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Study looks at arts enrollment in local schools
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
Astatewide study released last week shows a wide disparity in enrollment in arts classes among students in the two school districts serving Ahwatukee.
Data compiled by Quadrant Research with the state Department of Education and three arts-related organizations showed that in 2020-21, 80% of Kyrene students were enrolled in arts instruction – far above the statewide average of 60% – while Tempe Union arts enrollment hovered around 40%.
Enrollment in arts classes in both districts fell in 2020-21 as the pandemic disrupted normal classroom learning, according to the data.
The study was commissioned by the Arts Education Data Project, a consortium of the Education Department, the State Education Agency Directors of Arts Education, the Arizona Commission on the Arts and Arizona Citizens for the Arts.
In Kyrene, enrollment in music and visual arts was high, with more than 8,500 students enrolled in each type of class while enrollment in music classes by Tempe Union stu-
dents far exceeded that of any other arts education program.
The popularity of music and arts classes
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
Walk her through her diverse array of past lives and Bridget Bellavigna interjects, “I’ve had an interesting life, trust me.”
Actually, trust has nothing to do with it: it’s all there in black and white on the 40-year Ahwatukee resident’s resume, which so impressed the Maricopa County Board of Super-
visors two weeks ago that they unanimously appointed her to the vacant constable position for the Kyrene Justice Court.
As only the seventh woman among the county’s 26 constables, Bellavigna will be responsible for hand-delivering subpoenas, writs, protection from abuse orders and eviction notices. She also will be executing court-ordered seizures of property to satisfy civil court judgments and when necessary, preside over tenant evictions.
Bellavigna is filling the constable position at a time when eviction orders issued by Maricopa County justice courts are steadily rising after state and federal governments halted them because of the pandemic.
Now that those suspensions are no longer in effect – and rents are soaring across the Valley – landlords are turning in droves to justice courts to free apartments, homes and store
in Kyrene mirrors the statewide data, which
In the foreground, Estrella Elementary kindergarteners Ciara Haro, left, and Blake Stojak, last Friday were busy coloring a worksheet during art class. (David Minton/AFN Staff Photographer)
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Judge makes special master official for Lakes Course case
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
Amajor step was taken last week toward the September opening of a fully restored Ahwatukee Lakes Golf Course after the judge in the case officially appointed golf course expert Mark J. Woodward as special master overseeing the project and course owner ALCR formally agreed to pay him.
In return, ALCR will only have to post a tenth of the $500,000 penalty that came with Superior Court Judge Sara Agne’s finding that the company had failed to meet a deadline set in November 2020 by another judge.
Superior Court Judge Theodore Campagnolo in November 2020 laid out a series of three steps that ALCR and company principal Wilson Gee must follow to comply with a court order that the beleaguered 18-hole executive course be fully restored.
In that order, he said ALCR had to complete restoration plans by May 2021, start reconstruction by September 2021 and open all 18 holes by this September.
Although half the course opened in January, Agne had determined that ALCR’s failure to obtain a city permit for some of the work constituted contempt of court because it violated the first deadline. Gee had testified that city officials told him a permit was not necessary and claimed they ignored his company’s request to put that in writing.
Regardless, Gee and ALCR are not fighting Agne’s determination – something that would have been difficult anyway because contempt-of-court rulings are not entitled to an automatic appeal.
And they agreed to post the full $500,000 penalty if they fail to pay Woodward’s fee on time or violated the terms of Campagnolo’s order.
Woodward, 69, comes from a family of golf course developers and has been in the business of building, designing, restoring and maintaining courses since he was a teenager. He was admitted to the Arizona Golf Hall of Fame in 2020 for his work in this state, but he also headed the 19,000-member Golf Course Superintendents Association for several years as well.
An avid golfer himself, he has played three of Ahwatukee’s four golf courses – the only exception being the Lakes.
In court papers filed last week, Woodward set his fee as $2,000 a month between March and May, then $3,000 from June through October. If any work goes beyond the scope of his duties, he will be paid an additional $250 an hour.
That extra work would include any evening meetings
found 40% of all students were taking music and/or visual arts classes. Participation in theater, dance and classes such as digital media, film and TV and graphic design was far below that level.
The study also measured access to arts education and found that statewide, 89% of the state’s 1.1 million public and charter school students had access to one or more arts disciplines in schools. However, 20% of charter students had no access to any arts courses – nearly three times the 7.9% of public-school students who had no arts classes to enroll in.
The study was released in advance of the National Arts Action Summit March 28-30, called by the nonprofit Americans for the Arts to discuss “developing strong public policies and appropriating increased public funding for the arts and culture.”
Leaders of the Arizona project cited a 2016 study by Americans for the Arts, the largest arts advocacy organization in the nation, that found students with four years of high school arts and music classes had higher SAT scores than students with a half year or less of such classes.
Tempe Union spokeswoman Megan Sterling noted that all students are required to have two credits of fine/practical arts or vocation education to graduate and that the district believes, “Arts are a critical component of a well-rounded educational experience.”
“We have a wide variety of arts education opportunities for our students,” Sterling said, noting the strong arts programs at both Desert Vista and Mountain Pointe high schools.
“Students at both schools have the opportunity to experience performing and both schools have achieved numerous accolades and accomplishments in these areas,” she said.
Both the Pride Arts Center at Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista’s Performing Arts Academy offer students a wide selection of courses in visual and performing arts – ranging from band and drama to dance and speech/debate.
The study showed that visual arts is the big draw at Mountain Pointe, where 14% of all students are enrolled in some kind of related class. Enrollment in visual arts there was highest among seniors. The next popular discipline was music with 11%, followed by theater, 6%; and
dance, 8%.
The data showed a markedly different enrollment trend at Desert Vista where last year 16% of students were enrolled in music, followed by 15% in theater. Visual arts was the third most popular discipline with 10% of students, followed by 6% in dance classes.
Kyrene spokeswoman Stephanie Ingersoll noted, "All Kyrene schools offer arts education opportunities” – including the district’s digital academy.
“Students in kindergarten through 5th grade are required to have art instruction,” Ingersoll said. “At the middle school level, art education classes (choir, band, theater, art, multimedia) are electives and students pick two electives per semester. However, students may choose non-art electives.”
Like Sterling, Ingersoll also noted that Kyrene “is home to many award-winning performing arts groups” and pointed to the district’s annual arts showcase and the Kyrene de la Paloma Arts Integration Academy, which incorporates art concepts into its core curriculum.
Among Kyrene’s middle schools in Ahwatukee, visual arts was the overwhelmingly most popular arts discipline, drawing enrollment at 51% of students, followed by 39% in music and 23% in theater.
The study showed only 29% of Altadeña students were enrolled in any arts discipline class, with visual arts drawing 26% and music 3%
Centennial students’ enrollment in arts classes in 2020-21 showed 20% in music, 16% in visual arts and 12% in theater. At Kyrene Aprende, visual arts was the most popular arts discipline with 35% of students enrolled, followed by theater with 20% and music at 19%. Kyrene Middle School students tended to favor music, with 54% of students enrolled, compared to 39% in visual arts and 19% in theater.
Statewide, the study found that music classes drew the highest enrollment percentage at 43%, followed by 39% in visual arts. After that, enrollment falls considerably, with only 4% of students involved in theater, 2% in dance and 4% in other arts categories. That last category included course in subjects such as TV and film.
To read the report: azarts.gov/azartsed-explorer. ■
This chart shows, on the left below the map, that arts enrollment by Kyrene School District students far surpasses the statewide average, though it dipped in 2020-21, because of the pandemic’s disruptions. In the boxes along the bottom, data show the overwhelmingly popular courses are music and visual arts. (Arizona Arts Education Data Project)
This chart of Tempe Union High School District’s arts education shows enrollment in arts classes is below the state average and trended down once the pandemic begins. Across the district, music is the most popular kind of arts class. (Arizona Arts Education Data Project)
Bill would require schools to post lesson details
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
State senators voted last week to enact specific new requirements for what schools and teachers have to make available to parents.
As approved on a 16-13 party-line margin, SB 1211 requires a listing of all materials and activities for student instruction. This ranges from textbooks and digital materials, to online applications and school assemblies and guest lectures.
Sen. Paul Boyer, R-Glendale, said this will not be a hardship on teachers as they need post only the titles and information within seven days.
Separately, SB 1211 requires school districts and charter schools to provide information on their websites the procedures for parents to access, in advance, to review the current learning materials and activities being used. The materials would have to be organized, at a minimum, by subject, grade and teacher as well as be displayed in electronic formats that can be searched or sorted.
All the Democrats on the Senate floor voted against the measure.
"I am 100% in favor of transparency and parental involvement," said Sen. Christine Marsh, D-Phoenix.
"I know first-hand that open communication between parents and teachers allows for better instruction and adaptability for the students," she said. "But there are other ways to facilitate that without this particular bill which will have ... unintended consequences on both students and on teachers."
Marsh said the additional requirements will create more work for teachers that ultimately will result in them being able to spend less time with their students.
"They’re going to be busy loading thousands of points of data online every week or two," she said.
But Boyer called SB 1211 "one of the most important, if not the most important bill of the session."
"It’s painless," said Boyer, who indicated he is returning to full-time teaching next year.
"As teachers, we’re always submitting
lesson plans every single week," Boyer said. "It’s so simple teachers can just upload to a Google Doc or a Word Doc, just the titles of whatever it is."
"Some of you know that parents, not all of them, but some of them do distrust their school districts," Boyer said. "This bill helps to alleviate that."
He also said it actually will help teachers, enabling them to see what others in the field are doing. "Maybe, just maybe, I can apply some of the same kind of teaching materials in my classroom," Boyer said.
But Sen. Tyler Pace, R-Mesa, questioned whether what’s in the bill is workable, particularly at the elementary school level.
For example, he said his son is in the third grade where they give him his choice of what to read from perhaps a thousand books.
"Which one of those thousand books is required reading?" Pace asked, and has to be listed online. Still, Pace voted for the measure, saying he hopes there are changes when the measure is considered
by the House where it now goes.
Sen. Michelle Ugenti-Rita, R-Scottsdale, also voted with all the Republicans to approve the measure. But she questioned whether this was little more than window dressing –"to look like we are doing something" – to deal with a deeper problem.
"Putting up loads and loads and loads of information isn’t really going to solve the problem that we have in K-12," Ugenti-Rita said.
"We have a leadership problem in K-12," she continued. "We have a problem with teacher unions. We have a problem with board members who sit on school boards who are elected in non-partisan races and nobody knows who they are."
In fact, Ugenti-Rita proposed legislation this session to require board candidates to list their political affiliations, only to have it defeated.
"This will leave parents with the impression that something is done when nothing is done," she complained. Instead, Ugenti-Rita said, SB 1211 will "add a lot of see SCHOOLS page 9
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LAKES from page 3
with any of the 5,400 Ahwatukee Lakes homeowners who might want to hear what’s being done on the course, which was closed in 2013 and has been the subject of a court battle since 2014 between ALCR and homeowners Linda Swain and Eileen Breslin.
During the first phase of his work, Woodward told the court “I will also develop a tentative, draft timeline for all work that needs to be completed prior to seeding the Bermuda grass in June. I will update this draft timeline as we progress through the project and extend it out all the way through the winter overseeding process and opening the golf course.
“I can’t stress enough the importance of following a timeline and staying on task as we only have a limited window of time to complete this work based on the seasonality of planting the Bermuda turf grass at the appropriate time to maximize our success and ensure that we meet the court ordered deadlines of opening on September 1, 2022 and then again planting the winter ryegrass in late September or better yet early October,” he also said in an affidavit.
And ironically, while Gee said he has no plans to have golf carts available for players, he apparently will have to find one for Woodward, who told the Agne “I could be more effective and productive if a golf cart was made available for my use on the days that I visit the site.”
He added that he will submit at least one report a month on ALCR’s progress and visit the course once or twice a week. ■
SCHOOLS from page 6
busy work for teachers."
The measure outlines enforcement procedures, including requiring a response from the school principal to a complaint with 15 days and then, if the parent is not satisfied, gives the governing board another 25 days. It also spells out that parents can pursue legal action, as can the state school superintendent, the auditor general, the attorney general or the county attorney.
Not everything that teachers would
have to post would come afterwards.
The measure spells out that materials on certain subjects actually have to be put on display at least 72 hours before first use. These include issues of discrimination and diversity and bias based on race, ethnicity, sex or gender.
Also covered by this 72-hour rule is "action-oriented civics," defined as assignments or projects that require students to contact elected officials or other outside entities, whether to advocate for a political or social cause or to participate in political or social demonstrations.
Tatum Ranch
fronts from the grip of tenants whose rent is badly in arrears.
Among the county’s 26 justice courts, Kyrene – which covers Ahwatukee and Guadalupe and small parts of Tempe and Chandler – ranked fifth last year for the number of eviction notices issued, data from the courts show.
Kyrene’s 2,272 eviction notices in 2021 were not far behind 3,027 that made the Surprise court the one with the highest number of evictions. Kyrene's total dwarfed the 22 that made the Gila Bend court the one with the lowest number.
In all, 41,429 evictions were ordered last year, the data show. In the first two months of this year, 9,722 have been issued countywide. Kyrene maintained its status as the court with the fifth-highest number of evictions at 581.
Justice Courts spokesman Scott Davis said that in studying the nearly 150,000 evictions ordered county-wide in the last three years, the number of orders issued in any given month has yet to equal prepandemic 2019.
“We can see that February continues the prior months’ trend of a gradual return to ‘normal’ filing levels,” Davis said. “We use 2019’s filing data as our baseline because that is the most recent full year with no pandemic effects.
“February’s 4,509 eviction filings were 86% of what we saw in the corresponding month in 2019,” he said. “January’s 5,213 filings were 84% of 2019; December, 74%; November, 65%.”
But while the number of evictions has not caught up to pre-pandemic levels. The average dollar amount of judgments against tenants has soared from $1,922 in 2019 to $3,277 in 2021 – a 70% increase.
Bellavigna appreciates the seriousness and the heartbreak of the role she will be playing in seeing that eviction orders are carried out. As the owner of Desert Paradise Realty and Property Management, which she founded in 2008, she’s had her fair share of tenants in arrears.
“We have to do this; it’s the law,” she said. “And it’s kind of hard to do when rents are being inflated the way they are, but it is what it is, and it’s got to be done. And I’d rather be the one that does it with a little bit of empathy and compassion, and see if there are resources on hand, to see if there’s something that can be done to assist them. That’s not my job but if I
can provide resources, that doesn’t hurt me or anybody else.”
A Navy veteran who learned complex electronics when she was station in San Diego from 1981 to 1984, Bellavigna is aware of the resources that can help veterans who are struggling to keep up with their rent.
There are resources for non-veterans, too, she said, and the biggest challenge often is connecting tenants to them.
“We’re a service to the community,” she said. “Most people don’t know how to get them, but there are resources out there. Hopefully I’ll be able to provide some of those, which most judges probably can’t do.”
Bellavigna expressed compassion for those tenants who find themselves on the verge of losing their home, saying “I think rates and rents are going up stupidly.”
And she knows that in executing her duties, she could face not only heartbreaking situations but volatile ones as well.
“It’s a shame this is going on right now,” she said of soaring rents, admitting that has compounded the stress factor.
“That’s the only thing that could be a little bit jarring on my side – that I’m knocking on doors,” she said. “People are more stressed than ever and I have to be cautious about that. But I think if you treat people with respect and dignity, it’s harder for them to get mad at you.”
Bellavigna, who plans to run on the November ballot for a four-year term as Kyrene Justice Court constable, is the third person to fill that position since the last election in 2018, when Democrat Kent Rini of Tempe was elected and quit in a
matter of weeks after taking office amid growing complaints by his supervisors about his performance.
He was replaced by Ahwatukee resident and 27-year law enforcement veteran Ben Halloran, who resigned in December for personal reasons.
Bellavigna’s diverse career has included six years as a U.S. Department of Defense contractor working on intricate electrical systems for fighter jets and helicopters; nine years providing the light and sound systems nationwide for bands and corporate events; and nine years running a business as co-owner with her father of a patent for a unique lathe that improved the fit of contact lenses on people’s eyes.
She even owned a gym in Ahwatukee that was exclusively for women. She opened Ahwatukee CrossFit in 2015 while also running her real estate brokerage and property management company and found that in the four years she ran the gym, “I got into the best shape of my life.”
But she closed it in mid-2019 – a stroke of good timing since the pandemic eight months later triggered the long-term shutdown of gyms.
She said she’s already told the supervisors that if she wins a full term as constable, she will divest herself from her realty/ property management company and that “I’m 100% fine with that.”
“I like to do new things and learn new things,” said Bellavigna, who said she applied for the constable position out of a desire to give back to the community – an attitude reflected by her motto, “Service Before Self.”
Active in three nonprofits that help military veterans in various ways, Bellavigna also maintains a realistic attitude toward the new job she is taking on.
As the number of evictions issued by all 26 justice courts in Maricopa County has risen, the average size of judgments issued in landlords’ favor has soared. (Maricopa County Justice Courts)
“A lot of people don’t even know what a constable is,” she conceded. “I think your basic citizen has no idea. If they’ve never been in trouble, they would never run into a constable. And we don’t give out the citizen-of-the-year awards, that’s for sure.” ■
Bridget Bellavigna of Ahwatukee has added Maricopa County Constable to her jam-packed resume that includes a diverse array of careers. (David Minton/AFN Staff Photographer)
Concerts in
Park
us in supporting our local charity, the Y’s Outreach Program for Ahwatukee Seniors. YOPAS provides free services such as transportation to doctor appointments, grocery shopping, and friendly visiting to combat loneliness. Help Ahwatukee seniors remain living in their own homes as long as possible by signing up to volunteer and/or making a donation at the concert tent or make a donation now by using the QR code. www. valleyymca.org/opas/
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Bowie supports lieutenant governor creation
BY HOWARD FISCHER Capitol Media Services
Arizona voters may get one more chance to decide if they’d like to have a lieutenant governor.
Yes, it’s true that voters have rejected the idea twice in the past, in 1994 and again in 2010.
But Sen. J.D. Mesnard, R-Chandler, one of the prime sponsors of the proposal, insists this is a new and improved version. And he is telling colleagues that if they put it on the November ballot it has a much better chance of approval.
So far, most lawmakers from both parties appear to like the plan.
It cleared the Senate on a 23-5 vote. That leaves only a final House vote. And as a measure referred to the ballot, it does not need the blessing of Gov. Doug Ducey. If a governor dies in office, quits to take another job, gets criminally indicted, or is impeached and convicted – all of which actually has happened in Arizona – the next in line is the secretary of state. Only thing is, the person in that office got
there by being elected on his or her own. And Mesnard said voters generally make a choice based not on the idea the secretary of state is the governor-in-waiting but on the particular skill set for that office whose duties, from running elections to filing certain business records, are more administrative than policy.
And it has happened more than once that the secretary of state is not of the same party.
What all that means, Mesnard said, is that the policy decisions made by voters in choosing a governor can suddenly be turned on their head by his or her successor.
That most recently occurred in 2009 when Democrat Janet Napolitano quit less than two years into her second term to take a job in the newly elected Obama administration. That put Republican Secretary of State Jan Brewer into the top job.
Democrat Rose Mofford became governor in 1988 after the Legislature impeached and convicted Republican Evan Mecham.
The parallel proposals awaiting a House vote, SB 1255 and SCR 1024, would set up a system where whoever won each party’s
gubernatorial primary would, within 60 days, choose a running mate whose name also would be on the ballot.
One of the reasons there has been prior opposition was the concern of simply increasing government by creating a do-nothing position. This plan, however, spells out that whoever becomes lieutenant governor would serve as the director of a state agency.
Sen. Sean Bowie, D-Phoenix, the other sponsor of the plan, said this actually could save money.
Most agency chiefs easily make six-digit salaries. But the pay for elected officials is set by the legislature. And so far they’ve concluded that the maximum anyone other than judges should make is the $95,000 a year paid to the governor.
Bowie also pointed out that Arizona is one of just five states that does not have a lieutenant governor. He acknowledged, though, that the position is different in various states, with some running as a slate with the governor, as is proposed here, and others having this second-in-line run on his or her own.
House Minority Leader Reginald Bolding,
D-Laveen, said he kind of likes that second option, noting that a separate race forces candidates to run on his or her own ideas and record.
And as to continuity of policy if the governor leaves office, he pointed out that nothing in the proposal actually requires that the running mate be from the same party.
Mesnard conceded the point.
But he said he presumes that the political parties will do everything they can to make sure the public is aware of the qualifications of the lieutenant governor. In fact, Mesnard said, it’s in their interest to do so, just the same as now happens at the national level.
“Presumably, presidential nominees choose a VP that’s going to enhance the ticket,’’ he said.
The measure, if approved in November, would not take effect until the 2026 election. That means whoever is elected governor this year will have to choose a running mate if he or she wants a second term. It also means that whoever is elected secretary of state will remain first in the line of succession through 2026. ■
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Ahwatukee businessman pens 16th novel
BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor
In a conference room at the Executive Suites at Agave in Ahwatukee, building owner Charles G. Irion takes a position he rarely occupies: He is sitting.
If ever the term Renaissance man applied, Irion is the one to wear it.
Among his achievements is the publication last month of his 16th mystery novel, “Murdered by Gods: Timbuktu,” the final mystery in his three-part “Murdered by God” series.
Irion has published 16 books – the “Summit Murder Mystery Series,” the “Hell Series,” a cookbook featuring road kill and the “Murdered By Gods” series.
His mysteries have been lauded by critics and fans for plot twists and color.
“I meld reality, culture, religion and fiction,” Irion explained. “With the murder mystery it makes it as interesting a journey for the reader. I try to incorporate enough clues but you don’t know until the last chapters and the reader ends up saying ‘I didn’t see that coming!’ And I like it
his own taste for adventure.
A Phoenix resident since the early 70s, he is a man of many interests, all of which he heartily pursues.
He holds bachelor degrees in economics and biology, a masters in international marketing and a masters in business administration.
“I get to play in a lot of different fields,” he said. “It keeps me interested in life.”
And Irion traverses many diverse fields – including writing, publishing, working in movies as an executive producer and actor, businessman. Yet, the position he is proudest of is his 15-year role with Project C.U.R.E.
Around three Ahwatukee kitchen tables a group of moms with sons who have disabilities envisioned and created Pathway to Work, a nonprofit that prepares young adults with developmental disabilities for the working world. They find it hard to believe five years have passed since those planning sessions came to fruition.
“March 17 is our lucky day,” said Maureen Mills, one of the moms and a board member of the nonprofit. “We became an official 501(c)(3) organization on Saint Patrick’s Day 2017.”
Mills, Nancy Claussen and Amy Dill, have known one another since their sons
when readers tell me they learned a lot while enjoying the mystery book.”
All Irion’s books have been inspired by
The nonprofit, with one of its seven nationwide distribution centers in Phoenix, collects and delivers life-saving medical equipment and supplies to disadvantaged hospitals and clinics in more than 135 countries. He has been involved with the nonprofit since 2004 as a board member and international assessment representative.
“I was introduced to Project C.U.R.E. through a collaborative with another NGO that I was a board member with – K2 Summit Foundation. We were building a new medical clinic in Tanzania for orphans and Project C.U.R.E. was providing the medical equipment and supplies,” said Irion.
It was while working with Project C.U.R.E. in Mali, his last international mission, that the idea for his latest novel began to blossom.
Even before international missions delivering medical supplies to needy areas, Irion craved adventure. His drive to achieve began at age 14 when his father died.
“I had to pay my own bills so it motivated me. During school vacations, I would take extra classes as a way to earn extra credits,” he said. “Before Project C.U.R.E., I was an adrenaline junkie – mountain climbing, skydiving, alpine rappelling, scuba diving around the world, and more!”
Joining Project C.U.R.E. brought more exposure to countries and cultures – and more ideas for books.
see AUTHOR page 20
attended Kyrene de la Esperanza Elementary School. It has been about the same
amount of time that they have been sharing their concerns about what programs
would be appropriate for their sons once they finished high school. And now they are hoping the community will support their work by attending a gala fundraising event titled Paving the
AFN NEWS STAFF
Charles Irion, wearing his Project C.U.R.E. shirt, visited the Philippines in 1917 to help care for impoverished villagers. (Courtesy Charles Irion).
Corpus Christi Knights pitch in to help war-torn Ukraine
The Corpus Christi Knights of Columbus Council 10062 has authorized an initial donation of $2,500.00 to aid victims war-torn Ukraine. The Knights received donations from anonymous sources and some council members also donated to this effort.
In a promotion to accelerate the relief effort, the Supreme Council Knights of Columbus has matched this $2,500.00 initial donation sending a total of $5,000.00 from the Corpus Christi Council and the Supreme Council to aid Ukrainians effected by the Russian invasion.
“Knights of Columbus Councils in Ukraine do exist and they are asking for our help,” the group said, adding that so far $5 million has come directly from Knights of Columbus Councils worldwide and friends of the Knights of Columbus.
“The Knights of Corpus Christi Council 10062, Phoenix thank everyone who donates to this cause and especially to the anonymous donors who helped to make our initial donation possible,” a spokesman said. “Donations are on-going. Your contribution will not be turned away.”
To help: kofc.org/en/what-we-do/charity/ukraine. html.
Legion post in Tempe holding popular swing band dance
American Legion Post 2 will hold its 27th annual Sentimental Dreams Dance with the 15-piece Swing Memories Big Band 7-10 p.m. April 9 at its headquarters, 2125 S. Industrial Park Ave., Tempe. Proceeds will benefit the American Legion Boys State and Legion Auxiliary Girls State programs to be held in June. Both programs teach area high school juniors the workings of democratic government and values and responsibilities of citizenship..
Tickets are $15 per person and available at the door or by calling 480-967-2968
Gated community holding big rummage sale for all Saturday
The large Miralago gated community at the intersection of Tanglewood Drive and 12th Street is holding a yard and garage sale 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, March 26.
AROUND AHWATUKEE
People who want to attend will be given a special code when they arrive at the gate.
Congressional candidates are
debating at Club West clubhouse
Candidates for Congress in CD4 will be debating 7-9 p.m. today, March 23, at Foothills Club West Clubhouse. The event is free and open to the public.
People can participate as well by sending in questions no later than Friday to ld18clubwestcaptain@ gmail.com.
‘Kids extravaganza’ offered at JEB Boxercise Gym on Saturdays
JEB Boxercise Gym at 4747 Elliot Road, Ahwatukee, holds a “kids extravaganza” 10-11 a.m. every Saturday.
For details, call 602-775-2462 or go to jebboxercise. com
Ahwatukee Recreation Center planning a big book sale
Most activities at the Ahwatukee Recreation Center aren’t open to the public.
But people can mark 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. April 8-9 on their calendar for one of those rare public events – a giant book sale at the ARC, 5001 E. Cheyenne, in the front parking lot.
Dell Taylor, one of the organizers said the sale will feature used books in a wide variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, history, memoirs, best sellers, and more. Hard cover will retail for $1 and paperbacks for 50 cents.
Patrons also will be helping nearby residents who belong to the ARC: the funds raised will be used to expand its library of large-print books, “which we really need,” Taylor said.
Blue Star pavers available to order for Memorial Day
An engraved commemorative paver placed at Ahwatukee’s Blue Star Memorial is the perfect way to honor a family member or friend who served or is currently serving in the U.S. military and the Desert Pointe Garden Club will be taking paver orders through March so they will be placed in time for Memorial Day.
The Blue Star Memorial is a joint project of the Desert Pointe Garden Club and the Ahwatukee Board of Management and is located on the north side of Warner Road just west of 48th Street. Parking is available in the Board of Management lot. Pavers cost $50 without a military logo or $60 with the logo.
Order forms are available at the Ahwatukee Board of Management office, 4700 E. Warner Road or at Blue-Star-Memorial-order-form-final-pdf. (az.gardenclubs.com).
Ahwatukee Republican Women accepting scholarship bids
As Ahwatukee high school seniors begin homing in on post-graduation plans, Ahwatukee Republican Women hope they remember to apply for their annual Marjorie Miner Scholarship. The scholarship was established in 2011 in honor of the longtime Republican activist – who has been a member of ARW since it was founded in 2005.
Applicants must live in Ahwatukee and be registered Republicans and the deadline is April 30.
Scholarship applicants should include two letters of recommendation from other than a family member, a 250-500-word double-spaced essay incorporating their involvement volunteer service, extracurriculars, clubs and educational goals.
Completed applications should be sent to Ahwatukee Republican Women -Marjorie Miner Scholarship c/o Scholarship Committee, PO Box 93391, Phoenix, AZ 85070. Ahwatukee GOP Women offering scholarship for 12th year.
Information: ahwatukeerepublicanwomen.com/ scholarships.
Kyrene Foundation seeks more sponsors for golf tourney
Sponsors are being sought for the Kyrene Foundation’s 11th annual Golf Classic May 6 at Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass.
Last year the Golf Classic raised more than $25,000 to help support various Foundation initiatives in the Kyrene School District including the Kyrene Family Resource Center, teacher mini-grants and principal (cq) grant, student scholarships and recognitions and annual initiatives such as Backpacks for Students, Thanksgiving Food Baskets and Winter Wonderland.
This year’s goal is $30,000. Information: Kyrene Foundation.org.
Time growing short to register for Ahwatukee Easter parade
The Kiwanis Ahwatukee Easter Parade and Spring Fling will be rolling at 10 a.m. April 16 from Warner Road north on 48th Street to Cheyenne Drive and groups and individuals have until April 7 to enter. Forms are available at ahwatukeekiwanis.org.
Also returning after the two-year hiatus is the Spring Fling that follows the parade at Ahwatukee Community Center Park, 48th Street and Warner Road, where entertainment, vendor booths, games, food and fun for the whole family await from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Kiwanis Club’s biggest fundraiser of the year is being headed by Andi Pettyjohn for the 22nd consecutive year while Mike Schmitt will be the Parade Boss for the 30th year.
People who have questions or want to volunteer to help on the parade can call 480-759-0007 or e-mail msch0007@aol.com. For more Spring Fling information, call 602-402-6267 or e-mail andi@wttaz.com.
Service Saturdays back in action with Ahwatukee professor
Ahwatukee resident Dr. Neal Lester, Foundation Professor of English at Arizona State University and founder/director of its Project Humanities, has begun its biweekly Service Saturdays, where groups and individuals distribute clothing and toiletries at the Human Services Campus in downtown Phoenix.
The outreach runs from 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. and services the Campus’ unhoused clients. During the outreach, clients shop alongside “personal shopper” volunteers who aid in searching for various styles and sizes, as well as share warm conversations with them.
There also is a weekly sorting of donated items 2-4 p.m. Fridays.
Information: projecthumanities.asu.edu/service-Saturdays or projecthumanities@asu.edu. ■
Way, on April 8 at Foothills Golf Club. Hosted by Univision’s Jazmin Mosqueda, the gala will feature music, dancing, signature cocktails, silent auction and presentations from participants sharing stories of their successes.
The public is invited to attend. Tickets are available at ptwforptw22.eventbrite. com. For more information, contact Maureen Mills at maureenm@azpathwaytowork.org or 480-363-0907.
Each of the three founders’ sons have autism and Mills’ son also has Down syndrome. Fully aware that their sons’ needs are significant, the moms know each of these young men are capable of being employed.
Dill, the current board president and CEO, remembers the organization planning sessions.
“We wanted to create an environment that started with person-centered planning to identify participants’ interests, strengths and preferences and use those to develop achievable employment goals,” Dill said. “Then we needed to provide the appropriate supports, continued learning opportunities and hands-on experiences
to help them achieve their goals.”
Dill started her career in general education as a fifth-grade teacher, but changed her career course soon after her son was diagnosed with autism. She dedicated herself to educating and assisting the families of children with disabilities, and the professionals who work with them.
This assistance has ranged from working with families in their homes as an early intervention specialist, teaching special education preschool, teaching as an adjunct professor with Northern Arizona University, and working in the dispute resolution unit at the Arizona Department of Education.
Since her son’s birth in 1998, Mills, who holds a degree in marketing from the University of Arizona, has been active in Valley organizations that support individuals with disabilities and their families.
She also is a founding member of Down Syndrome Network of Arizona, spent several years as a program manager for Best Buddies Arizona and worked for the Arizona Department of Education as a parent information network specialist, helping families understand their educational rights.
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She continued her work supporting families at Raising Special Kids, Arizona’s Parent Training and Information Center, until she was promoted to her current position as communications coordinator for the organization.
Clausen, who holds a masters in aeronautics, worked in the airline industry for many years prior to working for the Federal Aviation Administration, developing regulations, policy, and guidance regarding air carrier operations. For over 20 years, she served as the FAA’s technical expert regarding the use of child restraint and restraint systems used by people with disabilities on aircraft.
During this time, she was also the FAA’s liaison to the Department of Transportation regarding DOT regulations that ad-
AUTHOR from page 18
“All my books were inspired either by my adventures or the medical missions to developing countries,” said Irion.
“Project C.U.R.E. gave me so much to write about; all I needed was characters and a plot. I was off to the races mentally developing stories based in part on real places, real sights, real sounds, real smells, real foods, real religions and real conflicts,” he explained.
“Conflicts are not in short supply. It seems I need bodyguards or armed escorts in many places I go to to inspect hospitals and medical facilities.
“My newest book was written after a mission to Mali. I have been there several times and was always amazed by the stories and history.”
His protagonist, the mountaineer Scott Devlon, looks a bit like the author. When asked if Devlon is based on the author, Irion hesitates and then answers shyly.
“I love my protagonist Scott Devlon, and yes I do see a bit of me in him – mountaineering, wanting to help others and a zest for life!”
The “Murdered by Gods” series was born when Irions joined an expedition to climb Mount Everest.
“In 1987, I was on an expedition for two months to climb Mt. Everest from the China side. We were one of the first groups the Chinese let into their country. We had Chinese officials accompanying us to make sure we didn’t spread any bad ideas about democracy,” he said.
“My agent in L.A. suggested I write a murder mystery based on Everest, and
dressed nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in air travel.
The Pathway to Work Center opened its doors in Tempe in 2018 with a staff of three led by Director of Education and Programing Lisa Silva, M.Ed. Although COVID required significant adjustments to program delivery, the organization weathered the pandemic without having to reduce staff.
Currently, the program employs six staff members and serves 23 participants, many of whom are interested in starting microbusinesses. The funds raised at Paving the Way will help transform space at the Pathway to Work Center into areas for those participants to build their businesses and a retail space to market their goods. ■
thus the summit murder series was born – seven continents, seven summits, seven murders. Scott (Devlon) was very busy over the 10 years of that series.”
And so was Irion.
For the last 15 years, Irion not only served with Project C.U.R.E., but with other charities as well.
Serving with Project C.U.R.E., he has traveled to more than 60 countries.
In 2020, after completing his term as president of the Phoenix Phil-Am Lions Club, Irion received the Melvin Jones Award from the International Lions Foundation.
His humanitarian and philanthropic endeavors are all a part of what Irion calls his “dash.”
“Whether we know it or not, we’re constantly making a difference in other people’s lives by our mood, our deeds,” he explained.
“The ‘dash’ appears between my birth year and my death year; it’s a look-back at what I did with my time here on earth; how I treated myself and others; and also how I treated the treasures I was granted – either monetarily or those without monetary value. The dash is you, it’s your life. So I think it’s important we all make the most of our dash.”
Irion’s books, including his latest, are available on Amazon on Kindle, Audiobook and paperback.
To learn more about Irion, including his artworks, see CharlesIrion.com.
Irion is also offering a free ebook from the Summit Murder Mystery series when anyone signs up for his newsletter at CharlesIrion.com/contact-me. ■
Ahwatukee Community Family Fun Run
ALL ARE INVITED!! PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE BOSCO 1ST ANNUAL FAMILY FUN RUN, SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND! THIS WILL BE A 5K RUN//WALK STARTING AT ST. JOHN BOSCO CATHOLIC SCHOOL THROUGH PECOS PARK AND BACK. WE WILL HAVE A FOOD TRUCK, LIVE MUSIC, BOUNCE HOUSE AND GAMES FOR EVERYONE AFTER THE RUN.
CHECK-IN WILL START AT 7:45AM WITH THE RUN STARTING AT 9:00AM AND POST-RUN FESTIVITIES TILL 12:00PM.
ADULTS ARE $35 AND KIDS ARE $10. MAX COST PER FAMILY IS $80. ALL PARTICIPANTS WILL RECEIVE A FAMILY FUN RUN SHIRT, A COMPETITION MEDAL AND OTHER ITEMS.
STRETCH OUT AND WE’LL SEE YOU THERE! SCAN THE QR CODE TO REGISTER TODAY!
SATURDAY, APRIL 2ND $35/ADULTS $10/CHILD $80/FAMILY CHECK-IN AT 7:45AM FOOD TRUCK LIVE MUSIC BOUNCE HOUSE
www.ahwatukee.com
CK’s new owners keep it a Cheers-like tavern
BY COTY DOLORES MIRANDA AFN Contributor
The venerable CK’s Tavern & Grill’s new owners are happy when patrons don’t realize there has been a change of ownership.
That’s because Indy Singh and Ken Matharu, partners who purchased the eatery at 4142 E. Chandler Blvd. in November, wanted to make it a seamless transfer.
Admittedly, the 17-year ownership of Kendra Flaum Pieratt and her brother Chad Flaum, was a hard act to follow.
And it was the new owners’ idea to keep the sale on the downlow for nearly a month as customers came and went without detecting any difference in food, service or atmosphere.
“We really liked CK’s for being CK’s,” said Singh, whose family operates Eatalio Pasta & Wine in Chandler and Gilbert and who worked in restaurant management while living in England.
“I’ve had extensive operational management background in England, consulting with pubs,” he said. “Pubs are a very similar concept to CK’s – a place where everyone knows your name. That’s one of the reasons we liked CK’s. It was a warm feeling and familiar faces.”
He said he and Matharu, initially as customers, looked over the eatery several times before making an offer.
“We wanted to go and check out the vibe for ourselves and when we did, we both thought yeah, we really like this,” he said. “We haven’t seen the need to make changes; there are obviously some tweaks to be made, but we really haven’t seen anything we needed to change.”
One of the decisions Singh and Matharu made was to keep the CK’s staff, promoting from within.
Krista Didion, an 11-year employee who started as a server at CK’s, was named general manager.
Didion described the transition in ownership as “surprisingly comfortable and natural”.
“Ken and Indy are very invested in making CK’s stay successful and making sure it is still the same much-loved neighborhood bar,” she said, adding that they “have been extremely supportive of me whenever I have needed them to be, and always have my back.
“In the end we all have the same common goal, make CK’s great,” she added.
“It’s our home and our family, and that will never change.”
“It’s a big, happy family,” Singh agreed. Singh and Matharu, 37 and 40, respectively, plan to promote CK’s via social media.
“We want to connect and engage more with our customers,” said Singh. “We’re definitely hands-on and obviously want to carry on the good work Kendra started.”
“I just love getting out there and getting to know the regulars,” he added.
Matharu said when he’s onsite, he looks for new.
“If we see someone we haven’t met yet, we try to make sure we introduce ourselves and our staff and
try to learn more about them,” he said. Being made to feel welcomed is a twoway street and Matharu said in just these few short months as owners, “The community’s response has been incredible for both of us.
“We were overwhelmed by the support and warmth we’ve received from the community. For instance, Ahwatukee stepped up again to support with a large count of donations for kids as a part of CK’s Angel Tree program.”
Another CK’s tradition the new owners are continuing is the annual Charity Golf Tournament that returns May 21 after a year hiatus due to COVID. Proceeds from the 10th annual event once again benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Though the pair are looking to bring in more entertainment, for now the schedule remains the same with Friday nights hosting local bands like Chandler-based Zen and Tonic, and the popular Live Trivia on Saturday.
Twice a month on Wednesdays, CK’s hosts Party on the Patio with live music on their patio.
“This is usually a mix of music and we want to make sure our regulars get the entertainment, too,” said Singh, noting Friday’s late night bands aren’t for everyone.
The new owners have kept the daily food and drink specials, happy hours with reverse happy hour Sunday through Thursday 9 p.m. to close.
For CK’s ‘regulars’ like Steve Armstrong, a 21-year Ahwatukee resident who knew the business when it was ‘Famous Sam’s’ and ‘Bar None’ before becoming CK’s in 2003, the seamless transition has been a relief.
“It was a little scary when Kendra told us she was selling CK’s. I’ve seen businesses in Ahwatukee come and go,” said Armstrong, who lives close enough to walk.
Armstrong said he understands why CK’s Tavern & Grill, which bills itself as ‘Ahwatukee’s Favorite Hang-out’, is often compared with the iconic bar in the sit-
see CK’S page 24
Indy Singh is happy to be the new co-owner of CK’s Tavern & Grill in Ahwatukee and Krista Didion, an 11-year employee who started as a server at CK’s, is delighted to be general manager.
(Special to AFN)
Taco Tuesday at CK’s includes $8.49 street tacos and $4 Margaritas and Dos XX pints all day. (Facebook)
com “Cheers.”
“Like the song says, it’s a place ‘where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came,’” he said. “It’s a community place, and it’s going good with the new owners.”
Didion said she’s excited about the possibilities including a regular “Brewery Highlight” featuring breweries, especially local ones.
“Also in April,” she said, “we’re doing a huge fundraiser with the Armer Founda-
For more information on our services, visit our website! Arizona Premier Dermatology @azpremierderm
tion for Kids to raise money for the Banner Children and Phoenix Children’s Hospital music programs.”
The culmination of that fundraiser, she said, will be a special performance of the Tom Foolery Band partnering with a local children’s music program performing at CK’s.
“Being supportive within the community helps everyone to feel good and better about themselves,” said Matharu. “When people feel empowered, they feel a sense of control, enabling them to influence positive change.”
Information: CKGrill.com. ■
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New reports and tips for consumers
BY DIANE E. BROWN AFN Guest Writer
The threats facing consumers seem to be increasing every year. Consumers are burdened by identity theft risks, robocall scams, and the difficulty of navigating our credit reports. Arizonans are facing surges in counterfeit products, dark apps that compromise our privacy, erroneous medical bills, and financing traps with gotcha clauses.
And then there are products we pay good money for that are difficult, if not impossible, to fix when something small goes wrong.
In recognition of Consumer Protection Week 2022, Arizona PIRG Education Fund has released a series of consumer protection tips and tools to help Arizonans address some of the most common consumer issues. Top consumer complaints. In 2021, a record number of individuals from across the country filed complaints with the
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Complaint Database.
Topping the list of the issues that Arizonans complained about: credit reporting, credit repair services, or other personal consumer reports, including incorrect information or a problem with a credit reporting company’s investigation into an existing problem; and debt collection, including attempts to collect debt not owed.
Check out our tips on freezing your files, requesting your credit reports, and other steps you can take to protect yourself.
Failing the fix. Chances are you don’t walk into an electronics store and think, “I’m wanting to buy something unfixable.” But how do you know which products you’ll be able to repair to last? We compiled repairability rankings for 186 phones and laptops, grading manufacturers on whether they are Failing the Fix. Our resource guide is designed to help consumers who want to purchase easily repairable products.
Dark patterns. Apps, especially social media apps, collect an incredible amount of information about us without us realizing it. The Arizona PIRG Education Fund has compiled step-by-step instructions, using screenshots, on how to change your settings on leading apps to protect your privacy on both iPhones and Androids. The ‘buy now, pay later’ phenomenon. The new ‘buy now, pay later’ financing scheme is causing complaints to soar. Consumers making purchases as small as $50 online are offered payment plans, which can turn into debt traps. We offer tips to avoid the interest and fees that often come with ‘buy now, pay later’ “deals”. Counterfeit products. Often consumers associate counterfeits with luxury items such as bags or shoes; however, the variety of counterfeit products includes medicines, hygiene products and COVID-19 tests. See our tip guide on the best practices to avoid counterfeits when shopping online or evaluating reviews.
Surprise medical bills. Beyond illness or injury, being a patient isn’t easy financially. Arizonans need to know their new consumer protections against unexpected and unavoidable out-of-network medical charges. This hard-won Arizona PIRGsupported consumer law can save insured Arizonans from paying hundreds to thousands of dollars in surprise medical bills. No doubt scammers are going to try to find new ways to scam. Consumer Protection Week may be over, but protecting consumers is never over for us.
Sign up to receive our emails and keep up-to-date on our work: arizonapirgedfund.org/contact and @ArizonaPIRG on Facebook and Twitter.
Diane E. Brown is the executive director of the Arizona Public Interest Research Group (Arizona PIRG) Education Fund, which conducts research and education on issues in the public interest. Reports and tips for consumers can be found on ArizonaPIRGEdFund.org.
Medicare Advantage addresses healthcare inequities
BY JOHN SKELTON AFN Guest Writer
Inequities in our nation’s healthcare system occurred long before the pandemic began. The pandemic has deepened some of the existing issues among lowerincome, minority and older Americans – all of whom struggle with access and affordability issues that all too often prevent them from getting the care they need. As COVID-19 becomes more endemic in our communities, we need to remember what we’ve learned over the past two years to address the issues that contribute to the many inequities that plague our healthcare system. Chief among these lessons should be the importance of access and affordability.
For America’s seniors – especially those from historically underserved racial or ethnic minority communities – now is an especially crucial time as the Centers for
Medicare & Medicaid Services is undertak-
ing its annual Medicare Advantage rate setting process. To keep this program strong for the more than 28 million Americans who rely on it, it is critical that the CMS and Congress ensure it is properly funded.
Given the significance of this issue and its impact on Arizona’s seniors, my organization, Senior Helpers Tempe, recently participated in a Better Medicare Alliance roundtable discussion to advocate for a strong Medicare Advantage program.
Medicare Advantage plays a unique role in our healthcare system. It is helping connect some of our most underserved communities with the critical services and offerings they need to get and stay healthy, including a much higher proportion of low-income and minority beneficiaries than who are currently served by traditional fee for service Medicare.
A full one-third of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries identify as a minority, com-
pared to only 16 percent of FFS Medicare enrollees. This includes 53 percent of Latinx seniors and nearly 50 percent of African-American seniors nationwide. Moreover, over half of the program’s beneficiaries live on less than $24,500 per year and 22 percent are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.
Congress and CMS should not derail the progress this program is making to provide greater access, increase equity, and overcome barriers to care that prevent many Arizonans from getting the medical services they need.
If reimbursement rates are reduced, it could threaten the many benefits that are helping at-risk seniors overcome the inequities in our healthcare system while actually reducing out-of-pocket costs. These include out-of-the-box offerings like meal delivery, transportation to and from medical appointments, and in-home support services, as well customized healthcare
plans and more broadly comprehensive prescription coverage.
Seniors simply cannot find many of these services in FFS Medicare, which is one of the reasons the Medicare Advantage program is so wildly popular with its beneficiaries. A recent survey indicates that 94 percent of seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage are satisfied with their coverage and 93 percent believe protecting it should be a priority for the administration. This program is popular with seniors and membership is growing every day. By the end of 2022, it’s projected that enrollment will reach 29.5 million Americans. Our leaders in Washington should help ensure Medicare Advantage can continue to grow along with enrollment so it can keep playing a critical role in increasing access and equity while improving healthcare outcomes for all Arizona communities. John Skelton owns Senior Helpers Tempe. ■
■ ARIZONA AREA RESIDENTS CASH IN: It’s hard to tell how much these unsearched Vault Bags loaded with rarely seen Gov’t issued coins that everyone will be trying to get could be worth someday. That’s because each Vault Bag is known to contain nearly 3 pounds of Gov’t issued coins some dating back to the 1800’s including all those shown in today’s publication. In addition, after each bag is loaded with over 200 rarely seen coins, each verified to meet a minimum collector grade of very good or above, the dates and mint marks are never searched to determine collector values. So you better believe at just $980 these unsearched Vault Bags are a real steal.
Rarely seen United States coins up for grabs in Arizona -zip codes determine who gets them
Unsearched Vault Bags loaded with rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued coins some dating back to the 1800’s and worth up to 50 times their face value are actually being handed over to residents who find their zip code below and beat the 48 hour order deadline
“The vaults at Federated Mint are going empty,” said Laura A. Lynne, Director of Coin and Currency for Federated Mint.
That’s because a decision by Federated Mint to release rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued coins, some worth up to 50 times their face value, means unsearched Vault Bags loaded with U. S. Gov’t issued coins dating back to the 1800’s are now being handed over to U.S. residents who find the first three digits of their zip code listed in today’s
publication.
“But don’t thank the Government. As Director of Coin and Currency for Federated Mint, I get paid to inform and educate the general public regarding U.S. coins. Ever since the decision by Federated Mint to release rarely seen Gov’t issued coins to the general public — I’m being asked how much are the unsearched Vault Bags worth? The answer is, there’s no way to tell. Coin values always fluctuate and there are never any guarantees, but we do know
this. Each unsearched bag weighs nearly 3 pounds and is known to contain rarely seen Morgan Silver Dollars and these coins alone could be worth $40 - $325 in collector value each according to The Official Red Book, a Guide Book of United States Coins. So there’s no telling what you’ll find until you search through all the coins. But you better believe at just $980 these unsearched Vault Bags are a steal,” said Lynne.
“These are not ordinary coins you find in your pocket change. These are
rarely seen silver, scarce, collectible and non-circulating U.S. coins dating back to the 1800’s so we won’t be surprised if thousands of U.S. residents claim as many as they can get their hands on. That’s because after the bags were loaded with nearly 3 pounds of Gov’t issued coins, each verified to meet a minimum collector grade quality of very good or above, the dates and mint marks were never searched
(Continued on next page)
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT ISSUED COINS SEALED IN EACH BAG:
■ UNSEARCHED: Pictured above are the unsearched Vault Bags being handed over to Arizona residents who call the National Toll-Free Hotline before the 48-hour deadline ends. And here’s the best part. Each Vault Bag is loaded with over 200 Gov’t issued coins, including all the coins pictured in today’s publication, some dating back to the 1800’s and worth up to 50 times their face value. Each coin is verified to meet a minimum collector grade of very good or above before the bags are securely sealed and the dates and mint marks are never searched by Federated Mint to determine collector value. If you find your zip code listed, call 1-800-869-3164 EXT.UV32849 immediately.
(Continued from previous page)
to determine collector values and the bags were securely sealed. That means there’s no telling what you’ll find until you search all the coins,” said Lynne.
The only thing U.S. residents who find their zip code printed in today’s publication need to do is call the National Toll-Free Hotline before the 48-hour deadline ends.
This is very important. After the Vault Bags were loaded with over 200 Gov’t issued coins, each verified to meet a minimum collector grade quality of very good or above, the dates and mint marks were never searched to determine collector values. The Vault Bag fee has been set for $1,500 for residents who miss the 48-hour deadline, but for those U.S. residents who beat the 48-hour deadline the Vault Bag fee is just $980 as long as they call the National Toll-Free Hotline before
the deadline ends.
“Remember this, we cannot stop collectors from buying up all the unsearched bags of coins they can get in this special advertising announcement. And you better believe with each bag being loaded with nearly 3 pounds of Gov’t issued coins we’re guessing they’re going to go quick,” said Lynne.
The phone lines will be ringing off the hook beginning at precisely 8:30 a.m. this morning. That’s because each unsearched Vault Bag is loaded with the rarely seen coins pictured left and highly sought after collector coins dating clear back to the 1800’s including iconic Morgan Silver Dollars, a historic Peace Silver Dollar, stunning Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars, the collectible Silver Eisenhower Dollars, spectacular Silver Liberty Head Half and Quarter Dollars, rarely seen Silver Franklin Half Dollars, high demand President Kennedy Silver Half Dollars, beautiful
Silver Standing Liberty Quarter Dollars, American Bicentennial Quarters, rare Liberty V Nickels, one cent Historic Wheat Coins including 1943 “Steel Cents”, one of the beautiful Winged Liberty Head Dimes, scarce Indian Head one cent U.S. coins and the last ever minted Buffalo Nickels.
“With all these collectible Gov’t Issued coins up for grabs we’re going to do our best to answer all the calls,” said Lynne.
Thousands of U.S. residents stand to miss the deadline to claim the U.S. Gov’t issued coins. That means U.S. residents who find the first three digits of their zip code listed in today’s publication can claim the unsearched bags of money for themselves and keep all the U.S. Gov’t issued coins found inside.
If you find your zip code listed, call 1-800-869-3164 EXT.UV32849 immediately. Just be sure to call before the deadline ends 48 hours from today’s publication date. ■
FEDERATED MINT, 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 SHIPPING AND RETURN POSTAGE. THIS SAME OFFER MAY BE MADE AVAILABLE AT A LATER DATE
Silver Peace Dollar
Silver Morgan Dollar 1878-1921
Sports & Recreation
Jocelyn Briski turned adversity into success
BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor
Jocelyn Briski’s path in high school has so far been different than most players her age.
Her freshman softball season at Desert Vista was canceled due to the pandemic. Heading into her sophomore year she walked away from the game completely when her mom, Melissa, was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. She moved out of her family home to not risk her mom’s health from further complications while COVID-19 ran rampant across the state.
It was a tough time in Briski’s life, but she found strength in her friends and teammates that supported her. Melissa finished radiation treatments last July and is now nearing her oneyear anniversary of being cancer free.
“It was definitely a struggle,” Briski said of her mom’s diagnosis and treatment. “Not everybody goes through this and not having anyone to talk to
about it was hard, especially as it was during the peak of COVID.
“It was hard being away from her, too, and knowing there was nothing I could do.”
Briski moved back in with her parents after about a month and a half and returned to the softball field a short time later. In September of last year, she committed to the University of Alabama.
Alabama was one of three official visits Briski took. All of her offers came from her film with the Arizona Storm Mathis 18U club team.
She said she immediately felt welcome in Tuscaloosa and already a part of the team. That’s what made her decision to commit so early in her career easy.
“I visited three schools – Alabama, Michigan and Oklahoma – and Alabama was just different than all of them,” Briski said. “They really put the person before the player, and they really care for you.”
With nearly two full seasons at Des-
ert Vista still left on her plate, Briski is motivated to make it special.
She has established herself as one of the top pitchers in the state and country. Last year in the Thunder’s first game of the season against Chandler, Briski threw a perfect game. She struck out 19 batters in Desert Vista’s win.
At the time, it was the third perfect game Briski had ever thrown dating back to youth softball. She also had a no-hitter last season.
It didn’t take long to replicate that same success this year as a junior. Against Mountain View team on Tues-
see BRISKI page 31
Desert Vista junior pitcher Jocelyn Briski, an Alabama commit, had to endure some adversity with her mother’s fight against breast cancer during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. But like her mother, she prevailed and has now become one of the best pitchers in the state and country.
(Dave Minton/AFN Staff)
Portillo creates ‘safe space’ for Pride softball
BY ZACH ALVIRA AFN Sports Editor
Jessica Portillo can’t help but smile when reminiscing about her time at Mountain Pointe High School as a student and softball player.
Even with her career cut short due to a torn ACL, she cherished every moment.
A 1996 grad, Portillo played her freshman and sophomore seasons on the diamond before her knee injury kept her out of action as a junior and senior. She said it allowed her to have a ‘normal’ high school experience. “Back then, the process to heal was a lot longer and more painful,” Portillo said. “I was able to actually be a teenager my junior and senior years. I got into school more, did some clubs. All four years here were amazing.”
al leagues. She always desired to be a teacher and about four years ago took a job with Tempe Union High School District. Two years later, she was back at her alma mater in the front office and was an assistant with the junior varsity softball team.
Then-head softball coach James Bradford announced he was stepping away from his head coaching duties to focus on his family after the 2021 season. Portillo was asked to take over.
But more than that, she wants to make sure every player knows she is there for them. She knows the daily struggles high schoolers go through. She has made her desk in the office and the field a safe place for them to escape during tough times.
Portillo managed to get back on the field after high school in the form of recreation-
Leading the team she once played for was a dream. She wished she could have played out her final two years but now thrives to make the seasons she missed as a player special for those on the roster.
“She knows when we are having a rough day, she knows how to get us out of a slump,” junior infielder Samantha Trujillo said. “She’s been through it, and I think that gives us something to look forward to. Like, she’s been through it so we know we can do it. She gives a safe space where we can go and be ourselves and not worry about the outside world.”
Beyond the coaching change, there has also been improvement not only in their play on the field but the support they feel
Mountain Pointe softball coach Jessica Portillo, an alum of the school, prides herself on creating a safe space for her players while building the program and creating a new culture. (Dave Minton/AFN Staff)
day, March 15, Briski struck out 19 of the 21 batters she faced for another perfect outing. She also hit an RBI double that clinched Desert Vista’s 1-0 win.
“She got a little bit nervous the second to last batter,” Desert Vista coach Chris Crowl said of Briski. “But true to form, she came through. She made a couple of big pitches and got the final pop out and strikeout. For us as a group, she’s our leader.”
Briski is 8-1 so far on the year with a .27 ERA and 125 strikeouts. Her ERA is the 11th best in the country and it’s come against some out-of-state opponents. She also has a .419 batting average with a team-high 14 RBI and three home runs.
But Briski hasn’t done it all on her own. This year’s Desert Vista team is different from those in the past. They have a high level of talent from top to bottom with every player able to contribute at the plate.
Six players, including Briski, boast a batting average higher than .300. Zhalia Asi and Mckenzie Leitgen, two freshmen, lead the team with a .556 and .463 average, respectively.
The Thunder’s losses this season have come against 4A power Canyon Del Oro
in Tucson and three California schools. The team is confident, and it shows in the tradition they adopted from 2016.
Every member of the program wears a thin black washer around their ring finger. The main goal is to switch that out at the end of the season with a championship ring.
“This has a constant memory every day as to what we are inspired to do,” Crowl said. “We ask the girls to wear it wherever they are. I was out in Superior and a bartender asked me what it was for. People ask us questions about it. It’s our goal.”
Crowl recognizes that to do that, it will take every player to continue playing at a high level. Many older players have taken some of the freshmen under their wings to help prepare them for a long, taxing season.
That has brought them closer together and grew their confidence as a team. Now, it’s about execution.
“Everybody has to come together and have everything being on at the right time,” Briski said. “Everyone has to know they all have their role and to perform that role.
“We all have the same goals and that’s to win a championship.” ■
from the rest of the campus.
The team is preparing to have a new scoreboard installed in about a month and also saw a permanent fence installed with a large maroon Pride banner in center field in direct shot of home plate. Portillo also hopes to install a warning track.
Members of the baseball team have often walked across campus to visit the girls and cheer them on during games.
Other athletes from Mountain Pointe’s programs have also showed up to support them. They recognize they are building something special under Portillo, even if it isn’t showing as much as they would like in the win column.
“I feel like we are a new team,” Figueroa said. “It’s a fresh start for everybody. We all just feel great about the wins.”
The Pride won four games in 2020 before the season was canceled due to the pandemic. Last year, they saw the win column once.
Figueroa is one of just two seniors on the team alongside outfielder Kaiya Curley. They both know they are part of a class that will help lead the younger players to more success in the future. That’s
Come discover...
why they take pride in the three games the team has won so far this season. They had hoped to win more, but improvement is what they were seeking, and they have found that. But most importantly, they are having fun.
Practices are light with jokes, but they get the work done. They all cheer and dance when walk-up songs play over the speakers during home games – another addition this season. The culture is changing, and Portillo credits the players with that just as much as her coaching staff.
“The upper classmen have done a really good job adapting and helping train the younger girls,” Portillo said. “They have done a great job taking them under their wings and correcting their mistakes and make sure they understand everything.”
As she looked out to the outfield and at the newly hung Pride banner on the fence, she smiled.
“I think that word says it all,” Portillo said referring to ‘Pride.’ “I take a lot of pride helping get this team situated. Coach Bradford did a lot for the team as well.
“Whoever I pass it on to in the years down the line, I want them to take pride in knowing they can make this program something special, too.” ■ PORTILLO from page
CHARITY FOOD DRIVE
Copenhagen has partnered with St. Mar y’s Food Bank in an effort to help our neighbors in need during a time of year when giving is historically slow. Now through March 23rd, Copenhagen will donate 5% of gross sales to St. Mar y’s Food Bank with a lofty goal of no less than $ 30,000 being donated. With this donation, St. Mar y’s Food Bank will be able to offer 210,000 meals, helping to nourish the body, mind and spirit of those in our community who find themselves having trouble meeting the most basic of daily needs. We all understand that the act of giving requires no reward, but during our charity drive you will enjoy a 5% discount on your entire purchase* as thanks for your support. We encourage you to give in any way you can during this event. Copenhagen will also be accepting donations of non-perishable food items, as well as monetar y gifts to Saint Mar y’s Food Bank. Thanks for your support!
Ahwatukee seafood eatery goes BYOB
GETOUT STAFF
Chesapeake Bay Seafood Bistro in Ahwatukee is going BYOB.
Guests can now bring their own adult beverages to enjoy when dining in, whether they’re in the mood for a crisp sauvignon blanc with red snapper, a buttery chardonnay with scallops, or a fruity IPA with a plate of fried cod tacos.
The casual ocean-themed restaurant, which opened last June at 5033 Elliot Road in the former space of Fresko Mediterranean Kitchen, prides itself on its friendly service, reasonable prices, seasonal selection of fresh fish and seafood, and fresh blue crabs flown in live daily from Maryland.
Now, owners James and Yolanda Brown say they are happy to host patrons who want to share a bottle of wine or their favorite beer with their meal.
“This allows our guests who would like to pair drinks with their food to have a gourmet experience at a fraction of the
price of a fine dining restaurant,” Yolanda said. “We invite everyone to let us know which combinations work best so we can share suggestions with others.”
The state’s BYOB exemption allows restaurants with an occupancy of 50 or less to let guests consume a limited amount of
Book pays homage to Mesa Temple’s Easter pageants
BY PAUL MARYNIAK AFN Executive Editor
As excitement begins to build over next month’s return of the Easter Pageant to the Mesa Arizona Temple after a three-year hiatus, a newly published book offers a detailed look at its evolution across eight decades.
For nearly three years, writers Jill Adair, a Mesa resident and the Temple’s communications director, and Cecily Condie, a former Mesa resident and editor-owner of Inglestone Publishing, combed through hundreds of photos, interviewed scores of people and burrowed through microfilm to produce an homage to a production
that draws over 100,000 people over the course of its multi-day presentation.
Adair and Condie teamed up with Gilbert book designer Leslie Thompson to produce “The Mesa Easter Pageant – 80 Years of Sharing the Story of Jesus the Christ,” a 280-page hardcover book that details both the pageant’s history and its community impact and historical significance.
From a humble Easter sunrise service, it has evolved into a work that depicts the life of Jesus Christ with a cast of more than 400 people and another 400 other volunteers.
The free pageant this year features a revised script, a new soundtrack specially recorded by the London Symphony
beer, wine or spirits per person between noon and 10 p.m.
That works out to 40 ounces of beer, 750 ml of wine or 4 ounces of distilled spirits.
The service fees at Chesapeake Bay are $10 per 750 ml bottle of wine ($5 for a 375ml bottle) and $1 per can or bottle of beer,
regardless of size. The Browns say this contributes to the cost of stocking glasses and labor for washing glasses and will help them stay competitive on food prices.
It also made the January 2022 issue of Phoenix Magazine’s 101 Best Dishes list for its blue crabs.
Daily selections of fish and seafood are available as salads, sandwiches, tacos and plates, and prices range from about $4.50 for tacos to roughly $20 for plates, depending on the catch.
Diners can choose from an “off the grill” preparation with seasonings such as Old Bay, garlic herb butter, teriyaki, lemon pepper and more, or “out the fryer” with a seasoned light cornmeal batter. Sides include hush puppies, house-made Old Bay chips, corn on the cob, fried zucchini and others.
The Browns are Virginia natives who lived for 30 years in San Diego before moving to Ahwatukee about five years ago.
Information: 480-590-3065; chesapeakebaybistro.com ■
James and Yolanda Brown own Chesapeake Bay Seafood Bistro in Ahwatukee. (AFN file photo)
Co-authors Jill Adair, left and Cecily Condie, center, credit book designer Leslie Thompson, right, with the engaging look of their book, “The Mesa Easter Pageant - 80 Years of Sharing the Story of Jesus the Christ.” (Special to AFN)
Orchestra and a massive stage with new props. It will be presented at 8 p.m. April 6-9 and 12-16, on the north lawn of the Mesa Arizona Temple, 101 South Lesueur. No tickets are needed.
As Adair and Condie show, the colorful spectacle started in 1938 as an Easter sunrise service that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held on the Mesa Arizona Tempe lawn.
Its popularity has grown so much that 9,600 folding chairs will be set up for each of the nine performances next month.
For a show that has grown in size and stature over time, you’d think its history would be well-established.
But Adair and Condie discovered multiple gaps in the collective memory of pageant and church leaders and decided a meticulously documented history was in order.
They interviewed more than 50 principals in past pageants – such as directors, men who played Jesus, pageant presidents, crew members and costume designers – and sifted through a variety of documents to achieve that goal.
“We also had hundreds of photos,” said. Adair, whose husband, Scott, took many of the photos over the years. “We said we could do 10 volumes, so we included as much as we could, particularly the photos, to make it more than just a historical book.”
Added Condie: “To take 80 years of history and boil it down would be a challenge under any circumstances. But in this case, you add the hundreds of individual stories from a cast of nearly 500 and a crew of almost that many every year and you start to see the magnitude of what it would take to put it together.”
The two women struggled to decide on the best way to present all the information they had acquired, finally opting for a chronological approach.
Among the interviews – which will be donated as oral histories along with a profusion of all kinds of memorabilia to the Mesa Public Library and the Church Historical Museum in Salt Lake City – is a chat with the oldest person they could find with a connection to the pageant.
He is Grant Gunnell of Mesa, who sang at the sunrise service when he was a senior at Mesa High School in 1944.
Through a painstaking review of microfilmed editions of the Mesa Tribune for 80 years – “We found at least something published about the event from every year,” Adair said – the two women also clear up some historical ambiguities and misconceptions about the pageant.
They found that the pageant has been held every year between 1938 and 2018 except for 1975 – the year the Mesa Temple held an extended open house prior to its rededication after its first major renovation –and became an evening event in 1977.
Prior to embarking on their project, Adair said she and Condie discovered in conversations with former pageant leaders that they didn’t know answers to some basic questions.
“Cecily and I would look at each other and say, ‘Someone should document the history of the pageant before it’s lost,’” Adair recalled.
“As we uncovered the vast number of articles written in the Tribune and other newspapers, found personal mementoes
and letters, and then interviewed individuals who had made contributions over the years, we were able to collect and to verify facts and to even sort out some of the mistaken ideas about the pageant that had been passed down over the years,” Condie said, adding:
“The result is not only a clear history of the growth of the annual Easter celebration, it is also a chronicle of what the event has meant to those who have participated and attended and, also, how it has impacted the community as a whole over the past 80 years.”
“From the time I first worked as the communications director,” Adair said, “I wondered about the beginnings of the pageant and was inspired by the stories I heard of people sharing their talents and time to be involved in this event. From my earliest involvement with the pageant, I have been impressed with the way that people sacrifice and donate their time and resources to join in sharing the story of Jesus Christ in this way. It’s a unique and very beautiful and touching experience for the cast and crew and one that causes the audience to reflect on the meaning of
Easter and of Christ’s mission and life as well.”
Both women, mothers of now-adult children, have been in past pageants, as have some of their immediate family. They are happy with the outcome of their labor, crediting book designer Thompson with making the book “visually beautiful with her careful placement of photos, text and decorative touches,” Adair said.
“It was one of our goals to make the book beautiful because the pageant is so visually beautiful and we wanted to represent that with our book,” Adair added.
Condie, the author of a children’s book titled “If I Made A Bug,” feels the book “will mean a lot to those who want to reminisce about their own pageant experience, but, also to anyone who wants to know more about Mesa’s history or about the sharing of the story of Jesus the Christ in this way. “
The book is published by Condie’s Inglestone Publishing and available at inglestonepublishing.com and amazon.com. More information about it is at mesaeasterpageantbook.com.
The book is filled with photos from eight decades of Easter pageants at the Mesa Arizona Temple. (Special to AFN)
Americans can fi nally grow hair so thick “It will cover up your bald spots,” says top US Doctor
Clinical trials show a new hair loss breakthrough can both help men and women naturally regrow a thick, full head of hair – without drugs, surgery, or side effects
Thousands are rushing to get a new hair restoration method based on surprising new studies from the University of California.
It is the world’s first and only hair loss solution that revives dead hair follicles. And studies confirm it helps men and women regrow a thick, full head of hair, even after years of balding.
Now, with news of this breakthrough spreading like wildfire — the manufacturers are struggling to keep up with overwhelming demand.
That’s because, unlike other methods, it is prescription-free, drug-free, and has no side effects. And while hair transplants can cost $4,000 or more, this new approach costs pennies on the dollar and doesn’t involve going to the doctor’s office.
Instead, it leverages cuttingedge technology to prevent hair loss, fill-in embarrassing bald spots, and renourish thinning hair — with results you can see and feel in 30 days or less.
As Jeanne F. from San Diego, CA reports: “When my husband began to use this product, all he had on top of his head was fuzz. His hair began to grow after 30 days and now it is about 2 to 3 inches long!”
Surprising Truth About Hair Loss
It is commonly believed that hair loss is hereditary.
Unfortunately, most people think there is nothing they can do to stop it. However, while many doctors will tell you that thinning
hair, a receding hairline, and bald spots are due to your genetics, this is not the whole story.
“While genetics play a role, it’s not the main reason you lose hair,” says Dr. Al Sears, the nation’s top anti-aging doctor. “And surprisingly it’s not just your age, thyroid, hormones, stress, or a vitamin deficiency, either.”
The latest scientific research reveals that hair loss is primarily caused by the stem cells in your hair follicles dying.
“This discovery is a true breakthrough because by reviving these stem cells on your scalp, you can stop hair loss dead in its tracks and trigger new hair growth, even in areas that have been thinning for years,” explains Dr. Sears.
Now, at his world-famous clinic, the Sears Institute for AntiAging Medicine in Palm Beach, Florida, Dr. Sears and his team have used this game-changing discovery to develop a brandnew hair restoration formula that is taking the country by storm.
Sold under the name ReNourish, it is flying off the shelves with men and women of all ages raving about the results it delivers.
“I have seen a significant improvement in hair growth. Previously, you could see thinning areas at the back of my head and now hair has grown over it,” says Peter W. from Ontario, Canada
And Susan D. from Fort Pierce, Florida reports, “My hair was thinning. So, I began to use ReNourish every day on the front part of my scalp. Now I have thicker hair.”
Regrows Hair In Just 30 Days
Scientists now know that stem cells are the lifeblood of your hair follicles.
Research from the University of California shows they’re the reason you’re able to grow hair. However, these stem cells aren’t always active. In fact, studies reveal they’re only active during certain phases of the hair growth cycle.
“Your hair grows in three phases,” explains Dr. Sears. “First, you have the anagen phase, the hair growing phase. Then the catagen phase, when hair gets ready to shed. And finally, the telogen phase, where your hair is pushed from the follicle and falls out.”
As you get older it becomes harder for your hair follicles to complete this three-phase cycle. The results? Your hairs get stuck in the telogen phase. This is when they start falling out and stop regrowing, no matter what you try.
This process doesn’t happen overnight, says Dr. Sears.
“At first, your hair dries out, becoming brittle, thin, and harder to style. Then, you start finding hairs on your pillow and down the drain. Finally, you’re left with bald spots that age you prematurely.”
Fortunately, Re-Nourish puts a stop to this. It revives the dead stem cells in your hair follicles and reactivates your hair’s three-phase cycle, triggering new growth in as little as 30 days — even in areas that’ve been balding for years.
Reawakens Dead Hair Follicles
For years, scientists couldn’t figure out why hair follicle stem cells died.
However, a study from the University of California finally found the answer., It has to do with T-cells — an important immune cell in your body. The researchers discovered these T-cells are the only way to command hair follicles to grow new hair.
Breakthrough research proves this discovery helps fill-in bald spots, re-nournishes thinning hair, and leads to noticeable growth in as little as 30 days.
More importantly, they showed that T-cells helped revive the stem cells in your hair follicles — spurring new growth, filling in bald spots and natural hairline.
Re-Nourish uses a unique blend of all-natural ingredients. By spraying it on your hair once per day, scientific studies show you can revive dead stem cells and improve the appearance of thicker, fuller hair.
For example, the key nutrient of Re-Nourish was tested on a group of severely balding women.
After 6 months, nearly 70% of the women saw significant improvement in hair growth. Their hair was noticeably fuller, thicker, and healthier looking. Most exciting of all, they grew new hair on parts of their scalp that had been bald for years.
In another study, Italian researchers gathered a group of both men and women with thinning hair and applied the core ingredient of Re-Nourish. After 12 weeks, they reported a staggering 74% increase in hair growth.
“It’s really mind-boggling that my hair started growing back,” says Zan R., another Re-Nourish customer.
With results like this, it’s no surprise that demand for Re-Nourish is soaring. Thousands of men and women are scrambling to get their hands on the limited-supply available.
Re-Nourish is not currently available in any store at any price. But we’ve secured a small batch for our readers.
Try Re-Nourish 100% Risk-Free
For the next 48-hours, Dr. Sears is offering readers a riskfree trial of Re-Nourish
Dr. Sears feels so strongly about this product that he is backing every order with a riskfree, 100% money-back guarantee. To take advantage of this special offer, simply call the Sears Toll-Free Health Hotline at 1-800607-2276 now. Use Promo Code NP0322RN146 when you call in.
[EDITOR’S NOTE]: Due to recent media exposure for Re-Nourish, the Sears Institute for Anti-Aging Medicine is experiencing unprecedented demand. If the phone line is busy when you call, please try again to avoid missing this special one-time-only offer.
Emil Slovak,
GET THE JOB
Asking Your Own Questions
It’s tempting to spend so much time prepping for questions which you may be asked in a job interview that you forget to ask your own.
Employers are likely to make a series of tried-and-true queries to any potential job candidate: Why should we decide to hire you today? What unique experience do you bring to the table? What are your strengths as an employee – and your weaknesses?
Of course, resumes should answer these questions, but hiring managers are not looking for facts and figures so much as how you present yourself in an interview setting. In other words, are you boastful or more of a leader, are you nervous in person or confident in your abilities?
Asking the right questions, however, can bolster your candidacy as surely as any great answer. Here’s how achieve the perfect give and take:
WHAT TO SAY
Try to frame your questions such that you’re also looking forward to long-range goals, and future career prospects. It’s easy to focus on the immediate things that need to be addressed, to the exclusion of biggerpicture projects that will ensure a lengthy tenure with your new employer. What sort of budget will you be working with, and is that set in stone? What training programs are available for professional development? What have prior hires done to be successful, and what promotion opportunities did they earn?
Also, don’t forget to find out more about how you came to be sitting across from the hiring manager at this company. Don’t simply ask what experience is
required. Ask what types of skills are missing on the current team that the new hire will be expected to possess. What’s the biggest challenge that someone in this position typically faces? Will the principal responsibilities evolve?
TIMING YOUR QUESTIONS
Posing a smart question shows that you’ve done your homework. Researching the company shows initiative, a genuine passion for their mission, and a flair for analytical thinking that is required for any leadership position.
talk over the hiring manager, it could be for naught. Your questions should also arrive within the natural flow of conversation, so that they do not sound rehearsed.
But remember that timing is important, too. You can do all the right research, and even prepare the perfect query, but if you interrupt or
At the same time, don’t wait until the end of the interview, where candidates are typically asked if they have any questions to add. Their minds may be made up by then.
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Now Hiring in Mesa!
We are hiring immediately for all skilled operator positions to be part of building our new, state of the art micro mill from the ground up.
Ready for a challenge? We also have current openings for our Modern Steelmaker Program, a 12-month rotational technical training program that teaches you everything you need to know about sustainable steelmaking.
If you’re ready to grow in your career, you’re ready to join CMC. Visit us online to apply today!
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EVERYBODY GRAB A FUTURE
Team Member Full and Part Time
Peter Piper Pizza’s commitment to outstanding service starts with our employees.
• Competitive benefits and rewards
• Day, Evenings, Night positions
• Flexible Management hours - go to school and work full-time
• Opportunities for growth - we promote from within
• Early paycheck access
Hiring: POOL MONITORS
Must be able to work mid-May thru midSeptember 2022, Mon-Fri and/or Sat-Sun Hours from either 9am to 3pm, or 3pm to 9pm. Shifts may vary, Uniform provided Must be 18 years or older & drug free Basic CPR & First Aid Training provided Contact MPRHOA for application, 15425 S 40th Place #4 480-704-5000
(West of Fire Station & North off Chandler Blvd near 40 h Street )
NOTICE TO READERS:
Most service advertisers have an ROC# or “Not a licensed contractor” in their ad, this is in accordance to the AZ state law.
Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC): The advertising requirements of the statute does not prevent anyone from placing an ad in the yellow pages, on business cards, or on flyers.
What it does require under
- Sr Software Test Engineer (781 586) Write &
core-lending platforms that service commercial loans p r o v id ed acr o s s th e in n o v atio n eco n o my M ay teleco mmu te
- Sr. Manager, IT (781.572) Responsible for the development activities related to bank’s data & analyti c s p r o g r a m 1 0 % d o m e s t i c t r a v e l r e q u
- Sr Software Engineer (781 446) Design & develop technical solutions that meet user needs such as functionality, performance, scalability, & reliability
- Sr Software Engineer (781 454) Design, test, & dev
- Sr Software Engineer (781 530) Design each piece
pieces will work together, evaluating & recommending software upgrades for existing programs & systems May telecommute
A.R.S. §32-1121A14(c) www.azleg.gov/ars/ 32/01165.htm is that the advertising party, if not properly licensed as a contractor, disclose that fact on any form of advertising to the public by including the words “not a licensed contractor” in the advertisement.
Again, this requirement is intended to make sure that the consumer is made aware of the unlicensed status of the individual or company.
Contractors who advertise and do not disclose their unlicensed status are not eligible for the handyman’s exception.
Reference: http://www.azroc.g ov/invest/licensed_ by_law.html
As a consumer, being aware of the law is for your protection. You can check a businesses ROC status at: http://www.azroc.gov.
Ste 100, Tempe, AZ 85281 Must reference title and job#
Healthy Smiles is a fun General Dental Practice in Ahwatukee. The Doctor and team take pride in our work ethics, working together in a kind and caring environment.
We are looking for a Dental Assistant that is self motivated, punctual, enjoys talking with patients.
Duties involve procedures that include removing teeth, root canals, implants, making temporary crowns, scan teeth with digital software, Greeting patients, preparing patients for treatment, discussing treatment, using Dentrix software to treatment plan schedule appointments, order supplies, maintain office inventory, take x-rays.
Benefits: Dental, Vacation pay, Sick pay, 401(k) matching.
Pay range based on skills, $20 - 25 per hour
Apply today for this great opportunity, to learn and grow with our team.
Maggie Spira
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t a i n e d h e r d e g r e e i n i n t e r i o r d e s i g n
S h e m o v e d t o A r i z o n a i n 1 9 8 9 t o c a r e f o r
h e r p a r e n t s i n G r e e n V a l l e y a n d t h e n i n 2 0 1 2
m o v e d t o A h w a t u k e e t o b
saying a negative word. The world is dimmer w i t h
be held for friends and family on a date to be determined
Need help writing an obituary?
We have articles that will help guide you through the process.
Deadline for obituaries is Friday at 5pm for Wednesday. All obituaries will be approved by our staff prior to being activated. Be aware there may be early deadlines around holidays. Call 480-898-6465 Mon-Fri 8:30-5 if you have questions. Visit: obituaries.Ahwatukee.com
Arizona’s Resort-St yl e Home Builder
MASTER PLANNED CELEBRATED COMMUNITIES BY BLANDFORD HOMES
Award-winning Arizona builder for over 40 years.
Blandford Homes specializes in building master planned environments with a variety of amenities, parks, and charm. You’ll find the perfect community to fit your lifestyle.
A STRATFORD NOW SELLING
A Dramatic New Gated Community in Gilbert
Vintage Collection • From the low $600’s • 480-895-2800
Craftsman Collection • From the mid $700’s • 480-988-2400
B PALMA BRISA – In Ahwatukee Foothills NOW SELLING
A Dramatic New Gated Community
Vintage Collection • From the high $600’s • 480-641-1800 Craftsman Collection • From the low $800’s • 480-641-1800
C BELMONT AT SOMERSET – Prime Gilbert Location CLOSEOUT
Luxury estate homes and timeless architecture • From the low $1,000,000’s • 480-895-6300
D MONTELUNA – Brand New Gated Community in the Foothills of Northeast Mesa NOW SELLING McKellips Rd just east of the Red Mountain 202 Fwy • From the low $700’s
E RESERVE AT RED ROCK – New Upscale Resort Community in the Foothills of Northeast Mesa COMING IN 2022
Stunning views of Red Mountain • From the $600’s
F TALINN AT DESERT RIDGE – SALES BEGIN EARLY IN 2022
Spectacular location at Desert Ridge
G ESTATES AT MANDARIN GROVE – In the Citrus Groves of NE Mesa CLOSEOUT
11 luxury single-level estate homes with 3- to 6-car garages plus optional RV garages and carriage houses • From the mid $1,000,000’s • 480-750-3000
H ESTATES AT HERMOSA RANCH – In the Citrus Groves of NE Mesa CLOSEOUT
12 single-level homes on extra large homesites with 5- to 6-car garages plus optional RV garages and carriage houses • From the mid $1,000,000’s • 480-750-3000
