Ahwatukee Foothills News - December, 25 2019

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Are residences in Club West course’s future?

Yuletide carolers

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

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NOW RECRUITING

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CIRCUS CAMP

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he four men who walked away from a deal to buy Club West Golf Course have returned to the table and are presenting a plan to the homeowners association next month.

The quartet of investors also may ask the HOA board to have homeowners vote on changing the golf course’s covenants, conditions and restrictions – raising the possibility the plan includes residences of some kind on the course.

One source said the plan includes a number of key changes to the course that were outlined in an anonymous letter sent to at least 73 homeowners in November.

That letter – whose author has never been disclosed – said the plan involved reducing the 18-hole course to a nine-hole executive course; demolishing the current clubhouse in favor of a new one closer to Chandler Boulevard; and building some kind of housing on four holes as well as on the areas where the pond and clubhouse are currently situated.

The Club West Community Association Board’s most recent newsletter earlier this month announced that the course was again in escrow – only weeks after Matt Shearer, a Club West resident and one of the investors, announced that he and his three partners had walked away from buying the course from owner Wilson Gee for $800,000.

Shearer said an extensive examination of

see WEST page 7

Students from Inspire Kids Montessori in Ahwatukee sang their hearts out during a special holiday concert earlier this month at Kyrene de la Esperanza, where about 400 people turned out to hear them sing.

(Hartona Darmawaskita/Special to AFN)

Freeway noise, glare become the new normal for some

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

I

t didn’t take long for many Ahwatukee homeowners to realize that the relatively quiet dark desert nights they’ve enjoyed since moving in are gone forever, shattered by last Saturday’s opening of the Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway.

And they’re not just posting their complaints to social media. The Arizona Department of Transportation is getting them too.

“Over sound level,” a resident of the fairly new Promontory community wrote ADOT. “Thank you ADOT, 202 and Governor Ducey for absolutely shortchanging us. This is opening day and it has already progressively gotten worse. Thank you for turning our piece or paradise into HELL. We as of today no longer want to spend time in our back yard already! Merry Christmas to us.”

Dietmar Hanke, a resident of the nearby

see FREEWAY page 4

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

The Ahwatukee Foothills News is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Ahwatukee Foothills.

Times Media Group: 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219 Tempe, Arizona, 85282 Main number: 480-898-6500 Advertising: 480-898-5624 Circulation service: 480-898-5641

PUBLISHER Steve T. Strickbine

VICE PRESIDENT Michael Hiatt

ADVERTISING STAFF National Advertising Director Zac Reynolds 480-898-5603 zac@ahwatukee.com Advertising Sales Representatives: Karen Mays, 480-898-7909, kmays@ahwatukee.com Laura Meehan, 480-898-7904, lmeehan@ahwatukee.com Classified: Elaine Cota, 480-898-7926, ecota@ahwatukee.com Circulation Director: Aaron Kolodny 480-898-5641, customercare@ahwatukee.com

NEWS STAFF Executive Editor: Paul Maryniak, 480-898-5647, pmaryniak@ahwatukee..com GetOut Editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski, 480-641-4518, christina@timespublications.com Sports Editor: Zach Alvira 480-898-5630, zalvira@timespublications.com Copy Editor: April Morganroth 480-656-9667, amorganroth@timespublications.com Designer: Ruth Carlton - rcarlton@timespublications.com Production Coordinator: Courtney Oldham 480-898-5617 production@timespublications.com Reporters: Jim Walsh, 480-898-5639 jwalshe@ahwatukee.com Wayne Schutsky, 480-898-6533 wschutsky@timespublications.com Cecilla Chan. 480-898-5613, cchan@timespublications.com Ahwatukee Foothills News is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, and for subscription information, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@ azintegatedmedia.com.

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Mountain Pointe gifted academy now likely for 2021-22

49 YEARS OF TRUSTWORTHY SERVICE!

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

T

he Tempe Union Governing Board moved from the conceptual to reality last week by unanimously approving creation of a gifted academy at Mountain Pointe High School in the 2021-22 school year.

The academy would be geared for students who have tested in the top 3 percent of students in science, technology, engineering, arts or math, but whether it would be specifically labeled “gifted” is another question.

During a discussion of Superintendent Kevin Mendivil’s detailed study of the proposal, board member Andres Barraza was concerned that using the term “gifted” would create social-emotional problems for the students who are in the academy.

Noting that other students have told school officials they don’t like the term “at risk” because “They said, ‘It sounds like there’s something wrong with us,’” Barraza said: “Maybe you can make a name that’s our own – like ‘Junior Mensas’ or ‘The Leadership Academy’ – something that when we talk about them, we say, ‘you are Tempe Union Leadership,’ something where they can wear more like a badge.’”

Mendivil noted that branding the academy is just one of a number of tasks that include in-depth planning, identifying a group of freshmen for the first year, collaborate with educators in and outside the district who specialize in teaching gifted students and partnering with Arizona State University.

The board tasked Mendivil in September with investigating the possibility of creating a gifted program at Mountian Pointe after Ahwatukee attorney Don Fletcher and others urged a program in the district’s southern half that replicated the nearly 20-year-old Dr. Peggy Payne Academy at McClintock High School, which offers students “the benefits of specialized, rigorous Academy courses as well as the variety of high school offerings and experience,” according to a district description.

Mendivil said that while that academy is open to any qualifying student, 80 percent are from the northern part of the Tempe Union District.

The academy also will enable Tempe Union to shore up the district’s flagging enrollment by taking advantage of the opening of the new Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway, Mendivil said, noting it will be easier to attract students from Laveen and South Phoenix because of the quick access to Ahwatukee that the freeway promises those parts of the city.

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

see what we can do FREEWAY from page 1 about that.”

Foothills Reserve subdivision, wrote State Sen. Sean AFN: So the L202 opened at 2 p.m. By Bowie and Reps. Mit2:08 my dB meter registered 54 dB. zi Epstein and JenUp significantly from the normal 32 dB nifer Jermaine have noise level on my back porch. Peaks hit held several meet63 and 64 dB. That’s a 1000 time inings with ADOT officrease of the sound pressure on my ear cials in the past two drums. The meter registered 71 dB right months to discuss outside of (a neighbor’s) house. And all the lights issue. of this without any significant traffic yet.

Jermaine said she Can’t wait to hear the truck traffic when was told at a meeting that builds up.” two days before the Not all the immediate reaction to the freeway press confreeway was negative. ference that ADOT Others took to social media to complihad ordered light ment ADOT on the “beautiful freeway” shields but that the and praised it for coming in on budget. supplier was behind “I took it around today nice ride beauschedule in its delivtiful scenery,” said one resident while ery. another posted “It’s so nice” and another She said ADOT ofwrote, “Sweet!” ficials told her they Joining the press concerence Dec. 18 to salute completion of the But others expressed unhappiness, Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway were state Sen. Sean Bowie and Rep. had stressed to the noting, “extremely noisy back in the Jennifer Jermaine, who represent Ahwatukee. (Chris Mortenson/AFN Staff) supplier the urgenFoothills” – to which another resident cy of delivering the Even before the 22-mile freeway posted, “I know us too. Not any more. Reshields. opened, residents who expected the ally sad.”

Epstein said at one meeting in the fall, Added another: “It will be so much nic- noise have complained incessantly to “I recall that an ADOT leader had exer when they have all of the landscaping ADOT and members of the Legislative plained that the process for light shields done. The road looks patched in places. District 18 delegation about the glare of has been to put them up in a batch proI agree that’s its convenient but it seems the freeway’s lights. cess after they collect complaints from Asked by AFN about those complaints, neighborhoods. That is, the standard like they rushed to get it open. I can tell ADOT Director John Halikowsky said: you that it is loud from my backyard.” light installation process does not in“These are LED lights we put up and clude the light shields. That surprised me The glare from freeway lights and the unstoppable noise from what eventu- we’ve had some experience before where because by and large, I find ADOT to be ally will grow to a predicted minimum we put them in and they are too bright trying very hard to help neighbors have a of 114,000 vehicles a day – half of them and it has to do with the temperature of good quality of life near highways.” trucks bypassing downtown Phoenix be- the lights. And where they have been too “When I heard ADOT folks say that they tween the West 59th Avenue and Chan- bright at a 4,000 Kelvin level, we’ve gone were waiting to install the light shields, I dler interchanges of I-10 – confirmed the down to a 3,000 level. said something to the gist of ‘As represen“So, we’re looking into a combination tative of the people in Ahwatukee living worst fears of people living in parts of of the light brightness and shielding to along the highway, and for all Arizonans Ahwatukee closest to the freeway. who live along highways, please stop that. Doesn’t it make more sense to just put up the light shields every time you install a light, if there is a neighborhood there? When houses are nearby, the light shields are needed and families should not have to wait.”

In photos and emails, residents complained of their backyards awash in light in the dead of night from the freeway lights.

“The good news is that now, with all of the freeway lights on, you don’t need any light to read a newspaper in your backyard at night,” said Hanke of his The Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway’s sound wall ends before it completely would have passed the Promontory Foothills Reserve home. community on the right.

“Memories of living in El Se(Tom Sanfilippo/InsideOut Aerial)

gundo next to LAX are stirring in my gray matter.”

While the noise likely has become a permanent part of life along the freeway, residents in Calabria and Promontory at the far western end of Ahwatukee have been pressing ADOT about its decision not to extend the sound wall farther west.

Larry Koenen, who moved from Illinois into his Promontory home in May 2018, has waged an ongoing email battle with ADOT and freeway design-builder Connect202Partners for months to no avail.

He said he knew a freeway would be located less than a half mile from his home in Promontory, a 105-home community overlooking the freeway that has been so popular that Taylor-Morrison has sold all but five homes since opening it less than two years ago.

“I was told I could trust ADOT when it came to the noise,” Koenen told AFN. But Koenen and his neighbors discovered that noise was but one problem the freeway would cause.

And after dozens of exchanges with Connect202Partners and ADOT, Koenen said, the highway agencies “can’t tell the truth to save their lives.”

Last month, he emailed Halikowski and other state and Phoenix officials, writing: “In the 18 months as an Arizonan, the state (and by proxy of yourselves) gifted us with blasting, crushing, lighting and construction traffic in the subdivision,” he wrote. “We have been plagued with gawking, detours and even full road closures. And we endured it because we trusted you.”

Instead of following its initial plan to extend the sound wall past Promontory and into the mountains where no homes exist, Connect202Partners ended it at a point barely halfway parallel to Promontory – exposing homeowners to the glare of eastbound freeway traffic and doing nothing to muffle the noise, they said.

Connect202 told Koenen and other Promontory residents that its sound engineers determined that the noise in the section of the freeway with no sound wall is below a 62-decibel threshold – the maximum permissible level before sound suppression would be required by law.

ADOT and Connect202Partners also said they would send sound engineers back once the freeway opened to determine if the noise got worse.

In a Nov. 6 email to Promontory homeowners, Connect202Partners community liaison Gabriella Kemp also wrote that the consortium of contractors was with-

see FREEWAY page 11

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NEWS

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

Freeway opens, of�icials cheer

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

T

hough billed as an announcement

by Governor Doug Ducey as an event to unveil the opening date for the Congressman Ed Pastor Freeway, the gathering last week on one of its new Salt River Bridges was more a celebration built around an uncertainty.

None of the speakers during the 40 minutes or so of speeches mentioned a date.

And when AFN asked Arizona Department of Transportation Director John Halikowsky afterward when the freeway would finally be open, all he would say is, “Soon.”

And three days after the Dec. 18, the long-awaited, long-planned and – for some Ahwatukee residents – long-dreaded freeway opened to traffic early Saturday afternoon, Dec. 21.

“You know, we’re committed to opening by the end of the year,” he vowed during the celebration on Dec. 18. “We’re just finishing up some final details and we have a final inspection to go through now.”

“Our inspectors, our technicians will be taking a look at all of the features and mak-

an actual opening date, the mood on the Salt River span Dec. 18 was celebratory as several speakers hailed completion of Arizona’s largest highway project in history.

Even Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis was jubilant as he stood next to Ducey.

Although he did not speak address the crowd, which included members of Pastor’s family, Lewis indicated Arizona Department of Transportation Director John Halikowsky, left, he had put behind him addresses the crowd as Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis looks on. (Chris Mortenson/AFN Staff Photographer) his community’s bitter three-year court fight ing sure everything’s done the way that it’s to stop the freeway. supposed to be done.”

Asked by AFN how he felt about the ADOT spokesman Tom Herrmann subopening despite that fight, Lewis said, sequently said that work included “the last “We’re connected – that’s the takeaway of step in the paving process. “The rubber today.

You know, we’re connected and it’s friction course has yet to be placed and the about moving forward.” reflectors will be placed once that’s done.”

“What we’re looking at now is the other Despite the uncertainty that surrounded big issue, the I-10 widening. That 22-mile

stretch is the last stretch of the I-10 that’s four lanes it’s the most dangerous in the nation. And so, we’ve have to get that.”

He was referring to the community’s ongoing negotiations with ADOT to widen to six lanes the stretch of I-10 between the Queen Creek Interchange and Casa Grande.

Asked about the Pastor Freeway’s impact on his community, Lewis said it “definitely” would be significant, but declined to elaborate.

The Gila River Indian Community is already getting a significant development directly from ADOT in the form of an additional freeway ramp that will lead right to its Vee Quiva Casino.

That ramp and the freeway interchange at 32nd Street in Ahwatukee will be completed by next July at an additional cost of $1 million each.

Connecting the Chandler and West 59th Avenue interchanges on I-10, the 22-mile, eight-lane Pastor Freeway cost about $1.7 billion.

Ducey and Halikowsky said it could have cost millions more if it had not been for the

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NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

WEST from page 1

the course during the due diligence period led the quartet to decide, “Unfortunately, we do not believe the course can be saved as a sustainable jewel of our community.”

But the board’s quarterly newsletter last week delivered a stunning announcement: “Late last week, on December 12th, we learned that the course is again in escrow. The potential buyers are the same group as the last escrow and appear to have resolved many of their challenges.

We do not know the exact closing date.

We have been told that they want to close by early March.”

“They are preparing a presentation and will communicate their plans to us,” the announcement stated. “All plans require an approval of the board and vote of the community.”

Shearer told AFN, “We realize that no one solution to revitalize the course in a sustainable manner will satisfy everyone. For the successful resurrection of Club West, we need the community to understand the facts and review the data.

“We have been researching every aspect involved in saving Club West for at least four years and have placed conditions on ourselves that we feel align with

the many conversations we have had within the community.

“We will continued working to resolve remaining issues in an expeditious manner. We will close escrow once those issues are resolved and we have necessary approvals from the HOA Board, our community and our city.”

Shearer said he and his partners had backed out of the deal last month because “we were not on a number of issues prior to the expiration of the last escrow.”

He also said they returned to the table with Gee after “we were encouraged by neighbors and the community to present what we know and what can be done.”

On Friday, the board followed told homeowners how it will proceed with handling the investors’ plan once they present it at a meeting Jan. 16.

“There will not be a vote about the plan at this meeting nor a scheduled Q and A. We will have a lot of questions as a board and expect questions from the attendees,” the board said, telling residents they will be able to fill out forms with questions and comments that will be addressed before its Feb. 20 meeting.

It went on to say that at the Feb. 20 meeting, the board will first decide whether “to present the buyer’s plan for

the course to the community or request a revised plan based on additional input from the board.”

“The board vote is only the first step in the approval process, the announcement went on to say.

“If the board decides the buyer’s plan is not ready for a community vote, the buyers will be required to submit a new plan based on the boards and communities’ concerns and inputs. Any new plan would require new open meeting presentation, preparation and a vote etc.”

The board said that if it approves the plan, it would then schedule a special meeting where homeowners would cast ballots to decide the plan’s fate.

Unlike the requirements for changing the CC&Rs governing the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course – another site owned

by Gee that has lapsed into a barren piece of desert – a majority vote of all homeowners is not required to change Club West Golf Course’s land use regulations.

Club West’s board in late summer adopted new rules require only 31 percent of the ballots must be cast for a simple majority vote to change the CC&Rs. That means that if the Club West HOA board follows through with a special meeting to vote on the investors’ plan, it could pit the 357 owners of homes adja-

see WEST page 8

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cent to the course against the rest of Club West’s approximate 2,400 homeowners.

Many homeowners are tired of seeing the barren course and could decide that homes with properly landscaped lots would be preferable to the current course’s condition.

Of the 357 houses next to the course, 73 are located next to the four holes that the anonymous letter claimed were eyed for residences.

The anonymous letter never said what kind of residences were being considered.

But a source said that while the letter’s author remains a mystery, the letter itself “turns out that it contained more truth than fiction” when it comes to the current suitors’ plans.

The letter noted that even if homeowners opted for the investors’ plan, the City of Phoenix would have some involvement in any housing proposal.

Gee told AFN that he has no idea what the prospective buyers want to do.

“They haven’t disclosed what they’re doing to it,” he said, adding that he decided to allow them back into escrow because he doesn’t have any other suitors for the course and because they had

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

WEST from page 7

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backed out mainly because they couldn’t meet his timeline.

HOA Board President Mike Hinz said, “I’m not altogether certain what it is they intend to fully propose and we’re going to wait to talk about that when we see it on Jan. 16.”

“All of this is going to be done in open meeting,” he stressed. “We’re not going to do anything behind closed doors.”

Attorney Ellen Davis, who paid an extra $60,000 for the lot when she bought her Club West house next to the course, expressed concern about that 31 percent in an interview with AFN last month.

She said that homeowners who don’t front the course could determine its future at the expense of those who paid higher lot prices to have a view of the course, noting only 416 votes were needed to approve a change in the CC&Rs. When he and his partners initially gave up on buying the course before a November closing deadline, Shearer said, “We invested significantly in our research, hiring hydrologists, irrigation consultants, surveyors, planners, soil experts and renowned golf course and clubhouse architects.”

“As more time passes, saving the course becomes more difficult and prohibitively expensive,” he said in a statement in November, adding he and his partners wanted “to create a sustainable, challenging but playable, 18-hole course with a beautiful clubhouse and community golf center.”

But they apparently discovered the same thing that another group of local investors encountered earlier this year when they considered buying the course

from Gee: any golf course at Club West needs a cheaper source of water.

Gee stopped irrigation in June 2016, saying he could not afford the $750,000 he spent annually on city water bills.

That water is only getting more expensive as the city is hiking rates by 5 percent next year and another 5 percent in 2021.

Gee had sold the course to Richard Breuninger’s Inter Tribal Golf Association in 2017 and for about four months, the course was covered with lush green grass.

But Breuninger stopped paying the water bill and the city turned off the tap.

He eventually went broke and Gee foreclosed on his unpaid $1 million note.

In numerous chats on social media in November after Gee’s latest deal collapse, residents expressed fears that the investors’ plan was only the beginning of the end for the Club West Golf Course.

They noted that even a nine-hole course would still require water.

“There has been and remains only one impediment to returning the golf course to profitability - access to affordable water. Any plan that ignores this fact is likely to fail,” wrote Jim Lindstrom.

Ahwatukee businessman Rande Leonard has proposed pipeline that would run from the Gila River Indian Reservation, beneath the freeway and up to 24th Street. The golf course owner would have to pony up around $1.3 million for the pipeline to become a reality.

Lindstrom, who declined comment on the latest developments, said only a course with 18 holes would merit that cost because a nine-hole course would not attract enough golfers to make it profitable. and the pipeline investment pay off.

Homeowners withdraw Lakes contempt hearing request AFN NEWS STAFF

T

he attorney for two homeowners suing for the restoration of the Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course has withdrawn his request to proceed with a contempt hearing against owner Wilson Gee. Attorney Tim Barnes’s abrupt withdrawal of the petition to Superior Court means that any further action in the case will depend on whether the Arizona Supreme Court accepts Gee’s appeal from a lower-court ruling directing he restore the course.

Barnes had initially told Superior Court that the Supreme Court case should have no bearing on his clients’ demands that Gee

be ordered to restore the course he closed in 2013.

Barnes declined comment when asked why he withdrew the motion.

Gee’s lawyers have asked to review a decision by the Arizona Court of Appeals that upheld land use regulations requiring a golf course on the 101-acre site.

The Supreme Court must first decide whether to accept that review – and it won’t be deciding that until Barnes files a response to Gee’s attorneys.

The delay means that it will be sometime next year before any further action in the case occurs. If the high court agrees to consider the case, it could take months for a resolution.

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

GIFTED from page 9

public school districts in Arizona and across the country as a strategy to compete with charter schools that offer rigorous academic instruction.

For example, Kyrene Middle School in Tempe is in the second year of meeting requirements to become an International Baccalaureate school by 2020-21. The IB program is designed to motivate students through international education and rigorous assessment in all subjects, including a required foreign language.

Mendivil last week cited Kyrene’s SPARK program at Manitas Elementary in Tempe, where ASU is working with that district’s teachers to provide students in third and fourth grade with what the district calls “innovative practices in learning environments, methods and staffing.”

SPARK is an acronym for “student-centered, project-based achieving real world

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and knowledge.”

SPARK provides “really a great basis for us to kind of catapult and emulate these areas of priority” with the new gifted academy, Mendivil told the board.

Only a total of 23 people appeared at the two town halls Mendivil conducted this fall within the Kyrene District to get input from parents and test reaction to the proposal.

But Mendivil said 22 of them were “very, very interested” in the concept.

“One parent didn’t like the idea of having a separate program that’s considered elitist and that kind of a thing,” Mendivil said. “And while I totally respect that parent’s opinion of that, there’s a lot of research that says that we need to focus.

There’s very, very specific instruction and planning and attention that goes to that true 97th percentile gifted kid.”

Mendivil said he would like to include a mentorship component in the Mountain

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kids are extraordinarily bright and what I liked about it, it’s very interdisciplinary and um, very inquiry-based.”

He also said parents stressed to him the need for “a gifted counselor and gifted coordinator with that collaboration that benefits students and families. So, what we learned was a desire, a true desire for true differentiated instruction for that 97th percentile gifted student and have courses that reflect that kind of specialization.”

Mendivil said another part of his indepth planning will be developing professional development programs for teachers in honors and advanced placement courses now going on at six of Tempe Union’s seven campuses.

Such professional development would be aimed at ensuring teachers “can better provide more rigor in rigorous instruction, a differentiated experience within those programs.”

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He said mentors come from various businesses and other walks of life. He recalled that one day a zoologist from the Phoenix Zoo led a class and “the kids were just immersed in the questioning.

And it was very much in line with the project that they were working on at the time.”

The SPARK program allows students to be exposed to similar experts from other fields.

As for the type of program, that’s where ASU comes in.

Mendivil said he spent a lot fo time studying and observing students in the Gary Herberger Young Scholars Academy on the ASU campus that is run by the Mary K. Fulton Teachers Ciollege.

“I’m just immensely impressed with what they’re doing,” he said. “It’s a highly engaging learning environment. These

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unique public-private partnership whose design-build approach to the freeway’s construction cut as much as three years off the length of construction.

“ADOT is fortunate for its strong partnerships that have helped guide us in the planning, design, and development phases,” Halikowsky told the crowd.

“We’ve had a solid team that helped move this project forward every step of the way.”

Ducey said the freeway symbolized Arizona’s commitment to growth.

“More people choose Arizona,” he said.

“We’re making sure our infrastructure remains some of the best in America.”

He called the freeway a “big step forward in connecting the East Valley and the West Valley and an alternative to the I-10 and the Broadway loop through downtown Phoenix. This project is the result of an innovative public private partnership that will save Arizona taxpayers more than $100 million.”

Ducey also pointed out that he had allocated $6 million “to hire new DPS patrol officers to be on this project.”

He also hailed the freeway’s namesake, calling Pastor “someone who worked every day to bring people together and he was a champion of improving critical infrastructure across our nation.”

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego gave the longest speech, stating it is “a personal point of pride” that the entire freeway is within city limits “so, our city is now a stronger and more connected city. But we know that this will help us have better relationships and connectivity with our neighbors as well.”

She drew some laughs when she noted that planning for the freeway began in 1983 – a year before state Sen. Sean Bowie was born. Bowie and Rep. Jennifer Jermaine, whose district includes Ahwatukee, were on hand but didn’t speak.

Gallego also said it was “vitally important that all stakeholders had this collaborative approach and stayed open to new ideas” during the freeway planning process.

“For example, early on, the city of Phoenix had some concerns about interchanges where the roadway was going over the freeway instead of at ground level. We felt that our communities on both sides of the freeway would be better connected with ground-level roadways and ADOT worked with us to address that and help us build connected communities and strengthen ties on both sides of the freeway.

“That has also allowed us to do some advanced construction work and try to speed up so that as the freeway opens more and more businesses will be able to open as soon as possible,” she added,

noting she was delighted that the freeway enabled Harkins Theater to build a movie house closer to her home.

Tempe Mayor Mark Mitchell, who is this year’s chairman of the Maricopa Association of Governments – a key player in getting the freeway approved by voters in 1985 and partially financing it – also was jubilant.

“I worked tirelessly over the three decades to see this moment really come to fruition,” Mitchell said. “it will see more than 100,000 cars a day and save significant travel time, not only for folks using this new freeway, but because they are bypassing the majority of Phoenix,” Mitchell said, predicting it “will also create important new economic opportunities” since half of all population and economic growth in the near future in the county will occur in its southwest and southeast quadrants.”

Echoing that sentiment, Federal Highway Administration Division Administrator Karla Petty said, “This segment of the Loop 202 will provide faster and easier access between the East and West Valley cities while making it more convenient for residents to access other parts of the Valley for work, shopping, education and entertainment.”

“The benefits of this project are significant and we will see them for years to come,” she added. “They will be enjoyed by residents, the business community and the regional commuters. This segment of the Loop 202 will provide faster and easier access between the East and West Valley cities while making it more convenient for residents to access other parts of the Valley for work, education, shopping and entertainment.”

Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill agreed, telling the crowd, “Today is really a game changer for Arizona business.”

“We’re going to going forward in creating hundreds of thousands of jobs for Arizona’s and creating those opportunities and it’s fantastic. What’s really fantastic is just seeing the public and private partnership that’s come together between the Gila River Indian Community, the state of Arizona, Federal Highway Administration, MAG and the city of Phoenix,” Bidwill added.

Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke said his cioy has been preparing for the freeway’s opening for months because it gives his city a chance to tap into the potential job market in the West Valley to fill hundreds of openings in Chandler.

“There’s a very qualified workforce out there, whether it’s plumbers, electricians, carpenters or engineers,” Hartke told the AFN saying newer companies that have settled in Chandler “are super-excited about this freeway opening.”

NEWS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

FREEWAY from page 4

in its right to terminate the sound wall where it did.

“The modifications to the noise wall are compliant with the noise policy and are allowed under the Design-Build Maintain Agreement (DBMA) with C202P.” Kemp wrote. “The DBMA also allows C202P to make reasonable changes during final design throughout the project corridor, all of which are reviewed by ADOT to verify all environmental commitments are met.”

When Koenen suggested that ADOT delay the freeway opening until the wall issue was resolved, Kemp replied: “The project was approved by Maricopa County voters in 1985 and reaffirmed in 2004 as part of a comprehensive regional transportation plan. ADOT has undergone extensive environmental reviews to deliver this long-awaited project to the traveling public. That said, the State will not delay the opening of the project.”

Asked about the noise complaints, Halikowsky told AFN last week, “We’re aware of the issue and we’ve taken some measurements so far. I’ve talked with the engineers and we will continue to look at this. We’ll have a better idea after it opens up the traffic, but we’ll continue to take a look at that and see how that pro-

as crews burrowed through three mountain peaks has disturbed the neighborhood’s peace and quiet.

And when crews weren’t crushing rock, they were blasting their way through the mountainous terrain.

And that blasting also has resulted in cracks in some of their walls, garage floors and walks and driveways, residents said.

Koenen and others have had so many meetings and email exchanges with ASDOT and Connect202 that MoniPromontory resident Monica Barnett’s backyard - like those of ca Barnett complained, dozens of other Ahwatukee residents - are awash with light at night “I didn’t realize I would from the freeway’s lights. (Special to AFN) have a full-time job that cess develops.”

I’m not getting paid for trying to get people Asked what it would have cost to exwho are getting paid to do the right thing.” tend the wall in the first place, he replied, Several homeowners have been ask“You know, I don’t that figure.” ing for claims forms for damages to their Promontory residents have put up new homes. with noise long before the first set of “Every single wall in my house has tires started rolling across the freeway. cracks and every single window has sepFor months, they said, the seemingly arate,” Barnett wrote officials a month endless sounds of rock being crushed ago. “These are not settling cracks. This

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is all due to blasting as they were not there before. “ “I guess we are just too naïve and wanted to have faith that everything ADOT and 202Partners put out there for everyone to believe that they are working for the betterment of the people,” Barnett added.

Their frustration has grown to the point where they asked ADOT and Connect202Partners to buy their houses.

“I think it is time that the state, having perpetrated a bait-and-switch of monumental proportions, should offer those of us who are wanting to take it a guaranteed buy out at face value of the full investment made in the homes we have (including improvements) with a stipend to cover moving and closing costs on both ends,” Koenen wrote. “I am sure it won’t cost much over $2-4 million and it is the right thing to do for the folks upon which this was perpetrated.”

Kemp replied, “ADOT has completed all right-of-way acquisitions for this project and has no plans to purchase additional parcels.”

“It is unfortunate you feel ADOT has not been transparent, as that is not the case,” she added. “We strive to maintain the highest level of integrity. We are accountable to the people of Arizona and, as such, must be diligent in our decision making.”

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Aerial yoga a hit at Copper Moon studio

BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor

A

hwatukee resident and business owner Anna Ebert finds flipping upside down on a daily basis a freeing practice she said almost makes her feel like a kid again.

Ebert is not alone as a growing number of locals, ages 5 to 70, are choosing aerial yoga at Ahwatukee’s Copper Moon Yoga, calling it an exhilarating way to relax and heal.

The aerial yoga classes are popular with men and women, who dangle from the soft fabric aerial hammocks in one of Copper Moon Yoga’s three rooms set aside exclusively for aerial yoga.

Most participants combine aerial yoga with other yoga classes.

Copper Moon Yoga, owned by Tina Trevino, opened in December 2018.

Aerial yoga was offered from opening day, and is now one of more than 50 yoga and pilates classes taught at the studio,

Copper Moon Yoga in Ahwatukee offers a wide variety of yoga classes that enable people to stretch deeper.

(Facebook)

4825 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee.

Ebert, who owns Funnel Cake Social Media – a social media education company with clients nationwide – said she has included aerial yoga as a regular part of her own daily exercise routine.

“I’ve been practicing traditional yoga and aerial yoga at the studio almost daily now since August, and it’s something I look forward to every day,” said Ebert, an 11-year Ahwatukee resi-

dent.

“In addition to a new mental and physical challenge, aerial yoga literally shakes up your workout and frees you to almost be a kid again,” she explained.

“I own a business and work from home, so mentally, whether it’s the middle of my workday, or the end of it, inverting and flipping upside down is a fantastic mental reset to literally see things from a new perspective and clear my head.”

She said the aerial yoga classes enabled her to tackle her aversion to inversions in other yoga classes – which had been a stumbling block.

“It’s helped me remove the fear I had surrounding inversions, so it’s helped my regular yoga practice expand, too. Another aspect of aerial yoga I love is the ability to stretch deeper.

“Like many, I carry tension in my shoulders that can lead to migraines, and I find the deeper stretch I can safely achieve in

�ee YOGA page 16

Volunteer army helps Feed My Starving Children

BY JEFF ROSENFIELD AFN Contributor

F

rom 2005 to 2015, world hunger was decreasing, but now it is once again on the rise.

The Mesa packing station for Feed My Starving Children – one of the nonprofit’s largest facilities – is actively combating the problem by producing more than a million meals a week, Brian Hetzer, volunteer program supervisor at FMSC Mesa said.

A huge volunteer base created over the last 10 years gets the job done, Hetzer said.

“The primary source of ongoing volunteers really has been word of mouth,” he said. “At least half of our volunteers on a regular basis are returning.”

Sometimes he reaches out to churches, schools and businesses, but mostly volunteers step up on their own, he said.

Volunteers at Feed My Starving Children’s Mesa food-packing facility perform a variety of tasks, including sealing bags that contain meals. (Special to the Tribune)

And they return often for a variety of reasons.

Sire manager Bill Major said the best way to get volunteers in the door and keep them coming back is to make it the best volunteer experience in the East Valley and engaging them as soon as they walk through the door.

Volunteers begin with an orientation where a staff member educates them on the organization’s mission and success stories. They are taught food safety and how to pack Feed My Starving Children’s trademarked MannaPack meal bags.

Then, volunteers will be taken back to wash hands, put on gloves and begin bagging and boxing food.

Volunteers in groups up to 12 gather around long tables strategically arranged in a U-shape. Others bring ingredients and boxes to tables.

On each side of the table, a volunteer

�ee STARVING page 14

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holds a bag underneath a funnel while another pours one cup of white rice and vitamin powder. Then, the bag is passed to the next person to be weighed.

“Each bag has to weigh between 300480 grams,” Hetzer said.

If a bag is heavier, the volunteer will use a provided spoon to remove some rice. If it is too light, they will add more rice.

While these functions can be handled by children, an adult must handle the next step: each bag must be sealed, then boxed.

After the two-hour session ends, volunteers and staff regroup in the main room where had orientation. They are applauded by staff and told how many boxes they packed, how many children they fed and for how long, Hetzer said.

“Because you chose to come and here pack food for two hours, you changed the lives of 140 kids,” Hetzer tells volunteers.

Many businesses and groups use the packing sessions as team-building events, Hetzer said.

“Just yesterday we had Southwest Airlines here,” he said. “We had over 100 Southwest employees.”

Hetzer also said the Mesa Police Department will come in with full-gear to package food.

Other common volunteer groups are from Allstate, Humana, Wells Fargo, various schools from the Chandler and Mesa school districts, and fraternities at Arizona State University, Hetzer said.

Special needs groups will also attend sessions, he said.

“They will be primarily our label group,” Hetzer said.

Lauren Clay, Daniel Ariel and Tristan McDannel were part of a group of volunteers from Wells Fargo in Chandler.

All three have volunteered with other organizations before: McDannel with HALO Animal Rescue, Ariel with Dumb Friends League animal shelter; and Clay as a “carebear” at Sun Lakes of Arizona Community.

But all three said they prefer volunteering at Feed My Starving Children Mesa.

“I like that anyone can do it,” Clay said.

Young children, even under 5, participate by pouring ingredients into the bags, Hetzer said.

Although Feed My Starving Children is a Christian organization, it does not exclude people of other or no faiths, Hetzer said.

“It is a religious organization, but it doesn’t feel exclusionary,” Ariel said.

“It’s a lot livelier,” McDannel said.

Dwayne Lewis, a student at Mesa Com-

munity College, has packaged food with Feed My Starving Children Mesa six times.

He enjoys how other volunteers communicate and help each other when they need it, he said.

The largest limitation Feed My Starving Children faces is funding, Hetzer said.

“At packing sessions, we ask for donations because all of our food is donated,” Hetzer said.

Without donations, Feed My Starving Children cannot purchase ingredients or pay for shipping, Hetzer said.

There also are never enough volunteers. The number can fluctuate weekly and can leave 50 to 60 spots open in a volunteer group, Hetzer said.

Still, the gaps do not make a major difference as the volunteers who are on hand often pick up the pace. Hence, Hetzer does not have to recruit many volunteers often, he said.

And when he does need volunteers, he said he contacts churches and affiliates of Feed My Starving Children.

The five staff members also do not have much time to get to know the 200 volunteers very well in every two-hour session, he said.

During sessions, staffers assist volunteers and during the 30 minute period between sessions, they replenish supplies and finish any cleaning that volunteers may not have completed properly, such as wiping down tables or sweeping, Hetzer said.

But Hetzer believes volunteers return regardless because of the kids they feed, he said.

During one of the debrief sessions, 200 people produced in two hours enough food to feed 140 kids for a year, Hetzer said.

“The reality is where else can you spend two hours of your day and change lives like that?”

Hetzer said he discovered that people have a “human desire to help the less fortunate,” something he said is especially noticeable during the holiday season when the packing sessions are “booked.”

Usually around holiday seasons, people want to give back and because kids are out of school, Hetzer said.

Hetzer believes Feed My Starving Children is successful for two main reasons: a “simple” mission of feeding kids and a “fun and rewarding,” family-friendly means of achieving it, he said.

Hetzer said many parents take their children to volunteer to combat “selfish” tendencies, noting: “Parents want kids to be thankful for what they have.”

DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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RODEO from page 13

aerial yoga while supported by the hammocks offers tremendous relief. And you do get spoiled once you’ve experienced a decadent savasana in the hammocks,” she said, referring to the final resting yoga pose with arms and legs akimbo.

“I’m grateful we live in a community where so many fitness options are available, and I encourage everyone to try an aerial yoga class to see if it’s a fit for them,” she said.

Even as aerial yoga has people exercising in one of 12 hammocks made of two-way stretch lycra fabric and hanging from the ceiling, it doesn’t require experience in acrobatics.

“I know there’s sometimes a misconception aerial yoga means you have to be Cirque du Soleil-ready, and there are so many talented people at that level, but I love Copper Moon makes aerial yoga safely accessible for many aerial yoga levels,” said Ebert, adding: “I don’t know that I’ve ever been in other workout classes where there’s everyone from elementary school kids to senior citizens, and we’re all bonded by the joy of flipping life upside down.”

Kevin DeFoe of Chandler is a regular at Copper Moon Yoga – and has been since it opened. He is often accompanied by his daughters Jayden and Brooklyn, 14 and 13 respectively.

The girls often frequent aerial yoga.

Their dad is a self-proclaimed fan of the Hot Flow classes and the Mercury Sculpt Yoga class, which includes optional free weights.

“I do take aerial classes now and then, and highly recommend men and women take any of Copper Moon’s classes depending on what they want to accomplish. For me, I like the hot classes to help with losing weight, cleansing and muscle stretching,” DeFoe said.

Director of Operations at the Gilbert office of H.K. Techfloor, DeFoe said ongoing back and shoulder issues led him to yoga.

“Since I’ve started yoga, I no longer have the back issues, and sleep much better at night,” he said, adding: “After a long day at work I can take an evening class and it gives me that hour to just relax and focus on my body and relieve the stress from the day. Aerial yoga is not only fun to do, it helps with the stretching and builds strength throughout the body.”

He takes three to five classes weekly, saying he’d “take more if I could.”

Trevino, an Arizona native, said she decided on her business name, Copper Moon Yoga, for several reasons.

Aerial yoga doesn’t require experience in acrobatics. Nor does it necessarily involve swinging in the hammocks suspended from the ceiling.

(Copper Moon Yoga)

“Copper is a living metal transforming itself and transfers energy, and it is also an ode to Arizona where I’m lucky to be from,” she explained.

“We also have Bisbee turquoise blue in our logo to represent Arizona. And the moon? The moon has a constant influence on us whether we are aware of it or not; I’ve always been fascinated by this stealthy power.”

With her mother Christine Trevino of Tempe as a silent partner, Tina opened Copper Moon Yoga in December 2018.

“I’ve always known I wanted to own a studio and have one with multiple rooms. We have the aerial room, the radiant heat room for hot yoga classes, and the unheated room for most other classes including mat work, chair yoga and pilates,” she said. “I really believe anybody of any age can practice and benefit from yoga.”

Tina Trevino began her yoga experience while living on the islands of Oahu and Maui in Hawaii.

She took her yoga teacher training in Las Vegas where she said there is a huge and active yoga community.

She knew she wanted to offer aerial

yoga as a class option after she’d experienced it herself.

“I’d taken a few aerial yoga classes in 2017 and they’d intrigued me. In my personal yoga practice, I felt I’d plateaued, and with aerial I felt I was able to go deeper, exceeding those places I had already been.”

Copper Moon Yoga has 10 teachers, one of whom is ‘Yogi Michael’ – aka Michael Warner, who had his own yoga business in Ahwatukee in 2006-2009 before moving out of state. He returned to the Valley after his grandmother’s health began failing.

His own introduction to yoga was in 1999, following a serious injury interrupting a nascent soccer career.

“I was on track for playing for the Seattle Sounders but then had a terrible plantaris muscle injury,” he explained.

“My self-esteem was depleted, and then I found this new form of movement where I could still be somewhat competitive, but yet in a beautiful way,” said Warner, adding that he teaches various yoga classes daily but gravitates “toward the more restorative.”

Trevino said all ages can use yoga as

an exercise, and Copper Moon Yoga’s Mini Moonbeams Yoga is proof of the early introduction.

Here, children ages 5 to 10 learn to cultivate self-health and “inner fulfillment” in a fun and energetic atmosphere.

Copper Moon’s 75-minute aerial yoga or yoga parties have also proved to be a popular draw for children, teens and adults. The studio is also available to rent for other events.

A schedule of monthly classes is available on their website CopperMoonYoga. com A new client promotion, ‘30 days for $30’ offers an introduction to all classes offered. An option for private instruction is also possible.

Ebert joins other clients in her praise for Copper Moon, owner Tina Trevino and her staff.

“Tina provides such a Zen environment, and she and her team are incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about what they do,” Ebert said. “I appreciate that Tina really listens to students, and continuously adds new class levels and instructors to meet our needs.”

Information: CopperMoonYoga.com and Facebook.

DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

AROUND AHWATUKEE

Desert Vista basketball cheer clinic slated for girls 4 through eighth grade

Girls age 4 through eighth grade can learn cheers, chants, jumps and dance from Desert Vista High School cheerleaders at a clinic noon-4 p.m. Jan. 11 at the high school, 16440 S. 32nd Street, Ahwatukee.

Participants will be invited to perform during half-time of a Desert Vista High School varsity basketball game Jan. 17.

Fee is $35 for preregistration and $40 the day of the clinic. The fee includes instruction, cheer clinic t-shirt, spirit poms, refreshments, and admission for one adult to attend the Jan. 17 game.

Registration at tuhsdonlinereg.com. Click Camps/Clinics, then Click Camps/Clinics at Desert Vista, then Desert Vista Cheer Camp/Clinic, then Register.

Or go to bit.ly/DVCheerClinic On the day of camp, a parent or guardian must sign a liability release. Middle school Students must provide a copy of a current physical, but K-5 students do not need a current physical.

Information: Christie Ellis at Christie@ChristieEllis.com or 480-201-3575.

Zumba fitness class at Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center starts Jan. 7

The Ahwatukee Community Swim, Tennis & Event Center, 4700 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee, is holding Zumba and Zumba Toning fitness classes 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays beginning Jan. 7.

Zumba involves dance and aerobic movements performed to energetic music. Zumba toning uses toning sticks and targets the abs, thighs, arms, and other major muscles. Zumba classes provide participants with both a cardio workout and strength training.

The class is designed for all levels and ages. People can drop-in or use a fitness punch card: $9 drop-in, four visits, $32, 10 visits, $75 or 20 visits, $140.

Class is led by Simone G, a certified Zumba instructor since 2012. Information: 480-893-3431 Ext. 3 or ahwatukeecommunitycenter.com

Tempe Union begins 60-day review for science and CTE textbooks

Tempe Union High School District has begun a 60-day review period for the public of new science and Career & Technical Education (CTE) textbooks for use during the 2020-2021 school year.

The board last week tentatively adopted the new texts, based on the recommendation by each subject area’s respective Textbook Committee, comprising teachers, parents, students and staff members.

The textbooks will be available in the lobby of the district office, 500 W. Guadalupe Road, Tempe, during regular business hours through Feb. 19.

Information: Brent Brown, Director of Instructional Services at 480-839-0292.

conducting annual Blankets & Bears drive – the 20th it has held to benefit kids. The beneficiary this year is the Cardon Children’s Hospital at Banner Desert Hospital.

Previous beneficiaries have included Phoenix Fire Station # 38; Cardon Children’s Hospital; ER at Banner Desert (now Cardon Children’s, Mesa Fire and the Child Crisis Center.

New knitted, crocheted and fleece blankets of all kinds are needed. (If they are too large or inappropriate for a child, they will be donated to the homeless). Crib size or smaller is preferred but there is a need for any size.

Stuffed animals must be new, soft and cuddly and something that a child can hold and carry.

Donations are accepted at the dining room of Ahwatukee Country Club, 48th Street and Warner Road, 32 S 48th Street, Ahwatukee. Items will be placed under the ACC Christmas Tree and packaged and delivered.

Information: text Joyce Blobner @ 480-381-4195.

Cardio and line-dancing classes at Pecos Center beginning next month

Ahwatukee certified fitness instructor, Carrie McNeish is lining up beginner and intermediate/advanced line dancing classes and Muscle Mania cardio fitness classes next month at Pecos Center in Ahwatukee, starting the first week in January. No partner or experience is necessary for the dancing classes.

Beginner dance classes are at 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 11:15 a.m. Thursdays; the others are at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 12:15 p.m. Thursdays.

Muscle Mania is a small-group personal training class in a comfortable environment. They are at 11 a.m. Mondays and 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

Register for any class in person or at apm.activecommunities.com/phoenix/Home. Information: 480-221-9090, cmcneish@cox.net, or dancemeetsfitness.net.

Y OPAS needs volunteers to help local seniors get to appointments, grocery

The Ahwatukee Family YMCA’s Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors needs volunteers to help Ahwatukee seniors maintain independent living.

Services include transportation to appointments, shopping and errands as well as friendly phoning and visiting, social activities and minor handyman services and minor business help.

The agency is most in need of drivers. If you would like to volunteer, call the Y OPAS office at 602-212-6088 or visit the Ahwatukee Foothills YMCA, 1030 Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee.

Yoga ministry offers free sessions at Mountain Park Church here

Elena Porter, yoga ministry director at Mountain Park Church in Ahwatukee, is offering free meditation and yoga classes seven days a week at various times.

Information: 602-625-6617.

Phoenician Oasis offers special cook- Try Art in the Garden Studio for wining classes in private Ahwatukee home ter break fun and enrichment Phoenician Oasis offers cooking classes for all ages in an Ahwatukee home. Learn how to make low-fat, low-sodium and low-sugar dishes as well as bread-making, vegan, French and international cuisines while savoring gourmet hors d’oeuvres and sipping wine or cold drinks.

Upcoming bread classes: Dec. 28 and Jan. 11 and 25.

Vegan classes: Jan. 4 and 18.

Details: phoenicianoasis.com or 480-888-5521

Ahwatukee women’s group needs bears, blankets by end of the month The Ahwatukee Women’s Golf Association is again

Art in the Garden in Ahwatukee is closed today, Christmas, but will reopen Dec. 26.

Free open painting time is available 10 a.m.-noon Thursdays. People are encouraged to drop in with their current project and supplies. Vision Boards is the title of a new class beginning in January and the studio will be introducing a new gallery in January, as well as new Sunday class hours 2-4 p.m. Local artists will be able to sell their works through the studio. Contact Bev. for details.

Register at artinthegarrdenstudio.com or 480-302-1304.

The studio is at 4221 E. Chandler Blvd.

COMMUNITY

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COMMUNITY

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 25 Christmas service

Lamb of God Lutheran Church will hold a Christmas Festival service.

DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m., at Lamb of God Lutheran Church, 599 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee. Information: 480-283-8329.

SUNDAYS

Free tutoring

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

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

Learn gardening from pros

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

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

Chess, knitters clubs

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

DETAILS>> The Chess Club meets at 11 a.m. and Knitters Anonymous meets at 2 p.m. For either club, call 602-4056320 for more information.

Bible Study

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

DETAILS>> 9:15 a.m. Mountain View Lutheran Church.

11002 S. 48th Street, Ahwatukee, 480-893-2579. mvlutheran.org/classes.

MONDAYS

Stretch and roll

Body Firm in Ahwatukee offers a free stretch, foam-rolling class for 30 minutes. Stretching and rolling helps loosen and break up the tension in the fascia while providing more mobility and flexibility as well as muscle performance.

DETAILS>> 11:40 a.m., 3636 E. Ray Road, next to Fry’s Supermarket. No reservation required, but first-timers are advised to come a few minutes early to sign a waiver.

Gentle yoga at Pecos

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

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

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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 enjoy an evening with like-minded folks.

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

Desert Pointe gardeners meet

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

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

TUESDAYS

Overcome painful experiences

Men’s H.O.P.E., an acronym for Helping Overcome Painful Experiences, meets weekly for confidential and candid conversations about divorce, dependencies and relationships.

DETAILS>> 6:30-8:15 p.m. Mountain Park Church 16461 S. 48th Street. (Southeast corner of Frye & 48th)

Yoga Guided Meditation

Instructors from the nonprofit organization Life Empowerment Yoga Guided Meditation and Reflexology will lead participants on a guided tour of how to center the mindbody connection through the practice of yoga and meditation. Please bring a yoga mat or large towel.

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

Ladies golf

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

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

Patriotic playgroup

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

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

Estrangement support

Although rarely discussed, family estrangement is far more common than most people realize. The estranged suffer from loneliness, lack of self-esteem, guilt, anger and depression. Desert Foothills United Methodist Church provides a support group that meets the first Tuesday of every month. The public is invited to the “Living Loss” sessions.

No questions asked, and anonymity will be respected.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m., first Tuesday of every month; 2156 E.

�ee CALENDAR page 19

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU from Page 30

DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

CALENDAR from page 18

Liberty Lane, Ahwatukee. Use Entry B. Free. Information: 480-460-1025 and office@desertfoothills.org.

Prayer night offered

Ahwatukee Health and Recovery holds a weekly prayer night. The public is invited.

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

Chair yoga featured

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. $6 per class. Information: 480-330-2015 or donna@ innervisionyoga.com.

Toastmasters sharpen skills

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

French Talk Time

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

19

pants should already speak some French to benefit from this program. Closed Nov. 26.

DETAILS>> 6:30-7:30 p.m.. See above for appropriate Tuesdays. Ironwood Library, 4333 E. Chandler Blvd. Ages: Adults.

Free. No registration required.

WEDNESDAYS

Book club forming

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

DETAILS >> The group will meet the first Wednesday of the month but time and place have not been determined. If interested, call 602-405-6320 for more information.

Meditation meetings

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

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

ToddlerTime

Toddlers 24-47 months-old, accompanied by a favorite adult, enjoy interactive activities that encourage emerging language skills such as stories, songs, games and playtime.

Children and caregivers also practice Baby American Sign Language, a great way to help young children develop communication skills, in this active session.

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

Sit, Stay, Read!

Emerging readers of all ages can sign up for reading time with a registered therapy animal & human team. #SitStayRead #IronwoodLibrary DETAILS>> Wednesdays December 11 & 18, 4:00-5:00 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. All Ages. Free. No registration required.

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.

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

�ee CALENDAR page 20

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

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COMMUNITY

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

CALENDAR from page 19

Fun with watercolors

Economy discussion

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

DETAILS>> 9:30 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month, Dutch Bros Coffee Patio, 3215 E. Chandler Blvd. RSVP: 480759-1324.

‘Dems and Donuts’ set Legislative District 18 Democrats gather for an informal chat.

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

Grief support

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

DETAILS>> 6-7:30 p.m. at Pecos Community Center, 1710 S. 48th S. The assigned classroom varies signs will be on-premises. It is a drop-in group and there is no need to call or register. Meeting dates this year: Nov. 27 and Dec. 11.

THURSDAYS

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

DETAILS>> 1-3:30 pm at Michael’s at 48th Street and Ray Road, Ahwatukee. $25/class. Sign up online:michaels.com/ classes-and-events/classroom. Information: Judy Lokits, instructor. 954-234-1768.

Teen Thursdays @ the Library

We provide the snacks and fun; you just bring yourself and a friend for gaming, karaoke, crafting, snacks, and more! #IronwoodLibrary DETAILS>> Thursdays, 4-5:30 p.m., Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd. Ages: 12-18 years. Free. No registration required. Not held Dec. 26 .

Networking group meets

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

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

Kiwanis meets weekly

The Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club meets weekly and welcomes newcomers. Upcoming speakers: Nov. 21, Vicki McAllister, Senior Advocacy Group of Ahwatukee; and Dec. 12, Adrian Fontes County Recorder.

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Preschoolers’ moms gather

Free childcare for ages 0 to 5.

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

SAVINGS

Art class in artist’s home

Ahwatukee artist Kathie Kelly says she’s offering “the perfect opportunity for aspiring young artists to learn drawing and painting skills.” Art Lessons for You, involves “creative exploration classes for first graders and up. All forms of drawing materials and water-based paints are supplied.

Open enrollment and if spaces are available, drop-ins are welcome. Call to make a reservation.

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

Toastmasters meet

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

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

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

During this holiday season and every day of the year, we wish you all the best.

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A beginner’s class in learning to read Hebrew will be held Saturdays in December and January.

DETAILS>> Valley Unitarian Universalist near Kyrene and Ray roads, Chandler. Taught by Ahwatukee Rabbi Susan Schanerman. Rabbi@nefeshsoul.org for details.

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

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

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Ahwatukee Rabbi Susan Schanerman leads Shabbat services the first and third Friday of the month.

DETAILS>> 7 p.m. first Friday of the month, 6:15 p.m. Congregation NefeshSoul meets at the Valley Unitarian Universalist near Kyrene and Ray roads, Chandler. Information: nefeshsoul.org

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

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COMMUNITY

DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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Items in need are: Clothing Items: (Men’s sizes) Sweat pants Pajama pants Gym/sport shorts T-shirts Socks Boxer shorts Flip Flops

Stocking Stuffers: $25 Walmart or Target gift cards $25 Harkins or AMC movie gift cards$10 Fast food gift cards Toiletry items Disposable razors Shaving cream Toothpaste Deodorant

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DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

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Winter break a great time to visit Grand Canyon

BY ANDY LENARTZ GetOut Contributor

S

outh Mountain Park offers spaces for a lifetime of exploration and adventure but still cannot compare with a nearby attraction, Grand Canyon National Park.

I frequently poll classes I teach at GateWay Community College and groups I work with to determine how many have been to the Grand Canyon.

The poll results are consistent: less than half of Arizona residents have ever visited.

This is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, one relatively easy and inexpensive to visit from the East Valley, making the result quite surprising.

People travel across the world and spend tens of thousands of dollars to visit the Grand Canyon, we can get there with a

ferent.

Winter brings smaller crowds and scenic snowy landscapes, advantages a bit offset by colder nights and regular snowstorms.

Here are the basic details along with the cost: Transportation. The 230mile drive is approximately 3.5 hours from Phoenix. After arriving, there is an excellent shuttle system to get you most Andy Lenartz of Ahwatukee and his family enjoy winter outings at places in the park for free.

Grand Canyon National Park.Special to AFN)) The park’s shuttle system will take you to most popular destifew days and couple hundred dollars and nations along the rim. Some of many still never go. the shuttle routes provide lengthy, unobIt may seem complicated and daunting structed views of the Canyon. I’ve spent but is a relatively easy and inexpensive numerous pleasurable afternoons taking place to visit. in the view from a shuttle with kids exEvery season at the Grand Canyon is dif- hausted by a day of hiking.

Lodging. There is a hotel in the park with rooms from $100/night at Bright Angel or Maswik Lodges. The hotel in nearby Tusayan has options available for $100 a night for less.

Additional expenses. Entrance fee is currently $35/car for seven days. Cooler of food for weekend: $50. Photos, memories: Free. This adds up to $200-350 total for a weekend of experiences and memories like no other.

For an even better deal, get an annual pass. For $80, this covers all national parks, national forests, monuments, recreation areas and others for a full year. It’s about the cost of a movie and candy for a family of four, but this gets you a full year of exploration and adventure.

Fourth graders can get a free annual

Before capping off Dec. 31 with a bang, stop by Chandler’s Fashion Lounge for an elegant affair. Guests will don formal, all-white attire, and in turn be treated with complimentary appetizers, party favors and a two-hour open bar. A live DJ will keep the party going. Before heading out, guests will take part in a complimentary champagne toast.

The Fashion Lounge, 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, https://bit.ly/2NDN5Ut, 1 to 7 p.m., $35-$75.

games like super beer pong, jumbo Jenga and cornhole. To round out the year, there will be a midnight countdown and piñata drop. Limited VIP tickets –exclusively for guests ages 21 and older – will provide extras like an exclusive area, early entry and dinner from Cloth + Flame.

Roosevelt Row Arts District, 918 N. Second Street, Phoenix, 480.788.4318, flannelball.com, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., $15-$225.

Flannel Ball Dec. 31

Eat deliciously and party extravagantly at this two-part event, which will occupy the FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel and the Match Restaurant & Lounge late into the evening on Dec. 31. The theme of the party? Studio 54. At the FOUND:RE hotel guests can celebrate into 2020 with an evening of glamour, elegance and disco.

These festivities include DJs and live music, dancing, party favors, selfie stations, a champagne toast at midnight and more.

This event is 21 and older, and guests are encouraged to dress spectacularly.

Prior to ringing out the year, guests can

�ee GRAND CANYON page 28

Ring in the New Year with these top events

BY CONNOR DZIAWURA GetOut Staff

N

ew Year’s Eve is an important time of year. It’s a time to reflect.

It’s a time to celebrate. And it’s time to spend the night with friends and family.

It feels like just yesterday we were ringing in the decade, looking back at the first nine years of the new millennium.

But alas, time flies and the time is now to ring in another fresh 10 years.

Regardless of how the 2010s went, set your worries aside for one evening and get together with those who enjoy your company.

From early-in-the-day events to ones with countdowns and fireworks at midnight, here are different ways to ring in the next decade.

Decadence Arizona 2019 Dec. 30-31

Ring in the New Year in style, when Relentless Beats’ and Global Dance’s annual Decadence festival returns to Chandler.

This year’s two-day lineup will feature plenty of big names like Dillon Francis,

Elegant ways to welcome the new year abound throughout the Valley. (Special to AFN)

Diplo, Skrillex and Zeds Dead, along with a plethora of other raver-friendly acts like AC Slater, Illenium and Nora En Pure. Each date—Dec. 30 and Dec. 31— the festivities will commence at 6 p.m., wrapping at 3 a.m. the following day.

This show is 18 and older.

Rawhide Western Town & Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, 1.323.908.0607, decadencearizona.com, 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. both days, $119-$789.

All-White NYE Brunch Dec. 31

Party like it’s 1999 at this annual New Year’s Eve party and art show, where guests are encouraged to wear their best flannel. Third Seven and 8-Bit Mammoth will provide the music. New Belgium Brewing Co. and Tito’s Handmade Vodka will offer beer and cocktails, while Early Bird PHX is responsible for coffee and espresso to keep the night going. Food will be on hand from Mein Man, Whitty’s Chicken + Fish, Freak Brothers Pizza and The Wild Thing. As for the art, more than 50 local creatives are expected to participate. All the while, guests can play

FOUND:RE 54 and Dinner Dec. 31

�ee NEW YEAR’S page 29

28

GET OUT

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

Females join ring at new Zoppe Circus show

BY LAURA LATZKO GetOut Contributor

guste-style clown named Nino.

Within this role, he showcases his circus skills it includes trying to take the attention away from other performers.

“You’re not supposed to play with other people’s props in the circus. That’s rule No. 1, but I always did,” Giovanni The old fashioned thrills and laughs of a traditional circus are brought back by the said.

Zoppe Family at Chandler Center for the Arts.

This year, he (Special to AFN) will be play opposite a Ruswhat country you are from, what color sian-inspired babushka character named you are, what race you are, what religion Natasha Vodkavitch, portrayed by ringyou are, everybody’s always accepted.” mistress Aimee Klein.

Giovanni said Emma endured a lot in Giovanni brings a Venetian comedic her life, but remained dedicated to the style of clowning known as Commedia circus. When the circus was bombed, she dell’arte, and Klein plays the more serious watched helplessly as the animals died. clown to his fool.

“My grandmother was in tears, on her This is the first time the family circus knees crawling back to the show,” Giovanni has had a ringmistress. said. “Our animals are our lives for circus The show will also be breaking new people. It’s what we live for—our animals.” ground with female-centered acts develGiovanni said she is a testament to the oped or reworked specifically for the show. strength of the Zoppe family’s strong Audiences will have a chance to see the women.

Zingara Riders, an all-female group of “The show collapsed multiple times, Cossack trick riders. This Russian style of and she would always bring it back,” riding is fast-paced and dangerous.

Giovanni said.

“These women are jumping on and off Like men in the show, female performers and doing incredible feats and going underhave always taken on different roles, includneath the belly of a horse,” Giovanni said. ing helping to set up and take down the tent.

The circus will also showcase an all-fe“The women don’t just walk in a ring and male group of flyers from the Santos take a bow. They also drive the stakes, put family, another multigenerational circus the tent up, help to drive. The women do family. For the first time, 6-year-old twin everything on our show,” Giovanni said. sisters Alice and Elise Santos will perform Now, Giovanni, his sisters Tosca and the Perch Pole Act. Carla and their spouses have been upThe show will have performances of holding the family tradition with clown, Mongolian contortionism and an aerial equestrian and dog acts, respectively. act with two sisters performing on a lyra During the shows, Giovanni plays an Au-

apparatus.

It took some time to find the right performers and develop new acts for this show.

Giovanni’s daughter Chiara,16, played a key role in writing and directing the show.

Giovanni hopes she and her brother Julien, a 10-year-old clown, will continue the family’s circus tradition, but he isn’t pressuring them.

“If the next generation wants it. I don’t want to force any generation to do it, but if they really like to do it,” Giovanni said.

“My daughter is really showing a lot of promise…I have a strong feeling she’s going to be a huge part of what we are doing here in the future.”

The show will have a similar intimate feel as others presented by the family circus. The audiences are no more than 20 feet from the action, and their senses are all engaged, especially when the horses are running around the ring.

Giovanni, his sisters, their spouses and his children are part of an extended circus family including the other performers.

Each year in Chandler, they set up and fill stockings and hold a Christmas dinner inside of the ring.

Giovanni grew up learning bareback riding, clowning, juggling and trapeze arts his father and other performers from the time he was young. He can’t imagine another life than the one he lives.

“I don’t know what a stationary life is.

Normal life to me is what I am doing,” Giovanni said.

During the Chandler engagement, members of the circus will be doing a three-day circus camp from Monday, December 30, to Thursday, January 2, where children ages 7 to 13 can learn low wire performing, balancing, clowning, jugging.

Giovanni said the circus school not only teaches children circus skills but helps to instill confidence in them.

“When they are in the ring that last day, they just really shine like crazy,” Giovanni said.

GRAND CANYON from page 27

of souls.

This is a great option for the other seasons, however, and a great way to save some money.

Mather Campground at the South Rim has over 300 sites at $18 per night.

These sites should be reserved in advance during busier times of the year as it does fill up, you should not plan on arriving and expecting a site to be available during the spring or summer months. Phoenix and Flagstaff-area REI stores rent tents at a

wonder are available the entire length, not confined to the Instagram-official photo spots.

The winter, in particular, brings smaller crowds and even more picturesque landscapes. Do exercise proper caution of winter storms and ice accumulation, which affects the roads and trails on a regular basis.

The Grand Canyon National Park website provides regular updates on conditions: nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/ weather-condition.htm.

F

or families like the Zoppes, the circus isn’t just a way to make a living.

It is part of their identities.

The Zoppe family’s circus, in its 177th year, will make its annual visit to Chandler from Thursday, Dec. 26, to Sunday, Jan. 5.

Seven generations of the family have been part of Zoppe: An Italian Family Circus.

The family circus was started in Italy in 1842 by French clown Napoline and Hungarian equestrian ballerina Ermenegilda and was moved to the United States by equestrian Alberto Zoppe in the 1940s.

Throughout the circus’ history, matriarchs have played a strong role in keeping the family tradition alive. Emma Zoppe was especially instrumental in making sure the circus survived through tough times of famine and war.

In honor of Emma Zoppe, the family circus will be presenting a new show entitled “La Nonna,” a term used for a grandmother in Italian.

Giovanni Zoppe, a sixth-generation circus performer and family circus’ director, said the new show is centered around and showcases the talent of female performers. Around 80% of the cast is made up of female performers from around the globe.

In each generation, one family member has really taken the reigns of leading the family circus. Emma was this person during the 1920s to the 1940s, and her son Alberto took over after her.

“This truly is a celebration of her life.

This show is about the strength, power and beauty of all women, the Zoppe women in particular,” Giovanni said.

Giovanni hopes the show will empower women and promote tolerance of others and equal treatment of people from different backgrounds.

“The circus has always been an equal-opportunity employer because we’ve always accepted everybody,” he said. “No matter

pass through an Every Kid in a Park program, and there are free annual passes for members of the military, the disabled, and national park volunteers. People 62 and older can get a lifetime pass for the same $80 rate.

Other times of year. With nighttime temperatures at the South Rim in the winter regularly dropping into the 20s and teens, camping is reserved for only the hardiest

reasonable rate of $25 for three days.

While it often seems all 6 million annual visitors arrive simultaneously and happen to be there during your visit, it is relatively easy to escape the crowds as most visitors spend a short amount of time at the canyon and never leave the visitor centers and lookout points.

By walking even 10 minutes from the major viewpoints, you will be able to achieve relative solitude. And the panoramic landscapes created by this natural

GET OUT

DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

NEW YEAR’S from page 27

partake in a four-course, prix fixe meal at the Match Restaurant & Lounge. Meal tickets cost $85, while party admission is $25.

Match Restaurant & Lounge, 1100 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.875.8080, matchphx.com, 5:30 p.m., tickets start at $85.

FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel, 1100 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.875.8000, https://bit.ly/2ObQc5k, 9 p.m., general admission $25, VIP tables $360-$1,800.

Intergalactic 2020 New Year’s Eve Celebration Dec. 31

L IL

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New Year’s Eve 2020 Dec. 31

Golfers and fun-havers unite, as popular attraction, Topgolf will ring in the New Year with live entertainment, a chef-inspired menu, and midnight festivities. The theme is glow in the dark.

All New Year’s Eve packages include unlimited gameplay from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. for up to six guests, front-row seats to a midnight fireworks show, and party favors. VIP packages with a special feast and bottle of sparkling wine are available, too.

Topgolf locations in Gilbert, Glendale, Scottsdale and Tucson, topgolf.com, 9 p.m. $240-$450.

New Year’s Eve Celebration Dec. 31

Get fancy with the Phoenix Symphony at Symphony Hall, as you signal out 2019 with famous Strauss waltzes, seasonal classics and Broadway and contempo-

rary favorites. Complimentary glasses of champagne will be provided. The show is expected to run for around two hours.

Tickets are expected to sell out.

Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second Street, Phoenix, 602.495.1999, https://bit.ly/2O6V3o1, 7:30 p.m., tickets available as part of a subscription.

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New Year’s Eve Dance Dec. 31

Raven’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dec. 31

There’s something for everyone this New Year’s Eve, including Apache Junction’s active, 55-and-older community known as Golden Vista Resort. This event is keeping it simple, with dancing, snacks and a champagne toast.

Golden Vista Resort, 3710 S. Goldfield Road, Apache Junction, 480.671.2000, https://bit.ly/32FcXDP, 8:30 p.m., $20.

Get celestial as Raven Events welcomes the New Year under the moon and stars. This gala, the 14th one, set in the grand two-level Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, has been described as having an elegant atmosphere. That atmosphere includes live and DJ-spun music, dancing, two full bars, party favors, a midnight countdown with a complimentary champagne toast, and festive décor. Valet is complimentary, but guests can park themselves if desired. Raven Events requests semi-formal to black-tie attire.

Talking Stick Resort, 9800 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, 480.850.7734, https:// bit.ly/36WW7DH, 8 p.m., $60-$570.

Noon Year’s Eve Dec. 31

This twist on the end-of-year festivities is sure to be one for the ages. And with that, we mean all ages. Snow may not be what you think of when you think of Phoenix, but the zoo is aiming to change that with this frosty event, which will be full of snow—with snowball tar-

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gets to boot. There will also be bounce houses, a DJ dance party, and a ball drop at noon. For an extra twist, the zoo will allow guests to sign its “Noon Year’s ReZOO-lutions” banner.

Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, 602.286.3800, phoenixzoo.org/ event-items/noon-years-eve, 9 a.m. to noon, features included with regular zoo admission unless otherwise noted.

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Close out the decade at this intergalactic, planetary block party and VIP celebration, where the Clarendon Hotel and Spa will take its guests through time and space—figuratively, that is. Attendees of the block party are encouraged to wear retro sci-fi clothing while they enjoy music, food and alcoholic beverages under the stars. As for the VIP section, guests can party fancifully on the sky deck, by the poolside or in the Tranquilo Lounge, also with music, alcohol and more. This

event is 21 and older.

The Clarendon Hotel and Spa, 401 W. Clarendon Avenue, Phoenix, 602-2527363, https://bit.ly/2Q88qHo, 7 p.m., $20-$100.

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GET OUT

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

With JAN D’ATRI GetOut Contributor

Your guests will be jolly with a piece of this ‘wreath’

I

t’s one of those classic holiday sides that seem to get passed on from one generation to the next.

The name of this recipe just doesn’t do it justice. The frozen cranberry salad is so much more than that.

It’s a smooth, creamy and refreshing dish that is perfect for a holiday side, salad or dessert. There are many variations on this classic. Some recipes call for pineapple chunks. Some have lots of sugar. Some use sour cream instead of the secret ingredient in this particular dish.

I think this variation is perfect. It has a wonderful blend of whole-berry cranberry sauce, cream cheese, whipped topping, walnuts and shredded coconut.

Then, there is the secret ingredient. The one that you can’t taste but adds the creamy and smooth texture.

That secret ingredient is a small amount of Miracle Whip. This frozen cranberry wreath is so easy to whip together. just combine the ingredients, spoon into a casserole dish or spring form pan and freeze. Because it’s such a simple recipe, it’s a perfect dish for kids to make as their contribution to the holiday feast. Who knows? They may be the ones to pass it along to the next generation.

This wreath looks gorgeous on a platter on a bed of greens and adds just the right festive look and taste to your Christmas table.

Ingredients: 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup Miracle Whip 2 tablespoons sugar 1 large container (16 ounces) frozen Cool Whip, thawed 2 cups chopped walnuts 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut 2 cans (16 ounces each) whole-berry cranberry sauce Lettuce leaves for garnish Directions: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, Miracle Whip and sugar and mix until smooth and creamy.

Fold in the whipped topping. Add the shredded coconut, cranberries and walnuts and mix gently until well combined. Spread into a 13x9-in. casserole dish. If you want the salad to look like a wreath, line a 9” or 10” inch spring form pan with plastic wrap.

I used a Bundt spring form to create a hole in the middle.

Cut a slit in the plastic wrap in the top where the hole is and press down to line the pan. Fill the pan or casserole dish with the cranberry mixture. Cover and freeze until hardened. (Best if frozen overnight.) When ready to serve remove cranberry wreath from the mold, remove the plastic wrap and place on serving platter. Garnish with lettuce leaves. If desired, place a glass bowl in the hole and fill with cranberry sauce. Serve slices while still chilled. (If using a 13 x 9 inch casserole dish, you’ll just spoon it out to serve.

Watch my how-to video: jandatri.com/recipe/reeses-peanut-butter-oatmeal-bars

BUSINESS

DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Business

@AhwatukeeFN |

23

@AhwatukeeFN

www.ahwatukee.com

Ahwatukee �inancial advisor expands role to recruitment

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

I

t’s that time of the year when many young and not-so-young people start thinking about work in the coming year.

More precisely, younger adults start thinking about having a real career while older ones think about whether they want to working in the same job this time next year that they have now.

Ahwatukee �inancial advisor Joseph Ortiz has a suggestion for these thinkers, regardless of their age or current employment status: Think Edward Jones.

In some ways, Ortiz found himself in a similar position 11 years ago when he and his wife were relocating from California.

He had a successful marketing business there but he and his wife wanted to be closer to family. Besides, the Great Recession was coming on strong and Or-

tiz was looking for something that offered room for income growth as well as stability.

So, he attended an Edward Jones recruitment dinner to hear about its opportunities.

And he was hooked.

He had been checking out other �inan-

a person as opposed to some of the other �irms I met with. One company said, ‘we’d appreciate it if you got your license �irst and then we’ll look at you and one person got back to me just through an email. It just wasn’t as personable.”

At Edward Jones, the whole process “just

cial services companies but there were a couple things that appealed to him about Edward Jones.

“The biggest part was just that it was a private �irm versus a publicly traded one,” he said. “That appealed to me a lot. And at the time, Edward Jones de�initely seemed more interested in me as

really seemed more engaging,” he said.

Flash forward 11 years and Ortiz not only as built a following but he is also hosting those recruitment dinners.

He’s moved from his old digs in Ahwatukee across the I-10 to 8950 S. 52nd

GreenPharms will work with customers to go over all of the options for the strain, color and aroma of the cannabis.

According to Saloum, the cannabouquets are something that need to be planned in advance to give the patient more options.

If the dispensary doesn’t have a certain strain the happy couple want, it can be grown if they give the dispensary suf�icient notice.

The plant can come in purple, green, red, yellow or any mixture of those colors, according to Tyler Fuduloff, the grow manager at GreenPharms.

Patients can tell GreenPharms the color scheme they are hoping for, and Fuduloff will research strains that would best �it.

The aroma of the plant can be utilized to enhance the bouquet, as well.

According to Fuduloff, the scent of cannabis can have hints of strawberry, cherry or grape.

Customers can also choose whether they want to include the whole �lower, which includes the bud that is what gets smoked, or just the leaves.

While customers won’t be able to choose a speci�ic color for the leaves, the leaves give off a much milder scent than the entire plant will.

Patients can only possess two-and-onehalf ounces of cannabis at a time, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services. However, purchasing only the leaves will not be counted against a patient’s allotment, said Fuduloff.

When it comes to the choosing the rest of the �lowers for the bouquet, GreenPharms has in-house �lorists that will work with patients.

If the bride has her own �lorist, GreenPharms will prepare the cannabis and deliver them to the bride’s �lorist.

According to Saloum, these bouquets can be ordered online or in GreenPharms’s Mesa store, near the U.S. 60 and Clearview Avenue.

Joseph Ortiz understands that if the financial services firm Edward “ Jones is to maintain its top-rated client service record, it must continue to attract dedicated, quality people to become financial advisors. ” – Edward Jones Corperate Office

Joseph Ortiz has built his clientele at Edward Jones as a financial advisor and now also recruits others who might want a career with the firm. (AFN file photo)

��� ORTIZ ���� 37

Pot shop’s bouquets can keep bride high on love

BY DEVAN SAUER Tribune Staff Writer

A

Mesa medical marijuana dispensary is allowing brides to create original and unique bouquets with leaves from cannabis plants.

GreenPharms owner Marie Parades Saloum said she got the idea for the “cannabouquets” when she was tending to its marijuana garden.

She noticed the beautiful, untrimmed leaves on the plants that the public doesn’t frequently have the see with the �inished product.

The leaves around the �lower are commonly trimmed off before packaging and she thought they could complement �loral bouquets.

Saloum said the cannabis �lower gives bouquets a “pop that’s different than you see every other place.”

The creations can be customized to the bride or groom’s desire.

Patients can choose to have the cannabis be the focal point of the bouquet or to have it mixed with other �lowers.

The wedding bouquets that GreenPharms puts together can come with the whole marijuana plant, leaves and all or just the leaves. (Special to AFN)

��� LAUREN LEE ���� 37

24

BUSINESS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

POT ���� ���� 23

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Previously, GreenPharms made Valentine’s Day bouquets which featured a strain with a pink hue, according to Saloum.

“Normally after an event you have �lowers,” said Saloum. “With this one, you actually invested into your medication. You can’t smoke a rose.”

At the time of the event or holiday, the cannabis will still be a live plant and will need time to dry before it can be used.

The bouquets or arrangements come with cure instructions that detail how to prepare the cannabis for use after the event.

Fuduloff said the bouquets end the stigma of cannabis by mixing it in with �lowers.

“We’re trying to break that whole cycle there and make it a comfortable thing that everybody is okay with,” said Fuduloff.

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BUSINESS

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ORTIZ ���� ���� 23

St. and he’s also taken on the role of recruiter while he still serves his clients.

“Joseph Ortiz understands that if the �inancial services �irm Edward Jones is to maintain its top-rated client service record, it must continue to attract dedicated, quality people to become �inancial advisors,” the company said in a release.

It was so impressed with his performance as a recruiter last year that he was among the 431 �inancial advisors – out of more than 18,000 nationwide – to receive the Top Talent Acquisition Award.

“We are dedicated to serving individual investors and serving them well,” Ortiz said. “If I know someone who I believe could enhance our team and live up to the standards Edward Jones sets for its brokers, I try to bring him or her on board. Besides striving to do a good job myself, that’s the best way I know to maintain our reputation.”

And so Ortiz will be hosting monthly recruitment dinners at the upscale Va Bene

restaurant on Chandler Boulevard and 48th Street to identify potential advisors for the Fortune 500 company, which serves more than seven million clients with combined assets totaling over $1 billion.

“We have people who are active in the community that become advisors. We have ex-teachers, former military, a lot of people who come from careers very different from �inance,” Ortiz explained.

He suggested that the positions could appeal to someone looking for a solid start in a real career, “someone looking in the last 10 or 15 years before they retire for something different to do” or someone who is looking to build a business around service to clients.

Edward Jones recently was named the No. 9 large company on the Top Companies to Work For in Arizona list compiled by the Arizona Commerce Authority.

It also was dubbed the same by Forbes Magazine and received its Spotlight on Diversity award.

Ortiz said the fact spouses are encouraged to attend the recruitment dinner

GOT NEWS?

re�lects Edward Jones’ “family feel.”

The recruitment dinners include an overview of the company and give attendees a chance to ask questions.

Edward Jones has 277 branches across Arizona and a home of�ice in Tempe that provides support to the �irm’s more than 14,000 branches in North America.

“The �irm is growing, adding branches and seeking new �inancial advisors who are interested in operating an entrepreneurial of�ice with the support and bene�its of one of the oldest and largest �irms in the industry,” the company said in a release.

Financial advisors aren’t the only positions available at Edward Jones. Ortiz noted there are internal positions that interested people can search at careers. edwardjones.com.

He plans to hold his recruitment mixers at Va Bene on Jan. 9, Feb. 13 and March 26.

Reservations are required by calling 480- 753-7664. The site includes a brief quiz to help people who are unsure about what they might want to do.

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

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

Find GetOut in

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AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

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Our reader poll is designed to let YOU tell us about your favorite people, places, shops, restaurants and things to do in Ahwatukee.

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OPINION

Opinion 22

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

@AhwatukeeFN |

@AhwatukeeFN

www.ahwatukee.com

Volunteers, donations create an EV ‘miracle’

BY DAVID LEIBOWITZ AFN Columnist

T

he miracle on Baseline Road in Gilbert began with a phone

call.

It was late 2014 and Eric and Mary Sheldahl, transplants to Chandler from Iowa, were looking for a worthy organization to make a charitable contribution.

Scanning Charity Navigator, Eric happened across an Illinois-based non-pro�it called Midwest Food Bank.

Impressed by their low overhead, Sheldahl donated. His telephone soon rang.

It was David Keiser, founder of Midwest Food Bank.

“That just registered with me,” said Sheldahl, “because you don’t get thank you calls anymore.”

Fast forward a year. Again, the Sheldahls donated. Again, Keiser called in gratitude.

“In our conversation, I said, “How can

we do this in Arizona?’” Sheldahl recalled.

“Maybe a month later, David an two of his board members �lew out.”

“That was February of ‘16. By September 2016, we had a building. March 1, 2017, one year and 18 days (after the visit), we opened serving 30 agencies.”

Today, not even three years later, Midwest Food Bank Arizona serves more than 290 partner agencies – food pantries, school and church groups, homeless ministries, you name it – across Arizona.

In 2019, the miracle on Baseline Road will distribute more than $19 million in food and goods to help out needy families all over the state.

The truly miraculous thing, at least to me: Everything is donated, from the canned goods and pasta and produce to the food boxes, 18-wheelers and truck drivers dispatched almost daily from the 26,800-square-foot warehouse in Gilbert near Baseline and Mesa Drive.

Most days, MFB Arizona is teeming with

volunteers – there’s no age limit – from residents who want to do good to companies, like State Farm and Bank of America, that bring in employee groups for team building and a chance to do good in the community.

MFB Arizona volunteers will log more than 30,000 donated hours this year.

All because of a phone call.

Sheldahl, 68 years old and a man of deep Christian faith, has given up the real estate development business to run the Arizona operation full-time – as a volunteer, naturally. He’s also on the national board of directors for Midwest Food Bank these days.

Nationally, MFB operates in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Texas, Georgia and Florida, plus locations in East Africa and Haiti. All told, the organization donated nearly $240 million in aid to the needy last year.

Not bad for a non-pro�it founded in 2003 out of a shed on David Keiser’s family farm.

How can you help? Glad you asked. You can give your time or drop off food. You can go to midwestfoodbank.org/donate/dona-

tion-opportunities and send cash, a vehicle, stock or gift cards. Or you can take advantage of the Arizona charitable tax credit up to $800 for couples or $400 for individual �ilers.

Just make your donation to MFB Arizona, claim the tax credit when you �ile and you can effectively send your tax dollars to Midwest Food Bank instead of the government.

With only a couple of pennies’ overhead for every dollar given, Eric and Mary Sheldahl and the volunteers at 725 E. Baseline Road in Gilbert will make miracles happen with such a donation.

Agencies, families and our neighbors in need will be the better for it.

“Everybody has an expiration date, just like food, but there’s also a ‘best use by’ date,” Eric said. “Mary and I feel like we are in our ‘best use by’ date here and we want to do all that we can to give back and be a part of what God has so divinely put together. We just love it.”

Who wouldn’t? Miracles are rare these days, except in a warehouse on Baseline Road.

things for which you are thankful. This is an activity that families can do individually or together. Start with a list of �ive things and try to add at least one or two new things to the list each day. Even small things, like sunshine, a smile from a stranger or hearing a favorite song can spark gratitude. Remembering what you are grateful for can help increase feelings of hopefulness.

Change the narrative – Most of the time, what you say to yourself about what’s happening in your life is more important than what’s actually happening. Positive thinking takes practice. Work together with your teen to stop negative thoughts and try to rephrase them in a positive way.

For instance, when you notice yourselves thinking or talking about how boring the holiday party at grandma’s house will be, stop and brainstorm several reasons you’ll enjoy the event, such as getting to see family members, tasting your favorite holiday treat or playing a favorite game.

Positive relationships. If your teens have positive relationships in their lives, nurture them. The holidays are a perfect excuse to encourage your teen to text, call or arrange

to spend extra time with people with whom they have healthy relationships.

If your teen is lacking positive connections with other people, look for ways to encourage new friendships. Help your teens plan an activity with people they would like to get to know better, gift them equipment or registration fees to join a club or sports team, or support your teen in �inding a place to volunteer.

Set attainable goals. The holiday season is a natural time to re�lect on the past year and set goals for the future. Be an example of setting realistic goals and taking concrete steps to attain them. Consider setting a family goal for 2020. Or, ask your teen what his or her goals are and how you can support them as they work to achieve their goals.

Teens who are struggling to feel hope in their lives are invited to call Teen Lifeline 24/7/365 at 602-248-TEEN (8336) or 800-248-TEEN. The hotline is staffed by teen peer counselors from 3 p.m. until 9 p.m. daily. Trained counselors are available at all other times.

Teens can also text with a teen peer coun-

selor at 602-248-8336 between the hours of 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. every day of the year.

For more information about Teen Lifeline, visit TeenLifeline.org.

Nikki Kontz is the Teen Lifeline clinical director.

There’s no place like hope for the holidays

BY NIKKI KONTZ AFN Guest Writer

T

een Lifeline is reminding parents of Arizona teens there’s no place like hope for the holidays. That’s because studies show teens who live in a state of hope may experience increased happiness, improved academic achievement and lowered rates of suicide.

We know hope is a skill you can learn and develop over time. This holiday season, we’re asking parents to take a few minutes each day to check in with their kids and help them develop skills that impact their hopefulness.”

Developing skills that translate into hope is especially important during the holiday season, when added stress from �inals, family commitments, holiday events and gift giving can sometimes cause hope to seem elusive.

Staff and volunteers at Teen Lifeline encourage parents and teens to try these four simple steps to increase hope this holiday season: Make a gratitude list. Write a list of

About Teen Lifeline

Teen Lifeline is a Phoenix-based, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to provide a safe, confidential and crucial crisis intervention service for teens throughout Arizona. Teen Lifeline strives to impact the devastating problem of teen suicide and empower youths to make healthy decisions through its peer-to-peer crisis hotline and text messaging service, Life Skills Development Training for teen volunteers, and Community Education, Prevention and Postvention services.

Established in 1986, Teen Lifeline is accredited through the American Association of Suicidology. Trained, volunteer peer counselors between the ages of 15-19 answered nearly 23,000 calls and 1,400 text messages from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily in 2018.

For more information, visit TeenLifeline. org. For help, call or text Teen Lifeline at (602) 248-TEEN (8336) or (800) 248-TEEN.

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DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Classifieds

Ahwatukee Foothills News

1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway #219 • Tempe, AZ 85282 480.898.6465 class@timespublications.com Deadlines

Classifieds: Monday 11am for Wednesday Life Events: Friday 10am for Wednesday

The Place “To Find” Everything You Need | Ahwatukee.com

HIRING? Miscellaneous For Sale Available for purchase or for fundraising to an Arizona resident: 3 foot African Rhino Horn Text Only: 480-233-3208

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If One Needs a Job, They Look Every day!

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HOUSE CLEANING Mention this ad for

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Business/Professional Services

Amethyst Homecare LLC

In-home caregiver services for the elderly

SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Companionship • Light housekeeping • Meal prep, walks, etc.

Does your child experience sensory issues with certain textures or other qualities of unfamiliar foods? If mealtimes are a constant struggle in your home and your child’s extremely limited diet is beginning to make you worried or frustrated, we have some answers!

Recent blog post: • https://kidsempowered4life.com/picky-eater-or-something-else/

Call Sandra Laura at 480-907-6987 email: info@amethysthc.com

East Valley/ Ahwatukee

Not a licensed contractor

Do you have a picky eater?

class@timespublications.com or call 480-898-6465

Garage/Doors

www.extractioncleaning.com 100% Satisfaction Guarantee!

Quality Professional Cleaning

If It’s Broken, We Can Fix It!

Place a Birth, Anniversary, Wedding Announcement, In Memoriam, Obituary or any life event in this paper today!

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Cleaning Services

GARAGE DOOR SERVICE

Appliance Repair Now

SHARE WITH THE WORLD!

33

Free consultation: www.kidsempowered4life.com, kidsempowered4life@gmail.com or 602-753-7441

• Detailed evaluation by a pediatric occupational therapist and speech therapist to provide the most comprehensive and evidence-based information • Recommendations for intensive feeding therapy, or a less intensive program to address picky eating and provide parent support

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

Home Improvement

Electrical Services

Contractors

C. READ & SON ELECTRIC for ALL your 39 years electrical needs experience

2008 through 2018

Electric Car Chargers • Fans • Troubleshooting • Remodeling • Security Lights • Recessed Cans • RV Outlets • Indoor/Outdoor Lighting • Spas • Dedicated Circuits and more Ahwatukee www.readelectricaz.com Resident ROC #158440 Bond/Ins

Plans / Additions, Patios New Doors, Windows Lowest Price in Town!

R. Child Lic#216115, Class BO3 Bonded-Insured-Ref's

Garage/Doors

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FOOTHILLS GARAGE DOOR

480-215-3373

Handyman

Same Day Service Repair/Install All Major Brands

Call for Our Monthly Special Discount

480.266.4589

480-893-8091

• FREE ESTIMATES • Ahwatukee Resident • Dependable & Honest

ROC#126694

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Marks Services the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs!

Handyman Electrical Marks the Spot for ALL•Your Handyman Needs!

Painting Flooring • Electrical Painting • Flooring • Electrical Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Marks the Spot for ALL Plumbing • Decks Drywall • Carpentry • Tile • More!

Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs!

Your Handyman Needs!

Decks • Tile • More!

Painting • Flooring • Electrical Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Needs! • Drywall • Carpentry Plumbing Painting • Flooring • Electrical • Plumbing Marks the Spot for ALL Your Handyman Painting • Flooring • Electrical • Tile More! Needs!

DrywallDecks • Carpentry • •Decks • Tile • More!

Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry Painting • Flooring • Electrical Decks • Tile • More!

“No Job Too Plumbing • Drywall • Carpentry “No JobSmall Too Man!” Decks • Tile • More! “No Job Too Small Man!” rk Since 1999 Affordable, Quality Wo 1999 ce Sin rk Wo y alit Qu e, Affordabl

Small Man!”

“No Job Too Work Since 1999 Quality le,Small 2010, 2011 Affordab Man!” 2010, 2011 2012, 2013, 2012, 2013, 2010, 2011 “No Job 2014 2014 2012,92013, 199 e Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor “No Man!” Job Too Work Sinc Too Small QualityContractor 2014 Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Notle, a Licensed Affordab 2010, 2011

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 Call BruceResidential at 602.670.7038

Electrician

Small Man!”

2010, 2011

2012, 2013, 2012, 2013, 2014 2014

Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor Call Sean HaleyAhwatukee 602-574-3354 Call Bruce at 602.670.7038 9 e, Quality Work Since 199 ROC#277978 • Licensed/Bonded/Insured

Affordabl Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor 2010, 2011

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

2012, 2013, 2014

MALDONADO HOME REPAIR SERVICES

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not a Licensed Contractor HONESTY • INTEGRITY • QUALITY

- Ahw Resident Since 1987 -

• Panel Changes and Repairs • Installation of Ceiling Fans • Switches/Outlets • Home Remodel

ALL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL Call Jim Endres 480.282.7932 Over 28 Years Experience • ROC #246019 Bonded/Insured

CALL DOUG

BASE BOARDS DRYWALL No Job ELECTRICAL Too Small!

PAINTING Senior PLUMBING Discounts!

BATHROOMS WOOD FLOORING FRAMING WALLS FREE ESTIMATES GRANITE COUNTERTOPS CARPET INSTALLATION

David Hernandez (602) 802 3600 daveshomerepair@yahoo.com • Se Habla Español

Electrical Paint Tile

Able Handyman Service LLC

And Much, Much More!

Not a licensed

contractor Jim 480.593.0506 Ablehandyman2009@gmail.com

Jaden Sydney Associates.com

480.201.5013

THE HANDYMAN THAT HANDLES SMALL JOBS THAT OTHERS DECLINE ✔ Painting ✔ Sprinkler Repair ✔ Lighting ✔ Gate Restoration ✔ Replace Cracked ✔ & MUCH MORE! Roof Tiles Ahwatukee Resident, References Available, Insured *Not A Licensed Contractor

MISSED THE DEADLINE? Call us to place your ad online!

480-898-6465

Fireplace Conversion From Pilot to Electronic Pilot

Visit our website!

Landlord and Homeowner Property Services

Repairs • Drywall • Painting • BINSR Items Trash Removal • HOA Compliance

AND so much more!

Full Service & Repair on ALL Gas Fireplaces

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480.335.4180 Not a licensed contractor.

CALL NOW! 480-294-6072

www.NowPlumbing.net

Home Improvement

Call Bruce at 602.670.7038

Ahwatukee Resident/ References/ Insured/ Not aBruce Licensed at Contractor Call 602.670.7038

• • • • • • • • • • •

Plumbing

QUICK RESPONSE TO YOUR CALL! 15 Years Experience • Free Estimates

Not a licensed contractor.

CASH OUT!

FREE Estimates!

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josedominguez0224@gmail.com

Home Remodeling

REMODEL CONTRACTOR

480-940-6400

House Painting, Drywall, Reliable, Dependable, Honest!

Home Improvement

NOT A LICENSED CONTRACTOR

34

Why re-do when you can RE-NEW? YOUR #1 CABINET REFACING COMPANY IN THE VALLEY 39 Years of Masterful Craftsmanship WE DO ALL THE WORK INCLUDED IN EVERY PACKAGE: • New custom doors • New dovetail drawers • Soft-close hinges, tracks and more ALL OUR PRODUCTS ARE PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA!

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CLASSIFIEDS

DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Landscape Maintenance Juan Hernandez

TREE

TRIMMING 25 Years exp (480) 720-3840

SPRINKLER

Foothills Touch Landscapes LLC Lawn care/Maint.

Not a licensed contractor

$25 per visit.

Juan Hernandez

Drip/Install/Repair & Tune ups!

25 years exp. Call Now (480) 720-3840

Irrigation

HIRING?

Landscape Maintenance

People are looking at the Classifieds Every day!

Starting as low as

Email Your Job Post to: class@times publications.com

Install/Design We do it all!

Not a licensed contractor

Ahw. Res - 30 yrs Exp Free Estimates.

Call Pat (480) 343-0562

or Call

480-898-6465

Landscape Maintenance

Irrigation Repair Services Inc. Licensed • Bonded • Insured Technician

Specializing in Controllers, Valves, Sprinklers, Landscape Lighting, P.V.C. & Poly Drip Systems

Call Lance White

480.721.4146 www.irsaz.com

Landscape Maintenance

ROC# 256752

MD’S LANDSCAPING

• Sprinkler/Drip Repairs • New Installs Poly/PVC • Same Day Service

Drip Systems Installed, Valves/Timer Repairs

Let’s get your Watering System working again!

System Checks • Drip Checks

NTY 5-YEAR WARRA

480.654.5600

FREE ESTIMATES! CALL 24 HOURS 25 Yrs Exp. I Do All My Own Work! Call Mark

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Cutting Edge LLC • ROC 21671

35

Landscape Maintenance

D&L SPRINKLER SERVICE Landscape Lighting Wi-Fi Irrigation & Lighting timers Misting Systems

MOST REPAIRS

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WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED!

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CDS LANDSCAPING

Irrigation Systems & Outdoor Lighting C - Caring alls Repairs & Instuse. rm te D - Dedicated ng for lo ing S - Service No Landscap

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.

Maintenance

• Evening & Weekend Service Only • You Pay Labor & Materials Only Rated 4.9 • ROC#312942 on homeadvisor.com

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Owner: David “Ray” Smith

Specials

Lawn Mowing Starts At $40 Full Service Starts At $70 15 + Yrs Exp! All English Speaking Crew

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Is your lawn ready for the holidays?

Call for a clean up.

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Call for a FREE consultation and Estimate To learn more about us, view our photo gallery at: ShadeTreeLandscapes.com

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Bonded/Insured/Licensed • ROC #225923

Other Services Weddings/Parties Night out on the town 602.348.2141 Keep this number in your cell as your Ahwatukee Transportation Service.

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The Valley’s Premier Painters Proudly Serving Ahwatukee for 15 Years!

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• Interior & Exterior

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ACP is 100% Veteran Owned Like us on Facebook to stay current & Receive 5% Off Services

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(480)785-6323

36

CLASSIFIEDS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

Painting

Plumbing

Painting

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PAINTING Interior/Exterior Painting 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Dunn Edwards Quality Paint Small Stucco/Drywall Repairs

We Are State Licensed and Reliable!

Free Estimates • Senior Discounts

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PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Interior, Exterior House Painting.

Stucco Patching.

Gate/Front Door Refinishing.

Quality work/Materials Free Estimate Ignacio 480-961-5093 602-571-9015 ROC #189850 Bond/Ins'd

Plumbing

AHWATUKEE SPECIAL $

*Any

SPEND A LITTLE…

MAKE A LOT!

Jose Dominguez Painting & Drywall SEE OUR AD IN DRYWALL! Quick Response to your Call!

15 Years Exp 480-266-4589

ROC#309706

Pool Service / Repair 1st Month of Service FREE

Not a licensed contractor

“We get your house looking top notch!” ★ Interior/Exterior Painting ★ Drywall Repair & Installation ★ Popcorn Ceiling Removal

★ Elastomaric Roof Coating ★ Epoxy Floors ★ Small Job Specialist

Off 40work done

For a limited time

East Valley PAINTERS

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

Scott Mewborn, Owner 480-818-1789

Call me, Howard:

License #ROC 298736

480.231.9651

Voted #1

AZPoolExpert.com BBB Member

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

SUN TECH

PAINTING INC.

Serving Ahwatukee Since 1987 Interior / Exterior • High Quality Materials & Workmanship • Customer Satisfaction Free Est imates • Countless References • Carpentry Services Now Available

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Plumbing

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We Beat Competitors Prices & Quality

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We use the best materials that we can find.

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Our services include: Sinks, Toilets, Faucets, Water Heaters, Garbage Disposal, Drain Cleaning, Pressure Reducing Valves, Pressure Vacuum Breakers, Hot Water Circulation Systems, Main Service Valves and Hose Taps.

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Now Accepting all major credit cards

Plumbing

Owned and Operated

by Rod Lampert Ahwatukee Resident Serving Ahwatukee for over 25 years

(480)

Plumbing Heating & Air

PLUMBING $35.00 Off Any Service Call Today!

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AHWATUKEE’S #1 PLUMBER Licensed • Bonded • Insured

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DECEMBER 25, 2019 | AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS

Sports & Recreation @AhwatukeeFN |

@AhwatukeeFN

SPORTS

31

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Fiesta Bowl teams take over Scottsdale

BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

I

t’s already considered one of the biggest sporting events to hit the Valley every year.

But this season, there’s added anticipation.

When Clemson University and Ohio State University meet at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Dec. 28, the winner gets its ticket punched to the 2020 College Football Playoff National Championship in New Orleans on Jan. 7.

In the meantime, though, Scottsdale is a clear winner.

Both teams stay in Scottsdale hotels and practice at schools in the city. And to add to the city and practice at schools here “The atmosphere here is crazy every week,” said Jennifer O’Donnell, the owner of K O’Donnell’s Sports Bar & Grill in Scottsdale – the go-to spot for Clemson alumni and fans to take in weekly Tiger football the last few years.

“It also helps Clemson is a good team that wins a lot of games,” O’Donnell added. “But we are expecting an even bigger turnout with this game.”

K O’Donnell’s, near Hayden Road and Raintree Drive in northern Scottsdale, became Tiger City when a member of the Clemson alumni group became a frequent patron. When an alumni association watch party was abruptly canceled, the patron led them to K O’Donnell’s.

This season, as Clemson returns to the destination it won its �irst national title of the College Playoff Era, O’Donnell’s is preparing to host the national branch of the Clemson alumni association.

“They will be headquartered here,” O’Donnell said. “It will be a fun atmosphere. We are expecting things to be on another level than last year with the game here.”

K O’Donnell’s frequently holds fundraisers and raf�les during the season for Clemson fans frequenting the restaurant for games each week. The walls inside are generally out�itted with Clemson gear to make fans feel at home.

Clemson fans will also have the oppor-

Bottled Blonde in Scottsdale has become the premier destination for Ohio State fans to watch the Buckeyes each week. (Courtesy Bottled Blonde)

tunity to rally their team the day before the game on Friday, Dec. 27 at the W Scottsdale Hotel. It’s there the Legends of Clemson party will take place at 9 p. m. In the past, Clemson standout players such as Brentson Buckner, Mackensie Alexander and Deandre Hopkins have attended.

While some Clemson fans will head to Glendale to watch the game in person, others will �ill K O’Donnell’s to cheer their team on in hope of reaching the national title game. Just over 11 miles south of K O’Donnell’s in Old Town Scottsdale, Ohio State fans will be doing the same for the Buckeyes.

“These fans are unbelievable, they come every week,” said Charlie Brooks, the general manager of Bottled Blonde. “I mean, they come for the Rutgers and the Maryland games where those teams are getting blown out by 60.

“Even then, we still have as many as 250 people every week and it’s the same who have been coming the last �ive years.”

Brooks formed a relationship with Kevin Fox, at the time the president of the Ohio State Alumni Club of Phoenix when he worked as a bartender at American Junkie, which closed in 2014. It was at this time Brooks moved to Bottled Blonde.

Fox and the rest of the Ohio State alumni followed.

“We try to create a family atmosphere,” Brooks said. “All of our bartenders know everyone by name. After every touchdown, we are throwing out jello shots and everyone does the ‘O-H’ chant. It really is awesome.”

Brooks and the rest of the Bottled Blonde staff have thought about hosting a rally outside of Bottled Blonde on Friday, Dec. 27, the day before Ohio State’s game against Clemson.

A similar rally was held in year’s past, with as many as 3,000 Ohio State fans attending. This year, should they be able to host the event, they anticipate as many as 7,000 fans showing up.

“It’s like you’re literally in Columbus, Ohio,” Brooks said. “This is I think by far the best atmosphere for die-hard Ohio State fans.”

It’s not just the fans of Clemson and Ohio State expected to take over Scottsdale and the rest of the Valley the week leading up to the Fiesta Bowl. The teams will, too.

A 20-year contract between the Fiesta Bowl and Experience Scottsdale makes the city the of�icial home for the two teams during their stay for the game. Both teams, bands, fans and media stay at two of the hotels in Scottsdale or Paradise Valley.

“Each year, the bowl games bring incredible exposure to the Scottsdale-area, introducing thousands of visiting fans and corporate sponsors to Scottsdale’s offerings,” Stephanie Pressler, the director of community affairs for Experience Scottsdale, said in an email. “This opportunity

��� FIESTA ���� 32

32

SPORTS

AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS | DECEMBER 25, 2019

FIESTA ���� ���� 31

comes during a need period for our local tourism industry, �illing thousands of room nights and giving our hotels and resorts a much-needed boost in occupancy.

“Plus, Scottsdale hospitality businesses bene�it from the in�lux of football fans this time of year, as those traveling with their teams explore the area’s restaurants, bars, shops and attractions before and after the games.”

Scottsdale schools also are put to use during the Fiesta Bowl.

The Tigers and Buckeyes were scheduled to hold their �irst practice in Arizona yesterday, Dec. 24 – two days after landing here.

Ohio State, which has become a frequent visitor in year’s past, will practice at Notre Dame Prep in Scottsdale for the duration of their stay in the Valley. Clemson, meanwhile, will practice at Saguaro High School.

“The last 2 years we had LSU and Penn State here,” said Mark Cisterna, Notre Dame Prep’s athletic director. “The year before I got here, we had Urban Meyer and Ohio State. It’s pretty cool, the Fiesta Bowl comes in and overseeds our practice �ields in October. We have to basically shut it down, none of our teams are able

playing in the annual bowl game each year.

This year marks the 4th year in the contract.

The campus is shut down for the week the team uses the facility.

Luckily, it comes during a time students are on Christmas break. However, none of Notre Dame’s teams are able to practice on campus.

While Ohio State uses Notre Dame’s facilities, Clemson will practice at nearby Saguaro High School.

The 2019 Fiesta Bowl kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 28 at 6 p.m. from State Farm Stadium in Glendale.

The winner of the game Jennifer O’Donnell, the owner of K O’Donnell’s Sports Bar & Grill in Scottsdale, between second-ranked has become the go-to for Clemson fans to watch the Tigers all season long.

(Pablo Robles/AFN Staff) Ohio State and No. 3 Clemson moves on to face to use it until after the Fiesta Bowl. the winner of the Peach Bowl between “They overseed it, fertilize it and paint it.” top-ranked LSU and No. 4 Oklahoma in Notre Dame Prep and the Fiesta Bowl the 2020 College Football Playoff NationCommittee agreed on an 8-year contract al Championship in New Orleans, LA. on for the school to host one of the teams Monday, Jan. 7.

Have an interesting sports story?

Contact Zach Alvira at zalvira@timespublications.com and follow him on Twitter @ ZachAlvira.

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