AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS, JANUARY 4, 2023

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Developer: Hotel re-use will enliven east Ahwatukee

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

The conversion of the Four Points by Sheraton Phoenix South Mountain site at 51st Street and Elliot Road into a high-end 184-unit apartment complex “will attract individuals with expendable income to spend in this area” of Ahwatukee, the developer told county planners.

“The addition of these units will provide needed residents to support the existing and future retail, dining, entertainment and

businesses in the nearby area,” Scottsdale developer Caliber told Maricopa County before the county Planning and Zoning Commission gave the project its blessing Dec. 8.

Now, all that remains for government approval of the project is a final vote sometime soon by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors on Caliber’s rezoning request to allow multifamily residential development on the 7.6-acre site.

No neighbors opposed the project, according to records obtained by the Ahwatukee Foothills News.

Caliber still must purchase the hotel, which Sheraton is expected to close soon.

The hotel and rest of the site is on a county island, meaning its land use is governed by the county – a reality that county planners reminded their Phoenix counterparts of when the latter objected to the project’s density and other features.

Caliber did tweak its plan, but county planners said, “The design of the project mostly meets the city’s recommendations of ap -

Senator Bowie prepares for life as Citizen Bowie

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Come noon next Monday, Jan. 9, state Sen. Sean. Bowie will be officially adding “former” to that title as he hands over the seat he’s held for six years to Rep. Mitzi Epstein.

It will be a bittersweet moment for Bowie, a 2002 Mountain Pointe High alumnus who left his job in 2016 as senior analyst in the Arizona State University Provost’s Office to run in what was then Legislative District 18 (now 12), which covers Ahwatukee, north and west Chandler and part of Tempe.

“I love my job,” he said in an interview. “I’m going to miss it a lot. I just moved all my stuff out of my office the other day, which was pretty emotional.”

Bowie opted not to run last year in a dis-

Sen. Sean Bowie of Ahwatukee will return to private life next Monday after six years in the state Senate, where he was considered one of the most bipartisan lawmakers in the Legislature. (David Minton/ AFN Staff Photographer)

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Mesa parents sue Snapchat over son’s fatal OD

BY SCOTT SHUMAKER ASN Staff Writer

Zach Plunk, 17, died of a fentanyl overdose outside his family’s house in Mesa in August 2020.

His final moments were caught on his parents’ doorbell camera, which recorded the football player leaving the house at 3 a.m. to buy a pill from a dealer, then sitting down on the curb outside the house.

“He didn’t even make it back in the house,” his mother Wendy Plunk told the Tribune.

Zach was found unconscious by a 15-year-old boy jogging at 5 a.m. He called 911 and began CPR, but Zach was gone before the ambulance arrived.

Roy and Wendy Plunk, who adopted Zach when he was 6 months old, said police told them their son had enough fentanyl in his system to kill five people.

The Plunks say a dealer sold Zach a pill made of the powerful opioid fentanyl mixed with binders and molded into a copy of a prescription opioid pill.

They say Zach, who dreamed of playing football and studying forensic science at Baylor University, suffered chronic pain after a shoulder injury his freshman year that required surgery and many treatments.

Zach occasionally turned to social media to buy Percocet to self-medicate, his

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This photo of Kema Charles was incorrectly identified on the Dec. 28 cover of the Ahwatukee Foothills News. Charles is the founder and executive director of the new Arizona nonprofit Lights, Camera, Discover, and labored diligently for months to prepare her expansive Ahwatukee studio for youthful students. 

parents said.

In a lawsuit filed last month in Los Angeles Superior Court, attorneys for the Plunks said Zach should not have turned to Snapchat for pain relief.

But they charge that Snap, the parent company of the app, should not have designed the platform in a way that allows dealers on the black market to connect with underage kids like Zach.

They also allege that Snap was negligent in design features that prevented them from monitoring Zach’s activity and enabled their son to connect with a dealer in the middle of the night.

The Plunks are one of 16 parents of minors across the country who died of overdoses from fentanyl obtained via Snapchat.

In a sign of the scale of the fentanyl trade, the Mesa Police Department seized over 700,000 fentanyl pills in a single bust in November.

The Plunks said they’re suing Snapchat to force changes to the social media platform and get the word out to more parents about the dangers of fentanyl and the role of social media in trafficking.

“You think, ‘my kids would never do drugs.’ But you don’t know what’s in the back of your kid’s mind when they’re on social media. You don’t know what it’s feeding them,” Roy said.

Product design

Snapchat was founded in 2011 and is based in Santa Monica, California. The company is valued at $15 billion.

Snapchat was known early on for allow-

ing users to send messages that disappear after they are viewed by a recipient.

Roughly 60% of its users are under 25, according to social media management company Hootsuite, and 20% are under 18.

After Zach’s death, Wendy became involved in support groups for grieving parents and noticed that many of the overdose stories she heard also involved Snapchat.

In the suit, Wendy estimates 30% of the parents she has met through support groups lost children after they purchased drugs on Snapchat. Another 30% came from people their kids met in person, and the rest were from unknown sources.

“The number of drug dealers on Snapchat right now would blow your mind,” said Laura Marquez-Garrett, an attorney for the Plunks. “They’re not using Instagram, they’re not using Facebook because they believe, based on Snap’s marketing, they believe they can’t get caught on Snap.”

The complaint alleges that dealers are attracted to Snapchat’s disappearing message feature and the ability for dealers to appear as a suggested “friend” on users’ feeds.

The app “is engineered to evade parental supervision and law enforcement’s detection and acquisition of criminal evidence,” it states, and this was “the direct and proximate cause of the untimely and tragic death and injuries at issue.”

Roy Plunk also blames the flow of fentanyl across the border for the problem of young people dying, but he also blames social media for putting the fatal

Wendy and Roy Plunk of Mesa lost their son Zachariah in August 2020 to a fentanyl overdose after he bought counterfeit oxycodone through Snapchat. (David Minton/AFN Staff

Photographer)

pill in his son’s hand.

“The main thing is just Snapchat. It has to be opened up. They can’t have these secret meetings where it just, ‘poof,’ goes into thin air,” Roy said.

A spokesperson for Snap provided the following statement: “The trafficking of fake prescription pills containing fen-

tanyl is an urgent national crisis. We are devastated that these counterfeit drugs have taken the lives of so many people, and our hearts go out to families who have suffered unimaginable losses.

“We are committed to bringing every resource to bear to help fight this national crisis, both on Snapchat and

across the tech industry overall.”

It also said, “While we can’t comment specifically on active litigation, we can share all the progress we have made in this area. We use cutting-edge technology to proactively find and shut down drug dealers’ accounts, and we block search results for drug-related terms, instead redirecting Snapchatters to resources from experts about the dangers of fentanyl.”

“We have also expanded our support for law enforcement investigations, promoted in-app educational videos warning about the dangers of counterfeit pills that have been viewed over 260 million times on Snapchat, and are partnering with the Ad Council, nonprofit organizations, and other platforms on an unprecedented national public awareness campaign that launched in October.”

Matthew Bergman, the founder of the Social Media Law Center in Seattle, which is representing the Plunks, said he decided to apply his product liability experience to social media cases after a Facebook whistleblower testified to Congress in 2021.

The whistleblower revealed internal documents showing the extent that the social media platform was aware of the dangers posed by social media use.

Social media platforms have been shielded during the rise of the internet by Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which limits websites’ liability for content posted by third parties on their sites, but Bergman said this principle doesn’t apply to the Snapchat suits.

“The focus of our cases has been that it’s the design of the product, not the content, that caused injury,” Bergman said.

“If there were a video arcade that catered to kids, and there was a room in the back of the arcade that was used to exchange drugs, and the owners of the arcades knew that this was an active drug exchange site, they would be responsible,” Bergman said.

No one immune

Wendy and Roy said Zach’s friends still stop by the house to talk with them.

Making friends was one of his gifts. He “just had that magnetic personality, you

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CALIBER

from page 1

proval and their intent.”

But they reminded Phoenix who’s boss when it comes to the project’s design and overall development, noting: “It’s important to remember that this request is being processed through Maricopa County jurisdiction and not the City of Phoenix. While we appreciate the City of Phoenix recommendations, we are following Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance regulations as modified with our request.”

The county also praised Caliber for agreeing to some of the city’s recommendations and said it anticipated Phoenix will ultimately annex the site.

Caliber plans to convert the six-story hotel’s 160 rooms into 100 studio and one-bedroom apartments and build 84 more one- and two-bedroom residential units across a series of 18 two-story and three-story buildings with backyards, patios, two-garages and driveways.

“Caliber’s proposed community will be developed with sophisticated and upscale design, walkways, balconies and patios and high-end community amenities,” the developer told the county.

Those amenities would include a “resort-style pool,” clubhouse with entertainment and work spaces, ramada, cabana. grilling station and outdoor kitchen, fitness center, package lockers for deliveries, and a dog walk.

As with another developer’s pending plan to create a 417-apartment complex a couple miles away on 50th Street near Ray Road, Caliber’s target demographic comprises high-earning tenants who are expected to stimulate local businesses.

“This proposal will not only bring a

new residential development to this underutilized site, but with its attractive design, we anticipate it will attract residents with the type of disposable income that is needed to support dining, retail, and entertainment options in the nearby area,” Caliber said.

“We believe this is a good land use decision that complements the area.”

Caliber envisions tenants “would come from various demographic groups,” including “young professionals looking for a residential experience.”

“We see the walkability to the nearby commercial center to be a big selling point for our community. We also expect these professionals to be attracted because of the close proximity to I-10 Freeway,” Caliber said, adding:

“The proposed multi-family community will help to not only avoid vacancies in adjacent retail and restaurants but will support new commercial tenants because of the expendable income from individuals likely to live in this community. It also provides a much-needed housing opportunity within this high employment growth area.”

With the only entrance to the complex planned for 51st Street, the southwest corner of the complex at Elliot Road and I-10 would see the new buildings divided into two types. Caliber plans to raze the convention center and hotel bar-restaurant to make way for some of them.

“The first type is a three-story singlefamily residential building with private attached garages and associated driveways,” Caliber said.

It said “this building type consists of

This aerial photo shows the Sheraton hotel conversion at 51st Street and Elliot Road in Ahwatukee would occur on a socalled “county island” where land use is regulated by Maricopa County and not the City of Phoenix. (Maricopa County)

trict where he and his Democratic colleagues in the House have maintained firm control since their election in 2016.

They have handily won in a district where independent and Democratic registered voters outnumber their GOP counterparts.

Partisan battles, however, weren’t Bowie’s thing.

Even before he was first sworn in January 2017, he said, “I’m not going to be a bomb thrower. I want to work with people.”

That included Republican people.

Bowie in his tenure won passage of six bills – the most by any Democrat in the Republican-dominated Legislature – because of his bipartisan efforts.

After his election, he said one of his role models for his work as a legislator was former Chandler lawmaker Rob Robson, a Republican.

“You’ll never see me protesting at the Capitol,” Bowie said in 2016. “To me it’s about being in a room working on the policies that are important to me and really trying to extract a good result.”

Many of those results involved

education.

He fought for more funding and a restoration of funding streams that had been taken away from K-12 public schools and the state’s universities.

He also pioneered the state’s first laws aimed at addressing teen mental health.

Prompted in part by a rash of suicides among Valley high school and college students, Bowie’s first successful piece of legislation was a bill requiring suicide awareness and prevention training for all teachers and school staff whose work involved students in 6th through 12th grade.

He also sponsored a bill, which passed, that provides additional protections for families that declare bankruptcy.

Bowie also counts the current state budget among his successes.

“Everyone points to that budget this year as a huge success,” said Bowie, who helped craft the spending plan that needed Democrats’ support because too many Republican lawmakers opposed one aspect of the budget or another.

“I would argue it was a huge success, because it was so bipartisan,” Bowie said.

While proud of his legislative accomplishments, Sen. Sean Bowie also leaves his Senate seat in some dismay over lameduck Gov. Doug Ducey’s refusal to call a special session of the outgoing Legislature to address the constitutional spending cap on school districts. (David Minton/AFN Staff Photographer)

He also counts among his successes his relationships with more moderate Republicans that “helped kill hundreds

of bills that I thought were bad.”

“I built a lot of coalitions on both sides of the aisle and worked behind the scenes and was pretty proud of what we did,” Bowie said.

While building those coalitions in the Legislature, Bowie also listened to his constituents.

When he first ran for the job in 2016, he estimated he had knocked on 12,000 doors. He then decided after his election he’d knock on more.

“Part of me has to do that,” he said at the time. “I want to keep talking to people and hear what they have to say. I want to tell them I am their senator and this is what I am working on and find out how they feel about it.”

He visited every one of the 45 public and charter schools in his district multiple times.

“I place a high priority on these visits,” he said after completing his first round of visits.

He explained he had several reasons for the visits: he wanted to see first-hand what students were doing; he wanted teachers and administrators to talk

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about the impact of the state’s chronic underfunding of education; and he wanted to thank the faculties and staff for their hard work.

In his waning months as a legislator, Bowie also has been hard at work –much of it involving education in one way or another.

He just completed a report for the Common Sense Institute with former Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels on how Arizona can address the crisis in affordable housing.

He has continued at ASU as professor of practice in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions.

And he’s completing work on an executive MBA that he expects to receive in May.

ment for candidates who are, you know, a little more partisan, and talk less about bipartisanship,” Bowie said, adding that he believes bipartisan approaches to the state’s biggest problems will become necessary since Hobbs provides a brake on more radical Republican measures.

“Every bill that’s going to come out the Legislature these next two years needs to be bipartisan because you got to have a Democratic governor sign off on it,” he said. “So I think that’s a welcome change. I think having both sides of the table leads to better outcomes.”

Personally, Bowie wants to focus on the personal life he said he’s largely sacrificed for six years.

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Asked what he intends to do, Bowie said he still considers himself ready to return to the Capitol now that Katie Hobbs has been inaugurated as governor since she could theoretically call a special session of the outgoing Legislature to address the Aggregate Expenditure Limit.

That constitutional cap on school district spending threatens to wreak havoc in the final quarter of the current school year because districts will not be allowed to spend a total $1.4 billion of money they already have.

Two thirds of both legislative chambers are needed to either waive the cap for this year or eliminate it altogether and Bowie, like others, believes the chances of that happening are better before the new crop of lawmakers takes over.

“The Republican caucus is going to be more conservative,” Bowie said, admitting he’s seen both sides drift steadily away from the bipartisanship he ahs long championed.

“I think there’s been more excite-

OVERDOSE

from page 7

know, and he loved everybody,” Roy said.

There’s both sadness and pride in their voices when they remember Zach.

The Plunks are ready for a legal fight over their complaint.

They’ve channeled their grief into a drive to help others and prevent similar incidents.

“It’s devastated us,” Roy said of the losing Zach. “Main thing to keep us going is

He said he turned down suggestions that he run for the Phoenix City Council seat that represents Ahwatukee and that he also was asked to consider running for the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors in 2024.

He’s not ruling out another foray into politics, however, though he explained:

“I think for now, kind of my chief focus is to build a life outside of politics because as you know, this job is very all-encompassing, and took up the vast majority of my time…I’ve been so focused on that and less focused on my personal life and being more financially secure and all that.

“So the goal is having a life outside of politics, who knows, maybe buy a house one of these days and start a family and all those things that I’ve neglected during my time in the Senate. I want to be in a place where I have a life outside of politics. If it doesn’t happen, that’s fine. If it does happen, great. But I’ve got other things to focus on and spend time on other than just politics.”

Then, he added, that on the other hand, “Never say never.” 

to try to save other lives. Get the word out.”

Part of the Plunks’ message is that fentanyl is everywhere now, and no family or neighborhood is immune from the danger of this drug.

Wendy’s advice for parents is clear: “Don’t let (kids) on Snapchat, don’t let them on Instagram, don’t let them on social media, whatsoever.”

“We know that’s not going to happen,” Roy said, “but at least they have to watch their accounts.”

Hobbs not very transparent about inaugural party supporters

BY BOB CHRISTIE Capitol Media Services

Incoming Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs is kicking off her term with a celebratory ball, a first for a new governor since Fife Symington had one in the 1990s.

But Hobbs, who touted transparency as part of her leadership, has refused to disclose which people or corporations are paying for the party.

And the lack of full public disclosure continued with her taking the oath of office on Monday, Jan. 2. That event, four days before the ceremonial oath, was closed to the public and media, with the exception of a pool news photographer.

The costs of that Thursday ceremony are being picked up by special interests, including lobbyists, companies that do business with the state, developers and builders. But the new administration, while listing official “sponsors” for the event, has been unwilling to share how much each is paying for that privilege.

The incoming governor’s unwillingness to share details of the events publicly, how much they will cost, just who is paying and how much stand in contrast to her promise to make her administration “the most ethical and accountable” in history.

On her “katiehobbs.org” website, she vows to make state government more transparent, “because the people deserve to know what their leaders are doing with their money.”

That reticence to share information about the source and use of the funds, at least for now, is a change from the three

previous administrations, which were open with the costs of the inauguration and related events – and the fundraising efforts needed to throw big bashes without spending too much of the taxpayers’ hard-earned cash.

When Democratic Gov. Janet Napolitano took the oath of office in 2001, she collected $150,000 from donors and those attending four inaugural receptions, followed by public disclosures.

But that wasn’t enough to cover all the costs. So the state treasury also coughed up $50,000, mainly for renting and staffing the audio-visual equipment for the large-screen TVs that ensured even those in the back of the Capitol courtyard could see what was happening.

Republican Gov. Jan. Brewer’s 2011 inauguration was cheap by comparison as the state struggled with fallout from the Great Recession and cratered state revenue. The event cost $65,000, and expenses included renting the chairs and other necessities to house a large Capitol crowd and also covered $13,000 worth of keepsake coins stamped with her likeness for guests.

Brewer raised $200,000 for the event and no tax dollars were used.

And the leftover cash was used to renovate the governor’s offices on the 9th floor of the executive tower.

Outgoing GOP Gov. Doug Ducey was inaugurated in 2014 and 2018, and both times he tapped special interests like lobbying firms and big businesses to pay for some of the costs.

The 2018 event bought in cash by

selling off special seats. Acquiring a pair of VIP seats costs a minimum of $10,000, which also got entrance to a special reception. Bigger checks added a photo with Ducey, and a $25,000 payout netted six seats in the front rows, three parking passes, the reception and photos, inaugural pins for all six and corporate logos on programs and the inauguration website.

This year, however, Hobbs press aide Joe Wolf said no one will have to buy tickets to watch the ceremonies tomorrow, Jan. 5.

But that doesn’t mean the incoming governor isn’t tapping donors, special interests and firms that do business with the state.

A list of event sponsors on the official state inauguration web page leads with Arizona Public Service, suggesting the state’s biggest utility is the single largest donor.

The company may have some fencemending to do with the new governor.

In 2021 it gave $100,000 to the Republican Governors Association. It hasn’t yet disclosed how much it spent in 2022.

And the RGA, in turn, financed millions of dollars in TV commercials attacking Hobbs, much of that accusing her of being lax on border enforcement.

Neither aides to Hobbs nor APS will disclose how much they are now donating to the ceremony, with the company instead saying only that it is joining with other Arizona businesses in supporting the new governor’s inauguration.

“This support is directed specifically to the 2023 gubernatorial inauguration committee, meaning it can be used in support of all inauguration functions,” the statement said. “This an important event for Arizona and its citizens; and we are pleased to be a participant.”

Others listed on the inaugural committee’s website as opening their checkbooks for the event – but with no amounts - include the insurers who provide state Medicaid services, a public affairs and consulting firm for the mining industry, developers, builders, lobbying firms and Hensley Beverage. Hensley is controlled by Cindy McCain, the widow of Republican Sen. John McCain, who was the target of vitriol by Republican Kari Lake during her losing campaign against Hobbs.

“This is a private event not being paid for with public funds,”’ said Hobbs press aide Murphy Hebert when asked for specifics.

Other officials who took office Monday included Adrian Fontes, a Democrat who is replacing Hobbs as secretary of state, and Kris Mayes, who defeated Republican Abraham Hamadeh for attorney general in what is believed to be the tightest win for a statewide office in Arizona history.

Recount results opened in court on Dec. 29 confirmed Mayes won by just 280 votes. She had been ahead by 511 votes out of about 2.5 million cast before a few hundred uncounted ballots were located during the recount.

Two Republicans also won statewide office and begin their terms Monday: Treasurer Kimberly Yee won a second term and Tom Horne defeated incumbent Kathy Hoffman and will become the state’s top K-12 school official as superintendent of public instruction.

While the number of guests expected for Thursday’s official inauguration hasn’t been released, is will be large. The state Department of Administration sent a memo to state workers warning of road

closures, heavy traffic and tight parking availability, since many state lots will be cordoned off for those attending Hobbs’ inauguration.

Want to dance in the same room with incoming Gov. Katie Hobbs at the Inaugural Ball?

That will be $150 -–unless you have the promo code. And tickets are (reportedly) going fast.

Next Saturday’s shindig to celebrate the Democrat’s seating as Arizona’s 24th governor at the Talking Stick Resort is the capstone of a weeklong series of events.

Under the Arizona Constitution, elected members of the executive department begin their four-year terms in office on the first Monday in January following the election.

GOT NEWS?

Contact Paul Maryniak at 480-898-5631 or pmaryniak@ timeslocalmedia.com

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Club West, Lakes cases to continue dragging on in court

Litigation involving separate cases over two of Ahwatukee’s four golf coursees will be continuing well into the month, if not the year.

The nearly nine-year-old lawsuit by two Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course homeowners over the 2013 closure of the 18hole executive course could be heading for a climax of sorts Jan. 23, when the fourth judge in the case will hold a hearing on their request to impose $2 million in sanctions on ALCR, the owner of the site.

Meanwhile, a new Superior Court judge in the 13-month-old Club West lawsuit has given Shea Homes and golf course owner The Edge until Jan. 20 to address the Club West Conservancy’s request that they restore the site to an 18-hole championship venue and be banned from ever selling any part of the venue for home construction.

Ever since the Conservancy filed the initial lawsuit in early December 2021, The Edge has been trying to have the

case dismissed on grounds the Conservancy had no standing while Shea Homes wants to be released, saying it transferred the land-use rights for the `64-acre site to The Edge and therefore has nothing to do with it any longer.

The Conservancy claims both Shea Homes and UDC – the homebuilder that preceded it in developing the Foothills Club West community – had made the golf course a major part of its marketing effort to lure buyers and that its sales agreements with at least some homeowners guaranteed the site would always be open for golf.

Judge Timothy Thomason last month rejected requests by Shea and The Edge to dismiss the case outright and the suit is now before Judge Margaret Mahoney, who has not scheduled any hearing pending the defendants’ formal response to the Conservancy’s allegations.

In the Lakes case, attorney Tim Barnes, representing homeowners Linda Swain and Eileen Breslin, wants Judge Melissa Iyer Julian to impose a $2 million sanction on ALCR for not fully complying

with an earlier judge’s November 2020 schedule for reopening the course.

While ALCR fully reopened in November, Barnes alleges ALCR failed to meet Judge Theodore Campagnolo’s order to have the course fully operational by Sept. 1, 2022.

Although another judge extended that deadline to allow newly planted grass to take a firm root, Barnes contends that a number of problems remain and therefore ALCR is in violation of Campagnolo’s directive for the course’s restoration.

The primary allegation involves ALCR’s failure to rebuild the clubhouse and instead provide “a 15 ft. by 32 ft. manufactured building” that Barnes said further violates the orders of both Campagnolo and the very first judge to handle the case, Judge John Hannah.

“The Sanctions Order expressly requires ALCR to restore the Golf Course with all the ‘amenities mentioned in the Declarations, such as a pro shop, pathways, etc.,’” Barnes wrote, citing other problems like broken golf cart paths and

graffiti.

“Because Ahwatukee Lakes was Arizona’s top–rated executive golf course, its ample clubhouse was a bustling center of sport, commerce, community and camaraderie – part of the backdrop for Judge Hannah’s finding that any restoration must be ‘consistent with the reasonable expectations that the golf course created among the benefitted homeowners.”

Attorney Daniel Maynard, representing ALCR accused Barnes and his clients of seeking “an unjustified windfall” by asking a judge to impose a $2 million sanction on his client.

In his lengthy rebuttal, he addressed each of Barnes’ complaints, and attacked his assertion that Lakes homeowners have seen the value of their homes decline and have suffered a loss in the quality of life during the course’s closure.

The Jan. 23 hearing set by Julian could last all day as it will be devoted to Barnes’ presentation of evidence to support his sanction request. 

Matt Tobias General Manager

one 4-unit attached building and two 6-unit attached buildings” with a total 16 homes with two-car garages and driveways.

Another 40 homes would be built in a series of two-story duplexes immediately around the converted hotel.

Since 1991, the site has seen two different hotels – first the Grace Inn and then Sheraton – and Caliber noted the initial hope was that it would become a mecca for hospitality, office or commercial uses.

“But over the many years, that vision has not been realized and this prime piece of real estate has sat vacant for decades and has become an eyesore to some,” it said, blaming inadequate access and the winding main driveway leading from 51st Street to the hotel and undeveloped portions nearby.

Adding to the failed vision of a vibrant commercial/hospitality/office center, Caliber said, is the fact that “there is no market for hotel use at this intersection.”

“COVID-19, and its negative effect on the demand for office developments, has only made this situation worse,” Caliber said.

While the development calls for 315 total parking spaces, Caliber obtained

Caliber plans to build two styles buildings for single-family rental units. This type would have one four-unit, fourstory attached building and two three-story, sixunit attached buildings with individual twocar garages. (Caliber)

While the hotel’s 61-foot height will obviously be untouched, Caliber’s new buildings would be within the county’s 40-foot requirement.

The developer also said a traffic analysis by Lokahi of Scottsdale estimates the complex will generate 14% fewer vehicle trips than the hotel produces and add only one trip to the morning rush hour and six trips to the evening rush hour.

“The proposed Four Point development is anticipated to result in minimal traffic-related impacts to the existing roadway network and surrounding area,” Caliber said.

county approval for a reduction of the its requirement of two spaces per unit to 1.68 spaces and 20% of all spaces for guest parking. It called that ratio “outdated and extremely high for today’s multifamily projects.”

County planners agreed with that projection, stating, “It is anticipated that the hotel conversion won’t adversely impact peak hour trips during the weekday and the conversion to a less intense use will offer an overall trip reduction over the course of the average weekday.”

Caliber gave no timetable for the project, and said it does not yet know if the project will be developed in one or more phases. 

ABOVE: The second building type on the Sheraton site is a two-story single-family duplex. These buildings will have yards and patios. RIGHT: The six-story Four Points by Sheraton Phoenix South Mountain (top photo) would look different after the developer completes its conversion into an apartment building (bottom). (Caliber)

AZ firefighters pioneer ‘forever chemical’ treatment

BY SCOTT SHUMAKER AFN Staff Writer

Donating blood can save lives, but in the future, doctors may also prescribe rolling up a sleeve and exposing a vein for the health of certain donors.

Research from Australia published in 2021 suggests blood donations reduce the donor’s concentration of a class of toxic substances called “per- and polyfluoroakyl substances,” or PFAS, popularly called “forever chemicals.”

PFAS don’t really last “forever,” but they earned the moniker because some stay in the body for almost 10 years and accumulate in organs, blood and bones with repeated exposures.

Recent research link PFAS to higher cancer rates, decreased birth weight, hormone disruption, elevated blood pressure and increased incidence of preeclampsia in pregnant women.

Firefighters are at higher risk of PFAS exposure due to the chemicals in foams and protective gear as well as in household products burned in fires.

The Australian study showed firefighters with high PFAS levels who gave blood regularly saw a 10% decrease in their levels after a year and those who gave plasma – the clear part of the blood – dropped 30%.

Arizona firefighters could play a key role in developing the next chapter of this insight when the University of Arizona, Arizona State University and the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association partner on a $4 million study this year that hopes to enroll 1,500 Arizona firefighters.

The study came in response to a call from the AFCA for more research on PFAS and firefighter safety.

At roughly 20% of the professional firefighters in Arizona, the Arizona study could provide a pool to confirm whether regular blood and plasma donations lower PFAS and produce measurable health improvements.

Arizona firefighters who volunteer will have their PFAS levels tested and those with the top 20% of concentrations will give blood every 12 weeks or plasma every six weeks. Their PFAS levels and DNA health indicators will be tested at the beginning and end of the study.

Those with lower levels will have the option to join other studies and participate in other interventions involving diet and exercise.

Lead investigator Dr. Jeff Burgess, a professor and director of the U of A’s Center for Firefighter Health Collaborative Research, said the Arizona study aims to validate the Australian study and take it a step further by also measuring firefighters for “biomarkers of toxicity.”

The biomarkers will provide data on whether lowering PFAS blood levels improves health, as researchers suspect it will.

“It’s going to be a big deal,” he said of the study. “In addition to being able to determine whether we can lower the PFAS levels in firefighters and have a beneficial effect, these same findings should be generalizable to individuals in the general population that also have elevated PFAS levels.”

Burgess and collaborator Dr. Floris Wardenaar of Arizona State University’s College of Health Solutions don’t expect any difficulty recruiting the target number of participants because the research questions came from local firefighters.

Burgess said firefighters want to know their PFAS levels, and one immediate perk of the study is getting that information.

Burgess said the results of the study could have implications far beyond the firefighting community.

“There’s a lot of those people out there who have higher levels of PFAS exposure,” Burgess said. “Maybe it’s in their drinking water. Maybe they get exposed to it at work. … This will help all those individuals.”

Some may wonder, what happens to those who receive donated blood from people with elevated PFAS – won’t they inherit the health risks?

PFAS could be passed to blood recipients, but Burgess said the benefits of the donated blood outweighs the risks of the limited exposure to blood with elevated PFAS.

“We’ve been really close to talking with the main blood and plasma donation centers in the state, and … they are supportive of this study,” Burgess said. “There’s a strong benefit of giving blood and plasma. It’s needed. These are life

saving products.”

Everybody’s problem

Due to their surprising heat-, waterand stain-resistant properties, developed in the ‘40s and ‘50s, PFAS have been used in both household products like non-stick pans and stain protectors as well as industrial uses like aerospace manufacturing.

With a chemical bond between carbon and fluorine atoms, one of the strongest in nature, PFAS molecules resist breaking down in the body and environment.

PFAS are slowly being phased out from many consumer products, but because of their persistence in the environment, they have found their way into the soil, air and water all across the world, including Arizona, and will continue to pose dangers.

To get a sense of the volume of PFAS used in the modern world, consider that

just one large PFAS producer, 3M, reported to shareholders last month that it currently sells $1.3 billion worth of PFAS each year.

That disclosure was part of a December announcement in which the company said it would be phasing out production of PFAS by 2025.

Burgess said global PFAS blood levels are slowly decreasing, a shift that he compared to the drop in lead levels in blood after changes to laws regarding lead in gasoline and other products.

But due to PFAS’ persistence and wide usage, change will not be overnight.

One way PFAS spread from industrial sites and firefighting training facilities is by leaching from contaminated soils into groundwater.

Testing by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has shown this

This map identifies sites in Arizona where PFAS have been detected in groundwater.9 Courtesy Environmental Working Group.)

Falling child vaccine rates here alarm health officials

BY COLE JANUSZEWSKI Cronkite News

Vaccination rates among schoolchildren in Arizona have steadily declined since 2012, but the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the drop across the state.

The trend is unlikely to reverse any time soon, which could result in serious health consequences for Arizonans in the future, experts fear.

Since 2020, routine preventative health care visits and vaccinations for kids have fallen 30% to 50% in Arizona, said Dr. Sean Elliott, who specializes in pediatric infectious diseases and is an emeritus professor of pediatrics at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. The drop occurred because doctor’s offices were shut down by pandemic precautions.

“There were no in-person health visits,” Elliott said. “Children were not coming to the pediatrician’s office for their routine care and vaccinations.”

But even as pandemic restrictions have been lifted, he said, parents still aren’t bringing their children to the doctor.

Arizona’s vaccination rates also have been depressed by misinformation campaigns about vaccines and a distrust in governments overseeing public health, which Elliott said deepened during and after the pandemic.

“Unfortunately, there continues to be the anti-vax movement,” he said. “Prepandemic, the rates of vaccines, the rates of uptake of science and the trust in health care professionals was already being attacked and was suffering.”

“The biggest concern, both at an individual level and at a societal level, is that growing up kids will be increasingly at risk for what used to be preventable pediatric illnesses – like measles and mumps,” Elliott said. “And the time to protect them with vaccines is in the first couple years of life. It takes their immature, brand-new immune system and gives it the exposure it needs to create lifelong protection.”

Although children can be vaccinated later, the risk for the most serious infections occurs within the first few years. Elliott also said immunocompromised children will be put at risk

because Arizona has dropped below the herd immunity threshold of 95% vaccination rate.

“When we drop below a certain percentage of a community that is vaccinated, then those infections can gain a toehold and can create cases,” he said.

Arizona has seen recent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles and mumps, according to the state Department of Health Services. Elliott said health care providers and governments can take steps to stem the wave of anti-vaccination.

“The most important thing is to get kids and families back into their primary care provider’s office,” he said. “It is, thankfully, still true that most Americans trust their health care providers if they have an opportunity to listen to them and ask them questions.”

A 2016 study by the National Library of Medicine also found that “education is a key player” in getting children vaccinated. Some parents choose not to vaccinate their kids because of misplaced fears about the ingredients and side-effects of vaccines, the study said.

Another solution Elliott proposed is to limit religious and personal exemptions – which have ticked up since pandemic restrictions were loosened. Currently, the Arizona Department of Health Services says parents can opt to not vaccinate their children if they submit a signed ADHS Personal Beliefs Exemption Form testifying that immunizations are against their personal beliefs.

Even with government intervention, Elliott and the National Library of Medicine said, the most challenging and most important thing is to regain the trust of the American people.

“Healthy relationships between a practitioner and parent can go a long way toward helping patients” vaccinate their children, the National Library of Medicine study said. “Trust is paramount and will help put parents at ease and help them overcome unmerited fears.”

“No one is trying to hoodwink or hide information,” Elliott said. “If I am asked a question by a concerned vaccine hesitant parent, I am going to give them an honest answer but they have to ask the question.” 

process happening in Arizona, and with long-term drought potentially pushing Arizona cities to rely more heavily on groundwater reserves in the near future, the question of groundwater contamination by PFAS and its health consequences could not be coming at a more critical time

In 2018, the ADEQ checked for PFAS in 109 public water service wells across the state, out of the state’s approximately 1,500 public water wells.

The good news was 81% of samples had no detectable PFAS, but 5.5% of wells it tested contained PFAS levels above the EPA Health Advisory.

The report concluded that PFAS groundwater contamination in Arizona “tends to be localized near potential sources” of PFAS, such as firefighter training facilities, airports, factories and active or former military sites.

In the East Valley, wells with PFAS detections have been found in the City of Tempe water system and Salt River Public Works on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

In Mesa, PFAS have been found in groundwater near the landfill of the former Williams Air Force Base, now Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport.

ADEQ research determined PFAS have never been manufactured in Arizona.

“Most people in the United States have been exposed to some PFAS,” an EPA website concludes. “Most known exposures are relatively low, but some can be high, particularly when people are exposed to a concentrated source over long periods of time.”

Why Arizona

One reason Arizona is pioneering the question of PFAS and blood donation is the strong relationships between local researchers and the fire service.

Another is the availability of grant money to do community-directed research.

The $4 million price tag for the PFAS study comes from the Technology and Research Initiative Fund, a pot of money created through Prop. 301 in 2000 and funded by sales taxes.

Fred DuVal, chair-elect of the Arizona Board of Regents, said the fund is intended to encourage the world-class re-

Dr. Jeff Burgess, professor in the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, said the Arizona study aims to validate the Australian study and take it a step further by also measuring firefighters for “biomarkers of toxicity.” (University of Arizona Health Sciences/Kris Hanning)

searchers who work at state universities to tackle Arizona-specific projects.

“We’re trying to fund projects that taxpayers relate to and address problems people are facing,” DuVal said, adding that governors’ priorities also influence

the selections.

The projects funded by this year’s TIRF grants include Valley Fever and dust research, managing waste from abandoned mines, mitigating wildfire risk and smart tree watering to cool down cities.

DuVal said the TIRF grants, which are approved by the Board of Regents, are selected in a more subjective way than other competitive scientific grants might be.

He said winning projects for TIRF grants should be able to pass “the Circle K test.”

“If you can’t explain your research in the time it takes to buy a cup of coffee, then you aren’t doing your job,” DuVal said.

He added that this principle was especially important because the research is funded directly by taxpayers, who should be able to understand what they’re funding.

DuVal is excited about the firefighter blood donation study, the second-largest grant this year behind the Valley Fever project.

“We want to take this to scale,” he said. “If we can solve (this problem), it’s a national-scale, global project.”

Falling child vaccine rates here alarm health officials WARNING!

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AND CHRONIC PAIN TREATMENTS NOT WORKING!!

Mesa, AZ – When it comes to chronic pain and/ or neuropathy, the most common doctor-prescribed treatment is drugs like Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Neurontin. The problem with antidepressants or anti-seizure medications like these is that they offer purely symptomatic relief, as opposed to targeting and treating the root of the problem. Worse, these drugs often trigger an onset of uncomfortable, painful, and sometimes harmful side effects.

The only way to effectively treat chronic pain and/or peripheral neuropathy is by targeting the source, which is the result of nerve damage owing to inadequate blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. This often causes weakness, numbness, balance problems. A lack of nutrients causes the nerves degenerate – an insidious

cannot survive, and thus, slowly die. This leads to those painful and frustrating consequences we were talking about earlier, like weakness, numbness, tingling, balance issues, and perhaps even a burning sensation.

The drugs your doctor might prescribe will temporarily conceal the problems, putting a “Band-Aid” over a situation that will only continue to deteriorate without further action.

Thankfully, Mesa is the birthplace of a brandnew facility that sheds new light on this pressing problem of peripheral neuropathy and chronic pain. The company is trailblazing the medical industry by replacing outdated drugs and symptomatic reprieves with an advanced machine that targets the root of the problem at hand.

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Aspen Medical in Mesa, AZ uses a state-of-the-art electric cell signaling systems worth $100,000.00.

Th is ground-breaking treatment is engineered to achieve the following, accompanied by advanced diagnostics and a basic skin biopsy to accurately analyze results:

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The treatment works by delivering energy to the affected area(s) at varying wavelengths, from low- to middle-frequency signals, while also using Amplitude Modulated (AM) and Frequency Modulated (FM) signaling

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Aspen Medical begins by analyzing the extent of the nerve damage –a complimentary service for your friends and family. Each exam comprises a detailed sensory evaluation, extensive peripheral vascular testing, and comprehensive analysis of neuropathy findings.

Aspen Medical will be offering this free chronic pain and neuropathy severity evaluation will be available until January 31st, 2023 Call (480) 274-3157 to make an appointment

BY COLE JANUSZEWSKI Cronkite News

Vaccination rates among schoolchildren in Arizona have steadily declined since 2012, but the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the drop across the state.

The trend is unlikely to reverse any time soon, which could result in serious health consequences for Arizonans in the future, experts fear.

Since 2020, routine preventative health care visits and vaccinations for kids have fallen 30% to 50% in Arizona, said Dr. Sean Elliott, who specializes in pediatric infectious diseases and is an emeritus professor of pediatrics at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. The drop occurred because doctor’s offices were shut down by pandemic precautions.

“There were no in-person health visits,” Elliott said. “Children were not coming to the pediatrician’s office for their routine care and vaccinations.”

But even as pandemic restrictions have been lifted, he said, parents still aren’t bringing their children to the doctor.

will be put at risk because Arizona has dropped below the herd immunity threshold of 95% vaccination rate.

“When we drop below a certain percentage of a community that is vaccinated, then those infections can gain a toehold and can create cases,” he said.

Arizona has seen recent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles and mumps, according to the state Department of Health Services. Elliott said health care providers and governments can take steps to stem the wave of anti-vaccination.

“The most important thing is to get kids and families back into their primary care provider’s office,” he said. “It is, thankfully, still true that most Americans trust their health care providers if they have an opportunity to listen to them and ask them questions.”

A 2016 study by the National Library of Medicine also found that “education is a key player” in getting children vaccinated. Some parents choose not to vaccinate their kids because of misplaced fears about the ingredients and side-effects of vaccines, the study said.

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As displayed in figure 1 above, the nerves are surrounded by diseased, withered blood vessels. A lack of sufficient nutrients means the nerves

Effective neuropathy treatment relies on the following three factors:

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Aspen Medical 4540E Baseline Rd.,Suite 119 Mesa AZ, 85206

Arizona’s vaccination rates also have been depressed by misinformation campaigns about vaccines and a distrust in governments overseeing public health, which Elliott said deepened during and after the pandemic.

“Unfortunately, there continues to be the anti-vax movement,” he said. “Pre-pandemic, the rates of vaccines, the rates of uptake of science and the trust in health care professionals was already being attacked and was suffering.”

“The biggest concern, both at an individual level and at a societal level, is that growing up kids will be increasingly at risk for what used to be preventable pediatric illnesses – like measles and mumps,” Elliott said. “And the time to protect them with vaccines is in the first couple years of life. It takes their immature, brand-new immune system and gives it the exposure it needs to create lifelong protection.”

Although children can be vaccinated later, the risk for the most serious infections occurs within the first few years. Elliott also said immunocompromised children

Another solution Elliott proposed is to limit religious and personal exemptions – which have ticked up since pandemic restrictions were loosened. Currently, the Arizona Department of Health Services says parents can opt to not vaccinate their children if they submit a signed ADHS Personal Beliefs Exemption Form testifying that immunizations are against their personal beliefs.

Even with government intervention, Elliott and the National Library of Medicine said, the most challenging and most important thing is to regain the trust of the American people.

“Healthy relationships between a practitioner and parent can go a long way toward helping patients” vaccinate their children, the National Library of Medicine study said. “Trust is paramount and will help put parents at ease and help them overcome unmerited fears.”

“No one is trying to hoodwink or hide information,” Elliott said. “If I am asked a question by a concerned vaccine hesitant parent, I am going to give them an honest answer but they have to ask the question.” 

www.ahwatukee.com

Rabbi, wife aim for special community here

BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor

Rabbi Levi Minsky and his wife Chaya arrived in Ahwatukee a few months ago with a zeal appropriate to the mission they carved out for themselves before leaving Brooklyn in New York City.

They have created Chabad of Ahwatukee, one of the newest chabads among more than 5,000 around the world.

Chabad is an Orthodox Hasidic sect based in Brooklyn and is sometimes known as Lubavitch or Chabad-Lubavitch after the Russian town where the movement was centered in the 19th century.

It is considered the best-known and most visible of Hasidic sects, thanks to decades of outreach work seeking to bring non-religious Jews closer to their faith. Chabad engages with the broader Jewish community, embracing technology and communications tools to

spread its message and global presence. That drive to engage largely explains why the Minskys are in Ahwatukee.

Rabbi Minsky explained that when he

pondered where in Arizona he would like to call home, he thought “Ahwatukee sounded like a nice, close-knit community” – and an opportunity.

“It felt like an opportunity to not only build a central synagogue like in Brooklyn,” he explained, envisioning “a community where people know each other, learn from each other, learn different backgrounds.”

Now that they are settled into their new home, they are pursuing their life mission, he said: “To bring Judaism to any place in the world and bring people the joy of Judaism – to light the flame of Jewish tradition all over.”

That zeal goes hand in hand with his religious calling.

For as long as he can remember, Minsky wanted to be a rabbi and accomplished his goal in 2020 when he received his Rabbinical Ordination.

“It was my life-long dream to be a rabbi and spiritual leader,” he said.

He plowed into Talmudical and rabbinical studies that took him around

Chad Wilson Bailey celebrates a new album

BY LAURA LATZKO AFN Contributor

For Ahwatukee singer/songwriter

Chad Wilson Bailey, music has always been a fundamental part of his life.

For his newest album “Little Bourbon,” he provides a personal glimpse into his relationship with his wife, Amanda Bailey.

Wilson Bailey will celebrate the album with a second release party on Jan. 21 at Walter Station Brewery. “Little Bourbon” officially hit stores in October.

Chad will perform with Amanda as well as bass player Mr. P-Body, drummer David “Creamy” Libman, guitar player Jayson Johnson and synth and keyboard player Andrew Chizmeshya.

Chad has four albums under his belt,

including “Origin of Light” in 2018 and “Build Me a Fire” in 2015.

For “Origin of Light,” a meditative, introspective and peaceful album, Amanda contributed melody ideas. “Little Bourbon” was more collaborative.

Amanda began performing with Chad a few months ago during an album release party at Old Town Tavern.

“I was excited to do it, but I was definitely nervous,” Amanda said.

“I don’t consider myself a singer. I say to him I’m an accidental singer… There are so many incredible vocalists and singers. I just feel like Chad is one of the absolute top musicians in the Valley. So, I feel like he should be playing and singing with the best. I’m not a trained vocalist or really experienced. I feel a little bit like an imposter.

“At the same time, I have to tell my-

self we wrote these songs. These are our songs…. I was nervous, but I kept my cool… I wanted to make him proud and do the songs justice.”

Amanda’s background is as a DJ, a yoga instructor and a high school dance teacher. She regularly incorporates Chad’s music into her classes.

“She really understands music structure and melody…. As a dance teacher, she really understands timing, how songs work together and movement. She brings a wealth of experience from a different perspective musically,” Chad said.

Amanda said they bonded over writing music.

Chad explained that because the album is so personal, sometimes performing the songs can be emotional.

Ahwatukee singer/singerwriter Chad Wilson Bailey is psyched about his newest album. (Special to AFN)

Rabbi Levi Minsky and his wife Chaya have started the Chabad of Ahwatukee. (David Minton/AFN Staff Photographer)

the world.

“I’ve visited multiple Jewish communities around the world, including around Europe and even in Asia, in Cambodia, and around the states, too,” he said, adding that Arizona was among those states. “And I’ve been involved in Jewish outreach programs around the US the past couple of years.”

As co-directors of Chabad of Ahwatukee, the Minskys chose Chanukah for a major public debut of their mission with a celebration in the Plaza at Mountainside that drew about 80 men, women and children.

“We had a lot of music; we had lighting a menorah; we had kids’ crafts – the whole celebration. It was beautiful,” the rabbi said. “People were very inspired from it. And they wanted more, they wanted to hear more, connect more. And people actually were lit up to know there’s a place for everyone here.”

The celebration also is part of the Minskys’ overall outreach effort in the community, which will include services, edu-

cational programs and special events.

And, the rabbi added, “If someone would be in need to be mentored or spoken to or needs help in any way, we will jump in and help them.”

To get the word out about Chabad of Ahwatukee, Minsky said he and his wife

tionships and love. A couple of other songs are a little more abstract.”

are utilizing social media “to connect with people and make them aware of what we’re doing.”

“It’s not only social media,” he added. “We plan on doing things like Kosher Day at local supermarkets. We’ll have main events and then we will have the

small events. We have weekly learning classes that we’re going to start on Jewish topics, interesting topics.”

And, he said, “we also are just meeting people in the street.”

In the long-term, the Minskys hope to have a physical center for the Chabad of Ahwatukee in the community.

“Our goal is to have a unique Jewish presence here in Ahwatukee,” the rabbi said. “And that presence would be having a Jewish community center for all people to just enjoy and to feel comfortable in. It would be open and welcoming for families and adults.”

While they would “like to have it as soon as we can,” the Minskys are focusing for now on building the infrastructure of the Chabad through human engagement as well as their website.

They are planning to hold Friday night dinners, or Shabbat, to provide people with “a very exciting and joyful experience just to see a Jewish tradition and have some traditional Jewish foods.”

Information: chabadahwatukee.com or contact the rabbi at 480-382-0232 or rabbiminsky@gmail.com. 

“There are moments that creep up on you emotionally, and I get surprised by how emotional I get at certain points of songs. It’s totally unexpected. It surprises you, and you realize just how much the song does mean to you,” Chad said.

Chad and Amanda worked on the album during the height of COVID-19. Their laptop broke just as they were starting to write music, so they kicked it old school with pen and paper.

“We wrote pretty much the whole album in about a week or so,” Chad said.

They recorded initial tracks at their home studio using Pro Tools and condenser microphones. They flew to Georgia to record drum parts and vocals at Chad’s brother Charles Bailey’s home studio. The album was mixed by Grammy-winning producer/sound engineer Rae DiLeo, who lives just outside of Sedona.

Chad said the album has a different focus and tone than his previous projects.

“It turned out to be a rock ‘n’ roll love album,” he says.

“It has a ’70s rock vibe. Some of the songs are, for a lack of better description, love songs, relationship songs. We got into a few different aspects of rela-

For their wedding, the pair did a choreographed number to one of the songs on the album called “I Found You.”

Amanda calls “Save Me” special. She worked on it in her spare time.

“As the album was coming together, there were several problems with the song. When he would go to his gigs late at night, I would work on the song and try to fix some of the issues. We thought for a while we weren’t going to include it on the album, but I worked on that several nights, reworked the song,” Amanda said.

When he initially picked up the guitar at 14, Chad mainly played classic blues music. Two years later, he joined his first band, a classic rock cover act that played songs by the Doors, the Who and the Kinks.

He went on to attend a university in New Zealand, where he played with a group called Nacho Mama. The group performed for an audience of over 35,000 at the Mountain Rock Festival.

For a time, he was part of a duo who performed in Colorado and California. They recorded one album for Atlantic Records.

A little while later, Chad took an audio engineering job so he could continue to work in music. He moved to the Valley in 2006 from Los Angeles and worked in the mortgage industry.

He performed at local bars every month and then the frequency increased. Often, he would go into his office job with his guitar, ready to play a gig afterward.

“You can’t leave your guitar in the car because it’s too hot,” he said.

“So, I would bring it in. And then after I would clock out, I would go into the bathroom, change into my rocker outfit and then walk out of the office feeling very silly. I did that for a while, and it was definitely burning the candle from both ends. It was exhausting but fun.”

For six years, Chad has worked as a full-time musician, performing nearly every day of the week. It’s challenging due to finances, but worth it.

He regularly plays at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown on Tuesdays and Saturdays; Old Town Tavern in Scottsdale on Thursdays; the Living Room Wine Café and Lounge in Ahwatukee for a brunch show on Sundays and the Wild Vine Uncorked in Chandler on Wednesdays.

Chad also travels to Sedona, Flagstaff,

Tucson and out of state to perform. He’s also hit states in Alaska, Colorado and Mexico

Chad has a distribution deal with Universal Music but not a record deal. Universal Music helps him with packaging and distributing music on streaming platforms.

“It allows me to have as much creativity as I want. So, it’s fun to jump around and explore different genres and different sounds,” Chad says.

“I do that when I play live, too. People will come see me, and I will incorporate a lot of different songs and genres. Sometimes, I will mash up a country/ rock song with song by The Cure, something you would never expect.” 

If You Go...

What: Chad Wilson Bailey Album Release Party

Where: Walter Station Brewery, 4056 E. Washington St., Phoenix. When: 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21 Cost: Free admission Info: chadwilsonbailey.com

Rabbi Levi Minsky was delighted with the turnout for the Chanukah celebration the Chabad of Ahwatukee held at the Plaza at Mountainside in Ahwatukee last month. (Courtesy Rabbi Levi Minsky)

WILSON BAILEY from page 23

Build-to-rent homes gaining popularity

Many renters may crave the extra bedrooms and backyard of a single-family house but they’re facing a market with still-high prices and surging mortgage interest rates, pricing many out of homeownership for now.

But a growing trend may let many of those same renters have that large house without the need of a big down payment and the angst of the mortgage process.

Builders are rushing to put up whole communities of single-family homes for

rent – including in Ahwatukee, where part of Blandford Homes’ Upper Canyon development will put 150 build-to-rent townhomes in addition to 300 apartments and 1,050 single-family homes on 373 acres along Chandler Boulevard between 19th and 27th avenues.

Renters seeking more space and privacy—but can’t afford to purchase a home—are turning to this rapidly growing build-to-rent market.

While the sector isn’t new, interest see RENT page Re2

Bonny

Mike

Taylor Morrison donating homes for MD Anderson use

AFN NEWS STAFF

Taylor Morrison is building and donating an initial six fully furnished homes to the Banner Health Foundation for an eventual 16-home community in Gilbert to support Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Home Away from Home program.

The program provides housing assistance to patients who travel great distances for care at Banner MD Anderson, the Scottsdale homebuilder said in a release.

“Treatment is complex and emotional, but through our donation, we treasure the opportunity to flex our strengths as a homebuilder to build places of sanctuary for patients and their loved ones while they navigate this challenging time in their lives,” said Taylor Morrison Chairman/CEO Sheryl Palmer.

“For Taylor Morrison to play a role in offering some relief and enabling patients to focus on healing is such a gift.”

The cost of extended lodging during cancer treatment is beyond reach for many patients and their families, Taylor Morrison noted, “especially those traveling far distances to receive care or whose treatment protocol requires weeks to months of daily therapy or close postsurgical monitoring.”

Taylor Morrison’s donated homes will be located on a parcel of land adjacent to the Banner Gateway Medical Center campus, which is home to Banner MD Anderson.

It will begin phase one next summer, with an estimated completion by summer 2024.

Last year, thousands of patients traveled more than 30 miles each way for care at Banner MD Anderson, and 330

came from outside of Arizona.

The new nearby housing will provide lodging for more than 60 patients annually.

The homes will feature floor plans from Taylor Morrison’s newly introduced build-to-rent brand Yardly, specializing in cottage-style, for-rent homes.

Floor plans will offer 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen, laundry, and gathering room. Homes will also be pet-friendly, with private backyards and doggy doors.

“We are deeply grateful to Taylor Morrison’s generosity because for many patients, having a place to stay without the financial burden is the difference between receiving care or not,” said Michael Herring, CEO at Banner Gateway Medical Center and Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center.

“Hope and healing can be found in something as simple as a safe and com-

fortable bed and a good night’s rest. With all the concerns and feelings going through a patient’s mind, a home nearby provides such relief and one less thing to worry about.”

With more than 1.5 million patient visits to the Gilbert campus and five extension clinics across the Valley, some 200 clinical trials underway, and a growing team of specialists across disciplines, Banner MD Anderson is poised to become Arizona’s leading clinical cancer research program and the vanguard of a revolution in cancer care.

Tax-deductible donations benefiting the Home Away from Home fund can be made online at give.bannerhealth.com/ tm. From Feb. 6–12, at TPC Scottsdale, WM Phoenix Open attendees can also donate while visiting the Fairway House Presented by Taylor Morrison on the 12th hole. 

ramped up during the pandemic as renters began searching for larger homes and a greater part of the workforce began working from home.

Sometimes described as “horizontal apartments,” build-to-rent communities are designed and developed with the sole intent of renting out the homes.

Over the past few decades, 3% of singlefamily starts were developed as rentals. By third quarter 2022, that number has jumped to 12%, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

While investment and planning for new build-to-rent communities had been brewing in the year leading up to COVID-19, the pandemic and rising inflation contributed to the growing interest as many would-be

homeowners are grappling with higher costs, says Robert Dietz, chief economist of the builders association.

“We know that as a result of COVID, a lot of people wanted a single-family structure. They wanted more space,” he said.

“We estimate that probably about a third of the workforce is working at home, at least a few days a week. All those factors drive demand for the single-family structure. But of course, not everyone can afford those costs.”

The build-to-rent communities feature brand-new houses with high-quality finishes as well as a garage and a yard.

Unlike an apartment rental, singlefamily rentals in a build-to-rent community offer the lifestyle of homeownership without the added expenses of maintenance – or what some call the hassle of

owning a home.

The homes generally rent for more than a typical apartment.

“We had this idea that if you build newbuild homes in a community setting and you put a management, maintenance, and amenity package, much like an apartment, you probably have something pretty attractive,” said Mark Wolf, CEO and founder of AHV Communities.

His company is one of the first developers, builders, and operators of luxury, single-family, and attached home rentals.

Since starting in 2013, AHV manages nine communities in Colorado, Texas, and Washington, with six more under construction in Texas, Alabama, and

California.

The communities feature brand-new houses with high-quality finishes as well as a garage and a yard. Residents also have access to a fitness center, clubhouse, and on-site management and maintenance in the community.

It’s the low-touch features of a buildto-rent community that draw largely millennial renters and empty nesters looking for a single-family home without the burden of homeownership.

Roughly 95% of millennials surveyed by Zonda, a real estate consultancy, want to own a home. The national homeownership

Million dollar baby

This 3,336-square-foot house in Ahwatukee’s Lakewood community on E. Brookwood Court recently sold for $1.05 million. Built in 1994, the four-bedroom, four-bath house sits along the lake with a covered backyard, high ceilings, hickory wood flooring and stunning views from a plethora of windows. (Special to AFN)

Care needed in negotiating options to renew leases

BY BEN GOTTLIEB AFN Guest Writer

After enduring the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating a barrage of state and federal executive orders inhibiting landlords’ ability to carry out eviction actions, landlords and tenants are now living in a world facing the highest rates of inflation since the Great Inflation period of the 1970s.

Skyrocketing inflation in the overall economy is translating into higher rents being demanded by landlords and carries key implications in the landlord-tenant space.

This is especially true since most landlords and tenants have not paid much attention to it lately since inflation has not been a significant news headline in decades.

In addition, long-term leases (especially commercial leases) usually provide the tenant with an option to renew the lease several years in the future from when the original lease is executed.

Some leases (mostly commercial) have provisions addressing inflation in connection with the renewal period in the event a tenant exercises a negotiated option to renew the lease. Extra attention and care should be used in drafting options to renew in leases.

Landlords may want to negotiate shorter rental periods and/or have lease provisions addressing escalating rent that accounts for rising rental rates in any renewal period, while tenants should attempt to negotiate rental rate “locks” that cap any rent increases, or at least modest rent increases to the rent.

It is important to note that most leases provide the tenant with the option to renew their lease.

The option must generally be exercised in writing and in accordance with the option to renew clause. If the tenant does not exercise the option to renew but remains at the premises, the tenant will be considered a “holdover tenant.”

Lease provisions addressing holdover terms usually contain a higher rental rate and the holdover period runs month-to-month (meaning the holdover term can be terminated with 30 days’ notice).

Many tenants are left scrambling at the end of their lease periods and do not want to renew their lease at a higher rental rate. Ultimately, if the lease is properly terminated by the landlord, the landlord could proceed with an eviction of the tenant.

In the residential context, the landlord is not permitted to “lock out” the tenant.

Rather, under the Arizona Residen-

tial Landlord Tenant Act, the landlord must proceed with a judicial eviction and obtain what is called a Writ of Restitution from the eviction judge.

In the commercial realm, if the lease permits a “lock out” remedy, the landlord may simply change the locks if the tenant has defaulted under the lease and need not pursue a judicial eviction.

Of course, a landlord cannot raise rent or charge the tenant unauthorized fees in contravention to the lease terms. In all cases, the parties should follow the terms of the lease.

Benjamin L. Gottlieb is the founding partner of Gottlieb Law at 2375 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. The firm may be reached online at GottliebLawAZ.com or 602- 899-8188. The firm handles real estate, business transaction and estate planning law, and specializes in all forms of real estate transactions and litigation.

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser sells offices for $1.35M

AFN NEWS STAFF

The founder-owner of Ahwatukee Skin & Laser has sold her office condo in the Ahwatukee Professional Plaza for just over $1.35 million to a company headed by a physician known internationally for his studies of adverse skin reactions to substances.

Valley real estate tracker reported last month that Sarah Neumann and

her partners sold the 2,840-square-foot condo, located in a single-story building with three units built in 2006 to Nochtli LLC. The Ahwatukee Professional Plaza on E. Agave Road comprises a total eight buildings. The sale price equaled $466 per square foot, according to vizzda.

Nochtli lists Dr. Curtis Hamann as its manager in its filings with the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Although the company’s purpose

home,” says Bachman.

is not listed in those papers, Hamann is described as a major authority on patch testing for contact dermatitis as well as latex and rubber-based skin allergies.

No debt was recorded in the Dec. 19 sale, vizzda said.

Neumann last month announced that Ahwatukee Skin & Laser is partnering with Saguaro Dermatology to expand the delivery of high-quality patient care in

the Valley.

Saguaro Dermatology was founded by board-certified dermatologists and brothers Dr. Carsten R. Hamann and Dr. Dathan Hamann, who also own the Contact Dermatology Institute that Dr. Curtis Hamann is associated with.

Neumann said, “This collaboration will allow our practices to provide a unique brand of dermatologic care to help more patients throughout the metro area.” 

rate, however, sits at 66% as of November.

“When we asked [millennials] why they rent, four of the five top reasons have to do with affordability,” explained Ali Wolf, chief economist at Zonda.

In today’s market, demand remains high for build-to-rent due to rising mortgage rates, said Devyn Bachman, senior vice president of research at John Burns Real Estate Consulting.

Rates averaged around 6.3% for 30-year fixed-rate loans, a sharp rise from the mid-3% range at the start of the year, according to Freddie Mac data.

“It’s more expensive than ever to own a

For instance, in San Antonio, Texas, the cost to own a three-bedroom, two-bath house listed at $289,700 with a 5% down payment on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance), along with mortgage insurance and a maintenance assumption, is about $2,800 a month.

In comparison, AHV Communities’ Farm Haus build-to-rent community in San Antonio is renting out three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom duplex homes from $2,200 (1,365 square feet) to $2,400 (1,415 square feet) a month.

Wolf said that rental prices for each AHV-owned community are determined

by the number of amenities, the layout and the local rental market.

Homeownership has long been a way that people have been able to build wealth over time that can be passed on to future generations. But the nation is in a dire housing shortage resulting in high prices and not enough properties to go around.

Those high prices and shifting attitudes have made it more acceptable to rent for longer—if not forever.

Still, the state of the current housing market does not mean that homeownership will be unattainable forever.

Dietz, of the homebuilders association, notes that the U.S. Federal Reserve won’t

keep raising interest rates forever and at some point mortgage rates will fall below 6% again. When that happens, demand for homes to own is likely to increase again.

“We want to focus on getting households into homeownership. It makes for better citizens and wealth accumulation,” Dietz said.

But what build-to-rent communities do offer is an alternative housing solution, said Bachman.

“A lot of people would rather live in this style of [housing] over an [apartment or condo building] where they have to have someone next to them or on top of them,” she said.

Realtor.com provided this report.

Arizona

AFN NEWS STAFF

Arizona is a home to second homes.

A study by the National Association of Home Builders lists Arizona among the eight states in the nation that account for half of all second homes in the country.

A “second home” is classified as a nonrental property that is not designated as a taxpayer’s principal residence.

According to NAHB, the total count of second homes was 7.15 million in 2020, accounting for 5.11% of the total housing stock. “As of 2020, the state with the largest stock of second homes was Florida (1.04 million), accounting for 10.8% of all second homes,” the association said.

South Dakota had the smallest stock, approximately 19,225 second homes, among all 50 states.

Besides Arizona and Florida, most sec-

This map shows the concentration of second homes across the country. (Courtesy of NAHB)

ond homes in the country are located in California, New York, Texas, Michigan, North Carolina and Pennsylvania.

The association said its analysis of the

county level data shows that “the concentration of second homes is not simply restricted to conventional locations like beachfront areas.”

There were 891 counties spread over 49 states, where second homes accounted for at least 10% of the local housing stock. Only Connecticut and Washington D.C. were exceptions.

Across the nation, 363 counties, 11.2% of all counties in the U.S., had at least 20% of housing units that were second homes.

Counties with at least half of their housing stock in second homes were widely spread over in 15 states.

Of these counties, six counties are in Michigan, five in Colorado, four in Wis-

consin, three in Minnesota, two in Alaska, Utah, California, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, and one county each in New York, Idaho, Missouri, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas.

How the current housing market conditions will affect second-home construction is unclear.

The builders association reported that overall builder confidence “declined every month in 2022” and that singlefamily home construction continued to decline in November across the country.

Similar trends have been reported in Maricopa and Pinal counties by the Cromford Report, the leading analyst of the Valley’s housing market. It said building permits issued by municipalities in both counties have steadily plummeted.

Second-home loans generally require

Mattress firm CEO plans vast Mesa estate

BY SCOTT SHUMAKER AFN Staff Writer

At the last Mesa Planning and Zoning Board meeting of 2022, the mood was light as board members and some city staff donned “ugly Christmas sweaters” to celebrate the season.

“I will apologize to the public in advance for the sweaters that you see up here,” board chair Jeffrey Crockett said, sporting a sweater featuring Santa Claus riding a Tyrannosaurus Rex. “This is an annual tradition that somehow unfortunately was started years ago that continues on.”

Members then got down to business, including votes on commercial, industrial and residential projects on the consent agenda and one residential subdivision discussed in open hearing.

One of the items approved on the consent agenda was a rezoning request for a single-family residence.

The case marked a rare time when “single family residence” zoning really means “single” – as in just one house.

A local mattress entrepreneur is planning a sprawling dream home on almost 5 acres in the Citrus Sub-Area of north Mesa near Val Vista Drive and Brown Road.

The property is owned by the Merwin Family Trust, which includes John Merwin, CEO of Phoenix-based Brooklyn Bedding.

Starting from humble beginnings as a mattress liquidator, his company made early, successful forays into online commerce and manufacturing its own mattresses for direct-to-consumer sales.

In early 2021, the company broke ground on a 600,000-square-foot mattress factory and headquarters in Phoe-

nix, and later that year the company was purchased by private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management.

Initial plans submitted to the city as part of rezoning request envision an estate within a historic orchard that could sit proudly among the most exclusive neighborhoods in Paradise Valley.

The Mesa General Plan intends the Citrus Sub-Area to feature low density “estate-style” homes. The city encourages property owners in the district to maintain a rural feel in part by keeping existing orange trees or planting new ones along property edges whenever possible.

This district is home to some of the city’s grandest, lowest-density neighborhoods, but the proposed Merwin estate may stand out even in this neighborhood.

It will combine two 2-plus acre lots. An existing mansion on one lot will be demolished to make way for all the out-

door amenities the architect plans for the vast grounds.

The proposed outdoors features would set the residence apart from other large homes in the area. The plan includes a lazy river winding among an island, a sand beach, a grotto, a swim-up bar, a putting green and golf hole.

The conceptual drawing includes a vineyard, courtyards, a bocce court and yoga area.

The house itself isn’t too shabby either, boasting a sports wing that includes a full basketball court, indoor golf simulator, putting area, bar and theater.

A staff presentation said the house complied with the General Plan for the neighborhood and noted that the project would leave four rows of orange trees on the Val Vista side of the property and

more down payment and a better credit score than owner-occupied home loans, Realtor.com noted.

Lenders look closely at a borrower’s debt-to-income ratio.

“Lenders look carefully to ensure that second-home buyers are financially capable of paying two mortgages,” Realtor.com said.

In a move strongly opposed by NAHB,

the Federal Housing Finance Agency in April increased upfront fees that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac charge for second home mortgage loans and certain high balance mortgage loans that exceed standard conforming loan limits.

The fees significantly increased the purchase cost of a second home and some homes in high cost areas, the association said.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac increased the upfront fees for mortgage loans

time as a neighbor and not a project representative.

on second homes between 1.125% and 3.875%. Fees vary based on the loan-tovalue ratio.

Under the plan, the buyer of a second home with a $300,000 mortgage loan amount and loan-to-value ratio of 65% will pay an additional fee of $4,875 if their mortgage is acquired by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Prior to the two agencies’ move, the same buyer would pay no additional fee for the comparable mortgage.

“With the nation in the midst of a housing affordability crisis and many more workers electing to telework, this is exactly the wrong time for federal regulators to be raising fees on homeownership and second homes,” said NAHB Chairman Chuck Fowke.

“If FHFA is truly interested in promoting housing affordability, the agency would not be taxing home buyers to pad the capital positions for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.” 

a row of trees along the rest of the perimeter.

The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval to rezone and combine the two agricultural lots into singlefamily residential zoning.

Meanwhile, during a hearing on a proposal to subdivide about 11 acres owned by Central Christian Church at Lindsay and Brown Roads into 28 lots for single family homes, one of Mesa’s prominent land use attorneys addressed the board.

But Reese Anderson, an attorney with Pew and Lake, spoke to the board this

The proposed Estates at Encanto happen to sit adjacent to Anderson’s home, and he was there to say, “yes” in my back yard.

“I thought it would be fair … just to stand as a neighbor and citizen of Mesa to voice my support for this,” Anderson said.

“Good projects deserve support, and I thought for someone in my position who usually is standing here advocating for projects with neighbors opposing, that it would be right for me to turn around and say where I see good projects, I should support those,” he continued.

Pew and Lake have represented some controversial rezoning cases recently, including the rezoning of the Power Road Food Park for townhomes, which neighbors in the large-lot subdivision adjacent opposed.

Anderson also represented the 359unit Ascend at Longbow apartment complex and mixed use development, which was approved by city council in April over fierce opposition from the Ridgeview neighborhood.

Anderson’s support at the hearing appeared designed to show that even when a project directly affects his house, he can get behind it – at least when the pro -

posed density is similar to the bordering neighborhood, as is the case with Estates at Encanto.

The average lot size of Encanto will be almost a quarter-acre.

Many of Mesa’s recent rezoning cases that have caused neighborhood outcry have involved proposals for projects with significantly higher density than the surrounding areas.

Another neighbor of Encanto supported developing the land, but worried that there was only one entrance and exist for the 28-home subdivision, among other issues raised.

The subdivision plat passed 5-0. 

Music teacher creates Esperanza Shark Strummers

BY NICOLE ASHTON AFN Guest Writer

Once a week after school, the hallways of Kyrene de la Esperanza are filled with the sounds of plucked ukulele strings emanating from music teacher Dr. Jessica Van Oostrom’s classroom courtesy of the Esperanza Shark Strummers.

After being awarded $2,500 from the 2021 Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers grant program, Van Oostrom was able to purchase a classroom set of the stringed instruments and formed the Shark Strummers.

“Ukuleles are a fun way to teach harmony and the string family,” said Van Oostrom. “I didn’t have a string instrument to teach at the elementary level, so I wrote a wish to the Fiesta Bowl Wishes for Teachers, and I won!”

So far, the group has learned four chords and six songs since beginning in September 2022. Fifth grade students Rylee and Colbie Salazar joined the group because they were curious about the unique instru-

ARC slates history series as part of 50th celebration of its founding

In 1970, only farms west of I-10 south of Phoenix when California developer Randall Presley bought a few thousand acres and began Ahwatukee with a golf course and a senior activities center. Homes were sold in senior, adults-only and family areas.

That center, now called the Ahwatukee Recreation Center, will host Ahwatukee historian and author Marty Gibson and several characters involved in those early days at 2 p.m. Jan. 21 at the center, 5001 E. Cheyenne Drive. Gibson has authored two books on Ahwatukee history.

In a panel discussion, Gibson and guests will reminisce about those days, including the construction of the “House of the Future” on Equestrian Trail that drew busloads of tourists from the airport who conveniently were driven slowly through the model homes on Mesquitewood Trail so that the they might be enticed to buy in the new development.

The public is invited to the free presentation, which is part of the ARC’s celebration of its 50th anniversary.

History sessions will also be held in February and March to highlight the pioneer residents and merchants in Ahwatukee. All sessions will be free.

ment and knew it would be a fun way to spend time with their friends after school.

“I joined because I wanted to see how interesting ukulele would be, and I also want-

AROUND AHWATUKEE

noon Jan. 13 at VaBene Italian Cuisine, 4647 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee.

He will discuss some key topics facing investors today amid inflation and the Federal Reserve’s efforts to curb it.

To reserve a seat, contact him at 480-7523-7664 or email joseph.ortiz@edwardjones.com by Jan. 6.

Ahwatukee Kiwanis Club announces coming guest speakers

The Kiwanis Club of Ahwatukee has announced a full roster of speakers for its weekly breakfasts at 7 a.m. Thursdays at Biscuits Restaurant in the Safeway Plaza on the southwest corner of Elliot Road and 48th Street.

Speakers include: Jan. 19, Paul Maryniak, executive editor of the Ahwatukee Foothills News; Jan 26, a speaker from Helping Hearts; Feb. 9, Jeff Parent, Ahwatukee Little League; Feb. 6, Kevin Robinson, Phoenix City Council candidate; March 9, Mary Adams, of Mountain View Lutheran Church; and March 16, Juan Te Dailey, of D Squared Homes for the Homeless.

Ironwood Library offers a range of free activities for all ages

Babytimes

Babies ages birth to 23 months, accompanied by a favorite adult, will enjoy songs, rhymes, books, and interactive fun Tuesdays, 10:30-11:10 a.m. Space is limited to 12 families.

Toddlertimes

Toddlers ages 24-36 months, accompanied by a favorite adult, will enjoy songs, rhymes, books, and interactive fun Thursdays, 10:30-11:10 a.m. No Toddlertime Jan. 5. Space is limited to 12 families.

Sit, Stay, Read!

Young readers & listeners can sign up for reading time with a registered therapy dog/handler team. Read with Elsa 4-5 p.m. every Tuesday.

Full STEAM Ahead

Children ages 6-12 can explore hands-on creative ways to design, experiment, and invent Saturdays 2-3 p.m., in this Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) program. No program Jan. 7. Space is limited to 10 families. No tickets are required.

Teens: Envision 2023

ed to have fun with my friends,” said Rylee.

In addition to the Shark Strummers, the sisters are members of Kyrene de la Esperanza’s mallet band as well.

“I love Dr. V and I think she’s the best music teacher ever,” said Colbie. “I love music and wanted to get involved in more musical stuff.”

The students performed for the first time in front of their classmates on last month/. The setlist included classic winter songs, including “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” and “Frosty the Snowman.”

“Doing the performances is the best part, seeing how excited they are on stage and making a great memory with them has been the best,” said Van Oostrom.

The Esperanza Shark Strummers are just one example of how Kyrene teachers put grant dollars right back into the classroom, in service to students. Van Oostrom received the Wishes for Teachers grant in 2021. Six Kyrene educators received the grant in 2022. 

Participation offers an opportunity for those wanting experience in a work environment for school, scholarship, or job applications. Online volunteer applications are available at volunteer.phoenix.gov. Under “Browse by Interest” choose “Library,” in the “Keyword” box type “Ironwood,” and complete the appropriate application.

A volunteer coordinator will notify applicants when the first meeting will take place.

Sit and Stitch

Join fellow stitchers and work on your current project on 3-4:45 p.m. today, Jan 4. Knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch, needlepoint are all welcomed. No tickets or registration required.

Next Chapter Book Club

This inclusive community-based book club is designed for people ages 12+ with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have a desire to make friends, explore their community, and read (regardless of current reading ability). This weekly gathering is free and occurs 3:30-4:30 p.m. every Wednesdays.

Registration is required and available in the library or online in the Calendar section of the library’s website.

Book Club

Ahwatukee

financial

planner Joseph Ortiz offering luncheon discussion

Ahwatukee financial planner Joseph Ortiz of Edward Jones has scheduled a luncheon discussion at

Ironwood Library, 4333 E Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee, presents a variety of programs for children, teens and adults. Unless otherwise noted, free tickets are required and available 30 minutes before programs’ start times at the library’s information desk.

For more information: phoenixpubliclibrary.org.

Teens are invited 4-5 p.m. Jan. 24 to make vision boards – a collage of images or objects that represent their goals – to motivate them all year long. They can bring photos or objects to but it’s not required. All supplies will be provided. No tickets required.

Library Teen Council

Ironwood is looking for teens ages 12-17 who would like to help organize programs, create displays, and improve the library experience for all library users.

Adult readers 18 and over can meet up with fellow adventuresome bibliophiles to share their thoughts about each month’s selection the 5-5:45 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month.

The book Feb. 1 is “A Woman of No Importance” by Sonia Purnell. 

Kyrene music teacher Dr. Jessica Van Oostrom created the Esperanza Shark Strummers with the help of new string instruments she bought with a Fiesta Bowl Wishes grant. (Courtesy of Kyrene School District)

AZ zip codes turn up gold for residents

“If you live in the state of Arizona you need to find the first three digits of your zip code listed in today’s newspaper announcement and call immediately,” said Laura A. Lynne, Director of Coin and Currency for National Mint and Treasury.

That’s because Arizona residents can really cash in for the next 48 hours. Here’s why. Non-state residents and those who miss the 48-hour deadline must pay $8 per coin, but Arizona residents who take the Vault Bricks cover just the $4 per coin state minimum. That means Arizona residents get all 125 coins with rare 24 Karat Gold Layering for just $500 which is a real steal since non-state residents must pay over $1,000 for each Vault Brick. And it gets even better for those claiming the Jumbo Gold Vault Bricks.

This is all happening because thousands of U.S. residents stand to miss the deadline to claim the gold. Now any resident who finds the first three digits of their zip code listed in today’s publication and calls to verify it gets to claim the Gold Vault Bricks for themselves and keep all the valuable gold found inside.

And here’s the best part. Arizona residents who find the first three digits of their zip code listed in today’s publication are getting Sealed Vault Bricks containing the only Arizona State Gold Bank Rolls known to exist with the exclusive State Restricted Design and each loaded with rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Buffalo Nickels layered in valuable 24 Karat Gold by National Mint and Treasury.

“As Director of Coin and Currency for National Mint and Treasury, one of my jobs is to deliver breaking news. And today’s announcement confirming the release of Sealed Gold Vault Bricks to residents of the state of Arizona is as big as it gets,” Lynne said.

“So my advice is this, anyone who gets an opportunity to get their hands on one of these Gold Vault Bricks full of coins issued by the U.S. Gov’t nearly 100 years ago with rare 24 Karat Gold layering from the National Mint and Treasury better jump at the chance while they still can,” Lynne said.

“These Gold Vault Bricks make the most impressive gifts for Christmas, birthdays, graduations, weddings, and any other occasion, especially for that hard-to-buy-for person,” Lynne said.

According to Ms. Lynne, since thousands

Contents inside sealed Vault Bricks reveal old U.S. coins with added 24 Karat Gold Layering minted nearly

100 years ago are actually being handed over to Arizona residents who find their zip code below; but only those who beat the 48 hour deadline are getting them at just state minimum

(Continued from previous page)

of U.S. residents stand to miss the deadline to claim the gold, today and tomorrow are intended as a “special 48 hour release” for the benefit of Arizona residents. This gives them a fair chance to claim the Sealed Gold Vault Bricks and all the valuable gold loaded inside for themselves.

But, Ms. Lynne added, “The Sealed Gold Vault Bricks are only available as inventory permits during the special 48 hour release so please do not miss the deadline.” The director added, “We have no power to stop coin dealers, resellers or collectors buying up all the Gold Vault Bricks they can get their hands on,” Lynne said.

”We already know the phones will be ringing off the hook. That’s why hundreds of agents are standing by to answer the phones beginning at 8:30am this morning. We’re going to do our best, but with just 48 hours to answer all the calls it won’t be easy. So make sure to tell everyone to keep calling if all lines are busy. We’ll do our best to answer them all,” Lynne said.

“That’s why National Mint and Treasury set up the State Distribution Hotlines in order to make sure residents of Arizona can get them now,” Lynne said.

The only thing readers of today’s newspaper publication need to do is make sure they live in one of the zip codes listed and call the State Distribution Hotlines before the special 48 hour deadline ends midnight tomorrow. ■

Answering Your Questions

Q: How much are the Gold Vault Bricks worth?

A: It’s impossible to say, but these Buffalos date clear back to the early 1900’s and are not ordinary U.S. coins. That’s because only an extremely low percentage of Buffalos were then commissioned by National Mint and Treasury to be covered with rarely seen 24 Karat Gold Layering, then sealed and protected in brilliant collector condition inside special 25 count Arizona Bank Rolls. That’s why you better hurry if you want to get your hands on them. Collector values always fluctuate and there are never any guarantees. But we do know they are the only Arizona State Bank Rolls known to exist. So anyone lucky enough to get their hands on these sealed Vault Bricks should hold onto them because there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value someday.

Q: Why are so many Arizona residents calling to get them?

A: Because they are the only Arizona State Bank Rolls known to exist we’re bracing for the flood of calls. These are not ordinary Bank Rolls. These are full Bank Rolls containing 25 Buffalos dating clear back to the early 1900’s. Best of all each Buffalo is layered in 24 Karat Gold and the state minimum set by National Mint and Treasury is restricted to Arizona residents who find the first three digits of their zip code listed in today’s publication and beat the deadline only. That means Arizona residents cover only $4 per Buffalo when they claim the Gold Vault Bricks, which is just $500 for the next 2 days.

Q: How do I get the Gold Vault Bricks?

A: The only thing Arizona residents need to do is find the first three digits of their zip code in today’s publication and call the State Toll-Free Hotline at 1-800-280-4564 Ext. GNH1511 before the deadline ends. Everyone who does is getting the Bank Rolls for just the state minimum. That’s a sealed Gold Vault Brick containing the only Arizona State Bank Rolls known to exist each loaded with the rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Buffalo Nickels layered in valuable 24 Karat Gold for just the $4 per coin state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury, which totals just $500 for the full sealed Gold Vault Brick. That’s a real steal because state residents and non-state residents who miss the deadline must pay $1,000 for each sealed Gold Vault Brick if any remain.

is a

Bricks.

Gold Vault Bricks

Arizona State Gold Bank Rolls containing U.S. Buffalos

layered in 24 Karat Gold. The phone lines will be ringing off the hook beginning at precisely 8:30 am this morning. That’s because Arizona residents can really cash in for the next 48 hours. Here’s why. Non-state residents and those who miss the 48-hour deadline must pay $8 per coin, but Arizona residents who take the Gold Vault Bricks pictured above cover just the $4 per coin state minimum. That means Arizona residents get all 125 coins with rare 24 Karat Gold Layering for just $500 which is a real steal since non-state residents must pay over $1,000 for each Gold Vault Brick. And it gets even better for those claiming the Jumbo Gold Vault Bricks.

NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, LLC IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. MINT, THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, A BANK OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. IF FOR ANY REASON WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM SHIPMENT YOU ARE DISSATISFIED, RETURN THE PRODUCT FOR A REFUND LESS RETURN POSTAGE. THIS SAME OFFER MAY BE MADE AVAILABLE AT A LATER DATE OR IN A DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, PO BOX 35609, CANTON, OH 44735 ©2022 NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY.

■ FIRST LOOK INSIDE GOLD VAULT BRICKS: Shown above

sneak peak inside the Gold Vault

The

are loaded with

each

New restaurant here brings Cantonese classics

BY GERI KOEPPEL AFN Contributor

Ah-Wok-Tukee Asian Cuisine, featuring Cantonese classics and more, soft-opened Dec. 5 on Chandler Boulevard near South Marketplace Way in Ahwatukee Foothills and already has seen lines out the door.

The grand opening is slated for Jan. 7, with discounts at dinner for dine-in only.

Owner Tammy Loc, who moved to the neighborhood from Gilbert in 2020, correctly predicted the market demand.

She said she got the idea for the eatery after noticing the space was vacant and realizing there were no Asian restaurants in the immediate area.

“Everybody who comes in, the first thing they say to us is, ‘Thank you for having this here, because we needed it,” Loc said.

In addition, with 1,050 homes and more

than 450 rental units planned farther west in the Upper Canyon development between 19th and 27th Avenues, “that encouraged me to jump at it,” she said.

As a teenager, Loc ran her parents’ Asian restaurant in southern California. Though she entered a career in real estate, she noted, “My all-time goal was to open my own restaurant.”

Once she started seriously considering the idea, she contacted her brother, Jason Loc, who was a chef in Alaska with 15 years’ experience in the industry. Loc asked if he’d be interested in helping her open, and he moved to Arizona in May.

Jason Loc serves as Ah-Wok-Tukee’s “wok master,” Loc said. “He can fry two woks at one time,” she said.

Head chef Steven Ly, who has 30 years in the business, oversees the products and food, and Lee Thao is the manager.

Ah-Wok-Tukee Asian Cuisine manager Lee Thao and owner Tammy Loc already are seeing lines out the door for the restaurant’s flavorful Cantonese specialties and more. The grand opening is Jan. 7. (Geri Koeppel/AFN Contributor)

Pakistani woman restaurant owner made inroads in U.S.

BY ANISA SHABIR AFN Contributor

Guy Fieri is leaning back, his right foot up against a black signpost, his smile stiff beneath a black and white goatee. His eyes are looking straight into the camera – or at least his sunglasses are.

The poster sits near the checkout counter at Curry Corner, and beneath his photo, the celebrity chef has written words that Farah Khalid cherishes: “Curry Corner, Keep Cookin’… Guy!”

Khalid is the owner of Curry Corner, an unpretentious but beloved Pakistani restaurant near the Arizona State University campus, that is, as the Phoenix New Times puts it, “the go-to take-out place for many locals craving curry or perhaps a big succulent heap of tandoori-cooked chicken or kebabs.”

For 20 years, it also has been a mainstay for college students, especially

those who come from South Asia and who miss the foods they have grown up with. Curry Corner’s food reminds them

so much of home and Khalid so much of family members that they soon begin calling her “mom or aunty,” Khalid said.

“I come here thrice or four times a week,” said Anish Jain, who lives across the street from the restaurant, “I am from India, but we share the same border with Pakistan and the food tastes the same as if I eat at home.”

Khalid grew up in Pakistan and married a diplomat, which meant postings to different countries.

The first was to Austria in 1985, where she gave birth to her two children – a daughter and a son. The family went on to live in England, Portugal, Sydney and Qatar before arriving in the U.S. in 1998.

Her travels brought her into close contact with new cultures. “When you go to different places, you see their culture, and it makes you know about their food,” she said.

But once she arrived in Arizona, she began to miss the food she had grown up with. She couldn’t find a local res-

Farah Khalid owns Curry Corner, an unpretentious but beloved Pakistani restaurant near the Arizona State University campus.

(Anisa Shabir/AFN Contributor)

But Jason Loc created the recipes, which include staples such as orange chicken, kung pao chicken, Szechwan beef, sweet and sour pork, and of course, egg rolls, potstickers, wonton soup and more.

The menu also features food that Loc and her brother grew up with, she said.

“Hong Kong pan noodles, chow fun, Singapore noodles, ma po tofu—It’s a tofu in a Szechuan sauce,” she said. “One of our favorites is our salt and pepper chicken wings.”

What makes their food special, Loc noted, is the sauces. Some, like the one on the BBQ spare ribs, are on the sweeter side, and others, such as the Szechwan sauces, are fiery.

If a customer wants more heat, Loc said, “We can make it really spicy.”

Orange chicken and Hong Kong style pan fried noodles are the best sellers so far, and a couple other favorites are the Triple Delight, with chicken, scallops, shrimp and mixed vegetables stir-fried in garlic sauce, and the General’s Chicken. Anything can be ordered meatless or with steamed instead of fried tofu. “We pretty much try to accommodate as

Ah-Wok-Tukee, which opened Dec. 5 on Chandler Boulevard near South Marketplace Way, sells favorites like egg foo young and more. (Courtesy Ah-Wok-Tukee Asian Cuisine)

much as we can,” Loc said.

Customer John Pinto of Ahwatukee is a self-described “big Asian food fanatic” and said he was “pleasantly surprised at the quality and genuine Asian flavors” at Ah-Wok-Tukee.

He said he’s “delighted that it’s here,

frankly.”

Pinto added, “The soups are great; the General’s Chicken is phenomenal,” and commented, “I’m going to frequent the place on the regular.”

Appetizers range from $3.50 to $17.99, and entrees range from $12.99 to $16.99, with hearty lunch specials including egg roll, rice and soup offered for $11.99 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday, except for 3 to 4 p.m. for the staff lunch break.

No liquor is available, but Loc said she might start selling beer and wine in the spring and is looking into allowing BYOB in the interim.

The cute and memorable name, AhWok-Tukee, was thought up by Loc’s friend Jon Eurich. She subtitled it “Asian Cuisine” instead of “Chinese Cuisine” because she plans to add Thai, Vietnamese and other dishes

“We’re going to test out chef’s specials,” Loc said. “Maybe on a Saturday we’ll serve pho.” They’ll gauge the demand before adding anything to the menu permanently, she noted.

Also, Loc said, many people have asked about online ordering, and they plan to

add that soon, along with delivery services. About 85 percent of their business is takeout, but Loc recently hired more staff so people can enjoy table service.

And Loc took care to create a welcoming ambiance for those dining in. “If you look at a lot of Chinese restaurants, there’re red and black,” she said. “I wanted more of a modern look.” She chose blue and black for the interior, with attractive wire basket light fixtures. Two big-screen TVs are usually tuned to sports.

Loc said she loves getting to know people’s names and creating a friendly, family environment. “I wanted a restaurant where I could see my regulars everyday and interact and get to know people,” she stated. 

If You Go...

What: Ah-Wok-Tukee Asian Cuisine, serving Cantonese classics and other Asian cuisines Where: 1420 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite B-103, Ahwatukee.

Hours: Hours: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 4 p.m.–8 p.m. Mon–Sat Contact: 480-687-5845; ah-woktukee.com

taurant that served Pakistani cuisine, and her brother, Syed Ahsan Bukhari, who also had moved to the U.S., would remind her that “our food is so good; it has so much aroma; it has so much taste in it, and nobody knows about it.”

“The idea came into our mind, and we thought that we should make an effort to bring our food to Arizona.”

So, the two decided to open a fullfledged Pakistani restaurant.

In 1998, they opened the Copper Kettle Express on East Lemon Street and, by 2002, Khalid was running the restaurant on her own.

For 10 years, business was good. Then her landlord filed for bankruptcy and Khalid was told she had to be out in two weeks.

it was a shock, she said, but she was determined to find a new place, and she wanted it to be close to ASU. “I wanted to be in the Tempe area,” she said, “ASU students have been coming to my restaurant; it’s a feeling of home.”

What she found was a former “hookah place” on Apache Boulevard, not

far from her first restaurant. Within two months, she had renovated the space and opened a new restaurant with a new name – Curry Corner.

She worried about whether she had made a good choice. “I thought … maybe people will come back or maybe people won’t come,” she said. “But when people saw my face and tasted the same food, they said, ‘Oh my God, you are the same people.’”

In 2013, Khalid expanded the dining area from 20 seats to 60 and installed new gold-tinged lighting. She had the walls painted a vivid shade of orange.

In an episode of “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” in 2013, Fieri, the celebrity chef, featured Khalid making Goat Karahi (Karahi is an Urdu word for a wok and hence the name of the meat cooked in it).

She also made Tandoori Chicken Tikka (tandoori is a clay cylindrical oven and tikka are marinated pieces of meat), and naan bread.

Fieri found out about Curry Corner from an article in the Phoenix New Times. He was interested in knowing more, so he decided to pay a visit and bring a signed poster with him.

“It was a surprise for us, and we were lucky that he visited,” Khalid said.

Everything about Curry Corner is reminiscent of Pakistan. Diners listen to Bollywood/Lollywood music while they eat, with lyrics in Hindi or Urdu. Photos lining the walls include one of former prime minister and Pakistani Cricket team captain Imran Khan holding a 1992 cricket World Cup trophy.

When she’s not busy in the kitchen, Khalid makes her way around the dining room, greeting guests. If you’re from Pakistan, you might end up in a conversation about what it’s like to be far from home and what you hope to accomplish in this new country.

“America is a land of opportunities. If you work hard and stay dedicated, you can achieve anything,” she said.

And if you’re lucky, she’ll tell the staff to bring you a complimentary dish of Kheer, a traditional Indian Subcontinental sweet dish made of milk and rice.

One of the first dishes Farah cooked for her customers was Nihari, a slowcooked stew from the subcontinent, rich in gravy. That was followed by biryani and chicken tikka.

In 2006, the menu and the staff grew when Khalid hired Gul e Rana as the cook.

“Pakistani women are very hardworking,” Khalid said as she introduced Rana, who was scuttling to get orders ready in the kitchen.

Rana initially arrived in the U.S. with her husband on a visitor’s visa. But after her husband’s death in 2002, she decided to start over in Arizona, where her sister was living.

When Khalid first hired her, she said she didn’t even know how to cook. “Farah baji (sister) helped me learn. So I am working as a chef now.”

“I make sure students who have left their homes don’t feel that they are away from their parents,” Rana said, “So I ask them about food and offer it to them since I have a son myself and I know how it feels.”

Khalid wants to open a new branch of Curry Corner in Gilbert or Scottsdale in the future. She said the most important lesson she has learned during her years in the restaurant business is a simple one:

“If your dil (heart) and niyat (intentions) are pure and you dedicate yourself, then you will be successful.” 

CURRY

Trust is a fragile thing when it comes to money

BY HAROLD WONG Guest Writer

Every year, the Gallup Poll asks Americans their opinions of the ethical standards of various professions.

The results of the 2021 Gallup Poll, reported in a Moneywise article by Sarah Cunnane, found 9% believe car salespeople are very honest and ethical; only 12% members of Congress, 13% of insurance salespeople as well as advertising professionals, 14% of stockbrokers, 20% of the nation’s governors and business executives, 22% of all lawyers and 24% of labor leaders.

In contrast, the 10 professions rated most honest and ethical are: nurses (85%), engineers (66%), physicans (65%), pharmacists (64%), dentists (61%) police foficers (51%), college teachers (49%), psychiatrists (43%), chiropractors (41%) and clergy (40%),

The 2008 Gallup Poll said 14% rated stockbrokers for high or high honesty

and ethical standards and this was the fifth worst-rated profession. Only 25% rated real estate agents as highly ethical and this was the ninth worst professions.

In contrast, 42% rated accountants as highly ethical and this was the 6th best profession. The third best profession was high school teachers and 60% ranked this profession as highly ethical. Nurses remained #1 rating and 85% rated the profession as highly honest and ethical. This data should create a dilemma for the public.

Would you trust your life savings to the advice of a high school or college teacher who has read books his whole life, but has never started a business or worked in the real world? In contrast, stockbrokers and insurance agents have worked in the private sector, but aren’t rated as very honest or ethical.

Nursing is consistently rated as the most honest profession, but would you let a nurse advise you on your investments, real estate, taxes, and other financial issues?

In reality, only 35% of Americans use a

financial advisor, according to the Northwestern Mutual 2022 Planning & Progress Study. Most people tend to either ignore their financial future or decide to be their own financial advisor. The analogy in the legal field is: “He who acts as his own attorney has a fool for a client.”

If most Americans don’t use a financial advisor and instead rely on themselves, please look at a study by Ramsey Solutions titled “The National Study of Millionaires.”

The top five careers for millionaires are: engineer, accountant, teacher, manager, and attorney. Three out of four said that regular, consistent investing over a long period of time leads to success.

They spend less than $200 a month at restaurants and 93% of millionaires use coupons all or some of the time when shopping. Nearly three-quarters have never carried a credit card balance in their lives.

In other words, most millionaires have great financial discipline and are logical. They are able to avoid impulse purchases and instead save steadily for decades

until they become millionaires.

Most Americans don’t trust stockbrokers or insurance agents and rely on themselves instead of a financial advisor. It’s true that no one cares about your money as much as you do.

For lots of useful financial information, go to drharoldwong.com and then click on the “Published Works” link. You will find all of my Times Media Group articles as well as relevant articles by others.

Attend my free live seminar and supper Jan. 26 at Hyatt Place, 3535 W. Chandler Blvd. Chandler. The seminar is 6-7:30 p.m., followed by a free catered supper. The topic is “Beat Inflation by Saving Taxes and Increasing Income!”

To RSVP for the seminar or schedule a free consultation, contact Dr. Harold Wong at 480-706-0177 or harold_wong@hotmail.com. His website is drharoldwong.com. He earned his Ph.D. in economics at University of California/Berkeley and has appeared on over 400 TV/radio programs. 

Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook

Thunder basketball learning as they go under new coach

BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor

There’s no denying the Desert Vista boys’ basketball program has dealt with bouts of adversity over the course of the last year.

The school moved on from former coach Jordan Ballard after two seasons. The decision came after he was placed on administrative leave during the 2022 season. Obie Tann, who previously built Sabino’s basketball program in Tucson, was then brought in to lead the team.

After a short stint that lasted most of the summer, the school decided Tann wasn’t the best fit for the program.

Enter Walter Bonner.

The former University of Hawaii player and coach was tabbed in September to be the Thunder’s third coach in two years. It’s an opportunity he is thankful for but knew it would come with some struggles. Especially with a slew of players transferring out of the program before his arrival.

“I don’t know what I missed,” Bonner said. “Some kids left before I got here. But I’m happy with the kids that I have. They are trying to learn and grow, and they compete. When they get out there, even the games we lose they compete.”

Bonner’s experience at all levels of the game stood out among other candidates. He played high school ball in Ohio, where he is from. He went on to star for Hawaii, where he helped lead the Rainbow Warriors to the WAC championship in 1994 and the NCAA Tournament. He went on to play professionally overseas in Finland and China after college.

Once his playing career was over, he began coaching. He led high school programs in California, Ohio and Arizona. He returned to his alma mater to be an assistant and coached at Holy Names University in Oakland.

Now, he’s sharing his experience with a Desert Vista team that is young and inexperienced at the varsity level. But even in his short time with the program, he’s

already seeing improvement.

“We’re learning,” Bonner said. “We’ll

win some quarters we just have to learn how to finish and win some games. I

see them growing leaps and bounds. But it won’t be overnight. We’ve been battle tested.”

Desert Vista’s sudden coaching change brought turmoil to the program. Several returning players from last year transferred out, most of which to prep schools. Those that remained had no varsity experience. Bonner knew he had his work cut out for him with a group of relatively inexperienced players. But he also enjoyed being able to teach them in a way that would be organic to them.

Despite being 3-12 to start the year, two of those wins came on back-to-back days in the McClintock Holiday Shootout. The Thunder, a team with just two seniors, showed maturity and poise in their wins over Arcadia and Dobson.

They moved the ball around, locked down on defense and played arguably their best brand of basketball all season.

Freshman Nico Velez has helped lead the way so far this year. He enjoys having the spotlight on him, and he’s created good chemistry with teammates — especially his older brother, Elijah — that is now beginning to pay off on the court.

“We’ve started to find our roles a little bit better,” Veles said. “Everybody’s understanding their role more. We’re moving the ball more and understanding what it takes to be successful.”

Velez knew when he enrolled at Desert Vista to follow Elijah and his other older brother, Isaiah, that he would have a chance to make an impact right away.

A true point guard, he led the team in the starting lineup throughout the summer. The difference now is a lack of experience around him.

Elijah played junior varsity last year as a sophomore. So did all the other starters and reserves on the bench. They’ve had to adjust to the speed of the game at the highest level, and it came against solid programs, some of which will be in contention for a championship later this season.

Desert Vista is led by several young players without varsity experience, including freshman point guard Nico Velez. He’s become a leader already for the program and facilitator on offense. (Dave Minton/AFN Staff)

New Desert Vista head boys’ basketball coach Walter Bonner knew taking over the Thunder would be a challenge with how young the team is. But he’s seen improvement already and reminds them that with every win or loss, they are able to learn. (Dave Minton/AFN Staff)

But Bonner has helped bridge the gap for the players. The game has slowed, and they have become more confident.

“He tries to let us play more. He doesn’t run a lot of sets,” Velez said. “He wants us to just play our game. But when we have to run sets, he knows what to run that will get us open and get our shots. It’s been great.”

Desert Vista had a short break after the Holiday Shootout. It returned to the court Tuesday against Maricopa.

The Thunder know they still have a lot of games ahead that could turn

the season around and make a push toward the 6A playoffs, especially with the Open Division likely to take several of the top teams and place it in the tougher tournament.

For now, Bonner is keen on helping his team stay focused on one game at a time. He knows they will continue to improve, win or lose. That’s all he can ask for as a new coach.

“It’s been challenging but at the same time I tell my kids to not make excuses, so I don’t make excuses,” Bonner said. “Every challenge is a learning opportunity. Even if we don’t win, we have an opportunity to learn, an opportunity to grow.” 

Gem and mineral show coming to Mesa

BY MARC FLEISCHER GetOut Contributor

Some people know Evan A. Jones as a member of Xtra Ticket, a Grateful Dead tribute band that started in 1994.

The Cave Creek resident takes on Bob Weir’s role, playing guitar and vocals.

But Jones is well established as a serious gem and mineral collector and dealer and he’s taking part in the 50th annual Flagg Gem & Mineral Show next weekend, Jan 6-8, in Mesa Community College’s southwest parking lot at Southern Avenue and Dobson Road.

The Flagg Gem & Mineral Show is very special to Jones, the son of Bob Jones, editor of Rock and Gem Magazine and author of “The Frugal Collector.”

The younger Jones has been surrounded by minerals his entire life.

“My father gave me a fossil set at age 7 along with fossil and geology books, which really started things for me. Prior

to that, minerals were just the cool things in my dad’s cabinets and collection drawers. No other family members were really interested at the time,” Jones said.

By age 12, he was attending shows with his father. Later, as an adult, he began participating as a dealer.

“Back in the old days it was all about visiting rock shops and attending shows,” he said. “What’s great about the Flagg show is that many of the dealers have been participating for decades, and they’ve passed their love of collecting down to their kids and grandkids.”

It’s the largest and longest-running gem and mineral show in the metro Phoenix area and attracts thousands of people every year, ranging from serious

Evan A. Jones will showcase his collection at the Flagg Gem & Mineral Show Jan. 6-8. (Courtesy of Evan A. Jones)

‘Disney on Ice’ takes on a road trip expedition

BY SUMMER AGUIRRE GetOut Staff

To ring in the new year strong, “Disney on Ice” is making a pitstop in the Valley to take families on a magical getaway visiting some of their most beloved characters.

Produced by Feld Entertainment, “Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures” embarks on an immersive excursion of exciting twists and turns through some of Disney’s most popular and classic tales. The tour will be in Phoenix for seven shows from Jan.12-15 at the Footprint Center.

“This show, in particular, come in with an open mind — it truly is an amazing show. We’ve all worked so hard and we’re so excited to share this show with you and everyone that comes into the

magic,” said Kiera Clifford, 22, a first-year skater in the cast. “It’s a big road trip adventure for everybody.”

During an enchanting and athletic performance, spectators will go on a sa-

fari to see Simba, Timon and Pumbaa in the Pride Lands and help Woody and Bo Peep search for their new friend, Forky, at a wacky carnival.

“We’ll start with Mary Poppins going

through the town. We’ll see some Incredibles, we might run into Moana and her tribe or we might even run into Olaf with his little ‘In Summer’ song,” said Clifford.

In comparison to other “Disney on Ice” shows, the skater said that “Road Trip Adventures” is by far the most interactive with audience members.

“There’s not just one thing you’re looking at, there are a bunch of things,” she said. “One of my favorite numbers is Aladdin’s (Prince) Ali Parade. You have a lot of things in the air, you have things on the ground, there’s a lot of props –you won’t be unsatisfied with our show.”

To further immerse the audience in the performance, Clifford hinted at a surprise launch into the crowd during

‘Disney On Ice’ offers a colorfully costumed cast whose signing, storytelling and ice skating abilities will delight young and old alike. (Courtesy Disney on Ice)

Aretha’s story told through theatrical concert

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI GetOut Editor

When Christina Sajous was a child in the Bronx, she and her mom listened to Aretha Franklin as they cleaned their apartment on Sunday mornings.

Since that time, Franklin’s music has felt like home.

So, as an adult, she didn’t have to think twice when she was asked to direct “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.,” a tribute celebrating the Motown star that comes to the Orpheum in Phoenix Jan. 13-15.

“I love music. I love theater. I love cinema. I’m just a big fan of the arts,” she says.

“When I was approached to do this project, I thought, ‘Oh my God, this is amazing.’”

The new production is adapted from McGee Entertainment’s Australian touring show “RESPECT: The Aretha Franklin Story” starring Angie Narayan (“Australian Idol”).

“It started in Australia,” Sajous says. “They have a show that’s running all through Australia. It was brought to us

by Right Angle Entertainment to do a variation of the show one of our producers saw.”

Sajous was handed the script and asked to make the show uniquely her own and for American audiences. It had to celebrate the star’s life, from singing in her father’s church in Detroit to touring the country with Martin Luther King Jr. to becoming a legend.

ing and selling minerals, and attending gem and mineral shows.

“It wasn’t an easy task,” she adds. “The original script was beautiful, but it had to feel like it was in an authentic space. We did a lot of reworking of the script.”

“R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” showcases songs like “Natural Woman,” “Think,” “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me,” “Chain of Fools” and “Respect,” of course.

“It’s told from the point of view of four artists on stage — three backup

singers and one lead singer,” she says. “We call them ‘hosts.’ They’re all storytellers and representative of who Aretha is. It celebrates the legend and the legend inside of you.

“You realize when you hear the story of Aretha, there’s no difference between her and you. She’s still a human being who had to endure so much.”

Rewriting the script came with a certain responsibility, Sajous says.

“I felt like I had a responsibility not just to uphold the integrity of what she represented in music, but what it means to my female, and a woman of color and an artist. I’m not a mother, but I experienced my mother being a mother. All these things were a part of the ingredients to build a show like this.” 

If you go

What: “R.E.S.P.E.C.T. When: Various Jan. 13-15.

Where: Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix

Cost: Tickets start at $45.24 Info: etix.com, respectontour.com

collectors to families with young children. Admission and parking are free.

This year’s golden anniversary event will feature more than 100 dealers who will showcase and sell a variety of minerals, fossils, gems, beads, jewelry and lapidary materials. In addition, several organizations will exhibit educational information and the event features fun children’s activities, including gold panning.

A native of Arizona, Jones found it natural to specialize and collect minerals from the Grand Canyon State. He was on the advisory board in the early planning stages of the new Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

Over the years, he has split his time between performing with his band, buy-

“I chose to join a Grateful Dead tribute band because it’s my favorite genre of music,” Jones said.

“They basically invented what’s now known as ‘jam band’ music. Xtra Ticket has played for deadheads all over the country.”

He said he knows many mineral collectors and dealers who started collecting or vending while on Grateful Dead or other jam band tours.

In addition to going to shows, Jones has explored more than 100 underground mines throughout the state. “Most were devoid of specimens, but the thrill of exploring underground is a strong pull,” he said.

He estimates that his current collection has more than 1,000 specimens, all from Arizona.

“It’s hard to pick a favorite. I really love wulfenite, the official state mineral of Arizona,” he said.

“It has tabular crystals with a bright orange-red to yellow-orange color. I also love azurite, which is characterized by its soft, deep blue color. Cuprite is also a mineral I enjoy collecting. A soft, heavy, red oxide mineral, it’s also called red copper ore and it can form beautiful crystals.”

Jones credits the internet with reviving interest in collecting gems and minerals. “I’m seeing a lot of new collectors, and many are very knowledgeable and sophisticated,” he said.

But attending a show provides a chance to meet dealers and examine specimens in person.

“If you’re just starting your collection, go to as many shows as you can,” Jones said. “Look at mineral dealers’ inven-

tory, examine their specimens and read the labels. That’s the quickest way to learn minerals and the hobby.”

Jones said one reason he likes the Flagg Gem & Mineral Show is because there’s really something for everyone.

“I like the friendly, hometown attitude and easygoing nature of the show,” he said. “There’s good camaraderie with other dealers, there are plenty of great finds for seasoned and new collectors, it’s a ton of fun for kids, and there are amazing deals and fair prices.”

The Flagg Mineral Foundation is a memorial to A.L. Flagg who was a renowned and inspirational founder of the Mineralogical Society of Arizona. The Flagg Mineral Foundation is a non-profit scientific and educational organization.

Information: flaggmineralfoundation.org 

Angie Narayan, center, of “Australian Idol,” has the starring role in “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” Special to GetOut)

New Chandler eatery focuses on healthy food

BY SRIANTHI PERERA GetOut Contributor

Flower Child, which opened its first outlet in Chandler recently, has a catchy slogan: “Healthy Food for a Happy World.”

The restaurant seeks to fulfill its premise by making food from scratch, sourcing ingredients close to each eatery’s location whenever possible and serving healthy food for a variety of lifestyles.

“Whether you’re (eating) gluten-free, vegan, following a strict dietary regimen or just hungry, Flower Child offers a wide range of options for you to enjoy,” said Mark Yost, general manager.

The fast-casual menu offers unusual combinations of ingredients.

Examples are salads, such as Ginger Miso Crunch (carrot zoodles, zucchini, red pepper, Asian cabbage, mint, cashew and sesame seeds) and bowls, such as the Forbidden Rice (including black pearl, red japonica, snap pea, Bok choy and red chili hoisin.

Entrees include Yuzu Brussels Sprouts (charred onion, savoy cabbage and golden miso) and wraps including the Thai Dye (spicy tofu, Thai basil, avocado, carrot, daikon radish, cilantro and snap pea.

The Bolognese Bowl consists of a base of flavorful zucchini strands nestling

against the organic pureed tomato flavored with wild mushrooms, red lentil, basil, and parmesan.

A dollop of soft burrata, an Italian cow milk cheese made from mozzarella and cream, sits side-by-side with thin cuts of chicken.

Drinks include the seasonal lemonade and kombucha on tap along with a selection of loose-leaf hot teas, wines, sangria and local craft beers.

The simple dessert choices are topped by a 420-calorie, sharable chocolate pud-

ding made of sweetened cocoa and milk.

Part of the Fox Restaurant Concepts, Flower Child’s first Chandler location is at The Shoppes at Casa Paloma, in the southwest corner of Ray Road and 56th Street. It is the sixth Arizona outlet, and joins others in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Gilbert.

The restaurant launched 2014 in the Arcadia area of Phoenix. Over the years, the company has opened restaurants in many other states, including California, Texas and Georgia.

The Chandler location offers a large,

airy, and high-ceilinged dining room and a wrap-around patio for pleasant, on-site dining. Multi-generational families may find the setting appropriate, while two friends may also have a quieter meal.

The décor includes a cluster of lamps shaded by wicker soften the rafters and metals of the industrial design ceiling. Cane chairs are woven tightly with a black and white basket weave and a floral mural by local artist Andy Brown takes prominence on the far wall.

“We want all of our locations to be designed in a way so when you walk in, you know you’re at Flower Child,” Yost said.

“However, as we grow across the country, we have identified ways of introducing paintings or artwork in a way that continues to embody our Flower Child brand, but also helps us to fit in with our new neighborhoods and communities.”

Many restaurants serve healthy food, so how does Flower Child stand out in the community?

Yost pointed to the focus on catering to different palettes and lifestyles, as well as the quality of ingredients.

“We don’t only focus on one type of healthy food. For example, we don’t solely offer gluten-free options, we aren’t an exclusively vegan restaurant, we of-

Jazz is Dead resurrecting the Dead with a twist

BY LUKE HERTEL GetOut Contributor

Jazz is Dead bassist Alphonso Johnson says his band’s shows, which pay tribute to The Grateful Dead, are filled with improvisational surprises. Fans can see for themselves when Jazz is Dead plays the Celebrity Theatre Jan. 17 to celebrate its 25th anniversary and the 50-year-old The Grateful Dead album “Wake of the Flood.”

Jazz is Dead is an instrumental Grateful Dead cover band that interprets the legendary act’s tracks with jazz influences. Johnson says Jazz is Dead’s shows are very fluid and typically change from night to night.

“We have always prided ourselves on not being just another Grateful Dead

cover band,” said the jazz fusion veteran who played in Weather Report. “We like to change things up and mix ‘em up.”

Johnson said Jazz is Dead finds a middle ground between an original act and a cover band.

“We’re playing their songs, obviously, and hopefully, you can hear the melodies in the songs,” Johnson explained.

“We want to make sure we give it a slightly different twist so the audience can go, ‘Oh yeah, I know that’s ‘Stella Blue’ but he’s not playing it on guitar,’ or ‘He’s not playing it how I normally hear it.’”

Jazz is Dead has the stamp of approval from The Grateful Dead co-founder Bob Weir, who invited the musicians to tour with Bobby and the Midnites for a year.

Jazz is Dead, an instrumental Grateful Dead cover band, will be playing in Phoenix Jan. 17. (Special to GetOut)

Flower Child offers a cheerful décor along with flavorful food. (Srianthi Perera/Contributor)

With JAN D’ATRI

GetOut Columnist

Leftover Eggnog Fudge

It’s New Years Day and the Christmas cookies have been gobbled up. The feasts with family have been enjoyed. Today we bid adieu to 2022! Except.....there’s a little bit of leftover eggnog in the frig and gee, it would sure be a shame to not use it up! So, here are two great Eggnog Fudge recipes for one last holiday hurrah. The first is a simple no-brainer recipe for Eggnog Fudge. The second version uses fewer ingredients but a little trickier because mixing it to the right thickness needs to be pretty precise. My wish is for sweet success to all of you in 2023!

Eggnog Fudge Version #1 Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

• 3/4 cup eggnog

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• 8 oz. white chocolate, chopped in small

Directions:

Cut a piece of parchment paper to line a shallow 9 x 13 inch baking sheet. Let paper hang over the sides about 3 inches for easy fudge removal. (An 8-inch baking pan can also be used for larger squares of fudge)

In a heavy 3-quart saucepan, melt butter, sugar, eggnog and salt and cook over medium heat until well combined. Bring mixture to a boil and cook until candy thermometer reads 234degrees (soft ball stage). Stir occasionally so mixture doesn’t scorch, especially at the end of the cooking pro-

pieces

• One 7-ounce jar marshmallow creme

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• Ground nutmeg and decorative sugar for sprinkling, optional

• Candy thermometer (important)

cess. When mixture reaches 234, stir in white chocolate until dissolved. Stir in marshmallow creme and vanilla and stir well to combine. Pour into prepared pan. If desired, lightly and very sparingly sprinkle ground nutmeg and decorative sugar over fudge. Let stand at room temperature until fudge has cooled. Cover and refrigerate until firm (at least 2 hours or overnight).

Cut into desired squares. Eggnog fudge can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen in a wellsealed container for 2-3 weeks.

Eggnog Fudge Version #2 (This version is a little trickier because if you beat the mixture too far beyond a thick consistency, it will harden and crystallize. But the efforts are well-worth it!)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sugar

• 3/4 cup eggnog

Directions:

Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, eggnog, corn syrup and butter. Cook over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a boil. Insert cookie thermometer and cook until mixture reaches 234 degrees or soft ball stage.

• 2 tablespoons corn syrup

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Pour mixture into a stainless or glass mixing bowl. Cool to lukewarm, or 110 degrees.

Add vanilla and beat with electric mixer just until thickened. (If you mix too much beyond this stage, the mixture will seize up and crystallize.)

Spread fudge into prepared pan. Refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares and store in refrigerator. Makes about 1 pound of fudge 

the “Toy Story” segment and noted cast members who escort families onto bus stops to watch the show close to the ice.

“I feel like our cast members blend very well, the show pulls together,” she said. Seeing “Disney on Ice” is a memorable experience that Clifford thinks every kid needs.

“I grew up a Disney kid, and I’m so grateful that my mom brought me to the shows and to Disney World, just because it’s something special that you’ll look back on and remember for a long time,” she said. “And seeing your favorite characters come off the screen onto the ice is something that was super exciting to me, so I’m sure for every child out there, it would be exciting for them, too.”

The children’s enthusiasm is something that the skater believes is exciting for parents to witness. She recalls seeing videos online under the hashtag “#disneyonice,” taken by parents capturing their young ones’ happiness as their dreams come to life.

Likewise, Clifford said interacting with the children and bringing their heroes to life on the ice is the most fulfilling

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES AND SUDOKU

from Page 35

part of her role as a performer.

“I graduated with a teaching degree in music,” said Clifford, who attended Penn State University. “I’m missing that a little bit right now, so seeing the kids interact and their faces light up is probably the most appealing part of the show for me.”

“Disney on Ice” was launched in 1981. Its traveling team consists of 90 to 100 people, including Clifford and nearly 50 other performers, several coordinators, a sales team and crewmembers.

“As performers, we always go out and try to put on our best show for everybody,” she adds. “Whether it’s waving at kids as a princess, getting picked to go into the magic-mobile with The Incredibles on the ice, or it could be tossing balls into the audience, or even going out into the audience as a cast.” 

If you go

What: “Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures” When: Various times Jan. 12-15. Where: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix Cost: Tickets start at $20 Info: Disneyonice.Com, Ticketmaster.Com

fer a menu for everyone to enjoy,” he said. “Whether you’re eating our Chicken Enchiladas or a Chopped Vegetable Salad, the ingredients we source will always be of the best quality available.”

The restaurant is also known for its carefully chosen employees. Brand founder Sam Fox, according to the company, is “passionate about hospitality.”

“In addition to the food we serve, we have cultivated one of the friendliest, most hospitable staffs I have ever been a part of,” Yost said. “We have a diverse team with a large array of skillsets, but

JAZZ

Johnson doesn’t necessarily think “jazz is dead.” But every form of art lessens in popularity, like jazz has with younger people.

“Art always evolves,” Johnson said. “It never stays the same. We had big band music in the ’30s and ’40s. We had the small jazz groups to evolve out of that. Music and art never stay the same. It’s fortunate that that happens because it allows for younger artists to come up

the common denominator among everyone on our team is hospitality.”

Exclusive to the Arizona Flower Child locations, Phoenix Sun fans can eat like famed power forward Cam Johnson by ordering his signature, “Cam’s Power Meal.” The bowl consists of salmon, gluten-free mac and cheese, and roasted broccoli.

For each meal purchased, guests are entered into a monthly drawing for a chance to win a number 23 jersey autographed by Johnson. This special will be featured throughout the basketball season.

Flower Child is at 7131 W. Ray Road #10, Chandler. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 602-834-0070 or iamaflowerchild.com 

with their own interpretation that expresses what’s happening in their own world. So, I think it’s a good thing.” 

If you go

What: Jazz is Dead

When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 17 Where: Where: Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix Cost: Tickets start at $35 Info: 602-267-1600, celebritytheatre.com

Now Hiring in Mesa!