WEDNESDAY, MAY 11, 2016
Today: High 95, Low 67, Sunny
Tomorrow: High 102, Low 70, Sunny
REAL ESTATE
From Ahwatukee’s luxury market to the American Dream. pRE1 COMMUNITY:
Aqua-Tots opens
Teaches swimming, safety tips in Ahwatukee. p8
Mason
Mixes solo hits, Traffic songs in opening act. p24 SPORTS: Overflowing emotion
Toney, MP’s Smith lead state track. p30
By Jamie Leland AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
Only 20 high school seniors out of 791 applicants in Arizona received the Flinn scholarship this year. Kara Dunn, a senior at Horizon Honors High School in Ahwatukee, is one of them — and she is the school’s first student to receive the honor.
Flinn scholars are among the highest academic performers. To qualify for the scholarship, they must earn a minimum 3.5 GPA, score at least 1300 on the SAT or 29 on the ACT and rank in the top
5 percent of their classes. On top of that, they must demonstrate leadership in extracurricular activities.
In return, they receive full tuition to a state university, a study abroad experience in China, funding for at least one additional study abroad program, an off-campus internship and mentorship from university faculty. They are also enrolled in an honors college and will enjoy support from a community of fellow Flinn scholars.
Dunn decided to transfer to Horizon, a public charter school, as a sophomore after noticing the
diminishing honors and AP programs offered at Marcos de Niza High School. She left longtime friends behind for a more challenging curriculum.
“I knew it would be best for my education and that’s what counts in the long run,” she said.
“It helped me to really shape myself and rely on myself because switching schools and having all new friends. I realized that it’s not where you’re at, but it’s who you are and how much drive you have that gets you to succeed.”
By Katie Beeso AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
After their son Liam was born in 2009, Ross and Daradee Murray of Ahwatukee discovered he had a rare congenital heart defect. Initially, they began a blog to keep friends and family informed of their situation. When a couple thousand viewers began to follow, they began to pursue it further.
“There was one day where we had a setback and there was an overwhelming amount of support from the website,” Ross said.
After 26 days, several surgeries, and a lot of ups and downs, Liam Ross Murray passed away on Feb. 2 of that year.
Liam’s passing prompted Ross and Daradee to do something in honor of their son. They were inspired to change their lifestyle.
“Before Liam was born we weren’t the pillar of health. We shifted our course and changed our lives to be healthy people,” said Ross. Not only did they begin to eat healthier, but they also started running marathons such as Iron Man and the Boston Marathon. Now they own Hub Fitness in Ahwatukee, 4425 E. Agave Road.
Along with their lifestyle change, these two entrepreneurs decided to go further with their website by starting a foundation called LoveIAM. “LoveIAM kind of sounds like Liam so we liked that. We didn’t initially have intentions
The Ahwatukee Foothills News is published every Wednesday and distributed free of charge to homes and in single-copy locations throughout Ahwatukee Foothills. To find out where you can pick up a free copy, visit www.ahwatukee.com.
Ahwatukee office: 10631 S. 51st St., Suite 1, Phoenix, AZ, 85044
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The Ahwatukee Recreation Center (ARC) recently organized its eighth Support the Troops packaging event, which they host twice a year (in April and in November) to send care packages to our service men and women overseas.
Since October 2008 the ARC has sent 1,750 boxes.
Local businesses and the generosity of the ARC members make this event successful.
Five Ahwatukee teens — Carmela Chaney, Ana Coker, Emily Hartzler, Joelle Johnson and Claire O’Brien — all recently took home the highest award in Girl Scouting: the Gold Award.
“One of the most impactful parts of Girl Scouting is earning the Girl Scout Gold Award,” said Tamara Woodbury, CEO of Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council. “This prestigious award represents the highest achievement in Girl Scouting and challenges girls ages 14–17 to initiate meaningful, sustainable change locally, nationally, or globally through unique ‘Take Action’ projects of their own creation.”
According to Woodbury, 2016 is special as the Girl Scouts are celebrating the milestone 100th anniversary of the Gold Award. Earning the Gold Award is somewhat comparable to the Boy Scouts’ Eagle Scout. While both achievements require developing and completing a service project, Girl Scouts must create a project that is sustainable and continues to give back to the community long after she moves on. Overall, the process usually takes 18 to 24 months and often involves seeking in-kind donations and recruiting volunteers.
Others recognize the value of the Gold Award, too. Some universities and colleges offer scholarships to award recipients and girls who enlist in the U.S. armed forces may receive advanced rank in recognition of their achievements.
“Empowering girls to lead is one of the greatest investments we can make,” said Woodbury. “When women adopt leadership roles, they contribute a unique set of skills, ideas and life experiences that enrich and strengthen communities. Girl Scouts, and the Gold Award specifically, gives girls the support and guidance they need as they step into impactful leadership roles.”
For many of these girls, this award is the culmination of more than 10 years in the Girl Scouts.
— Contact Kelly Mixer, 480-898-7913 or kmixer@ahwatukee.com.
—
WEDNESDAY, MAY 11
Foothills Women’s Club’s last annual gathering. Includes a silent auction for Child Crisis Center, light food and drinks.
DETAILS>> 7 p.m., Foothills Golf Club, 2201 E. Clubhouse Drive. Call 480-235-9909.
A short talk on Montessori education will be given, followed by a tour of the facility.
DETAILS>> Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori, 3221 E. Chandler Blvd., at 4 p.m. on May 11 and 25. For more information, call 480-759-3810.
SATURDAY, MAY 14
The Ahwatukee Lifetime Eye Care has expanded and remodeled for this grand re-opening celebration with a sunglass sale, food, drink and raffle prizes in a luau theme.
DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Lifetime Eye Care, 3961 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 106. Call 480-706-3060 or visit azlifetime.com.
MONDAY, MAY 16
YMCA’s Outreach Programs for Ahwatukee Seniors (Y OPAS) has asked Valley Transit to present a short program to seniors in Ahwatukee who would be interested in using Valley Transit. Many seniors are apprehensive about riding a bus. Where do they get on? How do they find a map? What is the cost?
DETAILS>> 10 a.m. to Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. They are also going to explain Dial-A-Ride and how to use it.
TUESDAY, MAY 17
Hawthorn Court, an award-winning memory care community in Ahwatukee, is hosting a free memory screening event, open to the public. This free 10-minute memory screening can be the first step toward early identification of potential memory problems.
DETAILS>> 9-11 a.m. Hawthorn Court, 13822 S. 46th Place. RSVP to 480-455-6497 or email RSVP@ HawthornCourt.com.
United Blood Services’ public blood drive in Ahwatukee. DETAILS>> 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Charles Schwab & Co Inc, 4750 E. Francisco Drive and 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Horizon Honors High School gym, 16233 S. 48th St.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 18
Speakers this month are Corporation Commission candidates Bill Mundell and Tom Chabin and County Recorder candidate Adrian Fontes. Democrats and Donuts is a monthly gathering sponsored by the Legislative District 18 Democrats that focuses on candidates and current issues.
DETAILS>> 8-9:30 a.m., third Wednesday of each month, Denny’s Restaurant, 7400 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler. For more information, contact Marie Colangelo at mariec9@q.com or 480-592-0052.
THURSDAY, MAY 19
A round table forum featuring State Rep. Jill Norgaard, Sen. Alex Melusky, Sen. Clare VanSteenwyck, Maricopa County School Superintendent Jana Jackson and Rep. Dave Giles.
DETAILS>> General meeting from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel, 5121 E. LaPuenta Ave. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Open to the public. For additional information, email info@tukeeparty.com.
FRIDAY, MAY 20
Steve Welker and Dr. Kristina Welker will present their new book, “Radical Resiliency,” on how to build radical resiliency and overcome any obstacle. They both survived a near-fatal auto accident that left Steve blind.
DETAILS>> 7 p.m. Changing Hands Tempe, 6428 S. McClintock Drive. For more information, call 480-7300205 or visit inbox@changinghands.com.
SUNDAY, MAY, 22
United Blood Services’ public blood drive in Ahwatukee. DETAILS>> 8 a.m.-1 p.m., St. Benedict Catholic Church, 16223 S. 48th St.
MONDAY, MAY 23
A free educational seminar designed to help you better understand your rights, options and entitlements when it comes to Medicare. Appetizers will be served with refreshments.
DETAILS>> 5:30 p.m., Ahwatukee Mellow Mushroom, 14205 S. 50th St. RSVP and direct questions to Todd Walker, at 602-722-9325, or Sylvia Cleland, at 623-703-1485.
TUESDAY, MAY 24
Guest speakers: Maricopa County Attorney Bill Montgomery and Jana Jackson, GOP candidate for Maricopa County School Superintendent. Additional candidates and officials to be in attendance. The Marjorie Miner Scholarship to be awarded. DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. social networking, 7-8:30 p.m. meeting/program at Four Points Sheraton, 10831 S. 51st St. For more information, email ARWomen@aol.com or visit ahwatukeerepublicanwomen.com.
A free educational seminar designed to help you better understand your rights, options and entitlements when it comes to Medicare. Appetizers will be served with refreshments.
DETAILS>> 5:30 p.m., Ahwatukee Mellow Mushroom, 14205 S. 50th St. RSVP and direct questions to Todd Walker, at 602-722-9325, or Sylvia Cleland, at 623-703-1485.
TUESDAY, MAY 31
“Trip Around the World” weekly camps will take boys and girls ages 18 months through 6 years on a magical vacation to experience the music, art, language, food, crafts and nature of nine different countries. The
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and Federal Highway Administration (FHA) have asked a federal judge to dismiss lawsuits challenging the South Mountain Freeway.
ADOT and the FHA are scheduled to present oral arguments on Wednesday, May 11 ,in U.S. District Court in Phoenix as a judge considers motions for summary judgment in the case.
In their motion filed April 25, the agencies note that Maricopa County voters twice approved building the South Mountain Freeway, most recently in 2004 through Proposition 400, which authorized the comprehensive, multimodal Regional Transportation Plan. They note the current and anticipated congestion on freeways and roads in one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions, especially Interstate 10 through downtown Phoenix, and how a new freeway corridor will improve how people and goods get around.
ADOT and the FHA completed a 13-year analysis, taking into account thousands of formal comments from community members, according to the motion. That includes developing a comprehensive Environmen-
tal Impact Statement that complies with federal law and follows best practices for transportation projects.
“The need for the South Mountain Freeway is clear, and Valley voters have realized this for more than 30 years. While there is no ‘perfect’ freeway project, ADOT and the Federal Highway Administration have worked to study the likely impacts of this project and designed ways to minimize those impacts, just as we have done for decades throughout the Valley as the freeway system was developed,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said. “You only need to travel through the Broadway Curve on I-10 during rush hour to see the problem — Phoenix today doesn’t have the highway capacity to meet traffic demand. The South Mountain Freeway will better meet today’s traffic needs, while supporting better mobility in the future.”
The 22-mile freeway, expected to open in late 2019, will provide a long-planned direct link between the East Valley and West Valley, and will complete the Loop 202 and Loop 101 systems.
In February, ADOT finalized the state’s first highway public-private partnership agreement through which the project team, Connect 202 Partners, will build the freeway at a taxpayer savings of more than $100 million and will open it to traffic three years
sooner than originally projected. The fixed $916 million contract for design and construction makes this the largest highway project in state history. The development team will be responsible for 30 years of maintenance following the completion of the project, supporting construction with innovation and built-in cost efficiencies for the long term.
With construction scheduled to begin this summer, ADOT is conducting preliminary engineering, addressing cultural resources in the right of way, acquiring and preparing properties, and relocating utilities. ADOT received final federal clearance to move forward with the project in spring 2015.
For more information, visit azdot.gov/ SouthMountainFreeway.
Rosewood Homes recently began construction of model homes at its new Rosewood Canyon Estates neighborhood in the Ahwatukee Foothills. However, Rosewood officials said demand has been so strong that they began sales effort by conducting a “lottery” for its nine-home Phase 1. The first few homes are now under contract while appointments are scheduled for the remaining
homes in Phase 1. Rosewood expects to begin construction of Phase 1 homes in June with the first move-ins estimated to be early 2017. Model grand opening is scheduled for this summer. Phase 2 is expected to be released for sale in June.
Rosewood Canyon Estates is an upscale 40-home, gated neighborhood that Rosewood created on property purchased from the Kyrene Unified School District. This approximately 11-acre parcel abuts the 16,000acre South Mountain Park Preserve in Ahwatukee Foothills. Officials said Rosewood Canyon Estates has been designed to maximize privacy and mountain views with homes backing to open space. A mix of single-story and two-story homes range in size from 2,268 to 3,539 square feet with base prices starting in the $400’s.
For more information about Rosewood Homes go to www.RosewoodHomes.com. For more information on Rosewood Canyon Estates, visit www.RosewoodCanyonEstates.com.
Associates with Keller Williams Sonoran Living in Ahwatukee have chosen to “Give
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Refinance
Programs
borrowers. Programs subject to change without notice. Underwriting
and conditions apply. Some restrictions may apply.
Where They Live” as part of RED Day, the company’s annual day of service, dedicated to renewing, energizing and donating to their local communities. During RED Day, Keller Williams Sonoran Living associates will collect food at three Safeways in Ahwatukee on Thursday, May 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Desert Foothills Parkway and Chandler Boulevard, 40th Street and Chandler Boulevard, and 48th Street and Elliot Road.
Donations will be accepted through 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 11 at: The Kyrene Foundation, 1330 E. Dava Drive, Tempe; Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, 1030 E. Liberty Lane; and Keller Williams Realty, Sonoran Living, 15905 S. 46th St.
The Kyrene Foundation’s mission is to remove barriers to learning so that all students have the opportunity to excel in school.
“RED Day is built on the belief that people can and should come together to achieve extraordinary things to help others,” said team leader John Hrimnak. “Last year, we collected enough food to feed 400 families in our communities for two months. We can’t tell you what an impact it made on each of us personally. We all know that filling all the gaps in our communities can’t be accomplished by serving just once a year. RED Day just happens to be the one-day expression of the constant state of the Keller Williams culture. We see a need, discover who can meet it and get it done.”
“The Keller Williams RED Day provides enormous relief to the Kyrene Family Resource Center. RED Day donations help us feed children in need during our limited summer hours and then more significantly help us be ready for the start of the school year,” said Amanda Nosbisch, program manager, Kyrene School District. “The Keller Williams RED Day food drive sustains us, making it possible for us to serve 400 families and get children ready for school. We are so appreciative of businesses like Keller Williams who dedicate time and energy to supporting Kyrene kids in need, removing hunger as a barrier to learning so that all students can succeed.”
Since the first RED Day in 2009, Keller Williams associates have given hundreds of thousands of hours of community service through activities ranging from food and blood drives to rebuilding homes and schools for community members in need.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has designated Horizon Honors Elementary School and Horizon Secondary School “No Place for Hate” schools. The schools are recognized for creating safe and respectful learning environments, bringing awareness to the issues of bullying and bias throughout the 2015-2016 school year. This is the second year Horizon Honors Elementary School has received the designation, and the third year of designation for Horizon Honors Secondary School.
No Place For Hate, an ADL initiative offering students, teachers, administrators and family members the opportunity to work together to enhance a culture of respect in the school community, encourages schools to complete various activities and projects to promote unity and reduce bullying, name-calling and other expressions of bias.
“The sheer enthusiasm for this initiative from the students and teachers demonstrates its need and the potential for positive impact on their learning environment,” said Miriam Weisman, ADL Arizona education committee chair.
Throughout the month of May, each designated school will host its own ceremonies which will honor student, staff and community efforts by presenting a personalized No Place for Hate banner from ADL.
Horizon Honors Elementary School and Horizon Honors Secondary School are part of Horizon Community Learning Center (HCLC), an organization of tuition-free, public, charter schools which provide continuous learning, K-12. Both schools are rated “A” schools by the Arizona Department of
News, ideas and opinions on what’s important to Ahwatukee
By Daniel Ochoa AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
May is National Water Safety Month and time for the May 2 opening of Aqua-Tots Swim Schools in Ahwatukee.
The school teaches the importance of swimming and pool safety, just in time for the summer heat.
Swimming lessons at Aqua-Tots are broken into eight levels depending on experience and age. Swimmers can be anywhere from 4 months to 12 years old. Each swimming level has its own specific lesson such as equipping parents with information on how to be confident with handling their children in the pool and developing students to become better swimmers. Each class is 30 minutes long.
Aqua-Tots also offers a Swim Club and Swim Teams for those interested in a more competitive swimming experience.
“Our No. 1 goal is safety first,” said Keri Priest, general manager of Aqua-Tots Ahwatukee. “Once the swimming lessons are over, our instructors take a few minutes with each student and parent to let them know what’s going great in the water and what needs to be improved.”
Students are given a weekly report card to track their performance throughout each swim session.
Lessons are taught in either a private or group setting. Each class has one to four students in the water at a time.
Parents are given the option to be inside the pool with their children during the swimming lessons, or spectate in Aqua-Tots’ lobby area.
Classes can be taken once or three times a week.
“A lot of our families start at the beginning levels, and it’s where they develop the build-
ing blocks they need to continue to progress up to the more advance levels,” Priest said.
A key element provided at Aqua-Tots is ensuring parents and children are aware of all safety precautions in and around the pool area.
Ahwatukee resident Amy Byers said she enrolled her son into Aqua-Tots so he could learn the importance of pool safety.
“I want him to learn the basics of swimming and how to be safe in the water,” she said. “I think water safety, especially in Arizona, is extremely important.”
Sarah Hoopes, swimming instructor at Aqua-Tots Ahwatukee, said consistent learning throughout each swimming level is vital to ensure students are safe.
“We work with them on getting comfortable with being in the water, their technique, and knowing all the boundaries around the pool,” she said. “We treat the pool as a very
dangerous area for children because it can be ... we like to treat it that way and have a respect for it.”
Hoopes said water safety for young children and adults is crucial in Arizona since there are many public and private pools around the Valley.
“It’s very important to at least teach kids the basics of swimming and safety,” she said. Priest said she anticipates classes will become more popular with summer around the corner.
“Our classes will continue to expand as we get busier,” she said.
Aqua-Tots Swim Schools in Ahwatukee is located at 4735 E. Ray Road, Suite A0011. For additional information, visit www.aqua-tots.com. — Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and follow AhwatukeeFN on Twitter.
Blossom’s single cat rescuer and foster has a dozen kittens and works all the time, with little time to give her the attention she would love. One of the male fosters chases Blossom around so she spends her time on top of the kitchen cabinets where she feels safe, surveying the room below. From her perch, Blossom begs for treats and jumps down to be petted and fed. If you can provide a loving foster or permanent home email cactuscats@ cox.net or call 480-628-6226 for details. Cactus Cats Rescue is at the Ahwatukee Petco, 5011 E. Ray Road, every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with kittens and cats that are tested, fixed and have their shots. For more information, visit Petfinder.com/ cactuscatsrescue.
Anubis, a gorgeous 1-year-old Russian Blue mix, was rescued along with his other siblings. He is extremely friendly and enjoys playing with toys, especially the feathered kind. Anubis really likes to sit on a cat tree and watch birds outside. He is good with other cats and maybe dogs. If interested in Anubis, contact Lost Our Home Pet Foundation at 480-540-9322 to arrange a meet-and-greet at the Tempe PetSmart, 1140 W. Elliot Road, in The Groves near Priest Road. See him and other adoptable cats and dogs with Lost Our Home Pet Foundation at www.LostOurHome.org. All cats are litter-box trained, spayed/neutered, tested for FELV/FIV, current on shots, and 24PetWatch microchipped.
Prince is an 8-year-old Belgian Sheepdog mix available for adoption at Arizona Animal Welfare League’s main adoption center, located at 25 N. 40th St. in Phoenix. Prince is very intelligent and highly treat motivated, so he would be an excellent candidate for further training. Prince has quite a bit of energy for an older dog, so he is looking for an active, loving family to call his own. After being brought to the shelter, AAWL’s medical staff discovered that Prince has the beginning signs of heart disease and renal disease, but the vets believe he may have many years to of life ahead of him to enjoy. We’ve decided to start a bucket list for Prince to ensure that every moment he has is filled with the joy all dogs deserve: Have the meal of a lifetime. Play fetch with a pro baseball player. Watch an Arizona sunset. But most importantly — find a family to love!
This little guy became homeless after his previous owner abandoned him and a relative worked to get this sweetie to a shelter so he could be adopted. Gee is a little guy, about 10 pounds and estimated to be about a year old. Being a dark-colored dog he seems to get overlooked in the shelter’s kennels so folks often just walk by him. Few stop to see how much personality he has and look into his cute little face. Best guess is he’s part Chihuahua and possibly part Pug — he has a curly tail like pugs have. This “Chug” is very playful and would love to have a family of his own. Gee is neutered, microchipped, licensed, and vaccinated. He has also been tested for heart worm (negative). Gee’s adoption fee is $150 and he currently calls Friends for Life’s adoption center in downtown Gilbert home.
If you’d like to meet Gee, contact Friends for Life at 480-497-8296 or visit www.azfriends.org
We came to Keystone for the authentic Montessori education. We fell in love with Keystone Montessori when we realized it was more than just a school, it was a community. - Parent Testimonial
>> From page 7
The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.
On Wednesday, May 12, Aesthetics Institute and Laser Sciences (AILS) is introducing its sister school; Clinical Aesthetics Institute Post-Graduate Training Centers, at a grand opening ceremony at the Equestrian Trail–Ahwatukee, 12020 S. Warner–Elliot Loop, Suites 124 and 117.
Listed for $249,900
Highly upgraded 1,716 sf, 2 bed/2 bathroom home on the golf course! Spectacular mountain views! NEW 4-ton 16
Open floor plan. Newer roof and AC unit.
“Aesthetic Institute and Laser Sciences is a licensed school by the Arizona State Board of Cosmetology for the advancement of Clinical Aesthetics Education. We are opening the state's first post-graduate training facility (non-product related) in Arizona to provide in-state seminars and workshops to aestheticians as continuum education courses normally provided in California, Nevada, New York, limiting the opportunity for these professionals to attend and further their education,” said Isabel Calleros,
director of education for AILS and founder of Clinical Aesthetics Institute.
All aestheticians, students, nurses and massage therapists interested in continuing their education in the clinical aesthetics field as well as the community are invited to the grand opening from noon to 4 p.m.
Maricopa Community College’s Governing Board voted to appoint Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick as chancellor. MCC officials said Harper-Marinick is the first female and first Latina ever appointed chancellor to a higher education institution in Arizona.
“A new era has come to Maricopa Community Colleges as we congratulate Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick on her new role as Chancellor,” said Alfredo Gutierrez, president of the governing board. “As the education landscape continues to evolve, Maria’s steady leadership, commitment to lifelong education and stellar reputation at both a local and national level will elevate Maricopa Community College’s standing as an institution dedicated to high achievement and successful student outcomes.”
With a career spanning nearly 25 years at Maricopa Community Colleges, Harp -
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Completely remodeled home in Arcadia Lite on approximately a ¼ acre lot with pebble tec diving pool! Nearly 2000 sf, 4 bedroom plus office area and 2.5 bathrooms. Custom-built cabinetry and quartz counter tops in kitchen and bathrooms. New flooring. New interior/exterior paint and stucco. Trendy, upgraded lights and fixtures throughout. Three car carport. Dual pane windows. Newer roof. COMING SOON!
The difference between ordinary and etxraordinary is that little extra!
er-Marinick has served in several top-level posts, including executive vice chancellor and provost, and interim chancellor. Taking the reins from the now-retired Chancellor Rufus Glasper, she will oversee system-wide operations, which serve 200,000 students and nearly 10,000 faculty and staff members across 10 colleges (Chandler-Gilbert, Estrella Mountain, GateWay, Glendale, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Rio Salado, Scottsdale, and South Mountain), a Corporate College, two skills centers (Maricopa Skill Center, Southwest Skill Center) and several satellite campuses and business/ industry, technical and customized training institutes.
The appointment of Harper-Marinick, a native of the Dominican Republic, caps an extensive search conducted by a specially appointed committee. The Search Committee, co-chaired by Arizona State University President Michael Crow and Maricopa Community Colleges Faculty Association President Salina Bednarek, considered a broad pool of candidates for the position.
Maricopa County residents donate $73K
toward schools’ extracurricular funds
Maricopa County taxpayers again responded to a call to action to assist local schools’ extracurricular funds, donating $73,000 through the county’s Tax Credit Portal.
For the second consecutive year, the city of Phoenix partnered with the Maricopa County Education Service Agency (MCESA) to create a Tax Credit Portal that would allow people to easily donate money to schools’ extracurricular funds and receive the proper form to pay that amount less on taxes through Arizona’s Education Tax Credit program. The portal also displayed which schools received the most money through tax credits previously and which had received the least in an effort to increase opportunities for all students. Phoenix and MCESA’s marketing campaign targeted those individuals who had not donated through the tax credit program before, so that additional money would be coming into the system, not diverted from one school to another.
The Tax Credit Portal collected a total of $73,021 while active this tax season between December 2015 and April 2016. Most donations went to districts within the greater Phoenix area. In the previous tax year, the Tax Credit Portal collected $32,000 in
>> See NEWS BRIEFS on page 17
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>> From page 5
“vacations” will begin with Australia (May 31-June 3), followed by Italy (June 6-10), Jamaica (June 13-17), Tahiti (June 20-24), Japan (June 27-July 1), Mexico (July 5-9) Russia (July 11-15), Scotland (July 18-22), and Hawaii (July 25-28).
Camps will be available for ages 18 through 36 months and for children ages 3-6 who are potty-trained. In addition to learning about other countries, the program will also offer Splash Time and other fun summer activities.
DETAILS>> Inspire Kids Montessori, 4025 E. Chandler Blvd., in the Trader Joe’s Plaza. Enrollment deadline is May 15. Half-day (8:30–11:30 a.m.), full day (8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.) and extended day (7:30 a.m.–5:45 p.m.) options will be available. For more information and to enroll, parents can call 480-659-9402 or email info@inspirekidsmontessori. com.
DivorceCare is a safe place for people struggling with divorce or separation.
DETAILS>> This 13-week course begins May 3, at 6:30 p.m., at Mountain Park Community Church, 2408 E. Pecos Road. Learn more and register at mountainpark.org.
The Phoenix Rescue Mission is accepting water, white socks, toiletries, cool snack packs, hats, light-colored T-shirts, sunglasses, sunscreen, Chapstick, chilly neck coolers, and monetary donations to help protect all Arizonans from heat related illness or death,
DETAILS>> 7-8:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at The Watershed, 5250 S. Lakeshore Drive, Tempe (outside on patio). Meetings are free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.ld18democrats. org/meetings or email ld18demsinfo@gmail.com.
HandsOn Greater Phoenix is getting ready to kick off a new project in partnership with Save the Family Foundation, an organization that serves homeless families throughout Maricopa County. HandsOn volunteers will be throwing monthly baby shower celebrations for new or expectant mothers, and HandsOn has begun collecting donations for this new project. Donations of wrapped baby gifts, party decorations and homemade or store-bought snacks are needed.
DETAILS>> All donations may be dropped off at the HandsOn Greater Phoenix office, 5151 N. 19th Ave, Suite 200, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. For more information, call 602-973-2212.
Families in Ahwatukee and the surrounding area can help with understanding the world beyond our borders by becoming involved in a global cultural exchange through the Aspect Foundation.
DETAILS>> Potential host families can choose their own student by viewing student profiles on Aspect Foundation’s website at www.AspectFoundation.org. For more information, contact Brynda Blowers at 480-4446192.
>> See CALENDAR on page 13
DETAILS>> 10-11:30 a.m. Ahwatukee Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the first Saturday of the month at Mountain View Lutheran Church, 11002 S. 48th St.
The Summer Arts Academy has introduced two new classes: a Mini Academy, and a Parent-tot class. The Mini Academy invites 3 to 5 year olds on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to come develop their bodies and brains with certified instructors. The Parent-tot class invites kiddos younger than three, alongside a parent or guardian, to develop mentally and physically through dance and the use of different props and instruments.
DETAILS>> May 25-June 13, June 14-June 30. Days and times vary. $40-$140. Register at the Desert Vista Front Office, 16440 S. 32nd St. For more information email summerartsacademydv@gmail.com.
MONDAY
Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce networking and leads group. Get involved and network. Open to chamber members and nonmembers.
DETAILS>> Noon every Monday, Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 140. Call Shannon Kinsman at 480-753-7676.
This group addresses the informational, emotional and social support needs of the MS community. People with MS, care partners and spouses are welcome to participate. The group mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS.
DETAILS>> 10 a.m.-noon, third Monday of each month, Dignity Health Urgent Care Ahwatukee, conference room, 4545 E. Chandler Blvd. Free. Contact Lynn Grant at lgrant3567@yahoo.com or 480-414-7172.
TUESDAY
DETAILS>> 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday each month for social networking, 7 p.m. meeting, Four Points by Sheraton Phoenix South Mountain, 10831 S. 51st St. For more information, contact Loraine at 480460-7101, email ARWomen@AOL.com or visit www. AhwatukeeRepublicWomen.com.
DETAILS>> 8-9 a.m. every Tuesday, Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce, 4435 E. Chandler Blvd., Suite 140. Contact Joseph Ortiz at 480-753-7664.
WEDNESDAY
Updates on county, state and federal issues.
DETAILS>> 6:30-8:30 p.m. third Wednesday of each month, Pecos Community Center, 17010 S. 48th St. For more information, email atpaz.org@gmail.com or visit www.TukeeTeaParty.com.
By Shelley Ridenour
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
The presidential race, foreign trade and national security highlighted a May 3 discussion by two members of Arizona’s congressional delegation.
that countries near Iran are preparing for the increased threat that Iran is expected to pose. Those countries are buying bombs for protection from Iran, she said.
“The continuing arms race creates unstable climates,” Sinema said. “As Iran gets money and power, there will be continued growth of terrorism.”
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Democratic U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema and Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Salmon were featured on a panel at the East Valley Partnership statespersons’ lunch in Mesa.
While most of their comments focused on the nation and world, Salmon did weigh in on education in Arizona.
He said it’s time for Arizona leaders “to get back in strong support for education.”
Salmon didn’t parse words.
Other big threats to the U.S., Salmon said, are North Korea and Russia.
North Korea continues to improve “miniaturizing” nuclear weapons. And sanctions taken against North Korea simply haven’t worked he said. His suggestion? Convince China to flex its muscles against North Korea.
Salmon favors the trans-Pacific trade agreement, calling it “the most important trade agreement we’ve ever had.”
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“Let’s stop treating our universities like unwanted stepchildren,” Salmon said. “They are wonderful, wonderful assets. If you want to talk about being better, we’ll never be there without funding the universities.”
Salmon restated his support for Proposition 123 on the ballot May 17. It would increase the distribution of money from the state land trust to education and other entities for 10 years. It would also end a lawsuit about education, but pay less than has been mandated by the courts.
It allows for more U.S.-made products to end up in new overseas markets, he said.
The U.S. now imports more goods than it exports, Sinema said, and she wants to see that status switched because it leaves the U.S. “in a weak position.”
Both Salmon and Sinema commented on the ongoing presidential campaign.
“This is the first election in my lifetime when national security has trumped pretty much everything else,” Salmon said. “No pun intended.
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Shifting to a national scope, Sinema said polls show national security is the No. 1 concern for Arizonans and a top concern for Americans.
She believes it’s a big issue because the administration doesn’t have an “effective strategy” to defeat ISIS. Sinema wants Congress to create a new strategy to do that and have the administration adopt it.
Ways to battle ISIS, she says, include closing the visa waiver loophole, reviewing social media accounts of visa applicants and strangling funding for ISIS.
“We’re using old-school strategies against a new-school threat,” Sinema said.
It seems the country can focus only on one big thing at a time, Salmon said, and now that’s ISIS.
But, he thinks Iran is a bigger threat to the U.S. Iran is “using its newfound money to conduct terrorism,” he said. “They are a frightening group of folks.”
Sinema spoke of the need to recognize
“This is truly the silly season,” he said. “It will be one of the oddest election years you’ll see in your life.”
Sinema said this election season is “the year of the middle-finger voter. People are sick of it and are not going to take it anymore and want to blow the whole thing up.”
She believes those “middle-finger voters” are mad “because no one is serving them.”
“People are hungry for candidates and office holders who solve problems, who are independent and don’t toe party lines,” she said.
“But, that could just be me hoping,” she added with a laugh.
– Contact Shelley Ridenour at 480-898-6533 or sridenour@timespublications.com.
– Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and follow AhwatukeeFN on Twitter.
>> From page 1
with LoveIAM. It was more of a belief and pay it forward type of thing,” Ross said.
The couple came across a foundation operated by Dan and Margaret Majetich, who lost both their children to a heart defect. Their foundation in honor of their kids, the Nick and Kelly Foundation, touched their hearts and really inspired them to start LoveIAM.
“After being at such a low point, LoveIAM for us was a way to pay back the people who saved us. We feel honored that we get to fund raise for their foundation. It’s kind of like passing the baton,” Ross said.
Sometimes starting something new can be difficult and you have to start somewhere. They started small by organizing together walks, making T-shirts and putting on small events. Due to the support they received, they threw their first official fundraiser in 2013.
In the past they were involved with a lot of charitable things with golf, but they wanted to have a fun event where people could eat, drink listen to music and still raise money for a cause that hit home.
Their fundraiser, the Heart and Soul Rock Party, is an event to raise money for the Nick and Kelly Foundation and its purpose is to raise money to send kids ages 7-17 with heart defects to a camp.
“So many of these kids have defects and they don’t have an outlet so they get to go to these camps and swim and do activities,” Daradee said.
Sometimes having challenges can make kids feel different or self concise, but their camp is designed to help them feel comfortable because they are around kids who understand what they are going through.
“The testimonials from the parents say that their kids are coming back completely changed,” Daradee said.
Though they don’t put on the camp, last year they decided to go visit and it left them completely blown away.
“The kids get so much out of it, and the volunteers get so much out of it too. There are a lot of volunteers such as doctors, nurses and medical professionals that dedicate their week to come help put on this camp,” Daradee said.
Though the camp (which is a traveling overnight camp) is fulfilling, many can’t afford the price, therefore, the Murrays have made it a point to help pay for the campers.
Last year they raised $40,000 through their fundraiser and paid for half the camp, but this year they want to raise enough to send all of the kids to camp.
In order to raise this money they have silent auction items and many businesses have helped out with gift cards and donations.
“Every year has been better than the year
before. I think people left the event and told their friends so it gets bigger and bigger,” Ross said.
Their Fourth Annual Heart and Soul Rock Party was May 5 at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn’s BLT Steak, 5402 E. Lincoln Drive in Scottsdale. All proceeds went to
the Nick and Kelly Foundation.
By Mayor Greg Stanton GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
My fifth State of the City Address was an opportunity to highlight our progress on increasing exports to Mexico, growing the city’s bioscience and innovation sectors and creating thousands of high-paying jobs. The results of our collective efforts show that Phoenix is truly leading the way on Arizona’s economic recovery.
Today, our city is stronger than ever before. Through wise investments and by working together, not only have we made our city strong, but we are making our state stronger.
We’ve done this by charting a bold course to create an economy focused on exports and rooted in innovation. And our efforts are paying off.
This year alone we’ve created 8,000 new quality jobs and our unemployment rate has dropped to 4.6 percent. That’s nearly a full point lower than the rest of the state and the lowest we’ve seen in Phoenix in eight years. These aren’t the only numbers that show-
Goose dinner or golden eggs?
Who really benefits from trust land sales — who is in favor of this fiscally irresponsible proposition? Follow the money.
Real estate brokers are all for it — surprise! At least 2 percent commission on this sale. You do the math.
Developers who can build more homes and shopping strips.
And how about the water rights from that land? I do not have answers, just a few questions.
Speaking of questions, a few pop up if one looks at the history of these sales. The figures are a matter of public record. Since these are all auctions, we should be able to rely on an open process to get us a good price. Really? The chart shows that there were multiple bids on only one parcel out of the group. Does not sound very free-market. And looking a bit deeper, we note a remarkable fact. We have geniuses making the
case our recent successes.
Since 2012, the Phoenix region has doubled exports to Mexico, a growing sector of our economy that supports more than 90,000 jobs throughout the state.
In the last five years, there has been more than $4 billion of investment in the city’s central core. Midtown’s commercial vacancy rate has dropped by nearly 50 percent in less than two years. By 2025, we expect the downtown biomedical campus will produce an economic impact of more than $3 billion every year — and that figure could go even higher. Phoenix attracted two new corporate headquarters over the last four months. And we’re diversifying our economy with 12,000 new tech jobs in just three years. I’d say these numbers speak for themselves.
These outcomes show that we can make a real difference at the city level. And I’m going to continue to do everything I can to build on that momentum and create an economy and a future that is worthy of our people and of our kids. Phoenix will continue to lead — on innovation and trade, on doing right by our veterans and doing our
part to fight climate change, on protecting our water supply, on education, public safety and so much more.
Here are some of the new initiatives and announcements I made in this year’s address:
• An Innovation District. Innovation Districts are emerging all over the world in leading metropolitan areas where research facilities, education institutions and closeknit networks of entrepreneurs can work together and multiply commercialization. We’re going to designate an Innovation District in our urban core — the area with the most potential — and build a focused economic development strategy to maximize new business and opportunity.
• “Smart Gigabit Community.” Through a new collaboration with U.S. Ignite and Cox Communications, Phoenix has been selected as a “Smart Gigabit Community.” This public-private partnership is going to give Phoenix app developers exciting new tools to enhance the lives of our residents.
• The Armory. Downtown Phoenix will soon be home to The Armory — the nation’s first facility solely dedicated to pro-
price estimates. Virtually every bid came in to the penny at the estimate. Were the estimators that prescient, or did they have “help?” And only one bid? What did the brokers do to earn that 2 percent?
About taxes — many of the sales are to other government entities such as Maricopa County. The state gets the money, but it comes from Maricopa County taxpayers. Do you suppose that the county will need to raise taxes to cover that buy?
Is there a nice broker commission even when the buyer is another government entitiy? And no other bids? On a single bid? Does it look as if the fix is in?
But go back to the goose and golden egg theme. Anyone who has a retirement plan is usually advised to never spend the principal, only the earnings. Disaster awaits those who disregard this advice. Our Arizona Trust lands are the principal, earning a fair return. Selling that land, at almost any price, equates to eating that goose. Eating the seed corn. No more golden eggs.
I find too many unanswered questions. Too many red flags. Too many beneficiaries
other than the education system.
The largest unknown is: Why are our politicians ignoring the professionals' advice?
Is there a hidden agenda? Just asking. Jean Jolkovski
In the 2008 presidential campaign the biggest problem that forced the Republicans to lose was that they didn’t understand their opponent was George Soros. You can’t win a battle if you don’t know your opponent, and they didn’t.
Why am I writing about the socialist, George Soros? Soros was interviewed on “60 Minutes,” by Steve Croft, and this interview was also on the internet. Soros said that he was the puppet master, and Obama was his puppet. Also he told Croft that he gave $5 billion to the Democratic National Committee (DNC), to elect Obama, because he was an Alinsky activist. Saul Alinsky,
viding resources and services for veteran entrepreneurs. We’re going to make Phoenix the epicenter for “vet-repreneurship.”
• Phoenix Biomedical Campus Incubator. We’re partnering with the University of Arizona to launch an incubator on the biomedical campus. With support from the top-ranked entrepreneurship program at the Eller College of Management, this incubator will bring the experience and knowhow to scale companies in the health care, medical device and bio-startup industries.
• Skillful Initiative. Through a partnership with the city, Arizona State University, LinkedIn and the Markle Foundation, we have launched the Skillful Initiative to train workers for tech-focused or advanced manufacturing jobs, and match them with employers.
During my time as mayor, we’ve been met with unprecedented challenges. But each time, our city and our City Council has risen to the occasion and we continue to lead Arizona’s recovery. We’re going to keep pushing forward.
— Greg Stanton was first elected mayor of Phoenix in 2011. He was relected to a second term as mayor on Aug. 25, 2015.
a Socialist, spent his life trying to destroy America. His only legacy was that he conducted many training courses, leaving many people with his ideas. Obama not only took his course but taught it when he worked for ACORN, his only non-public job. Soros also controls and filters a lot of the media, (if you control the media, you control the people).”
This year the battles in the Republican Party have been negatively presented in the media. Soros is focused on eliminating Trump from the contest, so his favorite, Hillary, can win. We really have a contest that is orchestrated by Soros. All of these skirmishes in Trumps’ rallies have ties to Soros. Alarmingly, Trump has not made the connection, and if he doesn’t recognize his enemy, he will go down in defeat. It is ironic that both parties are being controlled by billionaires.
Trump has to concentrate on the Republican National Committee (RNC). Then, after all of that is over, he will try to knock out Hillary (but he had better understand his real enemy).
Don Crook
ABC15.com
A January photo showing six Desert Vista High School students in Ahwatukee spelling out a racial slur is making news again after the incident made its way into the school yearbook.
The yearbook article details the fallout after a photo of six girls spelling out the “n-word” was shared on social media, sparking an online firestorm and throwing the school into a debate over racism in the community.
The story includes steps the school took to educate the students, including challenges and presentations.
Some parents and students say the incident should not have been detailed in the yearbook, prompting a move by the school to have the pages glued together for those who don’t want it included. Students with glued pages have the option of trading it back in for an “unglued” version.
A spokesperson for the Tempe Union High School District told ABC15 the school is taking the time to respond to parents and students who express concerns during the “emotional time.”
“The school is listening to the perspectives of students and parents as it relates to the yearbook and want all of them to have a positive experience,” spokeswoman Jill
Hanks said. “Out of respect for those who want the pages to remain, and those who do not, the decision was made to allow students a choice in whether they want a book
>> From page 11
donations.
Dr. Don Covey said that this year’s results from the Tax Credit Portal show “a continued interest and commitment to supporting local schools, especially those in neighborhoods with fewer resources.”
with the pages showing or without.”
S. 48th St., Suite 185 Phoenix, AZ 85044 info@ahwatukeecarpets.com
MCESA and the city of Phoenix not only partnered together in maintaining the Tax Credit Portal but in spreading the word about this easy way to contribute funds to school and earn tax credit.
“By working together to raise awareness, and by making the process simple and con-
venient, we more than doubled the contributions to local schools through the Tax Credit Portal,” said Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. “When we help level the playing field and narrow the funding gap for schools in need, it helps our economy and everyone in it.”
— Contact writer Kelly Mixer at 480-898-7913 or kmixer@ahwatukee.com.
— Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and AhwatukeeFN on Twitter.
By Susan Wilmot AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Some years ago, back in the business world, I was assigned to work with a team on redesigning the corporate customer listening program. It quickly became apparent that our work was cut out for us in many different ways. We struggled against a strong and resistant corporate culture. We struggled against inadequate databases and highly diffused information. And like any new team, we had the usual team formation stuff to work through, including the four stages of team life and work affectionately known as forming, storming, norming and performing. Every member of the team had a regular workload, as well as the pressure of ensuring the team’s success. Like any good corporate team, we wanted a catchy name, preferably one we could reduce to a three letter acronym! We finally settled on calling ourselves, The Persistent Ones. What’s really fascinating is how we define success. As far as our team work went, fulfilling our goal would define our success or
not. We had to formulate a new customer listening program that had senior management buy-in, and was a statistically valid and reliable measure our customers’ satisfaction with our products and services. In worldly terms, we succeeded. The team became a somewhat more permanent group working to communicate and implement the new program with both our internal and our external customers. Then the company reorganized and the team of five became a team of two doing the same amount of work. A couple of years later, the company rightsized and the team of two became a team of one, doing the same amount of work. Ah, the rewards of success!
Perhaps because of some of my corporate experiences, I find God’s definition of success much more appealing. For the most part, Scripture doesn’t talk about success, especially in the way we think of it in worldly terms. Instead we read about living into God’s love, wisdom, and goodness. We also learn about faithfulness, servant leadership, and obedience, among other things. For example, in 1 John 5:3-4 we read, “For the love of God is this, that we obey his command-
By David Marz AFN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
May 15 is known as Pentecost Sunday. In many faith communities after Christmas and Easter, Pentecost Sunday is celebrated as the most important Holy-day of the year. As recorded in the Bible in the book of Acts, Pentecost is the celebration of God’s Spirit and God’s presence in the world today. No matter what people believe about Jesus, the church, or religion, something happened in the first century that made the early church people do some incredible, risky, life-threatening moves. They had been infected by the Spirit of God to do some surprisingly crazy things. People thought they were literally insane. Some of these people were tagged as being drunk or on something. Their families were concerned. These early Spirit filled people were not under their own power. They were under the influence of another. People under the influence can do extraordinary silly things. For instance, people under the influence of the Spirit of God who under normal circumstances are reserved or self-protected begin to look a lit-
tle peculiar. That is the whole point.
The Bible in Ephesians 5:18 encourages the early church to limit their drunkenness. They did not need to drink to stand out. They were already an alternative community. They were already seen as rebels. They were already tagged as being full of social resistance. They were always drunk. They had been intoxicated, not by wine or some substance, but the Spirit of God who gave them hope. If they were going to be different, it was because God’s Spirit had gotten a hold of them. The celebration of Pentecost is a revelation that this surprisingly crazy Spirit of God is now loose in the world. This Spirit is a gift. A gift for all people. The Bible says that on Pentecost people were gifted with the ability to speak in different languages.
People who witnessed these people speaking in a different language from their own were bewildered. The spectacle caused chaos. The witnesses were trying to make sense of it so one explanation was drunken behavior. Some said, “They are drunk on strong booze.” One of Jesus’ followers stood up and explained these people are not drunk, but they are under the influence of a transfor-
ments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whatever is born of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world, our faith.” From 2 Peter 1:5-7 we read, “For this very reason, you must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love.”
The truth is God’s definition of success is measured by our persistent faithfulness, and our consistent desire to humbly seek and follow God’s will and God’s ways. God’s definition of success is summed up in these words: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23 KJV).
Our perspective of what success really means changes dramatically as our faith grows, and our transformation in the power of the Holy Spirit progresses. That is, success from God’s perspective. That change is evidenced by losing our self-focus, and the need or craving we sometimes feel for egotistical self-gratification and self-glorification. On the other hand, we have a height-
ened awareness of God’s kingdom perspective, where the focus rightly becomes the Lord, and our words, deeds, and ministries of loving service are offered to the glory of God’s name.
In the meantime, we continue to thank God for the gift of persistence. It would certainly be more comfortable to yield to the tidal wave of cultural indoctrination, or to continue as if our faith, or life in Christ changes nothing. So we give thanks for God’s persistent love, persistent grace and mercy. For the Lord’s persistent care and provision, as well as the Lord’s persistent hold on our hearts and lives. Only in God’s persistent love do we have the strength to endure whatever the world throws our way; to persist in listening to God; and to persist in welcoming the Lord in our hearts, and living out God’s purpose for our lives. There’s always room on God’s team of persistent ones!
— The Rev. Susan E. Wilmot is Vicar at St. James the Apostle Episcopal Church and Preschool, 975 E. Warner Road, in Tempe. Reach her at rector@ stjamestempe.org or at 480-345-2686. Visit www. stjamestempe.org.
mative substance. They are under the influence of the Spirit of God and that Spirit was now going out to all people as a gift. God’s plan is revealed on Pentecost. That all people, all races, all languages, and all nations are to be gifted. The presence of God’s Spirit, God’s presence, and God’s blessing are not just for a few chosen but for all the world. Today many people suffer from being under the influence of something. We are an intoxicated people. The good news is that God’s Spirit, presence, and blessing are right there for the receiving. The Spirit calls out to each of us and is offered to a rich diversity of people from every tribe, every nation, every race, and every tongue. People under the influence do some pretty surprising things. Some good things and some bad things. People under the influence of the Spirit can do astonishing things. God has assured to do so within all people. God’s gift is there for you. May you be blessed to receive that gift.
MEGA CHALLAH BAKE SUNDAY, MAY 22
Jewish children ages 4 and up from the East Valley will be tasked with mixing, kneading and shaping at the inaugural Kids Mega Challah Bake. Challah in its more widely known usage, refers to a braided bread traditionally eaten at Shabbat and other holidays and is considered one of the most famous Jewish foods. The historic event carries added significance as Jewish communities worldwide celebrate the year of Hakhel, a once-every-seven-years opportunity to celebrate Jewish unity and learning. Throughout the year, Jewish synagogues and organizations are hosting communal gatherings for men, women and children dedicated to encouraging Jewish observance.
DETAILS>> 1:30-3 p.m., Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. RSVP at www.ChabadCenter.com/KidsBake, 480-855-4333 or kidsmegabake@gmail.com. Space is limited so RSVP is required.
Open to children ages 4 and up. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost is $15 per child.
As the Ahwatukee Community Chorus nears the completion of its first season, it continues to welcome singers of all levels. The group rehearses weekly on Sunday evenings. Although it is not affiliated with any religious organization, the chorus rehearses at Horizon Presbyterian Church (not affiliated).
DETAILS>> Sundays 6 to 8 p.m., Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. There is an annual $100 membership fee that covers all costs. For more
May 22
>> From page 18
information, visit www.ahwatukeecommunitychorus. org or call 480-442-7324.
The Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life Chai Judaica and Gifts is the place to find the gifts for special occasions — everything from Mezuzot to books, religious items, jewelry and everything in between.
DETAILS>> Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive, Chandler. Gift shop hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday by appointment only and Sundays 9:3010 a.m. and noon-12:30 p.m. For more information, visit info@chabadcenter.com or call 480-855-4333.
Every week, Gan Israel day trips feature excursions to children’s favorite locations. Camp Gan Israel is proud of its swimming program where activities are supervised by certified Red Cross lifeguards. In addition, an array of sports and crafts are offered, supervised by our experienced instructors, promoting individual progress, sportsmanship and creative expression.
DETAILS>> Camp Gan Israel will be in session once again this summer. Boys and girls, ages 5-12, enjoy a full day at Gan Israel from Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., from June 14-July 22. Offering Mini Gan Izzy program for children ages 12 months-4 years from June 14-Aug. 5. Extended care hours are available upon request. For more information on extended care, email info@ chabadcenter.com or visit www.CGIEastValley.com.
HEBREW SCHOOL
Hebrew School takes place at the Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life. Classes take place Sunday
mornings from 9:30 a.m.-noon, and are offered for children ages 5-13.
DETAILS>> To schedule an appointment to visit Chabad Hebrew School to tour the facility, call 480855-4333 or email info@chabadcenter.com. For further information, log on to www.chabadcenter.com.
AHWATUKEE JEWISH CONGREGATION NEFESHSOUL FRIDAY NIGHT SHABBAT SERVICES
The second Friday of each month. DETAILS>> 6:15 on the campus of Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6400 W. Del Rio St. in Chandler. www.nefeshsoul.org.
AHWATUKEE CONGREGATION NEFESHSOUL SATURDAY MORNING DISCUSSION GROUP
DETAILS>> Every Saturday at 8:45 a.m. on the campus of Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6400 W. Del Rio St. in Chandler. www.nefeshsoul.org.
INFANT ROOM OPENS AT SYNDI SCHECK YAD B’YAD PRESCHOOL
Registration is open for the new infant room at Syndi Scheck Yad B’Yad Preschool. The full-time infant room for children ages 6 weeks to 12 months.
DETAILS>> Temple Emanuel of Tempe, 5801 S. Rural Road. For more information, call Rachel Wallach, 480838-1414, or email Rachel at rachel@emanueloftempe. org.
HEBREW SCHOOL
An opportunity for children to learn and experience Jewish life in a fun, warm and exciting environment. Chabad Hebrew School will be opening its doors to
the Jewish community of the East Valley, regardless of background or affiliation, to teach children about Jewish heritage, culture and holidays.
DETAILS>> Classes are on Sunday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and are offered for children ages 5-13 at Pollack Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 875 N. McClintock Drive in Chandler. For more information, call 480-855-4333, email info@chabadcenter.com, or visit to www.chabadcenter.com.
CHANDLER JEWISH PRESCHOOL OFFERS REGGIO-INSPIRED EARLY CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE
Registration is open for the 2015-2016 school year. As preschool programs across the country are experiencing cuts in funding, Chandler Jewish Preschool is gaining popularity among parents in the East Valley. The Reggio-Inspired program is dedicated to offering little ones a safe, nurturing environment, where they can develop socially, physically, emotionally, and intellectually, in a Jewish setting. CJP is committed to a small teacher-student ratio. The competitive tuition rates make it an appealing option in today’s economy. The school will be open to preschoolers ranging in age from 12 months to 5 years. The program is flexible, enabling part-time and half-day options. They are also DES certified and have beforeand after-care hours available.
DETAILS>> For more information and to schedule a personal tour, contact Shternie at info@chabadcenter. com or call 480-855-4333.
Ongoing Sunday morning study of two classics of
Foothills Church in Ahwatukee
rabbinic literature by the great medieval philosopher Moses Maimonides (the “Rambam”). At 10 a.m., Prof. Norbert Samuelson, grossman chair of Jewish Philosophy at ASU and TBS member, teaches “Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed: What Jews Ought to Believe.” This is followed at 11:15 a.m. by TBS member Isaac Levy teaching “Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah: How Jews Ought to Behave.” No previous experience necessary; readings in both Hebrew and English. DETAILS>> Beginning Jan. 10, in the Community Room of the Administration Building. Temple Beth Sholom of the East Valley, 3400 N. Dobson Road, Chandler. 480897-3636.
HORIZON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH YOUTH GROUPS
High school and middle school students meet to worship and do life together.
DETAILS>> Sundays at 5 p.m. at Horizon Presbyterian Church, 1401 E. Liberty Lane. Call 480-460-1480 or contact Joel Siken at joel@horizonchurch.com.
GRIEF SHARE IN TEMPE
A support group designed to assist people through the grieving process. Onetime book fee $15.
DETAILS>> Arizona Community Church, 9325 S. Rural Road, Room G3, Tempe, on Sundays from 2-4 p.m. Call 480-491-2210 for further information.
SUNDAYS IN THE KITCHEN
Every Sunday night, Phoenix minister/Performance artist Paisley Yankolovich attacks The Kitchen with intimate, unplugged and spoken word presentations. DETAILS>> The Kitchen, 3206 W. Lamar Road. Phoenix. Admission: Free.
By Bonny Holland
Here in the Valley, we consid-
er the true luxury market to be properties valued at $1,000,000-plus.
According to Arizona regional MLS, there are currently 1,524 homes listed between 1 and 2 million and 816 that are listed over 2 million. The closed sales so far in 2016 have been 254 between 1 and 2 million and 92 over 2 million. The sales based on current inventory have 1 to
2 million priced homes at six months of inventory and 2 million-plus at nine months of inventory.
The inventory for luxury homes is high and the buyer pool currently is small.
According to Michael Orr, director of the Center for Real Estate Theory and Practice and the W.P. Carey School of Business, “Demand at the higher Luxury Market is the softest we’ve seen in a long time. I expect this weakness will continue as long as we experience uncertainty in the financial markets worldwide.”
The report went on to
say that homes between $250,000 to $500,000 were up 2-6 percent in 2015 and that homes between $500,000 to $2,000,000 moved only slightly upward. The overall high end Luxury Market has excessive amounts of inventory which creates an abundance of competition. Most sellers are needing to make price reductions and even added incentives to sell in this market.
The same holds true in Ahwatukee. Currently in the three ZIP codes 85044, 85045 and 85048 there are
>> See MARKET on page RE 2
By Jorge Quijada CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Owning a home is the American Dream. The process begins with obtaining a pre-approval letter from your loan officer. The pre-approval letter is your “golden ticket” to begin shopping for a home.
This is first step in owning your own home. This is where you will meet with your preferred loan officer and submit a loan application. Once the loan application and credit has been reviewed, your loan officer will require that you provide them the most recent tax returns, bank statements and paycheck stubs. Once these items are collected, the loan officer will review and calculate how much home you can afford, along with the amount needed for your down payment, and closing costs. Once this has been determined, your loan officer will provide you a copy of your pre-approval letter. This is a huge milestone, because as previously stated, this is your ticket to go shopping!
This is where the fun really begins. You will work closely with your real estate agent to identify your needs and wants in your new
home. There are many things to think about at this stage of the home purchase process, but identifying what you really NEED in a home as opposed to what you WANT early in the process will make the home shopping experience a much more pleasurable one. Once you and your real estate agent have identified your perfect home, your real estate agent will write a strong offer and contract to purchase the home. Once the pur-
chase offer has been accepted, it is strongly advised that you hire a reputable, licensed home inspector to inspect the property. If repairs are needed, your real estate agent can always go back to the seller and negotiate repairs, as needed.
Getting the keys
You have now applied for a loan, fallen in love with your dream home and navigated the repair and escrow process. The finish line is within sight. All that is left to do is complete the final walk-through of the home with your real estate agent and schedule a day to sign your loan documents with your title company. At closing, you will review your loan documents and sign the appropriate paperwork. One quick piece of advise, don’t forget to bring your state issued identification. It is required to be presented at signing. Once this is completed, the title company will record the transaction with the Maricopa County Recorders Office. This signifies that you are now the owner of your dream home. Your real estate agent will welcome you to your new home and provide you all the keys.
— Jorge L. Quijada is a Realtor with West USA Realty in Ahwatukee. The Quijada family has been servicing the Ahwatukee Foothills community for over 20 years. Visit www. phoenixrealtyhomes.com or reach Quijada at 602299-5557 or jorge@westusa.com.
>> From page RE 1
25 active luxury listings from $1,040,000 in Calabrea to $3,400,000 in Canyon Reserve. The average days on market for the active listings is 153. There are currently six homes listed above $1,000,000 under contract from $1,125,000 in Ahwatukee Custom to $1,500,000 in Tapestry Canyon. The average days on market for the under contracts is 160.
Ahwatukee luxury sales in 2015 were up from 2014. We had 17 closings over a million. Seven were located in the Ahwatukee Custom area (85044) and the rest of them were in 85048 communities such as Canyon Reserve, Eagle Ridge and Tapestry Canyon. So far in 2016 there has only been two sales over a million in Ahwatukee. One of them sold for $1,500,000 in Whistling Rock and the other sold for $2,400,000 in Summerhill. Both homes are located in Club West, are over 7,000 square feet and are two of the newest custom built homes in all of Ahwatukee. Spring is usually our best season for selling luxury homes. With this in mind and the current pending and closing listings we are hopeful for that this trend will continue into 2016!
— Bonny Holland is with Keller Williams, Sonoran Living in Ahwatukee Foothills. Reach her at 602-369-1085, www.leadingluxuryexperts. com or on Facebook and Twitter.
By Andy Warren CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Now that Arizona’s employment rate has officially recovered to its pre-recession level, many individuals are ready to launch themselves back into the housing market. And as they consider the many options available, they’re asking themselves a very important question: “Which type of home is right for me — resale or new?”
The answer is likely to depend on a number of factors, including lifestyle preferences, budget, location and one’s aptitude and tolerance for repairs and capital improvements. Certainly, existing homes have nu-
merous charms. They’re often located in mature neighborhoods, close to city cores and public transportation. They offer an enticing challenge for DIY aficionados who revel in a satisfying remodeling project, even if it adds an extra line item to their hous-
By Aaron Ely CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Let’s clear up what a down payment is, who it goes to, and where it comes from.
The down payment is money given to the home’s seller. The rest of the payment to the seller comes from your mortgage. Down payments are expressed as percentages. A down payment of at least 20 percent lets you avoid mortgage insurance.
How bankers and real estate agents talk about down payments, let’s say you buy a house for $100,000: A 3 percent down payment means that you pay the seller $3,000 and you borrow $97,000.
With a 20 percent down payment, you would pay the seller $20,000 and you would borrow $80,000.
Sometimes you’ll hear a phrase like, “Bill
put 20 percent down on the house.” That means that Bill made a 20 percent down payment.
The money for a down payment can come from: your own savings, the money you get when you sell a house, gifts and grants from family, employers and nonprofits.
When you make a down payment, you risk losing that money if you can’t make the house payments and end up in foreclosure. This gives you an incentive to make your mortgage payments. That’s why the lender requires a down payment.
Most mortgage lenders require a down payment of at least 3 percent. FHA loans (mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration) require a down payment of at least 3.5 percent. Depending on your credit history, the type of dwelling and your reason for buying, the minimum down payment could be 5 percent, 10 percent, 20 percent, or more.
When you make a down payment of
4225 E. Amberwood Drive, $245,000
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy., 1110, $107,500
3830 E. Lakewood Pkwy., 2087, $110,000
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy 1022, $114,900
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy., 2004, $132,900
3236 E. Chandler Blvd., 2032, $137,000
3236 E. Chandler Blvd., 2077, $140,000
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy., 1090, $145,000
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy., 2072, $149,500
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy., 1095, $156,000
1728 W. Amberwood Drive, $247,500 3017 W. Silver Fox Way, $262,500
W. Mountain Sage Drive, $288,000
16013 S. Desert Foothills Pkwy., 2120, $157,500
2220 E. Clubhouse Drive, $193,000
16604 S. 22nd St., $195,000
16924 S. 22nd St., $200,000
Drive, $339,900
4518 E. Ashurst Drive, $207,500
1024 E. Frye Road, 1056, $209,900
4544 E. Wildwood Drive, $225,000
4411 E. Amberwood Drive, $225,000
16922 S. Cedarwood Lane, $228,000
2725 E. Rock Wren Road, $235,000
2160 E. Nighthawk Way, $260,000
739 E. Goldenrod St., $405,000 327 E. Hiddenview Drive, $412,000
1537 E. Windsong Drive, $260,000
1640 E. Windsong Drive, $260,000
2565 E. Taxidea Way, $263,500
E. Rockledge Road, $434,950 16656 S. 18th Way, $468,000 356 E. Briarwood Terrace, $481,500
4629 E. Frye Road, $265,500
4310 E. Tanglewood Drive, $267,400
4106 E. Glenhaven Drive, $270,000
2918 E. Saltsage Drive, $277,000
2029 E. Windsong Drive, $288,500
3218 E. Briarwood Terrace, $300,000
1209 E. Windsong Drive, $308,500
17002 S. 29th Way, $314,900
15039 S. 14th Place, $315,000
14640 S. 24th Way, $315,000
16675 S. 3rd Place, $328,900
1443 E. Briarwood Terrace, $330,000
2419 E. Silverwood Drive, $335,000
16417 S. 2nd Place, $338,000
4226 E. Woodland Drive, $345,000
708 E. Glenhaven Drive, $349,900
2661 E. Verbena Drive, $350,000
3425 E. Windsong Drive, $355,900
2903 E. Verbena Drive, $360,000
15431 S. 16th Way, $397,500
3015 E. Wildwood Drive, $399,375
3163 E. Desert Flower Lane, $400,000 14623 S. 25th Place, $402,000
E. Saltsage Drive, $430,000 538 E. Brookwood Ct., $435,000
S. 23rd Place, $440,000
E. Mtn Sky Ave., $470,000 2809 E. Frye Road, $775,000 14204 S. Presario Trail, $2,400,000
For the past 12 years, Grace Garden Christian Preschool has offered young students in Ahwatukee an intimate preschool experience.
The school’s current enrollment stands at 100 students from ages 6 weeks to 12 years old.
Catherine Thomson, preschool director, said the school provides its students with skill sets needed to be comfortable in a kindergarten classroom.
“We use some of the old teaching methods, along with some of the new ones,” she said. For additional information about Grace Garden Christian Preschool, visit www. gracegardenchristianpreschool.com.
— Compiled by Daniel Ochoa.
ing budget.
But new homes — with their energy-efficient construction, customizable features and sought-after amenities — are equally attractive. According to a 2014 consumer survey by online housing marketplace Trulia, 41 percent of respondents said they’d prefer to buy a newly built home instead of an existing home. Half of those new-home supporters, however, expressed concern over the higher cost of a new home compared to that of an existing home.
It’s true that modern features, such as high-efficiency heating and cooling, a kitchen island, open floor plan, and pre-wiring for high-tech appliances and gadgets may push the cost of a new home higher than that of many resale homes. However, the purchase price is not necessarily indicative of the actual cost in the long run.
According to a 2011 American Housing Survey, newer homes cost about $25 less per month for maintenance compared with all homes. That’s good news for the 55 percent
of respondents from the Trulia survey who said they’d prefer a new home over an existing one because they’d like to spend less on maintenance.
Cost-savings will also likely be found in a new home’s monthly utility bills, thanks to the fact that homes today meet tougher national code standards for energy efficiency than houses that were constructed even just a few years back.
The bottom line on new and resale houses is this: one person’s pros are another’s cons. Ultimately, the key is to find one you like, decide on the trade-offs you’re willing to make and move ahead knowing that your own special touches will create a home in which ever house you choose.
- Andy Warren is president of Arizona homebuilder Maracay Homes. He serves on the board of directors and as an executive committee member with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and is a past board member of the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona. For more information about Maracay Homes, visit www.maracayhomes.com.
less than 20 percent, you must buy mortgage insurance. There are two main types: Private mortgage insurance, often called PMI, is paid to an insurance company. Most PMI premiums are paid monthly. They’re called annual premiums, even though they’re paid every month. Most insurers offer the option of an “up-front premium” — a big payment at the beginning of the loan. FHA insurance is paid to the federal government. When you get an FHA-insured mortgage, you pay for an up-front pre-
mium, plus monthly premium payments. In many cases, lenders charge fees to borrowers who make down payments of less than 20 percent. Those fees are on top of mortgage insurance premiums. The smaller the down payment, the higher the fees, which are paid at closing. Sometimes the lender charges a higher interest rate in lieu of the fees.
A bigger down payment equals more house.
- Ahwatukee Foothills resident Aaron Ely is a senior loan officer with Flagstar Bank Home Loan Center. Reach him at 480-636-6207 or
If there’s one word to describe Dunn, it’s driven. As an aspiring doctor, she has participated in several activities to get a head start in medicine. She’s co-president and founder of the Horizon’s Pre-Med Club, she interns at an obstetrics and gynecology practice, and last year she went to the Dominican Republic for a medical mission trip.
“I got to work in the medical clinic and the dental clinic and the pharmacy. I actually got to pull teeth and work with the doctors and bond with the people. It was really eye opening,” she said.
“Kara is someone who is exceptionally motivated and uses her energy to positively impact the world around her. Making a difference in the world is not just something she hopes to do in the future, it is something she is actively engaging in every day,” said Ann Shaheen, Dunn’s AP English language and composition honors teacher.
When Dunn decided to go after the Flinn scholarship, she approached Shaheen to discuss the opportunity.
“When I first told (her) that I was going to do it, the first thing she said was, ‘The Flinn is very, very difficult to get. But you could do it.’”
Bolstered by her teacher’s confidence, Dunn worked hard on her essays and braved several difficult interviews. She says her pre-
vious experience with Tempe Sister Cities, an exchange student program that allows high school students to study abroad for a semester, helped prepare her for the rigorous application process. The effort paid off. She was offered the Flinn scholarship in March and officially accepted last month. Dunn plans to put the scholarship to good use.
In August, she will start school at the hon-
ors college at University of Arizona, double majoring in physiology and nutrition with a minor in Spanish.
“I really want to study nutrigenomics and the relationship between nutrition and disease intervention and prevention,” Dunn said. To do that, she plans on using her study abroad experience to visit Spain or Italy — both hot spots for nutrigenomics. She will also be joining U of A’s Undergraduate Bi-
ology Research Program, spending a summer in China, taking advantage of her second study abroad opportunity in Spain or Italy and joining the co-ed pre-medical fraternity. Her brother, a current premedical student at U of A, has urged her to join him on more medical mission trips, too.
“I really want to continue medical mission work in college and, because of this scholarship, I’ll have the ability to travel and to do that. I really want to work with women’s health in foreign countries.”
Dunn says the scholarship has opened up her future prospects as well.
“Because I don’t have to worry about my undergraduate funding and my parents aren’t contributing to that, I’ll be able to go to medical school wherever I want and not have to worry so much about the financial burden.”
Dunn will also have the long-lasting benefit of experience, guidance and community.
“I’m going to have a lot of mentorship and internships because of this. There are 80 current Flinns that I’ll be able to collaborate with on different programs, so it’s really the community that makes it so special.”
By Howard Fischer CAPITOL MEDIA SERVICES
The end of the 2016 legislative session Saturday could be marked as much by what did not happen as what did.
As lawmakers pushed to end the 117-day session, some things just fell off the table. Perhaps the most notable was a decision by the House not to take a final vote on a passed bill that could have resulted in 80,000 adults losing food stamps.
That measure was a last-minute proposal by Rep. Justin Olson, R-Mesa, who tacked it on to unrelated legislation.
His target was able-bodied adults without dependents.
Such federally benefits are generally available to able-bodied adults without dependents for only three months. But federal law allows the state to seek extensions in areas of high unemployment or where jobs are not plentiful.
That is currently a decision made by the state Department of Economic Security. Olson, a candidate for Congress, proposed requiring DES to first get permission from a special legislative panel as well as the governor.
He got preliminary approval for the measure last week on a voice vote. But with no savings to the state from the move, he ran into opposition as he tried to line up the necessary support for a roll-call vote, with foes criticizing him for cutting off help to people who may be hungry and unable to find work solely to make a political point.
Also failing to make it to the finish line was a proposal passed by the Senate early Saturday to ask voters to defund the Cit-
izens Clean Elections Commission. It oversees a voluntary system that allows candidates for statewide and legislative office to get a set amount of public money for their campaigns if they agree not to take donations from private sources and special interests.
The system is financed through a 10 percent surcharge on civil, traffic and criminal fines. Last year it raised nearly $8.2 million.
Sen. Jeff Dial, R-Chandler, said he wanted to give voters the chance to divert those funds to education. But Dial, who has run with private dollars, conceded a fringe benefit to him would be to wipe out the whole public financing concept.
The House, however, went home for the year without taking it up.
And the Senate refused to provide the necessary votes Saturday for a Housepassed measure that would have allowed public schools to require anyone entering the property during school hours to sign in at the office, show a governmentor company-issued identification, and receive approval to enter.
Other things did make it to the desk of Gov. Doug Ducey. But not all of them were bold changes in the law.
Consider: In the last hours of the session lawmakers voted to establish procedures for members of a homeowners association to remove a member of the board.
They also authorized a monument near the Capitol in memory of Assyrian Christians who were killed as a re-
sult of genocide by the Ottoman army.
There also were measures to conform state tax laws with the Internal Revenue Code, changes in statutes dealing with licensing of motor vehicle dealers, and even to set standards for publication and preservation of electronic materials.
And then there also was the debate over whether school children should be able to grow and eat their own food.
Sounds simple enough.
But here’s the thing: Existing law requires the Department of Health Services to adopt regulations to ensure all food or drink sold at retail and provided for human consumption is free from unwholesome, poisonous or other foreign matter, including dirt, insects and disease-causing organisms. HB 2518 would exempt fruits and vegetables grown in a public school garden that are washed and cut on site for immediate consumption.
That did not please some rural lawmakers like Rep. Lisa Otondo, D-Yuma. She worried openly that if someone got sick from eating something from Arizona that was not properly handled it could undermine the whole state’s agriculture industry. And she said that could happen easily, what with javelina running through a garden and perhaps leaving a little something behind.
But that claim drew derision from House Minority Leader Eric Meyer, D-Paradise Valley, who said he fed his children vegetables that came from a garden through which javelina have run and yet they all turned out OK.
In the end, the measure was approved and sent to the governor.
There were some measures of greater import pushed through in the final hours of the session as more than 100 bills were sent to the governor. Legislators approved changes in campaign fi-
nance laws, voted to end dog racing in Arizona and agreed to block local governments from enacting rules dealing with private employers.
Lawmakers also are asking Ducey to sign legislation to allow judges to sentence those who block traffic headed to political rallies to up to six months in jail.
HB 2548 originally started as a simple free speech measure aimed at ensuring that state universities and community colleges could not interfere with the rights of students to speak and protest on campuses. It even allows the attorney general to sue on a student’s behalf.
But the scope of the measure was expanded after protesters blocked Shea Boulevard in a bid to block Donald Trump from getting to a rally in Fountain Hills and to keep people from attending the event. Sen. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, said the current penalty of 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for blocking traffic is not enough of a penalty for those who seek to interfere with the First Amendment rights of others to speak or assemble.
Lawmakers also agreed early Saturday to allow some calls to the child abuse hotline at the Department of Child Safety to not have to result in formal reports and investigations. Standards include that the suspected conduct occurred at least three years earlier and there is no indication a child is currently being abused or neglected.
By Howard Fischer
Forget setting off aerial fireworks and blowing stuff up in your backyard this Fourth of July.
The Senate voted 15-14 last Thursday to kill legislation that would have expanded the kinds of things Arizonans can legally light up.
That means no firecrackers. It also means no “keg mortars” loaded with multiple charges that shoot up to 100 feet in the air, both of which would have been legalized by HB 2398.
The defeat came over the objections of Sen. Steve Smith, R-Maricopa, who took a swipe at foes.
“I don’t know what the best PC way to say this is,” he said, “It just is ... the wussification of America.”
Smith said people complain that fireworks wake up their children and their pets.
“Well, it’s called the Fourth of July,” he argued.
“I mean, if you don’t like fireworks on the Fourth of July or New Year’s, go to another country.”
Arizona has tiptoed into the area of consumer fireworks.
Even sparklers were not legal until six years ago. Current law allows Arizonans
to also have smoke snakes, fountains and ground spinners.
But anything that explodes or launches is prohibited.
The legislation drew opposition from Jim Ford, deputy fire marshal for Scottsdale and a member of the state Fire Safety Committee. He said expanding what’s allowable is likely to lead to more accidents and more fires.
But Mike Williams, who lobbies for TNT Fireworks, said there is no evidence of any fires that have been started by what was made legal since 2010.
Gov. Doug Ducey was noncommittal
when asked about the issue earlier this year.
“We have incredible fire concerns,” the governor said. But Ducey said he also is a big believer in personal freedom.
“I want people to have fun,” the governor said. “And there’s nothing more fun than safely blowing things up on the Fourth of July.”
— Follow Howard Fischer on Twitter @ azcapmedia.
Your newspaper. Your community. Your planet. Please recycle me.
By Howard Fischer CAPITOL MEDIA SERVICES
Doctors who lie about whether they’ve examined patients before recommending medical marijuana are subject to criminal prosecution, the Arizona Supreme Court ruled Friday.
The justices acknowledged the 2010 voter-approved Arizona Medical Marijuana Act does grant immunity to physicians against being charged with any crimes in connection with providing the written recommendations for patients.
But Justice Clint Bolick, writing for the unanimous court, said that does not mean doctors are free to break other laws, even if the act involves a marijuana recommendation. And Bolick said that’s the case here. Arizona law allows those with certain medical conditions to obtain up to 2 1/2 ounces of marijuana every two weeks. They must first get a written recommendation from a doctor.
Court records show a confidential informant working for the Navajo County drug
task force went to the office of Robert Gear, a naturopath, to get a recommendation. She completed a medical questionnaire and medical records statement provided by Gear’s staff and disclosed information about her medical history and physical condition.
Rules adopted by the state Department of Health Services require doctors to review a patient’s medical records for the past 12 months before writing a recommendation.
In this case, the woman said she had seen other doctors during that period but did not “have a complete set of medical records” with her. But she agreed she would either request that her records be sent to Gear or that she would bring them to the doctor on her next visit.
Gear issued the written certification anyway. He was indicted on charges of forgery and committing fraudulent schemes and artifices.
A trial judge threw out the charges based on the immunity provisions of the 2010 law, a decision upheld by the Court of Appeals. Bolick said both decisions were wrong.
He said the law spells out doctors cannot be prosecuted for providing written certification. Nor can they be charged with a crime for exercising their medical judgment that a patient would benefit from marijuana.
What Gear was charged with, Bolick said, was certifying that he had reviewed the patient’s medical records for the prior 12 months when he had not done so. And Gear attested that “the information provided in the written certification is true and correct.”
Bolick rejected Gear’s contention that the immunity extends to anything related to the certification, saying such an interpretation “could lead to troublesome outcomes.”
“For instance, would immunity extend to theft or sexual assault committed in the course of a physical examination conducted during the certification process?” the justice asked.
The justices rejected arguments that subjecting doctors to criminal prosecu-
tion would chill the willingness of doctors to give advice to patients on medical marijuana. “Nothing in our opinion should be read to limit or threaten such protected activities,” Bolick wrote.
— Follow Howard Fischer on Twitter @azcapmedia.
By Ken Abramzcyk GETOUT STAFF
Dave Mason reflected on his decision to return to the studio to re-record his 1970 classic album, “Alone Together.”
Mason is on tour and opening for the Doobie Brothers and Journey at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at Ak-Chin Pavilion in Phoenix. His career spans decades beginning with his early years with Traffic, and later as a solo artist where he found success.
“Alone Together” demonstrated and further established Mason’s songwriting ability and guitar skills, namely on the songs “Only You Know and I Know” and “Look at You, Look at Me,” among others.
“The original did really well,” Mason said. “It was a classic album.”
Mason re-recorded the album because his voice “is so much better now. It’s more seasoned and more mature.”
ite and the most popular one.
Mason wrote the songs for “Alone Together” in about two years, he said.
“It just hits me or it doesn’t,” Mason said about songwriting. “I’m not a disciplined writer. When I was younger it was a little different, but even then, I always stuck to writing songs that were timeless in their appeal. I’m just really writing for myself.”
When others sang and recorded his songs, like Delaney & Bonnie’s “Only You Know and I Know” and Cocker’s interpretation of “Feelin’ Alright,” Mason said “the fact that they pulled ’em out and did them is flattering.”
What: Journey, Doobie Brothers and Dave Mason
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, May 14
Where: Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix
Cost: $37 to $152
Mason, who turns 70 on May 10, decided to tour with the Doobie Brothers and Journey because “they asked me to do it” and it was an opportunity play at venues in front of 10,000 to 15,000 fans. He expects to play a 35- to 40-minute set consisting of a couple of songs from “Alone Together,” Traffic and his most popular song, “We Just Disagree.” That classic was written by Jim Krueger and reached No. 12 on the Billboard chart in 1977.
Information: 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com
Mason expects to begin another tour, the “Alone Together Again” tour, in November or December after this one is completed. That will promote the re-issue of “Alone Together,” and Mason will perform all of the songs from it. Bekka Bramlett, the daughter of Delaney and Bonnie Bramlett, will tour with Mason and his band on that tour.
Mason plans to keep touring, as long as he can, he said.
“I’ve been making music all of my life, and I can still do it,” Mason said. “I’m as good as I’m ever going to be at this point. I’ll do it until I can’t anymore, but I love it and I don’t see any reason to stop.”
Mason will play with the same musicians he toured with in his recent Traffic Jam tour: Alvino Bennett on drums, Tony Patler on keyboards and vocals, and guitarist and vocalist Johnne Sambataro, who has played with Mason for 40 years. The Traffic Jam tour lasted about three years and ended recently with Mason performing songs he wrote for that band. That included “Hole in My Shoe” and “Feelin’ Alright,” which was covered by others 50 or 60 times, Mason said. Joe Cocker’s version is Mason’s favor-
Mason has advice for fans attending the show. “Yes, get there early, so they can make sure they see me,” Mason said.
- Contact Ken Abramzcyk at ken@timespublications or call 480-898-5615.
- Check us out and like GetOutAZ on Facebook and follow GetOutAZ on Twitter.
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Notoriously private singer and “American Idol” winner Kris Allen is giving fans a glimpse into his personal life with the appropriately titled new album, “Letting You In.” He calls it his most revealing collection yet. “I try to be personal, but there’s always this part of me that I don’t let through in the songs,” said Allen, who plays the Valley Bar in Phoenix on Friday, May 13.
“For me, I’m a private person— especially in these days of social media. I
let people see glimpses of things. I’m not going out and telling people exactly what’s going on in my head. There should be some privacy to the world. But the way that I let people in is through song. I feel like this record does that.”
Allen’s personal life was thrown in the spotlight, however, when he and his pregnant wife, Katy, were involved in a headon car crash on New Year’s Day 2013 in Arkansas. The accident shattered his wrist and required multiple wrist-fusion surgeries. Now, he has limited range of motion.
“For me, part of being private is not wanting anyone to feel sorry for me,” he said via telephone from Arkansas, where he grew up. “Stuff happens”.
“It’s one of those things I’ll remember for the rest of my life, but there was nothing I could do about it. I’m stubborn, too. I would tell everyone, ‘I’m fine. I’m fine. I’m fine.’ It was on the local news and kind of on some national stuff, too. But I was hopped up on a lot of drugs, so I don’t remember a lot of that time. There’s a year of my life where I don’t remember much.”
His ability to play guitar was iffy for a while, but to compensate, he’s learning a new way to perform.
“I had to learn how to play guitar differently, which is still something I deal with,” he said. “But again, I’m trying to make sure that nobody feels sorry for me. It’s not something I want. After all, it could have been a lot worse.”
Now the family lives in Nashville, a city that Allen calls “inspirational.”
“I was just talking to my wife today,” he said. “Do we miss Arkansas? We miss a lot about Arkansas, like our family. We think Arkansas is our little secret.
“But for what I’m doing and the community that I’m trying to be in and surround myself in is the perfect place. I’ve never experienced anything like that, where everyone’s looking out for each other
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but pushes each other at the same time.”
He appreciates the work ethic there as well. Songwriters and musicians work during the day, then go home and hang out with their families. Sometimes they return to the studio afterward, but he calls it “a really nice environment.”
Another “nice environment” was “American Idol,” to which he returned recently. He judged potential constants during auditions in Little Rock, Arkansas.
“I thought it was going to be weird and I would feel like the college kid who graduated seven years ago and now I don’t know anybody,” he said.
“It was weird because I was judging, but I was comfortable in my surroundings. I was back home. I had a blast. It was good to see some of the producers. It was nice to be behind the veil a little bit during that process. There was no reason for me to be nervous.”
He said he was just there to have fun.
“It’s fun to be a part of the new—and last— season,” he said. “I’ve tried to keep up as much as possible this year. I don’t get the chance to do that, but I made an extra effort to do that this year. I’ve been really impressed.”
- Contact Christina Fuocco-Karainski at 480898-5612 or christina@timespublications.com.
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By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Talking with Dominic Craik of the English alternative rock band Nothing but Thieves is like chatting with a comedian. He’s full of one-liners and dry, sly remarks.
He’s calling from Tulsa, Oklahoma, and is admittedly out of his head about American weather.
“I’ve not been to Phoenix before,” Craik said. “I hear the weather is quite questionable.
“It’s been raining all day here in Tulsa and it’s hot outside. So I’m really, really confused.
“It’s supposed to be cold when it rains.”
The weather is forecast to be cooler than seasonable when Nothing but Thieves plays a free show at Tempe Marketplace on Sunday, May 15. He
acknowledged that Nothing but Thieves is still a baby band in the United States.
“Our job is to play our songs well and not make any mistakes and hope that everyone likes us,” said Craik, whose band recently released its self-titled debut album.
Based in Southend-on-Sea in Essex, England, the musicians of Nothing but Thieves get into the show as a whole. The band also includes vocalist Conor Mason, guitarist Joe Langridge-Brown, drummer James Price and bassist Philip Blake.
top 10 and has been viewed more than 2.5 million times on music and video platform Vevo. The album also features the singles “Itch” and “Hanging.”
Nothing but Thieves began writing the album four years ago and stopped playing shows to focus on it.
“We were just locked away in my garage at home,” he said. “We were just learning how to write songs.
What: Nothing but Thieves
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, April 23
Where: Tempe Markeplace, District Stage, 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe
“Conor might jump into the crowd. It really depends, though. He doesn’t want to pull a muscle,” Craik said.
Cost: Free
Information: nbthieves.com
“It’s just a classic rock show. It’s fastpaced, but it’ll have its moments. It’ll start atmospheric and then slowly pick up toward the end. We want to leave everyone wanting more. Some people will leave before the end and that’s OK. It’s not for everyone.”
The band may be for everyone soon. Nothing but Thieves hit No. 1 on the alternative radio charts with the song “Trip Switch,” the first single off of its debut album. It spent 12 weeks in the
“I didn’t know how to write a good song. After a long grind, we kind of started writing songs that we were happy with. A year later, we recorded the album. We wanted to be proud of our actual body of work.”
That carries over into the live show, but he’s not really one to judge a Nothing but Thieves performance.
“I’d like to watch us live, but I can’t,” he said with a laugh. “It’s fun to play live. But as for a first-hand experience, it would be a lie to tell you the audience says it’s fun.”
- Contact Christina Fuocco-Karainski at 480898-5612 or christina@timespublications.com.
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By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
GETOUT STAFF
Jason Bonham thinks of his late father, Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, in the fondest of ways.
He recalls playing the instrumental song “Moby Dick” with him, and he recalls the strong father-son bond. But, unlike others who have lost their dads, Bonham has the ability to share his memories on the road.
Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience comes to the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix on Friday, May 13.
It was originally intended to be a single tour in 2010, but it has expanded to a more frequent event.
“After the first tour, it took on its own life, really,” Bonham said.
with the songs when he played the O2 Arena in London with Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and John Paul Jones for a tribute show. That’s when he became a fan.
“I took the songs for granted because my dad was a drummer,” he said. “I was able to listen to it again and appreciate the music. It started out with an appreciation for my dad, and then I became appreciative of every one of them and the band itself for what it did for music.”
Bonham is quick to add, however, that he was “always a fan, but not like Jimmy said in 2007, ‘the super fan.’
What: Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience
When: 8 p.m. Friday, May 13
Where: Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix Cost: $39 to $79
Information: 602-267-1600, celebritytheatre.com
The two-hour show is an homage to the elder Bonham and features Led Zeppelin “hits”— Bonham said there were no hits, per se—and occasional deep cuts and B-sides. Bonham also rolls film footage of his father and his family.
“The set list is the hardest thing to decide,” he said. “We actually reach out on social media and ask fans, ‘What would you like to hear on this tour?’
“But then I have to make sure the key songs are represented. As much as Led Zeppelin didn’t have hit singles, there are certain anthems like ‘Whole Lotta Love,’ ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll,’ ‘Stairway to Heaven’ and ‘Kashmir.’ I always find that those are songs that have to be in the show.”
That said, he loves the variety his shows offer, including acoustic numbers or deep tracks. “That, to me, keeps it fresh for us,” said Bonham, 49. “We like to change it up a bit. Some of the songs have never been played live.”
Bonham became intimately acquainted
“When I was 13, The Police were the big thing, and Sting. I dyed my hair blond and the whole thing. It wasn’t until dad was taken away from all of us that I started listening to music in a whole other light.”
Bonham likes to tease interviewers and fans when it comes to Led Zeppelin. When he describes his plans for the next year, he is vague about his projects, which could lead some to think that they’re about Led Zeppelin.
“There has been talk of some other things,” said Bonham, who plays drums for Sammy Hagar’s The Circle as well as Phil Collins.
“Once I know more details, I can let you know. But if everyone’s schedule works out, we could do it. That project shall remain nameless and I’ll tell you this—it’s not Led Zeppelin.”
- Contact Christina Fuocco-Karainski at 480-898-5612 or christina@ timespublications.com.
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Join the beloved characters Ariel, Sebastian, Flounder under the sea as they embark on a life-changing adventure. Come and see for yourself if Ariel can best evil witch Ursula and win over the handsome Prince Eric for a happily ever after.
DETAILS>>Times vary. Through May 15. Nesbitt/Elliot Playhouse, Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St. Tickets: $18. 480644-6500. Mesaartscenter.com
Come and celebrate the musical confluences of Spain’s Flamenco and Mexico’s Mariachi with Flamexico! At Mesa Arts Center. Melodies of Mariachi and Flamenco come to life with guitars and energetic footwork of the dancers. Nine artists will perform in this cultural celebration.
DETAILS>>7:30 p.m., May 13, 14, Piper Repertory Theater, Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St. Tickets: 25. 480-6446500. Mesaartscenter.com
Bring the whole family for a fun day of free activities celebrating International Blowing Bubbles Day. The kids can make their own bubble wand, visit a chemistry station to create bubble solution, create art using different colored bubbles and more.
DETAILS>>11 a.m.-1 p.m., May 14. Tempe Marketplace, Splash Pad near Barnes & Noble, 2000 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe. Free. tempemarketplace.com/bubble.
By Jason P. Skoda AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
The body control it takes to clear 6-foot9 on the high jump or to post a time in a hurdle event that ranks in the top five in Arizona history comes easy.
Jymil Toney and Autumn Smith have practiced the flop of the high jump or timing the hurdles, respectively, thousands of times.
Controlling the emotion was a different story on Saturday night at the Division I state track meet.
Toney won the state title, getting a personal best 6-9, hopped off the mat, let out a yell, took a chest pump from a coach and the Desert Vista senior let a fist pump fly
with another satisfactory scream.
“I’m just so thankful and blessed to win a state title,” Toney said. “The crowd was into it and they got me going. I cleared it and just let it all go.”
Smith was exhausted after winning her second hurdles title of the meet so much so she could barely stand on the podium, and if it weren’t for her Mountain Pointe teammate Dani Burns prodding her Smith may have collapsed right there.
Her eyes would close, her hands would go to her knees, Burns would poke her and Smith, who won the 100 hurdles in 13.99, will rise back up and smile for the cameras.
“I went out and did this my senior year, and
I did all I could,” Smith said while favoring a knee injury after winning the 300 hurdles in 42.48. “I would have liked to have gotten the record. Everything went as planned.”
The same can’t be said for the teams as the Desert Vista boys and Mountain Pointe girls failed to repeat as champions, but had plenty of success stories to finish as runner-ups to Chandler, respectively.
Mountain Pointe girls had double champion in Kayleigh Conlon (shot in 45-03 and discus in 131-10), while Smith was second in the triple jump (38-08.75) and Annika Krietenstein was second in the pole vault (11-09).
Burns was third in the 100, second in the
300 hurdles and third in 100 hurdles, but the Pride came up short when their top triple jumper failed to make the finals and the AIA official and Pride coaches miscommunicated on who the ninth and final long jumper was that led to Chynna Simmons never getting an opportunity in the finals.
The Pride boys had a down year as only Anferni Harris managed a top three finish as he took second in the 200 with a time of a 22.05.
The Desert Vista boys had a heartbreaker in the team race as the Thunder led Chandler 93-92 heading into the final event — the 4x400 relay — and came in with the best seeding time.
The Wolves, however, took the first for 10 points, and Desert Vista finished third in the event for six points as Chandler won it 102-99.
The Thunder had a good meet otherwise as the 4x800 team won with a time of 7:55.33, Torrey Hickel won the shot (57-01) and was second in the discus (178-03), Elijah Mason was No. 1 in the discus (182-01) and third in the shot (54-01.75), DJ Harris was second in the 1600 (4:26.44) and Toney brought home the high jump title.
The Thunder girls had some good efforts as well as Shannon Fritz (5-04) won the high jump, the 4x800 relay finished second, Amanda Davis finished third in the 1600 (4:58.81), Sevanna Hanson (11-09) was third in the pole vault and Jaztyne Griffin was second in the discus (124-0).
The Horizon Honors boys were led by Trevor Tam, who finished fourth in the 1600 run (4:32.06).
The event, however, belonged to Smith and Toney.
“I came through in a clutch situation,” said Toney, who failed to get the school record of 6-10 1/4. “I celebrate this with my teammates, my coaches and family. I couldn’t do any of it without them and their support.”
— Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on twitter @ JasonPSkoda.
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By Jason P. Skoda
AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS NEWS STAFF
As a club basketball coach players come in and filter through the program pretty quickly.
Coaches do their best to put their imprint on each one, but the players are highly developed and move on to the next age group or level of play.
Gino Crump found himself wanting more time.
It led to him reaching out to high school programs in order to leave a more lasting imprint on players, and now he will get a chance to do it with the players of Desert Vista.
“Club players are best or one of the best players on their high school team, but you have a shorter window to interact” Crump said. “With high school players you get them five or six days a week, can work on developing players at every level and have a real impact as a mentor or coach.”
The selection committee has recommended Crump to the Tempe Union High School District, pending approval on May 18.
Crump resigned from Casa Grande last week before officially getting the offer, but it turned out to be the right call after getting the nod over former Highland boys coach Dave Yates, who has coached a girls program in Illinois over the last 10 years.
“This is a great opportunity, and I’m excited. The thing that attracted me the most is Desert Vista’s reputation for excellence in sports, as well as academics,” Crump said. “I coach to win and my goal is to win a championship while helping kids achieve their goals and go to college. I hope to establish long-lasting relationships and be a fixture in the Ahwatukee community.”
Crump led Casa Grande (25-6) to a section championship in his one year there; the team went undefeated at home and made the second round of the Division III playoffs.
The program had only one 20-win season (2006-07) since 2004 before last year and Crump made a difference right away.
“He had a tremendous influence on the players, and did things the right way,” Randy Robbins, Casa Grande athletic director, said earlier in the week. “He lived in the Valley
and it was a tough commute. I understand the decision, and know he will be successful wherever he ends up.”
“I
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gram that comes with a reputation that can be difficult for basketball coaches.
The community and parents have made it a tough place to put in roots for basketball coaches compared to most of the sports programs at Desert Vista which have long-standing coaches.
Twice in the last eight years a coach has left within two years after making the state title game. Additionally, the girls program has had five coaches in five seasons despite winning a state title in 2013-14.
The perception is it has kept potential top notch applicants away.
T.J. Snyder, Desert Vista athletic director, doesn’t look at it that way and feels the right guy is in place now with Crump, who is retired from teaching and spent six years as head coach for the top-ranked Arizona Magic AAU Program
“No, not at all,” Snyder said about negative stigma associated with the program. “It’s an expectation on all of us. As someone who oversees 22 programs it is ‘How can we better evaluate and get to where we want to be with every sport.’ Some coaches rise to those occasions and others don’t. We’ve had some phenomenal people come through here and we had some great applicants.”
It led to Crump in the end.
“His emphasis throughout the interview process was about player development,” Snyder said. “It was something we were looking for and goes along with our expectations. He had some great talking points that he was very confident in.
“There is nothing broke and we feel like we are still in the hunt for a state title, and Gino is the guy to get us there.”
The program has made the state title game twice, but has never won it. The Thunder went 14-13 last year under Tony Darden, who resigned, a year after taking Desert Vista to the Division I state title game the year before.
The roster returns Caleb Simmons, Wesley Harris, Duane Miller and Walter Talley and should be considered a top eight team next year.
“We get after it,” Crump said. “We play up tempo, push the ball and take pride in our defense. If you can’t play defense you are going to have a difficult time getting with me. Defense wins championships, offense sells tickets.
“And we are not in the business of selling tickets.”
— Contact Jason Skoda at 480-898-7915 or jskoda@ahwatukee.com. Follow him on Twitter @ JasonPSkoda.
— Check us out and like the Ahwatukee Foothills News on Facebook and follow @AhwatukeeFN on
• A highly academic Montessori preschool and Kindergarten.
• Offering a full program of enrichment, reading, math, science, social and cultural studies, art, music and Spanish.
• Specializing in ages 2 1/2 through Kindergarten.
• Offering full day and half day programs, year round or school year (10 months).
• Certified highly experienced AMS head teachers in every classroom.
For more information or to inquire about a tour, please contact us at afm@ahwatukeefoothillsmontessori.com or call 480-759-3810. Visit us at ahwatukeefoothillsmontessori.com or facebook.com/AFM.Phoenix
Donald was born May 4th 1963 in Chicago, Illinois and died on May 4th 2016 He grew up in Fallbrook, California He was the husband of Carol Ricciotti and the devoted father or Rhiana, Naomi and Donnie
As a 25 year Ahwatukee resident, Don was very dedicated and made many contributions to youth sports in the community including Mountain Pointe Little League, Pony league, Southeast Valley Babe Ruth In addition he coached at Desert Vista High school, Alta Dena Middle School and several club baseball and softball teams
Donations may be sent to Special Olympics Arizona in memory of Don-
Ahwatukee Foothills Friends and Neighbors (AFFAN) is a women s organization, dedicated to cultivating friendships, and goodwill AFFAN promotes social, charitable and educational events all year long AFFAN holds monthly luncheon meetings with varied speakers We offer over 40 monthly activities including Book Clubs, Canasta Bunco, Euchre and Bridge Other monthly activities are Dining Out, Stitch and Chat Explore Arizona and Garden Club Significant others/ spouses can attend some events For more info contact Teresa Akrish Phone: 480-518-5788, teresaakrish@gmail com Check our website at affanwomensclub com
