Born and raised in Towson, Maryland, Thomas received his bachelor’s degree in dairy science from University of Maryland College Park in 1975. He worked in the U.S. Department of Agriculture from 1977 to 2016.

“I am honored to serve as chairman of this exceptional board as we enter a new era for Valleywise Health,” Thomas said, noting the planned opening of a new Valleywise Health Medical Center in October 2023.

The new hospital will replace the vintage facility that opened in 1971.

“I look forward to working with our entire board, medical staff, hospital leadership and our partners at District Medical Group to guide Valleywise Health through this historic transformation,” Thomas said. “Thanks to their leadership, we are reshaping Valleywise Health to better serve our community, bring in more advanced services and an even greater focus on providing our patients with an exceptional experience.” PT

Legend Acres signs contract with Peoria Parks and Recreation

BY PEORIA TIMES STAFF

Legend Acres, a local, veteran-owned company of dog and horse solutions, recently signed a contract agreement with the city of Peoria Parks and Recreation for dog training.

Founded in 2010, Legend Acres is a reputable professional dog training company and, for more than a decade, the company has been working to enhance the industry standard for dog training and to educate people by creating results-oriented programs.

This commitment has helped the company develop an undisputed reputation in the industry. The company’s expert dog trainers offer research-driven dog training and education programs that are proven to be more effective.

Legend Acres will conduct dog obe-

dience classes, trick classes and workshops at Pioneer Park that will provide a conducive place for dog training that exhibits the company’s certified trainers and their expertise in training techniques.

“The training environment really matters, as it provides socialization and addresses needed behavior modifications for the dogs being trained,” said Kristi May, Legend Acres Founder and CEO. “The location of the park in the city of Peoria made it an obvious choice for our classes. This contract agreement will help serve as a catalyst for my business growth.

“Our training methods focus on developing a strong bond and a healthy relationship between the owner and their dog. Our expertise is understanding how a dog naturally thinks, learns and communicates in order to teach you how to communicate with your dog. Our techniques work with

any breed, any age, any issue”.

Classes in the park will begin Saturday, Jan. 21. Registration is available through the city of Peoria Parks

and Recreation portal at peoriaaz. gov/government/departments/parksrecreation-and-community-facilities. PT

Mercy Care, Mercy Care Advantage hosting free laundry event

BY PEORIA TIMES STAFF

Inflation has made everything more expensive — including washing your clothes. With that in mind, Mercy Care and Mercy Care Advantage are are hosting a no-cost community laundry event that will take place across the Valley throughout December.

During the no-cost events, which are open to Mercy Care and Mercy Care

Advantage members, as well as the general public, participants will receive $10 laundry gift cards for complimentary use of a 20-pound or 40-pound washing machine, which also includes funds toward use of a dryer.

Guests will also be provided with complimentary detergent, bleach and fabric softener. Machines are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Each Loads of Love event is focused

on supporting vulnerable members of our community and their families,” said Cinthya Quintana, senior manager of community development for Mercy Care Advantage. “It’s a benefit for our Mercy Care and Mercy Care Advantage members, and this event is open to anyone in need of assistance leading up to the holidays as well.”

For more information about Mercy Care and Mercy Care Advantage, visit

mercycareaz.org. PT

IF YOU GO...

Loads of Love event

WHEN: 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21

WHERE: COIN Less LAUNDRY, 6750 W. Olive Avenue, Peoria

Legend Acres, a local, veteran-owned company of dog and horse solutions, recently signed a contract agreement with the city of Peoria Parks and Recreation for dog training. (Legend Acres/Submitted)

The rich aren’t interesting — until they are

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ Peoria Times Columnist

e grew up poor. I was the first son of married teenagers who lived in a threeroom apartment in New York. My brother and I shared the bedroom and bunk beds until I was 12 and he was 9. Our parents slept in the living room on a fold-out couch from Levitz. Our mother ironed patches over the knees of the jeans we bought at Sears not because that was the style, but because we couldn’t afford anything better.

Finally, about the time I hit my teenage years, we made it to lower middle class. I even got a couple pairs of Levi’s and Pro Keds as proof.

WFast forward 40-odd years. I’m not poor anymore. Yet I still find myself not trusting — or much liking — the rich. Maybe it’s envy.

Or maybe F. Scott Fitzgerald was correct in his story “The Rich Boy,” which begins, “Let me tell you about the very rich. They are different from you and me.''

To which I’ll add, “in ways that can be annoying as hell.”

This is precisely why I’ve enjoyed watching Elon Musk, the world’s richest human, struggle as his latest toy — Twitter — falls apart around him.

It’s also why I studiously avoid news coverage of the British Royal Family, especially Californians-come-lately Prince Harry and his wife, former TV actress Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex.

Musk reminds me of a few fabulously wealthy folks I have worked for in my day job as a communications consultant.

A brilliant engineer who used his brain to make billions as the mind behind SpaceX and Tesla, Musk has confused his scientific genius and astonishing knack for making money with the ability to run the world’s most unruly social media cesspool.

Perhaps you’re familiar with the Peter Principle, a management concept

that theorizes that workers rise in a hierarchy until they reach their level of incompetence — and there they stay.

Musk seems right about there with Twitter, doddering about as the self-proclaimed “chief Twit,” while his toy hemorrhages users, followers and cash.

Meanwhile, Musk’s every move — and his 10 kids, silly memes, and personal bottom line, currently estimated by Forbes at $185 billion — churn out daily headlines that I work hard to ignore. At least with Musk, there are indisputable accomplishments in the tech and business worlds.

The Royals? If they’ve done much since they lost that war to George Washington,

John Adam and Thomas Jefferson, et al., 245 years ago, I must have missed it.

Prince Harry and Meghan seem especially loathsome, given that both whine constantly about problems that are so far beyond “first world,” they’re not even of this galaxy.

Yet somehow a good number of folks seem fascinated: Netflix is releasing a tellall documentary on the pair as I write this,

and Meghan’s podcast won a People’s Choice Award this week. People magazine — nope, not a subscriber — breathlessly reported on the couple “having a glamorous night out in New York City” this week in a story I passed on, along with everything else Sussex-related.

Disliking the rich may not be a popular stance. Newspapers are full of “news” about bajillion-dollar home purchases, massive sports salaries and

profligate spending.

Personally, I find the rich uninteresting until precisely the moment they aren’t so rich anymore.

One story I did read this week was about one of the wealthiest fellows in Arizona, Ernie Garcia III. Garcia’s personal bottom line dropped 98% this year as his company, Carvana, teeters near bankruptcy. Ernie the Third dropped from being worth about $7

billion to less than $120 million. That I find fascinating. And sad. Though now-multi-millionaire Ernie will probably make out just fine. Rich folks, I learned a long time ago, always do. PT

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

Sinema amnesty bill a not-so-merry ‘gift’ for America

BY J.D. HAYWORTH Peoria Times Columnist

x-FCC Chairman Newton H. Minow famously called television “a vast wasteland” in the early 1960s.

But during that decade, the networks consistently aired programs with a singular holiday theme during one special week in December and the practice

continued through the rest of the 20th century.

ENot just Christmas specials for the kids, featuring Charlie Brown, Rudolph and Frosty… nor those aimed more at an older demographic, with Bing Crosby, Bob Hope and Perry Como.

Regularly scheduled prime-time shows — regardless of genre — all featured one episode each year with a Christmas theme.

Not so with “The Invaders.”

Producer Quinn Martin’s science-fiction series about an alien race from outer space taking over Earth just didn’t lend itself to silver bells, sleigh rides, or chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

But now, a long-form Christmas reality series may be in production.

The theme is not science fiction, but political science, and it’s airing on C-SPAN 2, the home channel of the United States Senate.

With apologies to the late Quinn

Martin, call it “The New Invaders: A Christmas Gift.”

Starring in this production is our own Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (this was written before she changed to independent). Though her costume designer may hope otherwise, Sinema will probably not challenge Senate decorum by wearing a daringly styled suit befi tting a provocative Santa’s Helper.

But make no mistake: Arizona’s senior senator is actively involved as a political provocateur.

She has teamed up with a co-star, Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and together they hope to turn “the world’s greatest deliberative body” into a rapid-delivery gift fulfillment center.

Like a pair of overcaffeinated elves surrounded by empty Red Bull cans, they are hurriedly cobbling together controversial legislation that heretofore has been unable to clear the Senate.

In the spirit of Senators past (and also passed), it’s another pass at amnesty for illegal aliens.

And this time, amid the holiday rush and a rash of Republican Senate retirements, it could very well succeed.

Regular readers may recall that in April there was a prediction in this

space of such an occurrence prior to the conclusion of this Congress. But of the quartet of Senators mentioned then, only Tillis remains. He’s now been joined by Sinema, who’s feeling political heat back home.

Leftist activists found their ardor cooling for Kyrsten when she opposed ending the filibuster.

With widespread speculation that Sinema could face a spirited challenge in the next Democratic primary, Kyrsten has opted to strut her thigh-high boots along a path once shuffled by the wing tips of Dennis DeConcini and the late John McCain.

In August, there was her high-stakes horse trading, insisting on language in the wildly misnamed Inflation Reduction Act that shielded well-heeled investors from a carried-interest tax increase.

The language was added, Sinema

voted “aye,” and her advocacy carried another kind of interest from the investment community — one that bolstered her campaign war chest to the tune of $1.5 million.

It’s now time for Kyrsten to get back to her grassroots on the left and lavish attention on a long-held priority.

Of course, amnesty also has boosters who claim to be conservative, like Tillis. Namely, it’s the anything-for-money crowd willing to sacrifice our collective national security — and what’s left of any middle-class financial security — all the while shouting, “It’s the free market at work!”

Nope. It’s a market distortion that floods the workplace with cheap labor and depresses wages for the law abiding.

But Sinema’s sole focus is political, since the bill will bolster Joe Biden’s

efforts to erase the southern border and will result in millions of cheap votes for the left, helping Democrats achieve their dream of one-party political dominance.

Sinema and Tillis claim that their Amnesty is only for “Dreamers,” but it will be a nightmare to enforce.

Krysten’s Christmas gift to you? America as a “vast wasteland.” PT

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

Hayworth worked as a sportscaster at Channel 10, Phoenix, from 1987 until 1994 and represented Arizona in Congress from 1995-2007.

AROUND THE BLUHMIN’ TOWN

A Santa-mental look at the holiday

BY JUDY BLUHM Peoria Times Columnist

Say hello to primary care centered on seniors

Do you believe in Santa Claus?

Yes, of course you do. Who can honestly say that there is no Santa? So, as we approach Christmas, we still have many reasons to believe.

My uncle used to say that there are four stages of the “Santa Story.” First, you believe in Santa. Then you stop believing in Santa. Then you become Santa. Lastly, you end up looking like Santa. The big guy in a red suit is more than just some made-up token of gift giving.

When people claim Christmas has become “too commercial,” they might point at Santa as the culprit. Hey, don’t blame him for the push, shove and chaos that surrounds Christmas shopping. We did that all by ourselves. Santa is the guy who gives that one meaningful gift per child, from a sleigh, on a wintry night, with nothing but true and good intentions. We all need a little Santa in our lives.

When children are told that Santa is coming, their parents have created one of the biggest faith-based magical stories of all time. Santa is an all-inclusive sort of guy. He may be regarded as a Christian symbol of Christmas, but religion doesn’t matter to Santa. He gives willingly, freely, kindly and completely to kids throughout the world.

Santa has no lists of religious affiliations. Just believe and he will show up. A common thread in his mass appeal is that he lives to give, to bring joy through some small parcels, a few good toys,

and unselfishness that is often lacking in a troubling world. When children throughout the course of time ask, “Is there really a Santa,” the answer has always been universally the same. “Yes, there is a Santa. He lives in the spirit of humanity, in each of us, exemplified by the essence of giving to others.”

No, we shouldn’t blame Santa for making Christmas too commercial. His legacy of thoughtful planning, undying devotion, exemplary work ethic and fondness for cookies should be the gold standard for what giving and sharing is all about.

There will be times in our lives when we are plagued by problems, illness and loss. We grow from wide-eyed children into skeptical teenagers and then cynical adults. The way we see the world begins to change as we mature, experiencing many lumps and bumps along the way. We have big worries and bigger problems. The world is a scary place. And then comes along Santa.

At times, the true meaning of the holidays seems to get lost. But take heart, there is a jolly man in a red suit who will show each of us that to give presents, laugh and sing carols is to spread joy. The rich traditions of the holidays are all intertwined into a tapestry of sharing that extends throughout our lives. Santa sets the example to believe in the power of unbridled enthusiasm and unmatched anticipation. He also looks good in a red suit and loves cookies. A subtle reminder to wear a splash of red and eat lots of cookies during this Santa-mental season. PT

Judy Bluhm is a writer and a local Realtor. Have a story or a comment? Email her at judy@judybluhm.com.

Dementia education coming to doctors near you

BY LIN SUE FLOOD Hospice of the Valley

It’s staggering to think that 6.5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. You may even know a relative, friend or neighbor who has it. With the highest growth rate for dementia in the nation, Arizona is projected to reach 200,000 cases by 2025. Family members who are suddenly thrust into the “caregiver role” are desperate for support, unprepared to face a disease that lasts years and becomes more challenging as it progresses. The lack of health care professionals trained in dementia care affects us all. The good news is… there is help — and it’s literally coming right to your doctor’s office. Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus is launching an unprecedented education project aimed at training more than 3,000 health providers over the next 14 months to enhance dementia care for

those with early and moderate stages of the disease. The extensive campaign is being funded by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.

“Half of all primary care physicians feel the medical profession has little to no preparation for serving the burgeoning numbers of people living with dementia,” said Hospice of the Valley Dementia Program Director Maribeth Gallagher, citing a recent Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures Report.

“There is a tremendous and critical need for dementia care education and training that will help providers deliver evidence-based skillful and compassionate care. And that need will only grow as the incidence of dementia rises each year.”

This education project covers a wide variety of topics, from assessing and diagnosing mild dementia to understanding which medications help or harm dementia patients. The presentations also give doctors practical tools they can share with family caregivers,

such as the soothing effects of “Vitamin M” — music — or ways to decode behaviors that express unmet needs like fear, anxiety or pain.

Hospice of the Valley already offers an in-home Supportive Care for Dementia program at no charge to family caregivers who are caring for loved ones — from pre-diagnosis through the early and middle stages of dementia. This new initiative focuses exclusively on medical professionals, equipping them with tools to help their patients manage early and moderate stages of the disease with knowledge and dignity.

“We can educate providers — and, through them, families — to improve quality of life for people living with all types and all stages of dementia,” Supportive Care for Dementia Medical Director Gillian Hamilton said. “Physician offices are the first stop for families concerned about memory loss, and how they talk to families sets the stage for the whole journey through dementia.”

Hospice of the Valley Executive Medical Director Ned Stolzberg is confident this unique training opportunity will be widely embraced.

“Having been in primary care myself, I know how helpless physicians and nurse practitioners can feel when confronted with patients struggling with dementia,” he said. “Not only problems related to diagnosis and treatment, but also the myriad challenges that arise in the social realm. Awareness of even the basic tools to address some of this will greatly empower our medical community.”

Call 602-767-8300 or email education@dementiacampus.org to schedule presentations for health care providers. PT

Lin Sue Flood is director of Community Engagement at Hospice of the Valley. For information on programs and services, visit hov.org.

Jalapeño Inferno cooks up holiday special on tamales

BY JOE MCHUGH Peoria Times Staff Writer

Twenty-three years ago, restaurateurs Terry and Laura Craig wanted to get into the Mexican food business. After some searching, they came across the bones of what they thought could be a successful endeavor.

Twenty-two years and three locations later, the Craigs opened Jalapeño Inferno’s fourth location in Park West, Peoria, bringing their fresh food, affordable prices and the Scottsdale restaurant feel to the West Valley.

“The Peoria residents were saying, ‘We’d like to go out to a nice din-

ner, but we don’t want to drive all the way to Scottsdale,’” Terry said. “And we put food on the plate, and we keep it fresh. I think that’s the difference.”

The mom-and-pops restaurant is entirely owned by the Craigs, both with big-chain restaurant experience, first started in Scottsdale. Terry, the chef of the duo, had never tried his hand at cooking Mexican food, but was determined to make the restaurant the best it could be foodwise, while Laura would run the floor and make customers feel the most accommodated in their care.

With this determination, the pair turned their small restaurant into a

chain that spans multiple parts of North Scottsdale, including a takeout kitchen and cantina, as well as Peoria.

“We’re still the same though,” Terry said. “We still go to work every day. It’s still our restaurant, and we work hard, like any entrepreneur would, just trying to do the right thing.”

Jalapeño Inferno prides itself on its ideology of having everything made

SEE

PAGE 12

Terry Craig is the chef of the duo, with Laura Craig running the fl oor and accommodating customers. (Jalapeño Inferno/Submitted)

TAMALES

from scratch and providing the best food at a good price. Coming to the West Valley in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant hasn’t seen its full potential yet, but with restrictions getting lighter, Jalapeño Inferno is gaining more and more popularity in Peoria.

Its mission to differentiate themselves from other restaurants is that everything it makes is from scratch, from the “legendary” tamales to guacamole and even freshly squeezed limes for margaritas.

“I have two full-time people in every restaurant, eight to 10 hours a day,” Terry said. “They just stand there, and they never cook a ticket or they never fry a taco. They’re standing in the back room making everything from scratch every day.”

“We still think people can tell; the discerning eye or palate can tell that it’s not (premade) food,” he added. This method has netted Jalapeño In-

ferno great success, with its sweet green corn tamale leading the way. It has taken that into account, as in the month of December only, ending on New Year’s, it is offering a holiday special that includes six free tamales — sweet green corn or seasonal red spicy pork — with a preorder of a dozen tamales.

This is to honor the traditional Mexican history behind the tamale, of being a winter food that brings family together behind some great tasting food.

Through New Year’s, Jalapeño Inferno is offering a holiday special that includes six free tamales with a preorder of a dozen. (Jalapeño Inferno/Submitted)

“We’re so known for our tamales anyways,” Terry said. “And it is kind of a Hispanic Arizona tradition that

the family stands around the kitchen and they all get together and they make tamales together. That’s a pret-

ty cool tradition in the Southwest where we live, and so we try to capture that.” PT

Contact Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480-898-5631 or christina@timeslocalmedia.com

Liberty football gains recognition from Cardinals

BY JOE MCHUGH Peoria Times Staff Writer

The Liberty Lions high school football program has been one of the best in Arizona for the past few years, as they have been consistently competing for a State Championship among the toughest competition.

In 2022 though, Liberty’s success gained more recognition than ever before, culminating in the Arizona Cardinals and Circle K handing three members of the team end of the season awards.

Head coach Colin Thomas was named the Coach of the Year, junior quarterback Navi Bruzon the Player of the Year, and senior defensive lineman My’Keil Gardner the Defensive Player of the Year.

Starting with Thomas, the success that led to him becoming the Cardinals Coach of the Year will be considered some of the best that the school has ever seen, but he gives himself only a portion of the credit for the award.

“That’s an honor,” Thomas said. “I think it speaks for the whole staff and our program in general. You get those awards because you have lots of success. A lot of people here work long hours to make sure we have that success. So, I feel very thankful and it’s a credit to the whole program.”

The program as a whole was unstoppable this year. The Lions finished the season at 10-0 — the only undefeated team in the 6A conference — and have elevated from statewide recognition to national recognition. The team climbed as high as the No. 14-ranked team in the country by MaxPreps.

The offense averaged a blistering 41 points per game in the regular season while the defense was among the best in the state, only allowing 6.9 points per game. The high offensive output

and stout defense came against some of the top programs in the state, as they defeated three of the other seven programs that made the Open Division bracket — Scottsdale Saguaro, 26-17; Chandler Basha, 35-7; and cross-town rival Centennial, 24-14.

This combined effort netted them with the top seed in the sixth hardest playoff bracket in the country, accord-

ing to MaxPreps — Arizona’s Open Division Playoffs.

“There’s a lot of great football programs in the country, so to be mentioned with them is great,” Thomas said. “But it’s a credit to, again, our players. We’re here because of what they do on the field and the effort they put into our program, and that’s been going on a long time. This didn’t get

started this year; it’s been many years of many people putting time and effort into this point and getting us here.”

Two of the players stood above the rest, as leaders and as star athletes in the state.

Bruzon had a true breakout year in 2022. Coming into his second year as

Liberty High School football head coach Colin Thomas (second from the left), defensive lineman My’Keil Gardner (third from the right) and quarterback Navi Bruzon (second from the right) were honored on the field at the Cardinals recent home game against the New England Patriots. (Liberty High School/Submitted)

Coyotes to hold charity broadcast for Phoenix Children’s

BY PEORIA TIMES STAFF

The Arizona Coyotes Foundation, in conjunction with Bally Sports Arizona, will be holding a charity broadcast during the Coyotes’ game versus the New York Islanders on Friday, Dec. 16.

All funds raised online during the broadcast will be donated to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The broadcast will begin on Bally Sports Arizona at 7:30 p.m. with the “Coyotes Live” pregame show at 7 p.m. The game will also be streamed on the Bally Sports app and on Bally Sports+.

“One of Bally Sports Arizona’s top priorities is supporting our team’s efforts to give back to the community,” said Rebecca Schulte, Bally Sports Arizona senior vice president and general manager.

“We look forward to this signature

event, and I am very proud of the amount of work and coordination it takes from everyone at our network to produce this important broadcast.”

The Arizona Coyotes Foundation has a mission to enhance the quality of life throughout Arizona communities by supporting nonprofi t organizations that promote health care, education and cultural arts programs for children and servicemen and women.

Donations of $100 to $399 will receive an exclusive poster featuring Coyotes players Clayton Keller, Nick Schmaltz, Lawson Crouse and Karel Vejmelka. The custom artwork poster was created by artist David Arrigo and will be autographed by one of the featured players.

Donations of $400 or more will receive an exclusive, limited edition Coyotes jacket featuring Keller, Schmaltz, Crouse and Vejmelka on the back panel

of the jacket. The custom artwork was created by Arrigo, and the jacket will be autographed by all four of the players featured.

“We are excited to once again team up with our great partner Bally Sports Arizona for our annual charity broadcast to raise funds for Phoenix Children’s,” Coyotes President and CEO Xavier A. Gutierrez said.

“Giving back to the community is a top priority for the Coyotes, and we are honored to support Phoenix Children’s who do so much incredible work to help Valley kids and families in need. We are grateful to Bally Sports Arizona and all our incredible fans for their continuous support.”

Donations can be made by visiting arizonacoyotes.com/ telethon. Fans can follow the charity broadcast coverage throughout the evening on social media at

CARDINALS FROM PAGE 13

the program’s starter, Bruzon stepped up to the occasion, asserting himself as a force on the field.

“It feels great; glad to be recognized as one of the best among Arizona.” Bruzon said. “We’ve just been working, so it’s finally paying off.”

Bruzon displayed his dominance with 2,770 yards and 33 touchdowns through the air, completing his passes at a 72% clip. Supporting his efficient passing, Bruzon’s legs gave him an additional 325 yards and three scores on the ground. He was a driving factor as to how the offense performed in the fashion it did.

On the opposite side of the ball, Bruzon had the support he needed in order to put up Cardinals MVP numbers. And support is what he got, as the defensive unit was anchored by Gardner, who is committed to play collegiately

Catch

@arizonacoyotes.

“Support from the Arizona Coyotes has meant improved patient experiences for the patients and families at Phoenix Children’s, since 1996,” said Tim Harrison, vice president, corporate partnerships and special events at Phoenix Children’s.

“Whether it is through donations, partnerships or in-person visits from players, the Coyotes have proven their dedication to the Phoenix Children’s mission time and time again.

“We are excited about the Coyotes move to Mullet Arena in Tempe, where they are more accessible than ever. But, regardless of where they are located, they’ve never hesitated to step up and help the kids at Phoenix Children’s. We are continually grateful for their partnership and look forward to what more we can make possible.” PT

at the University of Oregon.

“For me, it’s really a team award,” the Cardinals Defensive Player of the Year said. “I said it’s a team award for my defense and the way we played this season. It’s an award for all of us this season.”

As well as the unit played, Gardner was the standout of the bunch, consistently causing disruption to opposing offenses. He racked up 51 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss, all the while being a leader for his group and the whole team.

On the backs of Thomas, Bruzon and Gardner, Liberty was able to breeze easily into the semifinal round of the Open Playoffs. They squared off against a familiar foe in Saguaro, where they lost by heartbreak fashion in a 43-42 shootout.

Operation Santa spreads cheer through shopping

BY JOE MCHUGH Peoria Times Staff Writer

On Dec. 6, the Fiesta Bowl partnered with Fighter Country Foundation and Dick’s Sporting Goods to hold the sixth annual Operation Santa event at Arrowhead Mall.

The event gives support to military families by allowing them to shop for holiday gifts as a small token for the sacrifices they have to make for the greater good of the country.

“The feeling of getting to play Santa is pretty special,” said Kristina Chumpol, director of community relations for the Fiesta Bowl.

“I think we’ve all learned that it’s oftentimes the simple things that bring so much joy. But certainly, when we get to see a kid get a brand new pair of shoes, that’s that name-brand one that they’ve been wanting, knowing that that’s special for them. It’s good stuff; it certainly warms my heart.”

The event hosted 40 children from Fighter Country, all with family members who are currently deployed or that will be deployed within the next three months. They first were treated to an arts and crafts portion, giving the kids the opportunity to express themselves through picture frames, bracelets or Christmas ornaments.

From there, the children were paired up with a Fiesta Bowl volunteer or a Dick’s employee, where they took to the store with a $300 gift card to shop around for whatever they wanted. From shoes and clothes to an air hockey table, the children’s laughter and happiness filled the store in the feel-good event.

“It’s just a small token of what we can do for these families,” said Ryan Polosky, community marketing manager for Dick’s Sporting Goods. “I think that’s what the holiday season, hopefully, is all about. It’s awesome.

“I remember the story last year, a

little boy bought a soccer goal for his whole team. So even they have the spirit of buying things for others, which is really neat and cool to see.”

The event provides tons of support — monetarily and sentimentally — to the participating families, as they have to endure the holidays while not having the full family present. So the support they gain through Operation Santa transcends any ordinary event, as so many people are directly and positively impacted by it.

In the past, members of the families that were deployed for the event have come back with immeasurable gratitude, as the families were treated well by Operation Santa. Their holiday seasons were benefited by the shopping spree, and the memories created last long after checkout.

“It’s priceless; just absolutely amazing,” said Ron Sites, president of Fighter Country Foundation. “They all say the same thing. It’s not just a small shopping spree, it’s a substantial shopping spree to where the kids are buying presents for their siblings and for their parents and for their friends, so the impact goes across so many levels.”

The event will continue to be a staple for Arrowhead Towne Center, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Fiesta Bowl and Fighter Country Foundation, as the combined effort to boost just one family’s holiday season carries on through the year until the next Operation Santa.

“I’ve been doing this for almost 20 years now, and every time we have one of these events and just seeing the good in the community and what Dick’s Sporting Goods are doing to give back, it’s hard to put it in words,” said Ryan Walker, store manager at the Arrowhead Dick’s Sporting Goods.

“It’s definitely a powerful experience.” PT

The Operation Santa event hosted 40 children from Fighter Country. (Jon Mouer/ Contributor)

Carvana sculpting its annual Happy Haulerdays event

BY JOE MCHUGH Peoria Times Staff Writer

Carvana kicked off the Haulerdays food drive with a commemorative sculpture at its vending machine in Glendale.

Created by local artist Ryan Murray, the sculpture is a life-size car made entirely out of over 3,000 donated cans of food. All of the donations that Carvana receives though the drive will go to its local partner, Nourish.

“It is really something that fills the cup,” Carvana public relations specialist David Klemow said. “They need the help, and this is what we’re able to do. By encouraging the public to come out and help us, we’re able to give that extra push, but they never have enough. They need as much help as they can get at all times.”

The sculpture was a project of mutual benefit. Carvana’s idea for the 2022 version of Haulerdays was to have something creative be represen -

tative of the support they give as well as the business they have. Murray, a Phoenix-based artist and sculptor, has created many different sculptures and works of art, ranging from signage for restaurants all the way to pieces like the Carvana food drive vehicle.

“We wanted to do something creative; we wanted to do something that visually represents what we want to do and the type of happiness we want to drive for the holidays.” Klemow said.

Carvana’s Haulerdays event has been an internal affair for some years now, and only people inside the walls of the company would participate. Not this year, though, as they are now opening it up to the public at all 33 locations across the country. Arizona specifically, the Tempe and Glendale locations will be accepting donations.

“(We’re) making it a Valleywide and

Food drive donations will be accepted at any Carvana location through Dec. 19. (Carvana/Submitted)

a countrywide thing,” Klemow said. “And so for Happy Haulerdays this year, we’re really trying hard to drive happiness for the holidays and bring people meals.”

Nourish is a Phoenix-based volun-

teer organization that primarily focuses on giving food and clothing to people in poverty or facing adversity of any kind. The partnership with

Carvana will help bring hundreds of people the food needed to get through hard times.

“We’re in a time where every little bit helps and every little bit counts,

and no one isn’t struggling,” Klemow said. “And we’re certainly in a time where people who may have never, ever struggled with food insecurity are finding themselves in those situations. And so the food banks are endlessly

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thankful.”

The donations will be accepted at any Carvana location through Dec. 19.

“I mean, it’s really cool,” Klemow said. “This is the first time that we’ve

done anything Haulerdays-wise outside of Carvana. So, it feels like kind of a special moment for us.”

MLK Day of Service Saturday, Jan. 14 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Peoria Community Center 8335 W Jefferson St.

PAGE 16 SEE MORE NEWS ONLINE. WWW.PEORIATIMES.COM JANUARY 20, 2023 Rose Lane Park FEBRUARY 17, 2023 Thunderbird Paseo Park MARCH 17, 2023 Foothills Park FREE ADMISSION ! FREE ADMISSION ! Movie starts at dusk Pre-movie Activities Starting at 5:00pm. More information at: www.glendaleaz.co m /events

The Peoria Times publishes on Thursday. The weekly calendar — a listing of entertainment events such as concerts, theatrical performances, events for schools, churches, county parks and nonprofit groups — runs every issue.

Events must be open to the public to be considered and generally must be held within the Times’ coverage area, which is Peoria.

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

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

Sew Smart Sewing Club

WEDNESDAYS

Join the sewing club on Wednesdays for fun, laughter and sewing. Participants are invited to use the library’s machines or bring their own. Experienced adults 18 and older are invited.

Peoria Main Library, 8463 W. Monroe Street, Peoria, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free, peoriaaz.gov

Live Music at Winery 101 Peoria

THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS

Winery 101 Peoria pairs vino with live music this month. Anyone is welcome to join, and reservations are not required.

From 5 to 7 p.m., wine by the glass is $1 off, and bottles are 10% off during the live music performances. Tastings will not be

available during the live music.

Winery 101 Peoria, 9299 W. Olive Avenue, Suite 101, Peoria, 5 p.m., free, winery101. com

Momma’s Organic Market

SATURDAYS

Featuring food trucks, local artisans and fresh produce, this weekly farmers market gives locals the chance to shop local and shop fresh. Taking place near Dillard’s, new vendors grace this event weekly. Admission is free, and furry friends are allowed if they’re on a leash. Cash and cards are accepted as methods of payment, and the market runs from 8 to 11 a.m.

Arrowhead Towne Center, 7780 W. Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale, 8 a.m., free, arrowheadtownecenter.com

Holiday Extravaganza

DEC. 15

Enjoy a holiday open house at Peoria Senior Living and enjoy live entertainment

from the king’s carolers. Beverages, food, dessert stations, door prize drawings and a visit from Santa Claus are all around to help make the festivities more merry. Information and tours of the senior living campus will also be available. Call or email to RSVP.

Ridges at Peoria Senior Living, 18170 N. 91st Avenue, Peoria, 4 to 6 p.m., info@ ridgesatpeoria.org, 623-974-5848

After Dark Cabaret: ‘A Christmas Carol The Musical’ DEC.

16

The After Dark Cabaret continues its tradition of free Friday night performances with a fun twist on a Christmas classic. Watch Charles Dickens’ unforgettable classic “A Christmas Carol” told through the lens of a musical in this after evening production.

Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria, 9:45 p.m., free,

azbroadway.org/event/after-dark-cabaret-2

Burn Scar Massage Therapy

Class

DEC. 17

Burn scars can have a significant impact on the tissue surrounding them, leading to pain and discomfort. Learn to treat these scars and reduce pain by a massage session focused on meaningful results. Learn how to identify various scar types and work confidently with any client that has internal or external scarring through this eight-hour class. Call in or email for payment details and further information.

Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness, 8279 W Lake Pleasant Parkway, Suite 106, Peoria, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., $255 registration, hwcmassage2004@gmail.com, 706-831-2889

Vistancia Christmas Market & Santa Gift Shop

DEC. 18

Get in the holiday spirit by visiting the

Christmas market at Vistancia. Enjoy over 80 vendors, including many food trucks and even a lobster truck. Find all kinds of interesting kids activities and one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones. Listen to live music and enjoy a festive holiday experience with Santa Claus himself up on the Christmas float.

Vistancia Mountain Vista Club, 29701 N Sunrise Point, Peoria, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., free admission, allevents.in/mobile/amp-event. php?event_id=200023655987116

Tuesday Night Acoustic Jam Sessions

DEC. 20

When working with any musical instrument, it’s important to practice as often as you can, and get time with others to figure out your style. Come by to the library and figure out what works, and maybe find the start of a brand new song. Peoria Main Library, 8463 W. Monroe Street, Peoria, 5 to 7 p.m., free, peoriaaz.gov

Theatre for Young Audiences: Fancy Nancy Splendiferous

Christmas

DEC. 20

Spend the holidays up at Peoria’s own Arizona Broadway Theatre and watch a modern children’s holiday classic. After selling all of her old gowns and accessories, Nancy finally has enough money for the sparkling tree topper she’s always wanted. When things go awry, will she still be able to save the holiday? Enjoy a talk-back and a meet and greet with the cast after the show.

Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., ticket prices vary, azbroadway.org

Songercise

DEC. 21

Maximize brain development in young children ages 1 to 5 with Songercise, putting the magic of music to use in learning. Learn the why and how of playing with children, and how to best put their growing minds to use.

Sunrise Mountain Library, 21109 N. 98th Avenue, Peoria, free, 10:30 to 11 a.m., peoriaaz.gov PT

CHURCH-COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Ed Delph Peoria Times Columnist

et’s start this week’s article with a story from Peanuts’ comic strip. Lucy decides that Linus (her little brother) must grow up and learn to live without his security blanket. So, when Linus falls asleep, she slips the blanket out of his hands, takes it outside and buries it. Linus wakes up and discovers his missing blanket; he panics and falls to the floor. Linus can’t catch his breath. He gasps and screams, “I’ve

got to have that blanket. I can’t live without my blanket.”

LThen, Snoopy sees Linus’ dilemma and rises to the occasion. With his trusty nose, he goes outside and sniffs out the blanket, digs it up and brings it back to Linus. Linus is so relieved. With one arm, he grabs the blanket, and with the other, he hugs Snoopy, saying, “Oh, thank you, Snoopy. You have saved my life!” The last picture shows Snoopy lying on his back on top of the doghouse, looking content and thinking, “Every now and then, my existence is justified.”

I like that idea. Every now and then, our existence is justified, especially when we love others with sometimes

sacrificial random acts of kindness and concern. Your kindness and concern are gifts that always fit.

Here is another story by an unknown author that illustrates that we exist for ourselves and others. It’s an excellent reminder by author James Moore for us this Christmas.

“Many years ago, when I worked as a volunteer at a hospital, I got to know a little girl named Liz suffering from a rare and severe disease. Her only chance of recovery appeared to be a blood transfusion from her 5-year-old brother, who had miraculously survived the same condition and had developed the antibodies needed to combat the illness.

“The doctor explained the situation to her little brother and asked the little boy if he would be willing to give his blood to his sister. I saw him hesitate for a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, ‘Yes, I’ll do it if it will save her.’

“As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister and smiled, as we all did, seeing the color returning to her cheeks. Then his face grew pale and his smile faded. He looked up at the doctor and asked, trembling, ‘Will I start to die right away?’ Being young, the little boy misunderstood the doctor; he thought he would have to give his

Peoria Times.com /PeoriaTimes

Pastor

sister all his blood to save her.”

Christmas is God’s love reaching out to us even when we are far away from Him. Christmas, whether we like it or not, reminds us about God and His great concern for us. Just like that boy was willing to die for his sister, Immanuel, or God with us, was willing to die for us. He was ready to take away our diseased blood and give us his healthy blood.

Yes, we need Christmas to wake us up, bring us back, jog our memories and remind us of what life is all about. Let’s face it; there is some Ebenezer Scrooge in all of us. Just like Ebenezer, we need to be converted from selfishness to love. The ability to love is more than enough evidence to justify our existence.

Author James Moore says Christmas

does three things for us. First, Christmas reminds us that we need a savior. Second, Christmas reminds us that we have a savior. Third, Christmas reminds us that we can share a savior. Just think, every time we reach out to help others with the love of Christ, we are sharing the Savior. We love, in action, giving Christmas to those who need a little Christmas now. We are giving life to someone in need of a transfusion. The boy’s gift to his sister was a gift that always fits.

Maybe we have concentrated so much on the gifts we give to one another that we have missed the gifts Christmas gives us, one of which is a justification for your existence. Your existence is evidence that you have something on Earth that only you can do. You are God’s workmanship for a purpose, and

God doesn’t make “no” junk. Let’s finish with a poem by John Boyle O’Reilly, who reveals to us a reason for our existence.

“What is ‘real’ good?” I asked in a musing mood. “Order,” said the law court. “Knowledge,” said the school. “Truth,” said the wise man. “Pleasure,” said the fool. “Affection,” said the maiden. “Beauty,” said the page. “Freedom,” said the dreamer. “Home,” said the sage. “Fame,” said the soldier. “Equity,” said the seer. But spoke my heart full, sadly, “The answer is not here.” Then, within my bosom, softly this I heard; “Each heart holds the secret; ‘kindness’ is the word!”

Just like that Christmas song says, give kindness to someone special this Christmas. Like Snoopy, I can see us

all lying on the top of our doghouse, looking content and thinking, “Every now and then, my existence is justified.” Now, that’s a gift that is always appropriate, a gift that money can’t buy. PT

Ed Delph is a noted author of 10 books, as well as a pastor, teacher, former business owner and speaker. He has traveled extensively, having been to more than 100 countries. He is president of NationStrategy, a nonprofit organization involved in uplifting and transforming communities worldwide. He may be contacted at nationstrategy@cs.com. For more info, see nationstrategy.com.

PUZZLE

answers to puzzles on page 20

8340 W. Northern Harvest CHurCH 91st ave. Northern Ave. Glendale Ave. 83rd Ave.

For more youth visit peoriatimes.com

Kids eat free at these nearby restaurants

BY CHRISTIAN COPUS-SALLAS AND KAILYNN QUENGA Peoria Times Staff Writers

GLENDALE

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar (multiple locations)

9330 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale 623-877-4885, applebees.com 5880 W. Peoria Avenue, Glendale 623-878-3500, applebees.com

Free kids meal provided with the purchase of any full adult entrée.

Denny’s (multiple locations)

15161 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale

623 877-1502, dennys.com 4303 W. Peoria Avenue, Glendale 602-439-2337, dennys.com

Offered Tuesday through Thursday, from 4 to 10 p.m. Two free kids meals are provided per adult meal.

IHOP 6601 W. Peoria Avenue, Glendale 623-878-9631, ihop.com

Free kids meals are provided throughout the week after 3 p.m.

Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant and Cantina 5670 W. Peoria Ave, Glendale 623-979-3500, manuelsaz.com

Free kids meals are provided all day on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult entrée.

PEORIA

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar

8001 W. Bell Road, Peoria 623-878-3500, chilis.com

Free kids meal provided with the purchase of any full adult entrée.

Cafe Rio Mexican Grill (multiple locations) 25225 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway, Peoria 623-900-4736, caferio.com

16955 N. 75th Avenue, Peoria 480-573-0110, caferio.com

Free quesadillas are served for kids 10 and under with the purchase of one adult meal throughout the week.

Chili’s (multiple locations)

7717 W. Bell Road, Peoria 623-535-4222, chilis.com 10040 W. Happy Valley Road, Peoria 623-572-0107, chilis.com

Chili’s Rewards members can earn free kids meals for kids 12 and under with the purchase of a regular entrée.

Denny’s (multiple locations)

PeoriaTimes.com /PeoriaTimes

ROUND-UP

FROM PAGE 23

8737 NW Grand Avenue, Peoria 623-486-5510, dennys.com 8131 W. Bell Road, Peoria 623 486-8505, dennys.com

Offered Tuesday through Thursday, from 4 to 10 p.m. Two free kids meals are provided per adult meal.

IHOP (multiple locations) 9976 W. Happy Valley Parkway, Peoria 623-362-8002, ihop.com 10603 W. Olive Avenue, Peoria 623-977-0599, ihop.com 8359 W. Bell Road, Peoria 623-412-1001, ihop.com

Free kids meals are provided throughout the week after 3 p.m.

NYPD Pizza

7650 W. Bell Road, Peoria 623-561-6973, aznypdpizza.com

On Wednesdays, free kids meals are provided after 4 p.m., but on Saturdays, with the purchase of one small pizza, it is offered all day for kids 10 and under.

Village Inn

9800 W. Happy Valley Road, Peoria 623-572-2708, villageinn.com

On Mondays, one free kids meal is provided per every adult meal purchase. PT

Have Youth News?

Christina Fuoco-Karasinski at 480-898-5631 or christina@timeslocalmedia.com

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is given pursuant to ARS §9-462.04, ARS §9-461.09(A) and the City Code of Peoria, Arizona, that the Board of Adjustment for the City of Peoria will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, January 10, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. at the Peoria City Council Chambers, 8401 W. Monroe Street, Peoria Arizona 85345.

Further information related to this request or the Public Hearings may be obtained from the Planning & Community Development Department, 9875 N. 85th Avenue, Peoria, Arizona 85345, or by calling the Planning Department at 623-773-7200.

Agenda items:

Legends Senior Living: Variance (V22-02)

A public hearing to consider a variance request to setbacks and lot coverage for the Legends Senior Living group home located at 20424 N 98th Lane. The subject property is located within the 95th Avenue and Beardsley Road Planned Area Development (PAD) zoning district. More specifically, the variance request is for:

• A reduction of the rear yard setback from fifteen (15) feet to four (4) feet, eleven (11) inches;

• A reduction of the side yard setback from eight (8) feet to four (4) feet; and

• An increase in the maximum allowable lot coverage from forty-five (45) percent to 48.34% to allow for an addition to the principal structure.

Published in the Peoria Times, Dec 15, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE PROPOSALS FOR FY 2023-2024

On January 3, 2023, the City will begin accepting proposals for the use of HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and General Fund Not-for-Profit grants for the July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024 funding cycle. The City anticipates receiving CDBG funds of approximately $853,197 and a HOME Program allocation of approximately $275,546. The exact allocations will not be determined until finalized by the Federal Government. The City also anticipates General Fund monies of $196,500 to be available. The proposal submission deadline for agencies who wish to utilize these funds is January 23, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. Funds are anticipated to be available in July 2023, for General Fund programs and October 2023, for Federal programs.

All applicants will be required to submit proposals utilizing ZoomGrants, an on-line, cloud-based system.

Applicants interested in applying for grant funding must register with ZoomGrants in order to obtain a login and access to the City’s grant applications. A link to ZoomGrants and the applications will be available on the City’s website at www.peoriaaz.gov/notforprofitgrants beginning January 3, 2023.

Additional information may be obtained by writing to: City of Peoria Attn: Community Assistance Division 9875 N. 85th Avenue Peoria, Arizona 85345

Or by written e-mail to: communityassistance@peoriaaz.gov

Accommodations for individuals with disabilities - Alternative format materials, sign language interpretation, assistive listening devices or interpretation in languages other than English are available upon 72 hours advance notice through the City of Peoria’s Community Assistance Division, 9875 N. 85th Avenue, Peoria, AZ 85345; (623)7737601; TDD (623)773-7221, or email at communityassistance@peoriaaz.gov. Asistencia en español: Para que le interpreten la solicitud en español, llame al (623)773-7601.

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION HAVE BEEN FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE ARIZONA CORPORATION COMMISSION FOR I Name: WESBRIE PROPERTIES LLC II The address of the registered office is: 2 EAST CONGRESS ST. SUITE 900, TUCSON, AZ 85701 The name of the Statutory Agent is: LEGALCORP SOLUTIONS, LLC III Management of the Limited Liability Company is vested in a manager or managers. The names of each person who is a manager and each member who owns a twenty percent or greater interest in the capital or profits of the limited liability company are: MEMBER/MANAGERS/ ORGANIZERS: Name and address for each. IAN WILSON, 2 EAST CONGRESS ST. SUITE 900, TUCSON, AZ 85701

Published in the Peoria Times, Dec 8, 15, 22, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

Advertisement of Sale

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to the Arizona Self-Service Storage Act, Arizona Statutes 33-1704, Section H, and Enforcement of Lien. The Undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on or after December 22, 2022 at 9:00 am, using an online auction at www.storagetreasures.com. coms said property has been stored and located at Suncrest Mini Storage at 7410 W Peoria Ave, Peoria AZ. Property to be sold as follows:

Misc. household goods, personal items, furniture, clothing, toys and/, or business fixtures and items belonging to the following:

Tenant Name

Mohamed, Mohamed Unit # C280

Tomlinson, Anettia Unit # I510 Betoney, Davey Unit #RD220 Ledesma, Cicilia Unit #PP124

Sale subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Items sold “as is”, CASH ONLY, and Buyer must pay a security deposit and broom sweep/clean the unit. Published in the Peoria Times, Dec 8, 15, 2022

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EMPLOYMENT GENERAL

CONDOS/ TOWNHOMES

A

*publish in the Peoria Times, December 15, 2022, December 22, 2022, and December 29, 2022*

HIRING

Direct Support Professional, Lead Starting Salary Range $16.50-$17.50 per hour!

We offer Group Insurance Benefits, paid time off, 401K with employer match, and paid trainings.

Find Fulfilling work! Make a real difference with the work you do.

At this time, we are able to pay our quarterly bonuses to Direct Care Staff on top of their base starting hourly rate of $14-$15/ hour. This bonus is $2.50/hour paid quarterly bringing the pay rate equivalent to $16.50-$17.50/hour.

Apply online at www.aires.org

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